EXETER

  Badges through the decades

Brief History

First evidence of racing in the vicinity of Exeter.

1738

Evidence of racing taking place at Haldon as early as this year.

1769

Although there was evidence of horse racing taking place at Devon and Exeter before this date, this is seen as the start of racing at Exeter.

1823

Sir Lawrence Palk becomes the owner of the racecourse and associated land, and later takes the title of Lord Haldon.

1826

Lord Palmerston wins both the Silver Tureen and the Devonshire Stakes.

1842

Devon and Exeter offer a very varied racecard which includes flat racing and hurdle racing; a 4 furlong sprint and a 1 mile 3 furlong hurdle race.

1898

A National Hunt meeting takes place at the present course on 21st September 1898 and the Haldon Race Club is formed.

1969

On the 3rd October Devon and Exeter celebrate its bi-centenary.

1972

Horse racing is under threat when an application is made to stage motor racing at the course. Fortunately the application is refused.