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The Starter DOES NOT AND NEVER DID have a mandated starting speed! Starting races is a job that requires the ability to be sure most of the field is within 6 I niches of the gate as it crosses the release point. The driver of the gate works in harmony with the the starter in most situations also.It take experience to be able to deliver consistent starts.
I remember a specified speed for i think 16 ths of a mile . They even had a starting gate at Pompano was programed to go those speeds. Maybe 30 years ago.?
Programmed starting gate?
I've heard about that. Whether it's true, I don't know. I'll have to ask some people I know and find out.
Programmed to open or governed speed of gate car?
i think the speed of the car.
That would be a concern as they need to accelerate out of the way once the gate folds.
A Patrol Judge used to be sitting next to the Starter back in 80's &90's.Any track that could get permission not to use one sent them packing as a cost cutting maneuver!On top of having the "gas Pedal" and swinging the wings of the gate, the starter is also a judge who has to look for broken equip, horses out of position, interference, drivers in the wrong position, lame horse, etc across the whole field.