A points race is a type of horse racing where horses compete to earn points based on their finishing positions. The objective is usually to accumulate as many points as possible over several races in order to qualify for a championship or final event, such as the Kentucky Derby or the Breeders' Cup.
In a typical points race, a predetermined number of races are designated as "restricted" events where only horses that have earned enough points can enter. The number of points awarded varies depending on the importance and prestige of the event, with higher-profile races offering more points to the winner.
Horses earn points by finishing in the top positions (usually first through third or fourth) in these designated races. The point system is designed so that the better a horse performs, the more opportunities it has to accumulate points and qualify for championship events.
Overall, the goal of a points race is to determine which horses are the best performers over a series of races and ultimately crown them as the champion.