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Guide.
May 29, 2014 12:22:23 GMT
Post by Louis on May 29, 2014 12:22:23 GMT
Horse Racing Explained – A Beginners Guide.
Racing is divided into two codes. Flat Racing and National Hunt Racing. Flat Racing as the term explains does not involve any jumps. National hunt however consists of steeplechase fences and hurdles (smaller than fences).
Only flat racing can be run on an all weather course.
Types of Races.
Flat Racing
A Maiden Race. Nothing to do with virginity. For horses that have not won a flat race.
A Handicap. Horses carry different weights to give each horse the same chance of winning.
A Group Race. Top of the tree including the classics, the Derby being one of them.
Listed Races. Very good races. One step below group races.
Condition & Stake Races. A race where horses may carry different weights depending on the age, sex and how many races the horse has won. Note this is not the same as a handicap. Some races can be restricted to single sex runners (not the jockeys).
Selling Races. The winner of these races is put up for public auction in the winners enclosure. If you are a spectator then don’t wave to a friend or you may have to take the horse home with you.
Claiming Races. The winner of these races is basically up for sale with a price tag attached. Often, the horses weights will depend on the amount of money required to claim (buy) the horse.
Nursery Handicaps. This is nothing to do with child jockeys but is a handicap race for 2 year old horses only.
Flat Racing nearly always begins in starting stalls.
National Hunt
A Novice Hurdle. For horses that start the season having not won a hurdle race. The winner of a novice hurdle will carry a weight penalty next time it runs in a novice hurdle.
A Maiden Hurdle. Only allows horses that have not already won a hurdle race.
Both these type of races can involve horses that could have won a flat race, a steeplechase, a national hunt flat race or a point to point.
Handicap Hurdle. Horses again carrying different weights. In hurdle races sometimes the weight can make a big difference especially if the ground is heavy.
Graded Hurdle. Some hurdle races carry certain conditions that affects the weight that each horse carries. Even at the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, a female horse will carry less weight than a male. (they don’t however hold the stable door open for them).
Steeplechase. The name steeplechase derives from a race that happened many years ago, when some people held a horse race in between two churches. The horses jumped anything that appeared to be in the way as they ran from one to steeple to another hence the name steeplechase.
Novice or Beginners. Chase For horses that start the season having not won a steeplechase. A Maiden Chase For horses that have never won a steeplechase except a point to point. However, they may have already won a hurdle or flat race.
Handicap Chases. we all know the most famous Handicap Chase in the world. The Grand National with horses carrying different weights to give each horse the same chance of winning.
Condition Chases. Horses may carry different weights but not as in a Handicap. The weights can vary depending on age, sex and previous form.
National Hunt Flat Race. Sometimes called a ‘bumper’. For horses starting out that have not run in any race except a national hunt flat race or a point to point.
A Hunter Chase. For horses that also have experience of running with a countryside hunt. Some horses in this category have been successful steeplechasers in their time.
Point to Point. These races are run but not under the ‘rules of racing’. Runners in these races are often participants of a countryside hunt and these races tend to attract the same clientèle. Some potential winners are often discovered at a local point to point.
National Hunt races start with a tape across the track or a flag in point to point races.
All races whether flat or national hunt have a class rating (1 being the best races). This is found at the top of the race card.
Jockeys.
Flat Jockeys carry less weight than National Hunt jockeys. The total weight that a horse carries is made up of the jockey plus weights fitted into the saddle (if required). Which is why you won’t find many jockeys tucking into steak & kidney pie & chips washed down with a few pints after racing. Most seem to live on fresh air.
Apprentice and Conditional Jockeys
Often shown on the race card following the jockeys name is a figure in brackets i.e. (7) (5) (3). This is the weight allowance that they receive depending on the number of winners that they have ridden. Some races are for apprentice and conditional jockeys only.
Amateur Jockeys
Some races are for amateur jockeys only. An amateur can ride against professional jockeys however professional jockeys are not allowed to ride in amateur races.
Weigh in and weigh out
All jockeys must weigh out (including the saddle) before a race. After the race the jockey must weigh in (again including the saddle). These weights must be the same or an objection can be lodged from the clerk of the scales. Once you hear ‘weighed in’ the result of the race is official and you can hopefully collect your winnings.
Other important people involved in racing are:
The Owner. Although the owner of the horse receive the prize money for winning they also have all the bills involved in racing the horse from the trainer, jockey, vet, blacksmith, transport and insurance.
The Trainer. Responsible for the training and well being of the horse along with taking care of all race entries.
The Starter. Person who is responsible for the start of the race including overseeing the loading of the starting stalls or line up for the start of a National Hunt Race.
Judge. This person decides the finishing order of the race and the distances between the horses. They do sometimes rely on a photograph to assist with their decision.
Stewards. The team of people that ensure that the race is run fairly and in accordance with the rules of racing. If they are unhappy about any element of the race then an enquiry will be held. This can often hold up the final outcome of the race therefore no winning betting slips can be presented until you hear ‘weighed in’ being announced. A stewards enquiry may also occur if one jockey objects to the stewards about another runner.
