A horse race is an event in which people wager money on the outcome of a contest between a group of horses. The horses are raced over a specified course and the first one to cross the finish line is declared the winner. There are several different types of horse races, including jumps and flat races. The sport of horse racing is regulated by the governing body known as the British Horseracing Authority.
The history of organized horse races dates back to ancient civilizations. Both chariot and mounted (bareback) racing were popular forms of entertainment in the Olympic Games of 700-40 bce. It is likely that racing of both chariots and barebacks was also common in China, Persia, Arabia, and North Africa, where horsemanship was highly developed.
Flat racing is typically held over distances from 440 yards to more than four miles. The most prestigious flat races are known as classics and are run over distances in the middle of this range, as they combine tests of speed with stamina. The Derby and the Preakness Stakes are two of the most famous examples of a classic.
Unlike jumps races, which are typically contested on grass or dirt tracks, flat horse races can be held on a variety of surfaces including turf and asphalt. The track’s conditions can largely determine the outcome of the race. A muddy or wet track will slow down the horses, while dry tracks are more conducive to fast speeds.
A veterinary inspection, which is known as a vet check, is another factor that can influence the outcome of a race. This involves a thorough examination of each horse to ensure it is fit to continue competing. If the horses fail the vet check, they will be pulled from the race. The veterinary inspection can take up to two hours to complete, so it is important that the horses are in good condition and well fed before participating in the race.
The earliest recorded horse races were match races between two or at most three horses, where the owners provided the purse and a simple wager was made. These agreements were recorded by disinterested third parties, who became known as keepers of the match books. This helped to prevent “ringers,” where superior horses were entered against inferior ones. Later rules were introduced to control gambling in horse races, including requiring certificates of ownership and imposing extra weight for foreign horses.