Courses and Horses

There are many equestrian courses available these days, from short one-day training courses to full time qualifications that are nationally recognised.

If you have not attended such a course before, or if you have been out of education for a long time, it can be difficult to know what is expected of you.

If attending a day course, your best bet is to ring up the institution at which it will take place and find out what the course entails. If there is any element of practical or yard work, it may be a good idea to wear jodhpurs or breeches and yard boots, or at least pack your riding gear in the car so you have it if necessary. Also, a pad of paper and pens will be essential for taking notes, as well as a highlighter to make important statements stand out. You may also need lunch, but you can check whether food is provided when you ring up, and aim to take a bottle of water and a snack to keep your concentration levels up!

With distance learning courses your riding gear won't be much use to you, although you may be expected to complete vocational tasks of your own accord and submit video evidence. Therefore you will still need access to good quality yard boots, jodhpurs, gloves and a hat as minimum personal protective equipment. In terms of any academic material, you will need to form an appropriate workspace at home where you can concentrate on reading through the course material without being disturbed. Again you will need pens and highlighters to make notes and emphasise points. A computer may also be a useful addition to your workspace in order to complete and store assignments as well as for research.

For full time qualifications, it depends largely on the course you are doing as to whether you will require riding gear or not. Often at degree level, you will only be expected to use riding gear for limited practical sessions, and so you may not need a full outfit including jodhpurs and riding jackets. However you may be expected to own minimum forms of protection for horse handling in educational sessions, such as a hat, gloves and yard boots. Some degree courses do offer riding and practical skills as optional modules. On a vocational course, full riding gear is usually required, as there are assessed riding and practical elements. Then obviously you must have a smart pair of jodhpurs or breeches, long leather riding boots or boots and gaiters, and a tidy riding jacket. A riding hat and gloves go without saying!

Academic equipment required for a full time course is similar to the others, obviously pens, paper and laptop. However you may also require a printer as most of your work will need to be physically handed in. Sorting out access to your institution's library is important, as it will be a vital resource for completing assignments and revision. If you plan to be a residential student, you must also ensure you have access to accommodation, and that you have the means to pay for it. This may entail applying for a student loan.

Your chosen educational establishment will give you much greater detail as to their expectations, but these very basic pointers should give you something to think about in terms of what riding gear and academic equipment you need to have prepared. For a long term commitment, you may find you need to invest in some new riding gear to make sure it is of a correct standard, fit and will last you the length of the course. Hopefully you will turn up prepared to learn and enjoy your course!

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Definitive Guide For Formulated Milk For Foals

If you are looking into strengthening your horse and enhancing their stamina, the trick is to begin early. Special formulated milk substitutes are available for foals particularly those that have been orphaned. Adult horses can sometimes reject their young and proper nourishment would not be delivered to the foal as a result this might even lead to the death of the foal. The need for supplementing the original nourishment can be done with the help of products such as ePro Foal Starter Plus. The milk is filled with energy giving nutrients like protein, fat, vitamins and minerals which complete the nutritional components of the mare's milk. Higher levels of protein are present in ePro?.

Protein contains amino acids that are needed by the tissues of the body to function well. For the horses to grow sturdy, 10 essential amino acids are required. ePro Foal Starter Plus contains all of the ten important amino acids for horse nutrition such as arginine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, threonine, histidine, valine and trypthopan. These amino acids cannot be formed easily in the usual meals of mares and foals, which is why it is necessary to take advantage of the promising effects which the product contains.

The milk substitute also contains antioxidants at adequate levels to sustain normal body growth and functions of the horse. The ePro? Foal Starter Plus is so innovative and promising; it even contains inulin, an organic sugar supplement produced in plants. Inulin is essential to produce enough helpful bacteria in the foal's digestive system to maintain equilibrium in the micro flora that helps lessen the chances for scouring.

Due to the highly digestible components which milk substitute contains, it works fast. It can be absorbed and utilized by the foal after various hours of consumption. Making use of the product would help you save money. It could ensure productivity and most of all the safety and health of growing foals. By utilizing the best products and available tools, the best products could be made.

You could make sure of reducing possible developmental risks later on which could hinder the chances of having champion breeds, by improving the quality of nutrients which your horses would consume.

Make sure to provide the foal fresh water daily and make sure that you provide soft hay at 2 weeks of age. Increase the creep feed gradually as the body weight increases per day.Horse Supplies Online specialise in providing thousands of horse products.

Horse Supplies Online specialise in providing thousands of horse products. They have a great stock of horse tack supplies, horse wormers, horse boots, vet supplies, horse supplements and much more all at fantastically discounted prices. They have a great range of vet products for cats and dogs as well! The company stocks all major brands of horse products. So, check out their great prices, fantastic range and awesome service on all major brands of horse supplies, and find out why http://www.horsesuppliesonline.com.au/ are the fastest growing equine supplies business in Australia.

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Article Submitted On: March 04, 2011

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Snake Bites in Horses

Horses are most commonly bitten by poisonous snakes, such as rattlesnakes, copperheads and coral snakes, in the spring and summer months. Horses at pasture are often bitten on the nose and head. Bites to the head and nose are true medical emergencies. These may cause swelling of the nose and surrounding tissue, making it difficult for the horse to breathe. Bites to the legs are less common and less serious, and usually occur during rides through snake-infested areas. In addition to swelling, the venom causes tissue destruction and blood clotting problems.

If Your Horse is Bitten by a Snake

1. If you see or hear snake when riding, move away from the area.
2. If you think your horse has been bitten, move away from the area, dismount and examine the legs for blood, swelling or puncture marks.
3. Slowly hand walk the horse back to the stable or trailer.
4. Keep the horse calm.

Treatment of Snake Bites

If you are unsure whether your horse was bitten, clip the hair on the legs and examine for dark oozing blood, puncture holes (1 or 2), swelling or discoloration of the wound area. If you find a snake bite after clipping away the hair, apply cold packs to the area. Do not apply ice directly to the skin, as this will freeze the skin and further damage the tissue. You may be initially unable to determine if your horse has been bitten. Observe your horse's legs or muzzle for 1-2 hours for signs of swelling, blood, or discoloration. Medical treatment involves the use of antibiotics to prevent infection at the bite site and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

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Information on the Western Saddle

The Western Saddle or as it's more popularly know as the "Cowboy" saddle is as its name suggests is most often used by cowboys. It is a saddle used by those who spend a lot of time in the saddle. It is designed to provide security & comfort so that the user can travel over long distances and rough terrain in relative ease. The western saddle gets its design from the saddles used by the Spanish vaqueros, the horse trainers and cattle drivers from Mexico and Southeast American regions. The western saddle was designed using the best parts of two other types of saddles namely -the Riding one, the Jousting one (la jenita) which for its comfort also provides very good control of the horse. The Western saddle is also good for beginner riding.

