The race trotted and found to be sound" means that a horse, specifically one that participates in races, was exercised by trotting (a two-beat gait) and showed no signs of lameness, stiffness, injury, or abnormal movement, indicating the horse is physically healthy and capable of its intended work.
Breakdown of the phrase:
The race: Refers to a horse bred and trained for racing, often a Thoroughbred.
Trotted: The horse was made to move at a trot, a four-beat gait where the horse moves its legs in diagonal pairs (e.g., left front and right hind) and has a moment of suspension.
Found to be sound: This is a positive assessment by a qualified individual, often a veterinarian, indicating the horse is free from any physical problems that would prevent it from performing.
Signs of a sound horse (and what would indicate unsoundness):
Movement: A sound horse moves with an even, natural rhythm and smooth strides.
Gait: They will walk, trot, canter, and gallop normally without limping, head-bobbing, or stiffness.
Purpose: The horse is capable of performing its intended job (e.g., racing, riding, or pasture life) without pain or risk of further injury.
In short, the phrase describes a routine check where the horse's movement at a trot confirmed its physical health and ability to work.