* Thoroughbreds are the primary breed used for racing.
* Races are typically held on oval dirt tracks or synthetic surfaces.
* Jockeys wear brightly colored silks to represent their owners.
* Races are usually between 1 and 2 miles long.
* Horses are typically retired around age 5 or 6.
Horse racing in the past:
* Quarter Horses were also commonly used for racing, especially in the United States.
* Many races were held on natural surfaces, such as grass or sand.
* Jockeys often wore plain clothing or simple colors.
* Races were often longer, some even exceeding 3 miles.
* Horses were often raced until they were much older, sometimes into their teens.