- Handicap races: In these races, the weight carried by each horse is determined by the horse’s ability, with the aim of creating a level playing field. Better horses carry more weight than weaker horses to try and make the race more competitive.
- Group races: These are the highest level of races, with the best horses competing against each other. They are divided into three categories: Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3, with Group 1 races being the most prestigious.
- Pattern races: These are a group of high-quality races that are used to grade horses and determine their ranking in the sport. They include Group races and a few other races that are considered to be of a similar standard.
- Conditions races: These are races where certain conditions must be met in order to qualify, such as a horse’s age or gender.
- Maiden races: These are races for horses that have never won a race before. They are usually restricted to horses of a certain age and gender.
- Novice races: These are races for horses that have not won a certain number of races before, usually restricted to a certain age group.
- Claiming races: These are races where all the horses are up for sale at a specific price before the race. The winner can be claimed (bought) by another owner for that price.
- Selling races: Similar to claiming races, all the horses in these races are up for sale, but the winner is sold to the highest bidder after the race.
- Nursery handicaps: These are handicaps for two-year-olds only, and the weight carried by each horse is determined by their age and ability.
- Classified stakes: These are non-handicap races that are open to horses that have not won a certain amount of money or races. They are often used as stepping stones for horses that are working their way up to better races.
Each type of race is designed to cater to different levels of horses and to provide a range of opportunities for trainers and owners to compete with their horses.
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