When it comes to horse racing, beer is probably not the first thing that comes to mind, right? You are probably thinking of expensive champagne or whiskey. But craft beer is getting more and more attention, especially at big events where they have unique blends highlighting the overall experience. Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world, but so is beer. Even Egyptians made beer in huge amounts, so they go together pretty well.

Craft beer does make sense. You would not be chugging down a Heineken or a Bud at the Kentucky Derby, would you? Again, you would most likely consume some local equine-inspired craft beer just because of it; your experience is going to be even more luxurious. Although many craft beers inspired by racing exist in the market? Yes, in the short answer. There is some fine beer being brewed in many local breweries, and it goes hand in hand with a tradition of racing. OK, let’s see.

A New Era for Horse Racing and Craft Beer

Just take a look at it, horse racing has always been a sport that people flocked around with whiskey and champagne. Why? Well, horse racing is a prestigious sport, and because beer is not so expensive per se, it failed to gain a foothold at the races. 

However, with the development of the sport and the beer culture, more spectators are increasingly wanting a thirst-quenching drink such as beer, particularly during the hot summer racing period. Don’t we all feel like getting ourselves a cold beer as we shout cheers to the horse that we have bet on? Horse racing betting is making us thirsty, that is for sure. However, you have only recently gotten into the sport, so you should probably start by trying to learn to read the odds here: https://www.twinspires.com/betting-guides/what-do-horse-racing-odds-mean/.

But over the last few years, the sport has changed with beer featuring in nearly every horse racing event. The number of craft breweries that have been initiated to brew beers with the view of racing is on the increase. Also, as the Majority of the larger horse races, such as the Kentucky Derby, have partnered with local breweries just to bring some extra flavor to the race and to make everyone have an extra good day to remember.

Such sponsorship relationships can be exemplified by the affiliation of Ontario Racing with Alving Brewery in order to produce the UNFILTERED Champion Ale. This is a brew made of the same barley that racehorses consume to gain speed and win the race. The outcome is a rejuvenating golden ale that is as full blooded as a champion. It is more of a salute to the sport and athletes, not a mere drink. It is only one of the examples of how breweries start creating beers that are not only influenced by the racing but also connected to its traditions.

Race-Inspired Brews

These beers are so special in the way that they are more than just drinks, but rather a beer related to the love, enthusiasm, and passion of the game itself. Direct references to the racing world have inspired many craft breweries, with terminology, iconic figures, and racing traditions used as the basis of both the naming of beers and advertising. As an illustration, Gift Horse Brewing Company, situated near the track, has become a trademark in the racing circles. 

They have struck the right balance between the desire to drink beer and the passion to have a race by naming the beers after racing themes. They are called Gift Horse, which is an instant reference to the horse riding arena and easily connects to its target audience, who are racing enthusiasts. Be it someone who has been studying motorsport since forever or  American beer lovers wanting to have beer that is bold and themed, Gift Horse presents an experience that is uneven at best; a combination like no other.

Breweries Near Iconic Racetracks

Multiple craft breweries are situated around historic racetracks, giving racegoers an ideal setting in which to relax and have a cool brew at the end of a long day at the races. Located in the New York town of Saratoga Springs, just south of the storied Saratoga Racecourse, local beverages, including the Saratoga Brewing Company (sadly, now out of commission), can be found serving cold pints to go with all the race action (there is a lively food and beer scene in Saratoga Springs). No wonder, as race day draws to its conclusion, excited fans would be rushing to their local breweries to share the action with friends as they take a drink.

Barrier Brewing Co. of Elmont, New York, is a local establishment that is popular with race fans on their way to Belmont Park. The brewery has beers such as the Wicked White Belgian-style wheat ale bottle that recreates the experience of summer race days, crisp, light, and refreshing, and the perfect accompaniment to the races as well.

The Growing Popularity of Race Day Beer Festivals

The other situation where racing and craft beer are merging at the same time is via the beer festivals and race day parties. Events such as the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes are no longer only about horse racing; they have been turned into fashion, food, and, of course, craft beer festivals. The events tend to include local breweries representing special editions of brews themed after the races. A good example would be the Durbanville FestiVille in South Africa. It mixes the elements of horse racing with the fun aspect of a beer festival. 

Serving the visitors with a wide range of local and international beers as they cheer their favorite horses. It is now turned into a special event where people who appreciate the aesthetics of the sport and the variety of beer culture can rejoice similarly and convert it into an ideal day out for fans of racing and craft beer.  Anything you think? Should there be beer at horse races?