Horse Racing in Britain and Ireland

By: Anne Holland

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Synopsis: Historian and experienced rider Anne Holland explores the history of horse racing, from the horses and jockeys, the history and racecourses, to betting and race-goers. The "Sport of Kings," racing dates back to contests between chariots at the ancient Olympics. Racing came to Britain with the Romans, and its popularity, particularly among the elite, led to the creation of the thoroughbred racehorse; and the establishment of a racing calendar with flat races and steeple chases at a plethora of dedicated racecourses around the country. Attending the races is a social activity no longer restricted to the elite, to the point that some racegoers enjoy a day out without every turning to watch the horses race by.