How is post position determined in horse racing?

Post positions are determined at the time entries are taken in a process called the draw to randomly determine a starting position for each horse in the race.

The draw usually occurs in a racetrack’s racing office, where agents, trainers and owners can witness the proceedings. Typically the draw involves pulling numbered pills representing post positions and then drawing corresponding entry slips from a box.

Post position can be an important factor in races, but a lot depends on the distance of the race and configuration of the racetrack over which it will be run. At some distances at certain tracks, for example, speed from the inside posts can be deadly, while at others, races run at the same distance may favor outside closers.

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