Horse racing in the United Kingdom is a sport with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Since then, this form of competition has become firmly rooted in British culture, with each event becoming an important part of the country’s social calendar. The 2024 season has been busy, offering several major meetings and festivals, each of which attracts not only spectators but also those who place bets on race outcomes. This year, a number of major fixtures have already taken place, drawing thousands of spectators and generating substantial income for bookmakers.
Major British Meetings in 2024
- Cheltenham Festival (12–15 March) – One of the main events for National Hunt racing
- Grand National (11–13 April) – The most famous steeplechase in the world, attracting millions of viewers
- Royal Ascot (18–22 June) – A prestigious meeting where aristocracy and sporting elites meet
- The Derby Festival – One of the oldest and most prestigious flat racing events
- Ebor Festival (21–24 August, York) – One of the oldest festivals, known for the Ebor Handicap. It is a key event for racing in northern England
- St. Leger Festival (12–15 September, Doncaster) – A four-day event culminating in the famous St. Leger Stakes, the final part of the Triple Crown
- Christmas Festival (26–27 December, Kempton Park) – A celebration for National Hunt racing enthusiasts, including the prestigious King George VI Chase and other important races
Betting on Racing: History, Rules, and Opportunities
Horse racing and betting are inseparable from each other. There is a belief that these competitions were created to facilitate betting opportunities. Considering that bookmakers’ investments constitute the main portion of profits in this sport, this theory is plausible. Nowadays, as racing has ceased to be an entertainment exclusive to a narrow circle of aristocrats, and sports betting services have moved online, placing bets on elite horses and their jockeys has become no more difficult than playing at bingo sites in the UK or online casino sites.
Betting on horse racing in the UK is a tradition loved by both novice and experienced punters. The most popular types of bets include:
- Win – A bet on the horse that will finish first
- Each-Way – A bet on the horse to win or to place in the top positions
- Accumulators and Combination Bets – Predicting the outcomes of several races in one bet
Modern bookmakers, such as William Hill, offer players the opportunity not only to place real-time bets on races but also to utilise advanced options to enhance their chances of success. Moreover, online casinos, many of which have dedicated sections solely for racing, further expand the range of betting types and opportunities to try one’s luck.
Odds for races fluctuate based on the horse’s form, track conditions, and other factors influencing the outcome. This year, the list of entrants is already taking shape, and therefore bookmakers are offering ante post odds for races at the Christmas Festival.
For the King George VI Chase this year, favourites include Il Est Francais at odds of 9/4 and Gaelic Warrior at 6/1, but less obvious horses like last year’s winner Hewick and Stage Star (odds 16/1) could also surprise. Attention should also be given to Bravemansgame, the winner in 2022. Amongst many bettors list of favourites for the race would have been Nicky Henderson’s Shishkin; however, the ten-year-old unfortunately suffered a fatal injury back in April.
Kempton Park Festival: A Christmas Adventure
Horse racing in the UK is divided into two main types: flat racing and jump racing. The former involves races on a level track without any obstacles, while the latter includes fences or hurdles. Each format has its own characteristics and attracts different participants, including jockeys, trainers, and horse owners, as well as millions of fans and betting enthusiasts.
One of Britain’s oldest racecourses, Kempton Park, has facilities to host all types of racing. Established in 1878, Kempton is located just 16 miles from London and attracts thousands of spectators thanks to its unique combination of racing traditions and modern conveniences. The racecourse is equipped with a synthetic track for year-round flat racing and is even lit for evening meetings. However, the Christmas Festival is the main jewel of the season, bringing together the best jump jockeys and horses.
The annual Ladbrokes Christmas Festival is held on 26 and 27 December. On the first day, the course will host the King George VI Chase, where spectators can watch the best three-mile chasers in training. These races are known for their intensity, and their outcomes are often unpredictable. The three-mile race with 18 obstacles, first run in 1937, has seen legends such as Kauto Star and Desert Orchid emerge as winners. Winners of this race often become true stars, and this year’s participants promise to make the race just as thrilling.
As mentioned above, among the favourites for 2024 are Il Est Francais at odds of 9/4 and Gaelic Warrior at 6/1, but Bravemansgame (14/1), 2022 winner and last year’s runner-up, should not be overlooked.
On the following day, 27 December, racing enthusiasts will be able to watch more big contests such as the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase and the Desert Orchid Chase, named after legendary chasers.
The Spirit of Christmas with a Touch of Thrill
In addition to the atmosphere of racedays, where nobility and celebrities gather, horse racing offers a good dose of adrenaline by placing bets on the runners. The main difference between sports betting and other forms of gambling is that you can use your knowledge of those taking part and the conditions they are competing under. There are only the contestants and their will to succeed, and a bit of Christmas magic that might help you win a small gift for the holiday. In reality, the gift could be the journey itself. Alongside the races, you can visit Sunbury-on-Thames, explore historic buildings and exhibits at the local museum, or, weather permitting, take a stroll through the Christmas market and pick up trinkets for gifts for your loved ones.
If you prefer to stay cosy at home, you can watch the races through text broadcasts on online casinos or bookmaker websites such as William Hill.
After all, everyone has their own view of Christmas traditions.