Top 10 Horse Racing Movies You Can’t Miss

Description: This classic film follows a young girl, Velvet Brown, who wins a horse in a raffle and trains it to compete in the Grand National steeplechase. It's a tale of youthful ambition and the bond between a girl and her horse.

Fact: Elizabeth Taylor, who played Velvet, was only 12 years old during filming. The film helped launch her career.

Description: While not strictly about horse racing, this film features a young boy and a wild Arabian stallion who form an unbreakable bond, leading to a thrilling race at the end. It's a timeless story of friendship and adventure.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Mickey Rooney. The horse playing the Black Stallion was named Cass Ole.

Description: This film is based on the true story of Sonora Webster Carver, a diving girl who performs with horses in a water show, showcasing the courage and resilience of both human and horse.

Fact: Sonora Carver was the first woman to dive on horseback into a pool of water. The film captures her spirit and the bond she shared with her horse, Lightning.

Description: While not solely about racing, this film features a horse that has suffered a traumatic injury, leading to a journey of healing and racing. It's a story of human connection and the healing power of horses.

Fact: The film was based on the novel by Nicholas Evans. Robert Redford, who directed and starred in the film, is known for his love of horses.

Description: This film tells the true story of Seabiscuit, an undersized and overlooked racehorse whose improbable rise to fame during the Great Depression captured the hearts of a nation. It's a tale of perseverance, teamwork, and the American spirit.

Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The real Seabiscuit was known for his come-from-behind victories, which are dramatically portrayed in the movie.

Description: This heartwarming film tells the story of a father and daughter who rescue an injured racehorse named Sonya, nursing her back to health to compete in the prestigious Breeders' Cup Classic. It's a tale of family, hope, and second chances.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life story of the racehorse Mariah's Storm. The horse playing Sonya was named "Soñador."

Description: A young boy with a passion for horse racing trains a wild horse to compete in the Kentucky Derby, facing challenges from his family and peers. It's a story of determination and the pursuit of dreams.

Fact: The film features real-life jockey Pat Day, who won the Kentucky Derby three times. It was filmed in Kentucky, home of the Derby.

Description: Secretariat follows the journey of Penny Chenery, who takes over her father's stable and leads Secretariat, a horse with an extraordinary heart, to win the Triple Crown in 1973. It's an inspiring story of determination and the bond between a woman and her horse.

Fact: Secretariat set records in all three races of the Triple Crown, records that still stand today. The film features real-life footage of Secretariat's races.

Description: Phar Lap is an Australian film that chronicles the life of the legendary racehorse Phar Lap, who became a national hero during the Great Depression. His mysterious death adds an intriguing layer to this story of triumph and tragedy.

Fact: Phar Lap's heart was found to be significantly larger than average, which was believed to contribute to his racing prowess. The film was shot in Australia, where Phar Lap raced.

Description: This TV movie recounts the life of Ruffian, a filly who was considered one of the greatest racehorses of all time until a tragic injury during a match race. It's a poignant look at the highs and lows of the sport.

Fact: Ruffian's match race against Foolish Pleasure is considered one of the most dramatic events in horse racing history. The film was produced by ESPN.