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┌────────────────────────────┐ │ SuperSelect$ │ │ D e m o │ │ Users Manual │ └────────────────────────────┘ (c)Copyright 1992,1993 Lee Oakes and Associates 6055 Pebblehill Drive Barlett, TN. 38135 OVERVIEW The SuperSelect$ software package is designed to assist the greyhound racing handicapper in managing data in a systematic manner while interfacing with a powerful handicapping module. The great news is that it doesn't stop there...it gets better. If your interest includes more than one track, that's no problem. If your hard drive has the capacity it can handle as many tracks as the User desires. The majority of handicapping software is all hard coded whereby the User has little, if any control over the end results. When we say the User is in charge with this software, they truly are. What sets SuperSelect$ apart from other programs of this same nature is that YOU HAVE COMPLETE control over all the factors the program uses in its analysis. The User controls which FACTORS they wish to use while controlling the POINT VALUES to be applied. The information that you store in data files for each greyhound is used to score points. Favorable data scores points and no points are given for unfavorable data. Once the data is calculated for each greyhound in a given race, the predicted results are shown along with their scores. In concluding this overview of SuperSelect$, I would like to share with our new customers more about the name and the services we offer. We are by no means new to greyhound racing. The name was derived from the tip sheet, SuperSelect$, which I have published since 1989. Much of the success I have achieved with this tip sheet can be contributed to this program and the results of our selections we have offered our customers since 1989. This package is truly a "private label" that has been in use for several years and is now available to the public for the first time. In addition, users of our software that have modems are given access to our local bulletin board service for quicker support. In closing, I would like to Thank You for purchasing our SuperSelect$ software package and hope that you find it as exciting and profitable as I have over the years. Lee Oakes, Lee Oakes & Associates SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS AND INSTALLATION SuperSelect$ software requires an IBM compatible computer with a minimum of 640K of RAM and a hard drive. Systems base must consist of 286, 386 or the 486. Disks are also available for the former XT 8088 models and should have been noted at the time of order. Your order should consist of (4) 5 1/4 disks or (1) 3 1/2 disks, depending on the size of your floppy drive. To install SuperSelect$ to your hard drive, the following steps must be taken: 1. User will start the computer bringing the system to the c:\> prompt. 2. Insert Diskette #1 labeled "installation" into drive A: or B: depending on size of floppy. 3. User will type A: Install or B: Install. The program will load and run from the floppy drive indicated. 4. The first prompt the User must answer is which drive letter contains the install diskette, A: or B:. 5. The next prompt will be to enter the drive letter of your hard drive which to install the software. Most systems recognize the hard drive as the letter C but this may be vary depending upon your configuration. 6. The program will then prompt the User for the directory path where the software is to be installed. The default directory is C:\SS. You may at this time choose another path if you wish by typing in the complete path; i.e., C:\MYSTUFF\DOGS. After the directory path is created, the program will ask that you insert the "installation" disk which should already be in the floppy drive. PRESS ENTER. The program will prompt the User for other disk as required until all programs are copied to the path that you chose. 7. Once the above has been completed, the User will then be prompted to enter the two character track code used for their track. These can usually be found in the official racing program or may be obtained from the Track Code list furnished in the User's Guide. The program will now build all appropriate files to conclude the installation process. The following steps are used to access the directory and execute and run the program: 1. At the C:\> prompt, type CD\SS and press ENTER. 2. At the C:\SS> prompt, type SUPRSLCT and press ENTER. In order to use the SuperSelect$ program, the installation process MUST BE USED or the program WILL NOT RUN. Installation disks are left intact so that they may be used again if needed. If by chance you have NOT READ the User's Guide, we urge you to do so now. TRACK CODES LIST AP Apache Junction NL Nuevo Laredo BE Belmont OP Orange Park BH Black Hills PB Palm Beach BI Biscayne PH Pheonix BM Birmingham PI Plainfield BR Bluffs Run PU Pueblo CA Caliente RA Raynham CD Coeur d'Alene RM Rocky Mountain CC Corpus Christi SA Sarasota CL Cloverleaf SC Sodrac DP Dairyland SE Seabrook DB Daytona Beach SJ St. John DQ Dubuque SL Southland EB Ebro SM Seminole FL Flagler SO Sanford Orlando FV Fox Valley SP St. Petersburg GL Geneva Lakes ST St. Croix Meadows GM Green Mountain TN Taunton GT Green Track TP Tampa HI Hinsdale TS Tri-State HO Hollywood TU Tucson IS Interstate VG Valley JA Jacksonville VL Victoryland JC Jefferson County WL Waterloo JU Juarez WD Wheeling Downs KW Key West WI Wisconsin Dells LI Lincoln WT Wichita MH Mile High WO Wonderland MO Mobile WS Woodlands MU Multnomah YU Yuma NF Naples PREPARING SUPERSELECT$ FOR YOUR TRACK CONFIGURATION SuperSelect$ software is a user friendly package which incorporates pull down menus and supports the use of a mouse. Arrow keys may also be used. To activate the main menu PRESS the ALT key. Mouse supported systems may use the point and click method for the selections shown. Left and right arrow keys will move across the menu bar at the top of screen. PRESS ENTER when desired selection is highlighted. Use the up and down arrow keys to move to the selection of your choice and press ENTER. Before we can begin entering we must first prepare the program for use at your track. This includes the codes, or defaults, that you wish to use to identify various items within the program. To set up SuperSelect$ for your track, the following steps must be taken: 1. Press the ALT key to activate the menu bar. a. Select Parameters from main menu. b. Select Data File Controls. The SuperSelect$ Configuration Set-Up screen will then appear. 2. a. Path: This was established at the time of installation, so all that is required is to PRESS ENTER. 3. b. Track Code: This was also established during the installation process, so all that is required is to PRESS ENTER. 4. c. Archiving Code: One feature of the SuperSelect$ program is to Back-Up/Compress Data files. This option is found under the Utilities heading on the main menu. For this option the User must have one of three compression programs. They are PKZIP, ARJ, or LHA. Although we cannot supply these to you, they can be found on most bulletin board services as a shareware item. If you have one of these programs, type in the letter P for PKZIP, A for ARJ or L for LHA. Press Enter. If you do not have a compression program at this time, leave blank and PRESS ENTER. If one is obtained at a later date it can be added to the configuration at that time and SAVED. PREPARING SUPERSELECT$ FOR YOUR TRACK CONFIGURATION 5. d. Performance Code (Evening) e. Performance Code (Matinee) f. Performance Code (School) We suggest using E for Evening, M for Matinee, and S for Schooling. These codes will then be used during other functions of the program such as CREATE RACE SETUP, FAST UPDATE, ADD NEW DOGS and others. In addition, they will also appear in the data base of past performance race lines for identification purposes. Type in the letter of your choice for each and PRESS ENTER. 