But none of today's races compare with the £1million claimed by the winner of the Grand National.
Judi Dench revealed she would be backing the tongue-twisting mount Shakalakaboomboom.
Grand National 2014, Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse (AP)
The veteran actor said: "I often go for the horses with the funniest-sounding names in the National. This one has a fantastic name and does appeal this year.
"He missed the race last year due to injury but came ninth in 2012. I think he could stand a fair chance."
The ten-year-old gelding, being ridden by David Bass and trained by Nicky Henderson, is currently on odds of 33-1.
Jilly Cooper went for the more favoured horses Monbeg Dude and Tidal Bay but it was not the optimistic predictions that swayed her but her love of the two beasts.
The best-selling author said: "I adore Monbeg Dude so I was going to back him but I also love Tidal Bay, he is such a wonderful horse.
"I think I will be backing both of them.
"Tidal Bay is being ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies who is a sweet lad and they are a lovely family, they really love their horses.
"I think Tidal Bay is 13 now which is quite old so it would be lovely if he managed to win it."
(PA)
Monbeg Dude, part owned by Zara Phillips and her husband Mike Tindall, has been tipped as one of the favourites in this year's race, currently on odds of 12-1.
The nine-year-old gelding, trained by Michael Scudamore, will be ridden by Paul Carberry.
Tidal Bay, trained by Paul Nicholls, has also proved a popular choice on odds of 14-1.
Concert promoter Harvey Goldsmith will be picking his horse on the day of the race after looking through the morning newspapers and trusting to his luck.
He said: "I am not a big racing fan but like most people I will be having a flutter tomorrow.
"I will took through the horses tomorrow morning, wait and see who everyone is talking about, then close my eyes and point my finger and see where it ends up.
"This is the Grand National, you can't be informed in your choice."
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