MIDDLE MOVE FADE

Requires a first-call position of 4th or worse, a gain of at least 3 positions to reach the stretch in 3rd or better, and a finish of 4th or worse. A horse that moves powerfully through the field in mid-race but runs out of gas in the final furlong may have been compromised by the exertion of making that move, by fitness limitations, or by distance. The move itself demonstrates genuine ability and energy that was not captured by the finish position. A slight improvement in fitness or a shorter distance today often turns the move into a winning one.