Newbury Racecourse is set to welcome racegoers for a special afternoon of flat racing on Friday, May 16th, 2025, with a heartwarming purpose behind the competition. The event, officially named The Starlight Charity Raceday, will support Starlight, a UK-based charity dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families during hospital treatment.
The race day aims to combine the thrill of thoroughbred racing with the power of philanthropy. Through this initiative, Newbury continues its tradition of supporting meaningful causes, using the power of sport to shine a light on children’s healthcare needs. Gates will open at 12:30 pm, with the first race scheduled for 1:55 pm, and the day concluding around 5:20 pm after a total of seven competitive flat races.
The action begins with The Starlight Charity Apprentice Handicap Stakes, a Class 5 race over 1 mile, symbolizing the day’s mission of giving back to children in need. This is followed by The Titan Wealth Handicap Stakes at 2:25 pm, a competitive Class 3 contest run over 1 mile and 2 furlongs, showcasing some of the day’s more seasoned handicappers.
At 3:00 pm, young horses will take the stage in The ARC Proud to Support Starlight Maiden Stakes, a Class 4 sprint over 6 furlongs. Continuing the excitement, The Novice Stakes will follow at 3:33 pm—another Class 4 contest, this time over 7 furlongs.
The fifth race, The Coolmore City of Troy EBF Maiden Stakes, begins at 4:05 pm. This Class 4 event will cover 1 mile and 2 furlongs, allowing promising young runners to shine. At 4:45 pm, the penultimate race—The Greenshields JCB Handicap Stakes—also over 1 mile and 2 furlongs, will set up a competitive closing stretch.
The raceday finale, The Coolmore Auguste Rodin Handicap Stakes, takes place at 5:20 pm. This Class 5 race covers 1 mile and 4 furlongs, offering a stamina test for stayers and a fitting end to a day dedicated to hope, support, and sport.
The Starlight Charity Raceday represents more than just sport; it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and action. Proceeds and awareness raised from the event will go towards helping children across the UK who are undergoing serious medical treatment. Starlight provides distraction therapy, entertainment, and events that uplift young patients and their families in challenging times.
Newbury Racecourse encourages everyone attending to show their support by participating in charity activities on site, donating, or simply spreading awareness through their networks.
Racegoers can look forward to another major highlight on the Newbury calendar the following day—Ladies Day on Saturday, May 17th, featuring eight exciting races and all the glamour that the occasion promises. It’s a weekend of racing not to be missed.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, a charity supporter, or simply looking for a meaningful day out, The Starlight Charity Raceday at Newbury promises entertainment with impact.
