Family Films About Horse Racing

Description: A young girl wins a horse in a raffle and, with the help of a former jockey, trains it to compete in the Grand National Steeplechase. It's a classic tale of ambition and the love for horses.

Fact: Elizabeth Taylor, who played Velvet Brown, was only 12 years old during filming. The film was one of the first to be shown on television after its theatrical release.

Description: A young boy and a wild Arabian stallion form an unbreakable bond, leading to an exciting race at the end. This film captures the essence of horse racing with its stunning visuals and emotional depth.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations including Italy, Canada, and the U.S. The horse used for the Black Stallion was named Cass Ole.

Description: While not exclusively about racing, this film includes scenes of horse training and racing, focusing on the emotional and physical recovery of both horse and rider.

Fact: Robert Redford, who directed and starred in the film, also trained the horses for the movie.

Description: This film recounts the real-life story of Seabiscuit, an undersized racehorse whose unexpected triumphs during the Great Depression inspired a nation. It's a story of hope and the underdog spirit.

Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The horse playing Seabiscuit was actually named Popcorn Deelites.

Description: This film tells the story of a young girl and her father who nurse an injured racehorse back to health, aiming to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. It's a tale of family, determination, and the spirit of racing.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the true story of the racehorse Mariah's Storm. Kurt Russell, who plays the father, also served as a producer for the film.

Description: A teenage girl tames a wild mustang and enters it in a local horse race, learning about responsibility and the bond between human and horse.

Fact: The film is based on the novel "My Friend Flicka" by Mary O'Hara. The horse playing Flicka was named "Flicka" in real life.

Description: A high school student with a passion for horse racing trains a horse to compete in the Kentucky Derby, overcoming numerous obstacles along the way.

Fact: The film features actual footage from the Kentucky Derby. Zac Efron, who plays the lead, was relatively unknown at the time of filming.

Description: This film chronicles the life of Secretariat, the legendary racehorse who won the Triple Crown in 1973, focusing on the bond between the horse and his owner, Penny Chenery.

Fact: The film features real-life footage of Secretariat's races. Diane Lane, who played Penny Chenery, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance.

Description: This Australian film tells the story of Phar Lap, a legendary racehorse who became a national hero during the Great Depression. It's a tale of triumph against all odds.

Fact: The film was shot in Australia, and the horse playing Phar Lap was named "Towering Inferno."

Description: This made-for-TV movie recounts the life of Ruffian, an undefeated filly who tragically broke down during a match race. It's a poignant story of racing's highs and lows.

Fact: The film was produced by ESPN and aired on ABC. The real Ruffian's ashes are buried at Churchill Downs.