Barrier in Australian horse racing is the starting gate from which each horse begins the race. It is typically a metal frame with several compartments, with each horse assigned a specific compartment before the race commences. The barrier is opened when the race begins, allowing the horses to run the length of the track.
History of Barrier
The concept of the barrier has been around for centuries, but it was not until the mid-19th century that the first mechanical barrier was developed. The first device was invented by Australian trainer, George S. Brown, who patented the design in 1859. The design was revolutionary and soon spread to other countries, becoming a standard feature at most racecourses.
Advantage of Using Barrier
Barriers are widely used in Australia for a number of reasons. Firstly, they provide a fair start for each horse, ensuring that no horse is disadvantaged by a slow start. Secondly, barriers are an effective way of controlling the speed of the race, as each horse must wait for the barrier to open before beginning their race. Finally, the barrier system ensures that no horse has an unfair advantage due to their position at the start of the race.
Different Types of Barrier
There are several types of barriers used in Australian horse racing, each of which has its own specific purpose. The most common type is the starting stalls, which are the most familiar to racegoers. The mobile barrier is designed to move along the track, allowing the horses to remain in their assigned compartments until the appropriate time. The starting tapes are used to release the horses at the same time, while the starting gates are designed to drop when the starter gives the signal.
Barrier Procedures
Prior to a race, the barrier operator will inspect the starting gates and ensure that they are in good working order. The horses will then be loaded into their compartments and the barrier operator will give the signal for the race to begin. Once the starter has given the signal, the barrier operator will open the gates and the horses will begin the race.
Barrier Draw
The barrier draw is an important part of the race, as it determines the position of each horse at the start of the race. The barrier draw is conducted a few days before the race and is based on a random selection process. This ensures that each horse has an equal chance of winning, regardless of their position at the starting line.
Barrier Trials
Barrier trials are a common feature of Australian horse racing and are conducted to assess the performance of a horse at the starting gate. During these trials, the horse is loaded into the starting gate and the barrier operator will open the gate at the appropriate time. The performance of the horse is then assessed and the results are used to determine the horse’s starting position in the race.
Barrier Sponsorships
Barrier sponsorships are an important part of Australian horse racing, as they help to promote the sport and provide a source of income for the racecourse. Barrier sponsorships are typically offered by companies or individuals who wish to have their name or logo associated with the race. The sponsor’s logo will be prominently displayed on the barrier and the sponsor will receive a share of the prize money for each race.
Barrier Stewards
The role of the barrier stewards is to ensure that the barrier is operated correctly and that the horses are loaded into their compartments in the correct order. They will also ensure that the barrier is opened at the appropriate time and that the horses are not disadvantaged by a slow start.
Conclusion
The barrier is an essential part of Australian horse racing and is essential for ensuring a fair race. The barrier ensures that no horse has an unfair advantage due to their position at the start of the race, while the barrier draw ensures that each horse has an equal chance of success. Finally, barrier sponsorships are important for the promotion of the sport and provide a source of income for the racecourse.
Barrier is an integral part of Australian horse racing and has been used for centuries to ensure that each horse has a fair start. Different types of barriers are used, depending on the race, and the barrier draw is used to determine the position of each horse at the start of the race. Barrier stewards also ensure that the barrier is operated correctly and that the horses are loaded into their compartments in the correct order. Finally, barrier sponsorships are important for the promotion of the sport and provide a source of income for the racecourse.