Ratings Handicap

Equibase Company, the Thoroughbred industry's official database for racing information, has incorporated two changes to its performance-based horse rating that takes into consideration the weight of accomplishment at the highest levels and early career recognition for maiden special weight winners with limited starts, the data gather said in a press release on Wednesday. The Equibase rating--which is intended to provide an unbiased performance score based on race outcomes and measurable factors such as speed, race strength, track conditions and trip factors--launched last fall with inaugural ratings races conducted at Santa...

On Apr. 15--the eighth day of Keeneland's 15-day Spring Meet--the Condition Book offers a new type of race: a "ratings handicap." Worth $84,000, the 6 1/2-furlong event for 4-year-olds and up is for horses with performance numbers (85-75) derived from previous performances based on speed, finish position, competition and other factors. Developed by Equibase, the Thoroughbred industry's official database, the ratings system was designed to simplify eligibility requirements, improve race competitiveness and attract larger fields. It differs from Equibase Speed Figures, which measure how fast a horse has run in...