Glossary

Glossary

TERM DEFINITION
ALL OUT When a horse has the lead and is under extreme pressure to hold off another rival. This comment is similar to "just lasted" and “fully extended”.
ALLOWED TO SETTLE When a horse is unhurried during the early stages of a race and allowed to gain its best stride before launching its bid. Similar to "unhurried early".
ALTERED COURSE Used during the running of a race when a horse is forced to change paths. Generally used in the stretch run.
ANGLED IN When the rider on an unimpeded horse elects to alter their mount's running path inside to avoid potential congestion. This generally occurs when the horse is entering the stretch and is a gradual move.
ANGLED OUT When the rider on an unimpeded horse elects to alter their mount's running path outside to avoid potential congestion. This generally occurs when the horse is entering the stretch and is a gradual move.
AS RIDER PLEASED When a horse has the victory secured and the margin of victory is determined by the amount of pressure exerted by the rider.
ASSUMED COMMAND When a horse gains the lead at any point during the race. It should be used in conjunction with a position on the track (assumed command quarter pole). Similar to "gained command".
ATTEMPTED TO WHEEL Used at the start when a horse ducks either in or out sharply. The horse crosses over at least three stall lengths in front of the starting gate, then is straightened away. The horse should be well behind the rest of the field after being straightened.
AWAY ALERTLY Used exclusively at the start and only when horses break much quicker than the rest of the field. There should not be more than one or two horses that break sharply in the same race. This comment is similar to "broke sharply".
BEST STRIDE LATE When a horse is generally outrun during the early stages, then gets into gear too late to overtake the leaders. The horse finishes with good energy and in most instances, is moving fastest at the wire.
BETWEEN HORSES When a horse has horses on both sides of it.
BID, HUNG Used during the running of a race when a horse races up alongside the leader(s) and looks like it is going to emerge as the winner, then cannot gain further on the leaders and finishes evenly.
BLED When a horse bleeds from the nostrils either during the running of a race, or when returning to be unsaddled and is confirmed with a racing official.
BLOCKED Used when a horse tries to make a move during the race and has no room to run due to the fact that there are horses in front of him it. Generally, when horses are blocked, they have to be “steadied” or “checked” and those comments are often used together.
BOBBLED Used primarily at the start, but can be used in other instances; such as horses may "bobble" when they break awkwardly in tight quarters. This comment is similar to "broke in tangle" and "stumbled".
BOLTED Used on the turns when a horse bears out sharply. More severe than "bore out" due to the fact that it bears out very quickly and ends up well past the middle of the track.
BORE IN When a horse continues to move inward in a quick, uncontrolled move. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on shot on the video tape replays. Similar to "lugged in".
BORE OUT The exact opposite of "bore in". Similar to "lugged out".
BOXED When a horse is covered up in traffic, often on the turn, and is firmly in hand by its rider due to the close quarters. Associated comments include “waited” or “idling”. Not as severe a traffic impediment as “BLOCKED”.
BRIEF FOOT When a horse shows speed during the early stages of a race, then tires.
BRIEF SPEED When a horse shows some early speed, then backs out of contention.
BROKE IN Broke at an angle inward, often bothering inner rivals. Not as severe as “veered in start” or “ducked in start”.
BROKE IN AIR When a horse's front legs leave the ground at the start and it breaks poorly. Of course, all horses' legs are off the ground a bit, but in this instance, it is well up in the air, compromising its position. In most cases, horses that break in the air should be carried as a "good for all but." in the start line.
BROKE IN TANGLE Used at the start when a horse gets away awkwardly or the ground breaks away under it and it takes it a while to find its best stride. Generally, horses that break in a tangle should be listed as " good for all but" in the start line. Similar to "bobbled" and "stumbled".
BROKE OUT Broke at an angle outward, often bothering outer rivals. Not as severe as “veered out start” or “ducked out start”.
BROKE SHARPLY Used exclusively at the start and only when horses break much quicker than the rest of the field. There should not be more than one or two horses that break sharply in the same race. This comment is similar to "away alertly".
BROKE SLOWLY Used at the start when the horse has no other excuse other than the fact that he it broke a bit behind the rest of the field. The horse was not bumped, steadied, bobbled or unprepared for the start, just came away from the gate a bit tardy. Similar to "off slowly".
BROKE THROUGH Used at the start when a horse forces its way through the starting gate prior to the start.
BROKEN EQUIPMENT When horses bear out or bolt on the turns, it is a good idea to check to see if the horse has some broken equipment including reins, irons, etc.
BRUSHED When a horse either makes slight contact with a rival or has the contact initiated by another horse. Similar to "bumped" but less severe.
BUCKED Generally used at the start or shortly thereafter. Instead of settling into stride, a horse is erratic and rank, looking similar to a bucking horse in a rodeo.
BUCKLED START Bending on all knees at the start when losing rear footing as the ground gives way under the pressure of the horse propelling oneself from the gate.
BUMPED When a horse is bumped by another horse who initiates the bumping. Should be accompanied by another explanatory word such as bumped rival or bumped by rival.
CAME AGAIN When a horse has the lead, loses it to a rival, then regains ground. The horse does not necessarily have to win, but should be gaining ground on the leaders at the finish.
CARRIED OUT When another rival forces a horse out. Similar to "forced out and "forced wide".
CHASED When a horse is running in close attendance to the leader without challenging for the lead.
CHECKED When a jockey abruptly takes up her/his mount, changing the horse’s stride due to the fact that it has encountered traffic trouble. If the incident is not severe you may use checked briefly, or if the incident is more pronounced, checked sharply. This comment is similar to "steadied" although is generally considered to be of greater magnitude.
CHECKED REPEATEDLY Used when a horse has to steady or take up a number of times when racing in tight quarters See CHECKED for a more detailed explanation.
CIRCLED FIELD When a horse is forced to go widest to reach contention. It is applicable when a horse must pass four or more rivals.
CLEAR LEAD When a horse is at least two or more lengths in front of the field at any point in the race.
CLEARED When a horse opens a daylight advantage on the field. Can be used with terms such as: “cleared on his own courage; hustled clear; asked to clear”.
CLIMB, CLIMBED, CLIMBING When a horses’ front feet are raised higher than normal or reaching out further than normal while running, which makes it look like they are trying to “climb.” Some causes can be lack of racing experience or being hit with kickback.
CLIPPED HEELS When a horse runs up behind a rival, or is caught in tight quarters and its front legs clip the hind legs of the horse directly in front of it. This can be determined due to the fact that the jockey on the horse must take up sharply on her/his horse, altering its stride dramatically. In many instances, the jockey may lose her/his irons in the process, or the horse may fall.
CLOSE UP When a horse is racing in good position, generally a few lengths behind the leaders.
CLOSED FAST When a horse is finishing the race with good speed, gaining lengths on the leaders.
CLOSED GAP When a horse gains ground on the leaders through the stretch run.
CLOSED WILLINGLY When a horse makes up ground steadily through the late stages of a race. Similar to "rallied, "finished well" and "late rally".
CLOSED WITH A RUSH When a horse is moving fastest of all through the late stages of a race, gaining on the leaders with every stride.
CONTENDED When a horse is within striking range, generally within five lengths of the leaders.
DISTANCED When a horse is badly outrun, generally 25 lengths or more behind the next closest finisher but still finishes the race.
DREW CLEAR When a horse moves to the lead at a point in the race and opens up a margin over the closest pursuer of one length or more.
DREW EVEN When a horse draws nose to nose with the leader.
DREW OFF When a horse gains the lead and then opens a clear advantage. It is used only when a horse is in front, however, it does not necessarily mean that a horse has to win. (drew off turn, weakened mid stretch).
DRIFTED This comment is a less severe description of horses that "bore out" or "bolted". It pertains only to a horse's course through the stretch run and can be determined only by reviewing the head on shot of the video tape replay. Horses that drift do so gradually. Any other more deliberate movements to the outside should be classified as "bore out" or "bolted".
DRIVING Used only for the winner and describes a horse that is under constant pressure, either through steady urging or a strong hand ride to prevail.
DROPPED BACK Used to describe a horse that raced close up during the early portion of a race then lost ground. Generally, it should be used in conjunction with "brief speed".
DUCKED IN GAP When a horse ducks into a gap between the temporary railing put up for some races that come out of a chute, then makes a sharp left hand turn onto the main track.
DUELED When two horses are head and head for the lead for an extended period of time.
DULL EFFORT Describes a horse that is either the favorite or well supported that produces a particularly poor performance in relation to that implied by its short odds.
DWELT Used only at the start describing a horse that stays in the gate after the rest of the field has broken and then breaks three or more lengths behind the rest of the field. More severe than hesitated, just short of refused.
EASED When a horse is well behind the leaders and its rider has determined that the horse is hopelessly beaten and allows it to gallop along under no pressure to the wire.
EASILY When a horse wins a race and is under no pressure at any point during the race to control its rivals. Care should be taken not to overuse this term.
EDGED Gradually clearing late following a grinding battle. E.g. edged clear, edged away, similar to inched clear.
EMPTY When a horse is in contention, then is asked to respond by its jockey, either through the use of the crop or strong hand urging. If the horse does not respond to these tactics, it comes up empty.
EQUINE AMBULANCE Abbreviated Eq Amb - Designates when a horse is transported off of the track to assure animal welfare.
ERRATIC When a horse races runs in spots or moves to contention, drops back, comes on again and drops back. Sometimes can be used to describe young horses with little or no racing experience that swerve in and out.
EVENLY When a horse maintains a relative position and margin behind the leaders throughout the entire race and never offers much of a bid.
FADED When a horse races in contention during the early stages of a race, then drops back.
FAILED TO MENACE Describes a horse's entire performance when it fails to be a factor at any point during the race. Generally, the horse raced near the back of the field the entire race and did not offer a bid or gain significantly on the leaders at any point. This comment is similar to "no threat", "no factor" and "outrun".
FAILED TO RESPOND When a horse has moved into contention and lacks that final closing kick that could carry it to victory, or a horse that is well placed from the outset, but cannot muster a rally. This comment is similar to "lacked late response" and "no rally".
FAILED TO SUSTAIN BID When a horse moves to contention at some point during the race then lacks a further response and either finishes evenly or drops back.
FALTERED When a horse loses ground after becoming a factor during the race and backs off the leaders. Used generally in the late stages of the race. This comment is similar to "gave way", "tired" and "weakened".
FAR BACK When a horse is more than 20 lengths behind the leaders.
FAST PACE When the leading horses in a race set fractional times that are substantially faster than normal for the distance.
FELL When a horse falls usually caused by a number of factors including clipping heels, stumbling, tripping over a downed rival, or even taking a bad step. It should be accompanied by another comment such as "clipped heels", "stumbled" or "fell over rival".
FINISHED WELL When a horse closed a good deal of ground through the stretch run. This comment is similar to "closed willingly" and "late rally".
FLATTENED OUT When a horse moves to a contending position then cannot gain significantly and finishes evenly.
FLIPPED IN GATE Used only at the start to describe a horse that is acting up in the gate, then rears up and either falls backward or becomes hung up in the gate. In nearly all instances, the horse also loses its rider in the process.
FORCED OUT When a horse is forced to race wide due to the fact that another horse is either getting out or bolting. It is possible that there are three or four horses across the track, which forces a horse very wide to gain contention. This comment is similar to "carried out" and "forced wide".
FORCED WIDE When a horse is forced to race wide due to the fact that another horse is either getting out or bolting. It is possible that there are three or four horses across the track, which forces a horse very wide to gain contention. This comment is similar to "carried out" and "forced out".
FRACTIOUS IN GATE Used only at the start when horses are acting up more than normal in the starting gate. It can also be used for a horse that unseats its rider or takes an unusually long time to enter the starting gate.
FRACTIOUS POST PARADE When a horse is acting up considerably during the post parade. He could be lunging in the air, running off despite the efforts of its jockey, or generally being unruly.
FULL OF RUN When a horse is gaining ground quickly on the leaders during the stretch run.
FULLY EXTENDED When a horse wins a race but has been put to extreme pressure by its rider to hold off rivals. Similar to “ALL OUT”.
GAINED COMMAND When a horse gains the lead at any point during the race. It should be used in conjunction with a position on the track (gained command quarter pole). This comment is similar to "assumed command".
GAINING Although this comment is similar to "best stride late" and "finished well", there is a subtle difference in that this type of rally is more of a slow, steady gain rather than a quicker burst of speed associated with the other two terms.
GAMELY Horses that either narrowly miss victory or have repelled challengers to gain a narrow win. He has either dueled for command from the outset and gave way grudgingly in the late stages or lasted.
GAVE WAY When a horse loses ground after becoming a factor during the race and backs off the leaders. Used generally in the late stages of the race. Similar to "faltered" and "weakened".
GOOD EARLY SPEED Horses that break alertly and race up near the leaders then tires.
GOOD EFFORT Similar to "gamely" with a slightly different meaning. This is more of an editorial comment for a horse that turned in a solid performance, but failed to come away with a victory for any number of reasons. He could have overcome traffic problems, dueled for command throughout, or may have been forced to race wide throughout while finishing well and may have been the best with better racing luck.
GOOD POSITION When a horse is well placed off the leaders, offering the opportunity to rally for the victory.
GOT THROUGH When a horse is able to successfully move into an opening, either along the rail or between horses.
GREENLY Generally used for horses with little or no racing experience. They race forwardly, drop back, then come again, or weave in and out during the stretch run. Similar to, but not exactly the same as "erratic".
HANDILY Used only to describe a winner's performance, when a horse is well in command into the final furlong, under no encouragement and is taken well in hand by its rider.
