For many people, even those who don’t consider themselves horse racing fans, a day out at the races is an enjoyable experience. What sets horse racing aside from many other sports is that you don’t need to be a huge fan to enjoy yourself, you don’t even need to be a sports fan.
This is because a day at the races is far more than just watching the action on the track. From having a meal together, either buying or taking your own, to enjoying a drink and maybe even winning some money, there is a lot to like about the day as a whole.
Wales has three different racecourses and all of them offer action all year round with both jumps and flat racing taking place. That gives those in the country plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy themselves.
Where to Go Racing in Wales
There are three racecourses in Wales, and they all provide racing for most of the year, with a small gap for maintenance when the season’s are changing.
Ffos Las and Chepstow have winter jump racing followed by summer flat racing while Bangor hosts jump racing only, but they do have summer fixtures as well as traditional winter ones.
The biggest race in Wales is the Welsh Grand National which is run at Chepstow on December 27. This brings together the toughest horses over an extreme trip and many contenders often go on to run in the Aintree Grand National in April, such is the quality in the field.
For those who would prefer a visit in the summer months, all three courses have racing taking place and will often have family events planned throughout the year with events taking place for the kids to enjoy.
Betting During Your Day Out
Betting plays a big part in a day at the races, and even as a complete beginner you can get involved. Many people pick horses by name, number or colour, you certainly won’t be the only one doing this if that is what you want to do.
You can bet with one of the many on course bookmakers while you are at the track, or bet online beforehand if you would like to get your bets on and not worry about finding the time to bet. Online sportsbooks use free bets to encourage people to sign up with them as a new customer.
There are many ways to bet on the action, but if you are visiting and betting for the first time then the best option is to try and keep it simple. Bet win or each way on each individual race, and then if you get a win or a place at least you will see a return to brighten your day.
Get Dressed for the Occasion
Many people look forward to a day at the races, they dress up for the occasion and some choose to find a place to stay to really enjoy the day.
Even if you are attending a regular day at the races and you are not heading into the hospitality boxes, you can still get dressed up to enjoy the occasion and many people on course will do so.
You can make the day as special as you like, with the option to buy champagne if you want to have a celebration on a summer’s day sitting outside at the side of the course. This is what makes horse racing special, you can turn it into a day out, rather than just a sporting event, which is why so many people love attending.
Image by Clarence Alford from Pixabay