Latest news with #Prixdel'ArcdeTriomphe
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time Business News
Exploring the Popularity of Turf Racing
Horse racing has been a beloved sport for centuries, celebrated for its speed, elegance, and competitive spirit. Among the various types of horse racing surfaces dirt, synthetic, and turf racing stands out as one of the most prestigious and globally admired forms. Raced on natural grass, horse turf racing has become a fan favorite and an essential part of the international horse racing scene. But what exactly makes turf racing so popular? In this article, we dive into the rise in popularity of turf racing, what sets it apart, and why it continues to captivate audiences and participants around the world. Turf racing refers to horse racing conducted on grass tracks, unlike dirt or synthetic surfaces. Turf courses are known for their natural feel, picturesque aesthetics, and smooth footing for horses. These tracks can vary in length, shape, and incline, often adding a layer of tactical depth to each race. Popular in regions like Europe, Asia, Australia, and parts of North America, turf races host some of the most celebrated events in the sport's history. Turf racing is deeply rooted in the traditions of countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Ireland, where the sport evolved centuries ago. Iconic races such as the Epsom Derby, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, and Royal Ascot are run on grass, giving turf racing a high level of historical prestige. In regions where turf is the dominant racing surface, it's associated with elite competition, royal attendance, and classy presentation factors that elevate its image globally. There's no denying that turf tracks are visually stunning. The green backdrop, manicured landscapes, and natural setting provide a more appealing experience for spectators, both on site and watching many fans, turf racing offers a more traditional and sophisticated atmosphere compared to the gritty action of dirt tracks. From an animal welfare perspective, turf is generally considered a kinder surface for racehorses. The grass and softer ground help reduce the impact on a horse's legs and joints, lowering the risk of injury. While not without its own risks (especially on rain-soaked or yielding turf), this perceived safety contributes to turf's growing preference among trainers and owners. Turf racing is often less about raw speed and more about tactics, positioning, and timing. Horses need to navigate turns, varying track widths, and field congestion. This complexity creates races that are exciting to watch and rewarding to bet on. Jockeys must use strategic racecraft to win saving ground, judging pace, and timing the final run perfectly. This makes turf racing highly engaging for serious fans and punters. Many of the world's top breeding operations, such as Coolmore Stud, Godolphin, and Shadai Farm, focus heavily on turf bloodlines. As a result, the Thoroughbreds bred specifically for turf racing are often considered the crème de la crème of the sport. In addition, major trainers and owners from Europe, Japan, and Australia concentrate their efforts on turf racing, which further enhances its profile internationally. Turf racing is a cornerstone of horse racing in the UK, France, and Ireland. Nearly all flat races in these countries are run on grass, and the calendar includes world-renowned festivals like Royal Ascot, The Derby, and Arc Weekend. Japan has one of the most lucrative and competitive turf racing scenes in the world. Races like the Japan Cup attract global superstars. In Hong Kong, turf racing at Sha Tin and Happy Valley draws large pools and elite horses. Australian racing is also turf-dominated. Events such as the Melbourne Cup and Cox Plate are run on grass, offering rich prizes and a passionate fanbase. While traditionally a dirt racing country, the U.S. turf racing scene has grown significantly. Tracks like Belmont Park, Keeneland, and Santa Anita Park now host major turf races, including Breeders' Cup Turf events that draw international competition. Turf races often feature larger and more competitive fields, especially in Europe and Asia. For bettors, this means: More value in odds Greater potential for upsets Increased interest in form analysis and track conditions The influence of turf conditions, like firmness or softness, adds another layer of complexity, making turf racing a favorite for experienced punters seeking strategic depth. Turf racing has earned its place as one of the most exciting and prestigious forms of horse racing. With its rich history, strategic challenges, aesthetic beauty, and global popularity, it's no surprise that turf racing continues to captivate fans, breeders, and bettors alike. As the sport evolves, turf racing remains at the heart of some of the world's greatest racing moments and its future looks greener than ever. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Sport
- Time Business News
Top Turf Racetracks Around the World
Horse racing is a beloved sport with rich traditions spanning continents, but turf racing conducted on grass tracks adds a unique flavor of elegance, strategy, and prestige. Turf racetracks often host the most iconic races in the world, attracting elite horses, renowned jockeys, and massive audiences. In this article, we take a tour of the top turf racetracks around the world and explore horse race what makes each one a gem in the world of horse racing. Perhaps the most prestigious turf track in the world, Ascot is synonymous with royalty and tradition. Founded by Queen Anne, this racecourse hosts Royal Ascot, a five day event known for world class racing and high fashion. Turf conditions are meticulously maintained, offering an ideal surface for elite thoroughbreds. Famous Races: Royal Ascot King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes Queen Anne Stakes Longchamp is a picturesque turf venue with sweeping views of the Seine River. Known for its long straight and undulating course, it challenges both horse and jockey. It's best