Relationships between electrocardiographic findings, racing performance and training in standardbred horses.

This research explores the connection between abnormal T waves in electrocardiogram readings, racing performance, and the impact of training in Standardbred horses. It discovers a correlation between abnormal T waves and better racing outcomes.

Methodology and Participants

• The study was carried out in two racing stables in Sydney, with a total of 32 Standardbred horses as participants.
• Each horse was tested using an electrocardiograph to detect and record any abnormal T waves.
• A subset of 22 horses were further monitored within a week of good racing performance.
• A separate investigation was done on the effect of training using nine previously untrained and unraced horses.

Findings on T waves and Racing Performance

• A total of 16 horses exhibited three or more leads with abnormal T waves.
• Interestingly, these horses had won more races, showed a greater winners-to-starters ratio and earned more money per start compared to their counterparts with fewer abnormal T waves.
• In addition, horses with abnormal T waves had significantly faster racing times.
• Statistically significant positive correlations were found between the number of abnormal T waves and the number of wins and dollars earned per start.
• Conversely, the fastest winning mile rate showed a negative correlation with the number of leads with abnormal T waves.
• The mean number of abnormal T waves in the subset of 22 horses was 2.7.
• Among these, 13 horses, or 59%, had abnormal T waves in three or more leads.

Investigations on Training Effects

• The study also aimed to observe how training influenced the presence of T waves.
• These preliminary investigations were conducted on fresh Standardbred racehorses that had no prior training or racing experience.
• The results of these investigations, however, have been truncated in the provided abstract.