5 Outstanding Horse Racing Events From Around The World

5 Outstanding Horse Racing Events From Around The World

Horse racing has been a long standing tradition and is offered all around the world. Some events even date back over 150 years, such as the Grand National steeplechase which began in 1839. From the paddock to the finish line; if you love horse racing, you won’t want to miss these 5 events.

1. Kentucky Derby

Arguably the best horse race in the world, the Kentucky Derby is located in Louisville at the Churchill Downs race tracks. The race isn’t the only thing to see while visiting, Gate 1 of the historic location offers the Kentucky Derby Museum which includes 2 floors of everything horse racing, from interactive exhibits to 360 degree video presentations.

2. The Royal Ascot

This week long racing series features 16 different group races, and has been a British tradition since 1711. Even the Queen and the Royal Party attend this strictly enforced dress coded event. With a Royal Procession, Military Bands, and a variety of food options, there is plenty of pomp and circumstance at this horse racing event.

3. Santa Anita Handicap

Back in the early days of this well-known event, it was called the Hundred Grander (due to the $100,000 purse it offered). The movie Seabiscuit tells the tale of a horse (and its owner’s) quest to win the (at the time) extravagant purse. Some of racings greatest champions have raced and won this prestigious event.

4. Melbourne Cup

Since the annual Melbourne Cup Carnival began back in 1861, this annual event has been considered one of the greatest 3,200 meter horse races in the entire world. With plenty of competition (including international presence), there is plenty to see and do, including a Fashions on the Field event featuring the carnivals’ best dressed men and women.

5. Qatar Paris Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

More commonly referred to as the Arc, this horse racing event is one of the largest in Europe. With one of the largest purses in the racing world (4 million Euros), thousands of elegantly dressed spectators take to the grandstand in October to enjoy this exquisite race.