Crossing the Finish Line: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, “Crossing the Finish Line” refers to the exact moment when a racehorse passes the finish line at the end of the race. This act marks the horse’s placement before any official review and serves as the initial indicator of race results. 2. Background and Mechanism Finish line crossing is the … Read more

Scratched / Excluded: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, “Scratched” or “Excluded” refers to the official removal of a horse from a scheduled race before it begins. This decision is typically made by the race organizer and occurs before the final race lineup is confirmed. It differs from a voluntary withdrawal or a late scratch just before the start. … Read more

Entry / Participation: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, “Entry” refers to a racehorse’s official participation in a specific race. It indicates that the horse has been formally approved and confirmed to run in the race, making it a fundamental concept in racing. 2. Background and Process For a horse to be entered in a race, the following steps … Read more

Starting Gate: Horse Racing

1. Definition The “Starting Gate” is a mechanical device used in horse racing to hold horses in individual stalls before a race begins and to release them simultaneously at the start. It plays a vital role in ensuring a fair race start. 2. Background and Mechanism To guarantee fairness and uniformity in the start, the … Read more

Start / Race Start : Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, the term “Race Start” refers to the official moment when a race begins—when the horses break from the starting gate and the competition is underway. This marks the precise start of both the race and the official timing. 2. Background and Mechanism A race start is not a simple action … Read more

Owner: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, an “owner” is an individual or organization that legally possesses a racehorse. Owners are responsible for the purchase, registration, and financial upkeep of the horse. They entrust trainers with daily care and racing decisions and are entitled to a major share of prize money when their horse wins. 2. Background … Read more

Trainer: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, a “trainer” is a licensed professional responsible for overseeing the care, conditioning, and race preparation of racehorses. Trainers manage all aspects of a horse’s development and serve as the key decision-maker regarding training schedules, race entries, and horse management. They are officially licensed by racing authorities such as the JRA … Read more

Stable: Horse Racing

1. Definition In horse racing, a “stable” refers to both the physical facility where racehorses are housed and trained, and the organizational unit that manages the horses, including trainers, jockeys, and support staff. It is a core element of racehorse management and preparation. 2. Background and Structure A stable is far more than a barn; … Read more

Jockey: Horse Racing

1. Definition A jockey is a professional rider who competes in horse races by controlling and guiding racehorses on the track. In the context of horse racing, jockeys play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of races and are licensed by governing bodies such as the Japan Racing Association (JRA) or local racing authorities. … Read more

Racehorse: Horse Racing

1. Definition A “racehorse” refers to a horse that is specifically trained and registered to compete in horse racing events. Typically, Thoroughbreds are used due to their speed, stamina, and racing temperament. These horses are considered athletes in their own right. 2. Background and Structure Racehorses go through a structured development process before entering races: … Read more