HARD USED A horse that was hard ridden during some stage of the race, generally to keep up with another horse while dueling for the lead. In most instances, a horse that is hard used will tire during the late stages.
HEADED When a horse has the lead, then another rival briefly gains a short advantage.
HELD PLACE When a horse finishes second but has enough left to hold off the rest of the field. Interchangeable with held 2nd.
HELD SWAY When a horse maintains control over a rival directly behind it at the wire. Similar phrase is “held rival safe” in the late going.
HELD WELL When a horse finished well enough to hold its position through the stretch run.
HIT GATE Used only at the start to describe a horse that bounces off the side of the gate at the break. This incident can only be seen through reviewing the head on videotape replay of the race.
HIT RAIL Used when a horse hits the inner rail at some point during the race A horse could hit the rail for a number of reasons including ducking in due to its own efforts, or being forced in by another horse when in tight quarters.
HIT WITH RIVALS CROP This generally occurs during the stretch drive when two horses are dueling or the lead and are lapped on one another With both riders hitting their mounts; it is possible for one horse to be hit by the other rider's crop inadvertently.
HOPPED When both of a horse’s front (and sometimes back) feet vertically leave the ground simultaneously at the start which often results in a delayed break.
HUNG When a horse looks like he is going to emerge as the winner, driving right up alongside the leader(s) but just does not have enough to go by, and flattens out or finishes evenly.
HUSTLED When a jockey keeps urging the horse to keep up or maintain position either by the use of the crop or strong hand urging.
IMPROVED POSITION When a horse betters his position, usually through the stretch, by passing rivals. It does not have to coincide with reducing the horse’s margin in relation to the winner, merely that it has improved on its finish position from where it was earlier in the race.
IN HAND Used to describe a riding style in which the jockey is trying to conserve a horse's energy for the later stages of a race. It can be used for a horse running on the lead, with the rider slowing down the pace, or for a late running horse that does not want to be rushed before launching its bid.
IN TIGHT When a horse experiences traffic troubles during a certain point of the race and lacks racing room due to bunching of the field or the jockey has to check or steady in traffic. This comment is similar to "pinched back" and "squeezed".
INSIDE Describes a horse's positioning on the track and is just as important as noting how wide a horse has raced.
JOCKEY CLAIMED FOUL When a jockey claimed foul against another horse in the field but the stewards determined that there was insufficient evidence to warrant a disqualification. Obviously, the rider felt that he was impeded in some manner and might be a benefit to handicappers in the horse's next race.
JUMPED SHADOW When a horse jumps shadows that cover the track. The horse will leave its feet and be thrown off stride for a brief time.
JUMPED TRACKS When a horse jumps the marks left across the racing surface by the starting gate. The horse will leave its feet and be thrown off stride for a brief time. ** or transferring from turf/dirt/turf **
JUST LASTED Used only for a winner, this comment describes a horse that was struggling to hold on to a diminishing lead, but did hang on for the victory. This comment is similar to "all out”.
JUST MISSED Describes a horse that was gaining ground with every stride and with just a bit more ground, would likely have emerged with a win. Horses that "just missed" have been beaten in a photo finish.
LACKED LATE RESPONSE When a horse has moved into contention and lacks that final closing kick that could carry it to victory, or a horse that is well placed from the outset, but cannot muster a rally.
LATE GAIN When a horse closes ground through the stretch run, finishing closer to the leaders than he was when entering the stretch.
LATE RALLY When a horse steadily gained ground through the stretch run after racing off the pace. This comment is similar to "finished well” and "gaining”.
LED BETWEEN CALLS When a horse gains the lead between points of call but is not in front at the next point of call. This comment provides helpful information for handicappers.
LED THROUGHOUT When a horse wins the race in front running fashion, leading every step of the way.
LEFT HANDED URGING When a horse was under strong left handed urging by the jockey.
LONG DRIVE When a horse was kept to pressure for an unusually long period of time. Most horses have a burst of speed for about an eighth of a mile, however, others can prevail after a long drive.
LOOMED BOLDLY When a horse moves rapidly to take aim on the leader(s) for the lead.
LOST ACTION When a horse breaks their normal stride momentarily. The reasons for a horse to lose action can include encountering traffic problems or a reaction related to the track.
LOST CROP When a jockey loses their crop during the running of a race. The best way to find if a rider lost their crop is to closely review the head on videotape replay. When a rider loses their crop it is important to indicate where they lost it.
LOST GROUND When a horse loses lengths between points of call. In many instances, a horse loses ground when he is forced to race wide or encounters traffic problems.
