A racecard packs a lot of information into a small space. Once you know what each part means, you can size up a race in seconds. Here's every element, in plain English.
Form figures
The string of numbers beside a horse's name is its recent form, most recent run on the right. A 1 is a win, 2 a second, and so on; 0 means it finished outside the top nine. A − separates seasons and a / a longer break. Letters appear in jumps form: P pulled up, F fell, U unseated. Consistency and recent improvement are what to look for.
Weight
The weight each horse carries (in stones and pounds) is set by the handicapper in a handicap, aiming to give every runner an equal chance. More weight is harder to carry; a well-treated horse "handicapped to win" is a classic angle. Its official rating is the mark behind that weight.
The draw
On the Flat, the number in brackets is the horse's stall (gate) position. At some tracks and trips a low or high draw is a genuine advantage — our course guides flag where it matters most.
Headgear and other symbols
Small letters after the name flag equipment: b blinkers, p cheekpieces, h hood, t tongue-tie, v visor. A 1 beside them means it's the first time — first-time headgear is a noted angle. You'll also see the jockey, trainer, age and days since the last run.
Put it together and a racecard tells a story — recent form, the handicapper's view, the draw and any changes in gear. Our model reads all of this and more for every race today.