In an effort to provide more accurate and consistent timing for horses across all distances, Assiniboia Downs will eliminate the run-up to the start pole for all the races at its upcoming season. Horses will now be clocked as soon as they leave the starting gate at the Winnipeg oval. In the past, horses had been given about 25 feet to run before the clock starts.
“We know that the accuracy of the distances and timing of our racing is critical to our horseplayers, and we want to take full advantage of the technology to help serve our fans to the best of our ability,” said Assiniboia CEO Darren Dunn. “We have been talking about it for a while now, and with the Equibase GPS System solving the technical concerns, there was nothing holding us back to do it. We think it is the right thing to do and will help to add further transparency to the charts for horseplayers and anyone that follows our races and horses.”
Assiniboia'ss official distances were re-surveyed with the installation of the Equibase GPS System, in partnership with Total Performance Data and Gmax Technology Ltd., in 2023, and minor adjustments were made to ensure the accuracy of the various distances.
Two gate-to-wire timing devices are affixed to the panels of two stalls on the starting gate that will sense the precise moment the gates are opened. This technology, along with wireless beam timing sensors at the finish line, provide an exact time of the race from the starting gate to the finish line. GPS-enabled devices in the horses' saddle towels also enable live tracking and enhanced graphics for the race.
“This initiative underscores ASD's commitment to advancing the integrity and transparency of Thoroughbred racing,” said Dunn. “By standardizing the starting conditions across all distances, we aim to further improve the racing experience for participants and the betting public.”
The new format will debut at the track's opening night, May 20, with a first post time of 7:30 p.m. CT.
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