What’s the difference between thoroughbred and standardbred horses?

Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses are two different breeds of horses that are commonly used for racing. Here are some of the key differences between the two breeds:

• Breeding: Thoroughbred horses are bred for speed and agility in flat racing, while Standardbred horses are bred for their ability to trot or pace in harness racing.
• Body type: Thoroughbreds are typically taller and leaner with longer legs than Standardbreds. Standardbreds have a more muscular build with a lower center of gravity, which allows them to trot or pace at high speeds while pulling a sulky.
• Racing style: Thoroughbred horses run in a gallop or running gait, while Standardbred horses trot or pace while pulling a sulky. This means that Standardbred races are typically slower but more tactical, as the driver must strategically pace the horse to maintain speed and conserve energy.
• Racing distances: Thoroughbred races are usually run at distances between 5 and 12 furlongs (about 1 to 2.4 kilometers), while Standardbred races are typically run at distances between 1 and 2 miles (about 1.6 to 3.2 kilometers).
• Racing tracks: Thoroughbred races are run on turf or dirt tracks, while Standardbred races are run on special tracks with a sandy surface to accommodate the sulky.