Thailand is one of the most popular locations for international visitors annually, with millions even looking to move to the exotic country and start a new life in Asia.
However, for many, it means a whole new way of life, as those with sporting interests will need to find new passions due to the complete shift in the sporting landscape.
The time difference between Thailand and many western countries also means that it is challenging to watch horse racing action in the United States or Europe. But, for those living in Thailand, it could be important to note that there is a history of racing in the country.
Early History
Horse racing in Thailand dates back to 1897, as the sport was adopted by King Chulalongkorn following a visit to Europe. During his period overseas, the king visited various racecourses around the continent, and experienced the excitement that could be matched back in his home country.
Soon after his return, groundwork was put in place for the foundations of racing tracks such as the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and the Royal Turf Club. The former was opened in 1901, before the latter was formally opened to the public 15 years later.
After tracks were opened, there was an immediate catering to a western audience, as betting was allowed due to it being a civilised activity. This was a rarity in Thailand, as betting on virtually every other sport was outlawed. A period of success followed in Thailand throughout the 1920s, which led to a growth among different social groups.
However, the government looked to halt the success that was being achieved by racecourses in Thailand’s capital in 1949, as it was ordered that racing couldn’t take place more than once in the area.
Recent Decline
Despite enjoying early promise, horse racing was in decline in Thailand throughout the 20th century. The experience at the racecourse declined due to limited improvements being made at the tracks, while illegal gambling within the country rose in prominence.
Several racecourses underwent changes in ownership in the 1990s, with many repurposed for other things. One of the most notable signs of the sport’s decline arrived in 2018 when the Royal Turf Club in Bangkok officially closed down.
Despite this, there is still a cult following for the sport in the most day, and six of the eight traditional venues for racing remain in operation. These can be located across the nation in areas such as in Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Roi Et, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
Royal Bangkok Sports Club
The most famous horse racing venue remains the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, which was the first to officially open in the early 1900s. As well as being a notable venue for horse racing, it is also the oldest golf course in the city. However, it lacks the social element that racecourses in the west have, as it remains one that is largely focused on those of high society.
However, the venue has been at the heart of the sporting shift in the city, as it has state-of-the-art facilities that aren’t found anywhere else in Bangkok. It also offers facilities to watch foreign sports events, so you can watch the Kentucky Derby. You can check the current favorites here: https://www.twinspires.com/kentuckyderby/odds/
An Olympic sized swimming pool was opened at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club in 1933, becoming the first in Thailand.
The sports pavilion was added in the late 1970s, and this was later named the Rajkreetha Sports Complex in 2005. Other major sports at the venue include the Bangkok Riding and Polo Club, which was picked up by the RBSC following the closure of its former home nearby.
Notable Races
The racing calendar in Thailand remains stacked despite its dwindling popularity in the area. Nang Loeng Racecourse typically hosted the significant events on the schedule prior to its closure. Races would be staged at the venue every other Sunday afternoon, working in unison with the RBSC.
However, unlike the other course in Bangkok, all visitors were welcome as long as they were over the age of 20.
The vast majority of the audience would be between 45 and 80, and smoking and drinking from the stands were common sights. It was at Nang Loeng that most of the prominent races would be staged throughout the season.
The first of those came in the form of the Derby Cup, which was staged annually in January. That would be followed by the President Cup in June and the season-ended Ramraghob Cup in November.
International Success
It could be argued that the vast majority of Thai success was actually achieved overseas, with the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha-owned King Power Racing.
The group has achieved over 200 wins on the flat across Europe, with their most important winner coming in October 2019.
It was a poignant success for Donjuan Triumphantin the G1 British Champions Stakes, as arrived 12 months after Srivaddhanaprabha’s tragic death following Leicester City’s clash with West Ham United.
Keep an eye for more latest news & updates on Bangkok Tribune!
