Allowance: A race restricted to horses with certain records. For example, a "non-winners of two" allowance is open only to horses with one victory or less.

Apprentice: A relatively inexperienced jockey. The National Steeplechase Association gives apprentice jockeys the following weight allowances (deductions): Non-winners of one race - 10 pounds; of 15 races - 5 pounds. Jockeys must be at least 16 years old.

Claiming: Certain races are designated as Claiming Races, where a horse may be purchased, or claimed. The claim is made and money put up before the race is run, and the purchase must go through, no matter where the horse finishes. Only NSA licensees may claim horses.

Furlong: The standard measure in U.S. racing. One furlong equals one-eighth of a mile.

Handicap: A race in which the horses are assigned different amounts of weight to carry, according to their respective abilities and past performances. In theory, the purpose is to have all horses reach the finish line at the same time.

Maiden: A horse that has never won a race.

National Fence: A synthetic steeplechase fence used at most stops in the United States. It consists of a steel frame stuffed with plastic "brush" at a height of 52 inches. A foam-rubber roll, covered with green canvas, is placed on the takeoff side.

Novice: A horse in the early stages of its steeplechase career. Novice races are held at many meets, to give horses experience over hurdles before they compete with more-seasoned jumpers.

National Steeplechase Association: The NSA, founded in 1895, is the governing body for steeplechase racing in the United States. Based in Fair Hill, Maryland, the NSA sanctions, takes entries, approves officials, and inspects courses. The NSA licenses all participants and keeps official statistics.

Paddock: Area where horses are saddled before a race.

Purse: Total money distributed in a race. Winner collects 60 percent of total purse, with shares paid to sixth place.

Stewards: Presiding judges or officials at a race meet. They have final decision on all matters pertaining to a race. They may levy fines on owners, trainers, or jockeys who violate the rules of racing. Typical rulings include disqualification of horses who interfere with others in a race. Each race meet has 3 stewards.

Timber Fence: Natural, wooden fence constructed of boards, logs or posts and rails. Timber races are held as part of many race meets.

Wings: The panels on either side of a steeplechase fence which are designed to guide a horse to a fence.