As the curtain closes on 2024, we have seen several outstanding moments from our favourite Horse Racing performers. Some have been models of consistency throughout the season and others have shocked us with stand-out performances.
Our list looks at the best moments of Horse Racing in 2024.
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City Of Troy, trained by Aidan O’Brien, was undoubtedly the star performer of the year. After a disappointing run in the 2000 Guineas, he bounced back in spectacular fashion to win the Group One Epsom Derby in dominant style. That win reminded everyone of his exceptional talent.
He didn’t stop there, adding victories in the Group One Eclipse at Sandown and the Group One Juddmonte International at York. These wins proved his ability to take on and beat not just his fellow three-year-olds but also older, more experienced rivals. City Of Troy’s campaign was a shining example of resilience and brilliance, firmly establishing him as the year’s top three-year-old.
Bluestocking’s story was a true racing fairy tale. Trained by Ralph Beckett, she began the season as a promising but underachieving filly. Everything changed when she won a Group Two at York by six lengths, finally breaking through. She followed up with a Group One win in the Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh, proving she was the best female horse in the UK.
Her campaign reached its peak in France, where she won the Group One Prix Vermeille before claiming the ultimate prize—the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Beating an international field of proven champions in great style. Bluestocking’s season was nothing short of extraordinary.
Galopin Des Champs thrilled fans with a second consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cup win, solidifying his place as one of the greatest steeplechasers of recent times. Trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, he delivered a flawless performance, showcasing perfect jumping and an incredible finishing kick.
His victory wasn’t just a race win—it was a display of class and heart, the kind of performance that racing fans live for. Galopin Des Champs is more than a champion; he’s a legend in the making.
2024 was another landmark year for Willie Mullins, the undisputed king of National Hunt racing. His fourth Cheltenham Gold Cup win in six years was just one highlight. Mullins also celebrated his 100th Cheltenham Festival victory, an achievement no other trainer has reached.
Alongside major wins like State Man’s Champion Hurdle and I Am Maximus’ Grand National triumph, Mullins claimed his 17th straight Irish trainers’ title and became the first Irishman since 1954 to win the British Champion Trainer crown. Mullins’ ability to produce champions year after year makes him a true icon of the sport.
In Hong Kong, Romantic Warrior made history by becoming the first horse to win the Hong Kong Cup three times, clocking a stunning time of 2m 00.57s. Dubbed “the perfect racehorse” by jockey James McDonald, Romantic Warrior lived up to the title, delivering a flawless performance.
McDonald, already considered one of the world’s best jockeys, cemented his legacy alongside his exceptional partner. Their historic feat in 2024 was a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
