Ep 4. The First King of Racing

The show Time Team provides insight on some of the most fascinating historical sites in Britain. In season 19 episode 4, titled The First King of Racing, the team investigates the origins of horseracing in Newmarket, the world-renowned horseracing center. The team investigates two locations that are thought to be the birthplace of organized horseracing. The first location is the Palace of Charles II, which was a royal residence. The king himself was known to be an avid horse racer and famously referred to Newmarket as "the headquarters of the turf."

The second site the team investigates is Warren Hill, a steep incline that overlooks the town. It is believed to be the site of the first ever organized race meeting back in the 17th century. The team believes that the race course could have been used to train horses for battle, and eventually led to the birth of the sport.

The show's presenter, Tony Robinson, guides the team through the investigation. He enlists the help of various historians and sports experts to piece together the story of how horseracing became the massive industry it is today. The team uses ground-penetrating radar and other advanced technologies to uncover evidence of structures that may have been used for racing.

Throughout the episode, the team uncovers several fascinating artifacts, including old horseshoes, metal stirrups, and even a wooden horses' head believed to be from a training carousel. The team also speaks with members of the horseracing community to get their take on the sport's history and cultural significance.

The team's investigation leads them to an amazing discovery which will help shed light on the origins of modern horseracing. Throughout the episode, viewers are sure to gain a new appreciation for this beloved British pastime. Time Team season 19 episode 4 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of horseracing or the cultural heritage of Britain.