Also additional features are added like "the Horn". The horn allowed cowboys to control the cattle by tying on the neck of the animal and then wrapping the rope to the horn. Other parts of the western saddle include the Gullet, Concho, Latigo keeper, Dee ring, Latigo, Cinch ring, Cinch, Stirrup, Stirrup leather, Fender, Strings, Skirt, Rear Jockey, Jockey, Cantle, Seat and Pommel. In the western saddle there are about seven different sub classes and each is modified a little bit depending upon its task. The sub classes are - Roping, Cutting, Barrel racing, Endurance, Trail, Show and "Equitation" saddle.

The roping saddle is a heavier, sturdier saddle with a thicker horn, low cantle and a slick fork thus allowing the rider to dismount in a hurry if needed.

The Cutting saddle has wide swells and a deep seat allowing the rider to sit deep and to be secure through all abrupt stops and turns.

The Barrel racing saddle is a saddle that is light in weight with a high cantle and wide swells thus providing security to the rider but at the same time allowing the horse to do fast sprints and sharp turns.

The Endurance saddle has specifically been designed for the long rides at high speeds, thus ifs features include a wide and large seat to spread out the weight of the rider and to reduce pounds per square inch. An important feature that makes this saddle different from other saddles is that it has no horn. This saddle is used on long rides at fast speeds.

The Trail: is a comfort saddle designed with a deep well padded, thus being comfortable for the rider as well as the horse. Such a saddle is used long rides with slow speeds.

The Show saddle has a well padded deep seat thus allowing the rider to sit comfortably and give the appearance of a smooth ride. The Show saddle also has additional silver decorations on it.

The "Equitation" saddle is a show saddle with an especially deep seat that keeps the rider in place.

A good quality Western Saddle if properly maintained is built so as to last a persons whole lifetime and beyond.

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Handicapping Tips

Horse handicapping is challenging for any bettor to the races. Even experienced handicappers aren't always correct in their educated guesses. It isn't an exact science, after all. But your odds of winning are much better if you know how to handicap than if you depend on Lady Luck alone. If you're interested to learn, here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Get hold of a racing program. As far as handicapping is concerned, this is your bible. The racing program will give you detailed data about the previous performance of each horse expected to race. Take the time to review the information here well before the race starts and in between races. Look at where the horse placed in its previous race, his finish time, Beyer Speed (the higher the figure is, the faster the horse is supposed to be) and the horse's workouts. In case it rains, you might also find the "Tomlinson Ratings" helpful since this tells you how well an equine performs in muddy conditions.

2. Review the horse's performance in its past few races. If the horse is a consistent winner, that will tell you a lot about its performance in the current race. While you can check on such details as whether a horse will perform well in the turf or in a dirt surface, the simple detail of a horse's past winnings is enough to give you a good idea of its chances.

3. Aside from past winnings, check the kind of workouts the horse is subjected to in the weeks leading up to the race. While the past performance can give you the inherent skill of a horse, the degree of his present workouts indicate his current physical form. A horse who has worked out well before the race is in his best form and often will win over the one who may have a great performance record but is in poor shape.

4. Look for horses dropping down classes because they are a threat to the other horses and that's where you should place your money on. For example, if a horse previously ran in a $100,000 graded stakes but is now running in a $5,000 claimer, then you have a potentially good horse running against lesser equines. Significant class dropdowns include: Maiden Special Weight to cheap Maiden Claiming, Claiming to another Claiming with a significantly lower claiming price, Allowance to Claiming and Graded Stakes to Allowance or Claiming.

5. Check out the jockey and the trainer. While jockeys aren't the ones running, they can certainly direct a horse to take the lead even against narrow passes. And good horse trainers have also established their reputations with winning horses too.

Again, handicapping isn't an exact science. But it definitely ups your chances at the horse races!

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Tack Shops - Should You Shop Online or Should You Visit Your Local Tack Shop?

Horseback riding is an age old tradition shared by many people throughout generations. To ride a horse well it often times requires time and dedication to develop the skill that is necessary to participate well. What often times gets lost in translation is the fact that horseback riding is a very intense sport that requires physical skill, mental preparedness, and most importantly great equipment. Without great equipment it is very hard to compete on a high level. The horseback riding supplies involved vary vastly when considering what type of horseback riding you are participating in as well as what time of year you are participating.

These supplies can be purchased at many different local places but often times the best place to find the required equipment is your local tack shop. This is another name for an equestrian supply store. At these tack shops you are able to purchase many different pieces of equipment and training aids. These products typically include riding apparel, horse care products, boots, stable equipment, horse blanks and sheets. More often than not each tack shop is geared towards a specific type of riding (either English or Western-Style, or saddle seat.)

Many tack shops exist throughout local area's to help facilitate the needs of the participants. Horse and Rider supplies is a great example of a local shop that offers these supplies. Horse and Rider is an English riding style store that is located in the Hudson Valley New York area that carries many of the things required. When looking to find your items make sure you look throughout the area and do competitive research on products online as prices can fluctuate from store to store. Online shops have been providing horse supplies for some time at very good rates. The cons of an online store are you often times do not get the local service and guidance of seasoned veterans who work at local shops. Online retailers are often times for the consumer looking for the best price, and know exactly what they are looking for. If you are looking for guidance and information pertaining which horseback riding products fit your needs it is very important to visit your local tack shop to be helped with your purchase.

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Chemical Reactions Of Proteins

"Yikes! My horse has bright orange pee!" Have you said this after going out to the pasture and seeing spots of bright orange or reddish orange pee spots all over the place? Did you panic and worry what in the world your horse has ingested to have peed such an odd color?

You are not alone. You are not the first - or the last - horse owner who sees this phenomenon and begins to mentally run through a list of all the possibilities. Check out most horse-related forums and you will find some horse owner pleading for help and very concerned about the welfare of their beloved horse.

"Could it be blood in the urine?" they ask. "Do you have black cherry trees in your pasture?" someone will answer back. Many people will assume such discolorations are signs of kidney infections, proof of red blood in urine, some type of poisoning, or even one of the dreaded signs of colic in a horse.

Okay, take a deep breath, and use your observation skills along with discovering some facts. First of all, horse urine contains excreted proteins in high enough amounts to cause oxidation when those proteins are exposed to oxygen. This means that when a horse pees his normal pale yellowish color, it ends up turning a bright orange, or reddish orange after the air oxidizes the proteins. That's why you will see stained bedding in the stall where a horse has peed and those bright spots in the snow. You are witnessing the result of chemical reactions of proteins. Your horse is fine.

Now, on the other hand, if the urine COMING OUT of your horse is discolored, there are some possibilities and concerns you need to be aware of. It could still be nothing to worry about. But don't ever waste time in wonder. Take your horse's vital signs and call your horse vet.

