It’s not the same as show jumping, dressage or hunter competitions, but horse racing is the number one equestrian event. Whether you are a rider or not, discover the historic races of the United States, whose tradition dates back to 1665. Today, no less than thirty-two states hold horse races throughout the year.
The essential: the Triple Crown
The Triple Crown series takes place each year in May and June. This three-race series consists of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore, Maryland, and the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park Racetrack in Elmont, New York. To win the title of Triple Crown Champion, a three-year-old horse must win all three “jewels” in the series. To date, only twelve horses have accomplished this feat, including the famous Secretariat, who holds the record for the fastest time in the Kentucky Derby at 1 minute and 59.4 seconds. There are also a number of pre-race events in Preakness. These include the Pre-Preakness Party and the Infield Fest, which includes live music. This is a great opportunity to have a good time with the family around the horse. The Breeder’s Cup Classic has an unique concept as it is held at a different racecourse every year. The horses that compete in the race must qualify in races that take place around the world. Finally, the Travers Stakes, with an allowance of 1,250,000 is runon dirt at Saratoga Raceway in New York.
Other popular races in the world
In many countries, race attracts tens of thousands of fans. You can simply enjoy the show but it would be a shame not to bet, you will live the race more intensely by vibrating to the rhythm of the strides of your favourite horse. You can easily find free racing tips and odds to help you. In Australia, the Melbourne Cup began in 1861 and brings the country to a complete standstill. Marketed as “the race that stops the nation”, it’s the the most prestigious 2-mile handicap in the world. Other Australian events, such as the Queen Elizabeth Stakes or the Victoria Derby, are also very popular. In France, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe horserace is held in Paris, is one of the most important races held in Europe annually. The race was named to honor the French soldiers who fought in WWI. The Prix draws in competitors from all over the world in the prestigious French horsetrack in Paris. In the UK, the race not to be missed is the historic Epsom Derby. The first race was held in 1780 and is considered to have been the model for horse races as they are known now throughout the world.
Post-race retraining programs
Some horsemen may be reluctant to go to horse races on the grounds of animal welfare. The thoroughbred is an athlete, trained and pampered, and many states have taken steps to ensure the welfare of racehorses. In addition, there are more and more programs for the reconversion of racehorses that do not go to the slaughterhouse at the end of their career. For example, at New Vocations, horses are rehabilitated and worked on for classical riding before joining their new families. Thoroughbreds are sensitive and generous horses that prove to be versatile : we are seeing more and more reformed horses in cross-country and show jumping. Some horses, not mountable, are placed for company or retirement.
