Harness Racing in Les Andelys, Normandy
After a couple of days in Rouen, we felt like going to a local harness-racing event. As usual, Finn is well-informed about happenings on the trotting scene, and today there’s a race on a grass track just outside the small town of Les Andelys. The town, about 35 km southeast of Rouen, is perhaps best known for Château Gaillard, a fortress built during Richard the Lionheart’s era, around 1200 AD. nouvelle-normandie-tourisme.com+10reiserogferier.no+10reiserogferier.no+10
Courses Andelys Vexin — Hippodrome Les Andelys
If you’re headed there, search for Courses Andelys Vexin on the map; on race days, signs read Hippodrome Les Andelys. Drive carefully—you might miss the signs otherwise.
It’s been 13 years since I first attended harness races in France; that time we were in Cabourg. The contrast to the conditions in Norway is quite significant. This track sits in the middle of nowhere, yet draws a larger crowd than many major races back home.
There’s a bouncy castle, a ‘restaurant tent’ serving three-course dinners, a sausage stand, and even a dedicated bar for drivers.
We started by strolling through the “horse ring” where trailers and boxes are lined up, and saddled horses are hitched to vehicles or tied up. There are no mounting stalls, and the washing facilities are all outdoors.
The crowd kept streaming in, the small grandstand filled quickly, and behind it, a betting hall was buzzing with activity. Horse and driver gear were even being sold straight from a truck.
Prize Money That Would Make a Norwegian Envious!
For those used to Norwegian purses, it’s hard not to feel a bit envious: the first prize here is €8 500—around NOK 100 000—for a regular Sunday race. Back in Norway, Definitif won at Momarken yesterday, netting us NOK 16 000 for first place. But a win is a win—no matter where! reiserogferier.no
The Racing Experience and Gourmet Meal
After watching a couple of races, we made our way to the pop-up restaurant, where the tables were set with real porcelain and stemmed glasses. The starter was scallop tartare on pea purée. The main course offered a choice of cod or chicken with rice and asparagus. Dessert featured nougat with raspberry sauce. Definitely nothing like what you’d find at a Norwegian racetrack!
Exploring the Town of Les Andelys
Since you’re in the area, be sure to visit the town itself. It’s an idyllic little place right by the Seine, with charming streets and plenty of local atmosphere.
Summary
- What: Local harness racing with a festive, community atmosphere.
- Where: Grass track outside Les Andelys (search for Courses Andelys Vexin / Hippodrome Les Andelys).
- Prize: First place awards approx. €8 500 (~NOK 100 000).
- Experience: Genuine racing village feel, full facilities, and a surprising three-course meal.
- Town: Les Andelys is a scenic riverside town—well worth exploring after the races.
