Whether you’re a seasoned horse racing fan or a novice, the thrill of the race is always exciting. Whether you’re watching the Breeders Cup, the Triple Crown, or a flat race, there’s a lot of fun to be had in the horse racing world.
Flat racing
Unlike Jump racing, flat racing takes place over shorter distances. It also tests the horse’s stamina. Most Flat races are one mile in length, but there are several races over two miles.
The difference between Jumps and Flat racing lies in their origins. Jumps are a form of National Hunt racing that combines hurdles and obstacles. It is run all year round, but the main action is in the spring and summer.
Flat races are more about speed and stamina. The lengths of the races vary, from 5 furlongs to 2 miles. Some are held on all weather surfaces, while others use a natural grass surface. Some flat races are run on synthetic surfaces. Some races are even held on dirt tracks.
Steeplechase
Originally a horse race held between church steeples, steeplechase has evolved into an athletic sport that is held across the world. Steeplechases have appeared at every Olympic Games since 1900.
Steeplechases are considered a type of obstacle-jumping race. They are also referred to as point-to-point races. They require horses to jump hurdles, water jumps, and fence obstacles. Generally, steeplechases are more difficult than flat races. The length of a race can range from two to four miles.
Triple Crown
Among the most notable horse racing events in the world is the Triple Crown. This is a series of three races for three-year-old thoroughbreds. It is an achievement which has been around for nearly a century.
The Triple Crown is made up of three races: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. They take place in the US and are held during the summer months. Each of the races is only a few minutes long, and the winning horse is awarded a prestigious silver bowl with a Fenian figure.
Breeders Cup
Getting to the Breeders Cup is an accomplishment for both humans and horses. Each year, racetracks across the country host a number of races, but the Breeders Cup is the culmination of the season. Usually held in November, the event is a series of races that take place over two days.
Horses from all over the country come to the United States for the Breeders Cup. They are selected based on a point system. Normally, the competition is fierce. There are eight races, all of which are Grade 1 races.
Handicap
Basically, handicapping is a system that determines a horses ability to perform. It is based on a horse’s racing performance and how it has performed in the past. This is done to provide each horse with an equal chance of winning.
The official handicapping system is designed to provide an equal playing field for all runners. The system is updated at least weekly.
The main system uses a weighting system to determine how much weight each horse should carry. The weight of the horse depends on its age and ability.