News

EQUINE WELFARE TO THE FORE AT CHESTER RACECOURSE

Published on 17 May 2025

For the first time, Chester Racecourse has introduced misting fans in the post-race pull-up area for horses, marking a significant investment in equine welfare. This initiative aims to help horses cool down effectively after races, especially during the warmer summer months.

The misting fans have been in use over the course of the Boodles May Festival, and have proved to be effective with temperatures expected to reach 20 degrees today. During a race, horses produce heat while they are galloping, which can result in a rise in body temperature at a rate of approximately 1°C per minute. The installation of the misting fans help create a microclimate of colder air around runners, while they are washed down after a race, allowing horses to cool more quickly. 

Patrick Chesters, Racing Director commented, “Like all racecourses we pride ourselves on the top level facilities we have on site for the stars of the sport, the horses. We are mindful that we race during the warmer, summer months and therefore wanted to ensure that we offer suitable facilities for the horses to cool down after each race. 

The Boodles May Festival continues today, with the highlight being the Ladbrokes Chester Cup, a prestigious race that showcases the culmination of the festival’s events. 

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