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Physical handicapping - from paddock to post parade

For horse racing bettors, a crucial reason for attending a racetrack, whenever possible, is to determine the physical and emotional condition of any selection upon which a wager is likely to be placed. The "paddock" is the area (often located behind the grandstand) to which runners are brought prior to a race. The authenticity of horses` identity is verified, thus negating the possibility of "ringers" (an entry being replaced by another horse) and the resident veterinary surgeon at the racetrack makes an examination of each runner, for safety purposes.

Paddock Appearance
There are several positive signs that can be gleaned from a horse`s appearance in the paddock. A bright, shiny coat is viewed as a plus, especially when accompanied by an attentive attitude and pricked ears. Many paddock judges regard a "bull neck" as a sign of constrained energy, a positive indicator for the upcoming race. Conversely, runners with flat, dull coats, ears laid flat back to the head, those displaying excessive sweating (perhaps a symptom of nervousness or a physical problem) or a lacklustre attitude can usually be dismissed from calculations. The runners are displayed openly for public examination for ½ hour prior to the race, removing the possibility of last-minute interference, such as doping. During this time, the horse is "tacked up" with bridle, saddle, girth, headgear etc. and mounted by the rider.

Post Parade Behaviour
Subsequently, there is a "post parade" when the horses / riders proceed from the paddock to the start. In this post parade, which takes about 10 minutes on the racetrack, a lead pony and rider is generally employed to accompany the horse to the starting gate. The reaction of a horse to the lead pony / rider can provide other valuable clues to its potential performance in the race. Unruly behaviour is obviously a bad sign, although a "playful" demeanour is regarded as an excellent indicator, again displaying controlled energy. Serious backers regard this final chance to evaluate horses` condition and temperament as an important advantage in predicting the results of horse races. Whilst CCTV attempts to convey as much of this pre-race activity as possible to the viewing public, there is no substitute for viewing the runners "in the flesh," and a decent pair of binoculars can prove invaluable.

Other Considerations
A horse that is well "turned out" for its racetrack appearance can be viewed as a positive sign. This means that all responsible for the horse`s care at its stable, from trainer to stable lad, have devoted time and attention. The paparazzi are always well represented in the winner`s enclosure and pictures of horses in peak condition provide an excellent advertisement for any training establishment. If the stable has prepared a runner well, it may mean an expected win or good performance. On the other hand, a horse that looks somewhat unkempt may have been entered in the race as a "non-trier," with the objective of gaining experience and / or a favourable handicap mark. With the possible exception of its trainer, a horse`s regular jockey has the best knowledge of the animal and its well-being (or otherwise). Older horses generally require a longer pre-race warm-up than their younger counterparts. If a rider is conservative in warming up an older horse, it may be a "protection" exercise, signifying a lack of fitness or an inherent physical problem. In contrast, a lively warm-up, with no excessive sweating or other "warning" signs may be viewed as a positive.

Coupled with horse racing tips, the paddock / post parade appearance and behaviour of a runner can lead to the successful selection of many horse race winners.



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