The history of racing in Madras dates back to 1777 when 81 cawnies of land from Adayar villages of Venkatapuram and Velacheri was granted by the Goverment to conduct races. A letter dated 22nd June 1825 written by then Collector of Chingleput mentions the direct grant of land.

Racing soon suffered a set back for some years following political turmoil.Hyder Ali invaded the province and it became uncertain.

An additional area of 36 cawnies was added to the original 81 cawnies. There were then two race cources - a small one for training horses and a big one with grand stand to watch the races.

In 1837, a Club was formed and it functioned till 1875, when the prince of Wales Edward VII visited Madras. Once again, racing suffered a set back till 1887 for financial reasons.

The Trades Cup formed part of the racing programme before 100 years proving that the traders patronised the Sport of Kings.

However,in 1887 to revive the club, a public meeting was called by Lt.Col.G.M.Moore, one of the Stewards. The meeting was presided over by the Governor. At this meeting, new Stewards were appointed to run the Club.It took over the balance of 11 rupees,new Stewards were appointed to run the Club. It took over the balance of 11 rupees, 13 annas and 12 paisa from the previous club. As a result, a properly constituted Race club with 50 Members was formed in January 1896. The funds managed by the Stewards of the Madras Races were handed over to the Madras Race Club. So from 1896, the Madras Race Club came into existence, although the club Rules have been modified from time to time.