Beginner's Guide To Horseracing
Racing Explained
Does the idea of a day at the races sound daunting? Don't understand the different colours, the racecard or the race as a whole?
Check out our beginner's guide to racing and immerse yourself in a world of sport and entertainment today!
Before The Race
Whilst it may not seem like it, there is a lot of preparation that goes into a race. Take a look below and explore the different areas that pull together to make the magic of a raceday happen.
The Stables
The stables are where the Raceday begins, before a horse sets a hoof on the track.
The Weighing Room
On the racecourse, the weighing room is a jockey's inner sanctum. Part dressing room, part nerve centre.
The Racecard
The race card is your handy guide to everything you need to follow all of the action on Raceday.
The Parade Ring
Think of the parade ring as the opening scene in a film or tv show, setting the scene of what's to come on the track.
The Main Event
Sporting action like no other, embrace the noises that define the main event. From the call of the ‘bookies’ to the thundering of hooves, both flat and jump racing offers entertainment like no other.
Meet The Bookmakers
Meet the bookmakers, sometimes known as the 'bookies'. Their odds show how likely each horse is to win.
The Track
Welcome to the track! There are two main forms of racing in Britain, flat racing and jump racing.
The Race
It's time for the race! Get ready to hear the hooves before you see the horses.
After The Race
After celebrating the champion with a quick trip to the winner's enclosure, get down to business and plan your next trip to the races . Everyone is welcome in British Racing!
Ready For More?
If you have enjoyed immersing yourself into our beginner's guide to racing, why not take the next step and find out more about the sport, including how to prepare yourself for a fun day out at the races?
Day In The Life Of A Racehorse
Go behind the scenes with Harry Clark and Kevin Blake to discover what really forms a day in the life of a racehorse, including their training and routines.
Welcome to HorsePWR
The facts matter. Why? Because we understand our responsibility for our horses.
Find out more about the high welfare and safety standards that underpin British racing.
More From Great British Racing
Billy Loughnane – Racing’s Blazing Talent
Billy Loughnane – Racing’s Blazing Talent Racing’s blazing talent, Billy Loughnane is confirmed as the 2026 Champion Flat Jockey, with 159 wins to his name and counting. The 20-year-old is the youngest...
Jim Crowley Visits Old Friend Baaeed
Jim Crowley Visits Old Friend Baaeed Few horses leave such a lasting impression, and for Jim Crowley, Baaeed will always hold a special place in his career. In this video, Jim heads...
From Billy The Kid to Billy The Champion
A young man with an infectious smile and enthusiasm, Billy Loughnane hails from a family that is entrenched in racing. Ever since he took his first steps into professional race riding as...
