Horse racing is one of the oldest and most well-known sports in the world, and the United States is no exception. Millions of people across the country tune in to watch the biggest horse races each year. But, what exactly does legal horse racing in the USA entail? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of legal horse racing in the USA in detail.
The Role of the States –
America’s horse racing culture and events are far different from the ones that are conducted worldwide & so, the rules are different as well. When it comes to horse racing, the laws and regulations vary from state to state. The federal government has very little involvement in horse racing, leaving most of the responsibility up to the individual states. Each state has its own racing commission that regulates the industry, including licensing, drug testing, and safety standards.
Types of Horse Races in the USA –
There exist 2 types of horse races in the USA, one is flat racing and the other is harness racing. Flat racing involves horses running on a straight or oval track, with jockeys riding on their backs. Harness racing involves horses pulling a 2-wheeled cart, called a sulky, with a driver controlling the reins.
Betting on Horse Racing in the USA –
One of the biggest draws of legal horse racing in the USA is the opportunity to bet on the races. Horse racing is one of the only forms of sports betting that is legal in most states, thanks to a federal law that exempts horse racing from being classified as gambling. However, the exact rules and regulations surrounding betting on horse racing vary from one state to the other.
Safety Regulations for Horse Racing in the USA –
Racing commissions set strict regulations to make sure that both the horses and jockeys are kept safe throughout the race. Also, the use of performance-enhancing drugs is strictly prohibited and drug testing is conducted regularly.
Legal horse racing in the USA is a highly-regulated industry that is completely governed by state racing commissions. So, safety is a top priority with strict regulations in place to protect the horses and jockeys. Therefore, keeping a clear legal landscape of horse racing in the US will bring much more profits to your bets without being stuck in any legal formalities or breaking any law.