Helpful Hints.
A Male Horse is a Colt until its 5th birthday when it becomes a Horse. A Female Horse is a Filly until its 5th birthday when she becomes a Mare. A Gelding is a Male Horse that has been castrated. All horses born in the Northern Hemisphere have an official birthday on 1st January. Therefore, if you are a breeder then the sooner the horse is born after the 1st January the better. (not before as they automatically become a year older). Racehorses can race at 2 years old. Often called Juvenile Races.
The Race Card.
Main information on the race card is:
At the top of the page you will find the time that the race starts, the distance and type of race along with the name of the race which can incorporate the name of the sponsor.
On the left hand side of the race card you will find the owners colours that the jockey will be wearing along with the race card number of each horse.
Moving to the centre you will find the name of the horse along with a number in brackets. This is how many days since the horse last ran.
Below this you will find some of the following abbreviations. B g = Bay Gelding, Ch c = Chestnut colt, Gr f = Grey Filly, Br h = Brown Horse Following these abbreviations the name of the horses sire and dam will be shown.
The name of the owner of the horse will be shown below this, with the trainers name on the right.
Below this the horses form will be shown. This is displayed by letters such as C = course winner, D = Distance winner, C&D Course & Distance winner. Below this is a record of how the horse ran in previous races. 1 is won, R is refused, whilst F is fell and P meaning pulled up. 0 means that the horse was not placed in the first four.
Far right you will find the jockeys name along with some figures above it. The figures are the weight that the horse is carrying along with the draw number shown in brackets.
Sometimes after the horses name there could be a weight shown in brackets. (6lb ex) This means that the horse has a weight penalty to carry since its last run, before being re handicapped.
Helpful Hints.
If the form does not always inspire you with confidence about the horse then do bear in mind that the horse may have been running in better quality races and also over different distances to the one that you are looking at. This also means that the horse may have been running against better opposition than the horses in this race.
In some maiden races, all of the horses may have never run before. This means that no form will be shown. A good guide to follow can be the betting prices or maybe the top trainer or jockey at the race course. Alternatively, if you have no idea whatsoever then you might like the colours that the jockey is wearing in the race.
It is worth taking a look in the parade ring. You can see the horse that you may bet on and create your own opinion on how well the horse appears. e.g. good walker, looking fit & well.
The ‘going’ is the state of the ground on the course. This can be Firm, Good, Soft or Heavy. Some horses may show a preference for a particular type of going which is worth bearing in mind before placing a bet.
Draw advantage. (Flat racing only). On certain racecourses there can be an advantage to the horse that has a certain draw. Race card information and racing press should inform you when this is the case.
Blinkers. Some horses wear blinkers or visa to the side of each eye. This is to help the horse concentrate and does not mean that it can’t see where it is going.
Course & Distance Winners. In the UK all race courses vary in terms of running right handed or left handed, some up & down hills, some have tighter or difficult corners. Due to this a course and distance winner will have an advantage.
Placing your Bet.
Bookmakers are a funny breed with a language of their own. The odds are sometimes confusing to say the very least. If you remember learning fractions at school then you might stand a chance.
Some examples.
15/8 is 1 7/8 to 1 13/8 is 1 5/8 to 1 6/4 is 1 ½ to 1 5/4 is 1 ¼ to 1 7/4 is better odds than 13/8. 1/1 or even money gives you £1 back for each £1 stake.
Always compare odds with a few bookmakers before placing you bet.
The favourite (fav) in the race is the shortest odds horse that is running. There can be joint favourites. The favourite can be ‘odds on’. This means that the return is actually less than you stake e.g. 2/1 on is shown as 1/2 therefore if you place a £2 bet to win and the horse wins then your return will be £1. You will receive £3 including your stake.
Whilst at the races you may notice people with white gloves waving their arms around. These are ‘Tic Tac’ people. The reason they wave their arms around is to signal to all the bookmakers what the odds are around the race course.
Placing your bet with a bookmaker.
When placing a bet you will need to quote the horses name or race card number. The odds will be shown on the bookmakers stand. You will also have to tell the bookmaker how much money you want to bet with (your stake) and also if you want a win or each way bet.
Once the transaction has taken place you will be given a ticket with the bookmakers name and your returns should the horse be successful.
Each way betting.
Betting each way gives you the opportunity to have a bet to win whilst also having a bet to be placed. There are 2 bets involved which is why it costs double the stake. If your horse wins then you will get winning returns and place returns, however if the horse is placed then you will get place returns only.
Place terms.
Races with 1-4 runners you can place a win bet only Races with 5-7 runners give a quarter of the odds on 1st & 2nd place. Races with 8 or more runners give a fifth of the odds on 1st, 2nd & 3rd place. Handicap races with 12-15 runners give a quarter of the odds on 1st, 2nd & 3rd place. Handicap races with 16 or more runners gives a quarter of the odds on 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th place.
