Understanding The Most Popular Horse Races

Horse racing, known among enthusiasts as The Sport of Kings, has a thrill not comparable to any other. The combination of man and beast in such a charged environment is what attracts millions to witness the races both in person and on broadcast screens. Each race type has features that make it unique.

Stakes Racing

This is a variant of flat race that is meant explicitly for experienced horses. Think of it like the golden team at the end of every season in the NBA Finals or the UEFA Champions League Finals. It is a finale of sorts, with the Kentucky Derby race as the most popular.

Flat Racing

Aptly named, this type of race is run on a flat course. It is the most predominant in courses worldwide for obvious reasons like ease of setting up the racetrack and the ability to accommodate more horses.

Let that not fool you that it is a boring race, though. The flat surface allows jockeys to get horses to full speed. Challenges are presented by taking bends at such high speed and trying to overtake other horses in a crowded race. A mistake by one horse may lead to an entire race crashing. The twist is, avoiding getting tripped is challenging.

Jump Racing

The Kings must have been one bored lot. They named another race so plainly that explaining its meaning almost feels dumb. The race involves obstacles and water ditches that horses must go over as they get through the course. The race is as thrilling as it is picturesque – most of the news photos you will see in horserace news will be of great horses going over barriers.

Speed is not a major strength in this race. Instead, stamina and skill are more likely to carry the day. The jockey’s skill is also heavily called into question in this one.