A Dictionary Of Horse Racing Terms – H

HANDICAP

When horses in a race are allocated different weights to carry, in order that each horse has an equal theoretic chance of winning, it is called a Handicap race.

Similar to the animals in George Orwells books, some horses are more equal than others. Horses vary slightly between races and their form on any given day is somewhat variable, meaning that thankfully, there is usually a clear cut winner in all handicap races.

Horses just like human beings are not always feeling their best.

Handicapping is based on the fact that horses are allowed weight against other horses on a Weight for age basis and according to the distance by which one horse beats another, with consideration being made for the state of the going amongst other factors including the pace of the race.

Weight assessments are roughly based on finishing distances as follows:

From five furlongs to seven furlongs, 3lb per length;
From one mile to eleven furlongs, 2lb per length;
From one and a half miles to 2 miles, one and a half pounds per length;
More than two miles, 1lb. per length;
National Hunt races: 1lb. per length.

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