Want more wrestling news, rumors, and results? Be sure to visit PWInsider.com and PWInsiderXtra.com.
For centuries now, horse racing has been ingrained into British society and has provided a rich heritage full of iconic stories and unforgettable sporting moments.
Britain has played a vital role in the sport’s development, and the traditions and history of horse racing are arguably more prominent here than anywhere else in the world.
Britain plays host to some of the most prestigious races in the world, with all the latest prices and odds available right here: https://www.betfair.com/exchange/plus/horse-racing.
But let’s take a look through some fun facts that you might never have known about horse racing.
1. Contrary to popular belief, horse racing wasn’t actually invented in Britain. It is thought that Asian tribesmen use to race horses as far back as 4500 BC. Although, the modern day version of horse racing can be credited as to being invented in Britain.
2. Other than football, horse racing is the second most viewed sport throughout the whole of the United Kingdom. Annually, around six million people go to the races each year.
3. Although jump races are more popular, flat racing actually generates the larger prize funds. According to Racing Explained, the average prize fund for flat racing is £17,744.28 whereas jump races will earn an average of £11,072.49
4. Horse racing can generate billions for the UK’s economy. Unsurprisingly, the Grand National and Cheltenham Festival bring in a sizeable chunk each year and in 2017, it was thought that more than £3.7 billion was generated.
5. Jockeys in the UK are becoming few and far between, with roughly 450 professional jockeys registered here. There are also 300 amateur jockeys registered but Britain needs more!
6. The average thoroughbred racehorse weighs 450kg or 1,000lbs. Sounds a lot, but such horses are bred to race so they are in fact more agile and streamlined to compete.
7. When it comes to British racing, there are five classics which are in fact the most prestigious throughout the UK. The 1,000 and 2,000 Guineas, The Oaks, The Derby and The St Ledger. All races are run annually.
8. Some of the most successful British horses have gone onto to earn worldwide acclaim. They include Red Rum, Best Mate, Yeats, Arkle, Shergar and Desert Orchid to name but a few.
9. Despite many of the big events being broadcast on TV, the best way to soak up the atmosphere of British racing is to attend in person. Even for those who aren’t the biggest racing fans, a day at the races provides an alternate view to one of the oldest sports in the world.
10. Staying on the subject of TV, the Grand National was the first ever horse racing event to be televised and draws in millions of viewers to this day. It’s reported that over 600 million people tuned into to watch the Aintree spectacular in 2017.
11. According to Racing Better, the first official race in the UK came way back in 1174 – some 845 years ago! Unfortunately for the winners, no trophies were awarded at the time.
If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here!
Bang On Casino
