The horse race is more than a sport or a form of entertainment; it is steeped in culture and tradition and a celebration of the human and equine spirit. From the simple chariot races of ancient Rome to today’s high-tech event at the Kentucky Derby, horse racing is a time-honored sport that evokes the grandeur of bygone eras and continues to fascinate spectators with its splendor and pageantry.
The first races in history were merely demonstrations of speed and endurance, but the addition of prize money transformed horse racing into an international sport that has captivated millions. The addition of prizes increased the thrill of watching a good horse win, as well as provided incentives for owners and jockeys to push their horses even harder.
Today, racegoers can place bets on horse races at tracks around the world and watch them in their homes through television broadcasts. These betting options have made the horse race a major source of revenue and, for many, it is the sole reason they attend a track.
Horses are bred and trained to run fast in order to earn winnings for their owners and trainers. They are forced to sprint at speeds so fast that they often suffer injuries and, in some cases, hemorrhage from their lungs (exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage). These horses are pushed so hard that they will be willing to do whatever it takes to win. This includes taking cocktails of legal and illegal drugs to mask injuries and enhance performance.
Injuries are common, with the most serious being fractured sesamoids. A fracture of the sesamoid bones is usually a small chip but, in some cases, the bone can break completely. Horses that are injured are typically withdrawn from the race and may not return until they have fully healed.
A good racehorse is able to cover ground quickly and with grace. He is also able to run under the most difficult conditions, such as in a rain-soaked race or on slick turf. He is also able to run against older and faster horses while maintaining a high level of consistency throughout his career.