Join in the celebrations as the harness racing series Rasus celebrates 21 years since the opening of its spiritual home Tir Prince on the biggest night of the racing season so far this year.
On Saturday 21 July, Ifan Jones Evans, Dot Davies, Megan Taff, Hywel Davies, Wyn Gruffydd and Raymond Jenkins will host coverage of S4C’s Champions’ Night which includes the Crock of Gold Final live from Tir Prince near Abergele.
Commentator Wyn Gruffydd admits that he loves presenting the thrill of Rasus from Tir Prince’s wonderful arena.
Tell us some of the history of Tir Prince.
When Tir Prince opened over twenty years ago, it was an instant hit. The location near Abergele ideal – harness racing in Northern England was very popular at the time and individuals fromWalesalso started taking an interest in the sport. The crowd would converge there on a weekly basis to watch a high standard of harness racing and the sport certainly captured the imagination of those attending.
What is so special about this course?
Every racecourse has a unique atmosphere. But what differentiates Tir Prince from the rest is its picturesque location and stunning seaside views. There’s no better place to watch exciting live harness racing and the culmination of the Crock of Gold competition than at Tir Prince under the floodlights with the fairground and sea in the background. Each of those factors adds to the magic of Tir Prince.”
This season has been blighted by the stormy weather. But what’s in store for S4C viewers when they tune in to Rasus on Saturday?
Without a doubt, this race will be the highlight of the season so far. The heavy rain and stormy weather of recent weeks have had quite an impact on this year’s meetings. But the racing at Tir Prince will be as fierce as ever with the horses and their jockeys desperate to compete after the disappointments of the past few weeks. And of course the Crock of Gold is also up for grabs and the prize holds much kudos and status for the winner.
Soon after the horses cross the finish line, you’ll travel to Llanelwedd for S4C’s extensive coverage of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show. What do you enjoy most about working at the Show?
Each year, there is a special atmosphere at the Royal Welsh Show with queues of people eager to watch the competitions in the main ring. I’m fortunate enough to be there throughout the week. With so many horses competing, it’s quite a challenge to research them all. You have to be on top of your game. This is one of the highlights of the year for me. I don’t think I’ve missed a Royal Welsh Show in about thirty years.
Watch and Win
There’s a chance to win £500 in the Watch and Win competition. Go to the Rasus website or call 0844 335 1897 to register. (The call will cost 15p per minute from a BT line, depending on your call plan. The cost may be higher for other providers, including mobile phones).