travel > Destinations > africa > Mauritius > Champ de Mars Racecourse

Champ de Mars Racecourse

TIME : 2016/2/16 18:09:22

This racecourse was a military training ground until the Mauritius Turf Club was founded in 1812, making it the second-oldest racecourse in the world. Mauritian independence was proclaimed here in 1968. Within the racecourse stands a statue of King Edward VII by the sculptor Prosper d'Épinay, and the Malartic Tomb , an obelisk to a French governor.

The racing season lasts from around April to late November, with meetings usually held on a Saturday or Sunday. The biggest race of all is the Maiden Cup in September. If you're here on a race day, it's well worth joining the throng of betting-crazy locals. Tickets for the stands and loges range from Rs 50 to Rs 100, but admission to the rest of the ground is usually free. For race dates, contact the Mauritius Turf Club or check the local media.