Why is it, when they race cars, horses, dogs, etc., do they race counter clockwise on the track?

Question

Why is it, when they race cars, horses, dogs, etc., do they race counter clockwise on the track?

Answer 1

The SIMPLE answer is in all those sports they DO race on right handed circuits too. the more complicated answer would involve telling you the track names (too numerous around the world) but this is irrelevant as this is the motorcycle racing section . please post your question in the correct section. I am starting to realize all you people know that the people with the knowledge are Motorcycle racing fans and visit here regularly . and you think you will get an answer. but we prefer to answer motor cycle racing questions. we do look at other sections too. I hope this helps and you continue to use answers. but in the right section. have a nice day now.

Answer 2

Because the right arm/hand is the stronger so that going counter-clockwise the strength is on the outside where it is needed as well as the control. The same as in the protective issue. The cavalier, the protective male, always kept his ward to his left leaving his sword arm free for battle.  

However, I think counter-clockwise racing for cars became popular because the driver's steering wheel is on the left and when one races, one tries for the shortest route generally which is the inside

groove of a track. Driving counter-clockwise puts the driver on the inside where he is able to judge easier. For left-hand cars driving clockwise makes judging the inside- the shortest route-  more difficult.

For auto racing tracks that makes sense. What about horse racing and track and field? The Greeks and Romans probably have the answer for I believe chariot races were also run counter clockwise. Chariot races were with whips in the right hand, the stronger and the reins held in the left. Or, as with the Romans, wrapped around the waste so in case of an accident, the driver was unfortunately dragged until he could free himself.

Both Greek and Roman chariot racing were ran around to pylons

in a counter-clockwise direction, around 650 BC. and into the 11th and 12th Century. So, perhaps auto racing simply followed suit.

When I ski, I do lefties better than right turns for the control and strength is on my right side. But that is not a valid reason, probably going counter-clockwise oriented

Answer 3

Hey Sassy

I have never seen a motorbike race a dog or a horse (but I have seen them race plenty cars) but not under track conditions, so don't think you're quite right in your observation.

Some motorycle circuits (like some people) go both ways - hey, to each their own!

Answer 4

Well according to some history reports it all comes down to the American Revolution as in English Colonial times the racing was done the other way around and then the revolution happened to it was changed to the other way around possible to say Nah Nah Nah.  Seems rather childish to me.

Others say that the reason is due to this way the spectators get a better view of the racing.

Answer 5

Be careful.....you might get your butt chewed for not asking a "motorcycle" racing question.  Although it does have to do with racing.  My question did too, but I got a chew out.

Answer 6

what does this have to do with MOTORCYCLE RACING?

but in speedway, they race counter clockwise as well....

Answer 7

They dont always.

There are many MOTORCYCLE RACING tracks theat run counter clock-wise.

Also, cars / dogs / horse's have nothing to do with Motorcycle Racing.