Horse races are a thrilling spectacle that capture the attention of millions of fans around the world. From the ceremonial pageantry of major events to the deep love and respect of horses themselves, horse racing is steeped in tradition and a sport that continues to evolve with modern technology and advances in breeding and animal welfare.
Whether you’re betting on a horse race or just soaking up the atmosphere of the track, there are many terms and lingo that will help you better understand the action. Here are a few of the most commonly used words and phrases:
Starter: The starter oversees the loading of horses into the starting gate through a gate crew and has control over opening the gates to begin the race.
Clocker: An individual that times and rates workouts.
Dirt: A fast racing surface, generally referred to as “fast.” A sandy track is considered dirt while a muddy track is called grass.
In the money: To finish in the top four and win a share of the prize purse.
The Kentucky Derby is a world-renowned event known for its storied traditions and the spectacular pageantry of the post-race celebrations. It is also the most popular thoroughbred horse race in North America. With a length of one and a half miles, the Kentucky Derby is a difficult race to win and requires exceptional fitness levels for both horses and jockeys.
There are numerous superstitions and long-held traditions in horse racing that are believed to bring good luck to the winning jockeys and trainers. These include wearing certain colors, following specific routines, and even avoiding certain words. Regardless of these beliefs, the winner’s circle is a place of honor and achievement that is not to be taken lightly.
Allowance Race: A non-claiming race where the racing secretary conditions weight allowances based on previous race earnings and/or types of wins. Often called an “Allowance Optional Claimer” or an “AE.”
State-Bred: A horse that is bred in a particular state and thus eligible to compete in races restricted to state-breds.
Graded Stakes: A race with a larger prize purse than an allowance or optional claimer. These are typically run on a dirt or turf track and offer additional purse monies in addition to those earned for finishing first through third.
X-rays, MRI scanners, and endoscopes are just a few of the cutting-edge medical technologies now available to horse racing officials to help keep the athletes healthy and happy. With a strong commitment to preserving tradition and embracing change, the future of horse racing remains bright.
From the chariot races of ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to today’s high-tech facilities and world-renowned veterinarians, horse racing is a sport that will continue to draw in people from around the globe. The enduring appeal of this equestrian sport is a testament to the magic and beauty of horses. Feeling the earth shake beneath a mass of thundering hooves barrelling down the stretch of a horse race is an unforgettable experience.