YOUNGSTERS from a Lanark Pony Club saddled-up for a behind-the-scenes tour of Hamilton Park Racecourse, this week.

Members of the Lanark and Upperward Pony Club visited the premier Lanarkshire venue, as part of their Pony Club Camp, ahead of the Monday Night Football Racenight for an action-filled activity day, in association with the Racing to School charity.

The children, aged 4 to 16, enjoyed a unique experience and workshop; visiting key areas of the racecourse normally restricted to the public, including the weighing room and stables, before watching the seven races. Learning everything from how Jockeys weigh in and out for races and how the handicapping system works, to the identification checks and veterinary facilities for the horse, the children were given a very special learning experience.

Vivien Currie, Chief Executive at Hamilton Park Racecourse, said: “It’s great for the children to see first-hand the work and planning that goes into every meeting here at Hamilton Park Racecourse. Although they have lots of experience dealing with ponies we hope this will help promote career options within the racing industry, whether it be becoming a jockey, trainer, farrier or vet.

“We are proud to support the initiative and the team enjoyed giving the Pony Club members a real insight into our sport on the evening.”

Lanark residents are also in for a treat as Hamilton Park Racecourse will be continuing to offer them two for one tickets to the Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Racenight on Friday 31 August.

Vivien explains: “This year marks the ten-year anniversary of The Lanark Silver Bell Handicap here at Hamilton Park Racecourse, so we want to encourage the Lanark community to come and celebrate this milestone with us.”

On the course, Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Handicap Stakes has had a prize money increase of £10,000, making it one of the richest races of its kind in the UK at £36,000. The winner of the race will be presented with the Ladbrokes Lanark Silver Bell Trophy which was created in 2012 taking influence from the original Lanark Silver Bell, which will be on display at the racecourse thanks to the Low Parks Museum.

Gates open at 2:30pm on the day, with thoroughbred action getting underway at 4:55pm.

Individual tickets are priced at £19 when booked online during the advanced booking window and are available now at www.hamilton-park.co.uk or by calling 01698 283806. Children under-18 go free, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Lanark residents can book directly with the racecourse using a Lanark address and postcode. Tickets are limited to four per household.

A fantastic line up of events will be taking place at Hamilton Park Racecourse throughout the new 2018 season. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.hamilton-park.co.uk.