And, finally, Timeform adjust ratings as a result of sectionals only where those sectionals can be established with acceptable accuracy and their significance properly gauged.
That is to say, seldom since TurfTrax stopped providing electronic ones.
Frankel’s rating was not based on sectionals – anyone who bothered to read the Handicappers’ Corner in question should understand that – but it seemed pertinent to point out that sectionals, if we had them, would almost certainly have supported to a large degree the subjective view taken by Timeform’s racereader.
Pour Moi’s and Carlton House’s ratings are not based solely on sectionals either. But it seems pertinent to point out that sectionals (easier to gauge and contextualise in the Derby than was the case in the 2000 Guineas) back up the impression that those were the best two horses in the race. That impression is already reflected in the horses’ ratings.