Wet weather and racing. It’s messy.

Anyone in the UK right now knows that the weather has been rather wet these last few days after several days of fine racing weather. Wet weather racing impacts racegoers, jockeys, horses and even the outcome. Simply put, the track conditions and the performance of the horses can be significantly impacted. Here are some of the effects of wet weather on horse racing:

Track conditions:

Wet weather and heavy rain can result in a soft or heavy track surface. The increased moisture can make the track muddy, boggy, or waterlogged. This changes the form of the track. Different horses fare better under different conditions and a heavy track will favour certain runners. It can also affect how horses run and lead to slower race times. The condition of the track is usually indicated in the race program to help bettors and participants assess its impact.

Footing and Traction: 

A wet track can become slippery, reducing the traction between the horses’ hooves and the ground. This can make it more challenging for horses to accelerate, decelerate, and maintain their balance around turns, potentially affecting their performance. Horses with a preference for certain track conditions (e.g., firm or fast) may struggle in wet weather.

Pace and Strategy: 

In wet conditions, horses often find it more difficult to maintain their usual speed. Races may have slower early fractions (the first portion of the race) as horses conserve energy to deal with the more demanding track. Jockeys and trainers may adjust their strategies, emphasizing the importance of stamina and endurance rather than relying solely on speed.

Form and Performance: 

Wet weather can favour certain horses that have a history of performing well in muddy or wet conditions. Some horses have a natural affinity for running in the mud or on a wet track, while others may struggle. It’s not uncommon to see unexpected outcomes and upsets in races held in inclement weather.

Health and Safety: 

Racing in wet conditions carries inherent risks. The soft or heavy track can increase the strain on a horse’s legs and potentially lead to injuries. Slippery conditions can also result in horses losing their footing or jockeys struggling to maintain control. As a result, race officials may take precautions, such as inspecting the track regularly or even cancelling or postponing races if conditions become unsafe.

Using it for betting advantage:

Wet weather by itself is not a major issue but sustained heavy rain causes issues. Our local course for example, Bangor-On-Dee racecourse has been so flooded that it could be mistaken for a duck pond back in 2020. At the same time, wet weather can turn a runner up into a potential winner if the weather conspires with betting at the right time.