6. Grades: A B C D E M S SC: These grades are "hard coded" and cannot be changed. The grades of A through M are standard. The grade S shown is used for Stake races and the grade SC is used for schooling races. The User may chose to use different letters to represent the grades for the track of their choice. The User would substitute these grades in the listing shown as others. 7. g. Others: This allows the User to adjust for other grades, or different grades, that may be used at the identified track. The maximum number of grades the system will recognize when a race analysis is performed is eight. Additional grades may be required in the configuration set-up, such as the grade T that is used by many tracks. These are usually mixed grades consisting of A and B, B and C, C and D, and D and E. The race results that are printed in the official program will then show these grades as TA, TB, TC, TD, TE for each greyhound depending on their grade at the time the event was run. Once the race results are entered for a given event, and a grade T race occurred, the User can then use the Modify Race Line feature and change the grade to reflect grade A, B, C, D or E to compensate for this grade factor. Several tracks are now using a grade J, rather than grade E. If so, this would be a grade you should add at this time. Many Users may not want to capture and use data on schooling races. We suggest that you do. Analysis cannot be performed on a greyhound unless they have past performance lines to score. If you choose to add additional grades, type in the grades, and PRESS ENTER. 8. h. 3/16 Course (1) : i. 5/16 Course (5) : j. 3/8 Course (3) : k. 7/16 Course (7) : Many tracks are now using names for the various race course distances rather than the common 3/16ths, 5/16ths, 3/8ths and 7/16ths that have been used for so many years. If your track uses the name type system, the User can enter up to two characters to distinguish these. The numeric letter shown in parenthesis is the codes used for race set-ups and during the fast up-date process. The alpha characters will be reflected in the past performance lines only. If your track uses the numeric system, we suggest that you use the number shown in parenthesis for this purpose. 9. Field Skip Flags: l. weight m. win time n. odds o. comments The User has the option to skip the above items when entering in race results data. To skip any field, enter Y, and to accept any field enter N. If a User is not sure, we suggest that all be answered with N. The User when entering data can then prompt their way through these items. 10. p. hold race: This field enables the User to retain all race set-ups or to automatically delete and replace a race set-up once the results are entered. Zero (O) equals all, and one (1) will replace with other set-ups once results are entered. Unless the User intends to perform additional race analysis after a race has been run, we suggest a setting of (1). As with most other fields in the configuration set-up, they can always be changed at a later date if needed. KENNEL CODES The next step in preparing SuperSelect$ is the entry of kennel names and numbers. This selection can be found under the main menu listings of Parameters. The selection Kennel Codes gives the User three different options, A)dd, M)odify,Q)uit. To A)dd a kennel number and name, PRESS the letter A. The program will then prompt the User to Enter Kennel #. Type in the number and PRESS ENTER. The User will then be prompted to Enter New/Modified Name. Type in kennel name and PRESS ENTER. This procedure is continued until all kennel names and numbers have been entered. If kennel numbers exceed the twenty (20) shown on the screen, the program will recognize these entries and will begin a new column to accommodate for additional entries. To M)odify a entry, PRESS the letter M. The program will then prompt the User to Enter The Kennel #. User will type in the number to be modified and PRESS ENTER. The program will then prompt User to Enter New/Modified Name. User can then type in correct name and PRESS ENTER. To Q)uit, Press the letter Q. All changes will be saved and return the User to the main menu. We suggest using the assigned kennel numbers and names as shown in the official track program. DEFAULT TIMES This selection permits the User to enter the time ranges they wish to establish as the defaults for the track of their choice. These settings are required as part of the configuration and are used as the default times for which points are applied when a race analysis is performed. The program will accommodate the four basic race courses which are the 3/16ths, 5/16ths, 3/8ths and 7/16ths distance. The User has seven (7) time ranges for each course/distance that must be established. To set the time factors for the track of your choice, the following steps are used: 1. User will select Default Times which is found under the main menu listing of Parameters and PRESS ENTER. 2. Using the arrow keys, move the cursor to desired time to be changed and PRESS (F10) to modify. Type in new time and Press ENTER; i.e., 31.00. Please note to use a period rather than a colon. Each range is shown in a row, with the low time shown to the left and the high time to the right. (See Example.) 3. Once all time factors are changed, PRESS ESC. The User will then be prompted to PRESS (F10) Save, (F9) Modify, (ESC) which will Cancel. The following is an example of the screen and a few pointers which may assist you in determining the factors for the track of your choice. Time Factors 3/16 Course 5/16 Course 3/8 Course 7/16 Course 17.00 18.30 30.0032.45 38.00 40.40 47.0048.00 18.31 18.45 32.4132.55 40.41 40.55 48.0148.11 18.46 18.60 32.5632.70 40.56 40.70 48.1248.22 18.61 18.75 32.7132.85 40.71 40.85 48.2348.33 18.76 18.90 32.8633.00 40.86 41.00 48.3448.44 18.91 19.05 33.0133.15 41.01 41.15 48.4548.55 19.06 19.20 33.1633.30 41.16 41.30 48.5648.66 DEFAULT TIMES Most "specialty" programs of this nature posses advantages and disadvantages that the User will encounter in its usage. The majority of handicapping programs contain preset variables that the User cannot change or define. Simply stated, your end results were partially predetermined when the program was written. As for myself I want to have control over these factors. Track conditions change from winter racing surfaces to those of summer. The same is true of greyhounds and how they perform under these conditions. The disadvantage is that the User must find the factors that works best at the track of their choice. To help simplify this matter, the following pointers may assist you. The time factors shown are those that I have established for my personal use which covers racing at West Memphis, AR. The course distances at this track are somewhat longer than the standard that is found at most tracks so the time factors are higher. I established these factors in the following manner. Each race track has a track record for the different distances that are run. The low time, shown to the left on the top row, is approximately 1 to 2 seconds lower than the track record time. The high time, shown to the right on the top row, is the track record, rounded off + .40 for 3/16ths, +.65 for 5/16ths, +.80 for 3/8ths and + .80 for 7/16ths distances. i.e. track record for 3/16th = 17.86, round off = 17.90. 