The Kiplingcotes Derby - The World's Oldest Horse Race

First run in 1519, the little known Kiplingcotes Derby, holds the title of the world’s oldest horse race. Held in the hamlet of Kiplingcotes near Market Weighton in the picturesque Yorkshire Wolds, this race is far from your typical equestrian event.

Spectators mingle by the Kiplingcotes Derby Winning Post. A blackboard with runners and riders chalked up on it leans against the post. — First run in 1519, the Kiplingcotes Derby is the world’s oldest horse race.

The Kiplingcotes Derby in a Nutshell

Historical Significance: The Kiplingcotes Derby, dating back to 1519, holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest horse race. This event showcases over 500 years of equestrian tradition, making it a much cherished piece of Yorkshire’s cultural heritage.
Unique Competition: Unlike typical horse races, the Kiplingcotes Derby features a mix of professional jockeys and local enthusiasts. Without a formal racecourse, competitors race across a challenging four-mile track that includes public roads and rugged country lanes.
Unconventional Prize Structure: Intriguingly, the Derby’s prize structure favours the runner-up more than the winner. While the first-place rider takes home a modest prize, it’s the second-place rider who often earns a greater reward, collecting the bulk of the entry fees.
Community Involvement: The local community plays a crucial role in preserving the legacy of the Kiplingcotes Derby. The event is a significant local festival that draws spectators and participants alike.
Resilience in Adversity: The Derby has demonstrated remarkable resilience over the centuries, continuing through various challenges such as severe weather conditions and national crises.

Crowd cheering on competitors riding down the finishing straight an the Kiplingcotes Derby.

The History of the World’s Oldest Horse Race

The Origins and Evolution of the Kiplingcotes Derby

This annual horse race has been held every year, on the third Thursday of March, for over 500 years. It is believed that it was first run as a straight race between two squires to see whose horse was faster. A set of race rules discovered in a bank vault state that the race was started by the Earl of Burlington in 1519 and that the first prize is the accrued interest of an original investment of 16 Guineas by the organisers.. The rules also state that if the race is not run one year, then it must never be run again.

Click here for the Articles of the Kiplingcotes Derby drawn up in 1619

1st Every man that is a Founder he is to put Twenty Shillings in Gold for his stake when he hath a horse, gelding or mare that runs for the prize, and every other person Four Pounds in Gold, and if any person that is a founder put in a horse that is not his own, he must put in Four Pounds in Gold for his stake or be adjudged not to run for the prize.

2nd Every horse, gelding or mare that runneth for the prize shall be led out between twelve and one of the clock, and shall run the course before two of the clock in the afternoon.

3rd Every horse, etc, that runneth for the Prize shall start bridled and saddled and shall run with rider weighing 10 st., fourteen pounds to the stone, according to ancient custom.

4th Every horse, etc., that runneth for the Prize shall have their Judge or Trier, and put their stakes into the clerk’s hand at or before eleven of the clock, who will be at the weighing post ready to receive it, and set down the name of the owner of every horse, etc., his horse’s name and colour, and his rider’s name and Judge’s name, and to take a record from the Judge every horse’s place at the end of the course.

5th Whosoever doth stop or stay any of the running horses that rideth for this Prize, if he be either the owner of a horse that runs or his servant will be adjudged to hinder the horse, his horse shall win no prize.

6th Every rider that layeth hold of any of the other riders or striketh any of them shall win no prize.

7th Every rider that wanteth any more than one pound of his weight after he has run shall win no prize.

8th That the horse that runneth first by the Weighing Post set up at the end of the course observing the articles shall win the rize, and the second horse etc., shall have the stakes, only so muck yearly detained and taken out of the stakes as shall finish, support, repair and maintain the Rubbing Houses at the end of the course, and what be deemed necessary to be done about the said course in maintaining the weights, posts and levelling ground, etc., and any two or more of the Founders are authorised to direct and appoint yearly how much of the stakes shall be detained or taken out for the uses aforesaid.

