How can you compare a horse bred 45 years ago with one bred today?
It is estimated that the genetic enhancements have likely contributed to a speed improvement of around 2-3 seconds per mile. This estimate is based on the understanding that modern pacing horses are bred for better gait, athleticism, and overall performance, then you have to take account of the improved bikes, track surfaces etc and there is another 3 to 4 seconds.
Yes the individual Cam Fella born 45 or so years ago if racing today would not achieve a 46 mile but neither would any other horse bred in his timeline.
He wouldn't be a 53 pacer today either, with the established equipment and track improvements he would probably be between 49 and 50 and maybe even a bit faster because he had heart.
Thanks for making my point. Like I said, the only fact is time. All the other things you mentioned are maybe and probably. Equipment, medications, track surface are all subjective. Is today's bike 2 seconds faster, 3 seconds faster, 4 seconds faster. Is today's track surface 2 seconds faster, 3 seconds faster, 4 seconds faster. If you want to debate all those variables, have at it. I'm dealing with the only fact in horse racing and that is time. FACT..Cam Fella was a 1:53 pacer.
