Optimal speed in Thoroughbred horse racing.

Area of Science:

• Equine Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Mathematical Modeling

Background:

• Thoroughbred horses cannot maintain top speed throughout a race.
• Optimal race strategy requires careful pace management and energy utilization.
• Understanding speed regulation is crucial for improving equine athletic performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mathematical model for optimizing Thoroughbred racehorse speed regulation.
• To analyze the interplay of mechanics, energetics, and motor control in race performance.
• To predict optimal pacing strategies based on physiological and track parameters.

Main Methods:

• Coupled ordinary differential equations modeling velocity, propulsive force, and anaerobic energy.
• Optimal control problem formulation and solution.
• Parameter calibration using real-world race velocity data from France Galop.

Main Results:

• Numerical simulations provide optimal speed profiles throughout a race.
• Model predicts oxygen uptake, energy utilization, and propulsive force dynamics.
• The model forecasts adjustments in effort and velocity based on track topography (altitude, bends).

Conclusions:

• The developed model offers insights into Thoroughbred racehorse performance optimization.
• Pacing strategies are influenced by physiological constraints and environmental factors.
• This mathematical approach can inform training and race-day decisions for equine athletes.