What does it mean when a horse is ‘pushed out’?

When a horse ‘pushes out’ it’s usually good news for those who have bet on it to win

Horse racing pushed out

When betting on horse racing you’re likely to hear plenty of jargon coming from the mouth of the commentator and fellow punters around you. This can feel somewhat intimidating if you’re new to racing betting – but it doesn’t have to be that way!

That’s why Paddy Power is here with a series of Demystifying Racing guides to help you understand the weird and wonderful intricacies of this sport. What’s more, these guides may also help you in your betting technique – and give you the chance to show off to your mates by using the correct terminology!

So what does the term ‘pushed out’ mean? It’s something you’re likely to hear from a commentator when the race nears its conclusion. Read on to find out more…

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WHAT DOES PUSHED OUT MEAN?

When a horse is said to have ‘pushed out’ it is in fact moving ahead of its rivals in the final flings of a race. Often we see two or three horses battling for first place as the race nears the winning post – and usually one nudges ahead of the others.

This edging ahead can be done with the help of the jockey. Or, in instances where the horse ‘pushes out’, the horse does it on their own accord. Some horses just love racing and don’t need the encouragement of their jockeys and having a horse that knows when to push out and lead the charge to the line is a great asset for owners.

Naturally a horse that develops a reputation for its racing nous is one bettors are always looking to side with.

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Horse racing pushed out

Sometimes a horse can push out after going over a hurdle or fence (GETTY)

IS IT GOOD FOR YOUR BET?

Generally yes. If you’ve bet on a horse and hear that it’s ‘pushed out’ then usually that means you’re on for a winner, especially if the race is on the final straight. However, pushing out too early could be bad for the horse. After all, the jockey will have a gameplan on when to let the reins slack and give freedom to the horse. If the horse goes too early it could use up valuable energy that is required later in the race for the sprint finish.

A good, experienced jockey will have control of their horse so it doesn’t push too early.

It’s also worth noting that ‘pushed out’ is also used when describing betting odds that have recently expanded. For example, Shishkin’s odds may be pushed out from favourite to second favourite before a race.

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SO WHAT DOES DRIVEN OUT MEAN?

While a horse ‘pushes out’ on its own accord, the term ‘driven out’ is used to signify that the jockey has used the whip in order to incentivise their ride to move ahead of the pack. Of course, jockeys are restricted to the amount of whip use they can implement during a race.

Meanwhile, the term ‘ridden out’ is used when a jockey has used their hands and heels to incentivise a surge from the horse, but not the whip. This is a more subtle movement that horses may be more receptive to.

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