The Horse Racecourse

The racecourse is a purpose-built facility for the conduct of races. Most racecourses in the world are used for the purpose of racing horses.

Horseracing is a popular sport in many other countries, most of which have been influenced strongly by the culture of the United Kingdom. These places include Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Hong Kong, which are all former British colonies. As such, the racecourse is a major place of congregation for many sport-loving citizens in these places.

The shape of the horseracing racecourse is usually circular or oval.

SEGMENTS OF THE RACECOURSE

• Stretch - This is the straight segment of the oval racecourse. This is where the sprints are made. The backstretch is found in the far side of the racing surface while the homestretch refers to the final straight portion of the racecourse to the finish line.

• Turn - These are the curved segments of the oval racecourse. This is the area where starting points are usually found and is the place where most horses "make their moves" and start positioning themselves for a rally on the homestretch.

• Chutes - These form the extension of the backstretch or the homestretch to permit a straight running start.

THE RACECOURSE COMPLEX

Aside from the racecourse itself, a racecourse complex also typically features the following facilities:

• Grandstands or Concourses
• Stable Areas
• Accommodation Areas and Dormitories
• Recreation Areas
• Restaurants

RACECOURSE SURFACES

There are three major racecourse surfaces in use:

• Dirt

• Turf or Grass

• Artificial or Synthetic - Almost all of these surfaces are typically made up of wax-coated mixture of sand, rubber and various synthetic fibers. These have been designed to better protect the well-being of horses.

Types of Artificial or Synthetic Racecourse Surfaces

• Polytrack
• Cushion Track
• Tapeta Footings
• Equitrack

RACECOURSE CONDITIONS

Turf or Grass Racecourse

• Firm - A turf racecourse course that is completely dry and at optimal efficiency. This is the equivalent of the Fast condition on a dirt racecourse.

• Hard - A racecourse surface on which horses do not have normal cushion. Turf courses frequently become hard after periods of drought and high temperatures.

• Yielding - The condition of a turf racecourse with a great deal of moisture. Horses sink into the surface noticeably.

• Soft - The condition of a turf racecourse with a large amount of moisture. Horses' hooves sink in and dig up the course, and times are considerably slower.