Guide to Andalucia > Destinations > Conil > Horse Racing on the Beach

Horse Racing on the beach

The origin of the “Horse Races on the Sanlúcar de Barrameda beach” dates back to the informal competitions held by owners of equine stock used for transportation of fish from the former Bajo de Guía port to the local markets and nearby towns.

The SOCIEDAD DE CARRERAS DE CABALLOS DE SANLUCAR was born in November 1845. The first articles of association of this company recognised the Andalusian horse bred as useful for the country agriculture but it is also stated that one of the activities to be carried out by the said company was the holding of horse racings. The first races were held on 31st August 1845.

Almost all of the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Horse Races have been the responsibility of the Sociedad de Carreras de Caballos, except during a period in which the town hall was in charge of organising them and made it the most attractive and unique venue offered to the Sanlúcar people and numerous visitors.

As from 1981 the "Horse Races on the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Beach” became much more important since the former “SOCIEDAD DE CARRERAS DE CABALLOS DE SANLUCAR DE BARRAMEDA” was refounded again. From now on the horse races became extraordinary well known, exceeding the splendour reached during the first decades of the century.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda is located in the Marshes of the River Guadalquivir, natural flow for important civilizations and cultures. Sailing port for famous sailors such as Columbus, Magallanes and Elcano, becoming one of the most significant ports linking the Atlantic and Mediterranean routes.  

Horse racing on the Beach

There are also beautiful spots to visit in Sanlúcar, and we can also admire the perfectly preserved nature.

The estimated dates for this year’s races are 9th, 10th & 11th August and 23rd, 24th & 25th August.

For further information please visit www.carrerassanlucar.es