Fractionals in Europe vis-a-vis America

General racing discussion.

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Jorge
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Fractionals in Europe vis-a-vis America

Postby Jorge » Fri May 31, 2013 10:30 am

Is there any figure we can refer to, to know or calibrate
the average fractional times clicked in European top-notch races
vis-a-vis American top-notch races?

I ask this question because I have noticed that the best
European horses tend to win, not only at intermedite distances,
but also at 10, 12 furlongs and even more. This due to what seems
like a more "processional" speed rating during the race, making them
perform better , thus being perceived as a more capable distance
horse than their American counterparts.

On the other hand, I have observed that you very rarely see
American horses with, supposedly, that kind of stamina.
The explanation seems to be that it is extremely unusual for
an European front runner to click blistering fractionals like we
see in, lets say, the American Triple Crown races.

If European horses are not clicking those blistering fractionals
it is more logical to expect them to perform better and to achieve
better racing records. But when both meet on equal terms where
tactical speed plays a big role (like when Tiznow beat Giants Causeway)
then the American horse seems to perform better than its Europen counterpart.

I ask to all of you: Is that true or a falsely perceived illusion?
Thanks for your analysis and evidenced opinions.


(p.s. The implications of this analysis surely affects their breeding
careers but that's another angle which can be analyzed under
the "Breeding" section.)

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dublino
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Postby dublino » Fri May 31, 2013 11:17 am

Times are never taken and never pop up screen or mentioned during commentary.
Nobody cares what fractions horses do only who crosses the finishing line first.

They tried to bring it in a while back as a trial for the TV so viewers could maybe understand how fast a race was but trainers in particular didn't want this and there was no support from the general public for this - this was in the UK.
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BenB
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Postby BenB » Sat Jun 01, 2013 6:33 am

Same in France and Germany, different tracks different times. Handicapping on times, are not very fruitfull. Looks to the preakness with it,s slow finish time. Responsible was the strong headwind and they gave it an renieuwed 106 beyer rating.

Look to the very fast times from the derby and the final time. The early hot speed, has not resulted in an fast finish time.