A Guide to Kenilworth Racecourse

Kenilworth Racecourse is one of the oldest and most famous racecourses in South Africa. Located in Cape Town, it is one of only ten racecourses in the country and has a rich history dating back to 1881. The racecourse is spread over an area of 52 hectares and is a left-handed course where races occur in a counter-clockwise direction.

As one of the most popular racecourses in South Africa, Kenilworth Racecourse attracts both locals and foreigners alike. It is a favourite destination for those who enjoy the thrill of horse racing and want to experience the excitement of a raceday. The course is also home to a range of facilities, including restaurants, bars, and betting booths, making it a great place to spend a day out with friends and family.

If you’re planning a visit to Kenilworth Racecourse, it’s important to know what to expect. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the racecourse, the different types of races that take place there, and what you can expect when you visit. Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or a first-time visitor, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Kenilworth Racecourse.

History of Kenilworth Racecourse

Kenilworth Racecourse is the oldest racecourse in South Africa. It was established in 1881 and is located in Cape Town, the capital city of the Western Cape. The turf was proclaimed in 1882, and the facility hosted its first race, the Metropolitan Mile, in 1883.

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area (KRCA) was established in 1985. It is a seasonal wetland that spans some 52 hectares in the centre of the racecourse’s borders. This nature reserve is special and has been hailed as one of the most precious pieces of Cape Flats sand fynbos, which is endemic to this region alone, and provides an absolutely …

Kenilworth Racecourse enjoys a special place in the history of horseracing in the country. In those days, a classroom behind the Cedar House School’s central building was used as a stable for the horses competing on the racing track. The course is a favourite with locals and foreigners alike. This is one of the most unique courses in the world.

Today, Kenilworth Racecourse is a popular venue for horse racing and other events. It has a rich history and is considered a Western Cape heritage site. The racecourse hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the J&B Met, which is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in South Africa.

In conclusion, Kenilworth Racecourse is a historic and iconic venue that has played a significant role in the development of horseracing in South Africa. Its unique location and rich history make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area is a 52-hectare nature reserve located in the heart of the Kenilworth Racecourse in Cape Town, South Africa. This conservation area has been left undisturbed for over 100 years, making it the best-preserved patch of Cape Flats Sand Fynbos in the world.

Flora and Fauna

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. There are 283 indigenous plant species, of which 20 are endangered, and two are endemic. The conservation area is also a habitat for various animal species, including small mammals, reptiles, and birdlife.

Conservation Efforts

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area is one of the largest conservation areas in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, surrounded by urbanisation. It is also the best example of sand fynbos remaining in the Cape Peninsula. The conservation area is managed by the City of Cape Town, which has implemented several conservation efforts to preserve the area’s unique ecosystem.

One of the primary conservation efforts in the Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area is the protection of the wetland area. The wetland is a critical habitat for various bird species and provides a vital ecosystem service by filtering pollutants from the water. The City of Cape Town has also implemented regular alien vegetation clearing to prevent invasive species from taking over the area.

In addition to these efforts, the conservation area offers guided walks, children’s events, and various environmental education programmes to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.

Overall, the Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area is a significant conservation area in Cape Town, providing a haven for endangered plant and animal species. The City of Cape Town’s efforts to protect and preserve the area’s unique ecosystem are commendable, and visitors can enjoy a guided tour or educational programme to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna.

Racing at Kenilworth

Kenilworth Racecourse is a world-renowned racing venue located in Cape Town, South Africa. The racecourse has been in operation since 1881 and boasts three unique courses for horseracing. The left-handed track runs anti-clockwise, and the rails are on the jockey’s left-hand side.

Key Racing Events

The summer horseracing season at Kenilworth Racecourse is packed with exciting events and races. The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate is one of the most prestigious races held at the venue. It is a Grade 1 race and is a part of the South African horseracing calendar. The Sun Met is another popular event that attracts racing enthusiasts from all over the world. The race is worth over £200,000 and has been won by some of South Africa’s greatest ever horses such as Aries, Pocket Power and Horse Chestnut.

