ON THE UP

Typically, when a horse demonstrates consistent improvement and exhibits potential for exceptional performance, it may be nearing peak form. After several races, a horse may display visible signs of enhanced fitness as a result of regular conditioning. Any increase in the race distance could prove advantageous, and you may observe a heightened level of confidence in the animal's demeanor. If the stable assigns a senior jockey to ride the horse, and various other favourable factors align to enhance its chances of success, this presents an opportune moment to consider investing. Striking at the right moment is of paramount importance, necessitating the consideration of various positive indicators, such as when a horse appears to be in prime condition and ready for action.

CONDITION

The primary objective of a trainer is to optimise the performance of a racehorse by meticulously managing its diet, exercise regimen, and recovery periods. This involves nurturing and developing the horse's physical attributes, such as strength and stamina to achieve peak racing condition. Racehorses are powerful creatures, weighing approximately 500 kilograms, and it requires a dedicated team to gradually enhance their fitness levels over a period of 10 to 14 weeks. The training process begins with slow work, progresses to pacework, and culminates in fully extended workouts. A well-conditioned equine athlete exhibits a robust appearance, exceptional health, and optimal readiness for racing competitions. Tracking the conditioning process is our job and we meticulously keep an eye on every horses’ progress as they reach peak physical condition.

FRESH UP

Typically, after a hiatus of a month or longer, a horse returning to the racetrack is considered to be racing in a 'fresh state' of condition. Some horses excel in this state, especially sprinters. They can perform exceptionally well but are prone to 'blowing out' and experiencing significant fatigue without substantial conditioning fitness behind them. Trainers often provide horses with appropriate hitouts at trials and in trackwork to enhance their capabilities before their return, allowing the horse to strengthen somewhat before returning to competitiive racing. Identifying when a horse is likely to perform well in this condition can be challenging, but they usually have a track record of strong first up performances and coming to hand quite quickly. Trials, and trackwork can provide insights that a horse is looking very sharp and capable of throwing out a big one.

2ND UP

Subsequent to the initial exertion of a fresh up run, their second attempt post-intermission can yield remarkable results, as many horses excel in this particular state. Frequently, the arduous initial effort clears the respiratory system, resulting in enhanced lung capacity and improved breathing efficiency - allowing the horse to become, 'clean winded'. Combined with increased physical conditioning in the lower extremities and core, their technique can exhibit significant improvement compared to the first attempt, leading to a noteworthy performance. Monitoring these improvements is crucial during the analysis phase and we closely track any horse with a history of strong 2nd up form.

3RD UP

It is widely believed that this is the time when a racehorse may achieve its earliest absolute peak condition and potentially deliver a performance close to its maximum potential. The first two runs provide an advantage in terms of fitness, while the third run finds the horse in a highly conditioned state, strengthened, healthy, and with enhanced stamina. For distances up to a mile, this is frequently the case. However, stayers and older horses may require a longer period, sometimes up to four or five runs or even more, to reach their optimal peak condition. Certain punters believe this 3rd up theory and concentrate on horses striking a third run.

DISTANCE SPECIALIST

The optimal distance for a racehorse's performance is influenced by its inherent abilities and lineage. As a horse approaches its preferred distance, its true potential may be revealed, having undergone rigorous training and preparation to excel at a specific distance range. For instance, a horse may demonstrate improved performance when transitioning from 1200 metres to 1400 metres, while a stayer might prefer a significantly longer distance to fully utilise its endurance. While various factors come into play, statistical analysis often provides valuable insights in this regard.

COURSE SPECIALIST

It is widely acknowledged that horses have preferences for certain racecourses. The characteristics of each track, such as the length of the straight, the size of the circuit, and the familiarity of the surroundings, can significantly impact a horse's performance. Some horses excel on tracks with tight turns as front-runners, while others thrive in wide-open spaces where they can build up finishing speed. Trainers leverage this knowledge to strategically plan their horses' campaigns, often returning to favourable courses or focusing on one a particular track more then others. A horse returning to a track it may have won on 12 months prior is definitely worth following, as their peak performance often repeats at the same corresponding time each year.

CAMPAIGN

It is common practice for trainers to devise a strategic plan for their horses' racing career when they bring them to the track. Each horse has a limited number of races during a campaign, excluding injuries. The goal is to gradually progress the horse through appropriate grades and distances that suit its abilities, with the ultimate objective of reaching peak fitness for a specific major stakes race, or any race for that fact. If the plan is executed successfully, the horse can participate in the targeted races and remain competitive. However, if the horse encounters setbacks, the training team may decide to give it a break to rejuvenate and develop a new strategy. Good horses may appear a great bet at the time, but is that the actual target race the trainer is aiming for? The proof is not always apparent, but thinking ahead is crucial.

MEASURE UP

When a horse is considered for advancement to a higher grade, it is critically evaluated against more seasoned and accomplished competitors. This assessment involves a delicate balancing act of analysing the horse's potential and determining whether it can compete effectively in higher grades or if it is more likely to remain within a lower rating band. Typically, there are key indicators that reveal a horse's true abilities, allowing it to stand out and 'measure up' as it progresses through the grades. However, some horses may never reach the heights of open grade competition or even secure a single race victory. Various factors normally give strong indications that a particular horse is capable of making the grade.

ALLOWANCE / CLAIM

Apprentice jockeys, at the commencement of their careers, are eligible for a weight allowance under the modern handicap system. This allowance gradually diminishes as they accumulate wins, eventually reaching zero before they become fully qualified professionals. Typically, the maximum allowance for any young rider is 4kg in Australia and New Zealand. This can provide a significant advantage to a horse, potentially reducing its weight to a level that offers an edge over other horses carrying much heavier weights. However, it's important to note that apprentice jockeys may lack the experience or expertise to handle certain types of horses effectively and they don't necessarily possess the craftsmanship through lack of experience to make quick decisions.

