The competitiveness and inclusiveness of the sport have made its popularity grow as years go on. But real fans know that there is no better way to watch a horse race than to spectate it for yourself from the track and soak in the atmosphere. So here are a few of the most prestigious events in the horse racing calendar that you simply cannot miss without regretting it.
Royal Ascot
Located in Berkshire, England, Royal Ascot is an annual thoroughbred horse racing event. It’s one of the top horse racing locations the UK, at which 13 of Britain’s total of 36 Group 1 races are held. Ascot has long been know for keeping the original status of horse racing alive. Its events have an unmatched atmosphere that is both classy and unforgettable.
Ascot is a popular event for celebrities and is known to attract the attention of the royal family. It has had royal connections since being opened by Queen Ann back in 1711. This has helped to make it one of the world’s most historic racing events.
Before you head to Ascot there are a few things you need to know. A big one is their strict dress code, which applies to all visitors.
Here are a few tips for Ascot relating to its general rules on what to wear…
- Skirts must be of a modest length and so falling on the top of the knee or longer.
- The straps of any top or dress must be thicker than one inch and jacket or cover-ups must be worn over dresses/tops when inside the royal enclosure.
- Men’s suits must be full length and of matching material.
- Hats or head-dresses should be worn as long as the base is larger than 4-inches
- Clothing that is halterneck, spaghetti-strapped, strapless or show your midriff is strictly not permitted.
The Grand National
People come from all over the world to watch the Grand National. In fact, the average yearly viewership for the event is around 600 million worldwide. The National is one of the most well know races, not just in the United Kingdom. The handicap steeplechase event is held annually in Aintree, Liverpool and was first run back in 1839. It has since become know for the difficulty of its track and hudles, which set aside the best horses from the rest.
The track stretches 4 miles and 514 yards with a total of 30 jumps for the horses to clear over the two laps required. This 181-year old event is always a much-anticipated event in the calendar of avid racing fans. But it’s common that this event even excites those that are not very interested in the sport. Many join in with the thrill of placing a bet, whether it be on the horse with the prettiest colours on or the one with the best odds. It’s an the event brings people together like no other.
Which is your favourite of Britain’s most prestigious events in horse racing?
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