9th George Plaxton, of Londesburgh, is declared to be clerk and to keep the weights, and is to receive fifteen shillings from him that winneth the Prize, that is ten shillings for keeping the weights and five shillings which he is to employ for mending the course every year, and likewise to receive twelve pence for every Trier’s name that he enters in his book, and he is to appoint a man to start the horses, to whom the Master of the winning horse is to pay two shillings and sixpence, and he is to take care that there be not any horse, etc., do start within a quarter of a mile of the running horses, and the said Trustees or the major part of them is hereby declared from time to time to nominate and appoint who shall be their clerk at their will and pleasure.

10th All the Posts on the course to be left on the right hand, otherwise he shall win no Prize.

11th Every man that is a Founder and his heir’s male are herby declared to be Founders to this course for ever, and that the eldest son of every Founder shall have the privilege of putting in a horse as a Founder during his father’s life, and that the names of every Founder be fairly written on parchment to remain constantly with the clerk, and likewise on the same parchment to be set down in whose custody the writing or security shall remain which is taken for any part of the sums of money so contributed.

12th The master of those horses that run wherein there shall happen any difference, shall each of them name one Founder to determine this difference, and if they cannot agree, those two Founders are to name an Umpire.

13th Any of the riders being required by any of the Triers or Judges shall be weighed after the course, and in case of refusal or want of weight according to the Articles shall be adjudged the last horse.

14th That is any horse, etc., be brought to run under the name of a Founder and that there be any suspicion by any person that such a Founder is not really the owner of such horse etc. and that the said suspicion be declared to the clerk of the course, he is directed to acquaint the Judge or Trier of such horse etc., and such Founder, if he be on the course. is forthwith upon notice to repair to the said clerk, and engage to the Trier upon his honour that such horse etc., is really his own without any manner of equivocation, fraudulence, or deceit; or if such Founder be not upon the course himself, then some Gentlemen on his behalf is to clear the doubt in the same manner as aforesaid, and if there be no such clearing of the aforesaid doubt, then such Founder is either to put in Four Pounds towards the increase of the stakes or else to be adjudged not to be in a capacity to win the Plate, but shall be adjudged the last horse.

White country signpost which says "England's Oldest Horse Race"in black letters. The sign marks the end of the Kiplingcotes Derby. — The Kiplingcotes Derby winning post was donated by a local secondary school.

The start is marked by a stone post in Etton, near the old Kiplingcotes Station in the parish of Etton, the race has used the same course since 1664. On their way to the finish, the runners cross two country lanes, a 12-foot wide bridge over the disused railway line, and the A614 Market Weighton to Driffield road before finishing down a quarter-mile strip of grass verge adjacent to Londesborough Wold Farm. The white winning post proudly proclaims “England’s oldest horse race” and was donated by a local secondary school.

Women were finally allowed to compete from 1933 onwards, however, the history of the Derby states that a 60-year old woman jockey competed in 1926 riding side-saddle, being in the lead almost all the way until the last 40 yards (37 m).

The race’s unbroken history over half a millennium sets it apart from all others horse races. The organisers proudly proclaim it as “England’s oldest horse race”, but as no older race has been identified, it is actually the oldest horse race in the world on record.

Historical Challenges and Triumphs

The Derby has faced numerous challenges over the years, including severe weather conditions and national crises that threatened its continuation.

In 1930, the racers had to deal with 3-foot (0.91 m) snowdrifts. The race was almost halted by the harsh winter of 1947 were it not for a local farmer who led a horse around the course, ensuring that the historic race would survive. The race normally takes 10 minutes to complete, but the farmer, contending with 4 feet (1.2 m) snowdrifts, took 1 hour and 20 minutes to finish the course.

During the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in 2001 the race was once again reduced to one horse and rider. In 2018 the race was cancelled after the course was waterlogged, and again a single horse was led round the course. More recently during the COVID-19 pandemic the event was technically not raced, but the course was hacked by John Thirsk on ‘Harry’ and Stephen Crawford on ‘Ferkin’ in both 2020 and 2021 to keep the tradition alive. They were weighed in by starter, Richard Hilaby, and Clerk of the Course, Susan Hilaby, read them an abridged version of the rules as usual.

Each time, the community’s determination preserved the tradition, to not only to ensure the race’s unbroken sequence was maintained but to also ensure that the race could be run again in the future.

Notable Participants and Records

Over the years, the Derby has seen a variety of participants, from seasoned jockeys to local amateurs, all drawn by the race’s historic charm.

