Equibase to Evaluate GPS Timing System

In light of reports questioning the accuracy of the Gmax timing system, which relies on GPS technology, Equibase announced Monday in a statement that it will conduct an “extensive analysis” of the systems that is in place at 11 racetracks and will look to increase quality control efforts with respect to the GPS timers.

The accuracy of the GPS method became such an issue for the team putting together the Beyer speed figures that they have been hand timing the races from the Gmax tracks and have been using those times when making their figures.

“My colleagues and I are relieved that Equibase has recognized the flaws with its GPS race timing,” Andy Beyer said. “Everybody in the sport should share this relief. Without precise times, nobody can evaluate horses properly. As Equibase moves forward with GPS technology, I hope it will be more careful to vet the product and make sure that any data it publishes will be accurate.”

Equibase said it will consult the figure-makers as it moves forward and attempts to improve the GPS system.

Gmax has been replacing the traditional timing method, which is a teletimer systems that involves beams. Beyer and others have contended that the beam system is more accurate than GPS. Equibase said that it will look to combine the two methods.

“The result should be better overall performance and a more comprehensive data set,” the announcement read.

In addition, Equibase said it will not replace the beam system with Gmax at any additional tracks “until we are satisfied that the replacement provides a similar or better level of accuracy.”

The statement in its entirety reads:

There have been recent reports about the timing accuracy of GPS technology that Equibase has deployed at several tracks. We are conducting an extensive analysis of these installations. In the meantime, we are increasing our quality control efforts with respect to the GPS timing data and have sought input from speed figure makers and others in the racing community. We are also working toward a more integrated timing and tracking solution that combines the times produced by the beam system with the positional data produced by GPS. Finally, we will not replace another beam system

   Equibase has served as the official database for Thoroughbred horse racing's performance data for more than 20 years. It is a responsibility that we take very seriously, and we will provide updates on our progress with GPS timing.