Red clover has been said to cause urine to appear reddish in color. That's because something called, "porphyrins" are excreted into the urine and turn red when exposed to the air. Like oxidation of proteins in horse urine that produce the bright oranges and reddish oranges, it is nothing to be worried about. It is not a serious issue as long as your horse is receiving a well-balanced diet and is not getting excessive amounts of red clover. If you are concerned about how much red clover is in your horse's diet ask your vet.

The time to begin investigating is when the urine is dark - such as a brownish or blackish color AS YOUR HORSE IS URINATING. You may be observing symptoms of kidney issues, (hematuria). It may mean there are liver issues, (bilirubinemia). There may be tying-up issues (myoglobinuria). In these situations remember the urine will be a darker color, either a brownish or blackish color and it will be present when the horse is actually peeing. The harmless chemical reaction of oxidation occurs AFTER the horse has peed and the urine has been exposed to air long enough to change to the bright oranges.

I hope this helps to ease your mind. The way I figure it, anything that educates horse owners - in measures great or small - provides us with more knowledge to ensure a healthy happy horse. Of course it also provides us with a normal heart rate again after seeing freaky orange spots!

Horses are amazing creatures. One can never know too much about them. If you own horses or have always wanted to own a horse, go to Horse of Course and you will find a special place just for "horse folk."

At HorseOfCourse.org you will find everything from tips on riding and training horses to farrier and vet care. There are also free horse games on line and a tack store!

Good luck to you in all your "horse" endeavors.

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The Role of Discipline in Horse Betting

Betting on the race track is not only fun and exciting, it also gives you the chance to win a lot of money. Of course, it also gives you the equal opportunity to lose money. The latter can happen if you don't make discipline a part of your betting.

Traditionally, gamblers (which, in essence, is what you are the moment you start betting the races), relied on Lady Luck to make them win. When Lady Luck smiled on them, winnings came in without effort. The opposite happens when she frowns.

Today, however, most wise bettors have decided to give Lady Luck a hand. You would do well to follow their example. It all starts with discipline.

You might not think that doing homework is part of horse betting, but it actually means the world if you want to win big and avoid huge losses. In much the same manner that you need to discipline yourself to study your lessons in school, wise horse betting entails looking at which stable the horse comes from, its winning percentage, the trainer and the jockey of the horse you want to place your bet on.

Bigger, well-established stables most likely have the funds to hire more experienced trainers and jockeys. Look out for horses that come from there. Get to know the jockeys riding the horses. If they already have a lot of wins under their belt, then chances are they are going to win more. Obviously, horses who have won before are most likely going to win again.

Another source of information that you will also find helpful are the daily picks given by horse racing programs. These programs are usually given in race tracks or online websites. They are also safe horses to put your money on.

Let's move on to the betting itself. How do you put discipline there? When you go out to the race track, always make sure that you have a betting plan and make sure that you stick to it. Determine beforehand how much you're going to bet, the type of bet or bets you are going to place and what your stop loss limit is. Always have a betting strategy with you so that in case things don't go your way, you don't get tempted to start accepting wild bets and losing even more. Also, while playing too many tracks can be potentially lucrative, it also makes you vulnerable to bigger and more expensive losses if your bets take a dive. If you do decide to play multiple tracks, make sure that your bankroll is sufficient to cover any potential losses.

Horse betting isn't an exact science- yet. But with discipline, you can protect yourself from going bankrupt so you can live to bet another day at the races.

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Horse Feeds - The Most Important Factor For Your Pet's Health

Horse feeds can be a topic of tension for a number of owners. Even the process of feeding your horses is a little difficult as this can be recognized as an art. The tension arises with the question whether they are providing enough food for the animal or not. Whether the animal is getting sufficient food or not even if you provide the animal a little more food there is also another kind tension. It is very important to give exact amount of horse feeds to maintain the good health of your animal. You must have an intense look on the food factor for your animal. If your animal is a little over weight then you must cut the amount of food to make it proportionate. If your animal is thin then you should take care of your animal more just to make it a little healthier.

You need to verify the health of your animal first before considering the factors regarding horse feeds. If the spine and ribs are a little prominent then you should be careful about its health. The amount of the given food has to be considered on the basis of the health of your animal. You should also be aware about certain facts about your animal regarding its taste and other things. All animals do not prefer food like just the same. There are variations lie in the taste of each and every animal distinguishing their preferences. You need to do a little study before fixing up the diet chart for the horse.

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Article Submitted On: January 11, 2011

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The Importance of Measuring Your Horse for a New Saddle

Buying a new saddle is an big decision. For riders, the saddle is an essential piece of equipment that should last for many years, but incorrectly fitted horse back riding saddles can cause many problems for horse and rider as well as decrease the longevity of the saddle.

Consider a pair of running shoes for an athlete. If their shoes don't fit correctly, rubbing or pinching the feet, or moving around because they are too big, then you would expect this to affect their ability to perform. In the same way, the saddle that we put on a horse's back should fit perfectly.

If you are buying a new horse riding saddle from a saddler then you would expect them to visit your horse and take some measurements of your horse's back to ensure that the saddle supplied is a perfect fit for your horse, however, there are many other places that you can purchase saddles from. There are many websites supplying quality equestrian products and the benefits of the internet allow you to shop around for the best deals easily and at your convenience. If you are considering ordering your saddle online though, it is important that you have accurate measurements of the size and width of horse back riding saddle that you require to avoid having to return the new saddle after it arrives. These measurements can be taken either from an existing saddle that fits the horse well or from the horse directly.

The size of the new horse riding saddle required depends on two factors; the size of the rider and the length of the horse's back. The size is measured on the saddle from the button on the side of the pommel to the middle of the cantle. The saddle should never extend beyond the 18th thoracic vertebrae which is the region of the last rib. If the saddle sits on the lumbar region then this can cause pain and movement problems for your horse. It is also essential that the new saddle is the correct size for the rider. Too small and the rider will be unable to sit down correctly in the saddle, too big and they may find it difficult to sit up straight in the saddle

The width is most important for the horse, and there are many problems that can be caused by a saddle too narrow or too wide. These can range from pain caused by pinching or bruising to muscle and nerve damage from uneven pressure from the saddle and rider. This is the reason why you must know the correct width measurement required for your new horse back riding saddle. This simple task done before buying a new horse riding saddle can save you a lot of time, money and distress later on and is in the end much better for the horse. So before you order your new horse back riding saddle, ensure that you have some accurate measurements of the saddle that you need.

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Buying a Custom Halter

You can't lead your horse without a halter. It's common sense. With that in mind, it's always a good idea to own more than one halter. That way if one breaks, you won't have to wait until you get a new one to ride your horse. And since you're going to need multiple halters, why not make at least one of them a fancy custom halter?

