As in any sport, there are always standouts and the horse racing world is no exception. Whether it is on the flat or over the jumps, there are a number of remarkable horses that have stood head and shoulders above the rest due to their stamina, perseverance and ability to win. Here are just a few of these noble animals.
Red Rum
Considered to be the best steeplechaser of all time, Red Rum won the Grand National not once but three times – a feat that has never been repeated. As a foal, he was passed around from buyer to buyer until finally Ginger McCain took him on. It was soon discovered that he had a bone disorder, which McCain sought to fix through training in seawater. It worked and Red Rum went on to win the Grand National in 1973, ’74 and ’77. In the middle years between victories, whilst not winning, he still came second; a remarkable career all round.
Secretariat
An American born flat racehorse, Secretariat won the American Triple Crown in 1973 becoming the first horse to do so in 25 years. Named the fastest horse on dirt in history, he was fast over distances from 1 2/16 to 1 5/8. The records he set still hold today for all those distances. His record win at the Belmont Stakes saw him lead the field by a massive 31 lengths, a feat he was to perform on a regular basis against any field. He didn’t just win races, he destroyed the field.Of course, these are just two of many, with other notable inclusions being Man o’War, Seabiscuit, Phar Lap and War Admiral. These horses all showed great heart and exceptional talent, bringing joy to thousands of race goers over the years.
