#1 Churchill Downs, USA
Churchill Downs:
Location:
Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208 Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Opened: 1875
Capacity: 170,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
Most notable race: The Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs, is considered the most famous horse race in the United States. It's a thoroughbred race with a purse of over $2 million and is known as "The Run for the Roses."
Other notable races: Churchill Downs hosts several other important horse races throughout the year, including the Kentucky Oaks, the Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Breeders' Cup.
Track characteristics: Churchill Downs has a historic and iconic track that is about 2,011 meters in length and features a dirt course and a turf course. The track is known for its sweeping turns and challenging finish, which includes a steep uphill climb to the finish line. The grandstand is a beautiful and historic structure that has undergone extensive renovations in recent years.
History: Churchill Downs has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 1870s. It has hosted some of the most important horse races in the world and has become an iconic cultural and sporting destination in Kentucky and the United States.
Overall, Churchill Downs is a historic and prestigious horse racing venue that has played a vital role in the development of horse racing in the United States. Its iconic track, beautiful grandstand, and important races make it a must-visit destination for horse racing fans.
Location:
Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208 Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Opened: 1875
Capacity: 170,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
Most notable race: The Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs, is considered the most famous horse race in the United States. It's a thoroughbred race with a purse of over $2 million and is known as "The Run for the Roses."
Other notable races: Churchill Downs hosts several other important horse races throughout the year, including the Kentucky Oaks, the Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Breeders' Cup.
Track characteristics: Churchill Downs has a historic and iconic track that is about 2,011 meters in length and features a dirt course and a turf course. The track is known for its sweeping turns and challenging finish, which includes a steep uphill climb to the finish line. The grandstand is a beautiful and historic structure that has undergone extensive renovations in recent years.
History: Churchill Downs has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 1870s. It has hosted some of the most important horse races in the world and has become an iconic cultural and sporting destination in Kentucky and the United States.
Overall, Churchill Downs is a historic and prestigious horse racing venue that has played a vital role in the development of horse racing in the United States. Its iconic track, beautiful grandstand, and important races make it a must-visit destination for horse racing fans.
#2 Ascot Racecourse UK
Ascot Racecourse:
Location: Ascot, Berkshire, England
Opened: 1711
Capacity: 70,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
The Royal Ascot, held every June, is the most prestigious horse race meeting at Ascot Racecourse. This five-day event is attended by members of the British royal family and features some of the most renowned horse races in the world, including the Queen Anne Stakes, the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, and the Gold Cup.
Ascot Racecourse also hosts several other significant horse races throughout the year, such as the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the British Champions Day, and the Commonwealth Cup.
Ascot Racecourse has a unique figure-eight track that spans about one mile and six furlongs. The track includes both a straight and round course, and the undulating terrain creates challenging races.
With a history that dates back to the early 18th century, Ascot Racecourse has played an important role in British culture and society. Since 1768, the Royal Ascot meeting has been held at Ascot Racecourse and has become a prominent social and cultural event.
Ascot Racecourse is a legendary horse racing venue that continues to attract top horses and jockeys from around the world, thanks to its unique track layout and prestigious races, and its significant role in British culture and history.
Location: Ascot, Berkshire, England
Opened: 1711
Capacity: 70,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
The Royal Ascot, held every June, is the most prestigious horse race meeting at Ascot Racecourse. This five-day event is attended by members of the British royal family and features some of the most renowned horse races in the world, including the Queen Anne Stakes, the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, and the Gold Cup.
Ascot Racecourse also hosts several other significant horse races throughout the year, such as the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, the British Champions Day, and the Commonwealth Cup.
Ascot Racecourse has a unique figure-eight track that spans about one mile and six furlongs. The track includes both a straight and round course, and the undulating terrain creates challenging races.
With a history that dates back to the early 18th century, Ascot Racecourse has played an important role in British culture and society. Since 1768, the Royal Ascot meeting has been held at Ascot Racecourse and has become a prominent social and cultural event.
Ascot Racecourse is a legendary horse racing venue that continues to attract top horses and jockeys from around the world, thanks to its unique track layout and prestigious races, and its significant role in British culture and history.
