Quirin Speed Points and Pace Analysis — A Complete Guide

Published April 03, 2026 by Horse Race Ready — Model v6.5.0

What Are Quirin Speed Points?

Developed by Andrew Quirin, speed points score a horse's early-speed capability on a 0-8 scale based on running position at the first call across recent races. An 8 means the horse is almost always on the lead; a 0 means it breaks slowly every time.

Why Pace Analysis Matters

The pace scenario is the single biggest determinant of race outcome that most bettors ignore. When three 8-point speed horses are in the same race, they'll burn each other out — setting up a closer to rally. When only one speed horse is in the field, it can coast on an easy lead.

Using Quirin Points in Practice

Horse Race Ready integrates Quirin speed points with track bias data to build a complete pace picture:

• Lone speed (only 1 horse with 6+ points): major advantage in speed-biased tracks
• Speed duel (3+ horses with 6+ points): closers benefit
• Honest pace (even distribution): speed figures are most predictive

The Pace × Bias Interaction

Pace analysis without track bias context is incomplete. Lone speed on a closer-biased track isn't nearly as strong as lone speed on a rail-favoring surface. Our model integrates both signals through orthogonal factor scoring.