How Has Technology Continued To Evolve In Horse Racing?
(SPORTS TECHNOLOGY)
Technology has played a significant role in the advancement of sports around the world, and that has been no different in horse racing. The sport has been a common way to unwind for sports fans throughout history and is as popular in this modern era as it has ever been.
The average age of those attending the horse racing has dropped, with a day at the races now being particularly common for those aged between 18 and 24.
However, it has also been able to attract younger audiences, with some of the most popular courses around the world offering deals on families attending meetings. Yet, the evolution of technology in the sport has played the biggest role for its continued success into 2021 and beyond.
Medical
One of the biggest concerns for everybody in the horse racing industry is the safety of the horses that are racing. It is the primary focus when looking to improve the sport, and medical breakthroughs have ensured that there are now fewer injuries than ever before.
However, like all sports, injuries are a part of the sport, and technology has played a huge role in helping horses get back on the track after picking up injuries that could have once been career-ending.
Horses in the sport now have some of the finest equipment to help, with x-rays and MRIs, which were typically only used for humans, now being used on horses to help them recover.
As well as this, training methods to ensure that horses are at the top of their game come race day have been advanced due to the part played by technology in the sport.
The technology that the leading trainers are able to call on to help their horses is now on par with the sports science that you can expect to find in any of the leading sports around the world.
Raceday Technology
The sport has evolved over the last 20 years with the introduction of technology playing a huge role on jockeys and the safety of horses on the track. Virtual reality has been a big part of the education of jockeys, as they can now use the technology to get the experience of riding during one of the biggest races of the season.
While it isn’t the same as riding in a race, the technology will give jockeys a better understanding of the tactics that they can use during the races. As well as this, technology has played a role in safeguarding tracks to ensure the safety of the horses that are running.
It has ensured that the courses have been altered, with changes made to make sure that the tracks aren’t too difficult for the horses that are running. The enhanced video has also played a role in enforcing the whip changes that have been implemented, with bans handed out immediately after races.
The most apparent introduction that can be seen through technology is the photo finish, which is often needed for the tightest races.
No longer will there be an extended period of time to make a final decision, as the HD quality of offer will ensure that decisions will be made within minutes of the race finishing.
How Will Technology Continue To Evolve?
Technology is constantly improving, and there is no secret that the sport will continue to adapt with the changes that are necessary.
One of the biggest talking points so far this season in the United Kingdom has been the fact that fences or hurdles have needed to be missed due to low sun, and this has been something that experts have called for technology to assist the sport with.
The mobile betting industry is also constantly evolving, and that will be another sector that will continue to thrive for as long as horse racing maintains its popularity.
Here you have it, some reasons on why technology is important for horse racing. Also, if you enjoy the sport, don’t forget to head on to TwinSpires to place your bets.
Author: Alex Dudley
Alex has travelled the world covering major sporting events for various websites and publications. He has attended football European Championships, Rugby League and Union World Cups, and the Paralympics. Along with this Alex has covered big wrestling, horse racing and boxing events.
His work can be found in the Express & Star, WWE Kids Magazine, or online with the Football Faithful, and The Local. Alex also works closely with betting companies such as Betfair, Coral and Betway to produce compelling sports content for their exclusive blogs.