LOST IRON(S) When a jockey loses one or both of their stirrups during the race. In many instances a rider loses their irons at the start when a horse does not break cleanly and throws it off balance, or when a horse stumbles or checks sharply in traffic. The best way to find if a rider lost their irons is to closely review the head on videotape replay.
LOST JOCKEY When a rider falls off their horse. Horses lose their riders frequently at the start when they stumble, or when a rider has to avoid other fallen horses or riders during a spill.
LUGGED IN When a horse pulls inward, generally during the stretch run despite the rider's efforts. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on short on the video tape replays. This comment is similar to "bore in".
LUGGED OUT When a horse pulls outward, generally during the stretch run despite its rider's efforts. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on short on the video tape replays. This comment is similar to "bore out".
LUNGED START Used only at the start describing a horse that lunges into the air at the break. This comment is similar to "broke in air" but not quite as severe.
MIDDLE MOVE When a horse moves quickly to contention during the middle stages of a race.
MIDPACK When a horse races in the midrange of horses in the field. (A horse running fifth, sixth or seventh in a field of twelve is racing in the middle of pack).
MILD BID When a horse makes a slight gain in ground to move within challenging range.
MILD RALLY When a horse makes up ground during the stretch run. In this instance, the gain is minimal.
MUCH THE BEST Used only to describe a winning horse that has won the race authoritatively and was the superior animal on this particular day.
NEVER FAR BACK Used to describe a horse that raced in good position during the early stages of a race. This comment is similar to "well placed".
NICELY RATED Used to describe a riding style when a jockey did a good job of either slowing down the pace, or conserving a horse's energy. A horse that was nicely rated was allowed to relax, and more often than not produced a good effort.
NO FACTOR A horse that failed to be prominent at any point during a race. This comment is similar to "dull effort", "failed to menace", "no threat" and "outrun".
NO MATCH FOR WINNER Used only with a horse that finished second to a clearly superior horse, but the horse in question was second best.
NO RALLY When a horse is in position to be a sharp factor then lacked the needed response once called upon. This comment is similar to "failed to respond" and "lacked late response".
NO SPEED When a horse shows no early speed under urging.
NO THREAT Describes a horse's entire performance when it was not a factor during any part of a race. This comment is similar to "failed to menace", "no factor" and "outrun”.
OFF SLOWLY Used only at the start when a horse breaks cleanly but a few lengths slower than the rest of the field. Horses that are off slowly do not necessarily have to be noted in the "good for all but..." category in the start line. This comment is similar to "broke slowly".
OUTFINISHED Used to describe a horse that is in sharp contention during the late stages of a race, then lacked the needed surge to gain a victory. The horse may be turning in its best effort, but may not be good enough on this particular day.
OUTRUN Describes a horse's entire performance when it races well back during the entire race. The horse was either overmatched or for some reason or other was never a factor in the outcome of the race. This comment is similar to "dull effort", "failed to menace", "no factor", and "no threat".
PASSED TIRING RIVALS When a horse gains position, but only due to the fact that others in the race are tiring and it is finishing evenly. The horse in question is moving up in racing position (moving from eighth to sixth position), but is not gaining ground significantly on the leaders.
PATH Depth on track when no rivals are immediately toward their inside. The 3 path would be 3 off of the rail without horses next to them as opposed to 3 wide where 2 rivals are immediately to their inside.
PERFECT TRIP Describes a horse that has experienced no traffic trouble during the race and was not forced to race wide at any point (saved ground). This comment is an aid to the serious handicappers, and in particular, trip handicappers.
PINCHED BACK Generally used at the start when a horse is forced to steady slightly when one rival comes in and another comes out leaving the horse with no room to run and forcing the horse to steady or check. It can also be used during the running of a race and is similar to "in tight" and "squeezed".
PRESSED PACE When a horse has good speed and is forcing the pace set by a rival or rivals.
PREVAILED Used only for a winner when a horse has been put to an extended drive with stiff competition and emerged with a game win.
PROBABLY BEST When a horse should have won the race, but does not due to factors such as having to steady at a critical point in the race. This term is rarely used.
PULLED UP Describes a horse that does not finish a race and the jockey is trying to bring their mount to a complete stop due to a number of reasons, generally unsoundness.
QUICK MOVE When a horse advances on the leader very rapidly.
RALLIED When a horse makes is gaining ground significantly through the stretch run. This comment is similar to "closed willingly", "finished well" and "late rally".
RAN OFF POST PARADE When a horse is fractious or rank in the post parade and gets the best of its rider and runs off prior or during the warm up period.
RANK Describes a horse that is fighting its jockey and is unmanageable.
REFUSED TO BREAK Used only at the start when a horse stands in the starting gate after the gates have opened and will not come out. Horses that "refuse to break" must be listed as a "good for all but..." in the start line.
