The latest column from Helen Willis, Carlisle Racecourse's general manager.

We’ve had a wonderful summer here at Carlisle Racecourse and as the colder weather really starts to set in, we’ve turned our attention to the jump season.

My first three months as the General Manager have been fantastic, and with a glorious day to finish the flat season in September and two successful jumps meetings already under our belts, we’re now all systems go for the Colin Parker Memorial Day, which takes place this Sunday, October 30.

This is our feature jumps meeting at Carlisle and includes the Listed Colin Parker Memorial Chase over two-and-a-half miles – a race which has previously been won by Fiddlerontheroof, Imperial Aura and Lostintranslation.

Back in 2014 the race was won by Many Clouds, who just a few months later went on the win the Grand National at Aintree.

The listed contest has gone from strength to strength over the past 16 years, becoming a recognised early season destination for some of the best chasers around.

This year some similarly exciting names are expected to line up at the start, with the likes of Minella Drama and Bear Ghylls entered for the race.

We’re also expecting to welcome Corach Rambler back onto a racetrack for the first time since winning the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival back in March.

The Colin Parker Memorial Chase is just one of seven action-packed thrillers we’ll be hosting on the day, and I think it’s safe to say the whole team and I are really excited for another day of premier racing.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there either, with a Tipster Talk from Tony Dobbin, winner of over 100 races at Carlisle, taking place in the parade ring at 11.45am, followed by the annual hound race at 12.15pm.

On the day, a bucket collection will also be taking place for the Great North Air Ambulance - carried out by the hound trailing organisers - and we know any donations will be really appreciated. Collections will be taking place at the main entrance before and after gates open.

The first horse race is scheduled to take place at 12.50pm, with the final race at 4.13pm. Tickets are priced at £16 and can be bought online at www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/carlisle with customers advised to book in advance for the best price.

Looking ahead to the remainder of our 2022 jumps season we are racing again on Monday November, 7, Sunday November 27, and Sunday, December 11 which is our festive raceday where we will be holding a competition for the best Christmas Jumper!

General admission tickets are £16 in advance or why not upgrade your experience and reserve a table for the day in our Swifts Restaurant, packages start at £84 per person.

We’re really exciting for all of the fantastic racing yet to take place here at Carlisle Racecourse this year, and hope to see you trackside very soon.