Post Time marks the precise moment when a horse race officially begins, signaling the start for all horses at the track.

This two-word phrase originated from the tradition of races kicking off at a designated "post" position, evolving into the scheduled start time announced in racing programs.

Racing Lingo Origins

Horse racing jargon like "post time" dates back centuries, with terms solidifying in North American tracks by the 20th century. British variants include "under starter’s orders," but "post time" dominates U.S. usage for the exact race commencement.

Why It Matters

Announcers call "post time" as horses load into the gate, heightening anticipation—think thunderous hooves thundering down the track at events like the Kentucky Derby. Bettors and fans sync watches to it, ensuring no missed action.

Fun Track Traditions

  • Races build tension right before post time, with jockeys poised in starting gates.
  • "Off to the races" stems from this, now a casual idiom for things gaining momentum.
  • Modern tracks flash "post time" on screens, blending old lingo with digital precision.

"Post time: The specified time of day a horse race will start."

In January 2026 racing calendars, post time remains a staple, unchanged by trends—check Breeders' Cup previews for live examples.

TL;DR : "Post time" is the classic two-word phrase for a horse race's start.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.