All set for the oldest races

RIDERS in Spain´s oldest series of horse races are once more under starters’ orders!

From Friday to Sunday between 25,000 – 35,000 spectators a day are expected to line the beach of Sanlucar de Barrameda, Cadiz, to watch and bet as horses race along the sand inches from the Mediterranean at low tide, starting from the mouth of the Guadalquivir River at dusk.

Race timings are not announced until the day, as they depend on the number of competitors and the low tide.

The floodlit races – dating back to 1845 – are held over two weekends, with the second series this weekend following the first at the start of the month.

For the first time this year the races have been declared a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest of Spain.

Main prize money this year will be on Sunday when €13,600 will be at stake in the Gran Premio Cuidad de Sanlucar event.

As well as getting the opportunity to see leading top jockeys in action, spectators – mostly from Cadiz and Anbalucia  but some from other parts of Spain and abroad – are also attracted by other activities including football matches, shows and workshops, which are held in conjunction with the races.

Entrance to the 20,000m2 area where the races are held is free.