The horse racing industry has seen a range of technological advancements across the last decade. From high-speed photography to video sensors, there are lots of tech tools that are already widely used in horse races—and there are also new, innovative tools being launched to improve the future of horse racing.
Here are four ways in which technology is changing the horse racing industry.
Healing Technology
Advanced technology is now being used to heal injuries and monitor overall health. Modern equine MRI machines and X-ray machines can be used to effectively identify skeletal problems and lameness, and it is also possible to use 3D printing to create splits, prosthetics, and casts for horses who have been injured. This makes it much easier to heal race horse injuries.
Horses can also be fitted with an endoscope to monitor their health and breathing. Up until recently, vets would normally do breathing assessments using basic guesswork and general equine knowledge, so this is a big step forward!
Finally, it is possible to monitor a horse’s individual way of moving using a smart saddle. The saddle has a microchip inserted into it that can measure the stride and symmetry of the horse’s gait, so it is easier for trainers to create personalized programs to suit the horse’s needs.
Sports Science Technology
It seems like every year horses get stronger and faster—and this is partially due to innovative sports science. A new training method has emerged from Kingswood Stud, Berkshire, called “the Kurtsystems training method.” Young horses are attached to a large contraption with slack reins, as this helps to train their bodies for future racing. The machine does look pretty weird, but it is already showing positive results!
Another emerging technology comes from Sheikh Mohammed, who has installed artificial surface gallops and a sea walker in his stables. This has proven to have both strengthening and recuperative benefits.
Sports Betting Technology
Technology has also been used to improve sports betting for punters. Nowadays, people don’t have to travel to a casino or a betting operator to place bets; they can simply go online or download an app. Mobile technology has also advanced considerably, meaning that punters can get real-time updates on horse racing events that are currently happening. This means they can check the horse racing results whenever they want, wherever they want (and they can also place bets during the game).
Blockchain Technology
Finally, blockchain technology is having a big effect on the horse racing industry. The ledger technology can be used to secure cyptocurrency exchanges online, helping to keep personal data safe. Blockchain technology can also be used by trainers and owners to share information about their horses, which will make it easier for bookmakers to provide reasonable odds.
So, technology has changed the world of horse racing for both the horses and the fans who love to watch—and it is likely that future technological innovations will transform the industry even further.
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