Horse racing gear plays an important role in obtaining the best performance from a racehorse. Such equipment should improve the horse's racing ability, prevent injuries and help correct bad habits. Essential horse racing gear, also called tack, includes the saddle, bridle, bit, shoes and other accessories.
Saddle
The saddle is the piece of gear on which the jockey sits atop the horse. Horse racing saddles are much lighter than other saddle types, weighing 1 to 3 lbs. Many jockeys have their saddles custom made. A saddle blanket is placed underneath the saddle, while an elastic girth holds the saddle in place by stretching across the horse's underside and attaching to both sides. Stirrups are worn high so the jockey's knees sit high in the saddle.
Bridle
The bridle is a leather piece of gear that is placed over the horse's head to enable the jockey to control the horse. It consists of three straps--one that fits behind the ears, one in front of the ears and an optional nose band that fits a few inches above the nostrils. The reins are attached to both sides of the bridle's bit and lay over the horse's neck where the jockey can reach them.
Bit
The bit is the part of the bridle that fits in the horse's mouth and enables the jockey to control the horse during a race. Bits can be made of metal or rubber and come in a plethora of styles. Generally, a bit should be tightened just enough to create one or two wrinkles at the corners of the horse's mouth.
Shoes
Horse shoes prevent the hoof from cracking and provide traction on the race course. Racehorses typically are outfitted with lightweight aluminum shoes, or plates, that are changed every three to four weeks. Shoes are sometimes changed more often depending on how often the horse runs and the type of terrain it runs on. The most used plate is known as the regular toe front, an aluminum shoe that is raised 1/8 inch at the toe.
Accessories
A wealth of accessories is available to complement horse racing gear. Blinkers, worn close to the horse's eyes, restrict the horse's peripheral vision so it is not frightened by side movement. Breastplates are useful for horses with flat and round withers and attach to both sides of the girth, thereby preventing the saddle from slipping back. Whips encourage speed from a horse or to reprimand for bad behavior. Finally, a martingale can be attached to the girth and bridle to prevent the horse from throwing its head up--though this is more often used in training.
References
- "Professional Care of the Racehorse: A Guide to Grooming, Feeding, and Handling the Equine Athlete"; Theodore A. Landers; 2006
- Rider Tack: Horse Equipment
- American Quarter Horse Association: Racing Glossary
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