A horse race is a competition between two or more horses, usually on a track. The contest is typically timed and the winning horse receives a prize or reward. Horse races are popular spectator events, and betting on the outcome of a race is a long-standing tradition. The word “horse race” is also used in a figurative sense to describe a political contest, particularly an election, that can become competitive and drawn-out. The term has a negative connotation, and some observers believe that the media tends to treat electoral politics in the same way as a horse race, emphasizing who is ahead or behind and focusing on pundits’ predictions and polls rather than on policy issues.
The earliest records of horse racing date back to ancient times, and archeological evidence shows that the sport was practiced in many civilizations, including Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Babylon, Syria, Egypt, and Arabia. The sport also features in myth and legend, such as the contest between the steeds of Odin and Hrungnir in Norse mythology.
Horse racing is a worldwide sport, and there are many different types of races. Traditionally, Thoroughbreds are favored for high-class races, and stamina is as important as speed in these events. Nevertheless, many racetracks feature other breeds of horses for lower-class and regional races. In these races, a horse’s physical condition is often more important than its speed or stamina.
Before a race begins, horses will often be exercised on the course to get ready for their run. During these warmups, onlookers can observe the horses’ behavior and watch how they work with their jockeys or drivers. A jockey or driver’s style and record can play a significant role in the performance of a race horse.
During a race, a jockey’s skill and judgment are vital to the success of his or her mount. A rider can control a race by altering the horse’s stride length, applying pressure on the bridle to influence its direction, and by putting the rider in the right position on the track.
A jockey’s clothes and hat can also affect the performance of a horse. A jockey may wear silks to indicate ownership, or at some tracks, to designate post positions (yellow for one, blue for two, etc.). In addition, a rider may use a whip to guide and control his or her mount. A rider with the Look of Eagles, a confident and proud expression, is likely to win a race. On the other hand, a rider with a lug in, or a horse that drifts in during the final stretch, is likely to lose a race.