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Horseracing is known as the Sport of Kings, a description that couldn't be more true than in Dubai. The Dubai World Cup has maintained its title of the World's Richest Horserace for numerous years now and this year is no exception with more than $21 million (Dh77 million approximately) up for grabs in prize money.
But off-the-track action is just as important as on, with international events boasting festivals, parades, high fashion, opulent hats, celebrity guests and a party to remember.
Some of the world's most prestigious horse races have a lot more to offer than simply horses, and attending these annual events can be the highlight of any social and travel calendar. tabloid! looks at horse races around the world and how they compare to Dubai.
Dubai World Cup
On March 27, 1996, 11 of the world's leading thoroughbreds stepped onto Dubai's refurbished Nad Al-Sheba racecourse. The brainchild of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup is a fitting tribute to his love of horses and horseracing.
One of the world's top racing challenges, the Dubai World Cup draws an international crowd and captures the attention of millions of horse-racing enthusiasts around the globe.
- Entry is free for the public grandstand and tickets for the International Village are priced Dh250.
For more information visit www.dubaiworldcup.com
Royal Ascot
As only England could, Royal Ascot is a regal experience and, when it comes to horse racing, nothing comes close.
Rolls Royces, Bentleys and Harrod's picnic baskets can be seen for miles around and the fashion stakes are high. Flowers and silver candlesticks, along with your own butler, of course, complete the perfect Ascot picnic experience.
Pimm's and lemonade is the drink of choice and the dress code is as glamorous as it comes.
Unlike most races, although the women are glamorous, it's generally the men who steal the show in perfectly-tailored morning suits with top-hats and tails. Ascot is an annual event held in June which is always attended by Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family, and the Queen's
daily procession is a major attraction.
Ascot is noted for its elite style including top-class thoroughbreds and race attendees in the height of fashion.
- For further information, visit www.ascot-authority.co.uk
- Tickets vary in price according to viewing area requirements and membership.
Kentucky Derby
One of the most famous races in the world is the Kentucky Derby in the US. This year marks the 134th annual Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the esteemed Triple Crown, where the drink of choice is mint Julep.
Held at the revered Churchill Downs racetrack the crowd, like at most other races is divided into the “haves" and “have nots' — those in the know (or in the money) and the general public.
Rather than just a day of racing, the Derby Week festivities held in May include parties, parades, sports, music and
fireworks. Thousands of people turn out for the races but the most famous track race is the Run for the Roses where the best three-year-old thoroughbreds line up for America's most famous race.
- Entry ticket: $40 (Dh147) general admission.
- For further information, visit www.churchilldowns.com
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