Before the race why do they have two horses riding together, warming up?

Question

Before the race why do they have two horses riding together, warming up?

Answer 1

It's more organized and keeps the racehorses calm before the race.  Horses are herd animals so they feel happier to have another horse with them.  And it takes some pressure off the jockey because the horse will work with his lead pony and go the same speed as it... if the horse warmed up without a lead pony, the jockey would have to keep contact with the bit to make the horse go slower and a lot of times that makes the horses upset.  It's really best to keep the horses calm and happy.

Answer 2

Because although made for tv specials, man can't run as fast as horses so other horses must be used to warm them up.

Answer 3

I believe it's to keep the horse that is racing calm.  Horses can become nervous and easily spooked so the other horse acts as an escort.

Answer 4

for company? if the horses are just walking then its obviously just for company, if they're running then they're sort of having like a mini race to get the compitittion on.

Answer 5

To make sure the one that is to race does not get out of control.  These horses are ready to rock and roll once they get on the track.