For a race as chaotic as this, the Steel Ball Run is actually governed by very strict rules. The 4,000-mile horse race from San Diego to New York City isn’t something you can just show up to on a whim, as the $50 million prize can only be won by jockeys who follow a set of specific regulations, beginning with the $150 entry fee, which is equivalent to a monthly household income. Some rules are inscribed in a contract, and others are just mentioned during enrollment: Each jockey is free to choose their own mode of transportation (e.g., horse, motorcar, their own two legs) but can’t swap it out once the race has begun. When it comes to weapons, as race organizer Steven Steel explains, jockeys are guaranteed that their “right to bear arms and protect themselves” won’t be infringed upon — but if race officials observe them using weapons to attack others, penalties will be issued.

Most of the conditions of the Steel Ball Run are laid out in a contract that all racers must sign before they can compete:

1. The entry fee shall be $150 (average monthly income of households back then) for each person entered.
2. If it so happens that the entrant fails to start the race, the said entrant shall not demand or seek refund of the entry fee.
3. The said entrant shall submit to the taking of his finger mark as proof of identity.
4. Prior to the commencement of the race, the entrant shall submit to the taking of his horse’s noseprint as proof of its identity.
5. Upon the conclusion of the race, the entrant shall submit to the taking of his horse’s noseprint as proof of its identity.
6. The participating jockey and horse shall, throughout the duration of the race, be limited to those declared at the time of entry. Whosoever violates the same shall be disqualified from the race.
7. The entrant shall strictly adhere to the appointed date and time for the commencement of the race.
8. The entrant shall not dispute the judges’ determination of the order of finish.

As jockeys enter the 2nd STAGE of STEEL BALL RUN, rules might be the last thing on their minds, but unless they follow them to a T, victory is anything but guaranteed. 

Episodes are now streaming on Netflix.