Horse racing
Spectacle on the sandy beach of Ribadesella
Thus, thousands of people flock to the Santa Marina beach promenade, lined with colorful colonial-style mansions, to participate in a sport brought to life by internationally renowned figures. The riders, renowned for their skill, ride purebred Arabian and English horses, as well as English crossbreeds, establishing different categories and disciplines that enhance the event.
The raw power of the horses galloping across the sandy shore of Ribadesella is so unique that it attracts both seasoned enthusiasts and those who have never experienced horse racing before. The sound of their hooves on the sand, the commotion, the tension, the magic emanating from the panoramic view that spectators enjoy from the promenade overlooking the beach—all of this transforms the race into an event that transcends mere sporting classifications.
The Ribadesella horse race has established itself as a leading sporting event. Therefore, each year the Town Hall, which organizes the race, works to enhance this event, which coincides with Good Friday each year.
Origin and tradition
Tradition tells that, in the 18th century, Ribadesella beach and the mouth of its port were used for smuggling goods. To evade the authorities at night, swift horses were used, preferably black to blend into the darkness. This clandestine activity fostered a local passion for fast horses and informal races.
In the eighties, several horse racing enthusiasts from Ribadesella, reminiscing about those times, would place bets on which of their horses would be the fastest on a course along Santa Marina Beach, taking advantage of the good tides and the absence of bathers on the sand during the first months of the year.
From that emerged a tradition that, over time, grew increasingly popular and important. What began as an activity for the residents of Ribadesella who loved horsemanship, with the exclusive participation of local riders, gradually evolved, increasing both the number and quality of participating horses. Stables from other Asturian municipalities, neighboring autonomous communities, and even international sources such as Portugal and southern France joined the competition, transforming it into a leading equestrian event in northern Spain. In this context, modern horse races on Santa Marina beach have been held continuously since 1989.
The setting in which they are held makes these horse races some of the most unique in our country, as there are very few equestrian events that take place on such a spectacular beach as Santa Marina in Ribadesella, which, by having a promenade elevated above the sand, allows the public to have a perfect view of the entire course.
The races are run on an out-and-back course, with turns that add a greater degree of excitement to the event and allow spectators to witness the skill of the riders. This unique feature has made them one of the sporting events in eastern Asturias that draws the largest crowds.