Humans have been racing horses since the early days of civilization. It’s called the Sport of Kings. And once you glance at the prize pool of some of the current events, you’ll realize why! With a whopping $20 million grand sum at Riyadh’s King Abdulaziz Racetrack this year, the mega prize continues to grow.

But that’s hardly the most substantial prize money ever recorded. Here’s a list of the

10 Most Popular Horseracing Events in the World

1.      Kentucky Derby – Hosted in Louisville on the first Saturday in May each year, thoroughbred racing at Kentucky Derby is among the poshest races on the planet. With over 150,000 spectators in the stands and a $3 million pot, it is among the oldest races in the world.

2.      The Preakness Stakes – Held on the third Saturday in May every year, the second leg of the Triple Crown takes place at the Pimlico Race Course. Although much has changed since its inception in 1867, some traditions remain.

3.      Nakayama Grand Jump – Every year Japanese horse-racing buffs gather at the grandstand to watch horses neatly navigate obstacles at the Nakayama Racecourse. Established in 1999, it might not be in the international limelight, but the crowd is enthusiastic and family-friendly.

4.      The Everest – With a $14 million purse, the Everest was the most luxurious horseracing event until the Saudi Cup. The event is invitational with just 12 slots available for purchase, at $600,000 each.

5.      Dubai World Cup – A new entrant, by comparison, the Dubai World Cup was first hosted in 1996 at the Meydan Racecourse. One of the most opulent sporting events in the world, it is among the most prestigious thoroughbred races today.

6.      Breeder’s Cup World Championship – With a $30 million prize pool, the 2-day event boasts one of the biggest purses in sports. Famed for the registered participants from around the world, Breeder’s Cup is hosted at a different venue across the US every year.

7.      Melbourne Cup – A race that stops the nation, the Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most-coveted horseracing event. Originated in 1861, it attracts purebreds from around the world on the first Thursday in November.

8.      The Royal Ascot – A week-long racing series with 16 group races, The Royal Ascot has been a part of Britain’s heritage since 1711. Attended by The Queen and her Royal Entourage, the event includes a traditional Royal Procession followed by a performance from the Military Band.

9.      Pegasus World Cup – Hosted on the last Saturday in January each year, Pegasus attracts the best American thoroughbreds aged four and above. With a $9 million prize pool, Pegasus hosts both dirt and track events.

10.  Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – Perhaps one of Europe’s most significant horseracing events. The Arc hosts thousands of spectators on the first Saturday in October every year at the Longchamp Racecourse. The event has one of the biggest purses thanks to its affiliation with the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club.

For more interesting stories, visit horse racing sites listed by Gamblerguy.