across the board
A bet on a horse to win, place and show. If the horse wins, the player collects three ways; if second, two ways; and if third, one way, losing the win and place bets. Actually three wagers.
action
1) A horse’s manner of moving. 2) A term meaning wagering, for example, “The horse took a lot of action.”
added weight
A horse carrying more weight than the conditions of the race require, usually because the jockey exceeds the stated limit.
airing
Not running at best speed in a race.
all out
When a horse extends itself to the utmost.
allowances
Reductions in weights to be carried, allowed because of the conditions of the race or because an apprentice jockey is on a horse. Also, a weight reduction female horses are entitled to when racing against males, or that three-year-olds receive against older horses.
also-eligible
A horse officially entered for a race, but not permitted to start unless the field is reduced by scratches below a specified number.
apprentice
Rider who has not ridden a certain number of winners within a specified period of time. Also known as a “bug,” from the asterisk used to denote the weight allowance such riders receive.
apprentice allowance
Weight concession given to an apprentice rider: usually 10 pounds until the fifth winner, seven pounds until the 35th winner and five pounds for one calendar year from the 35th winner. More rarely, a three-pound allowance is allowed to a rider under contract to a specific stable/owner for two years from his/her first win. This rule varies from state to state. Apprentices do not receive an allowance when riding in a stakes race. All jockeys going from track to track must have a receipt from the clerk of scales from their track verifying the jockeys’ most recent total number of wins. Also known as a “bug,” from the asterisk used to denote the weight allowance.
