A horse race is a contest of speed among horses that are either ridden by jockeys or pulled by sulkies and their drivers. The practice of horse racing is ancient. Numerous cultures have held various forms of it, from Greek and Roman chariot races to Bedouin endurance races across the desert. Modern horse racing traces its roots to Newmarket, a settlement in England that has hosted races since the 12th century.

The sport has benefited from a number of technological advances in recent years. For example, the pari-mutuel betting system was computerized in 1984 and the first televised horse races took place that year as well. In addition, the use of 3D printing technology has enabled the manufacture of casts and splints for injured horses, while thermal imaging cameras, MRI scanners, and endoscopes have made it possible to diagnose health problems with great accuracy.

However, despite these improvements, horse racing remains dangerous for both horses and their jockeys. Horses are bred to be fast and must run at speeds that can exceed 100 miles per hour, which puts them at risk of serious injuries and breakdowns. Many horses are also forced to start training while their skeletal systems are still developing, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. Furthermore, the use of whips and other devices for motivating horses to race can cause fractured leg bones and broken hooves. These injuries often occur when a horse stretches too far or takes a hard turn. Injuries are not uncommon in horse racing, with a high percentage of the equine deaths occurring during the race itself.

Adding to the dangers of the sport are the drugs that are used by trainers and jockeys to enhance the performance of their horses. Although some trainers rely on legal painkillers and anti-inflammatories, many tamper with the drug supply with powerful steroids and other illegal substances that are designed to boost strength, endurance, or stamina. The resulting toxicity can make the horses ill and even cause them to hemorrhage from their lungs during the race.

In order to prevent the occurrence of these drug-related accidents, horse race officials have instituted stricter testing protocols for horses before they compete. Moreover, veterinarians examine the horses for any signs of illness before they are allowed to race, and the jockeys are required to submit urine and saliva samples. If a horse is found to have taken prohibited substances, it will be disqualified.

Besides the obvious physical dangers of racing, horses are subjected to a variety of psychological stresses that can affect their performance. They must be trained in a hurry and live under the constant pressure of being watched by thousands of spectators. Some horses also have to contend with the stress of being forced into a crowded enclosure in which they can become nervous, depressed, or anxious. These factors can lead to behavioral disorders, including excessive trembling, apathy, and unresponsiveness. In some cases, these behavioral problems can even be fatal.