Hearts has launched its annual Family Race Day for 2009 at Mussleburgh Racecourse.

The Hearts themed day has attracted more than 15,000 supporters in the last three years and this year will dovetail with one of the richest harness race meetings ever held in the UK.

With a £60,000 prize fund over the weekend, nine qualifying heats will be held at the Saturday party night meeting (18th July) while on the Sunday, (19th July) the Heart of Midlothian Family Race day features the £10,000 Famous Musselburgh Pace Cup, which attracts the best pacers in the UK and Ireland.

Hearts commercial manager Ross Easton, said: "Hearts is absolutely delighted to be working in partnership with Musselburgh Racecourse and this will be another great day for families, corporate partners and sponsors.

"We've shaken things up this year in that we're getting involved in harness racing for the first time. It's a fantastically exciting form of the sport and Musselburgh is a key venue in the UK harness racing calendar."

Musselburgh Racecourse commercial manager, Sarah Montgomery, added: "This is a double helping of mid summer sport and should appeal to both football and racing fans alike. We are always happy to welcome the Hearts support to Musselburgh and this year they will also be treated to the best harness racing anywhere in the UK.

"It's a child friendly event with lots of free attractions for families of all ages and we are sure the new format will be a great success."

In addition to nine harness races the Hearts Race Day also features the official Clydesdale Bank Premier League Mascot Race, plus a range of fun and football activities for all the family.

Online advance tickets are priced £13 and entry on the day is £15. Children aged 16 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult and with photo ID.

Gates open at 11.30am on Sunday 19 July and the first race is at 1pm.

Hearts Hospitality is available in the newly refurbished Queens Stand. In the restaurant, guests will enjoy a private viewing garden on the finishing line with a finger buffet. Tickets are priced at £35 for adults and £30 for U16s.

General admission tickets for the Heart of Midlothian Family Race Day are available here or by calling 0131 665 2859.

Information and booking for Hearts Hospitality is available from Hearts Events on 0871 663 1874, option 3 or ross@homplc.co.uk.

Tickets are available in advance by booking online here from Musselburgh Racecourse - or (subject to availability) on the day.