Horse racing is a form of equestrian sports that involves two or more horses ridden by jockeys over a predetermined distance. The sport has been a favorite for horse lovers for many years. Various countries around the world host a range of races, including the Melbourne Cup in Australia and Dubai World Cup in the Middle East. In America, the Belmont Stakes is the American classic race.

Racing dates back to the Greek Olympic Games in 700 to 40 B.C. However, the sport’s true origins are more difficult to pinpoint. A wager between two noblemen led to the first documented horse race. As it developed, racing expanded to include mount bareback races.

By the 17th century, organized races began to take place. One of the most popular forms of gambling involved horse races. Louis XIV, the King of France, created a system of rules for horse racing by decree. He also required certificates of origin for horses entering the races.

While the racing rules were standardized, there were notable exceptions. One rule was that only racers who had not won more than a certain amount could enter the races. Another rule stated that horses must be of a certain age. There were also restrictions on the geographical locations of the races.

The classic age of a horse is three years. This has led to fewer races for older horses. For the purpose of handicapping, weights for Thoroughbreds are adjusted according to the age of the horse. Also, sex allowances are provided for fillies.

During the 19th century, private bets were extended to bookmaking. After the Civil War, speed became a goal. Racer safety was a major concern. During this time, racecourses were flooded with veterinary doctors and expensive imaging equipment.

In addition, new drugs and performance aids were introduced. Growth hormones, blood doping, and antipsychotics were among the new products. These drugs were poorly tested and racing officials couldn’t keep up. Some racetracks didn’t run horses, facing pressure from the racing office.

Although the horse racing industry has grown, the tradition of betting on horses has endured. Betting enthusiasts have been enjoying horse races for centuries. Old money, dynastic, and smart money all converge on racetracks. Many racecourses now feature high-end sponsors, fashions on the field, and other entertainment.

Today, a new regulatory body has been formed to monitor and improve the safety of the sport. The new agency is scheduled to begin work in July 2022. It hopes to establish safety practices that are more closely aligned with the rest of the racing industry.

In recent years, technological advances have had a significant impact on the sport. Thermal imaging cameras can detect overheating horses after the race. 3D printing can produce casts of injured horses, prosthetics, and splints. Using these advancements, the industry can continue to evolve.

The horse racing industry has also been impacted by the advent of syndicates. Syndicates are small groups of people who share ownership of a racehorse. Several hundred people may be granted shares in a racehorse, allowing them to profit.