PSXV-16 Association of Experience and pre-Race Behavior in Performance Among Racing Quarter Horses

Abstract The annual average cost of maintaining a racehorse will typically outweigh its earning, making it important that the horse performs above average. goal this study was to investigate if age or experience level could be associated with performance. This observed pre-racing Quarter Horses (n = 1,033) behavior during one racing season at Delta Downs racetrack (Vinton, LA). horses were placed into groups based on race (0-2, 3-10, and 11+ total races). Horse pre-race before saddling (BSAD), (SAD), after (ASAD) post-parade (POST) behaviors (calm, ready nervous) identify calm, ready, nervous. types recorded as categorical variables in analyzed using proc FREQ, finish quantitative variable GLM (P < 0.05) being statistically different. races had mean±SE (4.9±0.1), better (P< 0.05), than 3 10 (4.8±0.2) both 0 2 (5.5±0.2). Race also behaviors. There more classified nervous BSAD (39/326, 11.9%), SAD (29/326, 8.9%), ASAD (13/325, 4.0%) POST (17/320, 5.3%) compared 11 plus experience; (5/343, 1.5%), (16/343, 4.7%), (4/343, 1.2%) (1/341, 0.3%). improvement among they have been suitable levels competition unexperienced horses. However, additional less stress fear-full can result reduction available energy possibly prolonged elevated cortisol concentrations.