Thoroughbred Horse Racing is often looked at by many as just a sport, but behind the scenes there is a lot more involved. It is a business and one that is taken very seriously by those involved. Just like in any business it often comes down to the bottom line. The bottom line is based on a horse's performance. On the other hand many people get involved for the enjoyment of the sport. In order to make a thoroughbred racehorse perform to it's maximum potential a lot of time, dedication and expertise is needed.  

     Thoroughbred racehorses are categorized by their respective value. The breeding of a horse can greatly affect the value. Well-bred horses cost more and also have potential stud value if they become proven racehorses. The value of a horse therefore dictates the earning potential i.e. a horse that is purchased for $5,000 will run a purse of $6,000, until it shows the potential to compete at a higher level. A horse that costs $100,000 will compete at the stakes level, which means that the purses may range from $100,000 to $200,000. Horses purchased for lesser money and then become proven racehorses increase their value.

     Horses race primarily on a dirt surface but some horses prefer the turf, whereas certain horses run on either surface. Horses race from ages two to age nine. Races are also classified according to the sex of the horses. Fillies and Mares are grouped, while Colts and Geldings are grouped together. However, a filly or mare can compete in a race designated for males.

     The most important year of a racehorse's career is when it races as a three-year-old. During their three-year-old racing career, the horses get to compete only against horses of the same age, while older horses get to compete in the category of four-year-olds and up. All the classic races are offered for three-year-olds only. The Triple Crown, is the most prestigious amongst many others. The Breeders Cup is offered to horses of all ages, with races ranging from $1,000,000 to $4,000,000. To compete in these elite races the horses need to be elgible through the nomination of their Sires. If the Sire is not nominated, the horses can still be nominated at a substantial fee.

Investment
     Horses who place in the first five places receive a percentage of the guaranteed purse. The purse distribution is as follows: First - 55%, Second - 20%, Third - 12%, Forth - 5%, Fifth - 2.5%. There is no entry fee required to run in the races, with the exception of stake races. However, there are jockey fees due for each race and these fees are based on the purse value of each race. Jockey fees range from $40 to $100. Please note that if a horse wins, 10% of the owners purse is distributed to the jockey and 10% of all earnings (First through Fifth place) is distributed to the trainer. These distributions serve as an incentive for both the trainer and jockey to get the very best from each horse when it runs.