Runners and Riders: The Rise of Modern Horse Racing

PRESS RELEASE
Runners and Riders: The Rise of Modern Horse Racing
5 May 2012 - February 2014

[right] Abraham Cooper, 1836
Lord George Bentinck’s horse “Miss Elis” and Van

Discover racing history straight from the horse's mouth with a new exhibition at The Harley Gallery, Welbeck. Opening on Saturday 5 May, the exhibition will show objects and paintings telling how the Cavendish Bentinck family at Welbeck helped change the face of horse racing, to become the sport we know today.

Did you know that the horse box was invented by the 4th Duke of Portland's younger son, Lord George Bentinck? Lord George realised that the horses would race better if they were transported to the race, and started to use a van to move them. His horses had an advantage, and his competitors quickly copied the idea.

Lord George immersed himself in the sport; he was a renowned gambler, esteemed owner and encouraged reforms to better regulate horse racing - including encouraging the use of a starting flag.

This exhibition will uncover the history of horse racing at Welbeck, and includes a rocking horse belonging to Lady Anne Bentinck (1916-2008). Lady Anne was a dedicated horsewoman who still rode at 90 years of age, and this rocking horse was named after 'Donovan', the 6th Duke of Portland's favourite horse.

Visitors can also see ornate racing prizes such as an elaborate silver 'George and the Dragon' trophy, alongside unexpected and personal items. On display will be the hooves of legendary sire, St Simon's - gold plated and made into ink wells, alongside the 6th Duke's racing colours and paintings by renowned equestrian artists.

If you fancy a flutter with horse racing history, visit Runners and Riders: The Rise of Modern Horse Racing at The Harley Gallery, Welbeck, from 5 May to 2014. The Harley Gallery is on the A60 between Mansfield and Worksop, is free to enter and also has free parking.

The exhibition will be touring to the National Horse Racing Museum, Newmarket and will be the first exhibition in their newly refurbished H.L.F. funded building.