How to read a horse racing form guide? Here are complete guide with examples

For UK horse racing bettors, the form guide is your most important tool. Whether you’re betting on flat or jump races, understanding how to read it can help you make more informed and profitable betting decisions

This guide will walk you through the essential parts of a UK horse racing form guide and how to use the information effectively.

What is a horse racing form guide?

A horse racing form guide is a summary of a horse’s past performances, details about the race, and other relevant statistics. It’s designed to give bettors insights into how a horse might perform in a particular race.

Also Read: Horse racing betting tips: Top strategies for flat racing vs jump racing bets

Key sections of a UK horse racing form guide

1. Horse’s recent performance record
   Usually shown as a string of numbers and letters (e.g., 5213F).

Numbers: finishing position (1 = first place, 2 = second place, etc.).

Letters:

F = Fell

P = Pulled up

U = Unseated rider

B = Brought down

R = Refused to race

The most recent race is listed on the right.

Example: 5213F means 5th, 2nd, 1st, 3rd, Fell.

2. Days since last run
   Shown as a number after the form string (e.g., 21 = 21 days since last race).

Fresh horses may perform differently compared to those with recent races.

3. Course and distance record
   C = Horse has won at this course before.

D = Horse has won over this distance before.

CD = Won over this course and distance.

These are strong positive indicators.

4. Weight carried
   Shown in stones and pounds (e.g., 9-7 = 9 stone 7 pounds).

In handicaps, heavier weights are meant to level the field.

5. Jockey and trainer information
   Trainer and jockey names are listed, often with win percentages.

Look for partnerships with strong track records.

6. Official rating (OR)
   Assigned by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

Higher ratings indicate better horses, but also higher weights in handicaps.

7. Other symbols and abbreviations
   BF = Beaten favourite (was favourite in last race but lost).

V = Visor worn.

P = Blinkers.

H = Hood.

Equipment changes can impact performance.

Tips for using a form guide effectively

Look for consistent performers: Horses regularly finishing in the top 3 are safer bets.

Check course and distance success: A ‘CD’ winner is often well-suited to the race.

Consider the going: Match the horse’s past performance on similar track conditions (firm, soft, heavy).

Factor in weight changes: A horse carrying less weight than in previous wins may have an advantage.

Don’t ignore jockey-trainer combos: Successful partnerships often repeat results.

FAQs
Q1: What does ‘CD’ mean in a horse racing form guide?
It means the horse has previously won over the same course and distance as the upcoming race.

Q2: How important is the horse’s last race?
It can be a strong indicator of current form, but consider other factors like race class, distance, and ground.

Q3: Should I always bet on the favourite?
Not necessarily. Favourites win about 30–35% of races; value can be found in other runners.

Q4: What does ‘BF’ mean in form?
‘Beaten favourite’ – the horse was favourite last time but did not win.

Q5: Can equipment changes affect performance?
Yes. Blinkers, visors, and hoods can impact a horse’s focus and performance.