by Horse races are not only the most popular sport in the world but also the most lucrative, with bettors putting up to millions of dollars on their favorite horses. While betting to win is the most common way for fans to bet on a horse race, there are also many other ways to place bets including accumulator bets in which multiple bets can be placed at one time. In addition to betting, many people attend horse races for the pleasure of watching the horses run and the overall experience of the event.
In the days leading up to a race, Siena’s central square, Piazza del Campo, is transformed beyond recognition, with bleachers erected in the center to hold thousands of spectators and a gritty mixture of clay and earth packed onto the gold cobblestones to create a compact track for the horses. The streets in the surrounding neighborhoods are closed off, and a thick coating of dust envelops everything.
The horse race begins when a small number of impatiently waiting horses are gathered in front of the starting rope. Then the bell rings and nine horses, each ridden by a jockey wearing a white cap with blue trim and red stripes, line up in front of a barrier. When the horse in front of the pack starts to move and levels with its rivals, a flag drops, and a minute and a half of ruthless battle ensues.
For decades, virtually every thoroughbred in the United States has been injected with Lasix before running. The drug is a diuretic, and its purpose is to prevent pulmonary bleeding that can occur during hard running. Horses that bleed during a race can quickly become fatal, and bloody horses look awful. During a race, Lasix causes the horse to unload epic amounts of urine—twenty or thirty pounds worth.
While horse racing remains a lucrative business, the industry faces challenges from animal rights activists and a growing public awareness of the dark side of the sport. Despite improvements in safety and training practices, it is still possible for a horse to be injured or break down during a race. Unless the horse is immediately pulled from competition, it can be sold to another owner without disclosing its injury and ultimately sent on to slaughter.
Regardless of whether you think the practice is cruel, horse racing continues to be the most profitable sport in the world. It is important to understand the rules and regulations that govern the sport so you can be an informed bettor. In addition to knowing the terms like handicap races and sex, it is also crucial to know how to read the racing form and to be familiar with the different types of bets that are available. In addition to win and show bets, there are a number of other options that can increase your chances of winning including bets on the top three and accumulator bets. A good understanding of the different bets will allow you to make wiser and more profitable bets.
