Understanding Horse Racing Tactics: The 50-Meter Push

Question
hello sir. when the start is given. our jockeys push for 50metres and then waiting for response. why do they push for only 50metres? for what they wait?

Answer
HI I WOULD THINK TO GET POSITION IN THE RACE.  SOME HORSE NEED TO GET A POSITION TILL THEY ARE READY TO MAKE THEIR MOVE.OTHER HORSES WILL NOT RUN TILL THE END OF THE RACE. SOME ARE FRONT RUNNERS AND NEED TO MAKE THE LEAD FROM THE START TO FINISH THE RACE.  THANKS ED HESS