Living in Mauritius: the charm of Champs de Mars

That Mauritius is surely getting back to its pre-Covid-19 charm could be seen in Champs de Mars, a historical icon to the joy of living in Mauritius. This centuries-old hippodrome, which used to draw horse racing aficionados in the tens of thousands, has set a June 20 opening of its 2020 racing season. The season was scheduled for its traditional April opening, but it was postponed because of the Covid-19 global crisis.

A beloved landmark

The media mileage that Champs de Mars and its events generate, of course, is more than justified. Its racecourse is the world’s second oldest and the oldest in the Southern Hemisphere. Built in 1812, Champs de Mars also hosted the proclamation of the Independence of Mauritius in 1968.

Local and international tourists also visit Champs de Mars not only for races but also for photo-ops on its beautiful foothill locale. Notably the hippodrome’s grounds feature a statue of King Edwards VII and the Malartic Tomb, a memorial obelisk honouring a former French governor of Mauritius.

Champs de Mars was built under the administration of Sir Robert Farquhar, the first English governor of Mauritius. Farquhar was known for his efforts to win the favour of the Mauritian white population of French origin then holding the economic clout among folks. The name given to the Mauritian racecourse was an obvious take from the Paris landmark Champs de Mars near the Eiffel Tower.

Blue-ribbon events

The management of the hippodrome is under the Mauritius Turf Club which is as old as the racecourse itself. The Champs de Mars season typically lasts till December, with races held during weekends.

The hippodrome’s signature racing event is the Maiden Cup traditionally scheduled in September. This derby is not only a competition of the top thoroughbred horses ridden by star local and foreign jockeys. The Maiden Cup is also a time when cultural diversity in Mauritius comes in its full display.

Many of the spectators gather in their colourful ethnic attires at the hippodrome’s bleacher stands and reserved VIP areas of the Maiden Cup. At this event, race fans can also partake of Mauritian samoussas  delicacies, the Muslim dish Briyani, Bajas, chili cakes, and the hippodrome’s signature small cakes gateau lécourse, truly a kaleidoscope on the delight.

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