When it comes to judging the merit of horses, there are three main classifications. These are front-runners, stalkers, and closers. The front-runners often win wire-to-wire, while stalkers and closers sit right behind the first flight of horses, typically less than two lengths back. They look to make a late run.
Distances in horse races
In horse races, distances can vary significantly based on the size and stride pattern of the horse. A classic example of this is Secretariat, who won the 1972 Belmont Stakes by 31 lengths. There are several different distances used in horse racing, so it is important to understand each distance in detail.
Rules of horse racing
The Rules of horse racing are a set of rules that govern the conduct of races. The winner of a race is the horse and rider who cross the finish line first. If there is a tie in the finish line, a dead heat rule is used. In a dead heat, the horses’ owners are unable to agree on a winner and the stewards decide who takes home the prize money.
A horse must be nominated for a race by a person or entity known as a ‘nominator’. This person or entity must then pay the prescribed fee. A horse may also be contested by any person or entity, and this claim can be made verbally.