Introduction to Australian Harness Racing
Harness racing is a unique and popular form of horse racing in Australia, and throughout certain countries around the world. In Australia, harness racing is one of three different codes of racing (along with thoroughbreds and greyhounds) and while public interest isn’t as high as thoroughbred racing, it’s extremely popular among punters.
In Australia, one of the major attractions of harness racing is that meetings are commonly staged at night time, this for several reasons. Night meetings allow harness racing to avoid competing with thoroughbred racing, and also most venues are fitted with floodlights which add to the atmosphere.
When betting on harness racing, many punters believe the favourite in each race is more likely to win than in the other codes of racing. This is due to the fact that harness racing horses, known as standardbreds, are a stronger, more versatile and not as temperamental as thoroughbreds, meaning their form and durability tends to be more consistent.
There are plenty of carnivals and major attraction on the Australian harness racing calendar including the highly popular Inter Dominion Carnival, the Miracle Mile, Victorian Derby, Hunter Cup, the Grand Circuit, as well as many other major country race meetings held throughout the year.
By visiting this page, you have found the most the most comprehensive racing site on the internet with a wealth of information to get you on your way. Find below some frequently asked questions on harness racing, as well as information on all the major events and much more. Keep checking back regularly as we will update our service constantly!
Major Attractions on the Harness Racing Calendar
Below is a list of some of the major attractions on the harness racing calendar. By clicking any of the race titles, you can view a detailed analysis of that event as well as an honour roll for each race. Also, be sure to comeback as the event draws closure as we will rate the main contenders in each race provided with live odds:
Frequently Asked Questions of Harness Racing:
What is Harness Racing?
Harness racing is a form of horse racing where the horses involved race in a specified gait. These horses pull a two wheeled cart (also know as sulkies) which carries the driver. Generally the race begins with the horses using a mobile start, but sometimes they begin with a standing start.
What is so Popular about Harness Racing?
The reason why harness racings popular is because it is such an exciting and unique form of racing. The major attraction of harness racing is the night meetings which usually attract good crowds and the floodlights produce an excellent atmosphere. Whilst punters enjoy betting on harness racing as they believe the favourite is more likely to win than other forms of racing.
What Types of Horses Compete in Harness Racing?
The horses involved in harness racing are called standardbreds, which are specially trained and bred. Standardbreds differ to thoroughbreds due to the fact they are slightly smaller, but with heavier bones, a larger body, shorter legs, a more robust build and greater endurance.
Whats the Difference between a Pacer and a Trotter?
In Australia, standardbreds compete in either a pacing gait or a trotting gait, in other words – Pacers and Trotters. These terms mean that standardbreds that have a pacing gait move both legs on the same side forward in unison and then follows suit with both legs on the other side. Whereas standardbreds that have a trotting gait have a diagonal gate, meaning its left front and right rear legs move forward simultaneously and then the right front and left rear legs follow together.
How are Horses Handicapped in Harness Racing?
In harness racing, horses are handicapped under the National Handicapping System which applies to all states in Australia (except Western Australia). Under this system, a horse is penalized each time it has a win, with some concessions for 2 and 3 year old horses.
What are the Major Races on the Harness Calendar?
As per the links above, some of the major attractions include the Inter Dominion Carnival, regarded as the most popular harness race in Australasia and is one of the richest in the world. Other highly popular events include the Miracle Mile, Victorian Derby, Hunter Cup, Grand Circuit, and a number of country race meetings. Find race details and analysis on the races mentioned here at Free Bet Info.
