How Much Can You Really Raise with a Race Night?
(A Practical Guide for Schools, Clubs & Charities)
If you’ve never run a Race Night before, it’s easy to wonder whether it’s worth it.
Will people enjoy it?
Will it feel complicated?
And the big question — how much money can you actually raise?
After 30 years of running Race Nights across Sussex and the South East, I can tell you this with confidence:
Race Nights are one of the most reliable, enjoyable and profitable fundraising events you can run.
Let’s break down why they work so well — and what you can realistically expect to raise.
Why Race Nights Raise So Much Money
A Race Night is simple, social and brilliantly interactive.
Everyone gets involved, everyone has fun, and the atmosphere builds naturally throughout the evening.
Unlike raffles or quiz nights, a Race Night has multiple fundraising moments, which means you’re not relying on one big push.
You raise money steadily all night long.
Typical Fundraising Totals
Most groups raise between:
£1,000 – £3,500 in a single evening
Here’s what affects the total:
• Number of guests
• Ticket price
• How active your audience is
• Sponsorships
• Auctions & bonus games
• How well the event is promoted
Schools, PTAs and sports clubs often hit the higher end because their communities are already engaged and supportive.
Where the Money Comes From
A Race Night has several built‑in fundraising opportunities:
1. Tote Betting
This is the main income stream.
It’s simple, fast and fun — and it adds up quickly.
2. Race Sponsorships
Local businesses love this.
It’s affordable for them and pure profit for you.
3. Horse Ownership
Guests “buy” a horse for a small fee.
If their horse wins, they get a prize — and you keep the rest.
4. Raffles & Auctions
Perfect for donated prizes, vouchers and experiences.
5. Ticket Sales
A small entry fee helps cover costs and boosts your total.
When you combine all of these, the numbers climb fast.
Why Race Nights Work for Every Type of Group
Schools & PTAs
Parents love a social night out, and Race Nights are easy to run alongside raffles and bar sales.
Sports Clubs
Competitive people + betting = a brilliant atmosphere.
Clubs often raise the most because everyone gets stuck in.
Charities
Supporters enjoy a fun evening while contributing to a cause they care about.
Community Groups
Race Nights bring people together — and that alone makes them successful.
What I Provide to Make It Easy
When you book Sussex Race Nights, everything is handled for you:
• Professional hosting
• Fully compliant tote system
• Pre‑recorded races
• PA system & screens
• All paperwork
• Guidance on maximising your fundraising
• Legal compliance covered
You focus on your guests — I take care of the rest.
Final Thoughts
A Race Night isn’t just a fundraiser — it’s a proper night out.
People laugh, cheer, shout, celebrate and get completely swept up in the fun.
And while they’re enjoying themselves, your school, club or charity is raising a serious amount of money.
If you’re looking for a fundraising event that’s easy to run, great fun and proven to work, a Race Night is hard to beat.
