While a lot of our content is geared towards those knowledgeable about horse racing, in this article, we’ll offer something to beginners about what makes horse racing probably one of the most versatile sports activities you can enjoy during your leisure time. You’ll also learn the basics of betting on horses, which is a big part of the horse racing world. How did this type of sport become a favorite for thousands of people all around the globe? Let’s find out.

Who Can Participate?

Part sport, part art, horse racing requires a lot of skill, concentration, and strategy to win. Watching a thoroughbred horse run at top speed, hoping to cross the finish line first, makes this sport so interesting and a royal favorite since many centuries ago.

As a sport, horse racing is open to all. However, you must remember that this is a high-risk sport that requires a high level of skill and knowledge, so if you decide to try your hand at racing horses, be prepared to spend lots of time practicing. 

You don’t have to own a horse to race, but you do have to have the right equipment and training, as well as a thorough knowledge of the sport. To become a successful racer, you need to know everything there is to know about the horses you’ll be working with. You must know their breeding history as well as their personality traits.

Betting in Horse Racing

Perhaps you already know this, but horse racing is about much more than just the race. Horse racing betting is the oldest form of sports wagering and is a big part of this sport.

There are two main types of betting in horse racing – fixed-odds betting and win-place-splits betting. Fixed-odds betting is a simple method in which you wager a certain amount on the outcome of the race and win a larger amount if you are right and nothing if you are wrong. 

On the other hand, win-place-splits betting involves betting on multiple horses and winning different amounts if your horses come first, second, or third. Betting in horse racing can be an excellent activity, but knowing how much you can spend and how long you can afford to keep betting is important. There are many online resources where you can learn more about betting or hire a trainer to help you pick out horses and riders.

Types of Horse Racing

There are many types of horse racing. The most popular are flat racing, Steeplechase, harness racing, and pony racing. 

In flat racing, thoroughbreds race on a level surface and cover a set distance. 

Steeplechase is an obstacle race that takes place on a course with jumps, water jumps, and ditches. 

Harness racing, which is quite popular in Australia, New Zealand, and North America, involves using a cart called a sulky, which is pulled by a horse. 

Pony racing, on the other hand, is a type of horse racing in which ponies and small horses are used.