150 Years Celebrated at Sandown Park: Horse Racing Exhibition Highlights Heritage and Tradition

Sandown Park Celebrates 150 Years of Racing History with New Exhibition

Sandown Park, the iconic Surrey racecourse, is marking a remarkable 150th anniversary with a special exhibition exploring its rich past.The display, currently open to the public at the House of Killik in Esher High Street until October 31st, delves into the origins of the course, its connections to the British Royal Family, and its pivotal role in the evolution of modern horse racing.

Founded in 1875, Sandown Park distinguished itself early on as a forward-thinking venue, becoming the first racecourse in the UK to implement paid admission and designated enclosures. This innovation opened racing to a wider audience and set a new standard for the sport.

The exhibition highlights not only the glamour of the races but also Sandown’s contributions during times of national crisis. During both World Wars, the racecourse was repurposed to support the war effort, utilized for crop cultivation and providing accommodation for military personnel – the royal Engineers in World War One and the Welsh Guard in both conflicts.

Sandown Park also holds the distinction of hosting several groundbreaking moments in racing history. In 1948, it was the site of the first ever televised horse race, bringing the excitement of the sport into homes across the nation.Nine years later, in 1957, the course hosted the first sponsored race in British history, marking a turning point in the commercialization of the sport.

“sandown Park is hugely proud to have been part of the local Elmbridge community for the past 150 years,” said Sarah Drabwell, General Manager of Sandown Park.

Today, Sandown Park is a multi-faceted venue, hosting not only thrilling horse racing events but also music concerts, exhibitions, and offering a challenging golf course. The exhibition,created in collaboration with Elmbridge Museum,aims to capture the full scope of the racecourse’s legacy.

“One hundred and fifty years is a momentous milestone and a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage, defining moments, and communities that have shaped the racecourse over the years,” a spokesperson for Elmbridge Museum stated. “We hope visitors enjoy exploring its interesting story and legacy.”

Admission to the exhibition is free, with visitors encouraged to donate to The Community Fund, a new charity dedicated to supporting local projects within the Elmbridge borough.

what interactive elements are included in the Sandown Park exhibition?

A Century and a Half of Racing History

Sandown Park, a cornerstone of British horse racing, is commemorating 150 years of thrilling races and rich history with a special exhibition. The event, running throughout the 2025 season, delves into the iconic racecourse’s past, showcasing its evolution from a humble sporting venue to a premier racing destination. This party isn’t just for seasoned racing fans; it’s a captivating journey for anyone interested in British sporting heritage and Epsom Derby qualifying races.

The Sandown Park Exhibition: What to Expect

The exhibition features a curated collection of:

Ancient Photographs: Rare images documenting Sandown Park’s early days, showcasing fashion, crowds, and legendary horses.

Racing Memorabilia: Including jockey silks, trophies, and race cards from important events like the Gold Cup and the Eclipse Stakes.

Interactive Displays: Allowing visitors to explore the course’s layout through time and learn about famous races and horses.

Oral Histories: Recordings of jockeys, trainers, and racing personalities sharing their memories and experiences at Sandown Park.

Timeline of Key Events: A comprehensive overview of the racecourse’s milestones, from its opening in 1875 to present-day championships.

Key Races and Their Legacy

Sandown Park is renowned for hosting several prestigious races that have shaped the landscape of National Hunt racing and flat racing.

The Gold Cup: First run in 1882,this race is a key trial for the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. It has been won by numerous champions, solidifying its place in racing folklore.

The Eclipse Stakes: A Group 1 flat race established in 1886, the Eclipse Stakes is a significant event for three-year-old and older horses, often serving as a stepping stone to even greater victories.

The Tingle creek Chase: A Grade 1 National Hunt steeplechase, the Tingle Creek Chase is a highlight of the winter jumps season, attracting top-class chasers.

The Imperial Cup: A valuable handicap hurdle race, the Imperial Cup often provides a platform for up-and-coming horses and jockeys.

Sandown Park’s Architectural Evolution

Over the past 150 years, Sandown Park has undergone significant architectural changes to enhance the spectator experience and accommodate growing crowds.

1. Early Days (1875-1920s): The original course was relatively simple, with wooden stands and basic facilities.
2. Interwar Period (1920s-1940s): Improvements were made to the grandstands and viewing areas,reflecting the increasing popularity of racing.
3. Post-War Progress (1940s-1980s): Modernization efforts included the construction of new stands,improved catering facilities,and enhanced safety measures.
4. Contemporary Sandown (1980s-Present): Ongoing investment has focused on creating a world-class racing venue with state-of-the-art amenities, including hospitality suites and enhanced viewing platforms.

The Social Impact of Sandown Park

Sandown Park has always been more than just a racecourse; it’s a social hub that has played a vital role in the local community.

Economic Contribution: The racecourse generates significant revenue for the local economy through tourism, employment, and hospitality.

Community Engagement: Sandown Park actively supports local charities and organizations through fundraising events and sponsorships.

Cultural Significance: The racecourse is a cherished landmark that embodies the spirit of British sporting tradition.

Fashion and Style: Throughout its history, Sandown Park has been a showcase for fashion and style, attracting well-dressed crowds and influencing trends.

Preserving the Legacy: Conservation Efforts

Recognizing the importance of preserving its heritage, Sandown Park has implemented several conservation initiatives. These include:

Archival preservation: Digitizing historical records, photographs, and race cards to ensure their long-term preservation.

Restoration Projects: Undertaking restoration work on historic buildings and features to maintain their original character.

Educational Programs: Developing educational programs to raise awareness of Sandown Park’s history and significance.

Sustainable Practices: Implementing sustainable practices to minimize the racecourse’s environmental impact.

Planning Your Visit to the 150th Anniversary Celebration

Ticket Information: Tickets for the exhibition and race meetings can be purchased online through the Sandown Park website.

Accessibility: Sandown Park offers accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities.

Transportation: The racecourse is easily accessible by train, bus, and car.

Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available in the surrounding area.

Nearby Attractions: Explore other attractions in the area, such as richmond park and hampton Court Palace.