Oh yes, definitely!
When I was younger....much younger...now I have no interest whatsoever and don't even listen to the Melbourne Cup any more--sad to get old and boring!
I used to work at a place where the boss' best friend was a bookmaker. We used to go to the races a lot during this time, and I also went sometimes into the then TAB.
Also my Dad was a horse racing man and listened and bet (over the phone) so many years ago and every Saturday so I grew up knowing about horse racing and betting. At the time it really annoyed me every Saturday!