We take a look at some racing terms which get thrown around quite a lot amongst punters with some not in the know unable to understand what people are talking about. Here are a few terms to help you out.
Sick beat
A good song or sometimes described as a fat track. “Who played this sick beat?”
Racing term: A heavily backed commodity or favorite beaten in extraordinary or unusual circumstances. “The favorite at the Valley copped a sick beat last night.”
Hoop
A circular band of metal, wood, or similar material. “Jump through the hoop.”
Racing term: A jockey. “Robert Thompson is a bloody good hoop.”
Rough
Having an uneven or irregular surface; not smooth or level. “The builder done a rough job on me kitchen bench.”
Racing term: The outsider in the race, given not much chance of winning. “I got a tip for the 12 in the next at Wangaratta, it’s a bit rough but they reckon it’ll run alright.”
Spell
Write or name the letters that form (a word) in correct sequence. “That’s the last time I’m taking a tip off him, the bloke couldn’t even spell his own name.”
Racing term: A horse that had had a break from racing or training for an extended period of time. “Yeah mate she’ll run around at Beaudesert then we’ll put her out for a spell.”
Blinkers
A vehicle indicator or other device that gives out an intermittent light. “Put your ******* blinkers on you **** *** **** Jesus Christ!”
Racing term: A piece of gear placed on the head. It is a hood that fits over the head of the horse with cups around the eyes to restrict the peripheral vision of the horse. The addition of blinkers to a horse gear is considered a significant adjustment that can alter their performance. “Blinkers on next start, he’ll go well.”
House
A building for human habitation, especially one that consists of a ground floor and one or more upper storeys.
Racing term: A very large bet, or one in which the outcome could severely affect the punter. “Pakistan Star is due for a win, I’ll have the house on him next start.”