Starting a horse race is an exciting moment for many. It is the moment when the anticipation builds and the crowd is focused on the track and the horses. There is an entire process that is followed to ensure that the race starts without any issues. From the time the horses enter the track to the moment when the starting gates open, there are many steps and commands that are given. The most important part of the process is the command given to start the race, so what do they say to start a horse race?
Commands Given to Start a Horse Race
The most common command given to start a horse race is “Riders up!” This is the command given to the jockeys to get them ready to ride the horses. The command is usually followed by a bell or horn sound, which signals the jockeys to mount their horses. Once the jockeys are in the saddle and ready to ride, the starter will give them the “Go!” command. The jockeys respond to this command by quickly taking off and the race begins.
When the Horses Enter the Gate
Once the horses enter the gate, the starter will give them the command “Load!” This command is given to the gate crew to ensure that all the horses are loaded into their respective starting gates. Once all the horses are loaded and the gate crew is ready, the starter will give the command “Set!” This command is given to the gate crew to ensure that all the starting gates are locked in place and that the horses are ready to race.
The Starter’s Command to Begin the Race
Once the starting gates are locked in place and the horses are ready to race, the starter will give the command “They’re off!” This is the moment when the starter signals to the jockeys to start their horses and the race begins. This command is usually accompanied by a bell or horn sound, which signals the jockeys to begin the race.
Additional Commands Used in Horse Racing
In addition to the commands used to start a horse race, there are also several commands used throughout the race. These commands are used to help the jockeys stay on track and keep the race organized. Some of these commands include:
- Move it! – used to signal the jockeys to move their horses to the start line
- Hold your positions! – used to signal the jockeys to stay in their respective lanes
- Take the turn! – used to signal the jockeys to take the turn
- Shift your horses! – used to signal the jockeys to shift their horses to the outside lane
- Wrap it up! – used to signal the jockeys to wrap up the race
Signals Used to Start a Horse Race
In addition to the commands used to start a horse race, there are also several signals that are used. These signals are used to ensure that all the jockeys are aware that the race is about to begin. The most common signals used to start a horse race are the bell or horn sound, the flashing lights, and the flag.
Bell or Horn Sound
The bell or horn sound is the most common signal used to start a horse race. This sound is usually accompanied by the “Go!” command and signals the jockeys to begin the race.
Flashing Lights
The flashing lights are another signal used to start a horse race. This signal usually comes after the bell or horn sound and signals the jockeys to begin the race.
Flag
The flag is the final signal used to start a horse race. This signal is usually accompanied by the “Go!” command and signals the jockeys to begin the race.
Conclusion
Starting a horse race is an exciting process that requires the coordination of many different people. From the time the horses enter the track to the moment when the starting gates open, there are many steps and commands that are given. The most important part of the process is the command given to start the race. The most common command given to start a horse race is “Riders up!” followed by a bell or horn sound. This is usually followed by the command “Go!” and the various signals used to start the race.
Overall, starting a horse race is an exciting and thrilling moment for many. It requires the coordination of many different people and commands, but when it all comes together it can be a truly incredible experience.