Speed is the key to race for Goodwood's bonus

The ROA Speed Bonus, now in its third year, goes to the owner of the horse which clocks the quickest per-furlong time measured by the Racing Post standard time.

Saturday’s races range from six furlongs to two miles. Owners and trainers had until Monday to enter their horses for the bonus.

Last year’s winner was the Eden Racing-owned Mujood, trained by Eve Johnson Houghton.

This year, the bonus on offer is £10,000 to the fastest horse on the day, with an extra £5,000 if the horse is owned by an ROA member. To be eligible for the additional bonus, the horse must be owned at least 50 per cent by an ROA member.

The racecourse is hosting a drinks reception in a special hospitality area for ROA members with runners on the day.

ROA president Rachel Hood said: “The Speed Bonus gives ROA members the chance to benefit from a welcome boost to prize-money. We would encourage members to enter any suitable races and take advantage of this initiative.”

Goodwood managing director Adam Waterworth said: “I’m delighted Goodwood and the ROA are working together on the Speed Bonus for a third year.”

Our Goodwood tips for Saturday: 145 Nayarra, 220 Ceilidh House, 250 Desert Law, 325 Axiom, 400 Daneking, 435 Deck Walk, 505 Celtic Sixpence, 540 Brick Red.

Highlights of Saturday’s programme include the Peter Willetts Stakes, named after the Goodwood stalwart who was a racecourse director for 32 years until his retirement in 2008.

That’s one of three listed races while the Group 3 Betfred Bonus King Select Stakes has attracted a strong field.

A parade of hounds will be staged ahead of the 4pm race.

Sunday sees more action at Goodwood, when seven races will be held.