The excitement is palpable at Musselburgh Racecourse as horse racing fans gear up for a thrilling day of competition on Saturday, April 19, 2025. With a lineup that includes the prestigious Queen's Cup and the quirky Corgi Derby, this event promises to deliver heart-pounding moments and memorable victories.
The day kicks off with the Corgi Derby at 12 PM, where 17 adorable Corgis will dash down the track in a race that honors the late Queen Elizabeth II's love for the breed. This beloved event, first launched in 2022 to commemorate the Queen's Jubilee Year, has become a staple of Musselburgh's race day celebrations. Last year’s winner, Juno, will be among the contenders, and his proud owner, Fran Brandon, is hoping for another victory. The race is expected to draw a large crowd, eager to witness the charming spectacle.
As the day progresses, the atmosphere will shift to the more serious business of horse racing, with a £300,000 seven-race card commencing at 1:50 PM. The first major race of the day is the Virgin Bet Every Saturday Money Back Silver Arrow Handicap at 2:25 PM, where Dain Ma Nut In is one of the favorites. This four-year-old horse, trained by Lucinda Russell, has shown impressive form, winning three consecutive races last year, two of which were at Musselburgh. After a third-place finish behind the promising Our Havana last time out, Dain Ma Nut In is looking to bounce back and reclaim his winning ways.
“He’s shown he can cut it at this level,” said Russell, who is optimistic about Dain Ma Nut In’s chances in the Silver Arrow. “The conditions are perfect for him, and I believe he’ll perform well.” Backed by enthusiastic punters, Dain Ma Nut In is well-supported on the sportsbooks, making him a strong contender in the 7f race.
Another horse to watch is Faylaq, a nine-year-old veteran making his 46th career start in the Virgin Bet Queen’s Cup at 3:35 PM. Priced at 14/1, Faylaq has a wealth of experience and is known for his versatility across varying ground conditions. He recently won over 1m6f at Doncaster's St Leger meeting, and his jockey, Amie Waugh, described him as “gorgeous” after that victory. This race will test Faylaq against younger competitors, but his track record suggests he will not be easily overlooked.
“Faylaq is a true warrior,” Waugh noted. “He’s got the heart and the experience to compete with anyone.” With the Queen's Cup being a heritage handicap, the stakes are high and the competition fierce.
In addition to these highlights, the race day features several other competitive events, including the Scottish Sprint Cup at 3:00 PM, where Cover Up is expected to shine. After a strong winter campaign in Dubai, Cover Up is back on turf and poised to make an impact. The horse's trainer has expressed confidence in his ability to adapt to the conditions at Musselburgh, making him a solid pick for punters looking to back a winner.
“He’s ready to run a big race,” said the trainer. “We’re looking forward to seeing how he performs.” Cover Up’s past performances suggest he could be a formidable contender in this fast-paced race.
As the day unfolds, racing enthusiasts will also be treated to expert tips from renowned racing analysts. Robin Goodfellow, a prominent figure in racing circles, has highlighted several key horses to watch throughout the day. His tips include Got Grey, who is expected to excel in the 2:05 PM race at Haydock, and Wise Eagle, who is aiming for a sixth course victory at Musselburgh in the 3:35 PM race.
“Wise Eagle has shown he can handle the pressure,” Goodfellow stated. “I expect him to put in a strong performance.” With such a rich array of talent on display, the day promises to be filled with excitement and potential upsets.
Horse racing fans can also look forward to the After-Racing Party hosted by Callum Gallacher, which will feature music and entertainment for all attendees, ensuring that the fun continues long after the final race. This festive atmosphere complements the day’s competitive spirit, providing a perfect blend of sport and celebration.
As the Corgi Derby and the various horse races approach, anticipation builds among spectators and participants alike. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the races at Musselburgh on April 19, 2025, are set to be a memorable event in the horse racing calendar.
