TGJB,
your figures, however, suggest that conditions today are such that route horses will run equal or slower times than horses of past years, yet run "faster". i just think your analysis needs concrete proof explaining why the conditions have changed.
Dr. Roman's article does not prove that horses of past years were faster because a few experts say they were. At the same time, you have not proven that today's horses run faster just because you say that conditions are not as conducive to fast times....... just something i wanted to toss out while i had it on my mind........ don't want to waste your time, please go on to part two.