Famous Horse Races Of The World

The excitement and thrill that famous horse races and horseracing films provide is unique to that sport. It is one of the most ancient of all sports and has remained largely unchanged since the earliest times.

The Cheltenham Festival begins in early March every year at Prestbury Park bringing together some of the best jockeys, horses and trainers in the world.

The event takes place over four days with each day having a different name and its own unique specialities. The Gold Cup is its most famous race while other races like the Champion Chase, World Hurdle and Champion Hurdle are also well-known.

Visitors flock from around the world to enjoy the racing and place their horse racing bets.

Famous Horse Races No 1 - Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown series. Every year over 150,000 spectators descend on Churchill Downs in order to watch this historic event, the Kentucky Derby. Its attendance ranks first in North America.

Unlike some other races, the Kentucky Derby has been run every year since 1875. The race lasts no more than two minutes and is thus known in the US as the "The Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports."

On crossing the finish line, the winning horse is draped in an elaborate garland of roses. That is why, it is also called "The Run for the Roses."

Famous Horse Races No 2 - The Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the American Triple Crown series which is held in May each year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The race has witnessed some changes since it was first run in 1873, however there are many traditions which remain the same.

The winner receives a grand silver trophy and his horse is draped in a flower blanket of black eyed susans. Tickets for the event can be purchased for under $100 and racegoers will often wear bright colors and eccentric hats. Concerts and other events take place before the racing and the beer flows freely throughout the day.

Famous Horse Races No 3 - Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe

The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in Europe. It is simply known as the Arc and takes place on the first Sunday of October at Longchamp Racecourse in France, attracting thousands of spectators.

Its prize money is one of the highest in the racing world due to its affiliation with the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club. Visitors are entertained with jazz bands and the champagne flows free.

Famous Horse Races No 4 - Royal Ascot

Since 1711 Royal Ascot has been a part of the British horse racing tradition. It was founded by Queen Anne and now it is attended every year by Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal Family. It is a racing festival that lasts for about a week with 16 exciting group races.

Depending on where you are sitting that day, you may have to abide by a strict dress code. However attractions to enjoy include the Royal Procession (where the Queen and her entourage drive in horse drawn carriages along part of the course to take their places in the Royal Enclosure), the Military Bands and a plethora of food stalls.

Famous Horse Races No 5 - The Grand National

The Grand National is considered the most valuable and prestigious jump race in the world. Run every year since 1839, this racing event attracts a huge crowd to the Aintree racecourse where the best horses, jockeys and trainers compete for a first prize of £500,000. The horses race over a strength sapping 4 miles 2 ½ f over 30 of the most daunting jumps to be found anywhere. The race is the highlight of a three day Festival which culminates on a Saturday in early April.

Blue Diamond Stakes

Japan Cup

Pegasus World Cup

2022 Flat Racing Season

Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

Horse Racing Comebacks

Winning the Grand National 2022

Hennessey Gold Cup