17.90 + .40 = 18.30. The next low range factor is then incriminated by +.01 hundredths of a second for the low time factor (18.31) and the high range factor is in increments of .14 hundredths of a second which in this case is 18.45 seconds. Although these are examples only to help you get started, I have found these to be fairly accurate guidelines in testing for other tracks. The default times and the formulas for arriving at these were established for track conditions that would be considered fast. When race analysis are performed, the default times that you establish are then given points that you assign. Although the race analysis is discussed further on in the User's Guide, it is worth mentioning that the time factors established here can be adjusted either up or down in the Analysis Formulas Factors screen. This will assist the User in having the ability to increase or decrease the time factors without having to change their default time base. ANALYSIS FORMULAS This selection allows the User to set the weighted factors that they must established for race analysis for the track of their choice. A major portion of these settings, the Time Defaults for the various race courses, should already be completed and be reflected on the screen when this option is selected. If the Time Defaults that you wish to use have not been established for the track of your choice, you must do so now. Refer to Default Times and follow suggestions for establishing these. Before going further, I believe it is vital that the User have a understanding of how the race analysis performs. This will give you a better basis for deciding what weights that you may wish to use along with their point values that you must assign. As I stated before the SuperSelect$ program is different than most. I have found over the years that race conditions change daily as well as seasonable. To compensate for this I found that I needed to control the factors that were being measured. Although many items within the program are hard coded others are not. The User can control the following: Time Range for each course, Grade (GRD), Primary Early Speed (PES), Primary Late Speed (PLS), Secondary Late Speed (SLS), and Break/Off Post (BOP). Once a race set up is performed the User can then select Analyze a Race Performance. The User will prompted for how many race lines to analyze. The program will then look at each greyhound's past performance race lines in the data base. Points are then applied for each category that are established within the Analysis Formulas. After the analysis is performed for each race the results screen will appear with a detailed analysis for each greyhound. Although the User can control the options stated above, the variables for these factors are hard coded. The variables for each factor are as follows: 1. Time Factors (Time Range): User controlled. Program compares each race line to time range and scores for that range are calculated. 2. Primary early Speed (PES): Program & User controlled. Variable is as follows: any greyhound that is running either 1st, 2nd or 3rd at the 1/8th call receives assigned points for PES for a specific grade. 3. Primary Late Speed (PLS): Program & User controlled. Variable is as follows: any greyhound that improves position 2 or more positions from the 1/8th call and must finish either 1st, 2nd or 3rd receives assigned points for PLS for a specific grade. 4. Secondary Late Speed (SLS): Program & User controlled. Variable is as follows: any greyhound that improves position 2 or positions from the 1/8th call and finishes 4th only, receives assigned points for SLS for a specific grade. 5. Break/Off Post (BOP): Program & User controlled. Variable is as follows: any greyhound that breaks either 1st, 2nd, or 3rd receives assigned points for a specific grade. 6. Grade (GRD): Greyhound must finish either 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th to receive assigned points for a specific grade. 7. User has the ability to use a zero for any point value in which case that item will not be scored. ANALYSIS FORMULAS The User can change the parameters for Analysis Formulas as follows: 1. User will select Analysis Formulas which is found under the Parameters under the Main Menu. 2. Move the cursor to the item to be changed and press (F10) to Modify. User will type in the desired change and PRESS ENTER. 3. When all changes have been made, User will PRESS (ESC). User will then be given three options. They are: (F10) to Save, (F9) to Modify, and (ESC) which will CANCEL. The following example shows the screen and a brief summary of each field: Time Factors (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) 3/16 Course Times Adj 5/16 Course Times Adj Grade PES PLS SLS 17.00 to 18.30 100 0.00 30.00 to 32.45 200 0.00 A 50 110 30 18.31 to 18.45 90 32.46 to 32.55 175 B 50 110 30 18.46 to 18.60 80 32.56 to 32.70 150 C 45 100 30 18.61 to 18.75 70 32.71 to 32.85 125 D 40 90 30 18.76 to 18.90 60 32.86 to 33.00 100 E 40 90 30 18.91 to 19.05 50 33.01 to 33.15 75 M 40 90 30 19.06 to 19.20 30 33.16 to 33.30 50 S 50 110 30 SC 40 90 30 Time Factors (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (16) (17) (18) (19) 3/8 Course Times Adj 7/16 Course Times Adj Grade BOP GRD 38.00 to 40.40 200 0.00 47.00 to 48.90 100 0.00 A 30 0 40.41 to 40.55 175 48.91 to 49.05 90 B 30 0 40.56 to 40.70 150 49.06 to 49.20 80 C 25 0 40.71 to 40.85 125 49.21 to 49.35 70 D 20 0 40.86 to 41.00 100 49.36 to 49.50 50 E 20 0 41.01 to 41.15 75 49.51 to 49.60 40 M 20 0 41.16 to 41.30 50 49.61 to 49.75 30 S 30 0 SC 20 0 ANALYSIS FORMULAS Items (1), (4), (11), and (14): These are the Time Ranges the User establishes using the Defaults Times Option. Items (2), (5), (12) and (15): These are the point values assigned for each Time Range. Items (3), (6), (13), and (16): User can adjust the Time Range either up or down by using this feature. Move cursor to the Adj. column desired and press (F10) to modify. User must enter (-) to decrease, (+) to increase. i.e. to increase time range 20 hundredths of a second, type in +0.20 and PRESS ENTER. User will press Esc and then (F9) to Save. Items (7) and (17): These are the grades the program will analyze when an analysis is performed. The points scored for primary early speed (PES), primary late speed (PLS), secondary late speed (SLS) and break/off post (BOP) are based upon the grade to the left of each of these factors. We suggest the primary eight grades used by all tracks. To handle grade T races we offer this suggestion. In the configuration, Data File Control, add the grade T as an optional grade. When a race set-up is performed the system will then accept this as a valid grade. When race results are published in the official racing program they will show the grades as being TA, TB, TC, TD, TE, etc. Enter the results by means of the fast update function. When completed, select Modify Race Lines under Data Files from main menu. For each greyhound involved in a grade T race correct to reflect to show as grade A, B, C, D, E etc. Item (8): PES is the primary early speed points applied to the grade shown to the left of this column. Item (9): PLS is the primary late speed points applied to the grade shown to the left of this column. Item (10): SLS is the secondary late speed points applied to the grade shown to the left of this column. Item (18): BOP is the break / off post points applied to the grade shown to the left of this column. Item (19): GRD is points applied for grade. The User may use a zero in any point value column they wish NOT TO SCORE. The grades shown in columns 7 & 17 must be present to score for PES, PLS, SLS, and BOP. The system is now ready to accept input data. A considerable amount of time has been spent in preparing the program for its use. Many may wonder whether I have put the greyhound before the lure. The Data Files Controls and Kennel Codes are required before data can be input. The Default Times and Analysis Formulas were established only as a base to work from. In all reality these will require testing once a data base is established with an adequate amount of information for each greyhound. ADD NEW DOGS Once the system is properly installed, with the defaults and configuration in place for the track of your choice, the program is ready to accept information and begin to build your personal data base of racing history. The User has two methods which they may use when they first begin building their personal race history data base. They may do so by using the method of Add New Dog or by Create a Race Setup and then entering results by means of Fast Update. The method Add New Dog will permit the User to enter several race lines for a new greyhound which has not been entered into the system. Once they are entered and saved, this function will not recognize the greyhound as being new and will give the User a message stating this greyhound is already on file, press any key to continue. The User may continue to enter multiply race lines for a greyhound that exists in the data base by selecting Modify Race Lines. When the User selects the add function they are then permitted to add additional race lines. Before deciding on which method to use I suggest that you read the material covering both methods and use the one that best suites your circumstances. When using the method Add New Dog the User will need the official racing program and will capture the race lines for each entry. When entering race history under this method the User must enter the oldest race line shown in the official racing program first and work upward to the most current dated race line. When the program performs other functions such as analysis or reporting, the program reads data in descending order, current first to the oldest race line as last. To add a new dog using this method, the following steps are used: 1. The User will select Add New Dog and which is found under main menu Data Files and PRESS ENTER. 