Sizing Europe starts campaign at Gowran The reigning Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Sizing Europe gets his 2011/12 campaign underway at Gowran Park tomorrow when facing four rivals in the Grade 2 PricewaterhouseCoopers Champion Chase. The going is currently described as good to firm (good in places) on the chase course, and good on the hurdle track. However an unsettled forecast means that could change as the two-day meeting commences at 2.35pm this afternoon. Racecourse Manager Margaret Fogarty explains. “Forecasts we've got have proved unreliable but it has just started raining now (11.30am), and we are promised between 15mm and 20mm before racing tomorrow. The expectation was that the rain would not start until this afternoon but it has started a bit earlier than anticipated. “We've been watering continuously this week, and are delighted to get Sizing Europe along with Rubi Light and Finger Onthe Pulse for the PricewaterhouseCoopers Champion Chase tomorrow. Its a race that traditionally attracts a small field but Sizing Europe is a great attraction to have. “Tomorrow is our Racing Club lunch day and we expect to have about 300 members here for their free day. Our free shuttle bus service from Kilkenny has been working particularly well over the last few months. We work closely with alot of the hotels in Kilkenny, and alot of people use the service as part of a package deal. It is very popular with hen and stag parties. “Our punters package for €19 includes admission, racecard, the shuttlebus from Kilkenny, a €5 drink voucher and a €2 bet with the Tote. Our Fabulous Fillies Package includes admission, access to what we call the “VIP lounge” (owners/trainers lounge), a glass of prosecco and canapes on arrival all for €29. “Admission is just €10 today including a racecard and €15 tomorrow. There are concessions for OAP's and students, and children under 18 are free. There are also vouchers available for free entry today as part of the HRI student promotion, and to readers of the Irish Field. We also have a loyalty card at Gowran, which gives free admission following four visits to the track. “This meeting would be our next biggest after the Thyestes Chase and our Red Mills day. We were unlucky with the weather last year, so we're looking forward to a significant increase this year. The rain tomorrow is due relatively early and, with the combination of good racing, we are very hopeful,” added Ms Fogarty. Alan Magee
