There is nothing quite like watching the Investec Derby; hearing the thundering of hooves before horse and jockey gallop past; watching jockeys balancing precariously on their steeds, urging them on; hearing the roar of the crowd as the race whizzes by.
But how do these horses manage to be so fast? What, if anything, do they have in common? Is there a special blend of characteristics that will guarantee a winner?
We hit the books and found out eight fun facts about race horses, in general. Not quite the perfect formula for the ultimate winner, but these facts would be worthy of any pub quiz or QI show.