Horse racing is one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved sports. Dating back hundreds of years, the industry has grown to become one of the country’s most popular and profitable. With over 3,000 registered racecourses and an estimated $1.3 billion of turnover in the past year, the Australian horse racing industry is truly a powerhouse. In this article, we’ll take a look at just how big the industry really is.
I. The History of Horse Racing in Australia
The history of horse racing in Australia dates back to the 1800s, when British settlers brought the sport with them. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity and is now the country’s most popular form of gambling. The industry has also been supported by several government initiatives, such as the Racing Industry Act of 2001 and the Racing Industry Regulation Act of 2003.
II. Number of Racecourses
There are over 3,000 registered racecourses in Australia, making it one of the most densely populated countries in terms of horse racing. These courses range from local tracks to international racing circuits, and are spread across all states and territories.
III. Number of Races
In 2017, there were over 10,000 horse races held in Australia. This includes both thoroughbred and trotting races, with the most popular being the Melbourne Cup. This race alone attracts around 100,000 spectators each year, and is one of the most highly anticipated events in the country.
IV. Number of Horses
In 2017, there were over 30,000 registered horses in Australia. These horses range from thoroughbreds to standardbreds, and are used for both racing and recreational purposes.
V. Number of Jockeys
There are over 5,000 registered jockeys in Australia. These riders come from all walks of life, and represent the best of the best when it comes to horse racing.
VI. Number of Trainers
There are also over 5,000 registered trainers in Australia. These trainers specialize in various aspects of horse racing, such as training, conditioning, nutrition, grooming and more.
VII. Number of Owners
The number of horse owners in Australia is estimated to be around 20,000. These owners range from individuals to large corporations, and are responsible for providing the horses with the best care and training available.
VIII. Economic Impact
The Australian horse racing industry has a significant economic impact. According to estimates, the industry contributes around $1.3 billion to the economy each year. This includes money from entry fees, betting, sponsorships and more.
IX. Social Impact
The Australian horse racing industry also has a large social impact. The sport brings people together from all walks of life, and creates a sense of camaraderie and community. It is also a major source of pride for many Australians, as the industry has been a part of their culture for hundreds of years.
X. Future of the Industry
The future of the Australian horse racing industry is looking bright. With new technologies and innovations, the industry is becoming more efficient and accessible than ever before. As a result, the industry is expected to continue to grow in both size and popularity in the years to come.
Conclusion
The Australian horse racing industry is one of the country’s most popular and profitable sports. With over 3,000 registered racecourses and an estimated $1.3 billion of turnover in the past year, the industry is a powerhouse in its own right. The industry has a long history, and is expected to continue to grow in the years to come.