#3 Flemington Racecourse, Australia
Flemington Racecourse:
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Opened: 1840
Capacity: 120,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
The Melbourne Cup is the most renowned horse race held at Flemington Racecourse, occurring annually on the first Tuesday in November. This race is a two-mile handicap and is considered among the world's wealthiest horse races. Flemington Racecourse holds other notable horse races throughout the year, including the Victoria Derby, Australian Cup, and Newmarket Handicap. The racecourse's track is a long and sweeping one, measuring approximately 2,312 meters, with a broad and open layout that can accommodate a significant number of horses and spectators. Flemington Racecourse boasts a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early days of Australian horse racing. The Melbourne Cup has been held at this venue since 1861 and is now an essential cultural event in Australia, attracting visitors and participants from all corners of the globe. Overall, Flemington Racecourse is an iconic and historic location for horse racing that has played a vital role in the development of Australian horse racing, luring the finest horses and jockeys worldwide to its prestigious races and lengthy and sweeping track.
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Opened: 1840
Capacity: 120,000 spectators (pre-pandemic)
The Melbourne Cup is the most renowned horse race held at Flemington Racecourse, occurring annually on the first Tuesday in November. This race is a two-mile handicap and is considered among the world's wealthiest horse races. Flemington Racecourse holds other notable horse races throughout the year, including the Victoria Derby, Australian Cup, and Newmarket Handicap. The racecourse's track is a long and sweeping one, measuring approximately 2,312 meters, with a broad and open layout that can accommodate a significant number of horses and spectators. Flemington Racecourse boasts a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early days of Australian horse racing. The Melbourne Cup has been held at this venue since 1861 and is now an essential cultural event in Australia, attracting visitors and participants from all corners of the globe. Overall, Flemington Racecourse is an iconic and historic location for horse racing that has played a vital role in the development of Australian horse racing, luring the finest horses and jockeys worldwide to its prestigious races and lengthy and sweeping track.
#4 Meydan Racecourse, Dubai
Meydan Racecourse:
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Opened: 2010
Capacity: 60,000 spectators
Meydan Racecourse is a renowned venue for horse racing, hosting several important horse races throughout the year, including the Dubai World Cup, which is the most famous race held at this venue. The thoroughbred horse race is held annually in late March and offers a purse of $12 million, making it one of the world's richest horse races.
Meydan Racecourse features a unique track that spans approximately 2,400 meters in length and includes a dirt course and a turf course. The venue's grandstand is also noteworthy, stretching over one mile and being the longest single structure in the world.
Although it's a relatively new venue, having opened in 2010, Meydan Racecourse has quickly become one of the premier destinations for horse racing worldwide. This is thanks in part to its impressive facilities and large purses for its races. All things considered, Meydan Racecourse is a modern and impressive venue that is a must-visit for horse racing enthusiasts.
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Opened: 2010
Capacity: 60,000 spectators
Meydan Racecourse is a renowned venue for horse racing, hosting several important horse races throughout the year, including the Dubai World Cup, which is the most famous race held at this venue. The thoroughbred horse race is held annually in late March and offers a purse of $12 million, making it one of the world's richest horse races.
Meydan Racecourse features a unique track that spans approximately 2,400 meters in length and includes a dirt course and a turf course. The venue's grandstand is also noteworthy, stretching over one mile and being the longest single structure in the world.
Although it's a relatively new venue, having opened in 2010, Meydan Racecourse has quickly become one of the premier destinations for horse racing worldwide. This is thanks in part to its impressive facilities and large purses for its races. All things considered, Meydan Racecourse is a modern and impressive venue that is a must-visit for horse racing enthusiasts.
#5 Sha Tin Racecourse, Hong Kong
Sha Tin Racecourse:
Location: Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Opened: 1978
Capacity: 85,000 spectators
Most famous race: The Hong Kong International Races, held annually in December, are the most famous races held at Sha Tin Racecourse. The event features four international Group 1 races, including the Hong Kong Cup, the Hong Kong Mile, the Hong Kong Vase, and the Hong Kong Sprint.
Other notable races: Sha Tin Racecourse hosts numerous other important horse races throughout the year, including the Hong Kong Derby, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup, and the Stewards' Cup.
Track characteristics: Sha Tin Racecourse has a unique track that is about 1,800 meters in length and features a turf course and an all-weather track. The track is known for its sweeping turns and challenging uphill finish.
History: Sha Tin Racecourse was built in response to the growing popularity of horse racing in Hong Kong in the 1970s. It has since become an important cultural and sporting destination in Hong Kong, with the Hong Kong International Races attracting top horses and jockeys from around the world.
