Preparing for a Day Out at the Races

Have you ever experienced the thrill of a horse race? Many people are avid fans of the sport, yet horse racing also attracts many casual spectators to its events. In Britain, huge gatherings attended by the royal family see people dressed head to tail in their finery for the day. When visiting in the US, you can take the glitz and glamour or simply have a relaxed day with friends. Below, we discuss how to prepare for a day at the races. 

Choosing an event 

The first step is to choose an event that you wish to attend. This will most likely be dictated by what courses are closest to you. However, if you do want to attend one of the big race meetings further afield it is possible. Just make sure you book tickets in advance and secure travel and accommodation. This can get booked up fast.  

Luckily, the biggest race in the US is in the south and is the Kentucky Derby. Taking place on the first Saturday in May every year, it is run at the Churchill Downs course in Louisville. A grade-one race, it attracts the best horses in the US and the world. Astonishingly, there is a prize pot of $2 million to be shared amongst the winners.  

Other big races include the Belmont Stakes, run in the hotter June month. This is the last race in what is known as the triple crown, which includes the Kentucky Derby and The Preakness Stakes. Few horses have won the three, but the ones that do immediately become the stuff of legend. There is lots of information to be found on the race at TwinSpires.com who also have great odds for betting on the Belmont Stakes and other US races. If you have not placed a bet before, step-by-step guides can assist you.  

Aside from these huge races, your local course will have other events as well. General race days are just as much fun, holding the pageantry and awe of a day out unlike any other. Check online to see which horseracing tracks are in your local area. Their websites should have plenty of information about what is happening at each event.  

Preparing for a day at the races 

When preparing for the races it will pay dividends if you can manage to do a little planning. Firstly, don’t make assumptions the southern weather will be hot and sunny. Different times of the year can throw up a lot of surprises so you should plan accordingly, being prepared for all types of meteorological eventualities. Even if it is good weather for the duration, bring a cover-up in case of emergencies.  

Next, check the dress code for the event itself. Some courses may have different visitor sections, so you may be able to go casual to one place or have to dress formally in another. You should also check the dress code if you have been invited. For example, you may be in a corporate box or have been invited to the owner’s enclosure. In these instances, it is more likely that you will have to dress formally.  

Aside from this, preparing for the races mainly involves selecting the horse you want to place a bet on. It is perfectly fine to pick them up on the day. Some people choose them randomly, based on the name of the horse or even the jockey’s colours. Others may prefer a more statistical approach. This involves looking at the horse’s form, which includes details on how it has run previously. Form can also be found for the jockey and even the trainer, to tell you who is doing well. Finally, go online and see what the professional tipsters are saying. They don’t guarantee a win but many of them know what they’re talking about and will be able to provide you with advice on the possible winners.  

What to wear to the races 

Once you know the dress code, you can begin to plan an outfit. For a Southern lady, classic Southern attire is a great way to go. It is a great excuse to get dressed up in your finery, with light but chic summer dresses. Floral prints and bright colours have been in style for some time, particularly if you are eventing in the summer months. Finish this off with a fascinator or hat that compliments the outfit.  

If you are taking a male friend or partner, then they will probably have to opt for a suit. A black tie is too formal, so something with a pattern or different colour scheme works well. In some instances, denim paired with a suit jacket and shoes will also come off as looking cool and stylish.  

Once your outfit and event are sorted, you can relax. The races always have great hospitality even if you don’t want to gamble. Sit in the sunshine, eat some great food and enjoy your day at this most unique of events.