Example. Loopy Loo with odds of 5/1 wins in a 8 horse race with a £1.00 each way bet on. £1.00 each way bet will cost £2.00. Return is £5.00 win plus £1.00 place plus stake of £2.00 therefore total return is £8.00.
Rule 4.
If a horse that is favourite or well fancied in the betting, is then withdrawn or does not come under starters orders then rule 4 applies. This involves a deduction on returns on the remaining horses in the race. This will be announced at the race course.
Placing a Bet with the Tote.
As a big fan of the Tote (their profits go back into racing). Winnings from the Tote are worked out including your stake at a £1 unit. It is a pool system therefore the fewer winning tickets the better the return.
Finding a Tote Window on the race course should not present a problem as they tend to be around every corner. Like with bookmakers you will give the horses race number and the amount you wish to bet with. There is quite a lot of information available relating to the return you will get from betting on each horse. The Tote staff are also very helpful and will help with any questions. You will receive a ticket with the horses number and the stake placed. The dividend will be announced after the race.
Each Way & Place Betting – As well as a win bet, you can place an each way or a place only bet on the Tote.
Place only bet – Even if your horse wins you will still get a place return on the bet. This is one bet instead of two like each way.
Each Way - Two bets which include one to win and one to be placed.
There are other bets with the Tote such as an Exacta which involves predicting the winner and second in the race, a Trifecta which involves predicting the first three in the race, the Totequadpot involves picking a horse to be placed in each of the four Totequadpot races, usually races 3,4,5 & 6 of a meeting and finally the Jackpot & Placepot. These can be great fun, the Jackpot involves picking the winners of the first six races whereas the Placepot involves picking a horse to be placed in the first six races.
Placing a bet in the Betting Shop.
These are the High Street betting shops (Tote included) that we normally all visit at least once a year to place a bet on the Grand National. These shops can also be found on the race course. To place a bet involves writing your own betting slip out with the horses name, the time it runs and how much you would like to bet on it and the type of bet.
Starting Price.
The expression starting price or often abbreviated to SP, is the off price. This means that instead of getting the price shown on the bookmakers stand you get a bet at starting price. This is the odds that the bookmakers set as an average between themselves just before the start of the race. This can sometimes prove better or worse than the price shown on the bookmakers stand at the race course.
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Guide.
Jul 21, 2014 19:19:16 GMT
Post by Kimmy on Jul 21, 2014 19:19:16 GMT
What does that mean Types of Races Purebred Arabian Races
Races that are restricted to Arabian horses only. Thoroughbred Races
Races that are restricted to Thoroughbred horses only. Maiden
For horses that have never won a race before. Handicap
All horses carry weights based on their ability which is assessed by the official handicapper. The horse with the highest handicap rating carries the most weight with all other horses carrying weight relative to their individual handicap rating. The idea being that this handicapping system means that all horses theoretically have an equal chance of winning. Many handicap races are limited to horses of a particular rating. For example a race may be restricted to horses rated between 95 and 110 and is often called a Rated Stakes. Conditions Race A notch below Listed standard. There are certain conditions for qualification. For example, the age or sex of the horse, winner of one race or more, winner of races of a certain value etc. Listed Races
The level of race just below Group races. Listed Races
The level of race just below Group races. Group 1, 2 & 3 Races The most valuable and prestigious races (Group 1 being the best) in which the best horses race. These races are sometimes referred to as pattern races. People in Racing Apprentice Jockey
A jockey who has not yet fully qualified by riding a set number of winners or reaching a certain age. Apprentices, often after a period of initial training, usually work for a trainer from whom they receive instruction, advice and support. They are also frequently referred to as 'claimers', as horses ridden by apprentice jockeys in a race receive a weight allowance, also sometimes known as a claim, with the weight reduction dependent on the experience of the jockey. The claim is listed in the racecard in brackets after the jockey’s name. Bloodstock Agent Person who purchases horses for other people as a business, charging a commission for his/her services. Breeder
The owner of a mare at the time she gives birth to a foal. Clerk Of The Course The person responsible for the overall management of a racecourse during the raceday. Clerk Of The Scales
The official whose duty it is to make sure the jockeys carry the allocated weights on horses in races, weighing them before and afterwards. Commentator The person who describes/commentates on the races as they happen. Farrier
A trained professional who carries out work on the preparation or treatment of the foot of a horse and fits shoes on each horse. The fitting of a shoe is mostly done through nailing, although shoes can also be glued on to a horse’s foot. Every horse will train and race in shoes. Racing shoes, also called plates, are made of aluminium, although some horses may train in steel shoes. Valet
Person responsible for looking after a jockey's equipment and assisting him between races with his equipment and silks. Veterinarian
A person qualified to medically treat horses. Groom
The person that looks after a horse on a daily basis and will lead the horse at the races. Also sometimes known as a stable lad in Europe or a strapper in Australasia. Handicapper
