The phrase "hat in the ring" is usually heard as to "throw one's hat in the ring" and references someone announcing that he or she is going to enter a race for political office or some other type of position or job.

To throw one's hat in the ring was originally a literal description of the method boxers or even spectators would use to show their interest in joining a boxing match. This predates the current professional boxing era by a considerable time span; the phrase's first recorded usage was in the London Times in 1804.

Use Example - Suzanne decided that it was time to throw her hat in the ring and enter the race for governor.

Source Tags : Sports