Across the world, horse racing is a spectacle. It is one of the oldest sports in the world, and has evolved from a competition of speed to a sport with large fields of runners. There are famous horses and owners. They often travel abroad to compete in prestigious races.
The first recorded horse race was held in France in 1651. This race resulted from a wager between two noblemen. The two horses were named Epicenter and Zandon. The race was held on a two-mile course called Newmarket after the British racecourse. In the race, Rich Strike passed prerace favorites Zandon and Epicenter to win. He was the last horse to enter the stretch when he ran the first half of the race at a fast pace. He scooted up the rail to finish first.
Horse racing spread to North Africa and neighboring countries. By the nineteenth century, organized horse racing was established in the United States. It began with Col. Richard Nicolls, who laid out a two-mile course on the plains of Long Island. He offered a silver cup to the best horses in the country.
Handicap races have become a major type of Thoroughbred horse race. The goal of handicapping is to make all horses equal in their ability to win. The handicaps are set by individual tracks or racing jurisdictions, and are based on past performance.
The age of a horse is a major consideration in handicapping. The classic age is three years. This has led to fewer races with horses older than four. In addition, racehorses reach their maximum level of performance at age five. This means that many horses compete at lower levels before they reach the top level.
Graded stakes races are the top level. These races feature the best horses from all over the country. These races are typically held at least two weeks in advance. In some cases, the races may be held on days with no restrictions on age or gender.
A backmarker is a horse that is too young or not fully fit. It is usually located on the far side of the track away from the crowd. A backmarker may also be a horse that is not bred in the state.
In North America, the pinnacle of horse racing is the Kentucky Derby. The Belmont Stakes and Preakness Stakes are also considered classic races. The Triple Crown is a series of races that include the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes and the Preakness Stakes. This series is comprised of three races, which vary in distance and spacing. The order of the races is also variable.
Horse racing is a worldwide industry. Horses are shipped from one country to another for breeding and racing. The sport is often associated with gambling. Some racing tipsters are reputed to stand for Napoleon.
The Thoroughbred Racing Association was created to improve the economic conditions in Thoroughbred racing. The American Thoroughbred was a hallmark of excellence, as stamina was a significant factor. After the Civil War, speed became a goal.