Definition of different race types

[Sheerluck Holmes]

Hey guys, Excuse my ignorance but just wondering if you could help describe, or point me to somewhere where the different race types are described. Obviously, Handicaps are self explanatory but more wondering about claimers, maidens, novices etc. Thanks. :$

[bigs]

Re: Definition of different race types I've seen summary explanations only, of course detail would be appreciated! What I can say (and mind my ignorance and sorry for any mistake) and quoting Maiden Race - A race for non-winners. Novice - A horse in the early stages of its career. An inexperienced horseman. A category for horse or rider who has not yet achieved a number of successes. Claiming Race - A race in which the horses are entered subject to claim for a specified price. Each horse entered is eligible to be purchased at a set price. Claims must be made before the race and only by licensed owners or their agents who have a horse registered to race at that meeting or who have received a claim certificate from the stewards. Stakes race - A race for which the owner usually must pay a fee to run a horse. Some stakes races are by invitation and require no payment or fee. SteepleChase - A race in which horses are required to jump over a series of obstacles on the course. Also known as a 'Chase'.