Backstretch

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The Backstretch is used to describe the area in a horse racetrack where horses are stabled and the training and daily work of maintaining the horses occurs. In many race tracks it will be found directly across the track from the grandstands and may also be called "the other side of the track."

There are several areas in a backstretch. One known as shed row is a line of stables, each stable home to many of the horses at the track. There are also dormitories where workers (many migrant) live as well offices for the trainers to register horses for upcoming races, a cafeteria, a recreation hall, and offices for the Chaplain. People working in this area are sometimes described as "the backstretch family."and consists of trainers, exercise riders, jockeys, grooms, farriers, veterinarians, muckers, jockey agents, and others in various positions.

A photo-essay, A Backstretch Journey, published by photographer Harris J. Sklar gives a vivid account of the daily life and activity occurring in the backstretch with both photographs and quotes. More about this book and the photographer can be found at [1].

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