There is something about horse racing as a sport that is very appealing to most people all around the world. I’ve seen people who don’t know much about sports, but they still get excited every time they see horses run around the track.
I don’t know what it is. Whether it is the brand awareness that horse racing has, the fashion, the adrenaline rush, or the betting, or maybe it is all the things combined that make it an unforgettable experience.
Another great thing about horse racing is the diversity. Unlike other sports where there are certain leagues popular in different regions, horse racing is a global sport. What started in the UK as a sport reserved for the elite quickly took over the world, and it is easy to see why.
Now, we have countries like the United States, Australia, China, Japan, France, England, and many others that host incredibly exciting horse racing events that attract some of the fastest horses with their big prize purses.
Who knew that horses had an incredible smell of money, right? So, you are a horse racing enthusiast and you are planning a trip that makes the handicapper in you excited. Which places should be on your bucket list? Here’s a suggestion.
Kentucky Derby: The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports
We start with an obvious one – The Kentucky Derby. I’d argue that this is the most popular horse race on the planet. This year we’ve witnessed the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby and it was truly a spectacle.
The Kentucky Derby is much more than just a horse race. After all, there is a reason why all wealthy people and A-list celebrities attend the event.
The prize purses are good, but we are not talking about the richest race. There are others that hand out more money. However, the Kentucky Derby has always been the most prestigious race that every racehorse owner wants to win.
Melbourne Cup: The Race That Stops a Nation
We are not moving to the down under, in no particular order, where we have Australia’s biggest race – the Melbourne Cup. This race is so big that is considered a national event in the country, and it is held on the first Tuesday in November at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.
This is a bigger race than the Kentucky Derby (3,200-meter handicap), with a prize purse of $8 million AUD. No wonder why many racehorse owners want to participate in it.
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe: Europe’s Prestigious Turf Battle
Over in Europe, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, held at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, is the continent’s crown jewel. With a hefty prize purse of over €5 million, this Group 1 race draws top horses and jockeys from around the globe.
Held every first Sunday in October, the race is as much about prestige as it is about skill, showcasing the finest thoroughbreds racing across 2,400 meters of lush Parisian turf.
Saratoga Racecourse: The Summer Place to Be
Located in Saratoga Springs, New York, Saratoga Racecourse is one of the oldest and most famous racetracks in the United States.
Known for its summer meet, which runs from late July through Labor Day, Saratoga hosts prestigious races such as the Travers Stakes and the Whitney Handicap. The track’s historic charm, coupled with its high-quality racing, makes it a favorite destination for racing fans and families alike
Dubai World Cup: The Richest Race on the Planet
The Middle East hosts the richest horse race in the world: the Dubai World Cup. With an astounding $30.5 million USD up for grabs, this race is held at the state-of-the-art Meydan Racecourse in Dubai every March.
The Dubai World Cup attracts a high-profile audience, including celebrities and royalty, making it as much about glitz and glamour as it is about equine excellence. The race covers 2,000 meters and features top thoroughbreds from all over the world.
Royal Ascot: A Festival of Elegance and Speed
Back to the UK, the Royal Ascot, held annually at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England, is a five-day festival featuring some of the most prestigious races, including the Ascot Gold Cup and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.
Known for its pageantry, the event attracts the royal family and a plethora of fashionistas, with prize money across the meeting totaling over £10 million. The Royal Ascot is more than just a series of races; it’s a cultural event that combines tradition with top-tier racing.
Breeders’ Cup Classic: North America’s Championship Finale
The Breeders’ Cup Classic is the pinnacle of North American racing, held at various locations across the U.S. every November. With a prize purse of $33 million USD across all races, this event attracts elite horses aged three and up from around the world.
The Breeders’ Cup is unique for its “win and you’re in” series, where horses qualify through various races leading up to the event. This makes the Breeders’ Cup a true test of skill, endurance, and strategy.
Grand National: The Ultimate Test of Stamina and Skill
Last but certainly not least, the Grand National, held at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, England, is legendary for its challenging course.
Spanning 4 miles and 514 yards with 30 fences to jump, this race is a test of endurance and daring. Known for its unpredictability, the Grand National captivates millions of viewers worldwide and offers a purse of £750,000. It’s a race where underdogs often triumph, adding to its appeal and mystique.
