NEVER ON SURFACE

Fires when no starts on today's surface appear in either the last-10 race array or the career surface totals (turf starts or all-weather starts as applicable). Racing on an unfamiliar surface introduces variables that cannot be predicted from dirt or synthetic form: footing feel, stride adjustment, sinking or firmness response, and psychological comfort. While some horses adapt seamlessly, others struggle significantly. Without any data point, the risk is entirely unknown and the horse should be treated with appropriate caution in the betting.