Quote:
Originally Posted by cutchemist42
Do standardbreds have preferred running styles like speed,midpack,closers, etc?
Also, do the racing classes follow a similar progression like maiden to allowance to stakes?
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Yes, to question one, but with the advent of new bikes and track layouts, speed typically rules. The classiest horse in any field, which is also often the favorite, will grind to the top even if he/she lacks early speed and others will typically yield.
As far as classes , that is both the best friend of an astute handicapper and the worst nightmare for other.
Yes there are maiden races and nw 1-2-3 etc. Keep in mind since standardbreds are capable of racing weekly, man a trainer will milk these classes for smaller checks as opposed to hitting a Peter Principle situation where they reach a class whereby the horse can no longer win.
Once a horse leave the NW 123 they will either move into the claiming ranks which frankly may be the greatest invention espousing capitalism or more likely into the most larcenous system ever created in sports.
That would be NW $xxx.xx in last 4-5 starts. Most harness owners love betting and they love getting their horses into a spot where they are most likely to cash a bet. The art of dirtying one up comes into play and is used by even the largest stables. Put in three bad races in a row ( keeping in mind standarbreds are good to go every week). Race them easy for 3 weeks. Get condition class relief, train the crap out of them, maybe a bit of pre-racing treatment and let em roll. Cash your bet and capture the purse.
