Prizemoney alone does not make a successful racing Festival in the British Isles. It might help draw the best horses, but there are other ingredients that create the perfect recipe for success.

York is fourth chronologically in the catalogue of big summer meetings in England. It takes place on one of the most superb racecourses anywhere in the world, and is watched from grandstands that provide excellent viewing and first class restaurants and facilities.

Next year, those facilities will be further upgraded, with attention switching to the middle of the course. Around £5m has been allocated for a revamp of the infield, according to William Derby, York's chief executive, who this week oversees his 15th Ebor meeting.

Derby is rightly proud of the racecourse and the incredibly high standard of racing being staged over the four days this week, with Wednesday's three-way tussle between Ulysses, Churchill and Godolphin's Barney Roy in the G1 Juddmonte International setting the scene.

What appeared an epic contest on paper lived up to expectations in every regard.

Lord Grimthorpe, chairman of York Race Committee, felt that a truly strong renewal of the Juddmonte had taken place.

"It's been Britain's leading-rated race over the last few years, and of course, this year we had three crackerjacks all in the mix with a furlong to go. We would always be happy with a race like that."

Lord Grimthorpe also paid tribute to the devotion of Yorkshire crowds. "I was brought up here in Yorkshire, and I love this course like no other," he said.

"The racing public thrive on seeing good horses, having good facilities, and a good atmosphere on raceday. We love the enthusiasm the people have for the racing.

"We love them to come, dress up, have a good time. The racing public of York have been so supportive. They make it. They make it a fun place to come," he said.