paddock

thumb|A sand paddockA paddock is a small enclosure for horses. This term also applies to a trackside area for a motor racing competition, particularly Formula One, and is synonymous with the competing field.

==Description== thumb|The saddling paddock at Belmont Park|alt=|left thumb|A saddling paddock at a Race track|racetrackThe most common design provides an area for exercise and is often situated near the stables. Larger paddocks may have grass maintained in them, but many are dirt or a similar natural surface. In those cases drainage and a top layer of sand are often used to keep a suitable surface in the paddock.