Horse racing is an umbrella term that involves different types of races which are suited for particular breeds of horses. When you have landed on this page, it is understandable that you take an interest in horse races. Well, there are different types of horse races conducted all across the world. You must have heard about a few of them only. There are plenty of races that are still uncommon and limited only to specific regions. The recognized categories of horse racing are discussed below:

• Flat races:

This is probably the most familiar type of horse racing, and it is seen almost in every part of the world where horse racing is prominent as a form of sport. The racing surface or track is generally oval shaped and is level. However, variation is also observed with respect to flat race tracks and gradients are introduced to change the slope of the track. The surface of the track is generally covered with either turf or dirt, but in the present times, synthetic options like Polytrack is also used. The range of distance that is covered in a flat race is from 400 meters or 440 yards to 4 kilometers. The races that involve 400 meters of distance are termed as short races which are popularly called sprints.

The races involving longer distances are known as staying races or routes. In a conditions race, the issue of fairness is addressed by ensuring that all horses carry the same weight while racing. However, younger horses and also female horses are given some relief if they are running against male horses. One should follow all protocols needed for maintaining the health of horses and fairness in the racing competition. You can watch live races at TVG Horse Racing.

• Races involving jumping:

Horse racing that involves jumping can be divided into two categories. One is Steeplechase, and another is Hurdle. In both races, the kind of obstacles that are present for the horses differs in size. Horses that are older are used for jump racing that involves larger obstacles and long distances. Therefore most young horses begin with flat racing and then move on the stage of racing over hurdles.

• Races that test endurance:

This form of race is not wholly dependent on speed and highly rests on the ability and stamina of the horse. As these races are conducted with at least a ten-mile distance so instead of artificial race tracks natural trails are chosen for conducting the race. The endurance race is divided into different categories depending upon the length of the trail. These categories are given below:

 Races that involve a distance between 10 to 20 miles are known as pleasure rides.

 When the trail ranges between 21 and 27 miles the race is termed as a non-competitive ride.

 The trails that range between 20 to 45 miles fall under the category of competitive rides.

 A progressive ride involves the traveling of a distance of 25 to 60 miles.

 The endurance category of rides has the longest length that ranges between a day-long race covering up to 100 miles or a ride of multiple days covering 400 km.

Knowing about these races will enable a person to take part or enjoy the different types of horse racing.