Horse races are events where humans place bets on horses to determine the winner of a race. Historically, the majority of races were match races where two or more horses competed against one another and the owner provided the purse for the wager. The early races were often restricted by age, sex, birthplace, or previous performance. The rules of horse racing were consolidated by individuals who published compilations of the agreements reached in these matches. The earliest known publication was An Historical List of All Horse-Matches Run (1729). Today, national horse racing organizations develop rulebooks to govern the sport and establish eligibility for runners in particular events.

In the United States, the majority of horse races are sprints, with a focus on speed. This differs from the European style of racing, where stamina is emphasized. The distance of the course varies as well. Some races are 2 1/2 miles (3.2 kilometers), while others may be 1 1/2 mile or less in length.

The enduring popularity of horse racing is largely due to the appeal of betting, as it allows individuals to bet small sums of money on a race to win a large amount of money. A number of different types of bets are available to players, including exactas, parlays, and future bets. These bets require careful research and analysis. In addition to the bets themselves, players must also consider the track conditions and the weather. A heavy track, for example, will cause a horse to tire more quickly.

Despite the romanticized facade of horse racing, it is a dangerous and brutal sport in which horses are pushed to run at speeds that can lead to severe injuries, gruesome breakdowns, and even death. The industry relies on a mix of gamblers, donors, and public support to thrive.

A horse race is a competitive event in which horses are ridden and guided by jockeys. The jockeys are positioned on the front of the horse and use a whip to urge the animal forward. The type of horse used in a race is determined by the rules of the particular race. A Thoroughbred, for instance, is a breed that is developed for speed and endurance.

A steward is an individual in charge of an official inquiry during a horse race. Their duties include examining the condition of the horses, determining the weight carried by each horse, and identifying any rule infractions that may have been committed. In addition, stewards are responsible for the safety and welfare of the horses and must keep records of each race.