Ken Homes, a flat and national hunt jockey, holds the record for most wins with 10 victories between 1983 and 2002. He also placed second five times and third three times. Before Homes, it is said that no rider had won more than six times.

More recently, Jason Carver, won the 2023 race on his veteran steed, Start Me Up while in 2024 Julie Campbell won on Merlin. This mix of professional and amateur riders adds a unique flavour to the event, emphasising its accessibility and community spirit.

Preservation of Tradition

The Derby not only highlights the competitive spirit of the participants but also acts as a focal point for community pride and cultural preservation. Each year, the race attracts hundreds of spectators who line the rural course, cheering on competitors racing across the rugged Yorkshire landscape. This annual gathering is a significant event for the local community, reinforcing bonds and ensuring the continuation of this historical event.

The Role of the Community

The local trustees and longstanding supporters of the Derby play a crucial role in its organisation and execution. Their efforts ensure that the race adheres to its traditional rules and spirit, fostering a sense of continuity. The community’s active participation is instrumental in maintaining the race’s status as a cultural and sporting highlight of the region.

Unique Aspects of the Kiplingcotes Derby

Non-Standard Race Track

One of the most distinctive features of the Kiplingcotes Derby is its unconventional race track. Unlike standard horse races conducted on well-maintained tracks, the Derby is run along four miles of varied terrain, including public roads, rugged country lanes, and farm tracks. This not only challenges the riders and their mounts but also adds a raw, unpredictable edge to the race with roots in point-to-point racing. Unlike point-to-point racing though, there are no jumps.

Open Entry and Diverse Competitors

The Kiplingcotes Derby is unique in its lack of formal entry barriers. Any jockey weighing at least 140 lbs (63.5 kg) can enter by simply showing up on the morning of the race and paying a £5 entrance fee. This openness makes the Derby accessible to a wide range of competitors, from seasoned professionals to local amateurs. The variety of horses participating—from retired racehorses to sturdier farm breeds—further adds to the inclusive and diverse atmosphere of the event. That said, organisers recommend that riders need to be a very experienced and with a fit horse as they will be required to hack 4.5 miles (7.2 km) to the start and gallop the same distance back.

Riders on horseback wait to hack off to the start line for the 505th Kiplingcotes Derby in 2024. Held in the Yorkshire Wolds near Market Weighton, the Derby is the oldest horse race the world. — Participants wait to hack off to the start line for the 505th Kiplingcotes Derby in 2024. Held in the Yorkshire Wolds near Market Weighton, the Derby is the oldest horse race the world.

Unusual Prize Distribution

Perhaps the most unusual aspect of the Kiplingcotes Derby is its prize distribution, where the second-place finisher often receives more money than the winner. The winner takes home a fixed sum (around £50), while the runner-up is awarded the remainder of the entrance fees, which can amount to a larger sum depending on the number of entries. This quirky rule adds an additional layer of strategy and excitement to the race, as competitors may adjust their tactics based on the potential financial outcome.

Kiplingcotes Derby 2024 winner, Julie Campbell, receives her silver trophy from East Riding of Yorkshire High Sheriff, Tina Cerutti.

Community and Tradition

The Kiplingcotes Derby is deeply embedded in the local community and tradition. The event is not just about horse racing; it is a social occasion that brings together people from across the region. The reading of the race rules at the starting post, the communal atmosphere among spectators, and the shared anticipation of the outcome all contribute to a festive, communal spirit. This sense of community is pivotal in preserving the Derby’s traditional character and ensuring its continuation through generations.

Attending the Kiplingcotes Derby: A Spectator’s Guide

Overview

If you’re planning to witness the historical Kiplingcotes Derby, this guide provides all the essential information you’ll need to enjoy this unique event as a spectator. Known for its rich tradition and community spirit, the Derby offers an experience unlike any other horse race in Britain.

The best place to stand is the finish line at Londsbrough Wold Farm near the village of Warter. You’ll get to see the weighing in, the reading of the rules and, above all, the dash to winning post. There is no parking or facilities at the starting point.

Costs

Attending the Derby as a spectator is completely free, making it an accessible event for everyone. There’s no charge for viewing the race, and free on-field parking is available. You might want to bring some cash for collection buckets, refreshments or to have a bet on the race.

