2011 Breeders' Cup: Why Sports Fans Must Appreciate Horse Racing

It's no secret that Americans love football the most, but this weekend features a sport that needs to be recognized more because of its greatness. 

The 2011 Breeders' Cup is a two-day event with almost a dozen races each day. The total purse for the weekend is $26 million, which is absolutely astonishing for a sport that most Americans don't watch.

If you're unfamiliar with the event, here's a video to get you pumped up for this weekend's race.  

Horse racing is pure and all about the passion for winning.

The Breeders' Cup is such a big event for the sport, as it draws in best thoroughbreds from around the world. This year marks a first for the Breeders' Cup. 

Another reason sports fans should tune in this weekend is because the event is being held at the legendary Churchill Downs for the second straight year. The beautiful track is home to the most prestigious horse race of the year, the Kentucky Derby.

Speaking of the Breeders' cup, one of the top jockey's out there today, Garrett Gomez, told ESPN, "It's our Super Bowl." 

The main event is the Classic race on Saturday night, which is supposed to be under the lights. It's a $5 million purse, which amplifies this race so much more. 

When a great deal of money is on the line, the race gets more competitive, therefore, more fun to watch. 

This year's favorite is Uncle Mo, who won the 2010 Breeders' Cup Juvenile race. However, the colt will be challenged on Saturday evening. 

But perhaps the best reason sports fans should appreciate horse racing is because of how quick the race actually is. 

In today's society, everything is all about how fast you can do something. With sporting events, we all have to deal with lengthy and boring commercials. 

That isn't the case with horse racing. Sure, the lead-in is very long, and if you aren't a die-hard fan then it won't be all that great to watch. 

However, the actual race itself is very quick and very exiting. Plus, the 2011 Breeders' Cup has so many races that the pre-race stuff won't be that bad. 

It's also fun to make a pre-race pick with your family or friends to see if you can win. There's nothing greater than obtaining bragging rights over people, especially if you call the big upset. 

So give the Breeders' Cup a look this weekend, and I promise you won't be disappointed.