An official who assesses how a horse should be rated, taking into account its past performances. The handicap rating that is allocated to each horse determines the weight it will carry in a handicap race and also sometimes the races that it is eligible to run in. Jockey
Rider who partners a horse during a race, usually a professional. Judge
Official at the racecourse who determines the finishing position of each horse in a race, the distances between them and usually the winning time. Outrider
The riders on ponies out on the racetrack that assist with all troublesome horses and are responsible for catching any horses that may lose their jockey and run loose. Owner
A person owning part or all of a horse. An owner may be a single person, a group of people (often referred to as a syndicate) or a company. Each owner has their own set of colours which are registered with the relevant turf authority and are worn by the jockey riding their horse in a race. Paddock Steward
The official responsible for ensuring that the race meeting keeps to time, by deciding at what time the horses enter and leave the paddock, as well as for checking that all the equipment that each horse is wearing corresponds with what has been declared by the trainer. Racing Secretary
The official responsible for formulating the types of races that are run on each raceday which will ideally produce competitive racing with a good number of runners in each race. Starter
Racecourse official who co-ordinates the start of a race. His primary aim is to ensure that the start is level and fair. Stewards
The group of people in overall charge of a race meeting. They are responsible for ensuring adherence to the rules of racing. Trainer
Person with responsibility for preparing and training horses for racing. Valet
Person responsible for looking after a jockey's equipment and assisting him between races with his equipment and silks. Work Rider
Rider who partners a horse during its training work-outs. Tack & Equipment Bandages
Worn by horses to support or protect their legs during a race or exercise. Bit
A bar (usually made of stainless steel) which sits in the horse's mouth and is attached to the bridle. It is attached to the reins, jockeys use the reins and bit to steer and control the horse by applying pressure to the reins. Blinkers
A type of hood fitted to a horse's head that limits its field of vision, mainly from each side. Blinkers are used to help horses concentrate in races or to encourage them to run straighter. Body Protector
Protective vest that all jockeys are required to wear under their colours to help protect them in a fall. Breeches
Trousers worn by jockeys when race riding. Bridle
Piece of tack that fits over a horse's head and to which the bit and reins are attached. Cheekpieces
Pieces of sheepskin that are placed on each side of the bridle that perform a similar job as blinkers in helping the horse to concentrate and run straight through a slight restriction of its vision. Colours
The jacket and cap worn by jockeys in a race. Each owner has their own set of colours which are registered with the relevant turf authority. They are often referred to as 'silks' due to the fact they were originally made of silk. Nowadays, they tend to be made of light synthetic materials. Earplugs
Pieces of sponge that are put in a horse’s ears to muffle the noise of a raceday which can prove effective at keeping a horse relaxed before and during a race. Earplugs
Pieces of sponge that are put in a horse’s ears to muffle the noise of a raceday which can prove effective at keeping a horse relaxed before and during a race. Girth
Strip (usually made of leather and elastic) put under a horse's belly to which the saddle is attached. The girth keeps the saddle in place. Halter/Head Collar
Piece of tack similar to a bridle, but lacking the usual bit. Usually worn by horses when they are not being ridden in and around stables. Hood
A hood fitted over the horse’s head that covers its ears so to muffle the noise of a raceday to help keep the horse relaxed. Irons
Better known as stirrups where the jockey’s feet go. Combined with the reins, stirrups provide the jockey with the leverage to control a horse. They can be raised or lowered depending on the jockey's preference. Irons
Thoroughbreds in many countries nowadays have a tiny microchip inserted into their neck at a young age which can be scanned for the rest of their life to prove their identity. Microchip
Thoroughbreds in many countries nowadays have a tiny microchip inserted into their neck at a young age which can be scanned for the rest of their life to prove their identity. Noseband
Strap that goes over a horse's nose in order to secure the bridle. A variety of nosebands are used on racehorses to provide differing degrees of control and restraint and to sometimes help prevent the horse from getting its tongue over the bit which can obstruct its breathing. Number Cloth
Cloth under the saddle with the number of the horse printed on it and often the name of the horse or race sponsor. Sometimes knows as the saddle cloth. Pacifiers
Mesh eye-covers used to calm horses down. Passport
A horse’s identification document that is issued by the stud book of the country in which the horse was born. This document contains identification information, vaccination records, regulatory actions and a history of the horse’s international movements. The passport is used in conjunction with microchip scanning to verify a horse’s identity every time it runs in a race. Photo Finish
The equipment that takes an automatic picture as the horses cross the finish line, which allows the judge to consult a photo to determine the placings should two or more horses finish close together at the end of a race. Rails
The plastic barrier/fencing which determine the lay-out of a racetrack. These can be moved off the inside of the track should the ground on the inside of the racetrack need to be rested. Saddle
Piece of riding equipment on which the jockey sits on the horse. It is placed on the horse's back and usually has a cloth or pad placed underneath (known as the saddle cloth) to protect the horse's back and absorb sweat. Shadow Roll
