South Africa is known for its wide variety of attractions, from its stunning mountain ranges to its vibrant cities. One of the most popular activities for tourists and locals alike is horse racing. But how many racecourses are there in South Africa? In this article, we’ll explore the history of horse racing in South Africa, the different types of racecourses and the number of racecourses throughout the country.
History of Horse Racing in South Africa
Horse racing has been a popular pastime in South Africa since the 19th century. The first racecourse was established in 1873 in Port Elizabeth. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity and there are now more than 50 racecourses across the country.
Types of Racecourses
There are three main types of racecourses in South Africa. These are flat, hurdle and steeplechase. Flat racing is the most popular type of racing and is held on a flat track. Hurdle racing is similar to flat racing but the horses must jump over hurdles during the race. Steeplechasing is a type of racing that involves jumping over obstacles such as fences or ditches.
Number of Racecourses in South Africa
There are currently fifty-four racecourses in South Africa. These are spread across the country, from the Western Cape to the Northern Cape and from the Free State to KwaZulu-Natal. The majority of these racecourses are flat racing tracks, with a few dedicated to hurdle and steeplechase racing.
The Most Popular Racecourses in South Africa
The most popular racecourse in South Africa is Turffontein Racecourse in Johannesburg. Turffontein is home to the biggest horse race in the country, the Durban July Handicap, which attracts thousands of spectators each year. Other popular racecourses in South Africa include Kenilworth Racecourse in Cape Town, Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, and Fairview Racecourse in Port Elizabeth.
Other Major Racecourses in South Africa
- Vaal Racecourse in the Free State
- Greyville Racecourse in Durban
- Flamingo Park Racecourse in Kimberley
- New Turf Racecourse in Bloemfontein
- Arlington Racecourse in Eastern Cape
- Fairview Racecourse in Port Elizabeth
- Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban
Major Horse Racing Events in South Africa
South Africa is home to a number of major horse racing events. These include the Durban July Handicap, the J&B Met, the Vodacom Durban July, the Sun Met and the SA Fillies Classic. These events draw large crowds and attract some of the best horses from around the world.
The Future of Horse Racing in South Africa
Horse racing is a popular pastime in South Africa and it is likely to remain so in the future. More and more racecourses are being built and new events are being added to the calendar. With more people getting involved in the sport, it is likely that horse racing will continue to be a popular activity in South Africa in the years to come.
Conclusion
Horse racing is an integral part of South African culture and there are now more than fifty racecourses across the country. From flat racing to hurdle and steeplechase events, there is something to suit everyone. With more people getting involved in the sport, it is likely that horse racing will remain popular in South Africa for many years to come.