RELUCTANT TO LOAD When a horse is fractious entering the starting gate and delays the start for an unusual period of time.
RETREATED Describes a horse forwardly placed early to midway through the race and drops back or fades. Interchangeable with steady fade.
RIDDEN OUT Used only for the winner when the horse is under intermittent urging by its rider or under a mild hand ride through the final furlong.
RIGHT HANDED URGING When a horse was under strong right handed urging by the jockey.
ROUGH TRIP Describes a horse that experienced a number of incidents that compromised its chances of winning (steadied at the start, was in tight on the turn, forced to alter course).
ROUGHED Describes a horse that has experienced severe contact at the start, worse than bumped or jostled.
ROUSED When a jockey asks their mount to respond, either by strong hand urging or by using the crop.
RUSHED TO CONTENTION When a horse makes a quick move to become a sharp factor. The horse may either sustain its bid, or flatten out.
RUSHED TO LEAD When a horse makes a quick move from off the leaders to take command.
SADDLE SLIPPED When the saddle has moved either backward or sideways. In most instances when a horse's saddle slips the jockey loses proper balance and cannot control their mount.
SAVAGED When a horse that is quite competitive is dueling with another rival and reaches out attempting to bite them. This situation generally is best observed when reviewing the head on videotape replay.
SAVED GROUND When a horse is allowed to stay inside, just off the inner rail throughout the race.
SECOND BEST Used only for a horse that finishes second and is clearly superior to the rest of horses in the field.
SECOND FLIGHT When a horse is racing in the second group of horses in a race. Generally, there is a group of horses dueling for the lead, then another group a few lengths back.
SET PACE Describes a horse that has led at any point during a race. This comment can be used in conjunction with a position on the track (set pace for a half, set pace to deep stretch).
SET PRESSURED PACE When a horse is racing on the lead, but has a rival in close pursuit less than a length back.
SHOWED LITTLE Describes a horse's entire race performance and was not in contention at any point during the race.
SHUFFLED BACK In most instances, this comment is used at the start, when a horse becomes sandwiched between rivals. The horse does not have to steady, however it does lose valuable position. This comment may also be used when horses are bunched and lose position.
SHUT OFF When a horse has established position and a rival moves into their path without sufficient clearance, in most cases a jockey will be forced to steady or check.
SLIPPED THROUGH When a horse moves forward either between horses or between a horse and the inner rail through a narrow opening it may be described as "slipped through".
SLOW EARLY Generally reserved to describe a running style for stretch runners that have to settle into stride for a period of time before launching their bid.
SLOW PACE When the fractional times of a race are substantially slower than the average times for that distance.
SPEED Used in conjunction with a position on the track to indicate that a horse was prominent to this point (speed to upper stretch, speed for a half).
SPLIT HORSES When a horse moves between horses to gain contention.
SQUEEZED Generally used at the start when a horse is sandwiched between rivals losing valuable ground and position. It is similar to "pinched back" and "in tight".
STALKED PACE When a horse is allowed to press the pace while still in hand.
STEADIED When a jockey has to take a strong hold on their mount due to the fact that it is experiencing traffic trouble. In most cases, a horse that has been steadied and is thrown off stride momentarily. If the incident is not severe you may use steadied briefly, or if the incident is more pronounced, steadied sharply. This comment is similar to "checked” though not as dramatic.
STEADY ADVANCE When a horse made constant, even progress to contention.
STOPPED When a gives way suddenly or races forwardly and tires badly.
STUMBLED When a horse either loses its footing at the start or is scrambling to regain its best stride.
SWERVED When a horse changes course suddenly either inward or outward.
SWUNG WIDE When a horse is taken farther out from the inner rail to secure racing room.
TAKEN BACK When a rider restrains their horse during the early stages of a race. In most instances, this tactic is used by a rider when the pace is too fast, or to allow a late running horse to settle into stride before launching its bid.
TAKEN UP When a horse encounters a traffic problem forcing its rider to pull up on the reins. It generally forces a horse to alter its stride and lose ground.
THROUGH AFTER HALF When a horse is prominent during the first half mile of a race, either setting or prompting the pace, then tires significantly.
THROUGH EARLY When a horse shows brief speed then drops back during the early stages of a race.
TIRED When a horse races forwardly for some period of time during a race, then loses ground. Used generally in the late stages of the race. This comment is similar to "faltered", "gave way" and "weakened.
TRAILED When a horse is racing last during any portion of the race.
UNCHALLENGED When a horse is racing on the lead with no pressure exerted by its rivals.