Overall, Sha Tin Racecourse is a significant horse racing venue that has played an important role in the development of horse racing in Asia. Its unique track and challenging races, as well as the large purses offered for top races, make it a must-visit destination for horse racing fans.
Location: Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Opened: 1978
Capacity: 85,000 spectators
Most famous race: The Hong Kong International Races, held annually in December, are the most famous races held at Sha Tin Racecourse. The event features four international Group 1 races, including the Hong Kong Cup, the Hong Kong Mile, the Hong Kong Vase, and the Hong Kong Sprint.
Other notable races: Sha Tin Racecourse hosts numerous other important horse races throughout the year, including the Hong Kong Derby, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup, and the Stewards' Cup.
Track characteristics: Sha Tin Racecourse has a unique track that is about 1,800 meters in length and features a turf course and an all-weather track. The track is known for its sweeping turns and challenging uphill finish.
History: Sha Tin Racecourse was built in response to the growing popularity of horse racing in Hong Kong in the 1970s. It has since become an important cultural and sporting destination in Hong Kong, with the Hong Kong International Races attracting top horses and jockeys from around the world.
Overall, Sha Tin Racecourse is a significant horse racing venue that has played an important role in the development of horse racing in Asia. Its unique track and challenging races, as well as the large purses offered for top races, make it a must-visit destination for horse racing fans.
#6 Longchamp Racecourse, France
Longchamp Racecourse:
Location: Paris, France
Opened: 1857
Capacity: 50,000 spectators
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is the most well-known race held at Longchamp Racecourse. This thoroughbred horse race takes place annually on the first Sunday in October and has a purse of several million euros. It's considered one of the most esteemed horse races in the world.
In addition to the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Longchamp Racecourse hosts several other significant horse races throughout the year, such as the Prix du Jockey Club (French Derby), the Prix de Diane (French Oaks), and the Grand Prix de Paris.
The track at Longchamp Racecourse is known for its large and sweeping layout, covering a distance of about 2,400 meters with a mix of flat and undulating terrain. The grandstand is equally impressive, and the finish line is located on an uphill slope, providing an extra challenge to the races.
Longchamp Racecourse has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and has hosted some of the most important horse races in Europe. It's a cultural and sporting destination in France, and its large and impressive track, grandstand, prestigious races, and long history make it a must-see for horse racing enthusiasts.
Location: Paris, France
Opened: 1857
Capacity: 50,000 spectators
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is the most well-known race held at Longchamp Racecourse. This thoroughbred horse race takes place annually on the first Sunday in October and has a purse of several million euros. It's considered one of the most esteemed horse races in the world.
In addition to the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Longchamp Racecourse hosts several other significant horse races throughout the year, such as the Prix du Jockey Club (French Derby), the Prix de Diane (French Oaks), and the Grand Prix de Paris.
The track at Longchamp Racecourse is known for its large and sweeping layout, covering a distance of about 2,400 meters with a mix of flat and undulating terrain. The grandstand is equally impressive, and the finish line is located on an uphill slope, providing an extra challenge to the races.
Longchamp Racecourse has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and has hosted some of the most important horse races in Europe. It's a cultural and sporting destination in France, and its large and impressive track, grandstand, prestigious races, and long history make it a must-see for horse racing enthusiasts.
#7 Tokyo Racecourse, Japan
Tokyo Racecourse:
Location: Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
Opened: 1933
Capacity: 223,000 spectators
The Japan Cup, one of the richest horse races in the world, takes place annually in late November at Tokyo Racecourse. The racecourse also hosts several other notable horse races throughout the year, including the Japanese Derby, the Tenno Sho (Spring and Autumn), and the NHK Mile Cup.
Tokyo Racecourse features a large modern track that is approximately 2,083 meters long and has both a turf and dirt course. With a long home stretch and a sweeping turn, the track provides an exciting and competitive race experience.
Tokyo Racecourse was built in response to the growing popularity of horse racing in Japan in the early 20th century. Since then, it has become an important cultural and sporting destination in Tokyo, attracting top horses and jockeys from around the world to the Japan Cup.
