When it comes to racing horses, there are a lot of things to consider – from the breed and bloodlines to the training and diet. But one detail that can often be overlooked is the horse’s name. A horse’s name is an important part of its identity and can often reflect its heritage and accomplishments. So, how are racing horses names chosen?
Organizations
Different organizations have different rules when it comes to how a horse can be named. The Jockey Club is the largest and most well-known organization that regulates the naming of racehorses. The Jockey Club has a long list of rules for horse names, including:
- A name can be up to 18 characters long, including spaces.
- A name cannot be the same as or similar to an existing registered name.
- A name must not be offensive, profane, or vulgar.
- A name must not be trademarked, copyrighted, or otherwise protected by law.
In addition to the Jockey Club, there are other organizations that have rules for horse names. For example, the British Horseracing Authority has a list of rules that must be followed, including the following:
- A name cannot be longer than 18 characters.
- A name cannot be the same as, or similar to, an existing registered name.
- A name must not be offensive, profane, or vulgar.
- A name must not be trademarked, copyrighted, or otherwise protected by law.
Who Picks the Name?
The person who is responsible for picking a horse’s name can vary depending on the situation. In some cases, the owner or breeder of the horse may be the one to pick the name. In other cases, the trainer or stable may be the one who picks the name.
In some cases, the horse’s name may be chosen through a competition. For example, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) hosts an annual naming contest. The contest is open to all members of TOBA and allows them to submit potential names for a chance to win a prize.
Common Naming Themes
There are many different themes that are commonly used when naming racehorses. Some of the most popular themes include:
- Names of famous people or places, such as Secretariat or Seabiscuit.
- Names that reflect the horse’s bloodline or color, such as Dartmoor or Chestnut Hill.
- Names that reflect the horse’s accomplishments, such as Triple Crown or Derby Winner.
- Names that reflect the horse’s personality, such as Lively Lad or Sassy Sally.
Unique and Creative Names
Although there are some common naming themes, some owners and breeders like to get creative when naming their horses. Some owners and breeders have come up with some truly unique and creative names for their horses, such as The Great Whinnying, Mud Flaps, and Souffle On The Beach.
Popular Names
There are certain names that have become popular in the racing world. Some of the most popular names include Secretariat, Seabiscuit, Man o’ War, and American Pharoah.
Name Changes
Sometimes a horse’s name may need to be changed after it is registered with the Jockey Club. This is usually done if the horse is sold to a new owner or if the horse changes owners during its racing career.
Reasons for Name Changes
There are several reasons why a horse may need to have its name changed. Some of the most common reasons include:
- The horse has been sold to a new owner.
- The horse’s owner wants to change the name for marketing purposes.
- The horse’s name is too similar to an existing registered name.
- The horse’s name is offensive, profane, or vulgar.
Conclusion
When it comes to naming racehorses, the process can be complex and there are a lot of rules that need to be followed. Different organizations have different rules for naming horses, and the person responsible for picking the name can vary. There are also some common naming themes and certain names that have become popular in the racing world. Finally, a horse’s name may need to be changed for various reasons.
Overall, the process of naming racehorses is an important part of the horse racing industry, and it is something that should be taken seriously.