2. Name: The User will enter the greyhound's name. PRESS ENTER. Upper or lower case lettering can be used. Hyphens, apostrophes and periods are User optional when entering a name; however, either using or not using these must remain consistent throughout the program. You should decide on the front end whether you wish to use punctuation marks or not. 3. Kennel: User enters one or two digit kennel number. PRESS ENTER. 4. Track Code: User enters the two letters they chose for the track code of their choice. PRESS ENTER. Refer to Data File Control Parameters or Track Code List. 5. Race Date: User enters date of event. i.e. 10/02/92 or 01/03/92. 6. Trk Cond: User enters F= fast, S= slow. PRESS ENTER. 7. Course: User enters 1= 3/16ths, 3= 3/8ths, 5= 5/16ths and 7= 7/16ths course. PRESS ENTER. 8. Prfmce: User enters their default setting to represent either matinee or evening performance. PRESS ENTER. 9. Race #: User enters race number for the event. Usually found in smaller type beside the date in the official racing program. PRESS ENTER. ADD NEW DOGS 10. Grade: User enters grade of this race from the official racing program. PRESS ENTER. Grade should represent grades established in Data File Control Parameters. 11. Post-Finish: User enters post to finish as shown in official racing program. PRESS ENTER. 12. Run Time: User enters greyhound's running time including decimal. PRESS ENTER. 13. Odds: User enters odds as shown including decimal. PRESS ENTER. 14. Weight: User enters greyhound's weight including decimal. PRESS ENTER. 15. Win Time: User enters winning greyhound's race time including decimal. PRESS ENTER. 16. Comments: User can use brief comment. Twelve spaces allowed. I suggest using helpful comments which are abbreviated. i.e. closed insd., caught m-t, late bid m-t. PRESS ENTER. A box will now appear with the message: Save This Record. User has three choices: <yes> <no> <modify>. User must use the Tab Key to move and highlight their choice then PRESS ENTER. This step is repeated until all race lines in the official program has been entered for each greyhound. CREATE RACE SETUP The Create a Race Setup selection permits the User to accomplish several task in one easy step. This function permits the User to enter greyhounds in their correct post position and then to enter results by means of the Fast Update selection. This selection also permits new greyhounds to be added to the data base when required. I have found this method of building a data base to be more systematic with less time consumed and most importantly with fewer errors. This selection is required if a User wishes to perform any of the following: race analysis, create their personal racing program or perform the statistical analysis using the selection entry stats. When using this selection the User should have the official racing program or the line up with correct post positions for each event. The User must know the correct grades, and which course each event is to be run. This selection permits the User to create a race setup using the following steps: 1. User will select Create Race Setup which is found under Race Setup from the main menu. 2. Date: User will enter the date for the race that is to be run. 3. Performance: User will enter the performance code. Codes should represent the codes established in Data Files Controls for matinee, evening or schooling events. PRESS ENTER. 4. Race Number: User will enter the race number for this event. PRESS ENTER. 5. Grade: User will enter the grade for this event. Grades should represent the grades established in Data File Controls. PRESS ENTER. 6. Course: User will enter 1 for 3/16ths, 3 for 3/8ths, 5 for 5/16ths and 7 for 7/16ths depending on the course to be used for this event. PRESS ENTER. 7. Post Positions: User will then enter each greyhound for the correct post position shown. PRESS ENTER. When the name of a greyhound is entered that is not found in the data base a box will appear that will require the User to enter the kennel number for that greyhound. If the name entered is found in the data base the program will prompt the User for the next name to be entered. The system recognizes names based upon how you originally entered the name in the data base. When using this function and a name is spelled in error, the User can press enter and the program will permit the User to re-enter the name correctly. Once all the names have been entered for a specific race a box will appear that will prompt the User "save this record." The User options are <yes> <no> <modify>. Yes will save record, NO will take User back to screen for all information to be re entered and Modify permits the User to change or correct any part that is in error. TAB key must be used to move to different choices. PRESS ENTER. The setup screen will then appear and is ready for the next event to be entered. Once all races are entered the User will press ESC to exit to main menu. User is now permitted to enter results by selecting the Fast Update function. MODIFY RACE SETUP This selection permits the User to modify the Create Race Setup file. No matter who the User may be I have found the need to have the ability to make adjustments. Race programs may contain errors such as the course that is to be run or even grades and many times the User may make a mistake. This function is simply for precautionary measures only. If an error has occurred and requires changing before results are entered the User may use this function to correct such errors. This selection permits the User to Modify a Create Race Setup file using the following step: 1. The User will select Modify Race Setup which is found under Race Setup from the main menu. 2. The screen will then show the races that exist all of which have a number preceding the date. User will enter the number for the race to be modified and PRESS ENTER. 3. The complete race setup that was selected will appear. The instruction box to save this record will appear. The User can use the TAB key to tab to modify and press enter. The cursor will be positioned at the date. User can press enter which will advance the cursor to the item to be changed. User can then type over existing information and press enter. Pressing enter will prompt the cursor until the instruction box appears at which time User will select <Yes> and PRESS ENTER to save changes. FAST UPDATE The Fast Update selection permits the User to capture race results data to be stored in the data base. A race setup must be performed before this selection can be used. To use this function the User must have the race results which are found in the official racing program. Data input is performed by using the columns shown in the race results working from top to bottom for each column. This selection permits the User to enter results as follows: 1. User will select Fast Update which is found under Data Files from the main menu. 2. Race Date: User will enter date of race. 3. Performance: User will enter performance code for either matinee, evening or schooling. PRESS ENTER. 4. Track Condition: User will S= slow, F= Fast. PRESS ENTER. 