Jumping clinic with international show jumper Laura Kennedy
Saturday 16 November 2024
As one of the most thrilling spectator sports around, horse racing has been popular for centuries. There's something a little special about a day at the races that simply can't be matched by any other sport. With the excitement and entertainment coming in equal measure, there's no wonder that the popularity of the sport continues to grow.
So, if you could attend any horse race in the world, where should you be heading? Here’s our take on the top 10 biggest horse races that you really must see.
Additionally, if you enjoy the thrill of sports bet, these events also offer some of the most exciting and lucrative opportunities for placing wagers, adding another layer of excitement to the experience.
What makes this one of the biggest races in the world? Well, made up of a series of races over the course of 4 days this event draws in millions of viewers from around the world. Thousands and thousands of fans attend in person to get in on the action and Cheltenham Festival betting reaches hundreds of millions of pounds every year.
There can't be mention of the biggest horse races in the world without including the Kentucky Derby. This is a race that attracts the rich and famous, as well as your everyday racing fan. Looking to get in on the action here? You’ll need to head to Louisville in May to witness the results first hand.
The Royal Ascot is seen as the UK answer to the Kentucky Derby. This is another 4-day event that attracts thousands of spectators. One thing you’ll notice here is that the dress code is certainly on the strict side.
France is often seen as a top horse racing destination, and this Paris-based event shows us why. This is one of the best races in Europe and attracts spectators from the world over.
Made up of 14 events, each with 14 starters, this is a horse race for purebreds. With 2 days full of action, the prize money stands at an impressive $30 million plus.
For more than 140 years, New York has played host to the Belmont Stakes. This is the final stage of the Triple Crown, and it always has the potential to lead to some significant financial wins.
This top horse race takes place each year on the third weekend in May. As the second stage of the Triple Crown, there's plenty to get excited about here and it stands as one of the most popular racing events in the US.
Coming in at 2 miles long, with 30 obstacles for the horses to clear, the Grand National has long been a firm favourite for horse racing fans. What makes this race so interesting is that it’s open to amateurs too.
This race first took place back in 1861 and has been a firm favourite in Australia ever since. It’s not just a big deal for Australians as people flock from around the globe to get in on the action.
As a relative newcomer, the Dubai World Cup first took place in 1996. It has quickly established itself as a firm favourite with the horse racing world and it only continues to grow in popularity.