starting gate

American  

noun

1. any of various types of movable barriers for lining up and giving an equal start to the entries in a horse or dog race.

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starting gate British  

noun

1. a movable barrier so placed on the starting line of a racecourse that the raising of it releases all the contestants simultaneously

2. the US name for starting stalls

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Etymology

Origin of starting gate

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

“The year-end rally is still at the starting gate,” he said.

From Barron's

But when they get to the starting gate, says Dylan, “she’s just the competition that I have to beat.”

From The Wall Street Journal

In fact, only 20 of them make the starting gate and you only get one chance — when they are a 3-year-old.

From Los Angeles Times

Citizen Bull will have enough points to make the starting gate, while Barnes, a $3.2-million purchase, will be left at home.

From Los Angeles Times

Even finishing last in Saturday’s race will bring him more points, most assuredly gaining him a spot in the Derby starting gate.

From Los Angeles Times