UNHURRIED EARLY When a horse is allowed to settle into stride before launching its bid. This comment is similar to "allowed to settle".
UNPREPARED START There are a number of instances when this comment can be used. The most common is when a horse has its head turned sideways when the starter opens the gate and breaks poorly. There are also instances when the rider is unprepared for the start.
UNRULY GATE Used only at the start when horses are acting up more than normal in the starting gate. It can also be used for a horse that unseats its rider or takes an unusually long time to enter the starting gate.
UP FOR PLACE When a horse finishes well to finish second.
UP IN FINAL STRIDES Used only for the winner when it rallies from off the pace and finishes determinedly to get the victory in the late stages.
VEERED IN / OUT Describes a sudden sharp move either inwardly or outwardly.
VIED FOR LEAD When a horse is dueling for command with another rival or rivals.
VOID OF EARLY SPEED When a horse assumes an early position near or at the back the field.
WASHY POST PARADE Used when a horse is unusually wet when coming onto the track and in some instances is lathered up in the neck area and between its hind legs. In some instances, on very hot days all horses will be wet on the track. Use this comment only when a horse's condition is not comparable with others in the field.
WEAKENED When a horse loses ground after becoming a factor during the race and backs off the leaders. Used generally in the late stages of the race. This comment is similar to "faltered", "gave way" and "tired.
WELL HANDLED When a horse is on the lead and the jockey allows it to relax nicely, many times slowing down the pace to increase its chance of victory.
WELL PLACED Used to describe a horse that raced in contention during the early stages of a race well within striking position. This comment is similar to "never far back.
WELL RATED Describes a jockey's handling of their mount. It generally applies to a horse that is on the lead and the jockey allows their mount to relax nicely, many times slowing down the pace to enhance the chance of victory.
WHEELED GATE Used only at the start. This comment refers to an instance when a horse makes either a sharp right or left turn immediately out of the starting gate and is pulled up.
WIDE When the depth on the track is determined by rivals to a horse’s immediate inside. A horse 3 wide would have 2 horses next to it on the inside as opposed to 3 path where there is no rival immediately to the inside.
WIDE EARLY When a horse is forced to race wide (at least five or more horses wide) during the early stages of a race.
WORE DOWN RIVALS Use this comment only with winners. This describes a horse that closed determinedly to get up for victory after a prolonged drive.
YIELDED When a horse gains or holds the advantage, however small and usually in the latter stages of the race, only to relent to another challenging rival.
Start Trouble by Degree of Severity
TERM DEFINITION
BROKE IN Broke at an angle inward, often bothering inner rivals. Not as severe as “veered in start” or “ducked in start”.
BROKE OUT Broke at an angle outward, often bothering outer rivals. Not as severe as “veered out start” or “ducked out start”.
BROKE THROUGH Used at the start when a horse forces its way through the starting gate prior to the start.
OFF SLOW Used at the start when the horse has no other excuse other than the fact that it broke a bit behind the rest of the field. The horse was not bumped, steadied, bobbled or unprepared for the start, just came away from the gate a bit tardy. Similar to "off slowly".
BROKE SLOWLY Used at the start when the horse has no other excuse other than the fact that it broke a bit behind the rest of the field. The horse was not bumped, steadied, bobbled or unprepared for the start, just came away from the gate a bit tardy. Similar to "off slowly".
BOBBLED Used primarily at the start, but can be used in other instances; such as horses may "bobble" when they break awkwardly in tight quarters. This comment is similar to "broke in tangle" and "stumbled".
HOPPED When both of a horse’s front (and sometimes back) feet vertically leave the ground simultaneously at the start which often results in a delayed break.
PINCHED BACK Generally used at the start when a horse is forced to steady slightly when one rival comes in and another comes out leaving the horse with no room to run and forcing the horse to steady or check. It can also be used during the running of a race and is similar to "in tight" and "squeezed".
LUNGED START Used only at the start describing a horse that lunges into the air at the break. This comment is similar to "broke in air" but not quite as severe.
STUMBLED When a horse either loses its footing at the start or is scrambling to regain its best stride
ROUGHED Describes a horse that has experienced severe contact at the start, worse than bumped or jostled.
BROKE IN TANGLE Used at the start when a horse gets away awkwardly or the ground breaks away under it and it takes it a while to find its best stride. Generally, horses that break in a tangle should be listed as " good for all but" in the start line. Similar to "bobbled" and "stumbled".
BROKE IN AIR When a horse's front legs leave the ground at the start and it breaks poorly. Of course, all horses' legs are off the ground a bit, but in this instance, it is well up in the air, compromising its position. In most cases, horses that break in the air should be carried as a "good for all but." in the start line.
