As part of our enhanced Past Performances, Pick Pony delivers a powerful “AI Picks” feature with three distinct sets of predictions for every race—giving you multiple data-driven perspectives to guide your decisions. These picks are conveniently displayed on the PPS overview page and summarized at the end of each race card for quick, at-a-glance analysis. In addition, we publish daily AI picks each morning, highlighting top opportunities and key races to watch. Whether you are reviewing a full card or looking for quick insights to start your day, Pick Pony keeps you one step ahead.
Behind every prediction is our proprietary AI engine, purpose-built for horse racing. It evaluates hundreds of variables—including speed figures, pace scenarios, class shifts, and track conditions—to uncover patterns others miss. The result is a smarter, faster, and more informed handicapping experience.
How Pick Pony’s AI engines makes horse race predictions
Pick Pony's AI engines require data. This data could include factors such as finish position, speed rating, pace, turn time, trainer expertise, and even weather. Each data point is influenced by other data points, such as the facility where the race was run, the race track's surface condition, and the “sophistication” and “expertise” of its attendees. We must look at each data point in a variety of ways. For instance, concerning speed ratings, we may examine a horse's speed at a specific track, at a specific distance, on a particular surface condition, or on a specific track configuration. Furthermore, we must decide how to evaluate the data point. Using speed again as an example, we may evaluate the speed rating of the last race, the last three races, for the entire season, or when a specific jockey is in the irons. Each individual data point may be evaluated in dozens, if not hundreds, of different ways. Thus, processing handicapping data is very resource-intensive (and expensive).
Using weights to tweak AI algorithms
Because horse race handicapping relies on a limited set of data, with everyone using the same data sources, the only way to distinguish one evaluation of the data from another is through weights. Each data point can be weighted, influencing the outcome more than other data points. The various weights account for the different models we offer our customers (Plus subscribers have access to two AI models, while Pro and Premiere subscribers can use up to three models). Each model uses select data points at specific weights. As we advance, subscribers will be able to adjust these weights independently, allowing them to tinker with the models to figure out which weighting works best at specific tracks or distances, etc.
The various models prove most effective for specific conditions and tracks. For instance, Algo1 may work best at smaller tracks (and yes, it typically does), while Algo3 may produce more accurate results for larger tracks. Or Algo2 may work better for routes, while Algo3 works better for sprints. We encourage our customers to try different weights and apply them to a variety of circumstances to find the most accurate algorithm for their needs.
AI-generated handicapping – always adapting to a changing landscape.
Pick Pony's AI models are built to evolve. They are continuously refined and updated—often daily—as we work to improve accuracy, incorporate new data, and adapt to changing racing conditions. Like any advanced model, they are not perfect, and no system truly is. That is why we position our AI as a powerful tool, not a replacement for your judgment.
When combined with Pick Pony's innovative Past Performances, our AI becomes part of a complete handicapping toolkit—designed to give you deeper insight, sharper analysis, and a meaningful edge. Use it alongside your own expertise to make smarter, more confident betting decisions.
