A fixture at Sedgefield since 1955, The Durham National is the biggest race to take place at the racecourse, and draws a large crowd each year. The race happens every October and is run over three and three-quarter miles. Usually accompanied with live entertainment, it makes a great autumn day out in County Durham.
The Durham National is one of the highlights of the horse racing calendar at Sedgefield Racecourse and has been a fixture here since 1955. Taking place each October, this testing long-distance handicap chase has become Sedgefield’s biggest race, challenging horses and jockeys over a demanding three-and-three-quarter-mile contest.
Over the decades, the Durham National has produced plenty of memorable winners, including horses who have gone on to achieve success on some of racing’s biggest stages. Red Alligator won the Durham National in 1967 before going on to claim the famous Grand National at Aintree in 1968, while Rubstic became a three-time Durham National winner before also securing Grand National glory in 1979.
More recently, the race has continued to attract talented staying chasers. Recent winners include Tommie Beau in 2023, Jesuitique in 2024 and Ivane in 2025, adding their names to a roll of honour stretching back more than 70 years!
