The glitz and glamour of a major horse racing event is one of the reasons the sport is loved by people from all walks of life. High octane action on the course is flanked by endless rows of food stalls, bars, live music and women in outlandish outfits. All in all a day at the races is one that’s not only filled with betting action but all round entertainment.

So before you head off to one of the biggest meetings of the year, the Grand National for example, what do you need to know to get maximum value out of the day?

Choose Your Outfit Wisely:

by  Eva Rinaldi Celebrity and Live Music Photographer 

As much as a day at the races is a fashion parade, it’s also a day out in the open for the most part. The Great British weather is notoriously unpredictable and if you are attending an event such as the Grand National 2015 you need to be prepared for anything. A long skirt for women accompanied by a light jacket and a fancy hat are always good choices. For men, the classic two piece suit is a must for any high profile racing event. Ties are optional if the weather is nice, but you need to ensure your outfit is both practical and fashionable.

Have a Plan B:

by Kurayba 

Having a back-up plan is always necessary in the racing world because, as we’ve said, the weather is notoriously unpredictable. To ensure your day at the races isn’t a washout you need a point of cover if the sky decides to open up. Most major race courses will have an indoor section, for example Newmarket racecourse has two grandstands, so you should try to create a base inside before heading outside. If you can manage to hold a spot under cover and still get outside to see the races you’ll have cracked it.

Study the Form:

by  Paolo Camera 

One of the biggest considerations you’ll need to make before you head off to the races is the form. Although the auxiliary antics on offer are always fun, the main reason you’re at a racing event is, unsurprisingly, the racing. If you’re going to make a bet, you need to know what you’re speculating on and the best way to do this is combine online research with your own observations. Make sure you check out the stats from one of the many online bookmakers offering Grand National 2015 odds then compare these stats to the form books available at the racecourse. After weighing up your options, make sure don’t spend more than you can afford.

Get Out Early or Stay In Late:

by jaguarmena 

The final thing you need to think about before you go off and enjoy a day at the races is the amount of time you’re going to spend inside the venue. Major events attract thousands of spectators and that causes a swell of people when the final race comes to a conclusion. The majority of people will want to head off into the nearest town as quickly as possible, so you need to make a choice: leave early or stay late. Either option is as valid as the other, but you need to make your choice and stick to it. If you can follow this simple piece of advice and our preceding three points, then a day at any racing event in the country will be a fantastic day filled with fun, frolics and, hopefully, profits.