Retour vers le futur N°7 Avril 2025 | Page 155

ENGLISH TEXTS make the effort to learn how to use them effectively. But beyond that, machine learning models open up even more advanced possibilities. Given the right data, ideally enriched data, they offer unprecedented opportunities to refine analysis and optimize betting strategies.
Data: The real battlefield In horse racing, data is king. Without a large enough data volume, and the ability to enrich it for a competitive edge, it’ s impossible to unlock the full potential of AI and machine learning models. Let’ s take a concrete example: a complete dataset of all race results in Hong Kong( HK) since September 2015, enriched with speedbased ratings and sectional times— around 40 variables in total. Such a dataset would allow for much deeper analysis and reveal trends invisible to traditional bettors. Take starting positions, often debated in racing. Due to a lack of accessible and well-analyzed data, it’ s rare to get a clear answer on their actual impact. For instance, the 1,200-meter turn-in course at Happy Valley, which can feature up to 12 runners. To enrich my algorithm, I want to determine which starting gate numbers offer a meaningful advantage. I ask the AI to analyze only races with 12 runners, ensuring each gate number is fairly represented. Thirty seconds later, the answer:
• Gate 1 provides a clear edge, delivering 16 % of winners.
• Gate 12 is the least favorable, with only a 3.7 % win rate. That’ s what we call a clear and actionable result. Impossible to deduce by intuition alone, such insights become powerful tools for optimizing strategies and maximizing profits.
Using AI effectively in racing Asking a chatbot“ Who will win this race?” is a naive prompt. AI doesn’ t predict the future— it analyzes data to provide insights. A smarter approach: submit the race card with enriched variables and ask for an analysis of the key contenders. Example: Race 9 SHA TIN – March 23, 2025 – 1,200m Handicap – Class 3 – € 220,000
• The AI evaluates past performance, ratings, draw positions, sectional speeds.
• It identifies consistent runners, improving horses, and dark horses to watch.
• Betting Tip: Combine solid favorites with emerging contenders for better value.
CONTENDER ANALYSIS 1. Obvious Favorites MAGNIFIQUE( 4): Best SR( 87.4) and SRAW( 90.4), strong rating( 67), though draw 9 could be a slight handicap. Serious win contender. SUPER INFINITY( 6): High SR( 84.5), BSRAW( 89.6), favorable draw( 4), consistent recent form. Strong podium chance. TRIUMPHANT MORE( 3): Solid rating( 72), good draw( 2), consistent form( 1 / 5 / 1 / 4 / 1), strong BSR( 82.5). One to watch.
2. Interesting Outsiders SUPER LEGENDS( 2): High rating( 73), jockey C. Soumillon, decent draw( 10). Could surprise despite recent dip. INVINCIBLE SHIELD( 1): Highest rating( 79), ridden by R. Moore, but lower BSRAW( 64.7). Possible place contender.
3. Weaker Runners: FREE PONY( 8) & LIGHT- NESS OF BEING( 9): Low SR / BSR, erratic performance. Hard to recommend. CALL TO COMMAND( 11): SR of 63, draw 13, very average recent results. Unlikely to feature.
�Betting Strategy

☑ Win / Place: MAGNIFIQUE( 4)

• Best performance indicators despite average draw.

☑ Exacta / Trifecta: 4- 6- 3- 2( MAGNIFIQUE, SUPER INFINITY, TRIUM- PHANT MORE, SUPER LEG- ENDS)

• A mix of strong favorites and potential surprises.

☑ Superfecta / Quinella( reduced field): Base: 4- 6- 3 With: 2- 1- 10

• Balanced strategy blending reliability and potential upsets.
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