The final of one of the oldest professional athletics races in the world takes place today at Musselburgh Racecourse, 6 miles east of Edinburgh. The New Year Sprint final has taken place around New Year's Day annually since 1870. Today racers compete in the 139th event.
Formerly known as "The Powderhall", the Sprint semi-finals and final are incorporated into the traditional Christmas National Hunt horse-racing meeting today at Musselburgh. The New Year Sprint carries a first prize of £4,000 making it the richest race in the professional calendar.
The promoter is putting up a £5000 bonus for the competitor in the backmarkers event who can beat the World Professional record of 11.14 secs set by the great George McNeill back in 1970.
Doors open to Musselburgh Racecourse at 10.30am and the first of the seven jumps races (horseracing events) is off at 12.15pm. The New Year Sprint Final takes place at 2.19pm. Admission is £20 Adults, £10 Concessions and children 16 and under are admitted free with an adult.