A horse race is a contest of speed and stamina between horses that are either ridden by jockeys or pulled by sulkies (sulky drivers). A variety of breeds are used for flat races, including Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, Arabians, Paints, and Appaloosas. Jump races can be run on a dirt track or over obstacles like hurdles, fences, or banks. The first horse to cross the finish line is declared the winner. The sport has entranced spectators for centuries, and the basic rules of the game remain unchanged.
Modern rules governing the sport require all horses to be examined by veterinarians prior to a race, and a trainer or owner must sign a declaration of fitness. The racetrack and the state or country in which the event is held must also be licensed to accept wagers. Most national horse racing organizations have a rulebook that regulates how races are conducted, and varying rules may exist within different states or countries.
While a number of factors can influence the outcome of a race, one of the most important is the condition of the track. A muddy track can slow the horses down, while a dry track is often faster. The weather can also play a role, with windy conditions being especially difficult for horses to race in.
The history of horse races dates back to the earliest games of skill between a jockey and his mount. The ancient Greek Olympic games featured a similar contest between riders, and horse racing continued as a popular pastime during the Middle Ages in Europe. During the reign of Louis XIV (1643-1715), horse races were a major industry in France, and gambling was the main reason for their popularity.
By the early 19th century, demand for horse races had grown to such an extent that open events were introduced with larger fields of runners. Eligibility rules were established based on age, sex, and birthplace of the horses, as well as previous performance. Races were also organized in which owners provided the purse and took part in a simple wager, with an owner who withdrew forfeiting half or, later, the entire amount of the bets. These agreements were recorded by disinterested parties, who became known as keepers of the match book.
Jockeys are also required to follow certain guidelines during a race. While there are some exceptions, extreme whip use is illegal in most states and can result in serious injuries to horses. A 2009 study published by PETA found that a horse named Appeal to the City hemorrhaged around its eye after being struck by a jockey using a whip more than 32 times during a race. While some jockeys do admit to using the whip sparingly, this is not common practice in top races.