Thoroughbred horse racing in Lebanon has a long and rich history. The first recorded race in Lebanon was held in 1870, and the sport quickly became popular among the country's elite. In the early 20th century, Lebanon was one of the leading horse racing centers in the Middle East, and the country's horses were often victorious in international competitions.
However, the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990) had a devastating impact on the sport. The racecourse in Beirut was destroyed, and many of the country's horses were killed or sold. It took several years for horse racing to recover in Lebanon, but the sport is now making a comeback.
The main racecourse in Lebanon is the Beirut Hippodrome, which is located in the capital city. The Hippodrome hosts a variety of races throughout the year, including flat races, jump races, and harness races. The most prestigious race in Lebanon is the Beirut International Horse Race, which is held annually in February.
In addition to the Beirut Hippodrome, there are a number of other racecourses in Lebanon, including the Hippodrome du Parc de Beyrouth, the Hippodrome de Jounieh, and the Hippodrome de Zahle. These racecourses host a variety of races throughout the year, and they attract horse racing enthusiasts from all over the country.
Thoroughbred horse racing is a popular sport in Lebanon, and it is a source of national pride. The country's horses have won numerous international competitions, and they are known for their speed and endurance. Lebanon is a promising horse racing country, and it is likely that the sport will continue to grow in popularity in the years to come.
Here are some additional information about thoroughbred horse racing in Lebanon:
- The Lebanese Horse Racing Federation is the governing body of the sport in Lebanon.
- The Federation organizes the annual Beirut International Horse Race, as well as other races throughout the year.
- There are a number of horse racing clubs in Lebanon, which provide training and racing opportunities for horses and jockeys.
- Thoroughbred horse racing is a popular spectator sport in Lebanon, and the races are often well-attended.
