What Makes a Good Race Horse?

Horse racing is one of the most spectacular sports there is. Dubbed as the Sport of Kings, the sight of gracefully strong Thoroughbreds flying through the race track with such amazing speed is a sight to behold. Indeed, the horse is the main actor on the race track, and the primary reason why people want to get a race horse.

But choosing the best horse to buy for the race track isn't an easy task and those new in the business only have a vague idea of what to look for. For the untrained eye, one horse looks like any other horse, save perhaps for a difference in color.

There are a few guidelines that can help those who want to buy a race horse choose the one who has the most potential to dominate the track. One of the first things to look for in a race horse is its height, measured in "hands" (one hand is about 4 inches). A thoroughbred should stand at an average of 16 hands from its feet to its withers. Its heart weighs 10 pounds, although some particularly famous racehorses have been known to have hearts that weigh as much as 20 pounds! Its frame should be balanced and in proportion. His neck, back and hip must appear to be of equal length and his frame should carry his muscle mass well. A horse who isn't balanced is more prone to injuries.

Check for alertness. A race horse who exhibits this characteristic has his ears pointing and moving in all directions. His eyes are big and bright and not sunken or bulging nor too close together. This also goes with the fact that the ideal racehorses also have large nostrils to allow for serious fuel intake of the body. Close observation of its temperament will tell if he is keen and alert and aware of what is happening around him.

Look at the feet since these are the parts of the body that has to withstand the constant impact of racing. Misshapen or cracked feet aren't too good a trait for race horses. Moreover, good racehorses have short, straight and strong cannon bones with knees that are proportional to the leg bones. Look for shoulders that exhibit good muscle structure that slope slightly. Check that they have muscular necks and have room enough for breathing. Needless to say, the back hips and buttocks of a horse should also be big, bold and powerful.

Always remember that these conformations give you a clue to what racehorses are supposed to do: To run fast on the race track and win. You may not get these subtle differences easily, but with time and practice, you're sure to develop a keen eye on choosing the perfect race horse.

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