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

LOUSVILLE, Ky. — Another day, another change in the Kentucky Derby field, with this one adding another Southern California horse to the starting gate.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

"Standing in the starting gate yesterday was an incredible feeling that I will never forget. Knowing I stood there having a chance to win was a victory in and of itself."

From BBC • Feb. 9, 2026

Vonn crashed just 13 seconds after leaving the starting gate, losing control and falling hard on the course.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

In challenging conditions, with a lower starting gate due to poor weather and visibility, in the number six bib, Vonn was on form from start to finish.

From Barron's • Jan. 10, 2026

Determined not to be left behind as they had been in the Bay Bridge Handicap, Pollard shot Seabiscuit from the starting gate and sent him blowing past the field.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand