Calculating speed figures is often a straightforward process. But sometimes the results on a given card can be ambiguous or inscrutable, which was the case when Churchill Downs ran its opening-night program April 28.
The methodology behind the creation of Beyer Speed Figures is much more science than any subjective determination. I'll Have Another's figures for the Kentucky Derby and Prerakness provide a classic study.
Michael Hammersly's weekly "Trip Notes" column, covering Friday and Saturday races, including the 2012 Black-Eyed Susan and Preakness Stakes.
BreezeFigs Quick-Pix Saturday May 19th
Countdown to the Crown returns for a seventh season online as one of the most comprehensive handicapper’s scouting reports of the 3-year-old scene. Posted each Friday at DRF.com from Jan. 6 through the Belmont Stakes, Countdown keeps you apprised of the rising stars of the 3-year-old class.
Chat live about the Preakness Stakes with DRF handicappers Brad Free, Marcus Hersh, and Dan Illman on Thursday, May 17, starting at 5 p.m. Eastern. After the chat, check back for a transcript of highlights.
Join handicapper Michael Kipness, aka The Wizard, for a live chat this Wednesday, May 16, starting at 5 p.m. Eastern to discuss Saturday's Preakness Stakes. After the chat, check back for a transcript of highlights.
Trip Notes: Analysis and video replays of the Peter Pan Stakes and Lazaro Barrera Stakes
BreezeFigs Quick-Pix Saturday May 12th
This past meet at Oaklawn Park, Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert went 6 for 9 while competing exclusively in stakes, and two of his three losses came behind other Baffert-trained runners. This Oaklawn history points to a betting angle in Saturday’s Peter Pan at Belmont Park, even though Baffert doesn’t have a starter in the race.