The Tracks

Kenilworth Racecourse has three tracks for horseracing: the Main Track, the Inside Track, and the Old Course. The Main Track is the largest and most popular track at the venue. It is a left-handed course that measures 2800 meters in circumference. The Inside Track is a unique track that runs parallel to the Main Track. It is a shorter track that measures 2200 meters in circumference. The Old Course is the oldest track at the venue and is rarely used for racing.

The Main Track and the Inside Track are both used for the Sun Met and the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate, as well as other world-renowned racing events. The tracks are well-maintained and provide a challenging course for horses and jockeys alike.

In summary, Kenilworth Racecourse is a world-class racing venue with a rich history and tradition of horseracing. The three unique courses provide a challenging and exciting experience for both horses and jockeys. The Sun Met and the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate are just two of the many exciting events held at the venue.

The Venue

Kenilworth Racecourse is a historic venue that has been a part of South Africa’s horseracing industry since 1881. The venue is located in Kenilworth, Cape Town, and is well-known for hosting a variety of racing events throughout the year. In addition to racing, the venue also offers excellent hospitality and catering services, making it a popular choice for conferences, banquets, launches, seminars, cocktail parties, and other events.

Hospitality and Catering

The in-house catering team at Kenilworth Racecourse is dedicated to providing guests with exceptional service and delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a small business meeting or a large banquet, the team can create a menu tailored to your specific needs and tastes. They offer a range of options, including plated meals, buffets, and canapes, and can accommodate a variety of dietary requirements.

The venue also offers a range of hospitality packages, which provide guests with an all-inclusive experience. These packages include access to private suites, premium seating, and complimentary food and drinks. The packages are available for both racing events and non-racing events, making them an excellent value for money.

Hosting Events

Kenilworth Racecourse is an excellent venue for hosting events of all kinds. The venue has a range of spaces available, including private suites, function rooms, and outdoor areas. The venue can accommodate events of all sizes, from small business meetings to large banquets and conferences.

The venue’s experienced events team is dedicated to ensuring that your event runs smoothly and is a success. They can assist with everything from planning and logistics to catering and audiovisual equipment. The team is committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring that your event is a memorable one.

In summary, Kenilworth Racecourse is a historic venue that offers excellent hospitality and catering services. The venue is an excellent choice for hosting a variety of events, from small business meetings to large banquets and conferences. The in-house catering team and experienced events team are dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that your event is a success.

Educational Programmes at Kenilworth

Kenilworth Racecourse offers a range of educational programmes for visitors to participate in. These programmes are designed to provide a unique learning experience about the history and tradition of South African horseracing, as well as the importance of environmental conservation.

One of the programmes offered is the guided tour of the racecourse. This tour provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of the racecourse and its significance in the South African horseracing industry. Visitors will also get a chance to see the stables, paddocks, and other facilities used by the horses and jockeys.

Another educational programme offered by Kenilworth Racecourse is the environmental education programme. This programme aims to educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and how it relates to horseracing. Visitors will learn about the various flora and fauna found in the conservation area and how they are protected.

In addition to these programmes, Kenilworth Racecourse also offers children’s events. These events are designed to provide a fun and interactive learning experience for children. Children will learn about the history of horseracing and the importance of environmental conservation through games, activities, and storytelling.

Overall, the educational programmes offered by Kenilworth Racecourse provide a unique and informative experience for visitors. Whether you are a horseracing enthusiast or simply interested in learning about environmental conservation, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Cultural Significance of Kenilworth Racecourse

Kenilworth Racecourse is not only a popular horse racing venue but also has significant cultural and heritage value. The racecourse is located in the Western Cape of South Africa and is known for hosting some of the most prestigious horse racing events throughout the year, including the Sun Met, previously known as the J&B Met.

