Horse races are popular around the world and attract a large audience. They are often televised and a wide range of betting options are available. Some bettors place a bet on which horse will win the race while others prefer to make accumulator bets. The winner of a horse race is determined by which runner crosses the finish line first, second or third.

The sport of horse racing has a long and complex history. It was the result of the early domestication of horses, when nomadic tribesmen in Central Asia bred them for speed and endurance. During the 12th Century, English knights returning from the Crusades brought Arab stallions back to Europe and began breeding them with English mares. This resulted in the Thoroughbred breed, which is the most commonly used in horse racing.

During the race, a jockey or driver atop a horse controls the horse’s movements and acceleration. These are essential skills to have, as they can make or break a race. When betting on a horse race, it is important to look at the jockey or driver’s record and riding style. A jockey or driver with a good track record and strong riding style is a better bet than a newcomer who has never ridden in a race.

In a horse race, runners are given weights based on their age, sex and past performance. A runner that carries less weight is considered a “lightweight” and has a greater chance of winning the race. A runner that carries more weight is considered a “heavyweight” and has a lesser chance of winning. The amount of money added to the purse for a race by an industry fund. The ‘Total’ is a combination of the Win, Place and Show prices.

Before the start of a horse race, horses are put through a series of exercises known as a workout. This is a time for jockeys and drivers to evaluate the horses’ fitness, running style and performance. It is also an opportunity for the horses to get used to the race environment and the noise and chaos that will be present during the race.

The workout also gives the jockey or driver an opportunity to test the horse’s response to a whip. It is important to be aware that horses do not enjoy being whipped, as this causes pain and discomfort. Many race tracks use Lasix, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that reduces the stress of horse racing and helps a horse perform at its best. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority is conducting a three-year study into the effects of Lasix on horse health and welfare. The results of this may eventually lead to a ban on its use on race day. Currently, the drug is used on about 75 percent of race horses in the United States. This figure is significantly lower in other countries, including Europe.