How to Read Horse Racing Speed Figures

Learning how to read horse racing speed figures can change your betting from random guessing to smart strategy. These figures take a horse's time and turn it into a simple score; higher scores mean faster runs.

What Are Speed Figures?

Speed figures help compare race times fairly across different tracks, distances, and surfaces. They make it easy to see how a horse performs, no matter if it runs on a fast dirt track or a slow turf course.

How They’re Calculated

TrackMaster calculates speed figures through several steps:

1. They record the horse's finishing time.
2. They adjust for differences in the track.
3. They apply the daily track speed.
4. They consider the horse's starting position and track conditions.

The final score, like 95, shows how well the horse did, taking all factors into account.

Spotting Trends

Look at a horse’s recent speed figures. If you see numbers like 85 → 90 → 95, it means the horse is improving and getting faster. If the numbers stay the same or drop (like 95 → 92 → 88), it could mean the horse is slowing down or facing tougher competition.

Use Class Ratings Smartly

TrackMaster also gives Class Ratings, which show the average speed figure for the race. If a horse scores a 90 in a race rated 85, it performed better than average. But if its score is lower than the class rating, it might struggle against stronger horses.

Putting It All Together

Here’s how to use speed figures well:

• Spot Rising Form: Horses showing improvement are good choices.
• Check Class: See how a horse’s figure stacks up against the class rating.
• Consider Context: Think about the race pace, jockey, distance, surface, and setup.
• Verify with Other Systems: Compare TrackMaster figures with Beyer or Equibase to confirm how a horse is performing.

Conclusion

Reading horse racing speed figures helps you make smart picks. Numbers like TrackMaster's or Beyer's show how well a horse ran, no matter the track or weather. Pay attention to trends and class ratings, and keep the overall picture in mind. Once you understand how to use these figures, they can give you the confidence and strategy you need to bet wisely.

FAQS

What do higher speed figures mean in horse racing?

Higher speed figures mean the horse ran faster and performed better, adjusted for track and race conditions.

How do I know if a horse is improving using speed figures? 

If a horse's recent numbers are rising (like 85 → 90 → 95), it’s usually a sign the horse is improving in form.

What is a class rating in speed figures?

A class rating shows the expected average performance for a race. Horses scoring above it are likely strong contenders.

Should I only use one speed figure system?

It’s best to start with one system, like TrackMaster or Beyer. But comparing two systems can give extra confidence in your picks.