|
Chester Racecourse: Exciting Action in England's Oldest Racecourse!
 Chester Racecourse, known as the Roodee, is according to official records the oldest racecourse still in use in England. Horse racing at Chester dates back to the early 16 th century. Chester Racecourse has views of the city walls, the River Dee and the Welsh Hills. At 239 yards, Chester Racecourse also provides the shortest straight in the country.
The site of present-day Chester Racecourse was once a harbour called Deva during the Roman settlement of the city during the Dark Ages.
Chester Racecourse holds races in about 15 dates throughout the year. Some of the biggest stakes racing events held at Chester Racecourse are:
- Cheshire Oaks
- Chester Cup
- Chester Vase
- Dee Stakes
- Huxley Stakes
- Ormonde Stakes
Chester Racecourse attendance averages about 18,000 visitors each at its race meetings. The July meeting at Chester Racecourse, held over 2 days, is one of the most well-liked racing events of the summer.
Chester Racecourse Description:
Chester Racecourse has a course that's just over 1 mile long, flat and raced anti-clockwise or left-handed. The main characteristic of the course is the very short straight (239 yards). As such, long-strided horses, which perform better on straights, are at a distinct disadvantage. Horses that draw low draw and give a fast start usually have a distinct advantage in sprints.
Chester Racecourse Facilities:
-
The County Stand Enclosure at Chester Racecourse gives the public access to the Paddock, Winners Enclosure and Parade Ring area. This exclusive enclosure offers magnificent views of the racecourse and excellent facilities.
-
The Tattersalls Enclosure offers superb views of the entirety of Chester Racecourse. There are a variety of bars and catering outlets selling food and snacks on two floors of this stand. Holders of Tattersalls Badges also have access to the Paddock and Parade Ring area, where both The Pavilion Bar and The Champagne Bar are situated.
-
The Dee Stand can enjoy a wide variety of snacks and drinks.
-
The Open Course Enclosure is ideal for picnics, there are also bars and fast food outlets in this enclosure.
Chester Racecourse Historical Background:
- There has been racing at the Roodee at Chester for around 450 years.
- The site of present-day Chester Racecourse was formerly the home of the original Chester Midsummer Watch Parade, temporarily banned by Oliver Cromwell but finally abolished in 1677.
| 
UK
US
CAN
AUS
HK
