Officials at Chepstow Racecourse are reporting strong ticket sales for the feature meeting of the year, the Coral Welsh National. The course is expecting an attendance of more than 9000 people for the race on Thursday 27th December.

Some of the best jump horses in training have been entered for this year's contest which has prize money of £90,000. Among the 55 entries are five of the first six horses home in last year's race including the winner Le Beau Bai, Giles Cross and Cappa Bleu.

The race has also attracted leading chasers such as Tidal Bay, Teaforthree, Michel Le Bon, Bradley, Monbeg Dude, Across The Bay and Alfie Sherrin. Harry The Viking, owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, is also among the entries.

Rebecca Joy, General Manager at Chepstow Racecourse said: "The Coral Welsh National is the highlight of our racing calendar and ticket sales are currently ten per cent ahead compared to the same time last year. The £7 advance booking discount is available until midday on Christmas Eve.

"The fixture is a traditional post-Christmas social occasion for people living in Wales and the South West and attracts some of the best horses in training. It is a race that all jump trainers would like to win and over the years.

Winners including Earth Summit, Cool Ground, Silver Birch, Master Oats and Synchronised have gone on to win either the Aintree Grand National or the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

"This year's race has even more significance because it is the 40th anniversary of Coral's sponsorship. We are delighted with their on-going support and look forward to a fantastic day."

David Stevens, from Coral, said: "Coral's sponsorship of the Welsh National is one of the longest-running in sport and we are delighted and proud that 2012 marks the 40th year of our partnership with Chepstow and Wales's greatest race. 

"The roll of honour features some of the great staying chasers of the last four decades, including the subsequent Gold Cup winner, Synchronised. We look forward to seeing the latest chapter being written next month, perhaps featuring a Welsh-trainer winner in Teaforthree."

The Coral Welsh National is run over 3m 5f and is a Grade 3 handicap chase with 22 obstacles. It is known as a strong test of stamina and attracts top class long distance chasers often with their sights set on the Gold Cup or the Grand National later in the season.

Also on the card is the Coral Future Champions Finale Juvenile Hurdle with prize money of £29,500 and the Bet On Your Mobile Now At Coral.co.uk Handicap Chase worth £25,000.

Tickets in advance start from just £20 and children aged 15 and under go free of charge. Parking is free. The gates open at 10am and the first race is off at 12.30pm.

For further information contact:

Chepstow General Manager, Rebecca Joy on 01291 622260

Arena Racing Company PR Director, Kate Hills on 07813 947201