Explanation of words and degree of difficulty at race courses.

by John Stanbury

Horse Racecourses

In the descriptions of courses there are words like "galloping", "stiff" etc. Is there a definition for these words that is universal in horse racing for these descriptive terms and if so, could you include a glossary of terms on the web site please.

As a punter, I am interested to know whether there is a list of the hardest (slowest) to the easiest (fast)courses. This would possibly assist in measuring a horses capability by comparing it's performance at different tracks.

Thank you, John Stanbury johnstanbury@talktalk.net

Answer: Most course are unique in their characteristics but in general here are the main terms;

Galloping Track: Track has easy wide turns with few undulations which suits a long striding horse that likes to gallop without turning too much

Sharp Track: similar to tight track

Stiff Fences: Difficult to jump - being either high, wide, with drops in the ground or water beyond the fence.

Stiff Track: refers to a rise in the ground which can sap a horse's stamina especially when going is soft

Tight Track: a track with tight bends which suits a nimble horse

Click Here For Full List Of Racecourses in the UK with Characteristics