Planning your racing calendar for 2024? Determining the "next" major horse race depends on your location and what you consider "major." However, we can highlight some of the biggest events and help you pinpoint the next exciting race to watch.
Many consider the Triple Crown races—the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes—among the most prestigious horse races globally. Let's look at their timing:
When is the Kentucky Derby 2024?
The Kentucky Derby is typically held on the first Saturday in May. Therefore, the Kentucky Derby 2024 will be on May 4th, 2024. This is often considered the kickoff to the major horse racing season.
When is the Preakness Stakes 2024?
Following the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes is held approximately two weeks later. In 2024, the Preakness Stakes will be held on May 18th, 2024.
When is the Belmont Stakes 2024?
The final leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes, concludes the series. It's typically held in early June. In 2024, the Belmont Stakes will take place on June 8th, 2024.
What Other Major Horse Races are in 2024?
Beyond the Triple Crown, several other significant horse races occur throughout the year. The exact dates can vary slightly from year to year, so it's always best to check official racing calendars closer to the time. Some of these include:
Breeders' Cup (November)
The Breeders' Cup is a major two-day event featuring the best thoroughbreds competing in various races. This is usually held in late October or early November. The specific dates for 2024 are yet to be announced but will be widely publicized by racing organizations.
Royal Ascot (June)
Held in Ascot, England, Royal Ascot is a highly prestigious event known for its elegance and tradition. The dates for Royal Ascot in 2024 are also yet to be officially announced but typically occur in mid-June.
How to Find Specific Race Dates in the Future?
To stay up-to-date on precise dates for all major horse races in 2024 and beyond, it's recommended to:
- Check the official websites of racecourses: Each major racecourse (Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby, Pimlico Race Course for the Preakness, Belmont Park for the Belmont Stakes, etc.) will publish their schedules well in advance.
- Consult major horse racing publications and news websites: Many dedicated horse racing publications and sports news websites keep detailed calendars of upcoming events.
- Use online search engines: A simple search like "2024 horse racing schedule" will yield many results.
By utilizing these resources, you'll be perfectly positioned to enjoy all the thrilling action of major horse racing in 2024. Remember to check back closer to the dates for the most accurate and up-to-date information.