The gait of pacers. 1: kinematics of the racing stride.

This study examines the gait of Standardbred pacers during races to understand the correlation between gait kinematics and the order in which the horses finish. The research indicates that higher place finishers exhibit larger stride and stance lengths as well as greater limb motion compared to those finishing in lower positions.

Objective of the Study

• The principal aim of the study is to describe the gait of the pacer (a type of horse), particularly under race conditions, and determine the relationship between the stage of the race, the finish order, and specific gait kinematics.

Findings of the Study

• The results of the study showed that the overlap, defined as the period where both the hind and fore hooves are in contact with the ground, increases as the race progresses. Meanwhile, the pacing speed showed a slight drop for pacers finishing in lower positions, while it increased for high order (top) finishers.
• The study also found that pacers finishing in the top spots demonstrated larger stance lengths (the distance between the rear and fore hooves when the horse is standing) and stride lengths (the distance covered between consecutive placements of the same hoof) compared to the lower order finishers.
• Thus, the researchers were able to separate pacers into two distinct groups (high order and low order) based on their specific movement patterns. High order pacers showed increased ranges of limb motion compared to those finishing in lower positions.

Implications of the Study

• The findings of this study could be used to develop training and racing strategies for pacers. Understanding the kinematics of the racing stride could help trainers to optimise performance and improve outcomes for their horses.
• Additionally, the research could contribute to further studies in equine biomechanics and the role different movement patterns play in race performance.