At the foot of Fort Adelaide, the Champ de Mars was used as a military training ground before being transformed into a racing hippodrome on the 25th June 1812, allowing the English administrators and French land owners to finally share a hobby.

Nowadays it is one of the most popular spots for locals and during the months of May and November it’s bedlam! The locals are avid gamblers (called zougaderes here!) and they love their horse racing every Saturday, they chat about it all week! From 10am onwards, the Champ de Mars fills up and the first race only starts at 12.30pm!

Among the old favourites, the three horses that stand out are:

 One for the road (the 2006 champion with 6 consecutive wins)
 Tabascorez (rising star)
 Yankee Bell (An old favourite of the public and the stables mascot)

For the jockeys

 Paul Witmore
 Raj Joorawon

At the Champs de Mars, social and cultural differences are cast aside, the frenzy of betting, the stands groaning with men, Bookies making a fortune, the small market stall holders selling their peanuts, curries, stews and dholl puris...but as soon as the horses are in the stands ready, all attention is on the race with screams of encouragement as they reach the finishing line. In the members and in the private boxes, the screams are less loud and expressive and the ladies are dressed to the nines with their stunning hats.

The four classics races are:

 The Duchess of York Cup
 The Barbe Cup
 The Duke of York cup
 And most important the Maiden Cup which is the only race taking place on a Sunday (rather than Saturday) in September. It is the most physical race of 2400m where the horses run twice round. Approximately 100 000 people come to watch the Maiden Cup.

THE CROWN LODGE

In order for you to come to the races in the best possible conditions, the crown lodge is a private VIP box situated with views directly on the track. You will be accompanied with professionals for the day (12pm – 5pm) and if you’re lucky you may even get a few tips! Cold drinks and snacks are served and the atmosphere is relaxed. Dress code is smart.