With only months till the end of the decade, it’s been ten years since creating a list like this one. This list features Britain’s best horse races witnessed in the 2010s, with the main criterion used in highlighting them being the races that are still fresh in most people’s minds. It’s a personal list to some level, though most of you will agree that these races were great. You can also add your list to the comments as you enjoy the best offers for the Grand National events.
The Giants Collide – 2011 Cheltenham Gold Cup
While the fans spent years thinking of the Gold Cup as a battle between Denman and Kauto Star, the clash we all expected didn’t come off as we were hoping. In 2008, Kauto Star seemed a bit lacking in his game, and Denman’s heart problem undermined his career.
By race time in 2011, the two were at 11 and past their best with a lot of talent. Both were determined to take the lead through the third-last jump and into the straight. However, the six-year-old Long Run swept past the pair full of potential, providing a new name on the Gold Cup road of honor. The memory of this race is sweetened by the fact that this was not Kauto Star’s last moment to shine as he had a King George and Betfair Chase to win that year.
Frankel’s Guineas – 2011 Qipco 2000 Guineas
Frankel’s performance during the 2011 Qipco 2000 Guineas was one of the most incredible performances witnessed on any racecourse worldwide. Frankel was able to stride from the start, and as soon as he was clear, he stayed there with the crowd cheering from over a furlong out. Despite the unorthodox tactics used to secure the win, it was a reassurance that he was not only going to be memorized as the flashy two-year-old.
Crystal Ocean VS Enable – King George VI
While Crystal Ocean didn’t win the race, he came out as the best horse at the weights, and this race shall remain memorable as an epic duel. As Enable and Crystal Ocean ran towards the final furlong, it was a clash between the two. However, Enable Edged out Crystal Ocean to become the first horse to win the Queen Elizabeth Stakes and King George VI at Ascot.
Lightning Power – 2014 King’s Stand Stakes
Sole Power was a favorite for many tipsters due to his predictable nature. With just five furlongs, you’d get something electric. His second win at Royal Ascot during the 2014 King’s Stand Stakes was thrilling to watch whether you’re a fan or not, as he was held to an irresistible late surge.
Card Played Late – 2015 King George VI Chase
Cue Card’s incredible career perfectly fits in the decade following his debut on January 25th, 2010, and his swansong in the Ryanair in 2018. He was among the few horses that can guarantee drama in a racecourse, but his most memorable race was at Kempton, where he took over a non-staying Vautour to the final strides.
