At Notion HQ we were convinced that no one actually goes to the races to watch horses. We were sure that it was just an excuse to ogle at fancy society dresses and for you to show off your new Philip Treacy hat; or if you’re of the male persuasion, to dress in the finest morning suit that you can find. Little did we know how integrated horse racing is into British society. Now we know more, it’s almost surprising we don’t all own horses, or at least spend more time at the races.
It was 200AD when the first horse races took place in our fair Isles. The Romans, who were always the thrill seekers, wanted something to amuse them and a sporting competition. It was these settlers who created a British tradition, which is quite nice.
The races are a royal affair. What’s more, the Royals actually have an deep bond with the races. It was Queen Anne, back in 1711, who launched the the Royal Ascot, which has since gone on to become a highlight of society season, daarrling. What you might not know is that the Royal Family host a horse-and-carriage procession to the Royal Enclosure each year, which kicks off the whole shebang. If you’re ever at Ascot, the height of sophistication would be to have our very own Queen Elizabeth II as an attendee. Nothing could be more fabulous.
Nowadays, horse racing is still very much a thing. In fact, it generates £3.7billion per year, and is the nation’s second largest spectator sport. While the races have stayed the same, technology has changed the way we interact with the sport. No longer do we have to head down to the local bookies to place a bet, but we can do it on our smart phones. Likewise, streaming has made the sport completely accessible; I could be having a nice drink up the Shard (not a euphemism), and watch the races on tablet.
Ethically speaking, a lot has been done to ensure that the races match our heightened awareness of animal welfare. New conditions, such as reductions in the height of jumps for hurdle races, and the prevention against jockeys raising their whips above should height, have all made sure that the sort of much kinder to the horses. How lovely.
For those that want to know more about about the races, you should stay up-to-date during Cheltenham 2014, one of the higher echelons of competitive racing that is offered in the UK.
- Alim Kheraj
(Sponsored Post)
