Horse races are events in which horses are guided through a specific distance by jockeys riding them over an enclosed course on a track, typically by jockeys accompanied by spectators on horseback. Each competition tests speed and stamina of both riders as well as their ability to adapt quickly according to race conditions, weather, or any other variables present during each race. Spectators enjoy betting on each race with many offering prize pools exceeding $5,000.00 as prizes to their winners.

Horse racing has long held a special place in the hearts of millions of fans around the globe. From major events such as Royal Ascot and Kentucky Derby to local races across the globe, fans love this traditional yet innovative sport that continues to flourish with more stringent regulations and advances in veterinary care now ensuring horses’ wellbeing and safety.

Horse racing’s rich tradition may be marred by questions surrounding its treatment of racehorses. These majestic creatures, some weighing as much as 2,000 pounds, are trained to run at high speeds over hard-packed dirt tracks while carrying people on their backs – often overextending themselves physically and subjected to cocktails of legal and illegal drugs intended to treat injuries, enhance performance or hide poor health; many eventually succumb and those that survive are often sold into slaughterhouses.

Flat races such as the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Melbourne Cup and Dubai World Cup are held over distances ranging between five and eight furlongs to test both speed and endurance, whereas major jump races such as Champion Stakes and Grand National cover much greater distances.

Before being accepted for racing, horses must meet certain requirements such as being of a certain age, having won previous races for certain amounts, meeting weight/sex/training specifications as well as accompanying an experienced jockey with proven ability in managing animal behaviors during races.

At horse races, stewards or other appointed officials monitor the course and ensure all participants comply with the rules of sport. Stewards also safeguard the spectators’ safety.

Horse races present both physical and financial risks for owners and trainers alike, from injuries sustained during competitions to horses being forced out due to illness or injuries; horses that do not win enough money at auctions may end up at slaughterhouses in Canada, Mexico, Japan or other locations; this results in corruption and fraud among horse race industry participants but remains a multibillion-dollar business that supports thousands of jobs while contributing billions in economic activity via breeding and grazing industries.