Overall, Tokyo Racecourse is a significant venue in the development of horse racing in Japan. Its modern track, impressive facilities, and large purses offered for top races make it a must-visit destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
Location: Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
Opened: 1933
Capacity: 223,000 spectators
The Japan Cup, one of the richest horse races in the world, takes place annually in late November at Tokyo Racecourse. The racecourse also hosts several other notable horse races throughout the year, including the Japanese Derby, the Tenno Sho (Spring and Autumn), and the NHK Mile Cup.
Tokyo Racecourse features a large modern track that is approximately 2,083 meters long and has both a turf and dirt course. With a long home stretch and a sweeping turn, the track provides an exciting and competitive race experience.
Tokyo Racecourse was built in response to the growing popularity of horse racing in Japan in the early 20th century. Since then, it has become an important cultural and sporting destination in Tokyo, attracting top horses and jockeys from around the world to the Japan Cup.
Overall, Tokyo Racecourse is a significant venue in the development of horse racing in Japan. Its modern track, impressive facilities, and large purses offered for top races make it a must-visit destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
#8 Saratoga Race Course, USA
Saratoga Race Course:
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York, USA
Opened: 1863
Capacity: 50,000 spectators
Most Famous Race: Saratoga Race Course is known for hosting the Travers Stakes annually in late August, which is a thoroughbred horse race with a purse of over $1 million and has been dubbed the "Mid-Summer Derby."
Other Notable Races: Saratoga Race Course holds numerous important horse races throughout the summer, including the Whitney Stakes, the Alabama Stakes, and the Sword Dancer Invitational.
Track Characteristics: Saratoga Race Course's track is both historic and beautiful, measuring about 2,011 meters in length with a dirt course and a turf course. The track is renowned for its challenging finish, which includes a steep uphill climb to the finish line, and sweeping turns.
History: Saratoga Race Course has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the Civil War era. It has hosted many of the most significant horse races in the United States, making it a vital sporting and cultural hub in upstate New York.
Overall, Saratoga Race Course is an iconic and historical horse racing venue that has played a significant role in shaping the sport in the United States. With its picturesque track, historic grandstand, and prestigious races, it is a must-visit location for horse racing enthusiasts.
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York, USA
Opened: 1863
Capacity: 50,000 spectators
Most Famous Race: Saratoga Race Course is known for hosting the Travers Stakes annually in late August, which is a thoroughbred horse race with a purse of over $1 million and has been dubbed the "Mid-Summer Derby."
Other Notable Races: Saratoga Race Course holds numerous important horse races throughout the summer, including the Whitney Stakes, the Alabama Stakes, and the Sword Dancer Invitational.
Track Characteristics: Saratoga Race Course's track is both historic and beautiful, measuring about 2,011 meters in length with a dirt course and a turf course. The track is renowned for its challenging finish, which includes a steep uphill climb to the finish line, and sweeping turns.
History: Saratoga Race Course has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the Civil War era. It has hosted many of the most significant horse races in the United States, making it a vital sporting and cultural hub in upstate New York.
Overall, Saratoga Race Course is an iconic and historical horse racing venue that has played a significant role in shaping the sport in the United States. With its picturesque track, historic grandstand, and prestigious races, it is a must-visit location for horse racing enthusiasts.
#9 Del Mar Racetrack
Del Mar Racetrack:
Location: Del Mar, California, USA
Opened: 1937
Capacity: 44,000 spectators
Most famous race: The Del Mar Racetrack hosts the Pacific Classic, an annual thoroughbred horse race held in mid-August. With a purse of over $1 million, it's one of California's most significant horse races.
Other notable races: Other prominent races at Del Mar Racetrack during the summer include the Del Mar Oaks, the Bing Crosby Stakes, and the Del Mar Handicap.
Track characteristics: The Del Mar Racetrack has a scenic course that's approximately 1,600 meters long, featuring both dirt and turf tracks. Its sweeping turns and ocean views, along with the grandstand's contemporary architecture, make it a unique and appealing location for racing.
History: Del Mar Racetrack's origins can be traced back to the 1930s, when it was established by a group of Hollywood celebrities. Over time, it has grown into one of California's most prominent and well-liked horse racing venues, having hosted several significant races in the United States.
Overall, Del Mar Racetrack is a stunning and renowned horse racing venue that has contributed significantly to the growth of horse racing in California. With its breathtaking ocean views, modern grandstand, and prestigious races, it's an attraction that any horse racing enthusiast should visit.
