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.

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

"Standing in the starting gate yesterday was an incredible feeling that I will never forget. Knowing I stood there having a chance to win was a victory in and of itself."

From BBC • Feb. 9, 2026

Vonn crashed just 13 seconds after leaving the starting gate, losing control and falling hard on the course.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

Rast, placed fourth after the first go, topped the times after the second run, but unfortunately for her there was still one skier in the starting gate still to go.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

On May 11 Smith began the third phase of starting gate instruction.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand