Set in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, Down Royal Racecourse hosts both jurisdictions - Flat and National Hunt, with a total of 12 fixtures throughout the year. Used as the starting point of the season for many high-quality jumps horses and often for British contenders, the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Champion Chase is the centrepiece of the season. Champion stayers, including Don Cossack, Beef or Salmon and Kauto Star are among its roll of honour.
Down Royal racecourse is an almost square, right-handed galloping track of nearly 2 miles in circumference with a downhill run to the straight and a slight uphill finish to the post. There is a chute for the 5 furlong start. The Ulster Derby in June is the most valuable Flat race on its calendar.
There are 10 fences and 8 hurdles on the circuit and the run-in is short, the course and fences are fair and it is an enjoyable experience for both horse and jockey.
Down Royal is rich in regal history and tradition. It was King James II who began proceedings in 1685, on land donated by Arthur Hill, 1st Marquess of Downshire, when he founded the Down Royal Corporation of Horse Breeders. This organisation still exists to this day and oversees the operation of the racecourse.
In 1750 the King?s Plate, worth 100 pounds was introduced by King George II and is now run as the Listed Her Majesty?s Plate. In 1993, major upgrades were made to the grandstand, which included modernisation of the current facilities and 14 new VIP boxes, transforming the course into an establishment to be proud of.
