For Some, horse racing takes pride of place on the sporting calendar. Without a doubt, it provides some of the biggest spectacles in sport. Year after year, many spectators watch their favourite races from around the world – some may even have a flutter on a hot favourite. Racing takes place in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, The United States, and other great nations. The sport is worth billions and attracts a huge audience with each race. Here a glimpse at some of the World’s most famous horse races and what to expect if you get the chance to go to one.
The Grand National
Aintree is home to this famous 4-mile race that takes place every April. The course itself has 30 fences and is considered one of the toughest races in horse racing. There are the famous grandstands and top restaurants where spectators can go between races to relax, dine, have a drink, place bets, or play games. The festival lasts for three-day culminating in the Grand National. Some of the best horses and trainers attending the event.
Cheltenham Festival
Cheltenham is a big outing for all those concerned. It is one of the biggest races in the UK. Spread over four days, the festival features prize money which is divided among various Grade 1 Runnings. The main races include the Cheltenham Gold Cup – this years’ gold cup was won by Al Boum Photo – the winner can win up to £625,000. People flock from all over to attend these important races. The Cheltenham Festival sees up to 60,000 people daily.
Kentucky Derby
Every year, on the first Saturday of May, all eyes are on the famous Kentucky Derby. The race is run over 2,012m, each race attracts nearly 160,000 people. It is also famous for its “Millionaires Row”. This is where the world of celebrity assembles to watch the race. The winner is always draped in a cloak of roses – this is where it got it the name – “Run for the Roses”. In 2015, punters smashed all records when they bet around $133,000,000 on the race!
l’Arc de Triomphe
l’Arc is always eagerly awaited each year. Believed to be one of the most prestigious horse races in the racing calendar, and with a prize pot worth up to 5,000,000. This has made it one of the most famous races in the world. The race has been dominated by Frankie Dettori, his last win came in 2018. It is one of the top three richest races and is run over 2,400m. The race takes place in the Longchamp Racecourse in Paris.
Melbourne Cup
Dating back to 1861, the Melbourne Cup never fails to thrill racing fans year in and year out. It is seen as the biggest and best race found anywhere in the world. It has entrants from all over the world. The Cup is a very fashionable affair where attendees must be suited and booted. The race takes place on the first Tuesday each November. The Melbourne Cup lasts all week long, and there is much to enjoy in this ultimate racing fest.
The Grand National
Aintree is home to this famous 4-mile race that takes place every April. The course itself has 30 fences and is considered one of the toughest races in horse racing. There is the famous grandstands and top restaurants where spectators can go between races to relax, dine, have a drink, place bets, or play online on their gaming smartphones. The festival lasts for three-day culminating in the Grand National. Some of the best horses and trainers attending the event.
