Friday, 17th October, marks the Flat Finale at the HAYDOCK PARK RACECOURSE in Merseyside, bringing the curtain down on another exhilarating flat racing season in Britain with a seven-race card from 1:55pm to 5:25pm. The afternoon promises a vibrant mix of pace and power — from quickfire sprints to middle-distance duels — as horses and riders aim to close their campaigns on a high note. With autumn’s crisp air settling over the turf, the scene is set for a perfect blend of sporting intensity and seasonal charm, making it a day that captures the true spirit of British racing.
Race 1: Handicap (GBBPlus Race) (1:55pm, 1m6f)
The day kicks off with a GBB Plus handicap, where experience meets ambition. COEDANA, IMPERIAL SOVEREIGN and IN THE BREEZE may look to dictate terms from the front, using stamina to full effect, while DINO BELLAGIO, HIGH POINT and GNOMON could bide time before launching a late, calculated charge. It’s a competitive opener that should set the rhythm for a spirited afternoon ahead. Winner’s gain: £7,851
Race 2: Shape Engineering EBF Novice Stakes (GBB Race) (2:30pm, 7f212y)
A lively class 4 GBB event follows, bringing together developing contenders eager to make their mark before the season ends. BRIGHTON VIEW, DOUBLE COMBO and HOUNDSWOOD WILLOW might find the conditions ideal for a bold front-running display, but PALAZZO DUCALE, HOME SECRETARY and BIG EAGLE looms as a strong challenger if the race turns tactical. Expect sharp moves and a fast finish as the tempo builds down the stretch. Winner’s gain: £4,860
Race 3: Handicap (3:05pm, 7f212y)
This class 3 handicap introduces a sharper rise in quality, with a field stacked with proven performers. ETERNAL FORCE, SILVER SWORD and WARRIOR MODE could press the pace early, testing the stamina of rivals, while BUBBLES WONKY, BRAVE EMPEROR and PRESENT TIMES might stalk just behind, ready to strike when gaps appear. It’s one of the key contests of the day, sure to draw the crowd’s attention. Winner’s gain: £8,100
Race 4: Nursery Handicap (3:40pm, 6f212y)
A class 5 handicap offers mid-card intrigue, often producing hard-fought finishes. COME ON OVER, EXHIBITIONING and TERRITORIAL STAR may look to bounce back from previous near misses, while AR DIDDY DUM DUM, IF I COULD DREAM and KING OF THUNDER could relish the softer going if the weather turns. The balance between speed and patience will likely decide the outcome here. Winner’s gain: £4,449
Race 5: EBF Maiden Fillies’ Stakes (GBB Race) (4:15pm, 6f)
The spotlight shifts to the younger brigade in this fillies’ maiden GBB Race, where emerging talent takes centre stage. SPLISH SPLASH, WHISKEY KISSES and HEART BEATS TRUE may show early promise, while SHE’S ON THE BALL, ROYAL BARONESS and HAVANA FLOWER could improve dramatically on debut or recent runs. Every stride here will hint at the potential stars of next season. Winner’s gain: £4,590
Race 6: Weatherbys Stallion Book Handicap (4:50pm, 5f)
Back to high-class company, this class 3 handicap is set to test both precision and stamina. KINSWOMAN, NAANA’S SPARKLE and PIANOFORTE might aim to control the tempo throughout, but JER BATT, DURAN, TRILBY and BUCCABAY could wait patiently before making a decisive push in the closing stages. Expect a gripping finish where determination will count for everything. Winner’s gain: £8,100
Race 7: Handicap (5:25pm, 5f)
The final race of the day — and of Haydock’s flat season — closes the card with a well-matched class 5 handicap. BRAZILIAN BELLE, SECRET MISTRAL and OUR ABSENT FRIENDS may try to end the campaign on a high note with an early burst, while SON OF ASTAR, ACT OF VIOLENCE and ROYAL DUKE could have one last surprise in store for the closing strides. A fitting finale to an afternoon of strong performances and tight finishes. Winner’s gain: £4,449
As the sun sets over Haydock Park, the Flat Finale brings another flat racing chapter to a close with excitement, grace, and a touch of nostalgia. With every race offering a story of grit and glory, the season ends on a high paving the way for the return of jump racing in the coming weeks.
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