The Ebor Festival, held at the historic York Racecourse, is one of the highlights of the British horse racing calendar.

The 2024 edition promises to be a spectacular event, drawing enthusiasts and punters from around the world. Scheduled to take place from August 21 to 24, the festival features some of the most prestigious races in the sport, including the iconic Ebor Handicap.

The Ebor Festival spans four days, each packed with top-tier racing action:

Day 1 (Wednesday, August 21):

Juddmonte International Stakes The festival kicks off with a bang, featuring the Juddmonte International Stakes, a Group 1 race over 1 mile and 2 furlongs. This race often attracts some of the best middle-distance horses in the world.

Day 2 (Thursday, August 22):

Darley Yorkshire Oaks The second day showcases the Darley Yorkshire Oaks, another Group 1 event, this time for fillies and mares over 1 mile and 4 furlongs. This race is a key target for top-class female horses.

Day 3 (Friday, August 23):

Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes Day three's highlight is the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes, a thrilling sprint over 5 furlongs. This race is unique as it allows horses aged two years and older to compete against each other.

Day 4 (Saturday, August 24):

Sky Bet Ebor Handicap The festival culminates with the Sky Bet Ebor Handicap, the richest flat handicap race in Europe. This 1 mile and 6 furlong race is renowned for its competitive field and large purse, making it a must-watch event.

Favorites and UK Odds

According to betting and casino Twin.com website, several horses are generating buzz for the 2024 Ebor Festival, with early odds reflecting the competitive nature of the event:

Juddmonte International Stakes

Paddington (5/2): This Aidan O'Brien-trained colt has shown remarkable consistency and speed over middle distances.

Desert Crown (3/1): Last year's Derby winner, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, is expected to make a strong showing.

Darley Yorkshire Oaks

Emily Upjohn (4/1): A talented filly from John and Thady Gosden's yard, known for her impressive finishes.

Blue Rose Cen (5/1): This French raider has a formidable record in similar races.

Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes

Highfield Princess (7/2): A sprinter in top form, trained by John Quinn.

Bradsell (4/1): This young, speedy colt is trained by Archie Watson and is expected to be a strong contender.

Sky Bet Ebor Handicap

Hamish (6/1): William Haggas' stayer is highly fancied after a series of strong performances.

Trawlerman (8/1): Another Gosden-trained horse with a solid track record in handicaps.

Best Teams and Participants

The Ebor Festival attracts top trainers, jockeys, and horses, making it a showcase of elite talent. Some notable teams and participants include:

Aidan O'Brien: The legendary Irish trainer consistently fields top-quality horses across all major races.

Key Horses: Paddington, Auguste Rodin

John and Thady Gosden: This father-son duo is known for their meticulous preparation and success at major festivals.

Key Horses: Emily Upjohn, Trawlerman

Sir Michael Stoute: A veteran trainer with a stellar record at York.

Key Horses: Desert Crown, Bay Bridge

William Haggas: Born in Yorkshire, Haggas always aims to perform well at the Ebor Festival.

Key Horses: Hamish, Alenquer

Interesting Facts about the Ebor Festival 

Historic Roots: The Ebor Handicap, the centerpiece of the festival, was first run in 1843. The name "Ebor" is derived from Eboracum, the Roman name for York.

Record Purses: The Ebor Handicap boasts a purse of £1 million, making it the richest flat handicap race in Europe.

Fashion and Festivities: Beyond the racing, the Ebor Festival is also famous for its social scene, with racegoers donning elegant attire and participating in various social events.

International Participation: The festival attracts horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the world, adding to its prestige and competitive nature.Iconic Winners: Over the years, the Ebor Festival has seen numerous legendary horses, including Sea The Stars, Enable, and Frankel, competing and triumphing on its storied turf.

Last 5 Winners of the Ebor Handicap

2023 - Absurde

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Jockey: Frankie Dettori

Absurde provided a spectacular win for Frankie Dettori, likely his last Ebor Handicap, with an impressive ride under the expert training of Willie Mullins.

2022 - Trawlerman

Trainer: John and Thady Gosden

Jockey: Frankie Dettori Trawlerman secured victory in a thrilling race, showcasing the exceptional training by the Gosdens and the impeccable timing of Frankie Dettori.

2021 - Sonnyboyliston

Trainer: Johnny Murtagh

Jockey: Ben Coen

Sonnyboyliston claimed a hard-fought victory, giving Irish trainer Johnny Murtagh and jockey Ben Coen a significant win at York.

2020 - Fujaira Prince

Trainer: Roger Varian

Jockey: Andrea Atzeni

Fujaira Prince demonstrated a strong performance to clinch the Ebor Handicap, showcasing the training excellence of Roger Varian and the skilled riding of Andrea Atzeni.

2019 - Mustajeer

Trainer: Ger Lyons

Jockey: Colin Keane

Mustajeer produced an exciting finish, granting trainer Ger Lyons and jockey Colin Keane a notable victory in the competitive Ebor Handicap.