SENIOR RIDER

These jockeys are usually highly experienced experts in their professional field that have accumulated a high number of rides and victories over many years. The most accomplished jockeys are usually associated with, and maintain strong connections with the most prestigious stables. As a result, they often have the privilege of selecting their preferred horse to ride on race day. A senior rider knows the feel of a high class racehorse and when they jump on a favourite from a strong stable this is usually a strong indicator that the horse is likely to run well. Standout selections on race day usually indicate a favourable combination of an experienced rider, a reputable stable, and a high-quality horse.

TRIP

Distance plays a crucial role in horse racing. As horses progress through their campaign, they typically face increasing distances, allowing them to demonstrate their strength and potential for improvement. Conversely, horses may also be brought back to a shorter trip, coming back in distance where they may perform better due to the reduced conditioning required and fitness levels built up by running over more ground in previous races. Finding the optimal distance for a horse ensures that it competes in a race that best suits its abilities and maximises its chances of success.

TAKE IMPROVEMENT

Following a challenging race, a horse may exhibit a degree of improvement and deliver an enhanced performance in subsequent outings. Ideally, a horse should demonstrate consistent strength and improvement throughout a campaign, offering progressively better performances. A horse that displays strong finishing capabilities or struggles to be reined in at the end of a race may require an increase in distance. Such a horse may be approaching its peak performance potential (PPP) and closing in on a win. Often it is not necessarily the first few across the line worth noting, as a horse building up speed from the rear late in a race may take considerable benefit from that particular race and excel next time to the races, specifically if stepping up over more ground.

HARD, FIT

When a horse reaches its optimal potential, it will exhibit exceptional physical attributes. It's body will appear well-developed and muscular, with a glossy coat and defined muscle tone. At this stage, the horse has likely achieved peak fitness after undergoing a specific number of runs and is poised to deliver a superior performance. Some horses may display remarkable improvements in their condition, distinguishing themselves in the parade ring and indicating their enhanced competitiveness. Upon reaching full strength, the disparities between horses become more pronounced, allowing for noticeable comparisons. When the time is right it is usually obvious to the keen observer, and this is typically the time to jump on board and take full advantage.

BOUNCE BACK

Occasionally, a horse may underperform unexpectedly due to factors such as an obstructed run, bumped, hampered, held up or through a lack of effort, resulting in an unsuccessful finish. Sometimes the track bias, or track conditions are unsuitable and it affects their ability to perform to an optimum level. Also, a racehorse's temperament can be quite unpredictable, having an impact on its performance. While a horse may perform poorly in a specific race, it is possible for it to rebound and demonstrate significant improvement in subsequent races. It is advisable not to dismiss a capable racehorse based solely on a single poor performance, as form can be transient while class is enduring.

RESIDUAL FITNESS

A horse that has been given a brief respite after participating in multiple races may retain a degree of residual fitness upon its return to the racetrack. Consequently, it may not necessitate an excessive workload to restore the thoroughbred back to it's peak fitness level. Moreover, a temporary break can provide both mental and physical rejuvenation for the horse. Notably, stayers that have diligently developed their stamina over several months tend to maintain a substantial level of natural, gained fitness. In fact, a fit, healthy horse can exhibit remarkable strength even after a brief hiatus from racing and perform exceptionally well on return while still in a fresh condition. On being freshened up it can rejuvenate their mind and body as you see with any athlete. The weariness of the legs don't exist through recovery, but the lungs are at full strength and the body is still match hard fit. Keep an eye out.

STEPPING UP

In the context of horse racing, the term 'going up in distance' refers to increasing the distance length of a horse's race, usually in gradual increments. This can be done strategically to enhance the horse's performance and overall fitness. Trainers often start a horse at a shorter distance early in a campaign to sharpen it's speed characteristics, then increase distance as the animal strengthens. As the horse progresses and it's fitness improves, the trainer may gradually increase the distance of the races to work on stamina and body conditioning for peak exertion at the most ideal distance. Stayers, horses that excel over longer distances, require extensive training to develop the necessary endurance in their legs and lungs. In contrast, sprinters to milers focus on reaching a distance that allows them to maintain a fast, sustained gallop and achieve their highest speed towards the finish line. 'Stepping up' specifically relates to a horse making that next step up in distance during a campaign.

TURN OF FOOT

When a horse exhibits a sudden increase in speed, it is often described as having a remarkable 'turn of foot'. This ability to swiftly accelerate and sprint with determination upon the jockey's request can serve as a decisive winning strategy. However, in fast-paced races, appearances can sometimes be deceiving. The term 'turn of foot' specifically refers to a horse's exceptional capacity to accelerate rapidly and decisively, particularly when approaching the final stretch of the race towards the finishing post. A high quality, well-bred thoroughbred typically has the ability to turn it on late in a race and these are the characteristics we look for.

WELL UP/STILL UP

When discussing equine performance, the term "on the up" refers to a horse's trajectory towards its optimal racing level, where it can perform at its maximum potential. "On the up" indicates a horse's improvement as it approachs peak performance, suggesting a positive racing intent with possibly some improvement still to come. "Well up" signifies that the horse has reached that zone and is expected to perform strongly over a specific period. "Still up" pertains to a horse that has participated in multiple races but retains sufficient residual fitness to maintain an advantage and should continue to perform well