Horse racing has certainly generated its fair share of standout performers over the years.
From those who have enjoyed unrivalled success in the big events, to those who consistently perform week in and week out, there are plenty of contenders to debate as the greatest ever.
Here, we take a look at some of the best race horses the sport has ever witnessed.
Seabiscuit
A symbol of hope to many Americans during the Great Depression, Seabiscuit had a glittering career that generated over $430,000 of prize money. His major wins included the Scarsdale Handicap, Massachusetts Handicap, Brooklyn Handicap, Riggs Handicap, Bay Meadows Handicap, Agua Caliente Handicap, Harve de Grace Handicap, San Antonio Handicap and Santa Anita Handicap.
Furthermore, Seabiscuit was victorious in the Hollywood Gold Cup and also in the Pimlico Special, seeing off rival War Admiral in a classic. He was also named U.S. Horse of the Year in 1938 and has been the subject of many films, including the 2003 hit Seabiscuit.
American Pharaoh
Ridden by Victor Espinoza, American Pharaoh was the only horse to win the Grand Slam of Thoroughbred horse racing – The Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Preakness Stakes), along with the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 2015 at Keeneland racecourse. He won his final race at the Breeders’ Cup by 6 1/2 lengths, breaking the track record. His earnings amounted to $8,650,300, and he currently stands at stud at Ashford Stud in Kentucky.
Arkle
One of the most famous race horses of all time, Arkle was somewhat different from the rest. The Irish thoroughbred landed three consecutive Gold Cups at Cheltenham Festival, and went on to record Timeform’s highest ever rating for a steeplechaser of 212.
His other major victories include the King George VI Chase, Hennessy Gold Cup and Irish Grand National to name but a few. Arkle was considered a pioneer for his time, and was inducted into the British Steeplechasing Hall of Fame in 1994.
Red Rum
One of the best jumpers racing has ever witnessed, Red Rum is undeniably one of the greatest steeplechasers ever alongside Arkle. Notoriously dominant throughout the 1970’s, Red Rum won an unprecedented three Grand Nationals (1973, 1974, and 1977) as well as the Scottish National in 1974.
Perhaps his finest moment came in the 1973 National, when he made up 30 lengths to pip Crisp on the post. After his death in 1995, it was decided Red Rum would be buried at the winning post of Aintree.
Yeats
Arguably one of the finest horses of the modern era, Yeats enjoyed over 14 major wins in his illustrious career. The Irish thoroughbred is renowned for winning four successive Ascot Gold Cups, a feat that’ll likely remain for years to come.
Yeats’ career was short but very sweet, even coming back after a year’s absence due to health concerns. His other major wins include the Coronation Cup, Goodwood Cup, Irish St. Leger and Prix Royal Oak.
Best Mate
Out of 22 career starts, Best Mate never finished lower than second and won on 14 occasions. He also equalled Arkle’s long-standing record of winning three consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cups (2002, 2003 and 2004).
The Irish-bred hero was also successful in the Mersey Novices’ Hurdle, November Novices’ Chase, Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase, Haldon Gold Cup, Peterborough Chase, Ericsson Chase and most notably, the King George VI Chase.
Amazingly, Best Mate never fell at a fence or hurdle and after his death in 2005, his ashes were buried at the winning post of Cheltenham. The 2019 Cheltenham Festival is swiftly approaching, and punters can check out all the markets and latest prices right here: https://www.betfair.com/exchange/plus/horse-racing.
