Backstretch

Portion of the racetrack

The standard definition of backstretch refers to the configuration of an oval racetrack, where the backstretch is parallel to the homestretch. It is shown in blue on the adjacent diagram. On an oval track, sprint races (typically 7 furlongs or less) begin on the backstretch and go around one turn to the finish line. Longer races start in the homestretch, take one turn into the backstretch, then another turn into the homestretch, so may be called "two turn" races. Depending on the track dimensions, very long races may consist of three turns, starting on the backstretch and then making a full lap and more.

Stabling area

Backstretch is also used to refer to the stabling area adjacent to the racetrack.

One groom explained the daily routine: "I come in about four-thirty. Feed breakfast. Most people have watchers [who observe a horse to make sure it is eating well and shows no signs of illness] when they feed breakfast. We don’t because the stable’s not that big. But I come in about four-thirty. Feed. Muck out my stalls. Then about five-thirty—six we start training. You know, we pack them up and send them to the track. They come back, we bathe them. But that lasts until ten or ten-thirty. Then we do them up. We put all kinds of liniments and poultices on them and put bandages on them. We feed about eleven a.m. Then we come back about three-thirty. Muck out the stalls again and feed them about five. And then we’re done..."

On racedays, the groom is also responsible for leading the horse to and from the racetrack, followed by a bath.

References

References

1. "Definition of backstretch in Oxford dictionary (American English)".
2. "Guide to One and Two Turn Track Configurations – Hello Race Fans!".
3. (2006). "A backstretch journey : life behind the scenes at a race track". Booksmart Studio, Inc..
4. "An Ethnography of the Saratoga Racetrack".
5. "A day in the life: One Woodbine racetrack groom and her four extra kids".