A horse race is a contest of speed between horses that are ridden by jockeys or pulled by drivers in sulkies. Besides making wagers on which horse will win the race, some people place bets that are based on the position of individual horses at specific points during a race. The more knowledge a person has about the way a horse moves and performs, the better his chances of winning the bets. Various websites offer helpful information about horse racing, including terminology and tips.
CHART- A statistical “picture” of a race that shows the position of each horse at designated points of call (depending on the distance of the race), age, weight carried, owner, trainer, conditions, pay-off prices, odds and other data. Also referred to as a chart caller’s assessment of the race.
CLERK OF SCALES- An official whose duties include weighing riders before and after workouts and races to be sure that each is carrying the proper weight. Also the one who announces the winners and collects bets from the track.
CLASSIC- A race of traditional importance, such as the Kentucky Derby and Preakness stakes for colts and the Coaching Club American Oaks for fillies. Also a race a horse has won once in his career.
DECENT- The ability to run at a fair pace without tiring excessively. Usually means the horse has a good endurance level and is capable of finishing strongly.
GAIT- The way a horse moves-walking, trotting, cantering and gallopping. Also, to ride a horse at that gait. GOOD BOTTOM- The part of a racetrack that is firm under the surface, as opposed to muddy, sloppy or heavy.
HOTWALKER- A person who walks a horse to cool him out after workouts and races. Also a person who works as a jockey or driver.
POOR PERFORMANCE- The inability of a horse to finish a race in the money, or to even make a decent showing. Often due to injury, lack of fitness or illness.
ROAD HORSE- A horse trained and conditioned to carry a rider over long distances on dirt tracks. They are bred for stamina and can travel at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
RUNNING HORSE- A horse trained to travel at a speed suitable for roadwork or on paved surfaces. They may be bred for sprinting or distance running.
RACEHORSE- A trotter or trotting horse that is bred for speed and can compete in sprinting or distance races.
Racing is a multibillion-dollar industry that is rife with drug abuse and injuries, as well as race-fixing and doping. The 1,000-pound thoroughbreds, who have massive torsos and spindly ankles, reach full maturity at about age 6, yet are thrust into intensive training as young as 18 months and then forced to race against equally overmatched rivals. Despite new rules to promote safety, many of these animals will end up at the slaughterhouse or in euthanasia pits. Some will be sold as studs; others will retire to pasture and spend the rest of their lives eating grass and laying down.