Types of Horse Races
If you love to watch horse races, you may be interested in knowing about different types of races, from National Hunt to Steeplechase. There are also several types of handicap races to choose from. Read on to learn more about them. You’ll have a better understanding of these races and be better prepared to bet on them.
Steeplechase race
The Steeplechase race is a popular athletic event in which athletes race over water jumps and hurdles. The sport dates back to the 18th century, when it originated in Ireland. In 1752, a horse race was held between two church steeples in rural County Cork. The course included steeples, a wall, and several fences. In 1865, the steeplechase became a track event.
The steeplechase is a 3,000-meter race that is difficult and challenging. The participants must climb over a series of four barriers, one of which is a 12-foot water pit. These obstacles can make a steeplechase race seem impossible.
National Hunt race
A National Hunt horse race is a type of horse racing in which the horses have to jump over obstacles, such as fences and ditches. Informally, these obstacles are called “jumps.” There are two main types of National Hunt races: the hurdles and the steeplechases. There are several different ways to watch a National Hunt horse race.
National Hunt races are run over distances ranging from 2+1/2 to three+1/2 miles. They may also have obstacles in their course. National Hunt horse races are classified according to class, with listed races being class one.
King’s Plates
The Queen’s Plate is the oldest Thoroughbred horse race in Canada, and it has been running continuously since 1860. It is run over one-and-a-half miles and is open to seventeen three-year-old Thoroughbred horses foaled in Canada.
The first King’s Plates were held in 1651 and were restricted to six-year-olds carrying 168 pounds. Later, the weight limit was increased to 140 pounds, making it one of the top prize races in horse racing. Today, the King’s Plate remains one of the most important races in horse racing.
Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes horse race has been running since 1873. The race is held at Pimlico in Baltimore, Maryland, and was named after the winner of the Dinner Party Stakes. Its original distance was a mile and a half. The first winner was My Sheba, who won by 10 lengths. The race was first televised on CBS in 1948.
The race is broadcast on several channels and streaming services. Attending a race is always a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon, especially if you are with friends and family. It’s also a great way to try out a new hobby. Each year, the winning horse is draped with a blanket covered with Black-Eyed Susans and Viking poms.