Despite a promising trial in 2022 at Turffontein, 4Racing courses still have not implemented sectional timing. The trial, conducted on July 28, was accompanied by a press release stating that the system would be rolled out in due course. Over two years later, no sectional timing data has been made available to the public.

Racing 240, the racing TV channel on DStv, doesn’t feature any sectional timing visuals, nor is the data available on industry platforms for post-race analysis. It remains unclear whether the system will be installed at all. The GPS-based Traxmeet system from Finland, initially proposed for use, seems more suited for harness racing, and little information is available regarding its adaptation for horse racing.

Currently, the only data displayed during races on DStv includes the race time and the speed of the leading horse, which offers minimal value to bettors. In contrast, GallopTV, another South African racing broadcaster, has successfully implemented sectional timing. Launched after 4Racing’s trial, GallopTV has been providing comprehensive sectional data for nearly two years, which offers significant analytical value to bettors.

While Racing 240 has recently upgraded to high-definition broadcasting, sectional timing remains a missing feature. Hopefully, we’ll see its implementation in all race meetings soon.

*4Racing has been approached for comment.