While you might think a custom halter would be merely for show, this isn't the case. They work just as well as the standard halter you are currently using. The only difference is that custom halters will look much better on your horse. Well, that and perhaps they're made out of higher quality materials than your original one too.

When you're searching for custom halters for your horse, there are a few things you should consider. First of all, what sort of custom halter are you wanting? Are you looking for a certain color or design? Perhaps a red horse halter or a black halter? How about your horse's name emblazoned on it? If you have a good idea of what you want before you set out, your search will prove easier.

Don't skimp on quality when searching for a custom halter. Some sites you might order from will offer cheaper, low-quality horse halters. But that's not what you need. You need a halter with high quality metal parts. You want to make sure that the buckles and rings will stand up to all the wear and tear of normal everyday use. Solid brass is your best option due to its proven durability.

You'll also want to go for a halter with extra stitching. A halter with single stitching is a halter that will surely fail on you. You want double or even triple stitching. Let's face it, having high quality metal parts won't do you much good if the stitching is weak and they rip right off the halter!

As with all products you buy, look for a solid guarantee. Even if you purchase the highest quality custom halter on the market, there's still always a chance something could go wrong. Manufacturer defects are uncommon, but they can occur. So the company you purchase from should stand behind their products. Meaning, if you aren't happy with what you ordered, they'll fix the issue for you without a hassle.

And you can't talk about choosing a custom halter without touching on pricing. When shopping for products online, you should always check for competitive pricing. With so many vendors out there on the Web, you'll likely find prices all over the board. So do your homework and make sure you aren't paying outrageously for something you can get elsewhere at a fair price.

Finally, in some cases you might be searching for a custom halter for the purpose of custom sizing. Perhaps your horse is harder to fit than usual. In this case, a custom halter provider may be exactly what you need. Just make sure you know your measurements and check to see that the supplier you choose can comply. If not, try giving them a call and ask if they can help you out.

Buying a custom halter can make your horse look like a star. Keep the above things in mind as you start your search to buy the perfect halter.

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Of Thoroughbreds and Racing

When we speak of horse racing, the horse that comes to mind is the Thoroughbred. What exactly is the Thoroughbred and why is it synonymous with horse racing? Get to know this horse in this article.

Bred primarily for their speed, Thoroughbreds are race horses at heart. They are not only that, however. They are used in show jumping, dressage and other riding disciplines as well. While the tern "thoroughbred" is used interchangeably to refer to any "purebred" horse, the Thoroughbred (with the capital T) is actually a distinct breed that traces its roots to three foundation stallions: the Byerley Turk, the Darley Arabian and the Godolphin Arabian. These were imported into England from the Middle East sometime in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. When bred to the local stock, these horses produced offspring that were strong and speedy.

The usual Thoroughbred stands from 15 to 17 hands or 62 to 68 inches. They come in various colors, from those as rare as white to those as common as chestnut, black and seal brown. Breeders usually look for horses with a well-chiseled head that stands on a long neck and high withers (highest part of the back at the base of the neck). They also have fine hair, long sloping shoulders, lean muscle and a big chest for their powerful lungs and heart.

While they can have racy and nervous temperaments, their bold and spirited nature makes them good race horses. Their athleticism, speed and character make enable them to give their all in any race, thus making them more prone to death due to accidents in the race track. Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPC) or bleeding in the lungs due to intense exercise is common in as many as 70% of race horses.

Some of the racehorses who have made a name for themselves in the track include Man O'War, Secretariat and Whirlaway. Because of the high-spiritedness of the Thoroughbred, they are not the usual choice for beginners. But for those who have been on the mount for a long time, their smooth and powerful gaits make for one hell of a ride.

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Horse Betting Tips 101

Gambling has always been a part of the human psyche. An unexplainable thrill is derived from putting your money on something as you wait for the results. Betting on the race track is no exception. The amount of your bet (a standard bet in most tracks is $2) is secondary to the adrenalin rush you feel as you watch the horse where you place your bet on make it to the finish line.... or lag behind.

While betting may not always go your way, you can make every wagering experience on the race track a pleasant experience regardless of the outcome. Here are some tips:

1. Learn the basics. Know the game and the types of bets available. If you're new to horse racing, make sure you understand the terminology and procedures on how to go about betting.
2. Note the selections and tips offered by newspaper handicappers and the commentators of the race track's in-house television. Get hold of an official track program where you can see the percentages of wins and jockey standings. A winning rate of 15% and above is good enough for jockeys and trainers.
3. When the day has taken a downturn, stop betting. Whether you believe or not in Lady Luck frowning on you that day, this is the best thing to do so you can cut any further losses.
4. When you are having a particularly good streak, increase your bets. However, when you have already stocked up a lot of wins early, lock up a portion of it and don't be tempted to dig in to it when you start losing.
5. If you're still learning the ropes on the track, place your bets with the regular tellers who can point out any costly mistakes you might have overlooked. You can try the new sophisticated machines later when you're more familiar with the whole process

Horse betting can be a pleasurable pastime so this piece will end on what is perhaps the most important tip that would serve any newbie well: Let the money you bet for the race track be the money for the race track. Don't dip in to family finances for food or rent or bills. That's always the code for the wise bettor, and he will be the one who will continue to enjoy the races for a long time to come.

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Can Jockeys Win a Race?

The question on the role of jockeys in leading a horse to win in the race track has been asked many times before. Answers have generally come from both ends of the spectrum. Some are of the opinion that jockeys are mainly there to "drive" the horse while others say that they are instrumental to enabling a horse to take home the trophy.

Based on what we know of the characteristics of winning jockeys, the answer to this question is this: Yes, jockeys can win a race. But they need a good horse to do it. To understand this further, let's look at the role of jockeys.

Jockeys do not merely ride a horse, they direct it. To do this successfully, they study the temperament and style of the horse. If the horse he is riding on is a "stalker" the jockey must lead the horse and know the right time to push it ahead of the competition. If he's riding a "closer" the jockey needs to have the ability to steer the horse in between other horses without risking an injury. Jockeys who ride "speed" horses, meanwhile, will have to direct their equines so that it leads out front the whole time.

Aside from studying the temperament of the horse, good jockeys also study the competition and determine the number and kinds of horses that will be fielded in a particular race. For example, if there will be two "speed" horses in a particular competition and he will be riding a horse that's a "closer" then he will have to plan and strategize accordingly. Strategizing for the jockey also involves getting to know the race track, the favorable spots in the track (whether inside or outside) to take and whether a track has a reputation for favoring speed horses or come-from-behind victories.

However, an excellent rider cannot do much with a horse that just isn't wired to win. No matter how much a jockey directs a horse, if the horse just does not want to go where the jockey takes him, then no amount of prodding will do. Great jockeys have an innate talent for "talking" with their mounts, but they can't do much if the horse stubbornly refuses to listen.

