Beyer Speed Figures

Question
Does Andy Beyer take into consideration the RU (Run Up Distance) distance when calculating  beyer numbers?

Answer
Hi Brian:

I have researched the matter and cannot find anything that indicates that Andy Beyer uses the RUD "run up distance" in his speed figures.  That doesn't mean that he doesn't use them - it just means that I can't find anything that says he does, so I have to assume that he does not.

In my research, I have found that Equibase uses the run up distance in their "Trackmaster Program" speed figures as indicated in the following article:

Run-Up Data Now Accounted for in Equibase Speed Figures
Written by trackmasterplus on October 19, 2009 ?9:00 am -


Although the data was made available back in May, we still get questions regarding the run-up data found in our past performances and charts. The basics of this new data element was discussed in a previous post. Since a full year抯 worth of data has now been recorded #Equibase chart callers began recording the run-ups last October#, we are now able to incorporate this data to increase the predictive performance of the Equibase Speed Figures and Pace Figures.

The run-up distance can have a large influence when calculating speed figures and especially when calculating pace figures. In the extreme, some run-up distances for the same distance, on the same track and the same surface, can vary widely. This is especially true for the turf races due to the measures taken to protect the grass from getting worn down. At a track such as Laurel Park for example, a mile and a sixteenth race on the turf can have a run-up distance as short as 20 feet and as long as 100 feet. By having the run-up distance recorded, the Equibase Speed Figures and even more so the Pace Figures, can be calculated much more accurately than ever before.

One of the advantages of having an automated process calculate speed figures rather than a real, live person, is that it makes it easier to test and implement any new data elements that are introduced. #Other advantages include the ability to easily create figures for all tracks, consistency in the figure making process, use of mathematical principals to determine unusual Track Variants, and the absence of any personal bias that might cause one to increase a horse抯 figure because of the horse抯 reputation or the reputation of the horse抯 connections.# The good news is that the inclusion of the run-up data in the figure making process, has made the Equibase Speed Figures and Pace Figures more accurate. We are currently in the middle of the process of putting the newly calculated figures in place. We are updating all of the figures from October 1st, 2008 forward. The update should be completed by the end of the week.

This update comes just in time for the Breeders?Cup and all of the TrackMaster and Equibase products will have the improved figures. The updated figures should help you pick more winners, more often on Breeders?Cup day and throughout the year.

Craig Walker
TrackMaster Senior Product Development Specialist

I hope the above article sheds a little light on your question.  If you feel I have assisted you, please leave a favorable rating.

Thanks again for your question.

Jim