Other Definitions
racing (dict)
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RacingA race is a competition of speed. The competitors in a race try to complete a given task in the shortest amount of time. Typically this involves traversing some distance, but it can be any other task. A race to cover a certain distance may be any length, and using any means stipulated by the rules. Running a distance is the most basic form of racing, but races are often conducted in vehicles, such as boats and cars; and on or with animals, such as horses. A race may be run continuously from start to finish or may be made of several segments called heats or stages. A heat is usually run over the same course at different times. A stage is a shorter section of a much longer course or a time trial. Early records of races are evident on pottery from ancient Greece, which depicted running men vying for first place. A chariot race is described in Homer's Iliad. List of types of race Unassisted human racing Using only the human body's own muscles: Cycle racing Cycling with bicycles: Ski racing Skiing with skis, on snow: Animal racing Animals alone, or with human riders on the animal's back or in a conveyance: Motorized racing Machines powered by motors, on land: Boat racing Boats on water: Other types In virtual reality, or in a videogame: Etymology The word race comes from a Viking word. This Viking word arrived in France during the invading of Normandy and gave the word raz which means "swift water" in Brittany; it can be found in "Pointe du Raz" (the most western point of France, in Brittany), and "raz-de-mare" (tsunami). A race and its name are often associated with the place of origin, the means of transport and the distance of the race. As a couple of examples, see the Paris-Dakar rally or the Athens marathon. See also *
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