How to Calculate Thoroughbred Speed

Few things match the excitement of a thoroughbred race as the field makes the final turn and races toward the finish line. While other breeds, like the Quarter Horse, can reach full speed in shorter distances, the sheer majesty of the thoroughbred's long and graceful strides bring a certain poetry to the sport of kings. Of course, part of the excitement of thoroughbred racing also lies in trying to select a winner, something that handicappers do by looking at the distance, the track surface, the bloodlines, and the possible speeds each horse can attain.

Things You'll Need

  • A stopwatch
  • The distance of the race
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find out the distance to be covered. Most thoroughbred races are measured in miles and furlongs with a furlong equal to one-eight of a mile.

    • 2

      Use the stop watch to measure the time it takes the horse to cover a specific distance. If you are trying to determine a speed covered during a recognized race, the announcer will provide the winning time. Times for other horses may or may not be posted later, so you should probably time the specific horse you are interested in.

    • 3

      Using the formula Speed = Distance / Time, determine the speed in miles per hour.