Gained Command

Gained Command means when a horse gains the lead at any point during the race. This term is interchangeable with “Assumed Command” and describes the moment when a horse moves from a trailing or stalking position into the lead during any stage of the race.

This term is important for handicappers because it shows when and where a horse made its winning move, which can be valuable for predicting future performance. A horse that gained command early may have different tactical speed than one that gained command late in the race.