If you’ve ever watched the Race for the Crown docuseries, you’ll know horse racing isn’t just a sport — it’s a world of elite athletes, historic rivalries, and betting opportunities like nowhere else. It’s fast. It’s glamorous. It’s unpredictable. And once you’ve experienced a race live — or even streamed one on your phone — you’ll see why so many people are hooked.
Horse racing is one of the oldest organised sports on earth, with a legacy stretching from royal stables to modern-day betting platforms like MyWinners.com. And today, whether you're betting on the Kentucky Derby, watching live from Saratoga, or streaming an evening card from Japan or Australia, the thrill remains the same: pick a winner, and you could turn insight into payout.
What Is Horse Racing?
What Is Horse Racing?
At its core, horse racing is a competition of speed, stamina, and strategy. Horses, bred for elite performance, compete on a track while guided by a jockey. The first to cross the finish line wins — but for bettors, there are dozens of ways to profit from the outcome.
Every race has:
A set distance
A specific surface (dirt, turf, or synthetic)
A unique field of competitors, each with its own story and odds
The Main Types of Races (US and Beyond)
The Main Types of Races (US and Beyond)
There are three main formats in the US:
Thoroughbred Racing – Flat-out speed, typically on dirt or turf tracks. This is the format for legendary events like the Triple Crown.
Harness Racing – Horses pull a two-wheeled cart called a sulky and are timed at a trot or pace.
Quarter Horse Racing – All-out sprints, often under 20 seconds, demanding explosive speed and razor-sharp instincts.
Elsewhere in the world, you’ll also find:
International Thoroughbred Racing – Iconic meets like Royal Ascot, The Melbourne Cup, and The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
Greyhound Racing – Where permitted, this fast-paced format features dogs racing on oval tracks — a popular betting variant with similar mechanics.
Why Horse Racing Is So Exhilarating for Bettors
Why Horse Racing Is So Exhilarating for Bettors
Let’s cut to the chase — you’re here because you want the action. And few sports deliver it like horse racing.
It’s fast. Races happen every few minutes, across multiple tracks. You don’t wait 90 minutes for a result — you wait 90 seconds.
It’s strategic. You’re not betting fixed odds set by a bookie — you’re playing against the market with pari-mutuel pools.
It’s glamorous. From big hats to big money, races like the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup are American showpieces.
It’s unpredictable. The favourite loses more often than it wins. Value is everywhere, especially in exotic bets.
It’s global. You can bet races from New York, Tokyo, or Sydney — all in the same day, all from your phone.
If you’re looking for a betting experience that’s faster than football, more open than roulette, and more analytical than slots, you’re in the right place.
Horse Racing and Betting: A Natural Pairing
Horse Racing and Betting: A Natural Pairing
Because races are short and come with so many variables (track conditions, jockey, pace, distance, post position), they’re perfect for analytical bettors. Whether you're just getting started or sharpening your system, there’s always a new angle to explore.
And with pari-mutuel betting, your payout is tied to the crowd — not a static line. That means savvy bettors can beat the market, find overlays, and profit from public bias.
💡 Did You Know? The Kentucky Derby is nicknamed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sport”?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is horse racing and how does it work?
What is horse racing and how does it work?
Horse racing is a competitive sport where horses race on a track, guided by jockeys. The first to finish wins — but bettors can back horses to win, place, show, or finish in exact combinations.
Why is horse racing such a big betting sport?
Why is horse racing such a big betting sport?
Because it’s fast, strategic, and full of variance. With races happening every few minutes and no fixed odds, there are always opportunities for value.
What are the different types of races in the US and internationally?
What are the different types of races in the US and internationally?
In the US: Thoroughbred, Harness, and Quarter Horse races. Internationally: turf racing in the UK and Japan, iconic meets like Royal Ascot and The Melbourne Cup.
Can I bet on international races from the US?
Can I bet on international races from the US?
Yes. MyWinners.com offers betting on simulcast races from tracks around the world, including the UK, Ireland, Hong Kong, and Australia.
Do favourites usually win in horse racing?
Do favourites usually win in horse racing?
Not as often as you’d think. In most races, the favourite only wins about 30-35% of the time — which creates opportunities for better value bets.