Tech Savvy Updates Influencing Horse Racing
Technology has played a role in the growth enjoyed by sectors around the world throughout modern history, and that is no different in horse racing.
The sport is one of the most-watched across the globe, with fans even attending to major events in their thousands to watch races such as the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup in-person.
Unlike many other sports, racing has needed no second introduction to implement technology, and it has been able to do that seamlessly, which has enhanced the experience of all those within the sport.
But, what are some of the notable updates that tech has played an important role in within the sport?
Enhanced Track Safety
Tech has played an important role in horse welfare across the world, with many leading courses across the world using technology to ensure that the ground is suitable for horses.
Innovative surfaces have played a significant role in the safety within the sport, with some courses opting for a synthetic surface as opposed to dirt tracks due to safety concerns.
Consistently racing on safer surfaces means that horses reduce the risk of injury, which therefore enables them to enjoy a longer and more enjoyable life.
State of the art surfaces are also able to combat and deal with more extreme weather conditions, meaning that they remain fair for racing throughout a year. Maintaining the integrity of the sport while also maintaining horse welfare is key for racing.
Hygiene at Track
The COVID-19 pandemic put companies around the world on alert when it comes to the hygiene measures in place, and racecourses were no different.
Fortunately, racing was able to move with the times quickly, which ensured racetracks were among the safest places to visit when COVID-19 measures were lifted. This was none more evident than at Churchill Downs ahead of the first Kentucky Derby following the measures being lifted.
Organizers at the track used drone technology to ensure that all areas were disinfected throughout the day, ensuring that all areas were safe for fans, owners, and trainers.
The revolutionary drone technology remains a key part for many racecourses across the world today to ensure that all visitors are able to feel as safe as possible when they walk through the gates for a day at the races.
Tech in Training
Some of the biggest advancements in horse racing via technology have aided trainers to get the very best out of their horses. Trainers are now able to call upon new pieces of tech to fine tune their horses and ensure that they are at healthy levels to compete on track.
Pieces of tech can be worn by horses, which will measure heart rates and blood levels while they are in active competition. There are also wearables for horses that can measure stride patterns, ensuring that trainers are able to make more tailored training programs for the horses within their care.
At the heart of this tech has been horse welfare, as the data collected can easily give trainers the information required to know whether their runners are at the top of their game. It is also gives information to those closest to the horse whether something may be amiss.
It quickly gives trainers the information required to notice any lingering issues that can’t be seen from the naked eye. This could have a profound impact on a horse, as lingering issues could be picked up quickly and addressed before they become more serious problems further down the line.
Live Streaming
Viewer experience when watching horse racing has also never been better than it is in this modern day. Fans of the sport can now watch racing from around the world in high-quality video, whether that be with an online sportsbook or on their television screens.
This has had a huge impact on the sport overall, as fans that may have typically just racing in their own country have now had their eyes opened to the sport overseas. Many fans have since used their love for newfound racing overseas as travel opportunities to learn more about the sport and its history in new countries.
Live streaming options have been a prominent feature in the world of betting in recent history, and it enables bettors to make in-pay wagers on races across the globe. Check here some more information: twinspires.com/betting-guides/what-do-horse-racing-odds-mean/
Viewership of racing is only increasing in this modern day, and the technology is aiding the process further.
Drones are used to stream video from above the field in some of the world’s biggest races, which can give the viewer a new insight into how a race is developing. Meanwhile, jockeys often wear cameras in races nowadays, meaning that viewers can get a first-hand experience of what it is like to be involved in some of the most iconic races on the calendar.
