Wincanton Racecourse will be welcoming former England and Somerset cricketer Marcus Trescothick to the opening meeting of its new season on Thursday, October 17.

After 40,000 runs and 96 centuries across formats, Trescothick, aged 43, retired from cricket in September, and as part of his retirement celebrations, will enjoy a day at the races.

General manager Huw Williams said:

“Marcus has undoubtedly had a fantastic career, and during that time, has become a household name. In Somerset he’s regarded as a hero and we’re delighted to welcome him here as our guest on October 17 as part of his retirement celebrations, and our own celebrations for the start of the new season.”

Further improvements have been made during the summer break to enhance the raceday experience, including refurbishing the Badger Bar and improving Furlongs Coffee Shop. 

Huw explained:

“We’ve had a five month break during which time we’ve renovated several areas. Improvements are on going, year on year, when we look at ways we can improve what we offer here to give everyone a thoroughly enjoyable day at the races.

“The ground staff have also been hard at work on the course, to ensure the ground is in the best possible condition ahead of the new season, and several chase fences have been rebuilt too. The track is looking fantastic, and with lots  of rain, we’re expecting near perfect going, which should mean plenty of runners.”

Last year, Wincanton Racecourse played a significant part in the preparation of several horses who became leading contenders for The Festival™ presented by Magners at Cheltenham Racecourse, and racegoers will be marking their cards for stars of the bigger stage. 

Eleven times champion Paul Nicholls is a huge supporter of his local track and will run many horses, including those he hopes will be destined big race success.

He said:

“I love having winners at Wincanton. It’s my local track, and we always have a lot of friends and supporters there, and this year we hope to have plenty of runners too.”

Gates open at noon with the first of seven races off at 2.10pm, featuring the Bruton Handicap Steeple Chase, which is a Challenger Middle Distance Chase Series Qualifier.