Russell and Scudamore Lead Strong Challenge for Bonus Raceday

Perth Racecourse is set for an unexpected autumn racing treat on Thursday 15 October, with a bumper eight-race card attracting strong support from trainers across Britain and Ireland, including a powerful team from local trainers Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore.

Just when racing fans thought the curtain had fallen on Perth's 2026 season, the picturesque Scone Palace venue is preparing to welcome racegoers back for one final afternoon of thrilling National Hunt action.

The additional Racing TV Raceday has been arranged at the request of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), following a spell of dry weather that has led to abandonments at racecourses further south.

With Perth benefiting from softer ground conditions, the bonus fixture has attracted considerable interest from trainers eager to get their horses back on the track as the winter jumps season gathers momentum.

Among those taking full advantage are local training partners Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore, who are set to field a strong team of runners across the afternoon's eight-race programme.

"We entered plenty and we have declared lots of horses," Russell said.

The Perthshire stable heads into the meeting in encouraging form, having enjoyed success with two promising prospects at Hexham on Saturday, and hopes are high that another exciting youngster can make his mark on home turf.

One to watch is Ar Ais Aris, who lines up in the Join Racing TV Maiden Hurdle.

The son of Walk In The Park caught the eye when finishing runner-up in a bumper at Perth's April Festival, and Russell believes he has the potential to develop into a smart performer over obstacles.

"He finished second in a point-to-point that has been working out well and he is a chasing type by Walk In The Park," Russell explained.

"I thought he showed plenty of encouragement when runner-up in a bumper at the Perth Festival and he is a novice hurdler to follow this season."

The stable will also introduce Kershaw, who makes his first appearance for the Russell and Scudamore partnership in the Racing TV Profits Returned To Racing Maiden Hurdle.

Having previously shown promise in Ireland, where he finished second in a point-to-point before winning a bumper, Kershaw is another exciting prospect for the season ahead.

"When he was trained in Ireland he was second in a point-to-point and won a bumper," Russell said. "It was always the plan to go straight over hurdles and we like what we've seen so far."

While the local contingent will be hoping to make home advantage count, there is plenty of quality among the visiting challengers.

One of the afternoon's most intriguing runners is Karbral Du Mathan, who makes his eagerly anticipated debut over fences for leading trainer Dan Skelton in the Download The Free Racing TV App Now Beginners' Chase.

Rated 156 over hurdles, the highly regarded performer has already established himself at a high level, having claimed Grade 2 honours and finished a close fourth in the prestigious Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

Now embarking on a new chapter in his career, Karbral Du Mathan drops back to two miles for his first assignment over fences, adding further interest to an already competitive card.

With established stars, exciting newcomers and promising young horses all set to feature, Thursday's meeting promises a fascinating glimpse of the talent that could make headlines throughout the months ahead.

For Perth Racecourse, the additional fixture offers a welcome opportunity to extend the 2026 racing season and provide another afternoon of top-quality jumps racing in the stunning parklands of Scone Palace.

Gates open at 12 noon on Thursday 15 October, with the first race scheduled for 12.55pm and the final contest at 4.50pm.

Racegoers can look forward to all the excitement of live racing, from the anticipation in the parade ring to the roar of the crowd as runners battle towards the winning post.

Whether you're a dedicated racing enthusiast or simply looking for an unexpected autumn afternoon out, this bonus fixture is the perfect excuse to enjoy one more day at Perth.

One more raceday. Eight exciting races. One last chance to experience the thrill of jumps racing at Perth in 2026.

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