When it comes to organized sports, many of them have a long history and a rich tradition, some of them even dating from ancient times.
However, the sport that has probably the longest, richest, and classiest tradition and history is undoubtedly horse racing. When we think about its history, we think of full arenas, emperors, and kings watching the horses run around the track. This widespread sport is highly esteemed in all parts of the world, and practically anywhere you go, you can see wonderful tracks that are perfect for a weekend trip.
Here are some of the world’s finest racing tracks that everyone should visit.
1. Epsom Downs
The first member on this list is from Surrey, UK, and it has been around for a really long time. Epsom Downs was opened in 1661, and it hosts one of the biggest races in the world. There is not a single person in the world of horse racing that has not heard of the name Epsom Downs.
2. Flemington
This Australian track was opened in 1840, in Flemington, Melbourne. It features a left-handed orientation and it is home to the Melbourne Cup, which is celebrated as a national holiday in Australia.
3. Tokyo
This track is a bit younger, as it was opened in 1933. It can accommodate more than 200,000 spectators and it features a big video screen that makes the entire race clearly visible.
4. Santa Anita Park
Santa Anita is located in California, is one of the finest tracks in the USA and the world. It has been home to the Santa Anita Derby since 1935.
5. Saratoga
Opened in 1863, this American track is home to the Travers Stakes and the Whitney Handicap, and one of the most respected venues in North America. Its bell that is used to summon the jockeys to the paddock is legendary, and hearing it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
6. Aintree
This 1829 beauty from the UK is the host of the famous Liverpool Hurdle, the Aintree Bowl, and the Grand National. Its fences are so famous that they even have names of their own. To ride along this track is a great honor for both the horse and the jockey.
7. Meydan
This track is located in Dubai, UAE. It was opened in 2010, and it hosts the Dubai World Cup; this exquisite venue is one of the most luxurious and stunning horse tracks in the world.
8. Longchamp
France also has a beautiful track to show; it was built in 1857, and it is home to the Grand Prix de Paris. This track also hosts the richest horse race in Europe, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
9. Ascot
Ascot was opened in 1711 in the UK by Queen Anne, and it still features a strict dress code in some parts of the track. It is there that the Flat turf season ends in the UK.
10. Churchill Downs
This is probably the most famous track in the world. It is home to the Kentucky Derby and it is very well-known by horse racing fans and non-fans alike.