So the next time you bet, read up on the number of wins a particular jockey has. But don't get too caught up in the rider that you forget the "wheels" that takes the jockey to the finish line. Your bet hinges on the horse as well.

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Things to Do Before Betting at the Racetracks

Okay, in all probability, you're not a professional gambler. But if you do visit the race tracks regularly, and want to get serious money from your wagers, it's about time for you to get serious about your betting strategy. It's time to stop deciding on who to bet your money on right on the race track itself and start making it a regular part of your day. This means, you devote at least thirty minutes to an hour studying your options.

Always have a copy of any newspaper that covers everything you need to know about horse racing. Or you can go online for websites that are all about the races. Browse it for information regarding upcoming races and horse racing or betting features. Get to know the horses, jockeys, trainers and owners before looking at which horse to bet for.

In narrowing down your options, decide on the race that you will be focusing on. Try to leave out handicap races as it's always going to be difficult to predict who will win here. Also, don't bother betting on the lowest grade races as well as those where apprentice and amateurs are the ones riding the horse. That leaves you to focus on perhaps three races or so.

In deciding who to bet on in a particular race, eliminate horses that have never been raced on a particular track. For example, if a horse has traditionally been used to racing on turf but is now placed on dirt, chances are, it's not going to perform well. Also, if the equine has never tried running a longer distance, then don't include it among your bets. If it has also moved up in class for the first time, don't expect too much of it as well. Racing comments are also helpful to guide you in your decisions.

It stands to reason that you stand to win more if you back only one horse in a particular race. However, if you can't decide between two or three potential winners, then just cover your bases and bet on all three. You might not win big, but you'll definitely not lose your wagers.

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Should I Use a Dressage Saddle?

Whether you are a novice or experienced horse rider, the large amount of horse riding equipment on the market can be confusing at the best of times! With saddles in particular, there are so many types available it can be be a headache trying to choose the right one. The most commonly used horse back riding saddles are general purpose saddles. As the name implies, these are used for all ages and abilities of horse and rider and are suitable for many different equatrian activities.

So if the general purpose saddle is good for everything, then why is there a need for specialist saddles? Well the answer to this is in the question! Specialist horse back riding saddles are exactly what the description states - specialist. They are designed to suit a particular discipline and a particular style of riding with properties that better enable horse and rider to perform. The general purpose saddle is a compromise between many different specialist horse back riding saddles but in the process this means that at advanced levels of riding and competition the general purpose saddle ceases to fulfil all of the requirements of horse and rider. Take for example the dressage saddle. It is a specific style of horse back riding saddle used, as the name suggests, for riding horses on the flat and in particular for riding dressage movements. It has a number of features that make it distinguishable but also a number of properties that make it completely unsuitable for other disciplines, for example, show jumping. However, if you are a serious dressage rider then a dressage saddle can be of great benefit.

The design of the dressage saddle enables the rider to sit deeper with their legs longer. This position of the rider in turn helps the horse to remain balanced and carry himself correctly. The seat is deeper than a general purpose saddle, with a higher pommel and cantle and usually wider panels to the underside of the saddle with less padding. This not only encourages a deeper seat from the rider but also enables closer contact and a more even weight distribution, this in turn allows the rider to give more accurate aids to the horse.

The position of the rider in dressage requires a longer leg that hangs directly underneath the hips of the rider. To facilitate this, dressage saddles have long, straight cut saddle flaps and stirrup bars positioned slightly further back to encourage the rider to keep the knee down and the thigh back. The straight cut design also allows the horse plenty of freedom around the shoulders.

Another feature of dressage saddles are long billet straps with a shorter girth which buckle around the elbow of the horse, this keeps the buckles out of the way of the rider's leg allowing for the rider to keep a close contact with the horse and give effective leg aids.

Although useful, a dressage saddle is not a necessity for many riders who happily ride and compete in dressage for all of their life in a general purpose saddle. Generally speaking, a dressage saddle is only necessary for those riders where dressage is their main discipline and are riding at more advanced levels. If you often ride and compete in other equestrian disciplines such as show jumping or hunting then it may not be worth investing in a dressage saddle. Consider the fact that you may then end up with two or three different saddles for your horse which also means two or three times more tack to clean! This being said, if you are serious about concentrating solely on improving your dressage and moving on to more advanced competition, then then the purchase of a quality dressage saddle may be a worthwhile investment.

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Issues on the Use of Lasix and Bute in Racehorses

It has been a well-known fact that many horses who race today are put under Lasix or Butazolidin, more commonly known as "Bute." These medications are legal in all races in the US and may even be injected into the horse on race day itself.

Lasix is actually the trade name of Furosemide, a diuretic that causes fluids stored in the horse's system to be released through the urine. Bute, meanwhile, is an anti-inflammatory drug that is commonly used to treat a sick or injured horse.

In case you don't know why these medications got their way into the horse's bloodstreams, the simple reason is EIPH. Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage or bleeding of the tiny blood vessels in the lungs due to overexertion is a problem encountered by most thoroughbreds that race strenuously. When a horse bleeds in, it will have difficulty breathing, hence, difficulty running as well. This is a lifelong problem necessitating medication in most racehorses.

Lasix works by lowering the horse's blood pressure, especially in the aorta and pulmonary artery through the release of fluids in its urine. This lowers blood pressure in the capillaries and lessens EIPH.

The debate rages when horses are placed under Lasix because experts contend that it's a performance-enhancing drug that has a similar effect to the steroids some human athletes inject themselves with. Moreover, it also gives them a weight advantage since the volume of fluid lost due to the medication can make the horse lose as much as 20 pounds.

Bute, meanwhile, is simply a pain and fever medication for injured horses. There hasn't been any proof that it enhances a horse's performance in any way. However, the welfare of racehorses comes to mind when an unscrupulous trainer would use Bute on an injured horse so it could race instead of letting it rest.

There is no question as to the legal aspect of using these medications in race horses. However, it carries with it various moral, ethical and yes, even wagering considerations. It's really up to the owner, trainer and bettor to understand its implications on the track.

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The Horse Gourmet: A Two-Part Story

One of the joys of rural living is working from a home office where with a few clicks on your keyboard you can instantly be connected to nearly anyone on Planet Earth who has a decent internet connection. It does get a little lonely, at times though. It's not like anyone is likely to ask you out to lunch and the nearest Starbucks is a mere 100 miles away!

So you make friends with the furry people who surround your home.

For us, in northwestern Montana, that meant four Walker Hound dogs, a mutt named Toby and a horse called Fire rounded out our 4-legged children who had arrived to fill our empty nest. In those days we never bought or shopped for animals... people would just drop them off at our house or give them to us.

Working from my home office I would type away on my computer right in front of a window that looked into our horse pen. Our thoroughbred quarterhorse had his morning routine, which included munching grass in front of my window with occasional glances in my direction.

