Have a Flutter in the Sun

A thrilling horse race and a day out in the sunshine – a tempting combination that visitors to Cyprus are sure to enjoy in November.

The Mediterranean island hosts the Cyprus Derby Cup at Nicosia Race Club every year and the meeting is one of the highlights of the racing calendar.

Three-year-old colts and geldings take part in this 2,250-metre chase, with the winner pocketing a hefty purse of CYP£30,000 (£36,340).

This event holds a special interest to racing fans as it is the only place in Cyprus where punters can treat themselves to a bet.

Horseracing was revived in Cyprus in the late 19th century but the sport has a rich history stretching back into the Hellenistic period, as evidenced by archaeological findings on the island.

References to racing can also be found in the works of Homer and other ancient writers who describe the pursuit at a time when it was seen as the 'sport of kings'.

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus and the country's largest city, is a good place to start for holidaymakers looking for cheap hotels on the island.

This article is provided by Hotels Hotels Hotels suppliers of cheap hotels in Cyprus

Updated: Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:06:41

Related Links:
Cyprus Tourist Board