known for hosting the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, considered one of the greatest turf races in the world. Famous Races: Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Prix Ganay Poule d'Essai des Poulains & Pouliches Home to the iconic Melbourne Cup, Flemington Racecourse is Australia's premier turf racing venue. Its wide, sweeping turns and long straight allow for a fair race, even with large fields. The spring racing carnival at Flemington is a key highlight in the Southern Hemisphere. Famous Races: Melbourne Cup Victoria Derby Emirates Stakes Nicknamed the 'Racecourse of Racecourses,' Tokyo Racecourse is Japan's largest and most celebrated turf venue. It features an expansive track with multiple configurations for turf and dirt racing. The passionate fanbase and high-stakes racing make it a spectacle to behold. Famous Races: Japan Cup Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) Tenno Sho (Autumn) Though many U.S. races are run on dirt, Santa Anita Park is a standout for its turf course. With stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains, it provides a scenic backdrop for some of America's top turf races. Its turf layout complements European-style racing, attracting international competitors. Famous Turf Races: Breeders' Cup Turf (when hosted here) Shoemaker Mile American Oaks One of the most modern and luxurious racetracks in the world, Meydan features both dirt and turf tracks. The course hosts the Dubai World Cup Carnival, a high stakes event that attracts global attention. The turf course is fast, well kept, and designed for international competition. Famous Races: Dubai Turf Jebel Hatta Al Quoz Sprint As Ireland's most important flat racing venue, the Curragh is central to the Irish turf racing tradition. Its expansive course and rich history make it a favorite among European trainers and fans. It is home to the Irish Classics, including the Irish Derby. Famous Races: Irish Derby Irish 2000 Guineas Irish Oaks Sha Tin is a modern, world-class venue that plays a critical role in Asian turf racing. It combines high-stakes , electric crowds, and precision turf racing. International races like the Hong Kong Cup draw competitors from Europe, Japan, and Australia. Famous Races: Hong Kong Cup Queen Elizabeth II Cup Hong Kong Mile Woodbine features a unique E.P. Taylor Turf Course, known for its sweeping turns and long homestretch. It offers a variety of turf races and is an important venue for North American and international racing. Famous Races: Woodbine Mile Canadian International Northern Dancer Turf Stakes Veliefendi is Turkey's oldest and most iconic racetrack. It features a large turf course and has gained recognition for its international races. The International Racing Festival attracts top contenders from Europe and the Middle East. Famous Races: International Topkapi Trophy Bosphorus Cup Turf racetracks hold a special place in the world of horse racing. From the historic traditions of Ascot to the modern brilliance of Meydan, each track offers its own unique challenges and charm. Whether you're a bettor, breeder, or simply a fan, these top turf venues showcase the very best of global horse turf racing continues to grow in popularity across the globe, these tracks will remain at the heart of the sport's legacy, hosting thrilling finishes and unforgettable moments for generations to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Enable's half-sister disqualified after testing positive for ketamine traced to staff member
A female groom employed by John and Thady Gosden admitted using the drug three times a week when not at work in a case attributed to cross contamination A half-sister to dual Arc winner Enable has had her sole victory rubbed out after she tested positive for the recreational drug ketamine. Zilfee, trained by John & Thady Gosden and owned by Juddmonte, shares the same mother, Concentric, as the great Enable. Under Frankie Dettori, Enable earned more than £10 million, winning 11 Group 1 races including the Oaks, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes three times, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe twice, the Breeders' Cup Turf and Eclipse Stakes. Zilfee made her only start at Kempton in June 2024, winning a 1m4f maiden by a short head. The four-year-old filly has not raced since. However a post-race urine sample revealed the presence of ketamine, a prohibited substance on race day. Another sample taken from stablemate Morrophore after she finished sixth in a maiden at Yarmouth in July last year also gave an adverse finding for the drug. Subsequent out of competition hair samples taken from both horses in July demonstrated 'likely multiple low level exposures to ketamine over many months' in Zilfee's case and 'prolonged exposure' in respect of Morrophore, according to a BHA independent disciplinary panel report. The full details emerged after a BHA inspection of the Gosdens' stables in Newmarket in August found traces of ketamine in hair samples from four other horses. Morrophore's groom and work rider, employed at the yard between October 2023 and August 2024, admitted recreational ketamine use 'approximately three times a week", the report said. She did not look after Zilfee but that filly's groom had borrowed a kit bag used by Morrophore's handler to take her to the races at Kempton. The panel's report said the stable worker 'denied any direct administration of ketamine and believed that there was cross contamination as a result of not always washing her hands before coming to work'. She admitted that she had been taken through the induction procedure including the stable's substance misuse policy which highlighted the need to avoid cross contamination. The Gosdens both admitted breaches of the rules of racing though it was accepted they had no knowledge of the drug use in a yard and reasonable precautions were taken. A random drug and alcohol testing regime of staff has since been implemented at the yard. Panel chair Fiona Horlick KC imposed a £3,000 fine and ordered the disqualification of both horses.
