Although probably less popular than the Bear Pits, Rat Racing is a favourite pastime among the commoners of The City. It employs a circular track and a piece of Cheese, which the rats probably chase like greyhounds after an electric hare. Small wagers are placed on the outcome, typically ranging from one to two Copper Coins, but possibly as little as wooden sticks and a cabbage.[1]
The rats involved are subject to strict regulations and possibly even a training regime. They receive "a rub down and a nice meal" following each race but are not permitted to take the cheese under penalty of death. At 2-3 years of age, a rat is no longer deemed fit for racing.[2]