Yarmouth Prepares for an East Anglian Derby Night

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 18th!

Yarmouth has hosted many memorable events, but few compare to their planned opening in May 1940, which coincided with the German invasion of Holland.

However, the third Wednesday of September 2024 is shaping up to be just as significant.

We've already highlighted some changes to the 78th East Anglian Derby, sponsored by Click Competitions. This year, entry fees have been eliminated, and the field has been reduced from 48 to 36 runners.

(It’s also worth noting the impressive £15K prize for the winner, making this the 11th most lucrative final on the calendar, behind the English Derby and nine PGR finals.)

Now, it can be revealed that the supporting card on Derby night will be the most rewarding ever held at the track.

In addition to the main sponsor, Click Competitions, Yarmouth has secured an impressive lineup of final night sponsors, including Sonata Security, the MWD Partnership, C&C Sheds, the connections of last year’s runner-up Coolavanny Shado, and local bookmakers.

As a result, nearly every final will offer four-figure prize money—only the £750 maiden race falls short of this. The traditional Derby Purse and Sprint Finals are set to offer £2,000 and £1,500, respectively.

Promoter Simon Franklin commented that no runner on the night will compete for less than £100. He acknowledged that hosting the Derby is a significant expense for the stadium, but thanks to the sponsors, they’ve been able to increase the prize money for the final night.

He also mentioned that, despite Yarmouth’s remote location for many kennels, if these incentives don't attract a strong entry, he would be at a loss for what more to do.