UNPREPARED START There are a number of instances when this comment can be used. The most common is when a horse has its head turned sideways when the starter opens the gate and breaks poorly. There are also instances when the rider is unprepared for the start.
DWELT Used only at the start describing a horse that stays in the gate after the rest of the field has broken and then breaks three or more lengths behind the rest of the field. More severe than hesitated, just short of refused.
WHEELED GATE Used only at the start. This comment refers to an instance when a horse makes either a sharp right or left turn immediately out of the starting gate and is pulled up.
REFUSED TO BREAK Used only at the start when a horse stands in the starting gate after the gates have opened and will not come out. Horses that "refuse to break" must be listed as a "good for all but..." in the start line.
In-Race Trouble by Degree of Severity
TERM DEFINITION
BRUSHED When a horse either makes slight contact with a rival or has the contact initiated by another horse. Similar to "bumped" but less severe.
BUMPED When a horse is bumped by another horse who initiates the bumping. Should be accompanied by another explanatory word such as bumped rival or bumped by rival.
CARRIED OUT When another rival forces a horse out. Similar to "forced out and "forced wide".
FORCED OUT When a horse is forced to race wide due to the fact that another horse is either getting out or bolting. It is possible that there are three or four horses across the track, which forces a horse very wide to gain contention. This comment is similar to "carried out" and "forced wide".
FORCED WIDE When a horse is forced to race wide due to the fact that another horse is either getting out or bolting. It is possible that there are three or four horses across the track, which forces a horse very wide to gain contention. This comment is similar to "carried out" and "forced out".
IN TIGHT When a horse experiences traffic troubles during a certain point of the race and lacks racing room due to bunching of the field or the jockey has to check or steady in traffic. This comment is similar to "pinched back" and "squeezed".
SQUEEZED Generally used at the start when a horse is sandwiched between rivals losing valuable ground and position. It is similar to "pinched back" and "in tight".
LUGGED IN When a horse pulls inward, generally during the stretch run despite the rider's efforts. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on short on the video tape replays. This comment is similar to "bore in".
LUGGED OUT When a horse pulls outward, generally during the stretch run despite its rider's efforts. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on short on the video tape replays. This comment is similar to "bore out".
BORE IN When a horse continues to move inward in a quick, uncontrolled move. This situation can be seen best when reviewing the head on shot on the video tape replays. Similar to "lugged in".
BORE OUT The exact opposite of "bore in". Similar to "lugged out".
BOXED When a horse is covered up in traffic, often on the turn, and is firmly in hand by its rider due to the close quarters. Associated comments include “waited” or “idling”. Not as severe a traffic impediment as “BLOCKED”.
SHUFFLED BACK In most instances, this comment is used at the start, when a horse becomes sandwiched between rivals. The horse does not have to steady, however it does lose valuable position. This comment may also be used when horses are bunched and lose position.
STEADIED When a jockey has to take a strong hold on their mount due to the fact that it is experiencing traffic trouble. In most cases, a horse that has been steadied and is thrown off stride momentarily. If the incident is not severe you may use steadied briefly, or if the incident is more pronounced, steadied sharply. This comment is similar to "checked” though not as dramatic.
BLOCKED Used when a horse tries to make a move during the race and has no room to run due to the fact that there are horses in front of him it. Generally, when horses are blocked, they have to be “steadied” or “checked” and those comments are often used together.
DUCKED IN GAP When a horse ducks into a gap between the temporary railing put up for some races that come out of a chute, then makes a sharp left hand turn onto the main track.
SHUT OFF When a horse has established position and a rival moves into their path without sufficient clearance, in most cases a jockey will be forced to steady or check.
CHECKED When a jockey abruptly takes up her/his mount, changing the horse’s stride due to the fact that it has encountered traffic trouble. If the incident is not severe you may use checked briefly, or if the incident is more pronounced, checked sharply. This comment is similar to "steadied" although is generally considered to be of greater magnitude.
CHECKED REPEATEDLY Used when a horse has to steady or take up a number of times when racing in tight quarters See CHECKED for a more detailed explanation.
TAKEN UP When a horse encounters a traffic problem forcing its rider to pull up on the reins. It generally forces a horse to alter its stride and lose ground.
BOLTED Used on the turns when a horse bears out sharply. More severe than "bore out" due to the fact that it bears out very quickly and ends up well past the middle of the track.
CLIPPED HEELS When a horse runs up behind a rival, or is caught in tight quarters and its front legs clip the hind legs of the horse directly in front of it. This can be determined due to the fact that the jockey on the horse must take up sharply on her/his horse, altering its stride dramatically. In many instances, the jockey may lose her/his irons in the process, or the horse may fall.