starting gate
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Of the 95 horses who have run in the Kentucky Derby in the past five years, only 13 entered the starting gate for the Preakness.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 8, 2026
It’s way too early to think Potente will turn out like that, but he did earn 50 Kentucky Derby points, all but guaranteeing himself a spot in the starting gate at Churchill Downs.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 7, 2026
"When I think back on my crash, I didn't stand in the starting gate unaware of the potential consequences. I knew what I was doing. I chose to take a risk," she added.
From BBC ● Feb. 17, 2026
Vonn crashed just 13 seconds after leaving the starting gate, losing control and falling hard on the course.
From Salon ● Feb. 8, 2026
But somehow, after throwing a fit in the starting gate and being left flat-footed at the bell, the colt won his race that day.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
