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If you’re a horse lover or simply like to play the odds, then you’d be pleased to know that Malta also boasts a healthy horse-racing culture. Every Sunday equine enthusiasts gather at the Marsa Racing Course to cheer on their favourite horse or put their money where their mouths are and place the occasional wager on the results.
The racecourse was founded in the 19th Century by British Military and Naval officers along with some of the local gentry. By 1929, the Marsa Racing Course was seeing regular races taking place thanks to the importation of expertly trained racehorses from North Africa. However this hit a snag when most of these same horses had to be slaughtered during the Second World War.
Race meetings recommenced in December 1945 although when the British Armed Forces left the island, there was a sudden depletion of both horses as well as jockeys. Rather than put a halt to their newfound hobby, the Marsa Racing Club substituted the traditional horseback races for the new sulky races which saw drivers racing ponies while sitting on a lightweight two-wheeled cart reminiscent of the Roman chariot races.
The racetrack was reconstructed in 1981 and a grandstand for 2000 spectators was included as well as bars and shops to accommodate them. Apart from the local races, the Marsa Racing Course is also occasionally called upon to host international events such as the European Championship for Professional Drivers in 1998.
When visiting the Marsa Racing Course, you’re sure to succumb to the sheer enthusiasm that permeates the air. As you loudly cheer on your favourite horse amidst a crowd of screaming onlookers, you’ll be sampling a pure taste of raw Mediterranean passion.
For more information visit www.maltaracingclub.com
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