March 29, 2024

Handicapper’s Library: Brisnet Speed Ratings FAQ

Audbile
Audible's 107 Brisnet Speed Rating in the Florida Derby is the fastest of any 2018 Kentucky Derby points race (Photo courtesy Lauren King/Coglianese Photography)

HOW ARE THE BRISNET SPEED RATINGS CALCULATED?

Brisnet Speed Ratings are based on a variation of the “projection method” which some other popular speed figures are based. Unlike others, Brisnet uses an objective, computer-precise method to make the final time projections rather than using the subjective opinion of one handicapper.

The past performances of every horse competing in a given field is examined with the painstaking detail only a computer can do. The projections generated by Brisnet’s computer system are based on proprietary techniques and algorithms which have been rigorously tested and long proven over hundreds of thousands of races. This computer precision enables the Brisnet Speed Ratings to use the most accurate projections and variants possible.

ARE BRISNET SPEED RATINGS COMPARABLE ACROSS DIFFERENT TRACKS?

Yes. Since the ratings are “fully adjusted” (reflecting both daily and track-to-track variants), they are comparable across all North American racetracks.

HOW MANY SPEED POINTS REPRESENT ONE LENGTH?

The Brisnet Speed Ratings points-per-length scale is based on the long accepted premise that as distances increase the value of a length decreases. On the Brisnet Speed Ratings scale one length is approximately equal to 1 1/2 points in sprints and approximately 1 point in routes.

CAN BRISNET SPEED RATINGS BE COMPARED FROM DIFFERING DISTANCES?

Yes. Brisnet Speed Ratings have been designed to make easy comparisons of all races, regardless of distance. A speed rating of 85 in a sprint is theoretically equivalent to a speed rating of 85 in a route. However, a sprint speed rating of 85 does not mean that the same horse is capable of earning an 85 in a route race. Horses are individuals, not machines. Each horse has their own distance limitations.

WHAT ARE SOME TYPICAL SPEED RATINGS FOR 3&UP MALES?

  • BRIS SPEED
    • A typical Grade 1 stakes winner………………………………… 106
    • A typical “OPEN” Claiming $10,000 winner……………………. 88
    • A typical Maiden Claiming $10,000 winner……………………. 75

A typical winning Grade 1 stakes older male horse will earn a Brisnet Speed Rating of 106 or thereabout. Of course, these horses will often earn speed ratings much higher in their very best efforts. Flightline earned speed ratings as high as 117.