Royal Ascot is all set to host the Racing To Zero Summer Mile Weekend, a thrilling two-day racing event scheduled from July 11th to July 12th, 2025. This unique weekend combines the excitement of elite horse racing with an environmentally conscious theme, celebrating speed, skill, and sustainability. The racecourse will transform into an educational hub with interactive displays, engaging activities, and exhibitions focused on sustainability. These initiatives are part of the wider Racing to Zero green strategy, which aims to reduce carbon emissions on race days and promote eco-friendly practices among spectators and the local community.
The racing action on Friday, July 11th, will begin at 2:00 PM with The Tide Apprentice Handicap Stakes. This is a Class 4 straight-mile handicap open to horses aged four and above. Ten runners will line up for a chance to claim victory and a share of the £15,650 prize fund. The second race of the day, The JLL Children’s Charities Nursery Handicap Stakes, will take place at 2:35 PM. This is a Class 3 sprint over six furlongs exclusively for two-year-olds, offering a total prize purse of £20,000.
Following that at 3:10 PM is The Newmark Handicap Stakes, another Class 3 race designed for three-year-old contenders. The race will be run over the traditional round (old) mile and also offers a total prize of £20,000. The highlight of the day arrives at 3:45 PM with The Investec Out Of The Ordinary EBF Fillies’ Handicap Stakes. This feature race is a Class 3 contest run over one mile and about four furlongs, open to fillies aged three and above, with a significant prize fund of £50,000.
At 4:20 PM, The Knight Frank Residential Investment Handicap Stakes will take place. This Class 4 race is open to horses aged three and above, covering a distance of one mile and about two furlongs, with prize money of £15,650. The day concludes with The Long Harbour Derek Lucie-Smith Handicap Stakes at 4:55 PM. This final race is a Class 3 sprint over six furlongs for three-year-olds and older, featuring thirteen runners and a total purse of £20,000.
Beyond the racing action, the Summer Mile Weekend promises a festive and educational experience for all. Racegoers will not only witness high-quality horse racing but will also be introduced to meaningful conversations around sustainability. The gates will open at 11:00 AM, allowing guests ample time to explore the exhibits and soak in the atmosphere before racing begins. Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy the event in a relaxed picnic setup on the grassy areas of the racecourse. With entertainment, activities, and the excitement of summer racing, this event is an ideal blend of environmental education and sporting excellence.