Location: Del Mar, California, USA
Opened: 1937
Capacity: 44,000 spectators
Most famous race: The Del Mar Racetrack hosts the Pacific Classic, an annual thoroughbred horse race held in mid-August. With a purse of over $1 million, it's one of California's most significant horse races.
Other notable races: Other prominent races at Del Mar Racetrack during the summer include the Del Mar Oaks, the Bing Crosby Stakes, and the Del Mar Handicap.
Track characteristics: The Del Mar Racetrack has a scenic course that's approximately 1,600 meters long, featuring both dirt and turf tracks. Its sweeping turns and ocean views, along with the grandstand's contemporary architecture, make it a unique and appealing location for racing.
History: Del Mar Racetrack's origins can be traced back to the 1930s, when it was established by a group of Hollywood celebrities. Over time, it has grown into one of California's most prominent and well-liked horse racing venues, having hosted several significant races in the United States.
Overall, Del Mar Racetrack is a stunning and renowned horse racing venue that has contributed significantly to the growth of horse racing in California. With its breathtaking ocean views, modern grandstand, and prestigious races, it's an attraction that any horse racing enthusiast should visit.
#10 Santa Anita Park, USA
Santa Anita Park:
Location: Arcadia, California, USA
Opened: 1934
Capacity: 26,000 spectators
The Santa Anita Handicap, also known as the "Big 'Cap," is the most prestigious race held at Santa Anita Park. It is a thoroughbred horse race with a purse of over $1 million and is regarded as one of the most important horse races in the United States. In addition to the Big 'Cap, Santa Anita Park hosts several other significant horse races each year, including the Santa Anita Derby, the Breeders' Cup World Championships, and the Gold Cup at Santa Anita.
Santa Anita Park has a unique and stunning track that is around 1,609 meters long and features both a dirt course and a turf course. The track's tight turns and steep banking make for thrilling and challenging races. The grandstand is a remarkable and historical structure that has undergone renovations and modernization in recent years.
Santa Anita Park has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 1930s. It has hosted many of the most important horse races in the United States and has become a significant cultural and sporting destination in Southern California. Santa Anita Park is a prestigious and historic horse racing venue that is adored by racing fans and horse owners alike. Its exceptional track, stunning grandstand, and distinguished races make it a must-see destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
Location: Arcadia, California, USA
Opened: 1934
Capacity: 26,000 spectators
The Santa Anita Handicap, also known as the "Big 'Cap," is the most prestigious race held at Santa Anita Park. It is a thoroughbred horse race with a purse of over $1 million and is regarded as one of the most important horse races in the United States. In addition to the Big 'Cap, Santa Anita Park hosts several other significant horse races each year, including the Santa Anita Derby, the Breeders' Cup World Championships, and the Gold Cup at Santa Anita.
Santa Anita Park has a unique and stunning track that is around 1,609 meters long and features both a dirt course and a turf course. The track's tight turns and steep banking make for thrilling and challenging races. The grandstand is a remarkable and historical structure that has undergone renovations and modernization in recent years.
Santa Anita Park has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 1930s. It has hosted many of the most important horse races in the United States and has become a significant cultural and sporting destination in Southern California. Santa Anita Park is a prestigious and historic horse racing venue that is adored by racing fans and horse owners alike. Its exceptional track, stunning grandstand, and distinguished races make it a must-see destination for horse racing enthusiasts.
Q: What makes these tracks the top 10?
A: These tracks are considered the top 10 because they host some of the most prestigious horse races in the world, such as the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, the Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse, and the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse. They also have excellent facilities and a long history of hosting high-profile events.
Q: How do I bet on horse races at these tracks?
A: Betting on horse races can vary depending on the location, but most tracks will have a variety of betting options, such as win/place/show bets or exotic bets like exactas and trifectas. You can place bets at the track itself or through online betting platforms. However, it's important to research and understand the different types of bets and odds before placing a wager.
Q: Can I visit these tracks as a spectator?
A: Yes, these tracks are open to the public and allow spectators to attend races. Some tracks may have restrictions or require tickets for certain events, so it's important to check the track's website or contact them directly for more information.
Q: Are there any famous races that take place at these tracks?
A: Yes, each of these tracks hosts several famous races. For example, Churchill Downs hosts the Kentucky Derby, Ascot Racecourse hosts the Royal Ascot, and Meydan Racecourse hosts the Dubai World Cup. Other famous races include the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp Racecourse, and the Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin Racecourse.
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