North Wales Chronicle
05-07-2025
- Sport
- North Wales Chronicle
Estrange edges Lancashire Oaks verdict
The David O'Meara-trained Estrange had made a huge impression when landing the Group Three Lester Piggott Stakes over the course and distance in late May, with targets as lofty as the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe being mentioned in the aftermath. Carrying the colours of Cheveley Park Stud, the grey was a 2-7 favourite to follow up at Group Two level and while she managed to get the job done in the hands of Danny Tudhope, her supporters were made to sweat. 🔴🔵⚪️ Estrange beats Scenic & captures the @bet365 Lancashire Oaks in a thrilling tussle 👇🏻 — Haydock Park Races (@haydockraces) July 5, 2025 O'Meara told Racing TV: 'Danny was caught in a position where the leader (Love Talk) went off and it's a question of when do you go after them. 'Danny said she normally falls asleep in her races, but today she was trying to chase the leader a bit and didn't quite drop the bit and ended up in front then a long time. It isn't really how we'd like to play her, but it was a means to an end I guess. 'She's four from five now and she's won her Group Two today, so it's brilliant.' Just four runners went to post for the Merseyside feature, with rank outsider Love Talk taking the quartet along for much of the mile-and-a-half journey before Estrange was coaxed into the lead approaching the final two furlongs. However, James Doyle covered the move aboard Ed Walker's Scenic and following a final furlong tussle, Estrange found just enough to win the argument by a neck. While the victory was harder work than many expected, Paddy Power reacted by cutting the winner's Arc odds to 12-1 from 20-1. 'We were hoping we wouldn't turn up on good to firm so the drop of rain helped. I don't think she's absolutely reliant on heavy ground or anything like that, she just doesn't want to be running on very quick ground,' O'Meara added. 'The Yorkshire Oaks would be the next target and we've got five or six weeks until York. 'She's very relaxed, she's unbelievable. Today she wasn't as relaxed as she normally is because of the way the race developed, but it's fine.'
Leader Live
05-07-2025
- Sport
- Leader Live
Estrange edges Lancashire Oaks verdict
The David O'Meara-trained Estrange had made a huge impression when landing the Group Three Lester Piggott Stakes over the course and distance in late May, with targets as lofty as the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe being mentioned in the aftermath. Carrying the colours of Cheveley Park Stud, the grey was a 2-7 favourite to follow up at Group Two level and while she managed to get the job done in the hands of Danny Tudhope, her supporters were made to sweat. 🔴🔵⚪️ Estrange beats Scenic & captures the @bet365 Lancashire Oaks in a thrilling tussle 👇🏻 — Haydock Park Races (@haydockraces) July 5, 2025 O'Meara told Racing TV: 'Danny was caught in a position where the leader (Love Talk) went off and it's a question of when do you go after them. 'Danny said she normally falls asleep in her races, but today she was trying to chase the leader a bit and didn't quite drop the bit and ended up in front then a long time. It isn't really how we'd like to play her, but it was a means to an end I guess. 'She's four from five now and she's won her Group Two today, so it's brilliant.' Just four runners went to post for the Merseyside feature, with rank outsider Love Talk taking the quartet along for much of the mile-and-a-half journey before Estrange was coaxed into the lead approaching the final two furlongs. However, James Doyle covered the move aboard Ed Walker's Scenic and following a final furlong tussle, Estrange found just enough to win the argument by a neck. While the victory was harder work than many expected, Paddy Power reacted by cutting the winner's Arc odds to 12-1 from 20-1. 'We were hoping we wouldn't turn up on good to firm so the drop of rain helped. I don't think she's absolutely reliant on heavy ground or anything like that, she just doesn't want to be running on very quick ground,' O'Meara added. 'The Yorkshire Oaks would be the next target and we've got five or six weeks until York. 'She's very relaxed, she's unbelievable. Today she wasn't as relaxed as she normally is because of the way the race developed, but it's fine.'
