Doncaster Racecourse is proud to announce a groundbreaking step forward in equine innovation with the installation of EASYFIX Equine's new Traditional Style Racecourse Hurdles this jumps season, making them the first racecourse in Britain to adopt this cutting-edge technology.
This major innovation underscores Doncaster's ambition to remain one of the country’s most progressive and forward-thinking racing venues. The newly installed hurdles, crafted entirely from advanced artificial materials, combine the traditional mechanics of timber hurdles with modern advances in safety and performance. Designed with the well-being of both horse and rider as the top priority.
The 3D birch is manufactured from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), a material that eliminates risks of splinters, razor-sharp breakages, and exposed end posts - issues commonly associated with traditional timber rails.
The hurdle’s moulded plastic body is also specifically designed to prevent a horse’s legs from penetrating the frame, a common risk associated with older wooden designs.
At the core of its design is a unique three-layer padded structure paired with a 3-D high-impact plastic toe board. Featuring a 60-degree ground line, the toe board not only assists the Doncaster ground team with precise setup but also offers clearer visibility for approaching horses and jockeys, improving jump accuracy and flow.
Key Benefits Include:
Increased safety for jockeys and horses
No splintering or sharp broken rails
No exposed end posts
Weatherproof construction
Easy to clean, maintain, stack, and store
Speaking about the new addition to the racecourse, Clerk of the Course at Doncaster, David Attwood, said: “We are delighted to be working with EASYFIX and to become the first British Track to use their Traditional Style hurdle for racing. We have been really impressed by how they have performed and by the feedback they have received from key stakeholders. We believe they represent a significant step forward in Horse Welfare and sustainability, which is crucial for us here at Doncaster. We can't wait to see them in action!”
Adding to this, Niall Earls, Co-CEO of EASYFIX, commented: “We’re incredibly proud to see Doncaster Racecourse become the first venue in the UK to install our new traditional style EASYFIX hurdles. Safety and performance sit at the heart of every product we design, and partnering with one of Britain’s most respected tracks marks a significant milestone for us as a company.”
The hurdles will make their debut at Doncaster Racecourse during the upcoming jump season, beginning on 28 November 2025. Spectators will be able to see them in action firsthand by purchasing tickets via the Doncaster Racecourse website.
