Horse Racing Speed Figures show how fast a horse ran, adjusting for track and race conditions. They help bettors compare horses from different races. Systems like Beyer or Equibase turn race times into simple numbers; higher numbers mean better performance. Look for improving trends, like 85 to 90 to 95, to spot rising stars.
Don’t just focus on one number; consider class, pace, and surface too. When used correctly, speed figures make it easier and smarter to pick winners.
In the last 45 years, speed figures have changed how people pick winning horses. Before, bettors focused on messy raw times and track records. Now, speed figures adjust for track conditions, distance, and surface types. This means we can fairly compare a horse's performance on a muddy track to one on a fast track. Experts say these figures help us "normalize race times across all tracks, lengths, and surfaces."
A well-known speed figure is the Beyer Speed Figure, created by handicapper Andy Beyer. It gives the same score, like 94, for different times and distances, like 1:12 for six furlongs or 1:38 for a mile. This system makes it easy to compare races.
When you bet, check each horse’s recent speed figures. If a horse ran scores of 85, then 90, then 95, it shows improvement. This is a good sign for your bet. Speed figures help you find good bets quickly, saving you time compared to looking through raw times and charts.
Here’s a simple four-step way to use them:
1. Look for the highest numbers, they show the fastest recent runs.
2. Check trends, rising scores mean improving form.
3. Consider conditions, good figures on lower-quality tracks may not do well in tougher races.
4. Choose wisely combine high or rising figures with smart choices about race pace, class, and jockey.
Always pair speed figures with other information like the jockey, class, and race setup. A fast number is helpful, but understanding the context is what matters. Think of speed figures as a starting point. They provide a good base, but they're not the entire strategy.
Horse Racing Speed Figures are helpful for bettors. They make it easier to compare horses in different races and conditions. While systems like Beyer and Equibase provide quick information, the best way to succeed is to use these figures with other factors like class, surface, and pace. When used wisely, speed figures can help you pick winners.
What are Horse Racing Speed Figures?
Horse Racing Speed Figures are numbers that show how fast a horse ran in a race, taking into account track conditions, distance, and class. Higher numbers mean the horse performed better.
How do Horse Racing Speed Figures help in betting?
They help you quickly compare horses from different races. If a horse's figures go up (like 85 to 90 to 95), it shows improvement and could indicate a winner.
Which is the most used speed figure system?
The Beyer Speed Figure is the most popular system in the U.S. It's easy to understand and can be found in the Daily Racing Form.
Can beginners rely only on speed figures to pick winners?
No, speed figures are a good starting point, but you should also think about race class, jockey, surface, and pace to make better betting choices.
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