A horse race is a contest of speed between a human and a horse, in which the human rides on the back of the animal or pulls it in a sulky with a driver. The competition has a long history, beginning in ancient Greece and Rome, then gaining popularity throughout the world, especially during the industrial revolution when it was promoted as a source of entertainment and recreation for the masses. The game has also been a prominent feature in myth and legend, such as the contest between the god Odin and his steed Hrungnir in Norse mythology.
During a horse race, horses are subject to stress and fatigue as they run at speeds up to 105 miles per hour. As a result, the animals often experience injuries and breakdowns. While most people see the sport as glamorous, the reality is a grim one. Behind the romanticized facade of thoroughbred horse racing is a world of drugs, broken bones, gruesome breakdowns, and slaughter.
The sport of horse racing is regulated by the Jockey Club, which establishes rules governing race eligibility. Rules specify age, sex, birthplace, and other characteristics of runners, as well as the weight that must be carried by each entrant. The Jockey Club also oversees the safety of horses and racetracks, and maintains a national registry of jockeys and horses.
When a trainer wants to enter his or her horse in a specific race, he or she must submit an entry form and pay a fee. The entrant must also nominate an official jockey to ride the horse. The jockey must be licensed by the state in which he or she practices, and be in good standing with the jockey club. The Jockey Club also sets purses for races, which determine how much money is distributed to the winning horse and its owner.
Many horses are entered in claiming races. These races are designed to allow similar horses to compete against each other on a level playing field, creating a risk-reward situation for trainers. Running a horse in a claiming race can help a runner earn class relief, which can lead to a win and higher earnings. However, if the horse does not get claimed, it will lose its value and be returned to the trainer.
Despite a number of improvements in racing conditions, many horse owners and fans are turning away from the sport due to increased awareness of its dark side. Many are becoming more aware of abusive training practices, drug use, and the gruesome deaths of horses that occur in foreign slaughterhouses.