Intense rivalries are set to be rekindled later this month as one of Cumbria’s most anticipated summer events returns.
Cartmel Racecourse launches its 2025 season with a bank holiday weekend of racing, entertainment, and family fun – and the start of a season-long duel likely to go the full distance as local Cartmel trainer and six-time course champion James Moffatt locks horns at the iconic course once again with Yorkshire’s 2024 Cartmel champion Ben Haslam.
Haslam’s 2024 Trainers’ Challenge victory, awarded to the most successful trainer over the season at the course. was won by the narrowest of margins, with the Yorkshire-based horse racing dynasty level on points with James Moffatt’s stable after the very last race of the season.
Haslam took the crown from the 2023 reigning champion on a count back of winners and Cumbria’s Moffatt had to settle for second place.
He will be keen to win it back this year as a victory for the Cartmel trainer would be his seventh Trainers Challenge victory – a course record.
Crowd favourite Sean Quinlan also returns to defend his Champion Jockey title after a convincing 2024 win in partnership with wife and trainer, Cumbrian-based Lizzie.
Each year, thousands of visitors — from seasoned racegoers to first-time families — flock to Cartmel for an experience that blends thrilling summer jump racing with a vibrant festival atmosphere.
The 2025 season begins on Saturday, May 24, with further race days on Whit Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, and an evening meeting on Wednesday, May 28.
Geraldine McKay, director of racing at Cartmel, said: “These May race days are always a highlight of the half-term break.
“The whole team has worked incredibly hard over the winter and the track is looking fantastic.
“We’re all so excited to welcome everyone back. At Cartmel, it’s not just about the racing — it’s about the entire experience, where friends and families come together and enjoy something truly special.”
This year also marks the launch of a new on-site venue from June — The Glasshouse — on the track’s paddock side.
