Horse racing is a special place that combines sport with different cultures around the world, which is far beyond the more well-known cultural implementations at some of the world’s biggest events. Some of these races and festivals are deeply rooted in local histories, while others are significant in community identity and celebration of culture. Whether it is the sheer spectacle of unusual races or the way communities gather to honour their equine heritage, there is far more to explore than most people expect. Whether it be the shores of Virginia or even the plains of Mongolia, there are plenty of unique and quirky customs around the world. Some fans may partake in betting on Cheltenham races, but there are plenty more raceday activities and traditions that can be discovered, which add an element of identity to what is an incredibly historic sport.
Melbourne Cup Fashion, Australia
At the Melbourne Cup in Australia, much of the atmosphere comes from the crowds as much as the races. Many people head to Flemington not just to watch the horses but to dress up in their best outfits. Fashions on the Field has been part of the event for decades, and participants compete for prizes based on creativity and flair. Some wear bold hats, others choose elegant dresses or sharp suits. It has become a way for people to express their personal style and be part of the carnival feel around one of Australia’s biggest sporting days.
Ban’ei Racing, Japan
In northern Japan, Ban’ei racing offers something quite unlike the gallops seen on most tracks. Held at Obihiro in Hokkaido, huge draft horses pull heavy sleds along a straight track, negotiating sand and two slopes along the way. Here, power and endurance matter far more than sheer speed. Jockeys ride atop the sleds and encourage their horses forward with voice and light reins. The sport began as a way for farmers to judge strong workhorses, and today it remains a draw for people curious about this rare test of strength rather than speed.
Chincoteague Pony Swim, USA
Every summer on the Virginia coast, wild ponies make one of the most unusual journeys in equestrian traditions. Known as the Pony Swim, the event sees herds guided across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island under the watchful eye of local riders. Once ashore, many of the younger ponies are auctioned off the next day to support the volunteer fire company and manage herd numbers. The tradition has been going on since the 1920s and remains a highlight of the season for locals and visitors alike.
Mongolian Naadam Festival, Mongolia
Across the wide open plains of Mongolia, horse racing forms a central part of the Naadam Festival, a celebration that also includes wrestling and archery. These races are very different from short track gallops; they often cover long distances across the steppe. Many of the jockeys are young riders who show remarkable poise and skill without saddles. For Mongolians, the races are not just a sport. They are a way of life, honouring centuries of nomadic culture and the deep partnership between people and their horses.
Steeplechase With Obstacles, UK & Ireland
In Ireland and the UK, steeplechase races have a long history rooted in countryside challenges. Horses and riders have to take on fences, ditches, and even water jumps that test the horses further than your average jump race. The name itself comes from early church steeples, where reuters used the landscape, rather than built-up tracks, to test their abilities. In today’s events, it keeps the tradition alive and offers an alternative test for riders and horses to avoid obstacles, drawing a lot of attention from crowds.
Furlongs and Festivities, India
In parts of India such as Rajasthan, horse racing often arrives with a festival atmosphere that brings communities together. Alongside the races, the atmosphere is one of the big parts of the festival, providing music and vibrant costumes that showcase the local culture and history. The horses are central to the region and have been for several generations, using these events to showcase these traditions as well as the sport itself. Spectators, both local and visiting, gather at fairgrounds or temporary tracks, taking in the sights, sounds,s and energy that make these occasions truly unforgettable.
Nighttime Races, United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, racing under lights has become a distinctive experience. The tracks are bordered by floodlights, which allow for the events to be run after sunset, turning the desert night into an atmosphere that is like no other in horse racing. This style of racing blends the modernisation of technology and capabilities of the modern day with the history of the sport, as well as the region’s long relationship with equestrian activities. Evening races offer a cooler, more comfortable time for both horses and spectators, and the dramatic lighting adds to the sense of occasion.
