Fontwell Races Thursday: Small Field Sizes May Affect Betting

This Thursday's Fontwell races might have fewer horses than usual, similar to a past event where a 7-race card had only 36 runners.
By Newsroom | Sports, Horse Racing |

Fontwell racecourse is slated to host a six-race card this Thursday, offering a domestic jump racing spectacle. The event, broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing from 1:45 PM, is set to feature several notable contenders.

The feature race, the We Love You Goodwin Handicap Hurdle, will see Paso Doble, returning to hurdling, face off against George's Lad. This contest highlights a significant portion of the day's racing action, drawing attention to established and returning horses.

Fontwell hosts six-race Thursday card - 1

Elsewhere on the card, horses like Too Farhh Gone and Al Durry are positioned in a maiden fillies' stakes at Southwell, both seeking their first success. Too Farhh Gone, having shown promise on debut, is anticipated to contend, while Al Durry looks to build on a solid third-place finish. The Secret Pearl is also set to compete, aiming for a consecutive victory in the Bet Clever BetGoodwin Mares' Novices' Hurdle, though faces stiff competition from less experienced but potentially promising rivals.

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Historical Context and Operational Details

This fixture comes at a time when 'alarmingly small field sizes' have become a persistent issue in British racing, particularly in jump events. A report from May 2022 indicated that a seven-race card at Fontwell attracted only 36 runners, leading to customer compensation. At that time, over a quarter of all jump races in Britain had fewer than six runners, a figure noted as the highest on record.

Fontwell Park, situated in West Sussex, is known for its distinctive jumps racing circuit and hosts over 20 meetings annually. Beyond racing, the venue also serves as a space for various events, including weddings, and offers hospitality options for racegoers. The course previously hosted action alongside ParisLongchamp on May 14, 2025, featuring a six-race card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What races are happening at Fontwell this Thursday?
Fontwell will host a six-race card on Thursday, broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing from 1:45 PM. The main race is the We Love You Goodwin Handicap Hurdle featuring Paso Doble and George's Lad.
Q: Why are there concerns about the Fontwell races this Thursday?
There are worries about 'alarmingly small field sizes' at British jump racing events, including Fontwell. This issue has led to customer compensation in the past when race cards had very few runners.
Q: What does 'small field sizes' mean for racegoers at Fontwell?
Small field sizes mean fewer horses in each race, which can affect betting options and the overall excitement of the event. In the past, low runner numbers have resulted in compensation for customers.
Q: Has Fontwell had issues with small field sizes before?
Yes, a report from May 2022 showed that a seven-race card at Fontwell had only 36 runners. This was part of a wider trend where over a quarter of jump races in Britain had fewer than six runners.