Belmont race: Why do they have the horses block the race horses after they race, and escort them ...

[Mr. Potter]

after its over. I never understood this, is it because the horse will still want to run on the track?

 

[fairgambit]

I think this link will answer your question. They are called "lead ponies".
http://teensleuth.com/blog/?p=11808

 

[jim cummings]

I think this link will answer your question. They are called "lead ponies".
http://teensleuth.com/blog/?p=11808

Thanks. Very informative. I've always noticed it over the years but it was this evening that I questioned what exactly was up with the thoroughbred constantly buried it's head into the lead pony.

I had previous neglected the purpose of the lead pony. Just figured it was part of the spectacle.