Typically, horse races involve two or more horses ridden by jockeys, who race over a predetermined distance. Each race is different, but the main rules are similar. There are several types of races, including harness racing, Stakes races, and the Prix d’Amerique.
Betting rules
Using the pari-mutuel betting system, horse racing bets are pooled together. These are taken in one minute before the actual race begins. After the horses have passed the gate, the wagers are forfeited.
There are three main types of horse race wagers: place bets, win bets, and show bets. Each type has its own benefits and pitfalls. There are also a few exotic wagers to consider, like exactas, trifectas, and even straight wagers.
The most basic horse betting scheme is a place bet. In this type of wager, the horse is required to finish first or second place in order to win the wager. The payout for a place bet is much smaller than that of a win bet.
Harness racing
Traditionally, harness racing is a sport that focuses on speed and athleticism. The horse is tethered to a light cart and pulls it around a course. The driver steers the horse, using weight and tactics to advance their position.
The race starts from a motorized starting gate, or mobile barrier. The horses then line up behind a hinged gate mounted on a moving vehicle. The starting gate accelerates away from the horses, and the horses move forward to start.
Stakes races
Among the many types of horse racing events, stakes races have the highest purses and are considered the pinnacle of horse racing. They are held on various types of courses and can be held during all the seasons of the year.
Stakes races are highly competitive events where horses are tested for their stamina and speed. Prize money can range from $75k to millions. Some stakes races focus on specific skills or types of horses.
Stakes races have a history spanning thousands of years. They can be traced to Ancient Rome, Ancient Babylon, and Ancient Egypt.
Prix d’Amerique
Davidson du Pont is the new favourite to win the Prix d’Amerique on Sunday, after winning the Prix de Belgique last month. The 9-year-old trotter is a son of Pacha du Pont and lives in the stable of trainer Jean-Michel Bazire.
The race is one of three international major events, the other two being the Grand Prix d’Amerique and the Prix de Belgique. It attracts a crowd of 40,000 fans each year. The race is broadcast in 30 countries.
Dubai World Cup
Originally held on the all-weather surface Tapeta, the Dubai World Cup was moved to the Meydan Racecourse in 2010. The prestigious race is held every year on the last Saturday in March.
Located in the Emirate of Dubai, the Meydan Racecourse is the largest integrated racetrack in the world. It is able to hold 60,000 fans in its grandstands. It is also a heaving hub on the last Saturday in March, when the city becomes abuzz with excitement.