A horse race is a contest in which a large number of horses compete against one another for a fixed prize, usually money. Typically, the largest races are called stakes races and offer the most prize money. The winners are those who finish first in a race, but in the richest races a second, third and fourth prize may also be awarded. The performance of a horse in a race is influenced by its ability, age, the size of its breed (Quarter Horses are shorter than Thoroughbreds), and the quality of its training.

Often, the horse race is run in a racetrack, and spectators can watch the race from grandstands, bleachers, or private boxes. The event is also broadcast on television and is widely covered by the press. A race can have different forms, including a sprint, a middle distance, or a long distance race. The race is a form of entertainment that is popular in many cultures and has influenced the development of other sports, such as football, baseball, and basketball.

In the United States, the sport of horse racing has been in decline since World War II, losing its position among the top five spectator sports to professional and collegiate team sports. Some argue that the decline is a result of the failure to embrace television and of a lack of marketing effort, while others point to poor demographics for the sport. The majority of racetrack patrons are older, retired, and male, a demographic that has been a problem for the industry in its efforts to reach the younger generation.

Although the sport is heavily regulated by government agencies and has high standards for animal welfare, horse race injuries are common and sometimes fatal. The exorbitant physical stress of horse racing can contribute to a variety of injuries, including musculoskeletal and respiratory problems. Injuries can also be caused by the equipment used on the horses, such as tongue ties and spurs.

During the 1860s, horse racing became hugely popular in the United States and England. A British traveler wrote that the races “roused as much interest as a presidential election.” A number of major races were established at this time, and some were even promoted as North-South events. The Union Course in Long Island, New York, for example, staged the first North-South race in 1823, a series of three four-mile heats between the Northern champion Eclipse and the Southern horse Sir Henry.

The Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes are three of the most famous horse races in the world. The Triple Crown races are the most prestigious races of the year and have attracted a great deal of media attention. Other important races include the Sunshine Millions and the Breeders’ Cup. Spectators often travel from other parts of the country to attend these races.