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Originally Posted by the_fat_man
So, a 'slow-pace' can result in a race collapsing as well as a wire job?  If this is the case, then why bother noting the pace, why not just look at the final time? In other words, just the speed figures? But this wouldn't work either, would it, as 'slow' paces typically result in 'slow' final times.
And, it can't be the case that better horses are better able to handle 'slow-paces', because, they're consistently bent over by lesser rivals with 'pace' advantages as well.
Of course, in any other group race, having the lead is a HUGE disadvantage, no matter how 'slow" (or 'fast') the pace is. |
This was not a race that fell apart late. Treat Gently ran over the top of the field despite the slow pace.
Having the lead is not necessarily a huge disadvantage. It all depends upon race dynamics and distribution of energy; these principles apply in a sport such as track and field (in which I competed) just as they do in horse racing. Why else is that horses that are uncontested on loose leads are so dangerous in races? I'd put them at an advantage, not a disadvantage.