A piece of sheepskin attached to the horse’s noseband which will make the horse keep its head down (since if it lifts its head its vision will be obstructed), which can make the horse easier to control and can also assist in relaxing them. Skull Cap
Helmet with certain specifications that all riders are required to wear for head protection when riding. Starting Stalls
Also known as barriers. Mechanism of starting compartments for the horses. Runners enter the stalls at the start of a race and, when all have been loaded, the starter operates a lever or button which opens all the front doors of the stalls simultaneously. Before stalls, horses lined up at the start behind a tape or barrier. The introduction of stalls, first used in North America, enables all horses to have an equal chance at the start. Also referred to as the starting gate or barrier. These can be moved from start to start. Surcingle
Strap placed over the saddle and girth to prevent them from moving. Tongue Tie
A strap or piece of stocking used to tie down a horse's tongue to prevent the tongue getting over the bit which affects a horse's breathing and the control of the jockey over the horse. Visor
A type of hood, much the same as blinkers, which limits a horse's rearward vision to aid concentration. A visor differs from blinkers as it has a small slit in the eye cups which allows a certain degree of light and vision for the horse in comparison to blinkers. Weight Cloth
Also known as a lead bag. A cloth with pockets for lead weights placed under the saddle. Weights
Lead placed in a weight cloth or lead bag to bring the jockey and tack up to the correct handicap weight. Whip
Used by jockeys to help keep horses under control and to encourage them. Every jockey’s whip must conform to strict measurements, while the amount and way in which a jockey can use the whip is governed by strict rules enforced by the stewards. Winning Post
Indicates where the finishing line is. Also called the ‘wire’ in North America. Racing Terminology Action
Also known as a horse’s gait. The way in which a horse moves. Age
Regardless of the date when they were born, all horses in the Northern Hemisphere become a year older on January 1st, whilst in the Southern Hemisphere it is July 1st (South America) or August 1st (Australasia). “All Out”
When a horse has to extend itself fully to win. Allowance
Also known as a claim, this is the weight allowance received by horses ridden by apprentice jockeys in a race, with the weight reduction dependent on the experience of the jockey. The claim is listed in the racecard in brackets after the jockey’s name. Backmarker
Horse at the back or at the tail of the field during a race. Backstretch
The back straight of the racetrack, furthest away from the stands, that falls between two bends. Backward
A horse that is not fit or fully developed. Ballot
Should there be more horses declared for a race than the specified maximum number of runners allowed in each race for safety reasons, then a ballot will occur to determine the final field. Each race will have different criteria determining which horses have to go into the ballot, but in a handicap, the field is simply made up of the horses with the highest handicap rating with a ballot occurring at the bottom of the field should two or more horses have the same rating. Additional criteria such as whether a horse has been balloted out before and whether the owner or trainer already has a horse in the field can also sometimes be factored into the balloting process. Black Type
Term used to show that horses have won or been placed in races of note, usually Group or Listed races. The term comes about because such races will always be written in a bolder, black type in a sales catalogue. Blanket Finish
When horses finish very close together at the end of a race, so close that a blanket could encompass them. Bleeder
Describes a horse that has experienced a rupture of some of the small blood vessels in the lungs, with resultant bleeding into the airway and appearance at the nostrils. Bleeding is often associated with poor racing performance and many regulatory authorities embargo such horses, often with a requirement to perform a gallop in front of officials before being allowed to race again. “Blown Up”
When a horse starts to drop out of contention in a race due to lack of fitness. “Blow-out”
When a horse is given a final sharp (short) workout a few days before a race. Bolt
When a horse runs away with its jockey. “Boxed In”
When a horse is unable to obtain a clear run during a race, due to other horses being in the way. Break
Term for when horses leave the starting stalls. “Breather”
Giving a horse in a race a chance to conserve some energy by easing off briefly to allow a concerted effort later in the race. Breeze
When a horse works at a fast speed Broken Down
When a horse sustains an injury generally to the legs. Broodmare
A mare (i.e. a female) at stud that is kept with the aim of producing a foal. ”Choked Down”
A horse may be described as having “choked down” in a race if its breathing has been obstructed in some way. Commonly, an abnormal displacement of a horse’s soft palate will compromise the airway and impair racing performance. Colic
Colic refers to abdominal discomfort, commonly due to a gastrointestinal disorder. Horses exhibiting signs of colic are regarded as a veterinary emergency and although the vast majority of colic conditions resolve with medical treatment, a small percentage of cases require surgical intervention. Severe cases can prove fatal. Colour
Colour
The body of colour Thoroughbred racehorses can be described as:
Black Coat, limbs, mane and tail are predominantly black.
Brown A mixture of black and brown in the coat. Black limbs, mane and tail.
Bay/Brown Coat is mainly brown with a bay muzzle. Black limbs, mane and tail.
Bay Any shade of brown between bay/brown and chesnut. A bay's limbs, mane and tail are always black however.
Chesnut Various shades of yellow/ginger hair on the body, ranging from an intense red-yellow through to a subtler golden yellow. Mane, limbs and tail may be any shade of coat colour or flaxen.
Grey A mixture of black and white hair all over.
