What is Thoroughbred Racing?

Thoroughbred racing is what most people picture when they think of horse racing — sleek horses, thundering hooves, dirt flying, and one clear objective: be first past the post. It’s the beating heart of American horse racing, the format behind the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup, and the most widely bet-on racing code in the country.

And yes — it’s also the format you’ll find front and center at MyWinners, whether you’re betting online or catching the action at a local Winners venue.

Thoroughbred racing is flat racing — horses run over dirt or turf tracks, without hurdles, jockeys in the saddle. These horses are bred for speed, agility, and stamina, making for fast-paced, high-stakes competition.

The sport has its roots in 17th-century England, but the US version has its own traditions and superstars. Horses race at distances from 5 furlongs to 1¼ miles, and the surface can be dirt, turf, or synthetic.

A Bit of History (and a Lot of Prestige)

The Thoroughbred breed originated by crossing Arabian and English horses for speed. The first American racetrack opened in Long Island in 1665, and by the 1800s, racing had exploded in popularity.

Today, the US boasts legendary meets and iconic races:

Triple Crown: The Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes — the holy grail of US racing
Breeders’ Cup: A two-day world championship attracting top talent from around the globe
Saratoga, Churchill Downs, Santa Anita: Historic venues with regular race calendars and passionate fanbases

Why Do Bettors Thoroughbred Racing?

Because it has everything:

Big fields mean better odds and more betting options
Regular racing across the country and throughout the day
Variety of conditions — track surface, weather, jockey changes, and distance all matter
Drama and unpredictability: Even heavy favorites lose, and longshots often land big paydays

And let’s not lie — there’s glamour too. Derby Day isn’t just about betting; it’s about tradition, hats, bourbon, and prestige.

Who Follows Thoroughbred Racing?

Casual fans who watch the Derby once a year
Everyday bettors who play online at MyWinners
Seasoned handicappers reading past performances like gospel
Young bettors drawn in by the pace and pulse of Race for the Crown-style rivalries

You’ll find Thoroughbred racing broadcast daily online and in retail locations across Connecticut and beyond.

Most Popular Bet Types in Thoroughbred Racing

Win / Place / Show – Classic and simple
Exacta / Trifecta / Superfecta – For the sharp bettors
Daily Double / Pick 3 / Pick 4 – Multi-race thrillers with huge pools
Across the Board – One bet, three outcomes

At MyWinners, you can also combine bets, box them, or play part-wheels to increase your chances.

💡 Did You Know? Thoroughbred racing is the most widely bet-on format in the US, with races running daily across major tracks. It’s fast, strategic, and ideal for bettors looking for deep fields, exotic wagers, and big payouts — all legally available through MyWinners and at Winners venues in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thoroughbred racing?

Thoroughbred racing is flat horse racing over dirt or turf, usually between 5 furlongs and 1¼ miles. It features sleek, athletic horses bred for speed and stamina.

What are the most famous Thoroughbred races in the US?

The Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont) and the Breeders’ Cup are the most prestigious Thoroughbred events in the US.

Where can I bet on Thoroughbred races online?

You can bet on Thoroughbred races daily at MyWinners, including races from major US tracks and international simulcasts.

What types of bets are most common in Thoroughbred racing?

Win, Place, Show, Exacta, Trifecta, and multi-race bets like Pick 4 are popular with both casual and serious bettors.

Is Thoroughbred racing legal to bet on in the US?

Yes. Pari-mutuel wagering on Thoroughbred racing is legal in most US states and available online, at racetracks, and simulcast venues like Winners locations in Connecticut.