19/02/2026
🏇 Organiser Spotlight: Bertie Hayton✨👏🏼
Few people understand Helmsley Races from as many angles as Bertie Hayton. Having trained, ridden and now helping organise the fixture, she brings a unique perspective to Duncombe Park.
“It enables me to help plan the day with the knowledge of being a trainer and jockey, and speaking with other riders to get their insights. We’re constantly facing a battle to keep the sport going, so we have to keep thinking outside the box to attract participation and footfall.
I like to evaluate the runners in races and, if we feel there is poor support, we’ll try to accommodate and make changes to increase numbers — at the end of the day, it’s still like running a business.”
That forward-thinking approach has already seen success.
“This year we’ve continued our hospitality package after the success of its introduction last year. Duncombe Park can be rather chilly in February, so a heated marquee and a base for the day with Sunday lunch and drinks is a rather warming proposition in my eyes!”
✨Proudest Moment✨
“Coming second in the Members’ Race last year on our own horse Deep Charm, carrying a hefty weight, was a proud moment. I was really looking forward to having another crack this year with a few less pounds of lead. Sadly he sustained an injury a few weeks ago and has been retired — he’s now living a very happy life wallowing in the mud and being the general yard pet! He’s part of the family. So this year I’ll be fully on the ground.”
✨Behind the Scenes✨
A lot more goes into Helmsley Races than racegoers might imagine.
“There are plenty of late nights and a lot of admin. We’re constantly trying to meet deadlines and make sure everyone is organised — the phone never stops some days. Sponsorship is also time consuming. We’re hugely grateful to our existing sponsors and always looking at ways to attract new support. As an event, we’re trying to build a professional image for Helmsley Races.”
✨What Makes Duncombe Park Special?✨
“There’s no other course with a backdrop like it — nor the weather that can come with its geographical location! A few years ago we had all seasons in one day — sunshine that brought the crowds in, snow at the start of the first race, a bit of rain and finishing in blazing sunshine. After last week’s unfortunate postponement, I don’t think many believed us when we said it had snowed until we showed the photo!”
✨Looking Ahead to Sunday✨
“As an organiser, I’m looking forward to making up for the loss of so many fixtures by holding the Intermediate and hopefully giving some northern horses the chance to qualify for Cheltenham. It was shaping up to be a very competitive card, so we’re hoping the rescheduling won’t deter too many runners.”
If Bertie had to sum up race day at Duncombe Park in three words:
“Exciting competitive racing.”
But she is quick to add that the day would not be possible without the support behind the scenes.
“The day isn’t possible without the very supportive landowners, the Duncombe family — without them, Helmsley Races would be a non-runner. I’m very lucky we have a knowledgeable, hard-working team sourcing helpers, preparing the track and finding sponsors. And of course, to the owners and trainers who bring their horses — we wish all our participants the very best of luck on Sunday.”
📅 Helmsley Races – Sunday 22nd February 2026
📍 Duncombe Park, Helmsley
✨ Hospitality packages remain available.
