LONDON, April 6, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
April 6th will see more Brits
heading to the bookies than any other day of the year. No, it's not
the X-Factor final, but John Smith Grand National weekend at
Aintree. The John Smith Grand National is one of the highlights of
the British horseracing calendar, on which over a quarter of the
UK's population are estimated to enjoy a flutter. And it's easy to
see why, as horseracing can offer an adrenaline rush like no other,
as these majestic animals beat their way around the tracks at
record speed.
Below are the crème de la crème of horse races from around the
world:
The Melbourne Cup, Australia
The first Tuesday in November is one of the most celebrated
events in the Australian calendar, when the Aussies don their glad
rags and host massive parties to celebrate Melbourne Cup Day. With
more pomp and ceremony than is usually expected of our cousins Down
Under - and over AUS$6 million in prize money - this race is truly
something worth getting excited about.
The Kentucky Derby, USA
The premier event in the USA's
horseracing circuit, the Kentucky Derby has perhaps the biggest
build-up in the racing world, with the two-minute race celebrated
with over a week of parades, fireworks, parties and more. The
Kentucky Derby is truly an experience that's well worth the journey
stateside.
The Dubai World Cup, UAE
Although this is one of the younger international races - the
first event was held in 1996 - the Dubai World Cup is certainly one
of the most grown-up in the glamour stakes. Fashion is almost as
much of an event as the race itself, with some of the most exciting
and bizarre hats and outfits on show as are likely to be seen
anywhere. As the birthplace of thoroughbred horses, Dubai is the ultimate destination for a
race.
Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe
Considered one of the most important races in Europe, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is held
each year in Paris. Its astounding
$10.5 million prize money means that
it draws competitors from all over the UK, Ireland, Germany and Italy.
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SOURCE Thomas Cook
