HOW ARE THE BRIS SPEED RATINGS CALCULATED ?
BRIS Speed Ratings are based on a variation of the "projection method" which some other popular speed figures are based. Unlike others, BRIS uses an objective, computer precise method to make the final time projections rather than using the subjective opinion of one handicapper. The past performances of every horse competing in a given field is examined with the painstaking detail only a computer can do. The projections generated by Bloodstock Research's computer system are based on proprietary techniques and algorithms which have been rigorously tested and long proven over hundreds of thousands of races. This computer precision enables the BRIS Speed Ratings to use the most accurate projections and variants possible.
ARE BRIS SPEED RATINGS COMPARABLE ACROSS DIFFERENT TRACKS ?
Yes. Since the ratings are "fully adjusted" (reflecting both daily and track-to-track variants), they are comparable across all North American racetracks.
HOW MANY SPEED POINTS REPRESENT ONE LENGTH ?
The BRIS Speed Ratings points-per-length scale is based on the long accepted premise that as distances increase the value of a length decreases. On the BRIS Speed Ratings scale one length is approximately equal to 1 1/2 pts in sprints and approximately 1 point in routes.
CAN BRIS SPEED RATINGS BE COMPARED FROM DIFFERING DISTANCES ?
Yes. BRIS Speed Ratings have been designed to make easy comparisons of all races, regardless of distance. A speed rating of 85 in a sprint is theoretically equivalent to a speed rating of 85 in a route. However, a sprint speed rating of 85 does not mean that the same horse is capable of earning an 85 in a route race. Horses are individuals, not machines - each horse has their own distance limitations.
WHAT ARE SOME TYPICAL SPEED RATINGS FOR 3&UP MALES?
BRIS
SPEED
A typical Grade I stakes winner .................... 106
A typical "OPEN" Claiming $10,000 winner ........... 88
A typical Maiden Claiming $10,000 winner ........... 75
A typical winning Grade I stakes older male horse will earn a BRIS Speed Rating of 106 or thereabout. Of course, these horses will often earn speed ratings much higher in their very best efforts. "Cigar" has earned speed ratings as high as 117.