The Thoroughbreds bred in France and, in particular, in Normandy as here at the Haras des Étincelles of Mesnil-Simon in the Calvados department are primarily intended for racing. France organizes around 7,100 races annually, with 4,900 flat races and 2,200 obstacle races, including the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, considered the world championship for Thoroughbreds. Their overall allocation of 210 million euros in prizes and premiums is enough to motivate the breeders. Once reformed and re-educated, racehorses make excellent riding horses. Most of the Thoroughbreds bred in France remain on the French territory. The annual exports only account for approximately a tenth of the national registrations i.e. around 500 horses.