When reading a racing program or past performance sheet, you’ll quickly encounter a flurry of abbreviations, acronyms, and odd little symbols. At first glance, it may look like alphabet soup—but each one has a purpose. Mastering these notations can give you insight into where a horse raced, how it performed, and what kind of track conditions it encountered.
Common Track Abbreviations
Common Track Abbreviations
Track abbreviations typically refer to the racetrack where the horse last competed. These shorthand codes are standardised across programs, tip sheets, and past performances.
Some examples:
BEL = Belmont Park (NY)
SAR = Saratoga (NY)
CD = Churchill Downs (KY)
GP = Gulfstream Park (FL)
SA = Santa Anita Park (CA)
PRX = Parx Racing (PA)
DEL = Delaware Park (DE)
TP = Turfway Park (KY)
International races may show:
ASC = Ascot (UK)
HK = Sha Tin (Hong Kong)
AUS = Various tracks in Australia (often city or state-coded)
Did You Know? Most racing programs include a legend with a complete list of tracks covered, but for regular bettors, it's worth memorising your most-bet venues.
Race Program Symbols and What They Mean
Race Program Symbols and What They Mean
In addition to track codes, you’ll spot handy symbols next to horse names, jockeys, or race conditions. These aren’t just visual clutter—they provide meaningful insights:
**† or *** = Apprentice jockey (receives weight allowance)
• = Bullet workout (fastest of the day at that distance)
(L) = Lasix administered
(B) = Blinkers on
(t) = Tongue tie
(d) = Horse debuted in that race
(x) = Horse is scratched
slop/mud/fast/turf = Track condition indicators
Some symbols indicate surface changes or race type modifications, which can significantly affect performance.
Did You Know? The abbreviation "MTH" for Monmouth Park is one of the few that uses a three-letter format where the middle letter isn’t taken from the track name—but from Monmouth’s town name origin in New Jersey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are track abbreviations important in horse racing?
Why are track abbreviations important in horse racing?
Track abbreviations help you identify where a horse has raced. Different tracks have different surfaces, configurations, and competition levels—key data for evaluating past performances.
Are race program symbols the same across all US tracks?
Are race program symbols the same across all US tracks?
Most major tracks and data providers like Equibase, DRF, and Brisnet use standardised symbols, but some smaller venues may add unique notations. Always check the legend on your race day program.
How can I learn to read track abbreviations quickly?
How can I learn to read track abbreviations quickly?
With repetition! Start by memorising the top 10 tracks you bet on most, and bookmark a full abbreviation guide like the one on MyWinners.com for reference.
What does it mean if a symbol like (L) or (B) is missing from a race program?
What does it mean if a symbol like (L) or (B) is missing from a race program?
It usually means that Lasix or blinkers were not used. However, a sudden absence (e.g., no Lasix after consistent use) could suggest a strategy change or regulatory issue.
Are there apps or tools that decode abbreviations and symbols for bettors?
Are there apps or tools that decode abbreviations and symbols for bettors?
Yes. Apps like DRF Formulator, Timeform US, and even MyWinners.com’s mobile experience often include hover-over or tap-to-reveal features to explain abbreviations instantly.