Horse racing is a sport where excitement and competition are at their peak. Horse breeds that are successful in these races draw attention with their specific physical and genetic characteristics. So, which horse breeds are more successful in horse races and which criteria affect this success? If you are looking for the answer to this question, here are the answers:

Criteria Affecting Success

There are many factors that determine success in horse racing. The main ones are as follows:

• Genetics: The genetic makeup of horses largely determines their physical characteristics such as speed and endurance. Horses with superior genetic characteristics tend to be more successful in races.
• Training and Nutrition: Regular and effective training programs and diet of horses directly affect their performance. A good training and nutrition program ensures that horses are prepared for races in the best way possible.
• Jockey and Trainer: The experience and knowledge of the jockeys and trainers who guide them play a major role in the success of horses. A master jockey and an experienced trainer can maximize the horse’s potential.
• Health and Care: The general health and care of horses is one of the most important factors affecting their racing performance. Regular veterinary check-ups and careful care keep horses healthy and strong.

British Thoroughbred Horses (Thoroughbred)

English thoroughbreds are one of the most popular and successful breeds in horse racing. Originated in the 17th century in England as a result of crossbreeding Arabian, Berber and Turkish horses with native English horses, this breed has superior characteristics in terms of speed and endurance. On average, they are 1.60 – 1.70 meters tall and weigh 450 – 550 kilograms.

Reasons for its success:

• Speed and Endurance: Thanks to their long legs and strong musculature, English thoroughbreds can reach high speeds and run long distances more easily than other breeds.
• Genetic Structure: Descended from famous stallions such as Byerley Turk, Darley Arabian and Godolphin Arabian, these horses are genetically endowed with superior speed and stamina, which have a great influence on their success.
• Training and Nutrition: These horses are bred to reach the highest performance with special training programs and nutrition schemes, and they show the potential to be very successful thanks to this upbringing.

Arabian Horses

Arabian horses are known for their grace and endurance. These horses are usually successful in long-distance endurance races. Arabian horses are characterized by their shorter stature and slimmer build.

Reasons for their success:

• Endurance: Arabian horses are known for their ability to run long distances at high speed. These characteristics give them an advantage on the tracks and this advantage affects their success.
• Elegance and Power: Thanks to their elegant appearance and strong musculature, these horses can perform well in races.

• Historical Genetics: Arabian horses have a history of thousands of years, preserving their genetic heritage of endurance and speed.