5. Race #: User will enter correct race number. PRESS ENTER. The input screen will appear for the input of data. Race results are shown in columns by finish order with the winner 1st and 8th position being the last listed. 6. P to F Columns: User enters post position of the winning greyhound, then the second place greyhound etc, etc. As you enter a box number, the program will locate that number from the create a race setup, and the greyhound's name for that box number will appear in the name column. The next column is then entered for off post. The next column covers the 1/8th call which is entered and the last column that is required represents the stretch call. No entry for finish is required. 7. Time Column: User will enter time as shown in race results. No decimal is required and should not be used. i.e. 33.00 would be 3300. 8. Odds Column: User will enter odds as shown in race results. No decimal is required and should not be used; i.e., 6.50 would be 650, .90 would be 90, 33.50 would be 3350. Entries of 9.90 and less require the User to PRESS ENTER. Odds above 9.90 that are four digits, the system will prompt to next entry; i.e., 10.00 would be 1000 and program prompts to next entry. 9. Weight Column: User enters each greyhound's weight as shown in the race results. PRESS ENTER. Decimal point is required; i.e., 60.5 or 60.0. User will be given the following options: A)ccept, C)ancel, M)odify or D)ead/Heat Adjustment. A)ccept will accept entry, C)ancel will cancel this race setup and permit User to start over. D)ead/Heat Adjustment will permit the User to make an adjustment for any dead heat position. When this is selected the User will be asked to enter the post number to change. User will enter number and PRESS ENTER. User will then be asked to enter finish post. This will permit the User to enter the correct finish post. Once the entry results are accepted the results screen will appear with the cursor positioned at the race # to begin entry of next race. If more than one complete race setup results are being entered, the User can change dates by pressing F10. User does not have to enter a complete race setup once started. User can ESC after any race for an event is entered, and pick up where they left off later. MODIFY RACE LINES This selection permits the User to access the full data base for any greyhound and to make changes when needed. Many programs do not give the User the capability to work directly within the data base. A primary concern for any User or programmer is to protect the valuable data stored within a data base. With SuperSelect$ we have given the User this ability but a word of caution, be careful and take your time. Without a good data base any data base driven program is useless. This selection permits the User to modify race lines as follows: 1. The User will select Modify Race Lines which is found under Data Files from the main menu. 2. The User will enter the name of the greyhound. PRESS ENTER. If a name is entered that is not found in the data base the following message will appear at the bottom of the screen: This name is not in the index...press a key and re-enter data. Correct name can then be entered. The screen for this function will appear with each line in the data base shown at the bottom half of the screen. If fewer than 12 race lines appear in the data base the instruction box will appear. The User must then use the TAB key to select Add, Modify, Quit. If add is chosen the User may enter a complete race line that is not in the data base. If modify is chosen the User must then enter the RC#. This number is shown in the data base lines to the extreme right under the heading RC#. When the RC# is entered by the u%' ' appropriate race line from the data base is then shown in the proper box for that item in the upper half of the screen which will then permit the User to make changes. The first item that can be changed is the Trkcond (track condition). The cursor will be located at this point. The User can then press enter until the cursor moves to the item they need to change. User can then change item and will continue to press enter until the instruction box appears with the message "save this record." The User can select (yes) (no) or (modify). The Tab key must be used to move to desired selection. PRESS ENTER. A second instruction box will appear that will then give the User the option to Add, Modify or Quit. Tab key is used again to make selection. If more than 12 race lines are contained within the data base, the User will use the prompts shown at the bottom of the page. They are: 1. (CR): Control return or enter. This will scroll to other pages of the data base. 2. (Home): Will take the User from whatever page they are on back to the most recent 12 race lines. 3. (End): Will takes the User to the last page of data base. 4. (Pgup) & (Pgdn): Will scroll to previous page or next page. 5. (Esc): Will permit the User to escape to main menu. 6. RC#: User can enter RC# to modify. Changes are made in the same manner as described above. CHANGING A GREYHOUND'S NAME The User is permitted to change a greyhound's name as follows: 1. The User will select Modify Race Lines. 2. The User will enter the name as it presently exist in the data base. 3. The User will enter the first RC# shown in the data base race lines. PRESS ENTER. 4. User can then use the SHIFT < key to move the cursor to the name at which time the correct name may be entered. 5. User will press enter to prompt through the other fields until the instruction box appears at which time the change can be saved and returns the User to the main menu. 6. The User should then attempt to access the new name by using the Modify Race Lines. If new name is not found the User must select the Utilities function and select the Build New Name Index. For additional information refer to topic Build New Name Index. CREATE A ENTRIES FILE This feature was developed for the sole purpose of giving the regular player and User the ability to work in advance so that additional time can be spent in the area of handicapping and decision making. The Create a Entries File permits the User to enter "early entries" that are shown in the official racing program which can then be fully edited and captured as a valid Race Setup File. This procedure is made possible by using these three steps: Create a Entries File, Modify Entries File and then Transfer Entries to Race Setup. Early entries for an upcoming race date are generally shown in the official racing program, but not in the correct post position order. In addition to this, a greyhound may be substituted for another before the official draw for post is made. This selection permits the User to create an early entries file as follows: 1. The User will select Create a Entries File which is found under Reports from the main menu. 2. Enter name of Entry File to use: The User will enter a name for this file with the required extension. PRESS ENTER. Some suggestions would be as follows: for a Tuesday evening event= TUE.TXT, TUE.DOC or TUE.EVE, for a Saturday Matinee= SAT.MAT. The main consideration is that when two events occur on the same day you must have two separate names so that the system can distinguish between them. The Entry File screen will then appear ready to accept data. 3. Date: The User will enter the date for the event. 4. Performance: The User will enter the performance code for matinee, evening or schooling. PRESS ENTER. 5. Course: The use will enter the course code 1= 3/16, 3= 3/8, 5= 5/16 or 7= 7/16. PRESS ENTER. 6. Grade: The User will enter the grade for this event. PRESS ENTER. 7. Race No: The User will enter the race number for this event. PRESS ENTER. 