Can you imagine a place where the thrill of horse racing, the charm of colonial history, and the vibrant spirit of Mauritius all converge? It’s right in front of you, the Champ de Mars Racecourse, a historic gem that has witnessed the island’s transformation.
Nestled at the foot of picturesque hills, the Champ de Mars Racecourse is a testament to the enduring legacy of horse racing in Mauritius. It was in 1812 that the Mauritius Turf Club, the oldest horse-racing club in the Southern Hemisphere, inaugurated this iconic racetrack. Since then, the Champ de Mars has been the heart of racing in Mauritius, a place where spectators have gathered for generations, and the air vibrates with excitement and anticipation on race days. The course, with its selective right-hand oval path and a circumference of 1,298 meters, is a sight to behold.
The Champ de Mars wasn’t just about racing; it was a symbol of unity. After the British conquered Mauritius in 1810, the founders of the Mauritius Turf Club sought to bring the French and English communities together. They believed that horse racing would foster a sense of camaraderie. The new governor, Sir Robert Farquhar, even actively supported the organization of these races.
The Champ de Mars has also played a crucial role in showcasing the nation’s independence. In 1968, when Mauritius gained independence, the racecourse became the stage for the flag hoisting ceremony. It has become a tradition for decades, with the annual celebration of the accession to independence.
Today, the Champ de Mars attracts tens of thousands of people on each race day, during the racing season, from late March to early December. It isn’t just a place for horse racing; it’s a meeting place for racing enthusiasts from all over the island and even from abroad. The Champ de Mars is the ultimate symbol of the Mauritian spirit, a place where unity, passion, and celebration come together.