A mixture of awe and glory, horse racing events are a thrilling experience for viewers and bettors alike. We are happy to introduce the top 10 major horse racing tournaments worldwide. They attract horse racing aficionados from all over the world, like bees to honey.
The Kentucky Derby (USA)
The history of the Kentucky Derby goes back to 1875, which makes it the longest-running sporting event in the States. A two-minute race that has always been held at Churchill Downs, it is the first leg of the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing. The Kentucky Derby attracts spectators from all around the world for a week of festivities, thrills, and tension that culminates on the first Saturday in May (with a couple of exceptions only due to force-majeure mishaps).
This derby is a paradise for punters who love placing their wagers on their favorite horses and jockeys. You can bet on this sport with all decent bookies worldwide. For example, 1xBet offers online horse races and loads of betting markets.
The Grand National (UK)
Some say the Grand National is the most thrilling horse racing event worldwide. It takes place annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, and the horses must leap over fences and ditches. Yay, exciting, right? While the jockeys cover themselves in glory, the horses cover themselves in mud.
This race is specifically popular with bettors since the horses are often winning at high odds. Live betting looks especially yummy here — the long-distance track is filled with numerous obstacles that can change the course of the race at any point. This type of track is called steeplechase.
The Royal Ascot (UK)
This annual race, which takes place in June at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, has been a super-major event on the British social calendar since its creation by Queen Anne in 1711. In 1768, the race expanded to four days due to its growing popularity and scale, and it has stayed that way ever since.
The event still continues to be a wonderful mix of glamour, tradition, style, and, of course, sport. The Royal Meeting continues to be the main attraction at the Ascot racecourse. During the four-day Royal Ascot event, the Queen’s Royal Standard is raised when members of the British Royal Family arrive in a horse-drawn carriage and begin the day’s racing with the Royal Procession. For some, it is a more meaningful part of the event than the race itself!
The Melbourne Cup (Australia)
Horse racing has always been an important part of Australian sports culture after the Europeans arrived in the country.
Launched in 1861, the Melbourne Cup is held on the first Tuesday of November at Flemington Racecourse and covers a distance of 3,200 meters. It is the most sparkling of all the Flemington races. This annual event draws in thousands of people, including a great deal of celebrities.
Melbourne is a blast at this time of year! The weather in November is perfect for a quick visit to breathe in the amazing vibe of the race.
The Dubai World Cup (UAE)
The Dubai World Cup, regarded as the world’s most chic race, draws celebrities, aristocracy, and racing fans from all over the world. The event is noteworthy for its hedonistic agenda and lavish atmosphere, in addition to the hefty USD 30 million in prize money.
The Dubai World Cup is a patchwork of fashion, excellent food, and networking opportunities. The only drawback is the never-ending heat running make-ups and hairstyles of fashionistas.
The Preakness Stakes (USA)
The Preakness Stakes is the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown. It is held in Baltimore two weeks following the Kentucky Derby. Of course, it is not just a race but more like a full-day event packed with music gigs, food specialties, drinks, and shopping options.
According to the management, the Preakness Stakes is a huge fashion event where people always dress up and show their best outfits. The races have 30-minute intervals so that the guests have time to taste local Baltimore specialties (including absolutely delish crab cakes), sip a signature cocktail called the Black-Eyed Susan (watch out, strong booze inside!), and shop for cozy branded hoodies.
The Belmont Stakes (USA)
This race is another big-league tournament in the States. It is part of the Triple Crown series along with the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The event takes place on the second Saturday of June at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York.
The Belmont Stakes is one of the most historically significant thoroughbred races in the world. It was first run in 1867 and is named after a sportsman called August Belmont. The race caps the Triple Crown and is considered the most demanding tournament of the three. No wonder it is also known as the Test of the Champion.
The Breeders’ Cup (USA)
The Breeders’ Cup was introduced in the 1980s. It is a die-for destination for American horse racing enthusiasts. The details of the Cup were projected by a renowned breeder, John Gaines, who intended to create a year-end racing championship in North America. His concept was to bring together the best horses from across the world for a single, high-stakes racing day. Despite the pinch of salt expressed by the community, the idea eventually gained traction and turned out to be a blast.
The debut Breeders’ Cup took place on November 10, 1984, in warm and sunny California. The event, which featured seven races with a USD 10 million total payout, drew a cool crowd of viewers with high-profile horses and jockeys on the track. The event is now a top-tier racing competition that takes place in different locations in the United States.
The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (France)
Since its launch in 1920, this race has always taken place at Paris’s Longchamp Racecourse. Often called the “Arc,” it is an extremely well-known and highly respected horse race for all ages that takes place every October.
It’s not really just a horse race, to be honest. For visitors, it is an amazing cultural experience and a perfect chance to enjoy Paris in autumn. The French cuisine delicacies and fine wines available on the grounds will amaze foodies and their palates.
The Epsom Derby (UK)
An iconic horse racing event, the Epsom Derby has a long and glorious history that dates back to 1780. The event attracts flat racing fans from all over the world to the legendary Epsom Downs every year. Blessed by the lovely Surrey countryside, the racecourse offers a breathtaking setting for media coverage and an amazing view for the guests. The start of the race is always marked by the famous “Derby Roar” generated by the excited crowd.
Conclusion
Horse racing is often associated with luxury, style, and old money. And it is not without a reason! These tournaments are always packed with thrill and extravaganza. Above, we highlighted a few of the top horse racing competitions. If you don’t have the chance to attend in person, you may watch them live online and place your bets from your cozy home.
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