# Race Classes and Entry Rules

Not every race is the same.

On Pinecraft Equestrian, races are divided into different classes so that horses compete in fairer and more suitable events.

## Why Race Classes Exist

Race classes help make competition more balanced.

Instead of every horse entering every race, classes are used to group entries by things like:

- Speed XP
- Jump XP
- required riding crop
- player rank in some higher-level events

This helps newer horses avoid being thrown straight into the toughest competitions.

## Horse XP Requirements

Many races require your horse to fall within a specific XP range.

This means:

- some races are designed for newer horses
- some are aimed at more developed horses
- some allow a much wider range of entries

A race can have minimum and maximum Speed XP or Jump XP requirements. This means a horse can be too inexperienced for one race but too advanced for another.

## Riding Crop Requirements

Some races require a certain kind of riding crop.

Depending on the race, this may mean:

- a Riding Crop
- a Pro Riding Crop
- either crop type

You must hold the required crop in your **main hand** when joining and keep it there until the race ends.

## Energy Requirements

Your horse must have enough energy to join the race.

Feed and check your horse before race time if it is low on energy.

## Join Timing

Joining closes **10 seconds before the race starts**.

A countdown begins **5 seconds before the race starts**.

Join promptly once the race opens.

## Rank Requirements

Some advanced races also require the player to hold an appropriate rank.

This is used for certain higher-level events and helps keep top competitions meaningful.

## Joining the Right Race

Before using `/joinrace`, check that:

- you are mounted on a ModN Equine horse
- the race join window is still open
- you have permission to race that horse
- your horse has enough energy
- your horse matches the Speed XP and Jump XP requirements
- you are holding the correct crop in your main hand
- you meet any rank requirement if the event has one

Preparing properly gives you the best chance of a smooth and successful race entry.