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Horse Racing Basics

Horse Racing Betting

Horse racing is perhaps one of the most common and attractive bets that punters place at online bookmakers. Every country that permits horse racing earns huge revenue through it.

However, not every one is aware that horse racing has more to it than four legged animals and simply placing horse racing bets.

For example, how many if us know about the various horse breeds other than those that run in the famous Kentucky Derby?

Horse racing has various connected activities that help us to witness and bet on the final race.

The Emergence of Horse Racing

The game emerged in United States of America when it was a mere colony. The first official race track in North America was a grassy pasture in Long Island.

This was the privileged track where Bulle Rock, the most popular horse of the eighteenth century, ran it's race.

In fact the Jockey Club, one of the most famous institutions today, came into existence way back in 1750. Eventually racing spread westwards with more families migrating to newer areas.

However, horse racing was not always as strong as it is now. It had to overcome fierce legislations and wars between different bookmakers - even the best bookmakers.

The first Kentucky Derby was organised after the Civil war. At present the most prestigious American races include Kentucky Derby, the Preakness, and the Belmont Stakes.

Most Famous Racing Horse

The most famous racing horse of all times would always be the Seabiscuit. The horse fascinated the Americans so much that it has inspired a novel and a movie, as well.

Seabiscuit was discovered in 1934, and won its first races in 1937. This legendary horse attained such popularity that death threats were made against him.

One such plot was unearthed and made headlines right around the World.

The most famous breed of horse is the thoroughbred. The ancestors of this horse were bred in Europe from Arab and Turk sires.

These were then imported from England, in 1700's, and have multiplied since then.

This horse has a capacity to carry heavy weights and gallop steadily for long distances. These characteristics make this royal horse perfect for racing tracks.

Another breed that online bookmakers let you bet on is the Quarter horse. The quarter horse can sprint well over small distances and are known for their 'cow sense'.

Though they are used in races as well, they are primarily bred for ranches and herding cattle. Thoroughbreds are sometimes used to improve the racing capabilities of this breed.

Horse Racing Accidents

The speed and adventure in these races make accidents quite common in horse racing. The lack of distances between the competitors endangers both the horse and its jockey.

Slipping of the horse can be fatal for the jockey as he might get crushed by the other horses.

Any mishap can be dangerous for the audience as well, as the horse might get a scare and choose to run away from the tracks. The most common event in horse races is online betting. The adventure and uncertainty of the game attracts various bettors.

Knowing the personal, medical, and racing history of the horse can help in placing the odds. Other factors can be the jockey and the prevalent weather conditions.