Kempton Racecourse: Configuration & Draw Bias

Kempton is a right-handed, flat Polytrack course, and uniquely the only all-weather surface in the UK with a right-handed configuration. The track is oval-shaped and features two distinct circuits:

Inner Circuit:

• Used for 5f and 10f
• Features tight turns and a short finishing straight (just under 2 furlongs)
• Strongly favors speedy, front-running types, especially over 5f where early positioning is critical

Outer Circuit:

• Used for 6f to 8f races
• Offers sweeping bends and a longer straight (approximately 3 furlongs)
• Provides a fairer test of stamina and tactical speed

Draw Bias by Distance

• 5f (Inner) Stalls 9-12, strong bias: Early speed and wide draw can dominate
• 6f (Outer) Stalls 1-4, strong bias: Low draw and front-running style preferred
• 7f (Outer) Low-mid, moderate bias: Tactical speed helps. Stall 1 & 2 win around ⅓ of the races
• 1m (Outer) Stalls 1-5, mild bias: Positioning matters more than the draw alone
• 9f (Outer) Low, strong bias: Prominent runners outperform, short run-in
• 10f (Inner) Stalls 1-4, strong bias: Wide draws must secure good early position

Key Tactical Insight

• The run to the first bend over 5f and 6f is relatively short, placing a premium on early pace and draw position
• Across all distances, front-runners consistently outperform their rivals, especially when paired with a favorable draw.
• Bias strength is contextual—field size, pace setup, and jockey tactics can amplify or reduce its impact. It’s not just about stall numbers, but how they interact with race distance, circuit layout, and running style

Key Takeaways

Stall 1 is the most successful across sprint distances (5f and 6f), and a front-running style from low numbers is a major advantage. Over longer distances, stall bias is less pronounced, but middle stalls are slightly favoured.