Abstract

Understanding factors influencing racing performance is essential for optimizing breeding and training strategies in Arabian horses. This study investigated the effects of strain, demographic variables (sex and age), and morphological characteristics (coat color and withers height) on competitive success in Egyptian Arabian horse racing. Racing data spanning 2019-2025 were obtained from the Egyptian Horse Racing Authority for purebred Arabian horses (EHRA) competing in sanctioned races. Variables recorded included strain classification, sex, age, coat color, withers height, number of races, number of wins, winning ratio, and cup wins. Statistical analyses employed descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent T-test to evaluate factor effects on performance parameters. Strain significantly influenced racing outcomes, with the Hadban strain exhibiting the highest winning ratios and cup wins (51.0400%,3.00 respectively) among all strains tested. Sex differences were statistically significant, with males showing moderately better performance than females across most metrics (39.9253%,35.2867% respectively). Age demonstrated strong effects on performance, with mature horses aged 9-12 years achieving superior results winning ratio (47.9775%) compared to younger horses (3-5 years) (38.1394%) and moderate-aged competitors (6-8 years) (38.9400%). Coat color significantly affected racing success, with chestnut and dapple-gray horses demonstrating the highest winning rates (53.4660%,49.6500% respectively). Withers height showed minimal association with racing success, exerting limited influence on performance outcomes. Results highlight the critical roles of genetic lineage, sex, age, and specific physical traits in Arabian racing success, providing practical insights for Egyptian breeding programs and training optimization. Genetic lineage (strain), sex, age, and specific morphological traits significantly determine racing success in Egyptian Arabian horses. These findings offer evidence-based guidance for optimizing Arabian horse racing performance in Egypt through strategic breeding decisions and age-appropriate racing strategies.

Key words: Arabian racing horse, racing performance, demographic factors, morphological predictors, Egyptian horses, breeding optimization.