Elitloppet is a trotting event where horses pull a lightweight two-wheeled carriage, known as a sulky, with the driver sitting behind them. Unlike in traditional horse racing, the horses must trot rather than gallop, which makes the races surprisingly tactical and full of strategy.
The last weekend of May is a “save the date” moment in the calendar of every horse racing lover in the Nordics. Or any bon vivant who enjoys a sunny drink outdoors with a gorgeous backdrop. Because the ongoing races are one hell of a backdrop.
My conclusion is that there is absolutely no need to be a horse-racing connoisseur involved in the intricate web of the competition scene to have fun at the event. The organisers have put in a solid effort to make the three days as approachable as possible, from free digital programmes with detailed information about every race and competitor to clear signage and information points onsite.
Whether you decide to place a bet or simply keep a mental score in your head, it is fascinating to watch thousands of people fall silent as the contenders approach the finish line, only to erupt into cheering moments later. Even the least competitive visitors may feel an urge to jump on the cheering train and stand up.
My personal favourite part was the defilering of the horses before the races. As they warm up and trot in front of the audience, it is the perfect moment to pick a favourite and get invested in the outcome.
Rest assured that the format is flexible enough to suit different budgets and ways of enjoying the day. You can settle into the main stands and grab food and drinks from the food trucks and bars, bring your own chair, have a picnic in the fan zone while watching the races on the big screen, stay around the bar area or book a trackside table in one of the restaurants.
The overall atmosphere just invites you to look around and notice the people around you: practical experienced bettors with no time to lose, family gatherings with kids running around, the classy guys in linen suits on the day out, the rowdy fans in sports jerseys cheering their hearts out, a napping grandad in a wide-brimmed hat waiting for His Race to start, a birthday celebration among long-time girlfriends, fully invested family members in the first row… All so different, yet all so connected by one event! After all, any event is worth attending if it gives you a reason to spend time with people you care about.
The dress code has historically been an important part of racing events. While it may be tempting to channel your inner English aristocrat with a whimsical hat, Elitloppet feels much more laid-back and Scandi. The sacred 2000s tradition of wearing pink on Wednesday still stands.
However, with Solvalla dressed in pink, it felt like the perfect excuse to bring out the most Barbiecore item from the back of your wardrobe. I still remember the fun, loud group of girls wearing bright pink dresses and cheering like there was no tomorrow.
On Sunday, the main race took place with a whopping SEK 5 million prize. By the time the weekend’s highlight finally began, the anticipation had built up enough to make even casual visitors feel invested. Even for non-racing fans, the excitement was heightened by a world record being set. Allegiant, driven by Örjan Kihlström and trained by Daniel Redén, recorded a time of 1:07.11 over 1,609 metres.
Now that you know the basics, save the date for next year and bring a few friends. Even if you arrive knowing little about trotting, chances are you will leave having picked a favourite horse, cheered at least once and spent a pleasant day in the sun.
All photos are courtesy of Solvalla’s Instagram page.
