Dostih

Dostih is a term used in several Central European languages to denote a horse race. In Czech, Slovak, and Polish usage, a dostih is a competitive event in which horses run a prescribed course over a set distance, guided by jockeys. Races take place on dedicated racecourses and are governed by national racing authorities under standard rules and regulations.

Most dostihs are flat races, but some formats include obstacles or jumps, creating a steeplechase-style event. Distances vary from sprint-length courses to long-distance races, and outcomes are decided by finish order. In many regions, betting markets and handicapping influence the composition of fields and the results.

Historically, dostihs have been a prominent feature of Central European sport, with organized racing programs dating back to the 19th century in several cities. The Velká pardubická, held at Pardubice in the Czech Republic, is among the region’s best-known long-distance steeplechases and exemplifies the durability of the dostih tradition.

Today, dostih events support breeding, training, tourism, and media coverage, and they form part of national sports calendars. They reflect a broader tradition of horse racing in the region and continue to attract participants, sponsors, and spectators.