Written on : 28 October 2019 By : Melchior Burin des Roziers
Horse racing is indeed the most popular sporting activity in Mauritius. At the heart of this equestrian culture: the Champ de Mars, east of Port Louis. Let's discover this 200-year-old racecourse that brings together horse lovers, Mauritian bettors and curious travellers in a very lively atmosphere.
Built in 1812 to create a space for relaxation and collaboration between the French and the English, the Champ de Mars remains the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere and the second oldest in the world after Turkey. As soon as the work was completed, it was inaugurated by Colonel Edward Alured Draper, who at the same time created the "Mauritius Turf Club" and launched the first horse race on the island, which was enthusiastically welcomed by the public.
Since then, the track has been trodden by many champions, such as jockeys Glen Hatt, Jeffrey Loyld or Christophe Soumillon as well as by mythical horses: Altaturk, Noble Salute, Disa Leader, The Cardinal, Il Saggiatore or Ice Axe. It can be said that the Champ de Mars has become, over the years, an incredible establishment.
It is said that its track is famous for having traps that make it difficult for riders, such as the slope that appears before the finish or narrow curves.
The heart of the nation
The Champ de Mars is a key element of Mauritian life since it has gathered thousands of inhabitants in each race for more than 200 years. Men and their wives can then take out their most beautiful costumes and take their places in private lodges. Horse lovers can find themselves in the craze of the show and merchants are on the lookout for the slightest shopping desires.
You will find racing season from March to December: Duchess of York Cup, Duke of York Cup, Duke of York Cup, Barbé Cup, etc. but above everything, Maiden Cup is the biggest of all and held in September. Towards the end of the equestrian calendar, an international weekend brings jockeys together from all over the world.
Races are generally held on Saturdays (also on Sundays during major races), from 12:00 to 17:00. The 8 races of the day are held every 35 minutes. On average, 10 thoroughbred horses compete against each other, with 20,000 frantically cheering spectators.
All these events when taking place have an impact that goes beyond the Field of Mars alone. As you can see all over the island: in all gaming offices, on street corners, in shops: from bus drivers to taxi drivers to restaurant owners: Mauritians turn on their radios, televisions or eagerly read their newspapers to find out the outcome of the race.
If you have the opportunity, take advantage of the Champ de Mars to immerse yourself in Mauritian culture!
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