CHEPSTOW Racecourse is poised for its opening horse racing fixture of 2010.
There has been little jump racing this month across Britain due to the wintry weather, but all systems are go for Friday's fixture at Chepstow.
Only a small amount of frost remains in the ground. Temperatures are set to rise to 8C by midweek, so there will be no problems. However, the going is set to be testing underfoot.
There are six races - three steeplechases and three over hurdles - starting at 1.40pm.
Friday is the first fixture for the new Clerk of the Course Keith Ottesen, who has replaced Tim Long after he moved permanently to Ffos Las Racecourse.
Keith, who comes to South Wales from Uttoxeter Racecourse, is one of the most experienced clerks in Britain, and is a Senior Clerk with Chepstow Racecourse's parent group Northern Racing.