ENGLISH TEXTS lenging in Europe. It’ s often compared to Auteuil for its numerous natural obstacles. Significant renovations were carried out in 2023 to upgrade and secure some jumps, under the leadership of president Mario Pirone. The track’ s main event is the Gran Premio di Merano, a Group 1 race for horses aged four and older. Held in late September, it spans 5,000 meters on the steeplechase course, with a purse of € 250,000. It’ s now the unmissable event of Italian jump racing. Many French trainers make the trip, especially for the Group races. Among the most successful are Guillaume Macaire and Czech trainer Josef Vana, both renowned for their achievements in Merano. But Merano is more than just high-level competition. Throughout the season, it hosts a variety of events that appeal to a broad audience. Family days offer children’ s entertainment, equestrian shows, and fun-filled activities.
Chester: The Oldest Racecourse in the World Still in Operation Founded in 1539, the first official races were held here during the reign of Henry VIII, as a replacement for cockfighting, which had just been banned. This is how Roodee Racecourse came to be, along the banks of the River Dee. The site of Chester was once a Roman walled city called Deva Victrix. The Roodee( the name of the racecourse) may have been
used for public or sporting events even before 1539, further adding to its historical aura. On the track stands a small stone cross: the Roodee Stone. According to legend, it marks the spot where a Welsh princess died during a procession, the victim of a riding accident. Some say the place is cursed … but jockeys still ride there without hesitation! Another unique feature of Chester is the location of part of the grandstand— but most notably, the parade ring, which, unusually, is located in the center of the track. Chester is known for its lively, civic, and festive atmosphere: it’ s a popular destination for stag parties and society outings. Spectators dress elegantly, and on race days, the entire city takes on the air of a carnival. As for racing, several Group and Listed events are held here each year: the Chester Vase( Gr. 3), Ormonde Stakes( Gr. 3), Cheshire Oaks( L), and Dee Stakes( L). Although technically just a handicap, the Chester Cup is one of the most legendary races on the British racing calendar.
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RACE- COURSES, WHERE EVENTS HAPPEN
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RACECOURSES: THE OTHER STADIUMS OF MUSIC
By Serge Okey
In summer, music either follows or blends with the sound of hooves on racecourses. These vast venues offer tremendous open space and an ideal setting, perfectly matching the scale of festivals and other giant concerts throughout the year. From Vincennes to Clairefontaine, via Nancy and the Côte d’ Azur, racecourses like to present themselves under a unifying slogan:“ Much more than a racecourse.” In today’ s context, arenas dedicated to horse racing have every reason to diversify their activities. And it’ s no coincidence that two of the biggest festivals in France, Solidays and Lollapalooza, have just taken over— or are preparing to take over— ParisLongchamp.
The Biggest Stars at ParisLongchamp The third-largest music event in France, behind Les Vieilles Charrues and Hell-
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