Pontefract is one of the longest racecourses in the country – if not the longest (York has a longer continuous circuit but this was only ever used when Royal Ascot was relocated to York in 2005 whilst the new facilities were being built. A course that requires stamina with a stiff 3 furlong uphill finish. There is a listed race (Silver Tankard Stakes) that takes place in October each year as part of the end of the season which is a well-regarded race day. Racing in Pontefract dates back to the 17th century and apart from a 30 year sabbatical towards the end of the 18th century; racing has been ever present since the beginning of the 19th century and continues to be a well attended racecourse by the local community.