Ascot Racecourse, Sydney facts for kids
Ascot Racecourse was a special place in Sydney, Australia, where horse races took place a long time ago. It was located in the southern suburb of Mascot, right next to where Sydney Airport is today. The racecourse got its name from the famous Royal Ascot Racecourse in the United Kingdom.
This racecourse was open for many years, from 1904 until 1941. It was one of four places in Sydney where people could watch exciting horse races that were not officially registered. Today, the land where Ascot Racecourse once stood is part of Sydney Airport.
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A Look Back at Ascot Racecourse
How People Visited the Races
When the racecourse was open, many people would come to watch the races. Large crowds traveled to and from Ascot Racecourse using a special tramline. This tramline connected the racecourse directly to Botany Road, making it easy for everyone to attend the events.
A Historic Flight Takes Off
Ascot Racecourse was not just for horses! It also played a part in aviation history. On May 5, 1911, the very first airplane flight over Sydney took off from this racecourse. A pilot named J.J. Hammond flew his Boxkite plane, making history right there at Ascot.
Closing Down and What Happened Next
The racecourse closed its doors during World War II. At that time, the land was used as a military camp to help with the war effort. After the war ended, the racecourse did not reopen. Instead, it was taken down to make space for the growing Sydney Airport.
What Remains of Ascot Racecourse Today
Even though the racecourse is gone, there is still a small reminder of its past. Fifteen old fig trees used to line the entrance to the racecourse. These trees are still standing today! You can find them near the airport's long-term carpark. These special trees are now protected because they are an important part of the area's history.
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