10) The Cheltenham Festival. This race matches Ireland against Britain in a race for pride. The Cheltenham Festival is the most prestigious meeting in the National Hunt racing calendar.

9) The Melbourne Cup. Since 1861, this Australian race has brought the country to a complete standstill. Said to be the most prestigious 2-mile handicap in the world, this race brings out crowns from every corner of the continent, and even some interested tourists.

8) The Dubai World Cup. A newer race than others on the list, the Dubai World Cup takes place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates annually. Since 1996, this race has been building a loyal following. Like the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot, the Dubai World Cup is as much about fashion as it is horseracing.

7) The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. This prestigious race is help in Paris, France and is considered 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 globe, and the winner of the race receives $10,500,000, making for one of the richest paydays in all of sport.

6) The Breeders Cup. The Breeders Cup doesn't have a steady destination. Visiting a new track in the northeastern United States each year, this event of 14 races totals millions of dollars in purses, and is planning to venture out into the west coast in the near future.

5) The Belmont Stakes. Held at Belmont Park in Elmont, NY, the Belmont Stakes is the last race of the Triple Crown series. For 140 years, fans have filled the park to watch the horse race. And unlike other tracks in the country, Belmont hasn't inflated their prices. Though the third leg of the Triple Crown could potentially be a huge payday, the gate price remains the same, making this race an event everyone can attend.

4) The Grand National. In Aintree, England, the Grand National is more than your ordinary horserace. With 30 fences to jump before finishing the 2-mile course with a straightaway, this grueling test of skill and endurance leaves fans mesmerized as they witness the spectacular display of athleticism put forth by these remarkable horses. Amateur trainers and jockeys are encouraged to participate in this race.

3) The Preakness. This race takes place at Pimlico in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, each year. This second leg of the Triple Crown is highly anticipated by anyone who follows American horseracing. The winner of the Kentucky Derby becomes an automatic fan favorite, as they hope the horse can repeat with a win and inch one race closer to the Triple Crown title.

2) The Royal Ascot. The Royal Ascot is the Derby of England. It's more than a mere race; it's a chance for the wealthy to showcase their prized thoroughbreds. The dress code for the Royal Ascot is strict and requires that all in attendance be dressed in proper attire. The race consists of 24 separate races held over a 4 day period.

1) The Kentucky Derby. All horseracing lovers know it's time to start the Triple Crown when the Derby comes around. Not only is this a potentially high grossing event for owners and a chance to show off their fresh-out-of-training horses, but it's also a race that celebrities and the rich and powerful frequent. From a little place in Churchill Downs into the hearts and minds of everyone on the planet, the Kentucky Derby is the undisputed king of all races