Epsom Derby: know points on horse racing history

Read on and understand the history of horse racing ahead of the event at Epsom Racecourse this weekend

11:07 30 May 2013

The Derby at Epsom Racecourse is nearly upon us! As Investec Ladies' Day is being held on Friday, 31st May, and Investec Derby Day on Saturday, 1st June, this year.

Horse racing is an equestrian sport that has a long, interesting history. Various records show that this sport, which has been practiced in various forms for many years, supposedly started in Egypt, Syria, Babylon, and Greece.

Horse racing, which featured a chariot pulled behind the horse, was a huge part of the ancient Greek Olympics.

Thoroughbred racing is popular with royalty of British society and aristocrats. Back in the days it was apparently branded as the “Sport of Kings”.

Today, when talking about horse racing, most people would think about “flat racing.” This refers to the typical race on a synthetic surface or flat dirt lawn, usually on an oval racetrack. Horses are being guided by their jockeys to cross the finish line.

Chariot races, on the other hand, were more popular ancient Roman and Greek sports. These races were dangerous, and many times resulted in serious injury or even death. This is one of the reasons why the sport seemed to always generate strong spectator enthusiasm.

Equestrians are huge factors in horse racing. They must possess excellent horsemanship and certain skills in order to help their horses win the race. Horse racing, which is always a form of competition, requires the skills of both horse and rider.