How to enjoy a day at the races – A Beginner’s Horse Racing Guide

There is little to rival a day at the races. As you enter the world of horse racing you will find that there are betting opportunities which you can find with these horse racing previews, more extensive and more exciting than you will find in any other sport. Additionally, a day at the races is a social event, and many enthusiasts will tell you that they enjoy chatting, laughing and drinking as much as they enjoy betting (well, almost). Many companies choose a day at the races as their annual outing because it offers a chance to come together, to enjoy the fun and to bond over bets and bank rolls. If you haven’t been to the races before, then the whole experience can seem a little overwhelming.We are here to help as we show you how to enjoy a day at the races with our beginner’s horse racing guide.

Learn the Lingo

When it comes to the races, there will be a whole host of words flying around that you have never heard of. To prevent your head from getting into a spin, get yourself a glossary before you attend, and you will soon know (or at least look like you know) what you are talking about. If you have a friend who is interested in the horses, a chat would be a good idea!

Betting Types

There are a lot of different betting types when it comes to the horses. There are bets that you place before the big day, and there are also bets that are placed on the day. As a beginner, you are probably looking to bet on the day. Take a close look at what you are betting on. You might choose to bet on the winner, the top three places, the loser – there is no end to what you can put your money on when it comes to options at the races. However you bet, make sure that you have fun and keep within your limits in order to enjoy the day.

Racing Program

Each event that you go to will have an event program that lists the races for the day. You will also find information about the meet and the competitors alongside some interesting interviews and articles. Don’t forget to get your copy as it will prove to be an invaluable resource during the day.

Race Types

There are two main types of race that take place in the UK. There is the flat race – horses run down a curved track and the first to pass the finish line in the winner. Then, there’s National Hunt racing – a race during which the competitors must navigate obstacles. Knowing which type of race you are betting on might not seem all that important when you are just betting for the first time. However, knowing the difference will certainly help you to look like you know what you are talking about when you find yourself amidst the betting banter.


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