flat race

flat race

A horse and jockey compete in a flat race on a sunny day.

Definition

Noun: A "flat race" is a type of horse race run on a level, obstacle-free track, without jumps or hurdles. It contrasts with steeplechase or hurdle races, which include barriers.

Usage Examples
  • (A horse race on a level track without obstacles.)
  • (The sport of racing horses on flat ground.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Flat race meeting": an event or series of flat races held at a racetrack.

    • The Royal Ascot is a prestigious flat race meeting in England. (A scheduled gathering of flat horse races.)
  • "Flat race season": the period of the year when flat races are officially held.

    • The flat race season in the UK runs from late spring to early autumn. (The time of year dedicated to flat racing.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Flat racing (n): the sport or practice of racing horses on flat tracks.

    • Flat racing requires horses to have exceptional speed. (The activity of competing in flat races.)
  • Flat racer (n): a horse trained specifically for flat races.

    • This colt is a promising flat racer with several wins. (A horse that competes in flat races.)
Synonyms
  • Level race: a race on a flat, obstacle-free course (less common).
  • Obstacle-free race: a general term for any race without barriers.
Related Idioms
  • Run a flat race: to compete in a flat race; also used metaphorically for a straightforward competition.

    • He decided to run a flat race instead of a hurdle race. (To participate in a flat race.)
  • On the flat: a phrase used in racing contexts to mean on a level track.

    • The horse performs better on the flat than over jumps. (On a flat surface without obstacles.)