2026 Sue Ryder Mascot Gold Cup Raises £16,000 for Charity at Wetherby Racecourse

The world’s largest mascot race, the 2026 Sue Ryder Mascot Gold Cup, has made a remarkable impact by raising £16,000 to support the important work of the charity Sue Ryder. This exciting event took place on Friday, 8 May 2026, at Wetherby Racecourse and was part of the Family Raceday, which brought together families and fans for a day filled with fun and entertainment.

Event Highlights

The Mascot Gold Cup attracted mascots from all over the UK and beyond. This year’s race was won by The Snooty Fox, who improved from last year’s second-place finish to claim the top spot. Following closely behind were Ronnie the Rhino from Leeds Rhinos in second place and Lego Man from Tynedale Rugby Club in third. Lego Man's finish was particularly memorable, as he completed the race while juggling his own mascot head after a tumble, earning cheers and applause from the enthusiastic crowd.

In addition to the main event, a new feature called the Mini Mascot Gold Cup was introduced this year, designed for children aged 5 to 12. This lively warm-up race added to the fun and excitement, allowing young participants to enjoy the spirit of competition and show off their own mascots.

Global Participation

The Mascot Gold Cup also showcased mascots from around the world. Adryx, representing Rome Airport, won the award for Best Dressed, while Mr and Mrs Pig, who made the journey from New York, were recognised for being the Most Entertaining. This mix of local and international mascots contributed to the vibrant atmosphere of the day.

Support for Sue Ryder

All proceeds from the event will support Sue Ryder’s mission to provide expert palliative care and bereavement support. The charity plays a vital role in helping individuals and their families navigate the challenging times of terminal illness and grief. Last year alone, Sue Ryder provided over 655,000 hours of care, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that no one faces these difficult moments alone.

Sue Ryder expressed gratitude to all participants, spectators, and the headline sponsor, OPM Group, for their generous support. Susan Ellison, Joint Managing Director of OPM Group, commented:

“Team OPM had a fantastic day at the Mascot Gold Cup, enjoying great hospitality while supporting an incredibly important cause. Huge congratulations to everyone involved; we’re proud to be part of such a positive event and we look forward to being involved again next year.”

Looking Ahead

With the success of this year's event, plans are already in motion for the 2027 Mascot Gold Cup. Early entries are now open, allowing participants to choose from a wide selection of mascots. This initiative aims to encourage even more people to take part in the fun and support the essential work of Sue Ryder.

For those interested in joining the race next year, registration is available online at racebest.com/races/cqtcv. Participating in this event not only provides a chance to enjoy a day of entertainment but also plays a crucial role in supporting a charity that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

The Mascot Gold Cup stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and generosity, proving that even in light-hearted events, significant contributions can be made to support those in need. The ongoing partnership with OPM Group highlights the importance of collaboration in ensuring the success of such initiatives.