Sometimes he would wave his big brown head right into my window screen, and it was not uncommon for him to knock on the door with his hooves!

Fire could be distracting, but in a peaceful stress-relieving way. I was never at a loss for smiles and giggles when Fire was close by, even if it was true he loved me for the food I gave him (I think). It always amazes me how a horse can delicately find the most scrumptious blades of grass while discarding the yucky stuff. Their lips are almost as dexterous as a human's fingers!

Part 2: Do Horses Talk?

Noon was lunchtime and my favorite place to eat was on our front deck. Taking my sandwich outdoors, I would sneak in a few carrots and saltines for Fire, who always knew he was our favorite. It was not acceptable for me to be late for my lunch appointments, and if Fire's internal alarm clock fired off before I hit the porch, he would beat me to the door and knock on the steps with his large hooves, shod with heavy metal shoes!

Well, I wasn't late for lunch on this fine summer day... no. I was late for dinner!

At 5 o'clock sharp Fire understood the routine. I was supposed to be outdoors, on the dot, filling dog bowls with Ole Roy high protein pellets and hosing water into their drinking pans. I must have had too many phone calls that day, because I was late for a very important date!

Fire, who had the run of our riverfront property in the mountains where there no neighbors and barely any traffic, decided to take matters into his own hooves! He knew the dogs must be fed first, and no one was taking care of business! Mischievously, he trotted over to the hound dogs, grabbed hold of the lid on the Rubbermaid dog food container, pulled it open and knocked it over. Using his big head, he rolled the food bin over to the dogs and allowed them to gorge on 25 pounds of food!

Next, Fire calmly walked over to his own food shed where I normally scooped out generous servings of alfalfa grain, corn, and oats. Waiting next to his shed, Fire simply trusted that now the dogs were taken care of, it was going to be his turn! And so it was.... losing 25-pounds of dog food was worth the trouble as my husband and I laughed until we cried. Laughter is a great source of healing and stress-relief! And this was a story that we have retold dozens of times, and we always get a good chuckle!

I don't remember ever being late for dinner after that!

My husband is a "horse whisperer" and having been around Fire long enough, I'm beginning to communicate with horses now, too. We've since grown from a one-horse family to managing a ranch with dozens of horses. But I'll never forget the day Fire put young Toby in his place.

You see, to Fire, a yard is more than grass... it's his salad!

Fire never once lifted his tail in our yard... he had plenty of trees in the woods surrounding our property to use for his latrine. The grass was "sacred space" to Fire and not even a wild turkey was allowed to touch the ground. Fire was more like a 1200-pound watch dog.... a pit bull, is more like it. All deer, elk, and turkeys had better mind their manners!

That's kind of handy when you live in the wilderness where lions, bears, moose, and other large beasts roam. But Fire was more interested in protecting his land from the 4-legged's who considered grass to be their pooping grounds. One day Toby was released to run off some energy and made the biggest mistake of his life. No sooner had he finished squatting than Fire galloped and met the pup head on. Nose to the ground, Fire herded a very humble mutt to his dog house. Toby bowed his head and plopped down in the safety of his dog house.

But that was not enough for Fire.... no, uh huh.

Turning his back to Toby, Fire backed up and lifted his tail and plopped the biggest, greenest, mushiest present all over the door of the dog house and directly on Toby's doorstep! Trotting away, as nonchalantly as ever, Fire returned to munching grass.... I'm sure he never realized we were watching the whole episode right from the living room window! Hilarious!

Now, really, you wonder what people do who live way back in the hinterlands of Montana with no T.V.?

There are stories everywhere we look, if we take time to notice the little details of creation all around us. If we pause to listen and to watch, the world is full of humor and adventure. And if you listen very carefully, you will not mistake the thoughts of a horse gourmet... English is not needed when you can communicate heart-to-heart.

I hope this story inspires you to share your own pet stories. Please share your story with us... it builds community and brings us all into a whole new level of joy. Stories bond people and build community. We can work together to help all of us share our stories so the next generation can feel connected to us, even if it's 100 years or even 1000 years from today.

Who is your all-time favorite pet? What stories do you recall? Have you ever learned a lesson through an animal? Please do share!

For more information and resources to help you start on the journey to writing your life story visit http://susanmckenzie.org/. This website was designed to help you preserve the golden nuggets of your valuable life experiences and to craft your stories into a gorgeous full-color Life Story Book that will certainly become a valuable family heirloom to be shared with the next generation... a living family legacy.

Susan D McKenzie is passionate about families - constantly learning and seeking ways to help heal the heart of the family. She writes articles, memoirs, personal essays and loves to mentor people of all ages in the art of storytelling.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_D_McKenzie

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Choosing The Right Stall Flooring

Whenever a person builds a horse stall, they need to think about what they are going to use for stall flooring. There are a number of options to consider when making such a decision. This is an important decision since the horse will live within those precincts. This means that the material used for the floor should be comfortable, for the horse to comfortably live in.

In addition, the floor should have traction that supports the horse whenever it wants to lie down or get up. The material should also be hygienic. This means that it should have the capacity to drain any biological wastes that the horse excretes.

The floor is usually made of three layers. The layers includes the beddings, another layer at the middle and the base is at the bottom. The layer that is usually found at the very bottom is the base. It is important for the base to have a combination of porous and non porous components.

The non-porous area will make it possible for the floor to retain certain substances while the porous section will cater to the drainage of unwanted substances. A well drained stall is free of any odours and it also ensures that the horse stays dry and in good health.

Once the base has been determined, then the next decision to be made is what type of intermediate layer to use. This layer is mostly placed in between the bedding and the base section of the precincts. This layer is mostly made from shock absorbers like flexible plastic polymers. Sometimes, horse owners find it easier to use plastic for the same purpose.

The horse finds it easier to move about in a place which has a middle layer. It also offers comfort for the horse when it is forced to stand for long durations. The intermediary layer is also used to protect the base from the effects of time. The base is also able to maintain a stable surface despite the use of the porous material.

Horses prefer to sleep lying down. This means that the bedding used should be hygienic and comfortable for the animal. If the wrong bedding is used, a horse can develop painful sores. The bedding used should have the right amount of traction for the horse. It should also offer them cushioning as well as getting rid of any moisture produced.

Stall flooring can include a number of beddings for the horse. The most widely used materials are sawdust, shavings and straw. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons that need to be taken into consideration when making a decision. As much as straw is cheap to acquire, it does not offer any traction once it's wet. When it is dry, straw is also very flammable. Shavings are very good for the beddings but they are not easy to dispose since they are known to be very bulky. Make sure that the material used can soak up excess moisture. It should also be easy to dispose but most importantly it should not trigger any allergic reactions for the horse. Of course, the pricing of the bedding should be within a person's budget since the beddings are replaced often.

