Basically, horse racing is a performance sport in which a horse competes against another horse for the prize. Jockeys ride the horses in a race over a set distance for the competition. The horse race can be held on a Flat track, Stakes race or Steeplechase.
Modern horse racing began in the 18th century
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the first modern horse races were held in England. This sport was popular among aristocrats and rich country gentlemen. It was also a popular pastime for colonists in the mid-Atlantic region.
The first modern horse races were the Derby and the Oaks. These races were introduced in 1776 and 1779 respectively. They quickly became the most popular races for equestrians and racing enthusiasts.
Stakes race
Generally, horses aged three and up compete in stakes races. These races are held at some major racetracks and offer the largest purses for the best finishing horses.
In a stakes race, horses have been nominated by their owners and are paid a subscription fee to enter the race. In most cases, two stakes races are held at most tracks during the year.
Flat racing
Usually involving Thoroughbred horses, flat racing tests speed, stamina and skill. It takes place on a flat or oval track, but may also be held on synthetic surfaces. In the United Kingdom, flat racing is predominantly run on turf.
There are two main codes of British horse racing: Flat and National Hunt. These codes differ in their regulations and rules. However, most rulebooks are patterned on the British Horseracing Authority rulebook.
Steeplechase races
Traditionally, steeplechase races are held on a track that is over two to three miles long. The course is usually made up of large, fixed obstacles. This includes timber and water fences and barriers. The fences are at least 30 feet wide, and open ditches are at least four feet wide.
The first steeplechase races were held in Ireland in the 1700s. The races would start at a church steeple, and then race to another church steeple. The winner of the race would be the first to reach the base of the steeple.
Weight-for-age
Whether you are betting on horse races or not, you should know that weight plays a vital role in how well a horse performs. Weights may vary in some races, but the ones that are awarded to horses are set.
Weight-for-age is a term that refers to the amount of weight a horse carries in a race based on its age. The WFA scale is a set of rules and regulations that are used to determine the weight a horse should carry in different conditions and distances.