New to harness racing? Here’s what you need to know

Drivers are the fearless athletes behind the reins, guiding these powerful horses around the track from their sulkies. They’re like the F1 drivers of the racing world, making split-second decisions that can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

A driver has to know their horse inside and out—its strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. During a race, they’re constantly reading the field, adjusting tactics, and timing their moves to perfection. It’s all about strategy and nerves of steel! And, just like in car racing, the driver’s skill can often turn an underdog horse into a winner with the right strategy and guidance.

Before a horse even steps onto the track, it’s the trainer who has put in hours of work to get it race-ready. Trainers condition the horses, not just physically but mentally. They design training routines, choose the right equipment, and make decisions on when a horse is ready to compete.

They’re like the coaches of the team, fine-tuning their athletes so they’re in peak condition for race day. Whether it’s focusing on building stamina or keeping a horse calm and focused, trainers play a crucial role in shaping champions.

These are the unsung heroes of harness racing. Stablehands (also known as strappers) are the hands-on caretakers who make sure the horses are happy, healthy, and looking sharp. They feed, groom, and care for the horses daily—often forming close bonds with them.

On race day, strappers make sure the horses are prepped, geared up, and looking race-ready. They’re also there at the end to cool them down, take care of any post-race care, and celebrate (or commiserate) with their four-legged friends. Without them, the whole operation simply wouldn’t run.

The owners are the ones who believe in the horse’s potential and make the dream of racing possible. Whether they’re big-time investors with a stable full of horses or part of a local syndicate sharing ownership with a group of friends, owners are the heart and soul of harness racing.

For many, owning a racehorse isn’t just about the prize money (though that’s nice, too!)—it’s about the thrill of the race, the excitement of being part of a winning team, and the connection to their horse. Plus, there’s nothing quite like seeing your horse cross the finish line first!