A race to cover a certain distance may be almost any length, and using any means stipulated by the rules of the race. Running a certain distance is the template of racing, but races are often conducted in vehicles, such as boats and carss, or on/with animals, such as horses.
Early records of races are evident on ancient Greek pottery, where running men are depicted vying for first place. A chariot race is described in Homer's Iliad.
A race and its name are often associated with the place of origin, the means of transport and the distance of the race. As a couple of examples, see the Paris-Dakar rally or the Athens marathon.
Here is a list of some common and not so common forms of racing.
Using only the human body's own muscles:
Types of racing