A horse race is a type of event in which a group of horses are ridden by jockeys to compete against each other. The horse that finishes first wins the race and its owner collects the prize money, which is usually in the form of a purse or other monetary award. The race is often run over a course with obstacles, such as jumps, that make the competition more difficult and dangerous for the horses. The sport has a long history and is an important part of the culture of many countries.

A race is not considered a legitimate one unless the rules are followed. Among the most important is the fact that a horse must be legally registered to participate in a race, and it must also be of a breed that is suitable for racing. In addition, the owner must meet other requirements, such as being a citizen of the country where the race is being held.

The process of a horse race begins with the weighing in, when the horses and their jockeys are weighed to ensure they are carrying the proper weight. The horses are then paraded into the paddock, a section of the racetrack where they are saddled and prepared for the race. The jockeys are then given instructions from their trainers, and they mount their horses. After the race is over, the stewards examine the horses and their riders to determine whether or not any fouls were committed. This is also the time when any medications given to the horse are verified.

One of the most common fouls is riding a horse too fast, which can cause the animal to lose control and fall over. This can also result in an injury, such as a fractured back or shattered leg. Injuries can be life-threatening for the animals, as they may not be able to stand upright on their own and may need assistance from other horses or human beings.

Injuries are common in horse races, and the majority of these injuries occur to horses that are competing in steeplechases. These races are the most grueling of all, as they require the horses to jump over a variety of obstacles. Injuries can include pulmonary hemorrhage, or bleeding out of the lungs, and shattered limbs, where only skin keeps the bone from breaking off.

A horse race is a sport that requires both speed and stamina, and it takes place on a variety of surfaces, including dirt and grass. The sport originated in Europe and is closely associated with the country of Ireland, where legend has it that the first race took place between two horses for a hogshead of wine. Since then, it has spread to all corners of the world. It has been embraced by wealthy individuals and incorporated into the social fabric of several countries. Today, it is a highly lucrative industry, with the largest race in the world being the Kentucky Derby.