Facilities

Don’t expect grandstands or other facilities; this is horse racing at its most basic, but then that’s all part of the charm. You’re basically going to be standing on a country road.

There is a stall selling hot and cold drinks, bacon butties and sausage sarnies and a bookie’s stall but there are no toilets, no seating and no cover.

What To Bring

It’s March in Yorkshire so be prepared for all sorts of weather! Check the forecast before leaving the house, but bring. It’s a walk from the parking in the field so wear comfortable boots or wellies if it’s been at all wet in the lead up to the day.

Punters crowd round a bookie under an umbrella at the Kiplingcotes Derby. An electronic board show the runners, riders and latest odds. — Spectators who like a flutter can even have a punt at the Kiplingcotes Derby.

There’s a bit of hanging around waiting for the racers to reach the finishing line so if standing for a period of time is an issue then consider bring folding chairs, but remember that you’ll have to carry them from the car park.

The event is suitable for children, though as it is invariable run during term time on a school day only pre-school children will usually be free to attend.

Dogs are welcome if kept on a lead.

Accessibility

The race course itself runs through country lanes and across fields, which can present accessibility challenges, especially in wet conditions when the ground may be muddy. However, the starting area and the finish line, where most spectators gather, are more accessible. Visitors with mobility issues are advised to contact the event organisers ahead of time to arrange for the best possible access.

Travel to the Race

By Car

The Kiplingcotes Derby takes place near Market Weighton in East Yorkshire. For those traveling by car, the event is easily accessible via the A1079, which connects Hull and York.

The designated free on-field car park is approximately 4 miles (7 km) North of Market Weighton off the A614.

Do not expect local signs to guide you to the event site.

If you search the Kiplingcotes Derby on Google Maps it will send you to the starting point of the race (as we found to our cost!) so we recommend that instead you use the address Londesborough Wold Farm, YO43 3LS. This applies If you’re using Sat Nav too.

If you use What3words the applicable words for the Kiplingcotes Derby are:

Starting point harp.flags.voltages.
Parking is tanks.clan.launcher.
Finishing line is northward.glaze.doing.

Public Transport

For those relying on public transport, the nearest railway station is Beverley, served by Northern Rail trains on the Hull to Scarborough line, while York is the closest major railway station. Click for train times.

You can then travel on to Market Weighton from both Beverley (22 minutes) and York (1 hour) via East Yorkshire Buses X46/X47 service. You would then take a short taxi ride to the race site. It’s advisable to check the latest transport schedules and plan your journey in advance, as bus services to rural areas can be infrequent. Click for X46/X47 timetable.

Walk the Route of the Kiplincotes Derby

You could start this walk from the village of Goodmanham at 9.30am and be at the finishing line in time to see the winner come home. Alternatively, if you can’t make it on race day it’s still a lovely walk through the timeless Yorkshire Wolds landscape.

From the Goodmannam Arms pub, in Goodmanham, turn right along the Yorkshire Wolds way and then left along the Hudson way, along a disused railway line. At the former Kiplingcotes Station bear left and dog-leg across the crossroads.

After about 500m, turn right at the crossroads to the start line for the race where you’ll find a small marker stone on the grass verge that signifies the starting point. Retrace your steps to the crossroads, go straight ahead for four miles, crossing the A614 to the finishing post.

Return across the A614 and after two miles, turn right at the cross-roads past Goodmanham Wold Farm to Goodmanham.

Total distance is about 12.5 miles (20km) and you should allow 4-5 hours depending on your walking speed.

Leaving Goodmanham I followed lanes that slice through high, flat country before dipping down to a dale and following a path along a disused rail line. There were glimpses of the original chalk grasslands that were once widespread, and the birds include screeching yellowhammers. Hedgerows were made up of lovely blackthorn brambles.

You can find a Google Maps route of the walk here.

Discovering More About Market Weighton

Market Weighton, a charming market town in the East Riding of Yorkshire, serves as a gateway to the magnificent Yorkshire Wolds. With its friendly atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and convenient location, it offers a delightful mix of rural tranquility and accessibility to major attractions.

You can discover more with our Market Weighton visitors guide , our Explore the Yorkshire Wolds Travel Guide and our Discover the East Riding of Yorkshire Travel Guide.

The Kiplingcotes Derby: The 500 Year History of the World’s Oldest Horse Race