8. The User will then enter each greyhound's name. They DO NOT have to be in any specific order. New names not found in the data base can added at this time. After all eight names are entered the cursor will move back to the item "Course" for the User to begin entry of race two. Once all early entries are entered the User can press ESC to exit to main menu. The User can now modify or edit this file at a later date. Refer to the instructions Modify Entries File covering this topic. MODIFY ENTRIES FILE This selection permits the User to edit an early entries file so that all data is accurate before converting to a valid Race Setup. A early entries file may be edited as follows: 1. The User will select Modify Entries File which is found under Reports from the main menu. 2. Enter name of Entry File to use: The User will enter the name including the file extension that was previously saved. PRESS ENTER. The editing screen will then appear ready for changes to be made. 3. Race No: User will enter the number for the race to be changed. PRESS ENTER. 4. The instruction box, which to change, will appear with three options: <Post>, <Dogs>, or <Next Race>. User will PRESS ENTER for <Post>. 5. The User will enter the correct post number for each name that appears. 6. The User will press F1 to sort. If no greyhounds were substituted, User will use Tab key and select <Next Race>. PRESS ENTER. 7. If a greyhound has been substituted, the User will then select <Dogs> and move to the correct post for this greyhound and enter his name. The User will then press F10 to save, and then select <Next Race> until all races have been edited and are accurate. User will press ESC to save all changes. The User can now convert this file to a valid race setup. Refer to instructions Transfer Entries to Race Setup covering this topic. TRANSFER ENTRIES TO RACE SETUP Once an early entries file has been created and modified for accuracy the User can convert this file to a valid race setup file. The User will select this function which is found under Reports from the main menu. The program will prompt the User: Enter name of entry file. User will enter the file name they used and PRESS ENTER. File is then converted to a valid race setup file. The old file name will still exist in the SS directory. Once the file has been converted the User should erase the old file name from the directory using the DOS erase command. DOS SHELL The purpose of DOS Shell is to permit the User the ability to exit to DOS for whatever reason and return to SuperSelect$. This function is found under Data Files from the main menu. The User can return to SuperSelect$ by typing EXIT and PRESS ENTER. SHOW NAMES The purpose of Show Names is to permit the User the ability to see what greyhounds' names are on file and how many exist in the data base. This function is found under Data Files from the main menu. When the User selects this function, the number of names that exist in the data base are shown at the top of the screen. They will be instructed to press A-Z or (Escape) to Quit. If the letter A is pressed all greyhounds with names beginning in A are shown on the screen in alphabetically order. If more than one page exist the User will press any key to continue. SHOW CURRENT RACES This selection permits the User to see which race setups are on file. This function can assist the User in showing which race results have not been entered. Once the results are entered for a given race, that race date is eliminated. The program also has the ability to retain all race setups and will then show the date the results were entered. The User has the option to chose which method they wish to use. This default setting is shown as Hold Race which is found under Data File Controls. The following guidelines may assist you in determining which setting is best for your situation: 1. If a default setting of "O" is used, the file for that specific date and race is erased. The User cannot perform further analysis for these races without re-entering the setup. 2. If a default setting of "1" is used, the file will still exist and will show the date the results were entered. The User will still have the ability to perform further analysis if desired without having to re-enter a race setup. It is also worth mentioning that when this method is used additional files are being added which require space on the hard drive. An occasional clean up may be required by the User. REPORTS The Reports module offers the User several reports which will further assist in their handicapping decisions. An example of each report is enclosed in the User's Guide for reference. Once a data base is established the User can become better acquainted by actually using and obtaining the reports offered. Listed below is a brief description and the primary function of each. 1. Average Winning Race Times: This report displays the average win time for each grade level and course for a selected date range. The User has the option to send this report to the screen, a disk file or to the printer. 2. Create Personal Racing Form: This report offers the User the ability to print from his data base their personal racing form. The User has the ability to print up to 12 past performance lines from his data base. The form is automatically printed in a condensed format with all eight entries on a single page. Post 1 through 4 are shown on the left side and post 5 through 8 to the right. A race setup for the event must exist to perform this option. A file is created in the directory with the name "PROGRAM." The User must use the DOS PRINT COMMAND to print the program; i.e., print program. Once the program is printed the User can remove this file by using the DOS ERASE COMMAND; i.e., erase program. 3. Race Lines for a Greyhound: This report displays all past performance race lines contained in the data base. The User has the option to send this report to the screen, a disk file or to the printer. 4. Average Time for a Greyhound: This report will display the average run time for a selected greyhound. The average time from each post is displayed along with their best time for each post. In addition the best time for each post by grade is displayed. The User has the option to send this report to the screen, a disk file or the printer. 5. Compare Previous races 2 W/1: This report gives the User the ability to compare one greyhound with two others. If the selected greyhounds have competed with each other in the past the race line for each event is displayed. This function is screen displayed only. 6. Entry Stats: To perform this function a race setup must exist for the event. This report gives the User a statistical analysis for each greyhound for a given race. Each greyhound and their post position are shown. In addition the following information is shown for each greyhound:their post record, average time for this post (post time), average off post call (o/p avg), average 1/8th call (1/8 avg), average stretch call (str avg), average finish (fin avg) and their average time for all post. The User has the option to select the number of races to be analyzed. The User also has the option to sort the file by post position, average post time, or average time. A file is created in the directory with the prefix ST and then the date of the event. The DOS PRINT command must be used to print this file. Matinee events will have no file extension and evening events will have the extension fil. to assist the User in recognizing matinee and evening events; i.e., ST12-02 would be a matinee, ST12-02.fil would be a evening event. The file is automatically printed in a condensed format and accommodates 8 1/2 x 14 paper. The report can handle up to a 16 race event. RENUMBER DOG ID Each greyhound that is in your database is assigned a numeric ID code when you enter that dog for the first time. As you add racelines to your database, that same ID number is stored in the raceline data. This number is only used to insure the correct raceline belongs to the proper dog and is only used when you have the need to modify a raceline. The program will check the ID number in the raceline with the ID number assigned to the greyhound. If the numbers don't match you will be signaled that the raceline you want to modify does not belong to that dog. Make sure you requested the proper raceline number by entering the RC# again. If you have entered the correct RC# (shown on your screen), then for some