The officials at Ffos Las are delighted with the turn out for the opening gambit on the course, which is of course scheduled for next Thursday. Altogether, about 250 horses have registered for the race at the Welsh venue. This will be the first new turf racecourse to open in Britain for more than 80 years.

The result is a sell-out of tickets to a crowd of 10,000 people. I’ve heard rumours that in the first race, the horse to watch could be one that is owned by the person who actually developed the racecourse. Dai Walters’ Ffos Las Diamond is running in the National Hunt Novices Hurdle under the rein of the great Tony McCoy.

Walters states that he is thrilled and excited with all that has happened, and just can’t wait for the race to start next Thursday. Moreover, judging with the number of entries from Irish stables to the race, the ferries plying between Ireland and West Wales will be busy providing horse transportation for a few days.

Tim Long, the clerk of the course, is thrilled with the entries for the race. Especially with trainers from Wales, Ireland and England providing so much support. As all the tickets have been sold out for the race, authorities have strictly mentioned that no one should try coming to the venue without any ticket as there will be no cash admission on the night of the race.

It will indeed be a marquee occasion for Welsh racing.