What is the Hype About Horse Racing?

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports to date and its simplicity from the outset has allowed it to keeps the intrigue of its spectators, leading to some of the most anticipated events in the sporting calendar. And not forgetting the bonus of having the opportunity to win some money, sitting back with a drink in your hand, watching your chosen horse take the lead.

Betting is now one of the main reasons to watch or attend a horse race and the activity generates millions of pounds in singular events. Betting is exciting and gives people a thrill with timely results for the impatient gamblers.

During the 2019 Grand National, around £250 million was spent in bets alone, with an estimate of 12.9 million people placing these bets from live spectators and the millions of viewers watching the events from home. 

This may seem like a lot, but with 600 million viewers watching the races, maybe it’s not just the thrill of a bet that draws the masses of peoples attention.

People may say it’s the glamour and the high-class atmosphere in the air at these events. Strict dress codes and limited drinks per round ensure that all spectators are on their best behaviours while dressed to the nines.

Ascot is a high-profile race known for its strict rules in attempts to keep its reputation of excellence and elegance. The event requires all women to wear formal daywear, ensuring dresses and skirts are just above the knee, or longer, as well as all straps, being of an inch or greater. Let’s not forget the infamous hats of the races, which should be worn by all women, or a headpiece as an alternative.

But it’s not just the women who need to read the rules before attending, men are required to wear either grey or black ….

• Waistcoat and tie
• Top hat (removed when inside)
• Dress shoes 

Although different UK tracks may be less regimented with their rules, it is still expected that spectators arrive for a day of sophisticated enjoyment, with their appearance and behaviour. 

As well as being an exciting spectator sport, horse racing does not disappoint when it comes to the experience with tracks in some of the most beautiful locations around the world …

• Piazza del Campo, in Siena Italy, will leave you speechless. Within historical and rural buildings in medieval Italy, it is one of Italy’s most famous sporting event and is held twice annually.

• Meydan, Dubai was finished in 2010 and has held the world richest horse race since. This track can hold 60,000 spectators and is the longest single structure in the world, at 1.600 meters.

• Chantilly Racecourse, France. Just a few miles from Paris, this stunning track is host to many big races throughout the season and is regarded for its atmosphere of luxury and glamour, with previous sponsors from high-end fashion and jewellery brands such as Hermes and Longines.

• Home of the Melbourne Cup, Flemington Racecourse is just on the edge of Melbourne’s buzzing centre and has the breath-taking backdrop of the Maribyrnong River. The course has a history of attracting celebrity and wealthy spectator since opening in 1840.