backstretch

[bak-strech]

noun

1. the straight part of a race track opposite the part leading to the finish line.

Word History and Origins

Origin of backstretch¹

First recorded in 1830–40; back ¹ + stretch

Example Sentences

Journalism proved again what a great competitor and super horse he is, rallying from next to last on the backstretch to win the $1-million Haskell Stakes on Saturday at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, N.J.

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But as the horses went down the backstretch Journalism started to get engaged with Sovereignty close by.

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His early speed and front-running ability likely means he’ll be on the lead as the horses head down the backstretch.

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Harris won the 100 in 10.92 seconds and took the lead on the backstretch to win the 200 in 21.66, holding off Granada Hills’ Justin Hart by nine hundredths of a second.

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Clever Again broke on top and led down the backstretch with Gosger just behind him.

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