The sheer spectacle and colour of seeing racehorses and jockeys close up, the hustling activity that surrounds the betting, the lively excitement of the race itself, the sociability of a day out in the open air with family, friends or business associates, and the opportunity to win yourself a few pounds - you can't beat being there, which is why six million people come racing each year.
The more you know about what's going on, the more fun you'll get from a day at the races, and the aim of these pages is to increase your enjoyment by supplying some basic information about racegoing.
British racecourses stage two codes of horse racing, flat and jumping, both of which take place all year round. Currently there are 19 flat courses, including the existing 3 All-Weather racecourses; 24 jumps courses and 17 dual purpose. There are plans for further All-Weather surfaces to be developed, Kempton Park races on the new floodlit All-Weather surface in March 2006 and Newbury are due to race on their All-Weather surface in December 2006. Musselburgh are seeking planning permission for a floodlit All-Weather track.
Flat racing features the five Classics: The Stan James 2000 and 1000 Guineas, The Vodafone Oaks, The Vodafone Derby and The Ladbrokes St Leger. There are a number of major flat meetings such as Royal Ascot, where you will see the world's most valuable thoroughbreds, members of the Royal family and many celebrities. However, cheering home one of the leading jockeys such as Frankie Dettori or Jamie Spencer at any of the many flat meetings staged around the country can be equally exciting, particularly if they are riding your fancy!
Jump racing over steeplechase fences or hurdles, features the Easibed Summer Jumping Championships from April to October and the winter months build up to a climax with the Cheltenham National Hunt Festival in March and the John Smiths Grand National Meeting at Aintree in April. Jump racing also has a wonderful following from the influx of the Irish at Cheltenham to the loyal supporters at their local country racecourse.
The variety of horse racing on offer in Britain is unparalleled anywhere in the world and the fifty-nine racecourses, each with its own particular character and atmosphere, offer a wide range of experiences and cater for all tastes and all pockets.
Every day's racing is a refreshing and exciting occasion, and a great horse or a famous race can transform the day into one of those magical occasions when you are grateful simply to be able to say: 'I was there.'
Britain's racecourses have broad appeal, offering an enjoyable day out for people of all ages - from children through to those who have retired, plus being excellent for business entertaining. All courses offer free admission for accompanied children aged under 16 or 17 while there are often concessions for students and pensioners. Facilities for corporate entertaining are good and race sponsorship is ideal for generating publicity.