The racecourse’s prime positioning provides stunning views of Table Mountain, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors from all over the world can participate in some of the educational programs of the Kenilworth Racecourse, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area (KRCA), established in 1985, is a seasonal wetland that spans some 52 hectares in the centre of the racecourse’s borders. The KRCA is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna and is an essential part of the Western Cape’s natural heritage.

The Kenilworth Racecourse is South Africa’s oldest racecourse, established in 1881. The racecourse has a rich history and is an integral part of the Western Cape’s heritage. It has played a significant role in the development of horse racing in South Africa, and its cultural significance cannot be overstated.

In conclusion, the Kenilworth Racecourse is more than just a horse racing venue. Its cultural and heritage significance, stunning views of Table Mountain, and educational programs make it a must-visit destination for tourists visiting the Western Cape.

Equine Quarantine Station

Kenilworth Racecourse is home to South Africa’s equine quarantine station. It is located in the middle of the track and is where horses bound for export are kept. The quarantine station is an essential part of the racing industry as it ensures that horses are healthy and free from diseases before they are exported to other countries.

The equine quarantine station at Kenilworth Racecourse is equipped with modern facilities, including stables, paddocks, and veterinary services. The quarantine period for horses is usually 14 days, during which time they are monitored closely by veterinarians to ensure that they are healthy and free from any infectious diseases.

Vector surveillance is also undertaken routinely at the Kenilworth Quarantine Station. There is a trap outside the barns monitoring vector populations in the region, while the traps inside the various barns are used to establish whether vector protection was maintained during periods when there are horses in quarantine.

The quarantine station plays a vital role in protecting the health of horses and the integrity of the racing industry. It ensures that horses are free from diseases that could potentially cause outbreaks in other countries and helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases within South Africa.

In conclusion, the equine quarantine station at Kenilworth Racecourse is an essential part of the racing industry in South Africa. It provides a safe and secure environment for horses bound for export and helps to protect the health of horses and the integrity of the racing industry.

Unique Features of Kenilworth Racecourse

Kenilworth Racecourse is a special place with a lot of unique features that make it stand out from other racecourses. Here are some of the most notable features:

Natural Beauty

Kenilworth Racecourse is situated in a beautiful location that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The majestic Table Mountain can be seen in the background, while the Hottentots Holland range provides a vast expanse in the front. The racecourse is also home to the Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area (KRCA), which is a seasonal wetland that spans some 52 hectares in the centre of the racecourse’s borders.

Unique Racecourses

Kenilworth Racecourse is one of the most unique and valuable horse racing tracks in the world. It is left-handed and has three tracks, namely an “old” course that is 2700m in circumference with a 450m run-in, a “new” course of 2800m with a 600m run-in, and a separate 1200m straight. The different tracks provide a variety of challenges for horses and jockeys alike.

KRCA

The Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area (KRCA) is a unique feature of the racecourse. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The KRCA is open to the public and offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.

In conclusion, Kenilworth Racecourse is a unique and special place that offers a lot to visitors. With its natural beauty, unique racecourses, and the Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in horse racing or nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of Kenilworth Racecourse?

Kenilworth Racecourse can accommodate up to 12,000 spectators in its grandstand and various hospitality areas.

How long is the straight at Kenilworth Racecourse?

The straight at Kenilworth Racecourse is 600 meters long, making it one of the longest in South Africa.

What is the history of Kenilworth Racecourse?

Kenilworth Racecourse is the oldest racecourse in South Africa, with its first race taking place in 1881. It has a rich history and tradition in South African horseracing.

What is the famous Cape Town horse race?

The most famous horse race held at Kenilworth Racecourse is the Sun Met, previously known as the J&B Met. It is a prestigious event that attracts local and international visitors.

Where is Kenilworth race track?

Kenilworth Racecourse is located in Kenilworth, Cape Town, South Africa. It is approximately 20 minutes away from Cape Town International Airport.

How can I hire the venue at Kenilworth Racecourse?

To hire the venue at Kenilworth Racecourse, you need to contact the racecourse management team directly. They will provide you with all the necessary information and assist you with the booking process.