Horse races are an immensely popular spectator sport, drawing large crowds to tracks to witness horses and jockeys compete. The horse racing industry includes several groups – owners who breed and raise horses; trainers who train the horses; jockeys who ride in races; tracks which organize and host them all; fans who bet on outcomes.

Though widely popular, horse racing faces several hurdles despite its widespread appeal. Notably, television coverage has failed to generate profits and it is losing ground to major professional and collegiate team sports. Furthermore, racetracks do not meet modern audiences’ desire for an interactive experience and the sport often carries with it an image of being too elitist or out-of-touch with working Americans.

Though Thoroughbred racing may appear romanticized in the media, it is an intensely competitive business that involves injuries, drug use and breakdowns, breakdowns and slaughter of horses. Although awareness has increased regarding its dark side has caused improvements but the problem still needs to be solved.

As horse racing evolves, its definition remains murky. Some consider great races to be those which evoke emotion from crowds while others use objective criteria such as speed or distance as criteria to measure success. Both aspects are certainly key components to consider but ultimately those which have the greatest effect are considered successful horse races by racing communities around the globe.

Here are 10 of the greatest horse races ever held. They may feature head-to-head competitions or breathtaking displays of skill; here are 10 of the greatest horse races ever.

3. Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe At the top of our list is one of history’s most celebrated flat races: the Prix de l’Arc deTriomphe. Firstly held in 1902 and featuring some of the greatest horses worldwide such as Ard Patrick and Sceptre from all five Classic races including Derby and Guineas before engaging in an incredible race duel at the Arc. Many consider this dramatic showdown among all races ever run as one of its finest ever showsdowns!