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Horse Racing

Horse Racing


There aren’t many sports that can match the pure adrenaline rush of horse racing. Horses are incredible animals, and humans learning how to tame and ride them has led to some of the greatest advancements and accomplishments that humanity has achieved. The thoroughbreds that compete in horse races are some of the fastest riding animals in existence, and many are able to reach 40 miles per hour at full gallop. Horse races are measured in furlongs, and each furlong equals 1/8 of a mile. Different races may vary in distance, with sprints typically measuring six furlongs and mid-distances measuring eight or nine furlongs. However, the “classic” length run by most three-year-old racehorses in their prime is around 10 furlongs, or one and a quarter miles. There are also a variety of other types of horse racing that are popular around the world.

Horse racing offers a great experience for spectators at the racetrack. Races typically only last a couple of minutes, and many races are usually run all day, giving fans plenty of action to see and racehorses and jockeys to cheer for. Betting is also a big part of horse racing, which adds another thrilling way for the audience to participate in the action. With so much speed and athleticism on display, and so many chances for fans to get in on the excitement, it’s no surprise that horse racing is such a popular sport.

Famous Horse Races


The Kentucky Derby is the most famous horse race on the planet, with over 150,000 fans in attendance in early May each year to see which horse and rider will cross the finish line first. The Kentucky Derby is the primary leg of what’s known as The Triple Crown, which also includes the Belmont Stakes and the Preakness Stakes.

These high-profile horse races all have rich histories and showcase some of the best racehorses in the world. They are also major social events full of glamour, tradition, and elegance. At the Derby, many spectators get dressed up in fancy clothes and elaborate hats, drink mint juleps, and sing “My Old Kentucky Home” as part of the festivities. The Triple Crown has featured world-class jockeys and some of the most famous racehorses to ever run on the track, including Secretariat, Affirmed, and American Pharoah. Each year, horseracing fans study the racebook, observe the horses paraded through the paddock pre-race, then place millions of wagers through betting partners like TwinSpires and TVG.

While The Triple Crown races are some of the most famous in the world, there are many other horseraces that draw huge crowds. Events are held at popular tracks such as Thistledown in Ohio, Turfway Park in Kentucky, Tampa Bay Downs in Florida, Ruidoso Downs in New Mexico, and Pimlico Race Course in Maryland.

Buying Tickets to a Horse Race


With so many options to choose from, fans have plenty of chances to get out and see a horse race live. Not only that, but tickets to the racetrack are typically very affordable, making a day at the racecourse an excellent option for a family-friendly day out. While an exclusive VIP or grandstand ticket to the Kentucky Derby might be a little pricey, the average general admission ticket to most horse racing tracks is relatively cheap compared with other sporting events. Whether you want a seat at one of the top horse racing events or spend a leisurely day at your local racetrack, Event Tickets Center has the tickets to get you there. ETC has resale tickets available to every major racecourse in the country and many local venues as well. So, the next time you want to see your favorite horses and jockeys compete head-to-head, visit ETC to get your tickets.