Racefans gather around the paddock to observe the horses before they head to their next race.
Preparing for the Races

What is the paddock?

Posted Friday, June 6th, 2008
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The paddock is the “walking circle” behind the grandstands around which the Thoroughbreds are led before they head to the track. This is your chance to inspect the horse and its jockey up close before the race. If you haven't placed your bet yet, this will help you decide. Everyone has his own strategy.

Here some ideas to help you create yours:

• Does the horse appear cool, calm and collected?
• Does the horse appear sharp, on his/her toes?
• Does the horse lack energy or have too much?
• Does the jockey look confident?
• A horse with a bowed neck is a happy horse.
• Check the jockeys' colors (silks) so you can follow them easily in the race.
• Add your own tell-tale signs.


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