The name of the game is wagering. Here are some of the wagering terms you might hear at Sam Houston Race Park:
Three equal wagers placed on one horse to win, place and to show.
The odds displayed on the tote board after wagering closes.
A type of wager calling for the selection of winners of two consecutive races, usually the first and second races, prior to the first race.
The art of evaluating horses' past performances to determine the outcome of a race for selecting the best wagering options.
The total amount of money wagered in the pari-mutuel on a race, a program, a meeting, or a year.
The track handicappers' estimate of the probable payoffs for each horse at post time.
Odds that are less than even money ($1 to $1)
The wagering format which allows players to compete against each other ("among ourselves") rather than against the track.
A wagering technique whereby the bettor reinvests the proceeds from a wager in one race into another race or races.
The total amount of money wagered on any one type of wager (win, show, exacta pools, etc.)
The system of computers and electronic components tied to the pari-mutuel ticket issuing machines that calculates the odds to $1 and computes the various winning payoffs.
An electronic board displaying approximate odds, amount wagered, track condition, post time, time of day, results of race, running time and payoff prices.
The betting term in which one horse is selected to finish in a certain position with several other horses in the remaining positions. To make an exotic wager (e.g. exacta or daily double) using a single "key" horse with the balance of the field (in the case of an exacta) or all the horses in the other race (in the case of a daily double).
A race other than claiming for which the racing secretary drafts certain conditions to determine weights.
Rookie jockey who is allowed a reduced weight as they gain experience. Often referred to as a "bug boy".
Race in which horses are entered subject to claim for a specified price.
Races designated as the most prestigious in the United Stated and Canada (Grade I, Grade II, Grade III).
Reviewing the race to check into a possible infraction of the rules.
A race for non winners.
Claim of foul lodged by rider, patrol judge or other official.
Horses going from paddock to starting gate past the stands.
The total prize money awarded in a race, usually among the top five finishers.
Highest class of race, reserved for the best horses. Owners have to pay an entry fee or "stake" for these races.
DIRT TRACK CONDITIONS
A track that is completely dry and at optimal efficiency.
A track that continues to accumulate moisture during or immediately after a heavy rain, which begins to seep into the base. The base is still solid, but the surface water is evident.
A track whose base has been permeated by moisture. Times are somewhat slower, and running tires the horses more.
A track surface that has begun to dry out. The base is still soft, but surface drying is evident. Times are generally slower than normal.
The track's drying out process continues, and some flying dust is evident. Times improve and the track is approaching a Fast condition.
TURF TRACK CONDITIONS
A turf course that is completely dry and at optimal efficiency (equivalent to Fast on a dirt track.)
A track surface with some moisture that creates a softer surface on which the horses run. Many European imports prefer a softer track like this for their optimal performance.
A turf course becomes boggy (spongy) after prolonged rain. Horses' hooves sink in and dig up the course, and times are considerably slower.
EQUIPMENT & MEDICATION
Wrappings used on a horse's legs to protect them from injury.
Metal bar in horse's mouth to which reins are attached by which the horse is guided and controlled.
Eye cups attached to a hood to limit a horse's side vision and prevent distraction.
Piece of equipment placed on the horse's head used by the jockey to steer and control the horse. The bit is part of this equipment.
A horse medication allowed in many race jurisdictions that is used to control inflammation.
Distinctively patterned and colored jacket and cap worn by the jockey to identify the horse's owner.
A piece of equipment placed on a horse's head, similar to a bridle but lacking a bit and reins, used in handling horses around the stable and when not being ridden. A long leather shank is attached to the halter for walking the horse.
A term commonly used for the rider's stirrups.
A horse medication allowed in many race jurisdictions that is used to control bleeding, a condition which occurs when tiny blood vessels in a horse's respiratory system are damaged by exertion.
Equipment used for riding a horse, i.e. saddle, bridle, blinkers, whip, irons, etc.
Strap or cloth bandage used to tie down a horse's tongue to prevent him from swallowing it, or to place the tongue over the bit in a race or workout.