A horse race is a sport in which horses compete against each other on a track. Each participating horse is trained and ridden by a jockey. Jockeys use a whip to encourage their mounts to run faster. The horses must also jump over any hurdles or fences that may be included in the race course. Different races have different rules governing what type of horse can be used and how the race should be run. The most prestigious horse races are the Triple Crown series, which includes the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes.
In the United States, horse racing is regulated by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and several state-level governing bodies. Each organization has its own set of rules regarding the types of horses and how a race should be conducted. In addition, there are also specific regulations regarding the use of the whip, which is prohibited in some races.
Before a race starts, horses are positioned in stalls or behind the starting gate. Once everyone is ready, the gates open and the race begins. Each race is made up of a number of laps around the track. The winning horse is the one who crosses the finish line first. If no single horse wins a race, a dead heat is declared. The stewards then study a photograph of the finish to determine who came in first.
A term used to describe a horse that was in a position to be a factor at a certain point in the race but lacked the needed response when called upon. This term can be considered an alternative to FAILED TO MENACE or LACKED A REQUIRED RESPONSE.
Often used to describe a horse that breaks alertly but tires quickly. This is a common problem for horses that duel for command from the outset or are ridden aggressively in the later stages of the race.
The most prestigious race in North America is the Kentucky Derby, which was first run in 1875. The race is known for its beautiful setting at Churchill Downs and the fact that it is held annually on the same day every year. The Derby is also notable for the fact that it was the very first race to be run under rules requiring each horse to have a rider.
A horse that makes up ground steadily through the closing stages of a race, typically within striking distance of the leaders. This is a common trait for horses that were forced to take up at a critical point in the race or have to contend with traffic problems.