A horse race is a competition in which horses either run around an oval or figure-eight track without being hindered by hurdles or fences, or jump over obstacles. This type of racing is often referred to as flat racing and takes place on a variety of surfaces, including turf (which is more common in Europe) and dirt/artificial surfaces in the United States. Historically, many races have been run over obstacles as well, but these are becoming increasingly rare.
The sport of horse racing is considered one of the oldest sports, with records of it being practiced in ancient civilizations such as Ancient Greece, Rome, and Babylon. It was later popularized in England among the aristocracy and remains popular today in several countries around the world, with the top races being held in the UK, USA, and France.
Although different national horseracing organizations may have slightly differing rules regarding the way a race is run, most are based on the original rulebook from the British Horseracing Authority. In addition to the rules, each organization sets a set of minimum acceptable standards for the training and care of its horses. The horse’s condition is assessed on a regular basis and must meet certain requirements before it can be entered in a race.
In the US, the biggest race is the Kentucky Derby, a two-mile long distance that is regarded as the most important of the three events required to win a Triple Crown. It is a hugely important race for horse owners and jockeys, and a good result will give the horse great prestige, which in turn attracts sponsorship from luxury brands.
Another major event in the US is the Breeders’ Cup, a multi-race series that features some of the most elite Thoroughbreds from around the world. It is a hugely competitive event that has been in existence since 1839, and it attracts some of the world’s best riders and stables. It is a very popular race to bet on and has seen some of the largest betting handles in history.
A number of other major horse races take place around the globe, ranging from sprints to four-mile races. These are a test of speed and stamina, and the skill of the jockey in coaxing a slight advantage from his mount is crucial to success. In some instances, a jockey may also be able to help his horse in the latter stages of a race by making strategic changes to its running line.
In the world of jump racing, horses typically progress to bigger and more difficult obstacles as they get older. In most European nations, a horse will begin its career in National Hunt flat races as a juvenile, then move on to hurdling, and finally – if it is deemed capable of it – steeplechasing. These changes in obstacle size and distance are a vital part of the judging process that determines the annual Horse of the Year rankings.