The spring meeting at Epsom Downs Racecourse is set to launch the 2025 flat racing season with a thrilling day of action on April 22. This much-anticipated event marks the first fixture of the year at the historic venue. Gates will open at 12:00 PM, with the first race starting at 1:35 PM and the last race scheduled for 5:00 PM. Managed by The Jockey Club, Epsom Downs has long been a cornerstone of British horse racing, offering not only world-class races but also a festive, family-friendly atmosphere for attendees.
Epsom Downs Racecourse is situated near Epsom in Surrey, England, and boasts a rich history dating back to its first recorded race in 1661. The venue is internationally recognized as the home of the Derby Festival, but the spring meeting also holds significant importance as it sets the tone for the upcoming racing calendar. This year’s card features seven races, including the prestigious Blue Riband Trial Stakes, a key preparatory race for The Derby.
The racing action begins with a Class 3 Handicap Stakes over five furlongs at 1:35 PM. At 2:10 PM, the Blue Riband Trial Stakes will be contested over one mile and two furlongs, drawing attention from fans and punters keen to spot future stars of the turf. This will be followed by a Class 2 Handicap Stakes, also run over one mile and two furlongs, at 2:45 PM. The fourth race of the day, another Class 3 Handicap Stakes over one mile and four furlongs, will go off at 3:20 PM. At 3:55 PM, the Novice Stakes (Class 4) will feature a one-mile test, followed by two more Class 4 Handicap races at 4:25 PM and 5:00 PM, both also run over a mile.
With a strong lineup and ideal track conditions, the meeting is expected to deliver exciting finishes and competitive racing throughout the day. The event is designed for fans of all ages, with easy access to food and drink options, spacious viewing areas, and a relaxed dress code that encourages comfort. Many families attend this spring meet as a fun day out, while enthusiasts and first-timers alike get the chance to witness top jockeys and trainers in action.
Epsom’s picturesque location, the caliber of races on offer, and the historic importance of the venue make this a must-attend event for racing fans. As the 2025 flat season gets underway, all eyes will be on the spring meeting to deliver a day full of speed, strategy, and spectacle.
