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What does "off to the races" mean and how to use this idiom?

Can you give me more examples to use this phrase?

I only found this definition, and it didn't click with me:

(idiomatic) In or into a process of energetic engagement in some activity; in or into a phase of conspicuously increasing satisfaction or success.

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The following definition from the McGraw-Hill Dictionary may help:

off to the races:

Fig. an expression characterizing the activity or excitement that is just beginning; [we are] leaving for something interesting or exciting.

The tour bus is out in front waiting and we've said goodbye to everyone. Looks like we're off to the races.

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  • Let’s say I’m sitting in a roller coaster chair and I know there is no way to come back. Can I say something like this: “We’re off to the races. There is no turning back.”
    – Codewife_101
    Jan 3, 2018 at 6:45
  • @Codewife_101 I think that would be an odd usage of that idiom, but it is hard to explain why.
    – Neil
    Sep 21, 2018 at 7:34
  • Here's another dictionary link if you like it and want to add it to your answer: idioms.thefreedictionary.com/off+to+the+races
    – Brōtsyorfuzthrāx
    Feb 27, 2019 at 1:58

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