Champ de Mars Mauritius

Champ De Mars is a historical place in Mauritius and is located South East of Port-Louis, between Eugene Laurent Street and Destaing Street but it is mainly known for its race course. Race horsing is one of the main hobbies of the Mauritians, in 1812 the Mauritius Turf Club was formed and during the same year there was the first race course and it is the sole race course of Mauritius. Race horsing is usually held during the month of May and November, every Saturday. Champ de Mars can attract about 30,000 people when there is horse racing. During the racing season in Mauritius, Champ de Mars is the best place to be, it has an electrifying atmosphere, alive with all the people present which will bring out feelings you have never known. Champ de Mars is now world renowned for its beautiful race track which is almost circular in shape and also because jockeys come from all parts of the world. There is an average of 9 horses per race, and 8 races in total, the first starting at 12.45 and the last at 17.00. You can easily view the horses from the lodge, a ticket costs Rs 150 per person (around £5) but free for women and children. The horse races usually take place on Saturdays, every week. The race for Maiden Cup is held on Sundays and it is the time when Champ de Mars is mostly full. Champ de Mars attracts many tourists because it contains many historical monuments like Tombeau Malartic and the monument build by Maurice Cure when there was the first Labour Party reunion in 1936, it is found near the kiosk, it is not only a place for horse racing but it reminds us of the very essence of Mauritius through these monuments which have been build to remind us of a past Mauritius. The crown lodge has been newly opened for tourists where you can be on the first floor of the race stand which have an open balcony and people can have a clear view of the of the horses throughout the race. It is very simple to get there because you are picked from your hotel and on arrival you receive food and drinks and then when the race is over you are taken back to your hotel. Tourists often opt for this because it is the easiest way for them to view the horses and it is a unique organisation and very professional also where you are sure you are safely being taken from and back to your hotel. There are also betting facilities, and the SUPER TOTE allows you to bet with just a phone call but it should be reminded that people under eighteen have no right to bet! Families often go on a picnic to Champ de Mars but it is mainly on Sundays. There are stalls where you can buy food, fruits, ice cream and so on. There is also a playground for kids open only on Sundays and the famous `Tamponneuse’ which is accessed only as from 7 pm. Thus Champ de Mars is not only a place for adults but kids also can enjoy a nice time there. It is a very interesting place that both the local residents and tourists to enjoy!