Standardbred harness racing is a type of horse race in which Standardbred horses compete at a specific gait—either a trot or a pace—while pulling a two-wheeled cart known as a sulky, where the driver sits. Unlike Thoroughbred racing, where jockeys ride directly on the horse’s back, harness racing is defined by this unique setup and style of movement.
Key Characteristics
- Breed: Only Standardbred horses are used in harness racing. They are known for their calm temperament and endurance.
- Gaits: There are two types of races:
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- Trotters move their legs in diagonal pairs (right front and left hind together).
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- Pacers move their legs laterally (right front and right hind together).
- Equipment: Horses pull a sulky—a lightweight cart with large wheels—while wearing harness gear, not saddles.
Race Setup
Harness races typically take place on oval dirt tracks ranging from a half-mile to one mile in length. Races are usually one mile long, and the horses start from a moving gate rather than from a standstill. Drivers are responsible for maintaining the correct gait throughout the race. If a horse breaks stride (e.g., begins to gallop), it must return to the correct gait or risk disqualification.
Where It’s Popular
Standardbred harness racing is especially popular in:
- The United States and Canada (especially states like New York, New Jersey, and Ohio)
- Australia and New Zealand
- Parts of Europe, including France and Sweden
In the U.S., The Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky, is one of the premier destinations for harness racing and home to elite events featuring the sport’s top trotters and pacers.
To see how recent Standardbred races have played out, check out our Red Mile Racing Results.
Claiming and Purse Structure
Like other types of horse racing, harness races may include claiming races, where horses are available for purchase at a set price. Purse sizes vary based on the race’s level and prestige, with major events like the Hambletonian Stakes offering significant prize money.
Standardbred harness racing combines skill, strategy, and unique horse training. With its distinct format and dedicated fanbase, it remains a staple of the global horse racing scene.
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