Harness Racing is now one of the most popular racing events of the world. The history of such races dates back to several years in ancient times when it was extremely popular. However, with the fall of the Roman Empire the race had lost its importance to a certain extent.

However, the race was again revived in USA where trotting horses became one of the best ways of rural entertainments. Commercialization had not yet touched the harness races that time. In the early years of 19th century harness races started getting importance. By the year 1925 the race was taking place in hundreds of nations across the globe.

By the year 1800 harness racing was considered to be at its peak and one of the most sought after sporting events of the world. Since then many changes were introduced in the racing styles and ways by which it took place. There was a time when automobiles were introduced in harness races and horses were no longer seen. However, changes keep taking place in such races. Today it is at its peak in several countries including Canada, New Zealand and Australia. At present harness race tracks are much more in number than the thoroughbred tracks.