10 Ways Quarter Horse Racing Differs From Thoroughbred Racing

10 Ways Quarter Horse Racing Differs From Thoroughbred Racing

Let’s talk about the difference between American Quarter Horse racing vs. Thoroughbred racing.

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From AQHA Racing

While American Quarter Horse racing and Thoroughbred racing do share similarities, they’re just as different as they are the same. Here we examine handicapping information and tips to help you excel when betting on Quarter Horse races.

Post Position

While an even track from inside to out is the goal of every trackman, a track bias is inevitable at times. The serious handicapper will study:

  1. Results to determine if there is a track bias on a given day or on a seasonal basis (rail bad, etc.)
  2. Post position shifts from bad to good or vice versa. (Example: Horse A has started his last three races from the rail which has been slow all season but now gets the No. 7 slot – tab improvement.)
  3. A horse drawn outside a short field figures to rate an edge because a wide path is assured with trouble possible from only one side.

Early Speed

A quick start from the gate is vital in a race that involves yards rather than furlongs. Handicappers should highlight:

  1. Horses that break well consistently (i.e., are within a half length of the leader at the middle or gap call).
  2. Slow breakers - rarely a good wager.
  3. A fast breaker drawn between two slow starters should ensure a wide path.

Weight

Insignificant in Quarter Horse races except when there are wide disparities with other foes at 440 yards or farther; fans should understand that a Quarter Horse jockey’s minimum weight is 124 pounds, yet most Quarter Horse jockeys ride heavy.

Speed Figure

This can be used as a good indicator in Quarter Horse racing whereas it is totally useless in Thoroughbred racing because it fails to take into account the fractional times. Download our free, handy guide about speed figures and ratings.

Techniques for Wagering on Quarter Horse Races

We've compiled our top applications and techniques for anyone and everyone between advanced Thoroughbred players and beginning wagerers. Download the Guide to Wagering on American Quarter Horse Racing.