(Image via https://twitter.com/BloodHorse)
Horse racing is a popular sport in a variety of different countries around the world. The sport of kings is like no other offering around, with viewing fans creating an atmosphere like no other, especially as a particular race enters its closing stages. While some horse racing fanatics focus on domestic events, others are keen on soaking up the different all-round package on offer at other top racing venues on the planet. In fact, similar to sports like football, foreign crowds can react differently to certain events as they unfold on a racetrack. All of this, and more, make attending a race abroad hugely worthwhile.
Although the UK has plenty to offer for the average punter, with popular options including the Epsom Derby, Ascot, and the prestigious Cheltenham Festival, there are a number of other countries that do it just as good. Some races offer financial prizes that British race organisers simply can’t match, while others provide fans with a glimpse into a historic foreign race. On top of this, when it comes to catering, visitors can expect a range of unique food and drink to sample, alongside some other notable differences when compared to a race in this part of the world.
In case you fancy taking in some racing action in another country, below is a look at some of the top venues specific countries around the world have to offer.
Although horse racing is relatively new in the city, Dubai’s adoration for the sport is evident. Horse racing is popular throughout the Middle East, largely due to wealthy sheikhs and princes helping to create a number of lucrative races. For example, the Sheema Classic, which occurs on the last Saturday in March, offers a massive prize purse of $6,000,000 for the winner. Taking place at the Meydan Racecourse, which seats over 80,000 people, it’s a huge race. Other options include the Dubai World Cup, which also takes place at Meydan Racecourse and has a prize purse of an astonishing $12,000,000 up for grabs. The race, which was established in 1996, typically features horses from the UAE, UK, USA, France and Japan.
Australians love their sport, with horse racing being one of the most popular options. A beautiful country to visit in its own right, for horse racing fanatics, there are some truly iconic races and venues to sample, too. Melbourne’s Flemington Racecourse is perhaps the most iconic location in the country, with thousands of people flocking to it on the first Tuesday in November to cheer on their favourite in the Melbourne Cup. Offering a prize purse of $5,300,000 and first contested in 1861, it’s an event that horses around the world are desperate to compete in. Additionally, Sandown racecourse, which is now called Ladbrokes Park, offers year-round thoroughbred racing action on what is a specialist track. Another hugely popular option includes Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse, especially for The Everest, which offers a prize purse of $14,000,000 for the winner of the 1,200m race.
(Image via https://twitter.com/btkrausen)
The Kentucky Derby is the most prestigious horse racing competition on the planet, making the US a highly desirable location to visit for diehard punters. Taking place on the first Saturday in May, the race winner receives $3,000,000 in arguably the most famous horse race around. One of the most exciting two minutes you’ll experience in the sport, visiting Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville is essential. Other top races include the Breeders’ Cup Classic, the Preakness Stakes, the Belmont Stakes, and the Arkansas Derby.
Other countries to visit include Japan, Ireland, Canada and France.
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