【明報專訊】The US: American horse racing dates back to 1665, when the Newmarket racecourse (now known as the Hempstead Plains of Long Island) was established. The high point of American horse racing occurs every year on the first Saturday of May, on which the Kentucky Derby (肯德基打吡) is held. First held in 1875, it is one of America's oldest horse races. The trophy is a gold cup, which is awarded to the owner of the winning horse. Each year it draws thousands of horse racing fans from all parts of the world.

Australia: Horse racing began in the early years of settlement in Australia. After centuries of development, Australia is now a world leader in thoroughbred (良種馬) racing. One of its most important horse races is the Melbourne Cup, which attracts many international entries. The first country racing club of Australia was founded in 1852 in Walladabah, where the Walladabah Cup is held every year on New Year's Day.

South Africa: Horse racing is a popular sport in South Africa. Its history can be traced back to 1797. The National Horseracing Authority, which was established in 1882, coordinates horse racing activities in South Africa. The country's notable and important equestrian events include the Durban July Handicap (which began in 1897), the Summer Cup and the J & B Met (which takes place in Cape Town).

France: Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is among the most prominent horse races in France. It falls on the first Sunday of October. It is notable in that its prize, which amounts to 4 million euros, is the highest in Europe.

Mongolia: All horses that run in traditional Mongolian horse races are Mongolian horses. They are smaller than thoroughbreds. It is said the breed has remained as it was when Genghis Khan (成吉思汗) lived. In Mongolia, where horses usually outnumber humans, nomadic herders (遊牧者) set great store by them. Big horse races take place every year together with wrestling and archery competitions at a tournament called Naadam (那達慕), which means "games" or "entertainment". Children aged between 5 and 13 are picked as jockeys to participate in horse races.