A form guide packs a lot of information about each runner into a small space. Once you know what each column means, it becomes much easier to compare the horses in a race.
Runner number and barrier
The runner number identifies the horse in the race and on the saddlecloth. The barrier is the starting gate the horse jumps from, with barrier 1 closest to the inside rail.
Barrier draw tends to matter most over shorter distances and on tighter tracks, where horses drawn wide can cover extra ground or struggle to find a good position.
Weight and jockey
The weight is what the horse carries in the race, including the jockey and saddle. In handicap races, better performed horses are given more weight to even up the field.
Apprentice jockeys can claim a weight allowance, which reduces the weight the horse carries. The allowance is usually shown next to the jockey's name.
Recent form figures
The string of figures next to a horse shows its finishing positions in recent starts, with the most recent run on the right.
- 1 to 9 show the finishing position in that start.
- 0 means the horse finished tenth or worse.
- x marks a spell, which is a break from racing, usually of about three months or more.
- Other letters can mark events such as a fall or a failure to finish. Check the key for the form guide you are using.
Track condition and distance
Every race lists the distance in metres and the track rating on the day. Some horses perform best on firm ground while others handle a soft or heavy track, so it is worth comparing a horse's past results on similar conditions.
Putting it together
No single number decides a race. Most punters look at recent form, suitability to the distance and track, the barrier and the market price together. Our daily horse racing tips show the main reasons behind each selection.
See today's horse racing tips or compare Australian betting sites.