Across the globe, horse racing events captivate audiences with their thrilling races, rich history, and prestigious traditions. From the iconic Kentucky Derby in the United States to the prestigious Royal Ascot in England, these events showcase the world’s finest horses, jockeys, and trainers.
This article explores some of the most renowned horse racing events, each offering its unique blend of excitement and spectacle. Join us as we journey through these celebrated races, highlighting their significance in equestrian sports, horse race betting, and more.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or simply curious about the allure of these events, discover the magic and prestige that define the best horse racing events around the globe.
Kentucky Derby
When people think about the best horse racing events worldwide, the first one they think about is the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is one of the world’s most prestigious and well-known horse racing events, and it is located in Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Typically, the type of horse racing you will find here is thoroughbred horse racing, which is held annually on the first Saturday in May. These horses run on a dirt track and require a minimum age qualification of three years old.
The Kentucky Derby began on May 17, 1875, and today has over 150,000 spectators, making it one of the most attended horse races in North America. Can you find incredible fashion, plenty of betting, and large prizes to be won?
Grand National
Next on our list of the best horse racing events is the Grand National. Located at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool in England, it is held annually on the first Saturday in April. The Grand National is a national hunt horse race, also known as a steeplechase, and it is approximately 4 miles long.
Horses must be over seven years old and meet certain criteria, such as performance in other qualifying races, to qualify for this race. The Grand National began in 1839 but today has an average attendance of over 70,000 spectators on race day.
In addition, the race is broadcast on live TV across the UK and worldwide. One of the more notable aspects of this race is the fashion. The day before the Grand National is Lady’s Day for fashion and style competitions.
Dubai World Cup
Moving on down our list, we have the Dubai World Cup. The Dubai World Cup is one of the most prestigious horse racing events globally and is known for its high stakes and luxurious setting.
The Dubai World Cup is held at Meydan Racecourse in Dubai. It is held annually on the last Saturday in March. Like the Kentucky Derby, the Dubai World Cup is a thoroughbred horse race approximately 2 kilometers long on a dirt track. Horses from the northern hemisphere need to be four years or older, and horses from the southern hemisphere need to be three years older.
This race was first held on March 27, 1996, making it one of the newer horse races. It attracts tens of thousands of spectators, especially high-profile international guests who are looking to bet big money.
Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot is yet another one of the most prestigious and historic horse racing events in the world. It is also known for its high fashion, royal patronage, and top-class racing. The Royal Ascot is located at the Ascot racecourse in Berkshire, England. The event is held annually in the middle of June and lasts five days.
The race was first established in 1711 by Queen Anne and is still attended by members of the British royal family who arrive in a royal procession daily. There’s a strict dress code, especially in the royal enclosure, where men wear morning suits and top hats and women wear formal day dresses and hats.
This race attracts around 300,000 spectators across the five days, and additional spectators who watch it on live broadcast TV, all live streamed globally.