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EIPH: Every Racehorse's Concern

EIPH or Exercise Induced-Pulmonary Hemorrhage is a common concern among horses who work out at high intensities. It is no surprise that 80% of thoroughbreds suffer from EIPH. The stress of horse racing causes the blood vessels in the lungs to rupture leading blood to pass into the airways. This happens because the walls of the blood vessels in the lung are thin and weak and cannot take twice the amount of blood pressure that accompanies any intense physical activity. The pressure is greatest in the upper lung and hence bleeding almost always occurs here. The force that impacts this area as the horse lands on its forelegs also adds to the pressure.

In a study in Australia done by Kenneth Hinchcliff of the Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Ohio State University, it was found that racehorses who suffered from serious forms of EIPH finished 4.36 meters behind the winner. This is actually the first scientific study that directly linked EIPH to the poor performance of a horse at the races.

EIPH, being a progressive disease, worsens with rigorous training and as the horse ages, regardless of gender. The overall performance of a horse is significantly compromised as more and more tissues in the lungs are inflamed resulting to the formation of scar tissues. As scar tissues build up, the ability of the lung to ventilate is decreased. As a result, less oxygen becomes available in the bloodstream.

During exercises when the horse is in need of more oxygen, the scarred lung cannot anymore provide as much oxygen and as such horses become exercise intolerant. During a strenuous exercise where the scarred lung meets the healthy lung, an extra tension occurs in the area making it susceptible to hemorrhage.

This has huge implications for the horse racing industry. Even if thoroughbreds in the U.S. are given Lasix, a diuretic that increases water loss to decrease blood volume and pressure, EIPH is still difficult to control overall since no medication has really been developed specifically to treat it. When a horse is only suffering from mild forms of EIPH, his chances of winning a race increases four times compared to one who is suffering the ailment in its advanced stages.

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Horse Joint Supplements: Helping Your Equines Live A Healthy Life

Joint supplements are ideal for horses suffering from arthritis, equines dealing with a physical injury or race horses who have no sign of injuries yet put loads of tension to the joint parts due to the job they do. Then again, so many people are perplexed in terms of which supplementation can be used best for their particular condition or animal. Hence, just what are the ideal joint supplements for ponies? An equine owner consider just a few different types of oral supplements to aid recover or protect their horse. There are 2 main sorts of oral dietary supplements for aiding in osteo-arthritis for equines. These supplements are called chondroprotectants. Glucosamine is but one. The other is chondroitin sulfate. There are a lot remedies and acronyms, it's no surprise you may be mixed up.

In the event that you're familiar in anyway with supplements for horses, it is likely that you've encountered Glucosamine. The main additive in joint items over the past number of years, Glucosamine hails from "chitin" - which in turn has been derived from mainly from shrimp and crab shells. Glucosamine helps keep joints and cartilage oiled, along with arousing the materials important for the organization of joint tissue, known as glycosaminoglycans, crucial structural parts in cartilage material that line the bones.

This will be relevant because as a horse's body ages or is afflicted by penalizing riding procedures, may possibly not make a satisfactory quantity of Glucosamine. This will end in cartilage that loses its capacity to turn into a shock absorber in the important joints. The joints then become stiff and painful, resulting in a limited range of flexibility and perhaps deformation. Glucosamine is one among the widely searched of the many "nutraceutical" ingredients. Absorption and effectiveness research indicates that it is strong when managed by mouth to race horses.

In the event you use oral joint supplement goods to help treat or stop arthritis issues in your equine? Currently, there's really no clear reply to that query. Analysis does frequently indicate that chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine have some promising anti-inflammatory and joint protective consequences, particularly if used at the outset of the treating of arthritis. There's no question the fact that the vitamin supplements are not in a position to hurt your horse (your pocketbook is the one other matter). There's also no question many people (like your vet) recommend them. However, there is also no evidence up to now that they're consistently useful in relieving irritation or encouraging cartilage maintenance in horses or in every other species. Nevertheless, oral joint supplements are almost certain never to be employed in horses with advanced osteoarthritis, since these race horses may possibly not have much cartilage left to regenerate. Further muddying the waters is always that there aren't any doses of such products that have been established.

Horse joint supplements work. What is heartening is we eventually have any formal studies in race horses that back this case up. Horse joint supplements that were available on the market for some time are usually reasonably effective. On the other hand, the most beneficial strategy is to begin with reading labels to assure the merchandise you are looking at includes appropriate ingredients in the correct amounts.

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Importance of Equine Biomechanics in Thoroughbreds

If you think one Thoroughbred is the same as the next, think again. The latest technology involving the use of digital video and computer modeling programs in an evolving science known as equine biomechanics will certainly prove you wrong. Defined as the study of biomechanics as it applies to horses, equine biomechanics analyzes the physical structure, conformation and gait of a particular horse to determine its weaknesses and strengths. This becomes a subject that holds much interest especially when applied to race horses such as Thoroughbreds.

Horse racing Thoroughbreds has always been a sport that depends on the speed of a horse. What makes a horse run faster than another? Surely, the answer must lie in the physique of the horse itself. True, a horse's pedigree gives a clue, but it has never been an exact science. With equine biomechanics, the performance of a Thoroughbred is assessed by looking at their biological fuel and mechanical systems.

Because subtle differences in motion and gait are impossible to see with the naked eye, horse specialists who devote their time in the study of equine biomechanics, make use of high speed video to film thoroughbred horses at racing speeds. This enables them to see the minute details that are missed even by regular videos. In such high detail, various elements become obvious. Factors such as the length of a horse's stride, angles of the leg, positions of the shoulder, neck as it relates to other body parts, even the movement of the hooves serve as the basis for detailed inspection and scrutiny. Even such minor but crucial details as head tossing, hollowed back and uneven strides that are the early signs of a Thoroughbred's developing lameness become evident.

Analyses of these factors through the use of high-advanced imaging equipment have made it possible to answer the age old question of horse racing: What makes one horse run faster than the other? Instead of depending on such changeable dynamics as pedigree to determine the winnability of a horse on the race track, a more precise science that looks at the physiological aspect of the Thoroughbred is finally available for serious horse racers. With equine biomechanics, fresh and relevant insights on the performance of the horse are gleaned and used not only to improve its winning percentage but to improve the sport through the fielding of better, faster horses.

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Preakness Stakes: The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans

The second race that comprises the American Thoroughbred Triple Crown series after the Kentucky Derby is the Preakness Stakes. Run for 1.91 km in the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland every third Saturday of May, the Preakness is a Grade 1 stakes race and is the second most attended in the Triple Crown series next to the Kentucky Derby.

Interestingly, while the Preakness has been called the "Run for the Black-eyed Susans" because of the 18x90 inch blanket of Rudbeckia hirta placed around the winner's neck, no black-eyed Susan, the state flower of Maryland, is ever used. This is because black-eyed Susans do not bloom until June or July. Daisies with centers painted with black lacquer to mimic the look of the black-eyed Susan are used instead.