Roan A mixture of red and white, or brown and white. Limbs, mane and tail may be black, roan or chesnut. Colt
A young, uncastrated male horse aged four years old or younger. Once older than four years, the colt is known as an entire or a horse (if still racing) or a stallion (if going to stud to breed). Conditions Book
The published book that outlines the races that will be run on any particular raceday. Conformation
A horse's physical make-up or build. Connections
People involved with a horse including the owner, trainer, jockey and stable staff. Consignor
The person offering a horse for sale through an auction either as or on behalf of the owner or vendor of the horse. Consignor
The person offering a horse for sale through an auction either as or on behalf of the owner or vendor of the horse. ”Cut in the Ground”
A description of the ground condition of the turf racing surface, when there is give in the surface, also called ‘soft going’. Dam
Mother of a horse. Dead-Heat
When the judge cannot split two or more horses at the finishing line. The winning prize-money is split between the horses that dead heat. Declare
When a trainer formally notifies the authorities that he/she intends to run a horse in a certain race. The runners and riders for each meeting are "declared" at least two days before the race in the UAE. Dirt
Type of racetrack where the surface is mainly made up of sand or dirt. Disqualification
When a horse is disqualified from a race by the stewards due to a serious rule infraction such as testing positive for a prohibited substance. Distance
The length of a race that is determined in metres in the UAE. 1000m is the shortest with the longest race in the UAE being 2400m for thoroughbreds. Longer races exist in other countries with jumping races of up to four and a half miles existing in the UK. Draw
A Flat racing term denoting a horse's position in the starting stalls. Dubai World Cup
The world's richest race, worth US$6 million in 2006, which was founded in 1996, and is run at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, Dubai, over 2000m on dirt in late March. Dwelt
A slow start by a horse in a race. Eased Down
When a jockey stops riding out a horse in a race. This is usually as a precaution against injury or when a horse is out of contention. Eligible
Qualified to run in a particular race. Embargo
When the stewards prevent a horse from being permitted to enter any race. Entries
Horses must be entered for a race before they can be declared and then run. The process of entering horses can have several stages, although these vary from country to country. Some important races, such as the races at the Dubai World Cup, have their first entry stage months before the race. Field
The collective term for the runners in a race. Filly
A female horse four years old or younger. Form
A horse's race record. Denoted by figures next to its name in a racecard. Furlong
An imperial unit of distance measurement in horseracing. One eighth of a mile or 220 yards or 200 metres. Galloping Track
Generally a wide-open track that suits bigger horses with big strides. Gate Schooling
The starter or stewards may request that a horse undergoes gate schooling at the starting stalls under their observation a few days prior to an intended race start, should the horse be new to the UAE and unknown to them or if it has behaved badly at the start in its previous race. Horses will often need to behave to the satisfaction of officials before they will be permitted to race. Gelding
Refers to a horses that has been castrated ("gelded") to improve his temperament. ”Get the Trip”
Usually said of a horse that stays the particular distance of the race. Going
The conditions underfoot on the racecourse. Green
A horse is described as "green" or "running greenly" when it shows signs of inexperience. ”Hacked Up”
When a horse has won easily. Half-Brother or Sister
When two or more horses share their dam but not their sire. Hands & Heels
Riding a horse without using a whip. Hands
The unit of measurement for assessing the height of horses. One hand is equal to four inches (just over 10cm). Horses are measured from the ground up to the withers and racehorses usually measure between 15 and 17 hands. A horse standing 62 inches would be described as 15.2HH. “Handy”
A description of a horse’s prominent position during a race. “Hanging”
When a horse is shifts or deviates inwards or outwards during the running of a race. Homebred
Horse bred by his or her owner. Home Turn
The final bend leading into the straight which has the finishing line on it. Inquiry
A process held by the stewards to adjudicate whether any rules have been broken. Stewards can disqualify horses and punish jockeys or trainers if there has been an infraction of the Rules of Racing. “In The Money”
Generally speaking, when a horse finishes in the first three or four. This term refers to the fact that in most races prize-money is available only to horses that occupy these positions, though increasingly prize-money is awarded further down the field these days in valuable events, often to sixth place and sometimes beyond. Juvenile
A two year old horse. Lame
A medical condition affecting the locomotor system of a horse due to disease or injury. Horses adjudged as lame by the racecourse vet will not be allowed to compete in a race. Length
The length of a horse from its nose to the start of its tail. The measurement used to describe the finishing distance between horses. A length actually equates to approximately 0.15 seconds in real time. Maiden
A horse that has not yet won a race or a female horse that has never had a foal. Mare
A female horse five years and over. Margins
The distance between the horses at the finish of a race. In ascending order, they are: Nose, Short Head, Head, Neck, ½ Length, ¾ Length, 1 Length, 1 ¼ Lengths, 1 ½ Lengths etc… Markings
The white marks on a horse that are different on every horse and are used to assist with their identification. Nearside
