The Great Debate in Handicapping....how to incorporate pace.

Fast horses do not always run fast fractions, but they can if necessary.

Which would have been the better #, assuming a similar path was taken by GZ.

The Classic pace: :23 2/5 :47 1:11 1/5 1:35 2/5 1:59

or Hypotethical Pace:

22:4 :46 1:09 4/5 1:34 2/5 2:00 2/5.

In the second situation, GZ will obviously have stronger pace #'s, but not as strong a final #.

GZ did not have to run the second pace scenario, but could have if required. That's part of the definition of class---the ability to call on extra when needed.

Would GZ have held off PP and or PD is another question. Their class and ability is what enables them to stay closer to a faster pace and still take advantage of the slower final quarter.


Good Luck,
Joe B.