The dogs are handicapped by grade, when a greyhound begins a
racing career, it is classified as a maiden, which means a non-winner.
It advances to grade C on its first win and with further wins
advances up the ladder to the top grade of A.
Track Preference
Knowing where a dog likes to run on the track can also be very
important.
Early Speed / Front Runners
There are two types of early speed dogs. One type shows a strong
break out of the box - the break call is approximately four lengths
from the starting box. The other type tends to break moderately
and then rush or drive the first turn.
Late Speed / Closers
Late speed dogs generally show a somewhat slow break out of the
box. They come to the 8th call following the pack. From here on
out is where the closers run their race. Some may show a gradual
gain throughout the race, while others wait until late in the
race to make their move. This type of a runner pushes hard in
the stretch passing many of the dogs and should never be underestimated.
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Class
Determining the class of the race can be tough sometimes. This
can depend on the stats you have available to you. Look first
to find the one showing the most "in the money" finishes
at the current grade racing. Next, look for grade drops and how
competitive the dog was in the higher grade. Class tends to be
a much stronger variable in higher-grade races.
Time
This variable brings many arguments between handicappers. Some
tend to place this factor at the top of the list, while others
consider this lightly. Some observers have found a strong correlation
with the dogs having the fastest times generally will also be
the class of the race.
Heart
This factor can be gauged as seen in our stats. If a dog exhibits
heart, he shows the ability and determination to come back after
finding trouble. This type of competitor will either finish in
the money or make a strong attempt to do so.
Trouble
Trouble is the toughest variable to be found in handicapping.
Coming into the first turn is where most of the trouble occurs.
This is where the early speed/front runners can benefit by being
out of harm’s way. The positive aspect of trouble is that
it produces the higher payoffs. When selecting your key greyhound
in a wager, consider his trouble percentage. If he shows a high
percentage of trouble and doesn't seem to benefit by his post-position,
look to another greyhound as a key.
