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"Horses in the City revitalizes racing enthusiasm among French citizens, with France Galop event garnering significant popularity in Paris"

Horses gracefully moving about a substantial paddock, under the looming presence of the iconic Egyptian Needle, meet tourists and residents leaving their hiding places.

"Revitalizing Racing in Paris: France Galop's Event Sparkles, Ignites French Enthusiasm for...
"Revitalizing Racing in Paris: France Galop's Event Sparkles, Ignites French Enthusiasm for Equestrian Pursuits"

"Horses in the City revitalizes racing enthusiasm among French citizens, with France Galop event garnering significant popularity in Paris"

In the heart of Paris, the Place de la Concorde was transformed into a bustling hub of equine enthusiasm as the Horses in the City event took place over two days. On Friday, the event was officially opened by Guillaume de Saint-Seine, the president of France Galop, the governing body of French horse racing.

The event, which took over one half of the landmark square, aimed to bring horse racing closer to a population that sees less of it than in the past. With almost 10,000 visitors on the opening day, it seems the initiative was a success.

Saint-Seine, who encouraged people to attend racecourses in the future, emphasized the need to address a budget deficit caused by falling betting revenues. He hopes that many people will discover the professions associated with racing at the event, and in doing so, help revamp the sport's workforce.

The Horses in the City event also showcased the 'uplifting effect' of racehorses, as demonstrated by the National Racehorse Week. Autism In Racing, a foundation that focuses on the therapeutic benefits of horse racing for individuals with autism, praised this aspect of the event.

Meanwhile, the last prep races at ParisLongchamp will take place this Sunday, marking a significant moment in the racing calendar. Elsewhere, Baaeed's brother made an impressive winning debut for Shadwell and Owen Burrows, adding another exciting chapter to the racing season.

Unfortunately, not all news from the racing world was positive. Wayne Lordan's appeal against a ten-day whip ban was dismissed, a reminder of the challenges the sport still faces in terms of regulation and enforcement.

Despite these challenges, Saint-Seine remains determined to continue projects aimed at growing interest in racing. He encourages everyone to stay informed about the latest developments in the sport, and to consider signing up to the Racing Post's On The Nose newsletter.

As the Horses in the City event comes to a close, it's clear that the future of horse racing in France is in good hands. With initiatives like these, the sport is not only educating a new generation about the wonders of horse racing, but also fostering a love for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and all it represents.

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