Community heroes set for the spotlight as Exeter Racecourse launches new raceday

Exeter Racecourse has announced a new Community Raceday next month and is inviting people across Devon to nominate local residents who have made a difference in their communities.

The event will take place on Friday 20 February, during the school half-term, and will coincide with Devon Day at the racecourse. 

Organisers say the aim is to recognise everyday contributions made by volunteers, carers, coaches, fundraisers and others whose work often goes unnoticed.

Members of the public are being asked to submit nominations explaining why a friend, colleague or neighbour deserves recognition. 

Every nominee will receive a free ticket to the racecourse on the day, while one overall winner will be selected to receive a Family Raceday experience for 12 people later in the spring. 

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That prize includes food and drink and will be presented at the racecourse in April 2026, with the winner also recognised during Community Raceday itself.

Nominations will be judged by Exeter Racecourse general manager Jack Parkinson, racecourse chairman Duncan Sykes, and Blaithin Murphy, general manager at Wincanton Racecourse. 

Entries must be submitted by Monday 9 February 2026.

Community Raceday will also feature one of the highlights of Exeter’s racing calendar, the Devon National, a long-distance steeplechase that regularly attracts horses and jockeys familiar to racegoers in the South West. 

Run over three miles and six furlongs and featuring 21 fences, the race is widely regarded as one of the toughest tests in the region and is often compared to a local version of the Grand National.

Alongside the racing, the course will host activities aimed at families and first-time visitors. The Martin Pipe Stand will be transformed into an indoor games area for children, and under-18s will be able to attend for free when accompanied. 

Organisers say the wider programme is intended to make the day accessible to non-racing audiences as well as regular racegoers.

Exeter Racecourse has encouraged community groups and residents across Devon to take part by submitting nominations and attending the event, describing it as an opportunity to combine sport with local recognition.

On the day, gates will open at 12.45pm, with the first race scheduled for 2.15pm and the final race at 5.20pm. 

A shuttle bus will operate from Exeter St Davids, departing at 12.45pm and returning from the racecourse at 5.50pm.