A horse race is a competition in which horses are ridden by jockeys (also known as riders) to win a wager. It has been practiced in many civilizations since ancient times, including Ancient Greece, Rome, Babylon, Syria, and Egypt, where archaeological records of races date to at least 3500 BCE. It plays a significant role in myth and legend, such as the contest between Odin’s steed Hrungnir and the giant monster Fenris Wolf in Norse mythology. In modern times, the sport of horse racing is a multibillion-dollar industry in North America and other countries with professional racing organizations. It is often seen as a cruel spectacle, characterized by the inevitable injuries and deaths of thousands of thoroughbreds every year.
A thoroughbred racehorse is a breed of horse that is designed for speed and endurance, particularly long-distance races. They are bred and raised with the intention of being sold for racing, though some are retained by their owners and remain in training throughout their careers. Thoroughbreds are classified as a sport and regulated by laws governing breeding, racing, and ownership.
In the United States, organized horse racing began with the British occupation of New Amsterdam in 1664. It became a popular pastime and eventually was established as a national sport. It is a multibillion-dollar business that has generated controversy over the treatment of its horses, most notably the use of banned drugs.
The most prestigious races in North America are known as graded races, and the top horses earn a place in the Triple Crown series. These are held in a variety of venues, and the prize money is substantial. Many other races are categorized as handicaps, and the horses’ assigned weight is intended to reflect their ability and the number of other competitors in the race. Other factors are taken into account, such as age, sex, and past performance.
Individual flat races are usually run over distances of a quarter, half, or one mile. They may be contested over dirt, grass, or artificial tracks. Historically, these races were primarily showcases for the aristocrats and noblemen who owned the horses. They were ridden by professionals known as jockeys, who rode the horses bareback. The races were conducted on open fields, and the riders were often young boys.
Ownership turnover is high in horse racing, and many horses are sold multiple times during their careers. A common way to sell a racehorse is to enter them in races called claiming races, which allow the purchase of a horse after the race and immediate possession by the new owner. This system is often criticized for the way it treats equine athletes, and many races have been boycotted by animal welfare activists over their alleged cruelty. In addition to a high rate of owner turnover, the physical demands of horse racing can result in serious injuries. These injuries are sometimes fatal, and the majority of horses that are not winners end up in slaughterhouses, where they are sliced and diced for consumption as meat, glue, or dog food.