A horse race refers to a competition involving horses or other animals, often with humans. The sport of horse racing is a long-standing, popular one that has evolved over time. The races themselves can be very exciting to watch and are usually highly competitive events. Some people use the term more broadly to refer to any kind of competition that involves close rivalries. The word is also used to describe a particular type of business contest, known as a “horse race” that pits two or more senior executives against each other in a battle for the top job. This style of succession planning is not without its critics, but proponents argue that a well-run horse race can help an organization select a high-performing new leader.
In the early days of the sport, chariot races were popular in Greece, Egypt and Rome. Later, a form of horse racing developed that involved the horses being connected to two-wheeled carts or chariots, with men riding on top of them, called jockeys. This form of horse racing evolved into a sport of formal competition.
Modern horse races are typically held over a course that varies according to the customs of the country in which they are run. The races are conducted over either dirt or grass surfaces. The course length varies, as well. The races that take place over short distances, known as sprints, are generally viewed as tests of speed. The longer races, which are referred to as routes or staying races in Europe, are considered tests of stamina.
When a horse is in the lead, it is referred to as the favorite, while a horse that is behind is the underdog. The winners of the horse races are generally rewarded with trophies or cash prizes, depending on the size and prestige of the event.
The horse race approach is commonly used in large companies to select a new chief executive officer (CEO). Some executives and governance observers are uncomfortable with the concept of an overt competition for the role among several recognized candidates within an established time frame, fearing that the process can disrupt the company’s momentum. However, proponents of the technique point out that a horse race encourages employees to strive to be the best, which can improve overall corporate performance.
The sport of harness racing, in which standardbreds compete to pull their drivers’ carts across the finish line first, is a hidden gem for many American sports fans. The spectacle of these enormous, powerful animals churning through the sand and dust with thunderous force is both impressive and exciting to behold. The sport is growing, as is the popularity of TVG, an all-racing channel included in many cable TV packages that provides a beginners’ glossary for terms like cup stacking and cherry pit spitting.