What’s the oldest continually running horse race in the world?
You may think something at Ascot or Aintree but you’d be wrong! Instead you have to head to the top of the Yorkshire Wolds in East Yorkshire to a tiny place called Kiplingcotes. Here a flat horse race has been run since 1519 when Henry VIII was King of England!
Continually running – because as legend has it, should the race not run then it can never be run again. This has meant when weather or disease, such as the covid pandemic, means it is impractical or even impossible to race, then a single horse has been led round the course to ensure its future.
Taking place on the 3rd Thursday in March, it is not on a formal course but instead a 4-mile route along farm tracks. Horses of any ages can be ridden and there are no formal entry conditions, just turn up to race on the day. First prize is £50 but the rider finishing second receives the remainder of the entrance fees meaning that it is often more profitable to come second than first!
This year it is taking place on 21st March so why not come along (its free to be a spectator) and enjoy the gorgeous countryside at the same time.
Article contributed by Sarah Milne-Day https://experience-yorkshire.com/
