Hexham’s December 10 raceday is set to unfold with the familiar charm and atmosphere that define winter racing in the North, offering a meeting built on tradition, emotion and community spirit. As gates are set to open at 11am, families in bright Christmas jumpers will spill toward the rails, trainers will offer those quiet reassuring pats near the saddling boxes, and early chatter will rise into the crisp air as six races line up between 12:55pm and 3:25pm. Hexham’s rugged winter charm always draws emotion to the surface, and with a day shaped around celebration, awareness and shared spirit, tomorrow promises a meeting where every run feels a little more heartfelt.
The centrepiece of the afternoon arrives at 2:55pm, when the Ursa Major Event Of Sivola Memorial Handicap Chase (Go North Monet’s Garden Series Qualifier) brings eight runners across 2m4f15y and 15 fences. The winner’s purse of £6,680 adds competitive edge, while the race’s heart lies in its purpose — a tribute that blends memory and ambition. Contenders include WALKING ON A DREAM, TRUCKERS CRUISING, ORKNEY BLUE, HALPHA SOLEIL, HEEZTHEBOY, ZUMBI, THE JEWELLER’S PET and KING OF CONG. After the opener, the winner’s enclosure will burst with colour as supporters gather in their loudest festive jumpers, with hospitality prizes and afternoon tea experiences lifting the mood.
With the local NHS Trust on course to promote bowel cancer screening, quiet and meaningful conversations will unfold near the saddling boxes, adding depth to the afternoon and reminding visitors how sport and community often meet. The Injured Jockeys Fund will offer calendars, cards and seasonal gifts at their stall, creating a reflective corner of gratitude for the riders who make these moments possible. Under-18s will be welcomed free, encouraging families, grandparents, young fans and first-time visitors to enjoy a day that blends heritage with accessibility. Three GBB races — including the feature chase — will ensure strong prize pots and recognition for connections closing out 2025 with purpose.
The supporting programme includes the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (GBB) at 12:55pm over 2m48y with six runners; the Maiden Hurdle (GBB) at 1:25pm over 2m4f28y with eight runners; a Class 4 Handicap Hurdle at 1:55pm over 2m4f28y with five runners; a Class 5 Handicap Hurdle at 2:25pm over 2m7f63y with twelve hurdles; and the closing Class 5 Handicap Chase at 3:25pm over 1m7f133y and twelve fences. By the last fence at 3:25pm, Hexham’s Christmas raceday will have delivered its blend of emotion, reflection and sport, celebrating community and courage and showcasing the way winter racing draws people together as dusk settles over the hills. For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to racebuzz.