Four years and a month after closing ‘for financial reasons’, Mildenhall returned as Suffolk Downs and became the 19th GBGB racecourse. (There were 22 when it shut).
The first race went to ex-Crayford handler Jim Daly who actually secured a four-timer on the day. Six trainers supplied the 60 runners and all went to plan, much to the delight of the Director Of Racing, James Chalkley.
He said: “We couldn’t be happier. It all went off on schedule, there were winners off the front and coming from behind. Every trap provided a winner and there were a number of close finishes. Moving the boxes back (extending the trip from 375m to 388m) has proved a success.
“We wouldn’t normally expect a crowd for the early meeting but there were a few locals, some of the owners and bookmaker Bunny, so there was nice little atmosphere.
“At this stage we will still to the one Tuesday meeting per week, but will will continue with the Wednesday and Friday trial sessions and then look at the situation again.”
SUFFOLK DOWNS – Racing Manager Martin Race oversees the first race meeting. Photo: © Steve Nash
First bend action from Suffolk Downs’ first meetingPhoto: © Steve Nash
Lone bookmaker Daniel Hunt (bets as Bunny at Towcester) takes a bet at Suffolk Downs’ first meeting Photo: © Steve Nash
SUFFOLK DOWNS -wide angle view as runners make their way back to the kennels Photo: © Steve Nash
Champion trainer Mark Wallis at Suffolk Downs’ first race meeting Photo: © Steve Nash
