Skip to main content Skip to site footer
Racing Explained

The going is a term that you will hear a lot in racing.

 

It is a description of the conditions underfoot on the course and it is important because it can affect a horse’s performance. The more moisture in the ground, the softer or slower the going. The drier the ground, the firmer or faster the going becomes.

In British racing going varies from : Heavy – Soft – Good to Soft – Good – Good to Firm – Firm.

 

Each of these terms may be combined to provide a more accurate description: Soft (Good to Soft in places), Soft (Heavy in places) etc.

 

The going report may also provide additional information such as ‘watering’. This is when the Clerk of the Course decides to water the course to make the going softer.

 

Horses, like humans, can prefer a softer or firmer ground. You may hear people talking about horses acting on the ground or acting on the going.

You might also like

Racing Explained

Racing Explained

A comprehensive guide to horseracing and a day at the races. Everything you need to know about horse racing, jockeys, betting, flat races, jump racing, how to spot a great horse and so much more.

Flat Racing

Flat Racing

Find out more about the races, rules and regulations in the lucrative sport of Flat racing.

What is a classic?

What is a classic?

The Classics are the crown jewels of British Flat racing; five races that are considered the ultimate test of a generation of horses.

Glossary

Glossary

Gain an understanding of racing terms here.

View More

Cookie Policy

We use “cookies” to help enhance your experience and improve the functionality of our website. You can find out more in our cookie policy. We also serve cookies, some with chocolate chips, on our racecourses.

Loading