The European Beach Racing Association had never previously visited Northern Spain's Cantabrian coast, where the nearby resorts of Loredo and Laredo have long held official beach races. This was rectified on July 21st and 22nd, when Loredo hosted the EBRA's Seventh Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting itself was held in the Civic Offices of neighbouring Ribamontan al Mar and the Official Dinner nearby. Grateful thanks are due to Antonio Sarabia, lynchpin or Cantabrian racing, Loredo Neighbourhood Council and Ribamontan al Mar City Council for their kind hospitality.
Sarabia explained that Beach Racing at Loredo would reach its 70th Anniversary in 2026. Initially it involved farmers with the carts they would also have used to transport their produce. It was in 1975 that races for thoroughbreds were first organised and in 1983 when they became Official races. Today, these races constitute a significant draw for local tourism - in 2019 a record crowd to date of 18,500 attended. Races are confined to Amateur Riders and the meetings are important events in the Gentlemen Riders' calendar.
This year's meeting was not without its challenges. Inclement weather forced organisers to amend the configuration of the track. The two thoroughbred races, of 1,500m/7.5f and 2,000m/1m 2f respectively, were to have been run round one and two bends respectively. However, in the event they were run over a straight course.
In addition, two Pony Races (the first for riders aged 8 to 11, the second for those aged 12 to 16) were run, together with a Pony Racing Challenge Match between two 13-year-old girls, considered stars of the future. Cantabrian Pony Racing has produced significant numbers of amateur and professional jockeys, trainers and owners.
Prince Anodin (FR), clear leader, on his way to victory in the Loredo Derby
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