Types of Horse Races
Horse racing is a form of equestrian competition that involves one or more horses and jockeys. The race takes place over a specified distance. There are many different types of horse races, including Stakes, Standardbred, and Harness. Getting an understanding of these different categories is important for your betting strategy.
Standardbred
The Standardbred horse is a breed of horse that originated in the United States. It was introduced to other countries and is now a popular choice for harness racing. These horses pull a small cart, called a sulky, over a mile track. The horse must complete the mile distance in two minutes and 30 seconds or less.
The Standardbred horse has exceptional stamina and endurance. Its body type is long and flat with a streamlined shape. The average Standardbred weighs between nine hundred and one thousand pounds. Its coat is generally bay, but other colors are available as well. Its bloodlines can be traced back to the Hambletonian 10, which was a champion trotter.
Thoroughbred
Thoroughbred horse racing is a sport and industry with two types of races, flat racing and jump racing. Jump racing is known as National Hunt racing in the UK and steeplechasing in the US. Each type of race has its own rules and regulations and is closely regulated by different national bodies.
In the early years of organized racing, most Thoroughbreds were owned by their owners, but the commercial breeding industry became more important after World War II. Today, a large percentage of Thoroughbreds are sold by breeders. A person can also buy a Thoroughbred by claiming him out of a race.
Harness
A harness horse race is a type of horse racing. The horses pull a two-wheel cart called a sulky or spider occupied by a driver. In Europe, this cart is known as a chariot. It’s a unique type of horse race, and it’s an exciting way to watch a horse perform its gait.
Harness racing dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. The Assyrians had elaborate stables and employed professional trainers for their horses. They originally used chariots for war, but later used them for hunting. The earliest records of chariot racing are from the 7th century, when the ancient Olympics were first held. At that time, the races involved two and four-horse teams. The horses were locally bred or imported from northern Africa.
Stakes
A graded stakes race is a thoroughbred horse race that meets the criteria of the American Graded Stakes Committee, part of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. These races are considered the best in the country and are usually considered the pinnacle of thoroughbred horse racing.
There are several different types of stakes races. Some of them are invitation-only and require an entry fee, while others are not. Nominations are due a few weeks before a race and must be paid to the track. Nominations generally include more horses than will actually race. Some owners will not enter their horse if they believe that the race will be too difficult for the horse or if the horse has been injured or is already entered in another race.