Jimbo,

I would argue that "class" is an important factor and pace is a part of class. (notice my name lol)

I define "class" as all the intangible qualities of ability that do not show up in speed figures.

Two horses can run the exact same final time, but that does not mean they have the same amount of deterimination, courage, willingness, stamina/racing reserves, short burst acceleration, 1/4 or 1/2 mile speed, desire to compete, versatility, etc...

As you move up the ladder, not only are the horses faster, but they generally possess greater quantities of the above attributes.

That generally makes the races more demanding and competitive (pace being a part of that). Many horses run their fastest speed figures when those types of demands are not made of them. As horses move up the ladder, they are often exposed as not having enough of the intangible qualities required to duplicate the speed figures they earned at lower levels. Others reveal their surplus of those qualities and rise to the competition and run faster.

Sometimes, you can see class beforehand if you have decent visual skills and watch a lot of races.

I think it is silly to dismiss the quality of the field a figure was earned against.

Notice also, I am not saying to use the class designation. I am saying to actually look at the quality of the field and the competitiveness of the race.



Post Edited (08-29-04 17:42)