Horse racing is one of the most popular spectator sports in the UK and is also enjoyed worldwide.
Big race meetings are televised nationally and internationally and draw huge audiences, while thousands flock to attend the races in person.
Still more enjoy having a flutter on the gee-gees, with many people who would not otherwise bet making a fun exception for events like the Grand National.
Watching the big race on TV is undoubtedly enjoyable, and can be nail-biting if you’ve got money riding on one of the front runners. But many insist that you need to attend the race in person to experience the thrill of horse racing. Although COVID caused the cancellation of many events in 2020, it’s to be hoped that these will be back on in 2021, giving racing enthusiasts the chance to enjoy them in person once again.
Special and unique
A big horse race is a special and unique event, with so much going on besides the race itself. These are also glamorous social occasions, and celebrities and even royalty often attend the major dates in the racing calendar. The experience of mingling with the crowds and watching from the stands is entirely different from watching the race on TV. Indeed, as a day out, it’s in a class of its own.
Iconic courses
There are many racetracks in the UK and each has its unique characteristics and appeal. Some, like Ascot and Cheltenham, are iconic and known around the globe, while others are more modest. The Warrington area is particularly well-served for racecourses within travelling distance. Haydock Park is virtually on our doorstep, while both Chester and Aintree can be reached in an hour’s drive.
Placing a bet
There’s nothing like putting a bet on a horse to increase your sense of personal involvement with a race and to make watching it feel more exciting. Attending a race in person means you get to have a close look at the condition of the horses in the parade ring, as well as to get an idea of the state of the course. Of course, you should also pay attention to popular favourites and inside tips for events like the Cheltenham Festival 2021, as this will improve your chances of picking a winner.
Placing a bet in person at the racetrack and then watching the event surrounded by other committed punters also allows you to sample a uniquely exciting atmosphere that can’t be duplicated elsewhere. You’ll feel like you’re a part of the event, and win or lose you’ll have had a memorable occasion. There’s also no better place to celebrate, or commiserate as the case may be.
The social whirl
For many people, horse racing is first and foremost a social event, and you don’t even need to watch the race itself to enjoy the day. The opportunity to dress up, enjoy a sophisticated drink and people-watch is entertainment enough for anyone with interest in fashion or even human nature. Spotting the celebrities or just keeping an eye out for outrageous outfits (hats especially) can keep non-sports fans happily occupied throughout.
A long tradition
Horse racing has been around long enough to develop its traditions and to become a significant part of the fabric of British culture. Attending a race lets you tap into this and experience something that is a part of your heritage. Once the sole prerogative of lords and ladies, races are now open to all but still have a distinctive atmosphere that lifts you above the everyday and into a timeless tradition.
Of course, the main reason for events like the Grand National is the race itself, with often millions of pounds riding on the outcome. But for those that attend in person, these are occasions to see and be seen and are as much a fixture of the social calendar as the sporting one. There is a level of excitement and interest that simply can’t be captured by watching it on TV at home, no matter how much producers jazz it up with interactive coverage.
That isn’t meant to disparage watching races on the telly, of course. Not everyone can get to the event in person, and televised races are highly enjoyable, as far as television goes. Viewers should be aware, however, that they are only getting half the picture. To appreciate the other half, put on your best clothes and get down to the next big racing event near you.
