Furry competitors to face off in Sue Ryder Mascot Gold Cup

The countdown is on for one of the quirkiest events in the racing calendar – the Sue Ryder Mascot Gold Cup.

On April 27, Wetherby Racecourse will once again become the stage for this spectacle of furry competitors battling it out for glory.

Participants can either bring their own mascot or ‘adopt’ one for the event, raising sponsorship to support Sue Ryder’s charitable work.

The day kicks off with the Mascot Parade, where awards are given for “Best Turned Out” and “Most Entertaining” mascot in a lively dance-off.

Raceday attendees will also get the chance to study the lineup and place bets on their favourite mascots before the big race – a one-furlong dash over six fences, right in front of the grandstand.

With eight weeks to go, more than 30 mascots are already signed up for the event.

Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, said: “The Sue Ryder Mascot Gold Cup has become a highlight of the Wetherby Races family day.

“It provides fantastic entertainment and an affordable day out for our supporters, all while raising essential funds for important causes.”

Mr Wood also expressed gratitude to Modality Partnership, which sponsors the Mascot Gold Cup.

For more details and to sign up, please visit www.sueryder.org/mascotgoldcup