Step into the vibrant energy of Halloween Family Day at AINTREE RACECOURSE in the UK, where autumn thrills meet jump-racing drama. The card begins at 12:40pm and closes at 4:05pm on Sunday, 26th October, with seven jumps races that bring together seasoned handicappers and emerging contenders on Aintree’s classic turf. Amid face-painting, spooky fun and family entertainment, the racing delivers serious action—from Class 3 hurdle right up to the open-flat mares’ contest—making for a memorable day both on and off the track.
Race 1: Butterworth Spengler Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (Challenger Stayers’ Hurdle Series Qual) (12:40pm, 3m149y)
We open the card with a competitive Class 3 handicap hurdle, where seasoned jumpers meet rising contenders eager to prove a point. DOC MCCOY, HEATHER HONEY and POUNDING POET may look to settle early and find a smooth rhythm over the flights, while MY BOBBY DAZZLER, PYRAMID PLACE and THE JAM MAN could stay tucked in behind before launching a late run if the pace turns demanding. It’s the perfect stage-setter to gauge how the track is riding. Winner’s gain: £10,034
Race 2: Stream Champions:Full Gallop On ITVX Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race) (1:15pm, 1m7f176y)
The action moves up a notch with this GBB-eligible Class 3 handicap chase, a test where fences and stamina meet nerve and precision. BEAU QUALI, TOM DONIPHON and GENTLEMAN BILL might lean on valuable chase experience to maintain rhythm through the circuit, while JORDANS CROSS, SPADESTEP and ALL THE GLORY could pose a fresh challenge if recent schooling has added polish. Expect tactics and clean jumping to play a decisive role in this one. Winner’s gain: £11,882
Race 3: William Hill Vieux Lion Rouge Veterans’ Handicap Chase (Leg 7 of Stayers’ Veterans’ Chase Series) (1:50pm, 3m210y)
Now stepping into Class 2 company, the pressure sharpens as proven chasers line up for a contest that demands both grit and composure. TORN AND FRAYED, SMARTY WILD and IF NOT FOR DYLAN may look to carry strong form into this tougher grade, while STRAW FAN JACK, LE MILOS and ASHTOWN LAD might emerge as the improver who thrives under pressure. This race could well separate genuine class from mere promise. Winner’s gain: £18,211
Race 4: William Hill Best Odds Guaranteed Maiden Hurdle (GBB Race) (2:20pm, 2m4f)
Fresh talent takes the stage in this GBB-supported maiden hurdle, a chance for novices to announce their arrival. JIMMY HURDSTROM, BIG TICKET and TIDDESLEY WOOD may translate strong schooling into a confident display, while DANGER NAP, IN THE AGE and ARCTIC CONDITIONS could show their hand if they settle into stride early. It’s a race full of learning curves and early hints of future stars. Winner’s gain: £8,845
Race 5: William Hill Old Roan Limited Handicap Chase (Grade 2) (GBB Race) (2:55pm, 2m3f200y)
The day’s feature contest arrives with this Class 1 GBB handicap chase, the kind that attracts form horses and ambitious stables alike. IMPERIAL SAINT, MASTER CHEWY and BOOMBAWN carry the weight of expectation after consistent efforts, while AHOY SENOR, MINELLA DRAMA and KNOCKANORE could be the quiet improver ready to seize their moment. The run-in should be fierce, with class and courage deciding the outcome. Winner’s gain: £45,560
Race 6: William Hill Each Way Extra Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (3:30pm, 2m4f)
Returning to the hurdles in Class 2 company, this race calls for a blend of steadiness, stamina, and timing. SERIOUS CHALLENGE, ACE OF SPADES and CRACKING RHAPSODY might look to control tempo from an early position, and BOLD LIGHT, SERIOUS OPERATOR and THE GRAY GHOST could bide their time before mounting a challenge late. Every stride will count in this well-matched field. Winner’s gain: £18,211
Race 7: Racing TV Mares’ Open National Hunt Flat Race (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB Race) (4:05pm, 2m209y)
We close with a GBB flat race for mares, a refreshing change of pace that still carries the spirit of the jump season. DOTTIES PROMISE, EDITH PELHAM and I’LLHAVEABITOFTHAT may draw on course experience and conditioning to stay prominent, while LADY DAPPLE ROSE, LADY MOTIVATOR and LYRICAL CHOICE might surprise with a late burst if the gallop is honest. A fitting finale to an afternoon rich with variety, skill, and seasonal promise. Winner’s gain: £9,531
Read full coverage and race previews on RaceBuzz.
