The year might be winding down, but the global horse racing calendar is far from over. From the thundering hooves at Ascot to the glitzy tracks of Hong Kong and the wide-open courses of Australia, there are still some massive races to look forward to in the final months of 2024. Whether you’re a punter looking to place a bet on the best horse racing odds or a racing fan eager to see which horses finish the year on a high, here’s a breakdown of the major races happening around the world and the top favourites to watch out for.
UK: Wrapping Up the National Hunt Season
King George VI Chase – December 26, 2024
The King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day is one of the most prestigious races left in the UK for 2024. This race typically serves as a key prep for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and it’s where some of the top horses like Bravemansgame and Protektorat will be testing their mettle ahead of the big one in March.
- Favourites: Bravemansgame is looking to defend his title, with strong competition expected from Ahoy Senor and possibly Shishkin if connections opt to target the race.
What to Look Out For: The King George is often a great way to spot future Cheltenham Festival contenders, so keep an eye on how the form shakes out here.
USA: All Eyes on the Breeders’ Cup
Breeders’ Cup – November 1-2, 2024
Held at Del Mar this year, the Breeders’ Cup is the biggest event left on the U.S. horse racing calendar. Featuring the best horses from around the world, the Breeders’ Cup Classic is the crown jewel, with the fastest thoroughbreds on the planet battling it out over 1¼ miles.
- Favourites: Keep an eye on Arcangelo, the 2023 Belmont Stakes winner, and White Abarrio, who’s been impressive in prep races leading up to the Breeders’ Cup.
What to Look Out For: The Classic will likely shape the Horse of the Year conversation in the U.S., so expect some fireworks.
Hong Kong: International Competition Heats Up
Hong Kong International Races – December 8, 2024
Known as the “Turf World Championships,” the Hong Kong International Races at Sha Tin is a global racing showdown featuring the best turf horses from around the world. With races like the Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong Mile, and Hong Kong Vase, the event attracts top competitors from Europe, Japan, and Australia.
- Favourites: Romantic Warrior is a homegrown talent expected to shine in the Hong Kong Cup, while California Spangle will be a major player in the Hong Kong Mile.
What to Look Out For: The international presence is always strong in Hong Kong, so expect some top European and Japanese horses to show up and challenge the locals.
Australia: Melbourne’s Biggest Party Isn’t Over
Melbourne Cup – November 5, 2024
The Melbourne Cup is the race that stops a nation—and increasingly, the world. Known as the ultimate test of stamina over two miles, this iconic race at Flemington Racecourse is the pinnacle of Australia’s horse racing season.
- Favourites: Early betting favourites include Gold Trip, last year’s winner, and Vauban, the Irish raider trained by Willie Mullins, who’s aiming to conquer the Aussie turf.
What to Look Out For: The Melbourne Cup is known for its late entries and international raiders, so don’t be surprised to see some last-minute changes in the line-up. European horses typically perform well here, so keep an eye on the field.
France: The Parisian Finale
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – October 6, 2024
France’s biggest race, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, takes place at Longchamp and is regarded as one of the most prestigious turf races in the world. Drawing horses from all over Europe, this race is known for producing epic battles between top-class middle-distance runners.
- Favourites: Ace Impact, the exciting French 3-year-old, is the current favourite, but don’t count out Hukum, who has shown great form this season.
What to Look Out For: The Arc often throws up a surprise or two, and ground conditions can be a huge factor. Soft ground could throw a wrench in some of the top contenders’ plans.
Canada: Wrapping Up the Year with the Canadian International
Canadian International Stakes – October 22, 2024
Held at Woodbine Racetrack, the Canadian International Stakes is one of the biggest turf races in North America. Though it doesn’t quite reach the fever pitch of the Breeders’ Cup, it still attracts top international talent, especially from Europe.
- Favourites: The field is still shaping up, but expect to see some strong European raiders make the trip to Toronto. Nations Pride, a Godolphin-owned star, is likely to be a key contender.
What to Look Out For: Watch for any late entries from Europe; they often perform well on the Woodbine turf.
Betting Strategy: When to Bet on Horses?
- When Do Odds on Horses Typically Get Released?: For the biggest races like the Melbourne Cup and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, odds on horses are available months in advance. However, the field can shift dramatically in the final weeks due to injuries, last-minute entries, and changes in form. Early odds can offer value, but waiting until the field is confirmed closer to race day is often a safer bet.
- Should You Lock in Early Odds for the Grand National?: If you have a strong hunch about a longshot, locking in early odds can be worth it. However, the Grand National is notorious for having horses drop out last minute, so it’s often best to wait until the field is more solidified.
Final Thoughts: A Global Horse Racing Spectacle to End the Year
From the glitz of the Breeders’ Cup to the international showdown in Hong Kong, the final months of 2024 are packed with thrilling horse racing action. Whether you’re watching the Melbourne Cup with your morning coffee or tuning in for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, there’s no shortage of high-stakes drama on the horizon. Keep an eye on the form, grab those early odds on horses, and get ready for a thrilling end to the racing season!