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Originally Posted by raybo
As has been stated over and over and over, class is multifaceted. And, means something different to different players. There is what I call "true" class, and there is "calculated" class, or "performance" class.
"True" class is inherent to the animal, it's psychological makeup towards competitiveness, or in the wild, the "leader of the pack" level in which the horse belongs (herd stuff).
"Calculated" or "Performance" class is an attempt to quantify class by man-made class heirarchy and/or race conditions, and/or pace versus speed calculations, etc..
"True" class must be visually observed, for the most part, an observation of a horse that refuses to give up, for example, regardless of his/her available/remaining energy levels. Or, the ability to intimidate weaker or more "cowardly" horses (again, all herd stuff)
"Calculated" class, is just that, calculated from past race data and does not necessarily require visual observation.
By combining the 2 types of class one attains a "composite" class, which is probably the most valuable way of determining a class rating. But, it is also the most difficult to attain as most players do not visually observe and record "true" class, and also don't put enough thought into their "calculated" class ratings.
Personally, I prefer to use "calculated" class, and combine that with my velocities/energy/total velocity ratings and running styles. I feel that the "visual" part of the equation is far too subjective in nature, and therefore will not stand the test of time.
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