The History of Horse Racing in Greece
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Η Ιστορία του Ιπποδρόμου στην Ελλάδα
Horse races constitute one of the most long standing and historic sports in Greece.
We can trace their roots back to Ancient Greece in Athens and to the first Olympic Games. They also had a strong presence during the Roman era and they boomed during the Byzantine era. The horseracing site of Constantinople had a capacity of 100,000 people and it was the core of public entertainment in the Byzantine capital.
Today, there are racecourses in more than 70 countries, offering entertainment with thrilling races and multiple activities for everybody.
The contemporary tradition of Modern Horse races in Greece started in April 1925, when the racecourse at the Delta of Faliro was inaugurated and was established as a very important entertainment hub for the Athenian society.
The golden era of the Greek horse races was during the 50s when they became one of the most important social events. Horse racing events and parties were held at Faliro and they were attended by the high society of Athens.
In the beginning of 2000 and in light of the Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, a modern racecourse was built in Markopoulo Attica according to the highest international standards and conduct of horse races in the new facilities seemed to be the ideal solution.
As of September 2003, the Athens Racecourse is located in Markopoulo, Attica, in top notch facilities that stand among the best racecourses internationally.
In December 2015, HELLAS HORSE RACES S.A. an OPAP Group company, undertook the organization, conduct and development of horse races and mutual horse betting in Greece.
The company has completed all necessary work in operational, technical and racing level, in order to ensure the impeccable and safe conduct of Greek horseracing meetings. Furthermore, it has proceeded with the maintenance of the track and has upgraded and improved all areas and infrastructure of the Markopoulo facilities
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