Understanding how to read a race card is essential for interpreting form and assessing a horse’s winning potential. Below is a clear explanation of what each section of a typical racecard means, using a real-world example to help you apply this knowledge during your analysis.

Racecard Number and Draw (NO. / DRAW)

• The racecard number identifies the horse and matches the saddlecloth worn during the race.

• The draw refers to the stall number in flat racing. On some courses, a favourable draw can offer a significant advantage.

• Example: “4 (1)” means horse number 4 is drawn in stall 1.

Form Figures (FORM)

• Form shows a horse’s recent finishing positions, from oldest to most recent (left to right).

• Numbers represent placing positions. A “1” means a win, “0” means the horse finished 10th or worse.

• Letters indicate unusual outcomes, such as:

  • P: Pulled up

  • F: Fell

  • U: Unseated rider

  • R: Refused to race

• Example: “45222” means the horse has been consistently placing, finishing second in each of its last three races.

Horse Name and Headgear

• The horse’s official name is displayed prominently.

• Headgear abbreviations indicate what equipment the horse will wear:

  • b = blinkers

  • h = hood

  • p = cheekpieces

  • t = tongue tie

• A number after the headgear code (e.g., b1) means the horse is wearing that equipment for the first time.

• Additional abbreviations include:

  • C = has won at the course before

  • D = has won over the distance before

  • CD = has won over this exact course and distance (C D is slightly different it means the horse has won a the course and also at distance but not at this course)

  • BF = was a beaten favourite last time out

Age

• The horse’s age in years. All horses officially age one year on January 1st regardless of their actual birth date.

• Young horses may still be improving, while older runners could be regressing or well-experienced.

Weight (WGT)

• The total amount of weight the horse will carry in the race, shown in stones and pounds (e.g., 9-7).

• In handicap races, weight is based on the horse’s official rating.

• Apprentice or conditional jockeys may reduce the weight with a claim allowance.

Official Rating (OR)

• The handicap mark given to the horse by the official racing authority.

• The higher the rating, the better the perceived ability.

• Comparing today’s OR with past winning ORs helps identify if a horse is well-handicapped.

Jockey and Allowance

• Shows the name of the jockey booked to ride.

• A number in brackets after the name (e.g., (5)) indicates a claiming jockey, reducing the weight carried by that amount.

• Jockey changes can suggest strategic intent or trainer preference.

Trainer and Recent Form Percentage (RTF%)

• Displays the trainer’s name and their recent strike rate, shown as a percentage of runners that have performed to expectations.

• Trainers in form are more likely to send out competitive runners.

Topspeed Rating (TS)

• A speed-based rating calculated from previous runs, adjusted for race conditions.

• A higher TS indicates strong pace figures relative to past races.

Racing Post Rating (RPR)

• A numerical figure created by Racing Post analysts.

• It considers recent form, opposition quality, pace, and conditions.

• A helpful tool to compare overall ability between runners.

Odds

• The latest odds for the horse to win the race.

• The “Place Bet” option refers to markets that pay if the horse finishes in the top two, three, or four, depending on the race type and field size.

Racecards provide a wealth of information once you understand how to interpret them. From form and weight to jockey statistics and official ratings, each section of the card helps you assess a horse’s suitability for today’s race conditions. Use this structured breakdown to sharpen your analysis and make more confident betting decisions.