Horse racing is by far the most popular sport in Mauritius. Though the racing itself takes place only about seven-eight months a year (May to December) and only once a week, on Saturdays, it still plays a major role in the local cultural, fashion, financial and of course sports scene.
Official horse racing on the island have been running since the first racecourse was inaugurated in 1812, shortly after the foundation of the Mauritius Turf club.
Nowadays, the famous Champs De Mars , located in the capital city of Port-Louis, racecourse is still in use, without any changes to the hippodrome itself. The Champs de Mars is built in such a classic way that one can have a clear view of the entire course from one spot, unlike in modern courses. Horseracing in Mauritius is highly considered around the world and live coverage of these races are available in South Africa, Australia and several European countries. This is mainly due to the fact that all horses and most jockeys are foreign (especially South African, Australian, French and English).
The entry to the inner area of the hippodrome is free of charge and is only closed a couple of minutes before the race (8 heats per racing day). Whereas access to the stands will cost you around 100 Rupees. Every racing day brings to the hippodrome about one hundred thousand (100 000) spectators and pointers and several hundreds of thousands stay tuned to their radio or television sets
From your resort on the island, you can easily book a seat in more luxurious boxes, usually kept for the Mauritius Turf Club members including transfers to and from the resort for around 10000 Rupees per person. These VIP boxes offer excellent service and complimentary food & beverages for guests all day long.
Like most racing courses around the world, the Champs de Mars, runs several “classic” races, which attract a greater crowd than usual ; The Duchess of York cup (usually the first racing day, in May), The Barbe cup, The Maiden cup (most important and valued race of the year) and The International Jockeys weekend (where the leading jockeys from around the world are invited for a special 2 days meeting in a very festive environment).
Horse racing is a very important factor in the Mauritian life and has played a vital role in shaping the country’s financial, cultural and social life. Adding to it the fact that it is a very entertaining form of leisure, it is a must for all those visiting the paradise island of Mauritius.
Once horses have retired from active racing, they are usually donated to privately owned stables or hotels (Le Coco Beach for example), in order for them to relax in their older days and entertain the larger crowds with greater ease and less stress.