Originally, a silver Woodlawn Vase (valued in 1983 at $1 million) was presented to the winner, but now, the winning owner is given a $30,000 sterling replica of the vase to keep permanently. The real one is kept on display at The Baltimore Museum of Art and brought only to Pimlico under strict guard once a year during the presentation ceremony.

This year's (2011) Preakness is unique with the introduction of Preakness 5.5, a special bonus program. This is historic inasmuch as it could award an additional $5.5 million in bonuses to the winner of the 2011 Preakness Stakes, to be shared between the owner ($5 million) and the trainer ($500,000).

This program allows both east and west coast based three-year-old horses to qualify in preliminary races which will be held at Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields. It will be, in the words of Frank Stronach, Chairman of MI Developments Inc. who will give the prize, "a spectacular event for the fans and to create a potential life changing experience for the stakeholders of the racing industry." He hopes that that this will "represent the greatest hope for the renewal of the thoroughbred racing business in America."

Some of the notable jockeys who have also dominated the Kentucky Derby have also made their marks in the Preakness: Eddie Arcaro has won it six times and Bill Hartack has won it for three. In 2009, Rachel Alexandra ridden by Calvin Borel was the only horse ever to win from the farthest outside position in the Preakness.

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Chiropractic Care for Your Horse

Having your Horse treated with Chiropractic care is a new successful way to get your horse's joints in the best condition. The main overall purpose to get your horse this type of care is to help its spinal system to function properly. Many horses will suffer from some sort of problem when it comes to their spinal column, and because of this they will not be able to perform properly, and the horse could even be in pain.

A horse's spinal column has over 150 joints in it that need to move and work properly in order for the animal to be at its best. If you get all of these joints moving properly, the horse will have more flexibility, will be more comfortable, and the animal will stay healthier. A chiropractic exam will evaluate what type of condition the horse's joints are in, and then will work to relax these joints and make them function properly.

It is especially important for you to have your horse evaluated by a Chiropractor if it is some type of performer. This includes any type of horse racing, and specific traumas can occur to the spinal column in many different circumstances. There are also many things to watch for that indicates that your horse needs to go in for a chiropractic exam. If your horse has discomfort when you are riding it, or when you are getting on the saddle, this is a good indication that the horse is suffering from subluxation of the spinal cord.

Other things to look at are the posture of the horse when it is standing. If anything seems off, it is an indication that the horse has some level of discomfort that more than likely is stemming from its spine. If your animal appears to be in pain, or refuses to do certain maneuvers, such as making jumps, this means that there is a problem, and getting the horse checked on and rehabilitated would be the best option to bring the horse back to health.

This type of care that you can provide to your horse isn't necessarily a replacement for normal care for a horse, or isn't an alternative option than going to a vet. What chiropractic therapy will do for your horse is specifically treat its spinal column, which can result in the horse being much healthier. Many problems a horse could be going through are a direct result to their joints being stiff or even injured, which are referred to as subluxation of the spine.

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Horse Racing 101: The Basics

Known as the "Sport of Kings," horse racing has been around for over a thousand years. From chariot races practiced by Greeks and Romans to the multibillion worldwide industry that it is today, horse racing has indeed come a long way. Many changes have come and gone as the sport continues to evolve, but one thing has remained constant about the sport: It continues to generate as much enthusiasm as on the day it started.

The thrill of watching equestrians race their hearts out is the reason why people continue to watch races or flock to various race tracks all over the country. This kind of excitement is also the reason why gambling is closely associated with horse racing. In fact, no talk of horse racing is ever complete without a corresponding take on betting out of luck or on one's favorite horse. The idea of a win (or the thought of a loss) makes for a great adrenalin rush at the race track. There is never a dull nor boring moment at the races.

While we commonly see the thoroughbreds in big races like the Kentucky Derby or the Breeder's Cup, they started out when they "broke their maiden." Maiden races are held for those horses who haven't won any race yet. Maiden Special Weight Races are held particularly for horses who display potential for winning and can be raced to higher competition.

Claiming races puts a price tag on the horse which can range from as low as $1,000 in minor tracks to as high as $100,000 in major tracks. In a claiming race, an individual requests to claim the horse before the race starts and becomes the horse's new owner after the race. Even if the horse ends up injured or worse, dead in the course of the race, he still needs to pay for the horse. In case the horse wins, the previous owner gets the purse money.

Allowance races have generally higher purses than the previously mentioned races. They're called allowance races because a certain allowance can be made off a predetermined weight if a horse meets certain conditions. This is especially done for those who haven't won other races. Allowances may also be made if the horse hasn't won since a certain date or if total winnings haven't reached a particular amount.

The cream-of-the-crop in horse races are known as stakes races. This is where the best horses slug it out. Stake races also carry very high purses which can vary from track to track. Needless to say, winning a stakes race is very prestigious for both the horse and the owner. Stakes can run from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars (the Breeders' Cup Classic runs for $5 million). Other high stakes races include the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and the Belmont Stakes.

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How Important Is Horse Race Handicapping?

The title of this article might seem a bit stupid. After all, handicapping is commonly used by most bettors to win their wagers. The Daily Racing Form and the track programs perpetuate it. Serious punters look at the morning line odds, performance charts, past races, previous workouts, medication and such other information available to guide their decision as to where to place their bets. Other factors, such as pedigree, trainer and jockey riding the horse and whether the horse performs well on the turn or on dirt are also carefully considered by handicappers in their quest for the win.

However, the question has now arisen as to whether handicapping the horse races is really that gainful. How important is it? And is it that beneficial?

First off, let's separate those who bet once in a while just to enjoy an occasional day at the races. They don't need to handicap any race. Their bets largely depend on Lady Luck's mercy. For those who do spend a fair amount of time at the races, handicapping is an advantage to be had. If you know how to analyze the race form and the track program, chances are, you'll be putting your money on the most winnable equine.

However, this form of betting generally has a short-term view attached to it. If you really want to make money from betting at the races, the long-term view must be taken in mind. And this involves more than handicapping any race. In other words, you've got to look for long odds that you cannot find on the race form but will surely make a difference in the outcome of the competition.

For example, a horse whose skills aren't as highly rated might have undergone an entirely new training regimen which shows itself in its gait and form (if you've taken the time or the trouble to watch it). Or a previously timid cold might have turned into one determined gelding who could really sweep the match. Diet changes may even play a huge role in the performance of a particular horse. And if you know the effects of certain medications on equines, then you'll be able to figure out where to place your bet.

Sure, handicapping the races has its advantages. But to really win big at the races, you've also got to learn to look elsewhere, at the less obvious odds that make a crucial difference.

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