In horse racing, there are two major types – Thoroughbred and Harness. There are a couple of major differences between these two types of racing.
Harness Racing
In harness racing, also known as standard bred racing, a sulky is used. A sulky is a lightweight cart with two wheels that is attached to the horse by use of a harness. This is what gives the race its name. Also, in Harness racing, the horses can trot or pace during the race. Pacing is faster than trotting. In trotting or pacing, there is a risk the horse might start to gallop; if this is the case, the horse must be slowed down in time to not face a DQ (disqualification).
Thoroughbred Racing
In thoroughbred racing, a jockey rides the horse during the race. These horses maintain a run/gallop no matter what surface they are racing on.
Funky Munky Stable silks for thoroughbred racing are bright green and pink making it easy to spot your horse during the race.
Thoroughbred Racing
Contains three types of races: dirt, turf, and synthetic
Distances range from five furlongs up to two miles (A furlong is 1/8 of a mile)
Begin the race in a starting gate
Jockeys must be a specific weight – adjusted by adding weight to the saddle
Choice of jockey silks – bright green and pink
Thoroughbred Ownership
Typical purses range from $20,000 to $100,000
Horses race every three to four weeks (on average)
Greater cost involved when in training at the track
Harness Racing
Dirt/clay racing surface
Distance is approximately one mile
Begin the race behind a motorized gate
Drivers are not under any weight restrictions
Driver always wears the same silks
Harness Ownership
Typical purses range from $10,000 to $30,000
Horses race three to four times per month (on average)