For four days every August, the racing fraternity from around the world -- from Russian oligarchs and French ministers, to trainers and retired jockeys -- descends on the picturesque seaside town of Deauville in Normandy, France, in search of one thing: a champion racehorse.

The invasion, which this year takes place from August 13 to 16, marks the start of the European yearling sales, where nearly 500 one-year-old unraced horses are sold at the Elie-de-Brignac sales complex in the heart of town. Bidders -- who are expected to spend about a combined €40m during the event, if the last few years are an indicator -- will fight it out in the sales ring for the thoroughbreds they believe have the potential to bring them glory.