CRACKING HORSE RACING CODES
Horse racing is divided into two groups, which are referred to as the sport's two codes. The first is flat racing, which is played on either grass or all-weather surfaces and has no hurdles for horses to pass over. In the United Kingdom, the other code is known as National Hunt or jumps racing. It is often held on grass and usually includes a steeplechase or minor jumps.
LIFE SPAN OF A HORSE
While the average racehorse lives for about 30 years, they normally retire from racing at the age of 15. No racehorse older than 18 has ever run a race, demonstrating that these agile animals are at their finest while they are in their youth.
WEIGHT OF RACE
A horse weights about 1,000 pounds on average, which puts the work of a jockey into context. Although it might seem that they do not have an especially difficult challenge of racing, keep in mind that they are riding massive animals traveling at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.
HORSE RACING HISTORY
Horse racing originated on the Eurasian continent, and evidence shows that it was a common sport as early as 4,500 BC. Horse racing has been recorded in ancient Greece and Rome, with representations of chariot racing on pottery and also references of literary works by Homer.
HORSE RACE WAS ONCE ILLEGAL
Horse riding was outlawed in the United Kingdom during the 16th century, and the government purchased the rest of the horses. Fortunately for horse owners and racing enthusiasts, the prohibition was short-lived, and the sport soon regained popularity.