Left-hand side of a horse, from where riders are usually mounted. Non-Runner
Also known as a “scratching” or withdrawal - when a horse is withdrawn from a race for which it had been entered. Objection
After a race, the rider of a beaten horse can claim a foul by the winner or another horse in the race. This objection is then heard by the stewards. An objection can also come from racing officials, such as the clerk of scales if a rider fails to weigh in or has carried the wrong weight. “Off the Pace “
When a horse is running towards the back of the field of runners in a race. Offside
Right-hand side of a horse. “On the Bit/Off the Bit”
On the bit means when a horse is travelling well (i.e. the bit is still tight in its mouth), whereas if a horse if off the bit it is having to be ridden to maintain its position. It can also be referred to as on or off the bridle. ”Over the Top”
A horse past its peak for the season. Overweight
When a jockey is too heavy to ride at the horse's allotted weight they may put up overweight. This is limited to 1kg in the UAE. Pace
The speed at which a race is run. Up with the pace means close to the leaders, off the pace means some way behind. Paddock
The area of a racecourse where horses are paraded before each race. Can also be called the parade ring. In the UAE, horses parade anti-clockwise. Paddock
The area of a racecourse where horses are paraded before each race. Can also be called the parade ring. In the UAE, horses parade anti-clockwise. Passport
An official document issued by the Stud Book Authority of the country in which the horse is born. A horse's passport gives its details including markings and is used to confirm identity. It must accompany the horse to the races. Penalty
Additional weight carried by a horse on account of previous wins. In a handicap, penalties are added to the allotted weight of a horse if it has won since the weights for the race were published. Place
A horse is generally said to be “placed” if it finishes first, second or third and sometimes fourth in a race. Pole
A marker pole to denote distance around a racetrack. They are usually placed at every 200m. Prize/Purse Money
Money which horses race for. Prohibited Substance
Each racing authority around the world sets strict guidelines as to medications that may be in a horse’s system when it races. A zero tolerance approach is taken in many countries, including the UAE. Severe penalties are imposed should a horse be found to have raced with any prohibited substance in its system. Pull Up
To bring to a halt a horse during or after a race or training session. Quarantine
A process whereby horses going to other countries have to spend a certain period in isolation, either before or after arrival or both, to ensure that they are free from disease. This is enforced for all horses that fly to or from the UAE from overseas to compete in races. Relegation
When the finishing order of a race is changed by the stewards because of interference or other rule infraction. Reserve
A horse selected as a standby runner in a race, in case an entry drops out. ”Ridden Out”
When a horse is asked for the effort to win a race.. ”Run Back”
A term used to describe a horse that runs in one race and then “runs back” or “backs up” by running in another race a few days later. “Run Free”
A horse going too fast and being too eager early on in a race. Also known as pulling or being rank. Runner
A horse taking part in a race. Scope (1)
A horse is said to have scope if it is likely to improve with age and as it grows and matures. Scope or Endoscope (2)
The piece of medical diagnostic equipment that veterinarians use to visualise the airway of a horse. A “dirty scope” describes a horse with an airway infection. Scratching
See Non-Runner Sectional Timing
Several racetracks around the world including Nad Al Sheba have an electronic sectional timing system, where the time of the each horse is taken at every furlong marker to give an indication of the speed of the race. Each horse carries a small transponder in its saddle cloth which is picked up by sensors at each furlong pole to produce the individual sectional time for each horse. The time of the leading horse will usually appear on television screens around the course during and after the race. Sex Allowance (Gender Allowance)
In many races fillies and mares are able to carry less weight than their male counterparts, the allowance in kilos will vary depending on the race conditions. Sire
The father of a horse. Socks
White markings on a horse which go from the top of the hoof to the fetlock. “Spread a Plate “
When a racing horseshoe, also known as a plate, comes off, sometimes causing delay as the horse is re-shod. Sprint
A race run over a short distance, usually less than 1400m. Stakes Race
The most important races contested by the best horses, principally Group and Listed races. Starters List
The list, put together by the starter and stewards, of horses that require special attention at the start (such as being blindfolded or loaded last into the starting stalls) or who have given problems at the start in the past. Stayers
Horses who have a lot of stamina and are more likely to show up best over races of 2400m and further. Stiff Track
A track that requires a lot of stamina, such as one with a long home straight or an uphill finish, such as Jebel Ali. Stud Book
The book that lists and registers every thoroughbred horse that is born. Every major racing nation has their own stud book that is co-ordinated with the stud book of all other racing nations. Suffix
The letters in brackets after a horse’s name that indicate which country the horse was born in (i.e. Roses In May (USA), means that the horse was born in the USA). Suspension
Punishment for breaking the rules imposed by stewards on jockeys, but also applicable to trainers, owners and horses. Suspensions can be as short as one day, up to years in very serious cases. Swab
Any kind of sample taken from a horse before or after a race for the purpose of detecting prohibited substances. Testing or Sampling Unit
