Horse racing has been one of the most popular contests enjoyed by horse lovers. They love the adrenaline that is involved in horse racing. It is an activity that needs many preparations to achieve a certain goal. There are many types of horse racing but whatever type it is, there are many measures observed prior to the race. It is also a dangerous sport because of the speed of the running horses, the jockey might fall and get injured. Many jockeys ended up in hospitals because of poor planning and preparation. Therefore, it is a must to be completely equipped of all the things needed before being on tracks, racing.

The game is mainly focused on the horse, trainer and the jockey. The horse, jockey and the trainer should work as a team in order to have a successful collaboration. This can be achieved with intensive training months before any competition. The owner of the horse, usually the trainer or the jockey, should have the right choice in choosing a faster and better horse. Since the horse is one of the main stars of the race, it should possess the speed and all the characteristics of a racer like control, stopping and turning. One of the most popular horses trained by racers is the American Quarter Horse. It is a horse that excels in any racing competition. It is famous for defeating other breeds of horses, and it is usually used in many equestrian activities. There are other horses that are a mixture of different bloodlines, which were also considered as fast horses just like the Azteca. The Azteca possesses excellent tracking skills and is an alert type of horse. It is also easy to train and is eager to follow the trainer. Another horse suitable for racing is the Criollo, which is better in terms of long distance racing. It is characterized to be brave and has a strong physical build up. It can withstand harsh conditions and is very popular for its stamina and power. The Arabian horse is also a good choice for racing because it also possesses qualities like the aforementioned. This breed of horse is a fast learner, willing to work and easy to adapt. These are only few of the fastest known horses used in racing.

The trainer is responsible for preparing the horse during the entire racing life of the horse. Though horses are of many breeds and most of them are naturally fast and better horses, the trainer should also be knowledgeable in handling these horses. The trainer should also display congruence with what the horse possesses and should be patient and compassionate during the training period. It is definitely not an easy task to train animals like horses but with perseverance success is imminent. Prior to the competition training should be done routinely and daily. This will develop a sense of discipline to both the horse and the trainer. The trainer may or may not be the one who will be riding the horse during the competition. Trainers can choose professional jockeys that are physically qualified to ride the horse during a competition. The chosen jockey should have the adequate knowledge, skills and attitude in dealing with the horse during the race. They should have a certain connection with each other to successfully win a race.

Safety gears are also part of the preparation. Appropriate attire is required in order for a participant to join. The choice of these safety gears should be meticulous and should be of good quality. The jockey should not settle for low quality vest, helmets and other safety gears to avoid injuries and damages if an unexpected fall will occur. There are safety gears that have been investigated that have contributed to further damage during a fall and there are modifications done to these safety equipments. A good choice will lead to a good outcome. Lastly, during the race, the jockey should be confident that he can handle the horse well and should always be positive about things. Being optimistic is the first step to a successful career. After knowing these basic guidelines, the racer will surely have a safe and a worthwhile experience in horse racing.

Horses

In horse racing, the horses are very important players to consider. It should be on its best shape and condition. Like horse riders, horses should be given the utmost attention because without, there will be no horse racing. Preparing the horses will begin from its daily grooming, food and vitamins, and daily exercises and training.

Horseshoes are very important part of the horses because its feet are the ones that carry the race.  Horse groomers should see to it that horseshoes fit well the feet of the horses. It should not give discomfort to the horses as it will negatively affect the way horses run and gallop. Also, horses should have a well-maintained shelter, free from pests or any dirt that may harm the health of the horses. It might sound grand, but this is the way it should be if one is really dead serious in taking the horse racing industry.

Meanwhile, proper nutrition and good diet should be given to horses so that they can sustain the daily training they have to endure. The health of the horses is at the top priority in order to have a good race.

When it comes to training racing horses, a good trainer is very vital.  It is the trainer who will prepare the training schedule and program of the horses. Such program involves endurance and strength which are very needed if in a race.  Trainings usually include at least 25-mile rides daily, with interval training in between. Horses are also exposed to the different terrains during the training – not just at plains but also uphills and rugged terrains which test its endurance.

Riders

Aside from horses, horse riders also need to make the necessary preparations before getting into horse racing. Just like the horses, the riders should be at his/her best condition and shape.  The rider should be physically fit – this means that he/she can endure the physical and emotional demands of the race.  He/she should have the stamina to control the horse and keep it going until the very last part of the race.  It should be taken into mind that the rider and the horse should be working as one during the entire race. Both should know each other well so that one will know the right timing of each other during the race.

Meanwhile, the rider should be well-trained in horse racing. He/she should know the do’s and don’ts of the game.  Also, the rider should have the guts to be on the game. Horse racing can be physically and mentally demanding; hence, the rider should have the physical and mind conditioning to withstand all the pressure.

The right key in this game is to have discipline in dealing with the preparations and during the racing itself  – discipline to live a healthy life and the discipline to train and practice in order to become a sure winner during the entire horse racing.