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Thoroughbred Terminology

A B C D E F G H I J L M O P Q R S T V W

Tack

The saddle and other equipment worn by a horse during racing or exercise.

Tattoo

An indelible mark on the inside of the upper lip of the horse used for identification purposes.

Thoroughbred

Breed of horse that races at Keeneland. Developed in England in the 17th century, Thoroughbreds are noted for their tremendous speed and athleticism while racing long distances.

Totalisator

An intricate piece of electronic equipment which records each wager in each betting pool as the pari-mutuel ticket is sold by a manually operated vending machine. This equipment calculates the odds on each horse, according to the amount wagered at given intervals.

Tote Board

Display board in the infield of a racetrack that electronically posts data essential to the racing fan and bettor, including approximate odds, total amount bet in each pool (on some boards), track condition, post time, time of day, result of race, official sign or inquiry or objection sign if a foul is claimed, running time and payoff prices after the race is declared official.

Track conditions

Dirt tracks are listed as fast, good, muddy, sloppy and frozen. At Keeneland, the Polytrack main track is always listed as fast. Turf courses are listed as hard, firm, soft, yielding and heavy.

Trifecta

A wager that involves picking the first three finishers in a race in exact order. Called a "triactor" in Canada and a "triple" in some parts of the U.S.

Triple Crown

Refers to the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes.