Speed Ratings Explained: How They Give You an Edge in Horse Racing

Want to spot real winners, not just favourites? Speed ratings are one of the most powerful—but often misunderstood—tools for horse racing bettors. They cut through the hype and show you which horses actually ran the fastest, making it easier to compare runners, even across different races and tracks.

What Are Speed Ratings?

Speed ratings are numbers assigned to horses based on how fast they ran in a race. Unlike just looking at finishing positions, speed ratings factor in the actual race time, the course and distance, the going (ground conditions), and sometimes even the weight carried. This helps you compare horses on a “level playing field,” no matter where or when they raced.

How Are Speed Ratings Calculated?

• Race Time: The official time taken to complete the race distance.
• Standard Time: A baseline or “par” time for that specific course and distance.
• Going Adjustment: A correction for how fast or slow the ground was on the day.
• Other Factors: Some ratings providers adjust for weight carried, race pace, or other variables.

The end result: a simple number (often 60–110 for flat racing) that tells you at a glance which horse has run the fastest under similar conditions.

Why Are Speed Ratings Useful?

• Spotting “hidden” form: Sometimes a horse runs a fast time but doesn’t win—these runners can be value bets next time out.
• Comparing across races: Speed ratings allow you to compare horses who ran in different races or at different tracks.
• Fact over hype: Ratings focus on performance, not reputation or tipster talk.

How Do Punters Use Speed Ratings?

1. Check which runners have the highest recent speed ratings.
2. Look for horses with several consistent, strong ratings (not just one fluke).
3. Combine speed ratings with form, distance suitability, and other factors for a fuller picture.
4. Watch for younger horses or improvers with rising figures—they’re often underrated by the market.

Where Can You Get Reliable Speed Ratings?

Some racing papers and websites provide basic speed ratings for free, but serious punters usually want more detail, better tools, and transparent calculations.

One of the UK’s most respected speed figure providers is Inform Racing, which has been delivering daily ratings and advanced system tools for over 20 years. Want to learn more about how Inform Racing works and if it’s right for you?

FAQ: Speed Ratings

• Are speed ratings always right?
  No system is perfect! Use them with other factors for best results.
• Do all sites use the same method?
  No—each provider has its own formula, so numbers may vary between sites.
• Should I only back the top speed rating?
  Not always. Look for value, consistency, and context.
• Do you need to be a pro to use speed ratings?
  No, but like any tool, practice makes perfect. Start by tracking how well they work for your style of betting.