Ascot Racecourse (Western Australia) facts for kids
Ascot grandstand
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| Location | Ascot, Western Australia |
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| Coordinates | 31°56′6″S 115°55′30″E / 31.93500°S 115.92500°E |
| Operated by | Perth Racing |
| Date opened | March 1848 |
| Screened on | Seven Network |
| Race type | Flat |
| Course type | Tri-oval |
| Notable races |
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Ascot Racecourse is a famous place in Perth, Western Australia. It's where exciting horse races happen! This big racecourse is about 8 kilometres east of the main city area of Perth. The main office for Perth Racing, the group that runs horse races, is right across the street.
Many people call Ascot Racecourse the "grand old lady" of Australian racecourses. This is because it's very old and important. The race track is 2 kilometres long. It has a special turf surface that drains water well. There's also a 300-metre uphill section. This part is known as a tough challenge for horses that run long distances.
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History of Ascot Racecourse
Horse racing has a long history at Ascot. In 1848, a horse race meeting took place. It was held on a farm called ‘Grove Farm’ by the Swan River. This farm belonged to J.W. Hardey.
Soon after this race, a permanent spot was chosen for a racecourse. This new spot was also on Hardey's land. This became what we know today as Ascot Racecourse. In 1852, the West Australian Turf Club was created. This club helped organize and run the races.
Later, in 1897, a railway line was built. This line went directly to the Racecourse. It made it easier for people to get to the races. However, the railway and its station were removed in 1957.
Exciting Races at Ascot
Ascot Racecourse hosts many important horse races. Some of these are called "Group races." These are the biggest and most famous races. They attract top horses and jockeys.
Here are some of the most important Group 1 races held at Ascot:
- Kingston Town Classic: This race is for horses aged three years and older. It's run over 1800 metres in December.
- Railway Stakes: Also for horses three years and older. It's a 1600-metre race held in November.
- Winterbottom Stakes: This race is 1200 metres long. It's for horses aged three years and up and takes place in November.
Understanding Race Terms
When you look at race details, you might see some special terms:
- hcp means handicap. In a handicap race, horses carry different amounts of weight. Faster horses carry more weight. This helps make the race fair for all horses.
- sw means set weights. In these races, horses carry a specific weight based on their age and gender.
- wfa means weight for age. Here, horses carry weight based on their age and the time of year. Older horses usually carry more weight.
Culture and the Perth Cup
The Perth Cup is a very special event at Ascot Racecourse. It's the biggest race day of the year in Perth. This exciting race is held every year. It usually happens on New Year's Day or a Saturday close to it. It's a fun day out for many people in Perth.
