Horse Racing
Japanese Name:
競馬
Romaji Name:
keiba
Description
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Horse racing is a sport where horses, ridden by jockeys, compete to finish a set distance the fastest.
It is one of the oldest and most popular sports involving animals.
Races vary in length, type (flat racing, steeplechase), and track surface (dirt, turf, or synthetic).
Thoroughbreds are the most commonly used breed in flat racing.
Jockeys must manage the horse's pace and positioning throughout the race.
Racing events often include betting, making it a major industry worldwide.
Prestigious races include the Kentucky Derby, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, and Japan Cup.
Horse racing is also a cultural event, with fashion and tradition playing key roles.
History
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Horse racing dates back thousands of years, with origins in ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and Babylon.
Chariot and mounted horse races were part of the ancient Olympic Games.
Modern organized racing began in England in the 17th century with royal patronage.
The first recorded races in Japan took place during the 8th century, but modern racing developed in the Meiji era.
Betting became closely tied to the sport in the 18th–19th centuries, fueling its growth.
Studbooks and official records helped standardize breeds and race formats.
Major races and tracks developed worldwide in the 20th century, including Tokyo Racecourse.
Today, horse racing is a global sport with deep economic, cultural, and historical roots.