reason this raceline has lost its ID number. It is rare this will happen, but this utility will renumber your entire raceline database over again. This process could take several minutes to hours depending on the size of your database and the speed of your computer. The ID numbers have no other function in the system other than creating the relationship between racelines and dogs. Renumbering will not affect any other process. To use this function, the User will select Re-Number Dogs ID which is found under the main menu Utilities. The process will start immediately by PRESSING ENTER. BUILD NEW INDEX During the course of entering greyhound names, you may on occasion misspell a name and need to correct the spelling. You must change the name in the modify screen by selecting any raceline. Use the shift "<" character to move up to the name field. Enter the correct spelling. If the new spelling is so different from the last spelling that you can no longer bring up that dog, then this utility must be used to re-sort the index order of names. This could take some time, again depending on the size of your index and speed of your computer. A back-up copy of your original index will be made in your data directory. To use this function, the User will select Build New Name Index which is found under the main menu Utilities. The process will start immediately by PRESSING ENTER. CHANGE DEFAULT TRACK The SuperSelect$ program was designed so that the User could handle multiple tracks within the same program. Each data base as well as the configuration files for each track default is kept separately within subdirectries. To setup additional tracks the User must do the following: 1. Select Data File Controls found under Parameters from the main menu. User will then establish data file controls for the new track which will include the track code. Refer to Track Codes List. 2. Once the configuration data is completed the following message will appear: New Track Code..Save and Change Y/N. When the Y is entered the User will then be reminded to create kennel, calculation and time parameters. User will select (F10) Save, (F9) Modify or (Esc) to Cancel. 3. User will then establish kennel codes, time parameters and analysis formulas for the new track. The new default track setting is then prepared to except data for greyhounds competing at this track. The User can then use the Change Default Track function to change to whichever track data base they wish to work with. To do so the User selects this function and enters the two character code and presses enter. The selected track default will then change. BACK-UP DATA Back up your data regularly! You'll be glad you did when that first disk crashes. This utility has been designed to work with one of three compression programs. ARJ, PKZIP or LHA. These are available as a shareware product on most BBS services. We cannot include these with the SuperSelect$ package. They are available for download on our support BBS, "the Dog Squad" at (901)387-0252. It is your responsibility to honor the shareware registration of these compression programs. If you expect to use this utility then you should select one of the three compression programs and place the executable program within your DOS path. The best place to put the program should be the same directory holding SuperSelect$. You should have entered a 'P', 'A', or 'L' in the data parameters screen for the archiving/backup utility you will be using. The backup process will compress all data in your default race directory. Programs will not be archived in this process. You should have the original diskettes that will contain all these programs. The data should compress down to approximately 25% of its original size. Of course this will vary, depending on the compression program you use, but 25% is the average. A full year of data can create a database over 4 meg. A minimum 1.2 meg floppy would be required to maintain a backup copy of a database this size in compressed form. If you choose another method for backing up, remember to perform the back up on a regular basis. HELP MENU SuperSelect$ offers the User an on-line help menu covering the basic function of each selection available. The database help menu summarizes the functions for all the categories found under the following main menu topics: Data Files, Race SetUp, Parameters and Reports. The utilities help menu summarizes utilities functions only. The help menu can be activated by selecting either Database or Utilities from the Help Menu. The User can use PgUp/PgDn keys to scroll the help files. ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART I The final item to be covered is performing a race analysis. Many hours have been spent in preparing the program so that this function can be utilized. I believe everyone will find their efforts rewarding as I have for so many years. I have purposely divided this area into two parts. The first part will cover the steps the User will follow in obtaining a race analysis and the makeup of the screen as it will appear. I will then take the process a step further and offer suggestions and pointers that may further assist you. This selection permits the User to perform a race analysis for a specific race setup file. The information that you have stored in data files for each greyhound is now scored. The scores and analysis that will appear for each race event are derived from the default settings you have established for Default Times and Analysis Formulas. 1. The User will select Analyze a Race Performance which is found under Race SetUp from the main menu. 2. Date of Race: User will enter the date for the race setup to be analyzed. 3. Performance: User will enter the performance code they have established for matinee, evening or schooling races. The code must be the same that was used in the race setup for the event to be analyzed. PRESS ENTER. 4. Maximum Previous Race Lines: User will enter the number of race lines they wish the program to analyze and score. PRESS ENTER. A second box will appear showing the names of each greyhound as the program performs the analysis. ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART I The following is an example of the screen that will appear when all calculations are completed. SuperSelects Predicted Analysis ... Race 1 Course 5 Grade D Post Greyhound Post% AvgScore Score6 ScoreAll #Races Box 1 MOUND BAYOU 40.00 67 410 1005 15 Box 2 EMORY 33.33 72 300 1080 15 Box 3 DGS GRETEL 100.00 135 405 405 3 Box 4 TATO SKINS 100.00 183 550 550 3 Box 5 KEOTA SUMMER 26.67 45 170 670 15 Box 6 KANSAS RANGY 15.38 60 370 785 13 Box 7 POOL SHARK 40.00 91 825 1360 15 Box 8 BANOCY 16.67 105 335 1265 12 Race Picks from Average Score : 4 3 8 7 2 1 6 5 Race Picks from Last 6 Lines : 7 4 1 3 6 8 2 5 Race Picks from Total Score : 7 8 2 1 6 5 4 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Time 575 750 225 300 250 475 675 775 PES 160 160 120 40 160 205 425 290 PLS 190 90 0 190 180 0 0 0 SLS 0 0 0 0 0 0 60 30 BRK/OP 80 80 60 20 80 105 225 170 GRADE 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 1005 1080 405 550 670 785 1360 1265 AvgTime 33.49 33.46 33.26 33.14 33.64 33.59 33.44 33.36 Avg6Time 33.49 33.63 33.26 33.14 33.67 33.57 33.27 33.54 The screen actually consist of three parts. The top section shows each greyhound and their correct post for this event. To the immediate right of each box and name the following items appear: The first item that appears to the right of each name is their post %. This is the greyhound's post % for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishes for this post based upon the maximum number of race lines selected to analyze. The next item is their AvgScore. This is their total score divided by the number of race lines shown to the far right. Score6 is each greyhound's score for their last 6 trips to the starting box. ScoreAll or total score is each greyhound's score for the maximum number of race lines selected by the User to analyze. The next item is the #Races. As you can see from the example the numbers vary.The purpose of this is to show the User the number of race lines found for this distance based upon the maximum number selected by the User for the specific distance of this event. In the example, 15 race lines was selected to be analyzed. The course for this event is 5 which reflects the 5/16ths distance and the grade of this event is D. Greyhounds #1, #2, #5 and #7 shows 15 races which tells the User the last 15 races found and scored were for the 5/16ths distance Greyhounds #3 and #4 shows 3 races which points out two possibilities. They either have only 3 races in the data base or only 3 were for the 5/16ths distance and the balance was from other distances. The same would be true with greyhounds #6 and #8. If SuperSelect$ had been hard coded the User possibly would not have known this and the program would generate selections based upon my beliefs no matter how many race lines existed. In reality what is happening the program is waving a "big red flag" to the User letting them know to "look again" or better yet, "look further." ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART I The middle section shows the race picks. The three shown cover all three methods of scoring by the program. The bottom half of the report reflects the raw scores for each factor listed for the post positions 1 through 8. In addition each greyhound's average time is shown, based upon the maximum number of lines selected to analyze, along with their average time for score6 or last 6 trips to the starting box. Many User's may have expected to find a simple screen showing the finish order only. As you can see that's not the situation with SuperSelect$ and by no means was it meant to overwhelm the User. Instead we have given the User control over the factors and their assigned values. In doing so we have also given the User the ability to see the end results offering even further assistance. ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART II Part II of the race analysis offers the User suggestions and pointers that maybe of further assistance when using the race analysis screen. The material covered in this part has been derived from my own personal experiences in usingthe program and the steps that I take when using SuperSelect$. As with any new program the User first feels awkward until they are fully acclimated or a comfort level is established. A User can overcome this by putting the program to use, and more importantly re-reading the material until they have good knowledge of how the program functions in its entirety. Many User's of handicapping software are under the assumption that a handicapping package does everything for them and all that is required from the User is the input of data and out comes what they should be playing. Personally speaking I live in the realm of reality and I sure want to believe our customers do as well. Whenever handicapping, print your personal race program and use the stats in conjunction with the analysis and you will have an edge that the majority of players don't have. If you don't agree with the selections after analyzing the other data, don't hesitate in making adjustments. I sure do because I know the output can't always be 100%. Let strong data point you in a specific direction whereas other data may wave a flag of caution all in an effort to help you either substantiate the choices shown or giving you the knowledge and ability to make adjustments. When performing a race analysis I generally use 15 race lines to be analyzed. This is especially true when the conditions are somewhat unfavorable for the greyhounds to perform at their best such as winter months etc. Since West Memphis is a year round track I tend to lean towards 9 race lines in summer months when the greyhounds perform at their best. The User may also have to adjust the time factors downward when track conditions are at their best and move them upward when conditions are slower. The first thing I do when I look at the selection screen is to look at the breakdown of scores by factors for each greyhound and compare these to all others. I examine the number of races analyzed to see if a flag may exist with a greyhound having only a few races. I look for strong time scores, good breakers and for the closers. I also pay close attention to the post % and the comparison of time at the bottom of the screen. While doing this I use my personal program and the stats. I ask myself do I agree or not with the selections shown. By using the other materials available, I may decide on other selections or agree with the selections that are given. Many times I may agree with the numbers but not the order that is shown. The following example may shed a better understanding of the process I use whenever performing a race analysis. ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART II The steps I take when using the program are as follows: 1. A race setup is performed which is required. 2. Print the Entry Stats for the race setup. 3. Print my personal race program. I want to see more than just 6 race lines. I generally use 10 to 12. 4. Perform the race analysis. 5. Analyze the complete screen while comparing screen information with other data. (race program and entry stats) SuperSelects Predicted Analysis ... Race 1 Course 5 Grade D Post Greyhound Post% AvgScore Score6 ScoreAll #Races Box 1 MOUND BAYOU 40.00 67 410 1005 15 Box 2 EMORY 33.33 72 300 1080 15 Box 3 DGS GRETEL 100.00 135 405 405 3 Box 4 TATO SKINS 100.00 183 550 550 3 Box 5 KEOTA SUMMER 26.67 45 170 670 15 Box 6 KANSAS RANGY 15.38 60 370 785 13 Box 7 POOL SHARK 40.00 91 825 1360 15 Box 8 BANOCY 16.67 105 335 1265 12 Race Picks from Average Score : 4 3 8 7 2 1 6 5 Race Picks from Last 6 Lines : 7 4 1 3 6 8 2 5 Race Picks from Total Score : 7 8 2 1 6 5 4 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Time 575 750 225 300 250 475 675 775 PES 160 160 120 40 160 205 425 290 PLS 190 90 0 190 180 0 0 0 SLS 0 0 0 0 0 0 60 30 BRK/OP 80 80 60 20 80 105 225 170 GRADE 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 1005 1080 405 550 670 785 1360 1265 AvgTime 33.49 33.46 33.26 33.14 33.64 33.59 33.44 33.36 Avg6Time 33.49 33.63 33.26 33.14 33.67 33.57 33.27 33.54 The race shown above ran the evening of 12-14-92. The first thing I noticed was #3 and #4 with only 3 race lines. The picks avg score & picks last 6 had the number's, but were they a legitimate play. After looking at my personal program I fully agreed that #4 & #3 posed a serious threat for this field of contenders. 12 of 15 races for #4 was over the 3/8ths distance, most of which were good efforts. She was 100% in the money from the 2 & 3 box. The #2 was a newcomer winning her 1st trip from the 2 box and finishing 2nd twice from the 3 box. The analysis screen pointed to 4 greyhounds who recent efforts were consistent based upon their running time. #1, #3, #4 and #7. The stats and race program also pointed out that the #8 greyhound could be a factor for past efforts from this box as well as #7 for his early speed and ability to finish well from this post. To conclude I agreed with the selections #4 and #3. They would in my opinion show the way with a clear trip from tonights box against a field of contenders that were not well boxed, and giving poor recent efforts. My selections were 4-3-7-1. The results were 4-3-2-6 with the quiniela paying $25.80. Also worth mentioning is which method of selection do I tend to use more often than the other's. Actually I use two, Picks Avg Score and Picks Last 6 Race Lines. I have found these two to be more accurate and also tend to guide me in one direction or another much quicker than the total score. ANALYZE A RACE PERFORMANCE PART II In closing I would have to say the best advice I can offer anyone would be to first build a good data base. Capture results on a timely basis, including schooling races. Once a reasonable amount of past race lines exist, run the analysis and observe the results. Don't hesitate in testing the program. Factors or values may need adjusting and the only way to find out is by experimenting and testing.