The Horse Racecourse
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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:
Types of Artificial or Synthetic Racecourse Surfaces
- Polytrack
- Cushion Track
- Tapeta Footings
- Equitrack
RACECOURSE CONDITIONS
Dirt Racecourse
Fast - A racecourse that is completely dry and at optimal efficiency. Good - The racecourse's drying out process continues, and some flying dust is evident. Times improve and the racecourse is approaching a Fast condition.
Slow - A racecourse surface that has begun to dry out. The base is still soft, but surface drying is evident. Times are generally slower than normal.
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Sloppy - A racecourse that continues to accumulate moisture during or immediately after a heavy rain, which begins to seep into the base. The base is still solid, but the surface water is evident. Muddy - A racecourse whose base has been permeated by moisture. Times are somewhat slower, and running tires the horses more. Frozen - A condition of a racetrack where any moisture present is frozen. |
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.
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