Who Runs the Track?
September 15, 2008
Go behind the scenes at the racetrack.
A racetrack is a business and is managed as such. Because of the pari-mutuel wagering system set up at all tracks, the track has no interest or stake in the outcome of a race. It is solely a venue to allow people to bet against each other on the horses. When bettors put money down on a race, the track takes a slice of the total money wagered, usually about 20 percent. The remaining 80 percent is returned to bettors in the form of winnings. This percentage is much higher than those of state lotteries, which often remove 50 percent of the total money bet.
Races are regulated by stewards, who are officials hired by the track or the state racing commission to objectively view races and make sure no fouls are committed.
Get AQHA’s FREE report: Horse Handicapping 101.
How do people become stewards?
Most racing stewards get their education from the University of Louisville or the University of Arizona, both of which have racing officials accreditation programs sponsored by AQHA. The programs consist of 60 hours of educational seminars, a five-section exam and a required amount of experience in the racing industry. After graduating from the program, stewards must go through periodic testing and training to stay up to date.
Click here to learn more about the racing officials accreditation program.
Learn how to develop a simple horse betting system. Get AQHA’s FREE report: Horse Handicapping 101.
Comments
Add a Comment