The barn located in a secure area at every racetrack where forensic samples are taken from horses at the request of the stewards often referred as a Swab Box. The sampling procedure is supervised by the racetrack veterinarian. Tying Up
Tying up syndrome is a preferable name to exertional rhabdomyolysis because not all horses that tie up have exercised. Tied up horses develop pain and stiffness in the lower back, gluteals and muscles of the thigh region. The problem can vary from a transient cramping to a serious problem where muscle destruction occurs. Tight Track
Generally a narrow track with tight turns that suits smaller, nippier horses. Turf
Type of track surface, made up of grass. Vaccinations
Every horse must have up-to-date vaccinations before it will be allowed to run. Different jurisdictions may require horses to have different vaccinations, for example, all horses must have an equine influenza vaccination before they are allowed to run in the UAE. Veterinary Withdrawal Certificate
A certificate issued by the attending clinical veterinarian, forwarded to the stewards stating that a medical reason will prevent a horse from being able to compete in a race. Veterinary Certificate / Clearance (requirement for…)
A regulatory imposition placed upon a horse by the stewards, whereby a veterinary medical clearance must be issued before a horse can enter to race again. Weighing Room
Area where jockeys are weighed both before and after a race by the clerk of the scales. Weigh In/Out
Weighing the jockey before and after the race to make sure the horse carried the right weight. The ‘weighed in’ announcement means the result is official. Weight
The load carried by a horse during a race. Weight consists primarily of the jockey and his tack. If this does not provide enough to equal the weight allocated to the horse by the handicapper, pieces of lead are added to the weight cloth/lead bag. Weight For Age
Fixed scale of weights carried by horses in races according to their age, sex, time of year and the distance to be run. Winner's Enclosure
The area where the winner and often the placed horses come to have their saddles removed after a race. Also known as the unsaddling enclosure. Work
General term for horses exercising.
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Guide.
Jul 25, 2014 19:58:59 GMT
Post by Kimmy on Jul 25, 2014 19:58:59 GMT
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Guide.
Aug 18, 2014 19:00:47 GMT
Post by Kimmy on Aug 18, 2014 19:00:47 GMT
What is Rule 4?
Newcomers to betting on horse racing do get confused by Rule 4. We have tried to explain it as clearly as possible.
Rule 4 is an industry-standard deduction that is made on a horse or dog when there is a non-runner in a race after the final declarations for that race have been made and you have taken a fixed odds price.
For example, if you have £10 win on a horse and take 5/1 (6.0 in decimal odds) and the 2/1 (3.0) favourite then becomes a non-runner, your 5/1 (6.0) is looking very generous.
On markets on the day of a race anyone who backs a non-runner will get their stakes refunded. Those people who backed the 2/1 shot will have their money refunded and therefore Rule 4 exists to make a deduction from your bet on the 5/1 shot. This is because if the 2/1 favourite had not been in the betting for the race when you placed your bet your 5/1 shot may have been, say 3/1.
Rule 4 deductions only occur AFTER the final declarations for a race are made. This is when non-runners mean you get your stake back. Usually, but not always, the final declaration stage is 24 hours before the race. It can be 48 hours before a race.
Rule 4 does not apply to any ante-post market. Ante-post or futures markets are betting on a horse race before the final declarations are known. If you back a non-runner in an ante-post market then you do not get your money back so obviously no Rule 4 is applied to the people who are holding bets on horses that benefit from this non-runner.
The official Tattersalls Rule 4 deductions, as applied by all UK bookies, are as follows:
a) If the current odds of the non-runner are 1/9 or shorter at the time the non-runner withdraws from the race, then 90p in £/E/$ is deducted (or 90% of winnings) b) If over 2/11 up to and including 2/17, 85% of winnings deducted c) If over 1/4 up to and including 1/5, 80% of winnings deducted d) If over 3/10 up to & including 2/5, 70% of winnings deducted e) If over 2/5 up to and including 8/15, 65% of winnings deducted f) If over 8/15 up to and including 8/13, 60% of winnings deducted g) If over 8/13 up to and including 4/5, 55% of winnings deducted h) If over 4/5 up to and including 20/21, 50% of winnings deducted i) If over 20/21 up to and including 6/5, 45% of winnings deducted j) If over 6/5 up to and including 6/4, 40% of winnings deducted k) If over 6/4 up to and including 7/4, 35% of winnings deducted l) If over 7/4 up to and including 9/4, 30% of winnings deducted m) If over 9/4 up to and including 3/1, 25% of winnings deducted n) If over 3/1 up to and including 4/1, 20% of winnings deducted o) If over 4/1 up to and including 11/2, 15% of winnings deducted p) If over 11/2 up to and including 9/1, 10% of winnings deducted q) If over 9/1 up to and including 14/1, 5% of winnings deducted r) If the non-runner is over 14/1 then there is no deduction
In the event of there being two or more withdrawals in one event, the total deduction shall not exceed 90p in £ (or 90% of the winnings). The Rule 4 deduction is not applied to the winning client’s returned stake, only to their winnings. Can Rule 4 apply to anything other than horse or dog racing?
Yes. This is possible on general sports. Outright markets (defined as after the draw/official field is confirmed for a specific event) may be subject to a deduction equivalent to Tattersalls Rule 4. The Rule 4 will be applied, according to the table of deductions related to Horse Racing.
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