A "Stakes Race" is a type of horse race that is typically more prestigious and offers higher prize money than regular races. These races often feature the best horses, trainers, and jockeys, making them significant events in the horse racing calendar. Stakes races can be part of a series or a standalone event, and they usually require horses to meet specific eligibility criteria. In the world of horse racing, stakes races are categorized into different levels, such as Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III, based on the quality of the horses and the race's history. Notable examples of stakes races include the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, which are part of the prestigious Triple Crown series in the United States.