Horse Racing History
Horse racing is an equine sport where horses ridden by jockeys compete over a set distance. Although the specific beginnings are not completely known, the sport has been enjoyed by horse lovers and gambling enthusiasts alike for centuries. Whether you are a fan or are looking to learn more, here is a short history lesson.
The first recorded horse race
Although it is hard to know the exact time and place where horse racing was established, some of the earliest recorded events can be traced back to the Greek Olympic Games in 700 to 40 B.C. Riders participated in both four-hitched chariots and mounted bareback races. Quickly the fun spread to surrounding countries such as China, Persia, and Arabia. It also spread to Middle East and North Africa, where horse racing continued to evolve and develop into the sport we know and love today.
Horses were ridden by professional riders in an attempt to demonstrate their top speed to potential buyers in medieval England. With knights as the riders, the first recorded racing purse of 40 pounds was also offered during this time for a three-mile race.
Organized horse racing
As the popularity of horse racing grew, it wasn’t long before organized horse racing expanded. The King’s Plate races were introduced by Charles II. They were one of the first-known horse races in which winners were awarded prizes. With the organized competition came the first recorded set of horse racing rules, many of which still apply today.
The practice of betting on horse racing can be traced back to this time with the reign of Louis XIV. It is believed that organized horse racing in the United States began in New York City in the 1600. Multiple race courses were developed on the plains of Long Island. It is interesting to note that during this time, stamina tended to be the success factor for equestrians verses speed.
Modern horse racing
Modern horse racing is widely believed to have begun in the 18th Century. The first modern horse race was introduced in England in 1776 and named the St. Leger. This was then followed by the Oaks in 1779 and the Derby in 1780.
Following England’s lead with the inauguration of the Prix du Jockey Club in 1836, France created the Grand Prix de Paris in 1863, and the Prix l’Arc de Triomphe in 1920. The United States joined the excitement by introducing the Belmont Stakes in 1867. This was followed by the Preakness Stakes in 1873 and the Kentucky Derby in 1875. These races constitute the U.S. Triple Crown and only 13 horses have finished first in all three to complete the sweep.
Technological advances
Similar to other sports and industries, horse racing has been impacted by a series of technological advances in recent years. While the sport has maintained many of the original rules, regulations, and traditions, it has also benefited from the onset of the so-called Information Age. Race safety is one of the largest changes to the industry. Both the horses and jockeys are now subject to improved security measures on and off the racetrack. For example, thermal imaging cameras can detect when a horse is overheating post-race, MRI scanners, X-rays, and endoscopes can pick up on a number of minor or major health conditions before they deteriorate, and 3D printing can produce casts, splints, and even prosthetics for injured or ailing horses.
Mobile sports betting has also revolutionized the horse racing industry and turned it into a multi-billion-dollar business. Prior to the ‘information age’, betting was done in person via pari-mutuel tellers or bookmakers. Today fans can bet on their favorite horse from the comfort of their own home in real-time with most races live streamed to millions of screens all over the world. As a result, consumers can also compare odds, pay using electronic payment methods, and keep track of their betting slips in one handy location. TwinSpires, Off Track Betting, and OLBG are just a couple sites that offer horse racing betting and tips.
Horse Racing Partnerships
Horse racing is one of the oldest and most popular sports and remains popular with millions of fans today. Admittedly, many dream of owning their own race horse. Horse partnerships, multiple owners owning one race horse, has been happening for decades simply due to the largest costs associated with the initial horse purchase and then all expenses that are encountered. Organized horse partnerships first gained popularity in the 1970s as a tax shelter vehicle for race horse owners and breeding rights. Today, owning a share of a race horse is very possible for anyone.
Few will argue that the thrill of owning a share of a winning race horse is any different than simply being the sole owner of the horse. Horse partnerships make it possible for any horse racing enthusiast to become a race horse owner. Equine Racing Partnerships, a well-known horse partnership, provides the finest opportunities for anyone looking to enjoy the thrill of horse racing as an owner. They assume the responsibility of purchasing the horse, all care associated with the horses’ basic need to all training needs, race entries, etc. Your responsibilities include a one-time horse ownership fee and complete enjoyment of your incredible equine athlete plus good old FUN!
By familiarizing yourself with the history of the first recorded horse race, organized horse racing, modern horse racing, technological advances, and horse racing partnership, you can either enjoy betting on someone else’s horse or you can enjoy betting on your own. Contact 785-614-1489 for horse partnership opportunities.