Bridge to Gold Rules the Red Bird

re: Bridge to Gold Rules the Red Bird

Blood-Horse Staff — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:45:50 GMT

Frank J - Very good question, but hard to give a straight answer to. There are many variables in a work, including track, track condition, whether the horse worked in company, etc. In addition, some trainers like to work their horses fast, some not-so-fast. I like to look for consistency - working the same or similar time usually means that they are doing exactly what the trainer is asking. Also, one fast workout followed by some more pedestrian works can mean, yes, we know he has speed, but no need to waste it in the morning. Another thing to look at is where the workout ranked among all workouts at that distance at that track on that day. I have been noting when horses record a bullet (ie the fastest work at the distance for that day), but I have not been regularly listing workout rank. If this is something people would like to see, I can.

Back to your original comment, :12 per furlong is a good clip, but the pattern is more important.

re: Bridge to Gold Rules the Red Bird

Blood-Horse Staff — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:37:06 GMT

Outermonvolia - Excellent Question. All things being equal, a non-gate work should be faster because the horse is already in motion. There are some variable including whether the clocking begins right at the gate opening or somewhat later.

re: Bridge to Gold Rules the Red Bird

Frank J. — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:20:39 GMT

I have a question also. When your showing the times for the works, what would a decent time for a 2yr. old in training be? Is :12 a furlong a good measuring stick? Thanks for any info.

re: Bridge to Gold Rules the Red Bird

Outermonvolia — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 23:56:31 GMT

I really enjoy this column. I have a quick question. When a horse works from the gate versus not working from the gate which is normally the faster work all other things being equal. Thank You