Racing fans are truly spoilt for choice, with such a broad number of courses situated all around the world. Many of these tracks can boast stunning surroundings as well as an unmissable atmosphere and are likely to be on the bucket-list of any sports enthusiast.
#1. Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Surrounded by skyscrapers, visiting Happy Valley is a truly unique experience. There is a high quality of racing on show as well every type of food and drink imaginable. Entry is just $10 and visitors can opt to upgrade to the members’ area or book a meal in the restaurant that overlooks the stunning racetrack. The course is lit by the high-rise buildings which tower above the venue, and every Wednesday night there is a lively and fun atmosphere that attracts a large number of regulars. Visiting this course is the zenith for racegoers in the Southern Hemisphere and continues to attract huge crowds on a weekly basis.
#2. Santa Anita, USA
Often called the ‘most beautiful racetrack in the world’, California’s Santa Anita is simply a must-visit. Starting on Boxing Day each year, there are a huge amount of race-days taking place throughout the year with a number of high-quality stakes races staged on a regular basis during the season. The San Gabriel mountains offer a perfectly peaceful back-drop to the course which also offers an extremely laid-back feel. The resplendent panoramic view is available from both the art-deco grandstand and the restaurant which provides top-class catering every single race night.
#3. Cheltenham, UK
Situated in Gloucestershire, Cheltenham Racecourse is the home of jump racing in the UK. 261,000 visitors descended on the leafy track over the course of the four-day festival back in 2016 and visitors can see some of the world’s greatest national hunt stars taking to the turf. Unfortunately, not all forecast runners make it to the festival with the ever-popular Thistlecrack set to miss a second successive event through injury and as Oddschecker explain, this has already affected a large number of ante-post bets. Those who wish to wait until the action gets underway can place bets at the track ahead of each race on the card and visitors will be able to follow the progress their charge from the iconic Cheltenham grandstand or restaurant.
#4. Flemington, Australia
This Australian natural heritage site is one of the most picturesque racecourses in the world. It can house up to 120,000 visitors and is home to the world-famous Melbourne Cup which is one of the biggest betting events of the year and was won by rekindling back in November 2017. The track has a rich history and tours are frequently available. Flemington has an unrivalled atmosphere with live music and entertainment. The track is also handily situated for tourists with Melbourne’s excellent transport system taking visitors straight to the racecourse on a regular basis.
#5. Meydan, Dubai
Meydan is the newest track on this list but has already carved out a reputation as being an essential destination for all racing fans. 60,000 spectators fill the main grandstand on a regular basis with the course staging some of the richest race-days on the calendar. The whole complex is mightily impressive and those who fancy splashing out can upgrade to VIP or high-roller memberships or even book a stay at the five-star hotel which is situated within the walls of the racetrack.
Going racing is a wonderful experience and many attendees are bitten by the bug at an early age. Every country has a standout course but these five have to be amongst the world’s finest and should be high on any sports fan’s to-do list.
