Horse racing is ranked among the most entertaining sporting disciplines in the world. The sport comprises many different categories of racing. Each category is used to test the specific skills of a horse and jockey. Here are some of the most popular categories in horse racing.
Flat Racing
This is the most popular type of horse racing. Only thoroughbred horses are allowed to participate in this race type. The race takes place on a flat service. These races are run for 1-3 miles depending on the specific event. It is used to test either stamina or speed or both. Turf tracks are preferred to dirt tracks in flat racing.
Jump Racing
This category of horse racing is also known as National Hunt. The race gives horses several obstacles to jump over as they compete. Horses are required to avoid ditches, fences or hurdles during the competition. This category of horse racing is very popular in the United Kingdom, Ireland and France.
Endurance Racing
Horses in this race are required to race for longer distances compared to other events. It is used to test the longevity and endurance of horses on the track. This type of race is not very popular as it consumes a lot of time. All horse breeds are allowed to participate in this race.
Harness Racing
Harness racing requires horses to pull a sulky. Horses in this race are required trot at a predetermined speed. Galloping leads to a penalty which forces horses to slow down. The Prix d’Amerique is the most popular harness racing event in the world.
Quarter Horse Racing
This type of race tests the speed of various horse breeds. The race takes place on a quarter-mile track or less. Fast breeds of horses are used in this race. The All American Futurity is one of the most popular quarter horse racing events in the world.