Fontwell Park Racecourse Guide
About Fontwell Park Racecourse
Fontwell Park Racecourse is a unique National Hunt venue located near Arundel in West Sussex, distinguished by having one of only two figure-of-eight steeplechase courses in Britain. The hurdle course is a conventional left-handed oval of approximately one mile, but the chase course follows a figure-of-eight pattern that creates a demanding and unusual test of jumping and racemanship.
The figure-of-eight chase course is Fontwell's most distinctive feature. Horses cross the track at a central point, which means they jump fences in both directions during a single race. This demands exceptional versatility from horse and jockey, as they must adjust their approach and balance for fences coming from different angles. The configuration adds an element of unpredictability that makes Fontwell chase racing particularly exciting for spectators and challenging for punters.
Fontwell hosts approximately eighteen meetings during the jumps season from September through to May, offering a varied programme of hurdle races and steeplechases. The racing quality is predominantly at the lower end of the grading scale, but the competitive fields and the unique track characteristics produce fascinating racing and lively betting markets.
The Track & Course Layout
The going at Fontwell tends to ride on the soft side during the winter months, as the course is situated on clay soil that retains moisture. Heavy ground is not uncommon during the midwinter period, and the stamina test increases significantly when conditions deteriorate. Conversely, good ground during autumn and spring meetings produces faster racing that suits speedier types.
For racecard analysis at Fontwell, the chase course demands particular attention. Horses that have previously handled the figure-of-eight configuration hold an advantage, and first-time visitors to the course can be caught out by the unusual demands. Accurate jumping is essential because the crossing point adds complexity to the racing line.
The hurdle course, being a conventional oval, is more straightforward and suits handy, well-balanced horses. The tight bends favour those that race prominently, and the short straight means that late closers can find it difficult to make up ground.
Key Races & The Racing Programme
The feature races at Fontwell include the National Spirit Hurdle, a Grade 2 contest that attracts quality hurdlers and serves as a useful guide to the spring festival season. Several useful novice hurdle and chase events add quality to the racing programme.
Facilities at Fontwell are pleasant and well-maintained, with good viewing from the grandstand and accessible paddock areas. The course is located just off the A27, approximately four miles from Arundel, and is easily accessible from the South Coast.
Fontwell occupies a unique position in the National Hunt landscape thanks to its figure-of-eight chase course. For punters who understand the demands of the track, the racecards offer consistent opportunities to find value, particularly when horses with proven course experience are running against course debutants.