Pre-race Information

Types of racing

Flat Racing - The Flat racing season (on Turf) goes from mid-March to mid-November, but the All Weather Tracks (AWT) race all year round.  Speed is the emphasis of the racing as there are no obstacles; because of this, the age of the horses is usually younger, starting at two years old. The distances of Flat race’s range from 5 furlongs (5/8 mile) to 20 furlongs (2.5 miles), on either All Weather Tracks (AWT) or turf (grass).

Jump Racing - Runs all year round but the majority of the races are run between November and the end of April.  Stamina is the emphasis of the racing, as the horse has to negotiate obstacles (hurdles or steeplechase jumps) over the minimum distance of two miles.  Because of this, the average age of the horse is higher.

What to Wear

In the 21th century, dress codes at racecourses are no longer as strict as it used to be.  All courses expect formal wear for ladies days and feature race meetings, but the rest of the fixture list is dependent on the specific course's dress code. Most courses will require a bit of walking on grass so suitable comfortable footwear is advised.

Which Enclosure

Each course has its own names for enclosures, but there are few standard enclosures courses use. 

The lower enclosures (e.g. centre, course, picnic, family and silver ring) do not require formal dress; casual dress code is acceptable in these enclosures.

The middle course enclosures (e.g. Tattersall's, grandstand and paddock) require smart casual, which is defined as: no jeans (smart jeans acceptable sometimes), no sportswear, no beach wear, no skimpy tops/vests and no trainers.

The higher enclosures (e.g. members, club, and premier) will require smart dress, which is defined as men wearing jacket and tie.

It is always advisable to check the requirements of each racecourse before attending.

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