Frequently asked questions.

AI is a tool we use like any other tool. We use AI to accelerate software development and testing, to assist with handicapping analysis and the evaluation of results, and to help efficiently summarize, format, and present HCRALabs picks in our Race Sheets. But the foundation of HCRALabs is disciplined quantitative research—not a claim that any single technology can predict a race with certainty.

HCRALabs combines mathematics, statistics, machine learning, and rigorously curated racing data to uncover overlooked racing angles and test their predictive value. Our research evaluates hypotheses against historical results and runs millions of simulated race scenarios. Every addition to HCRALabs products goes through a defined, non-negotiable validation process before release.

Our data covers the tracks we support, with records dating back to January 1, 2023. The growing research foundation includes:

Coverage grows weekly. For more about the people, philosophy, and methodology behind our work, read Behind HCRA Labs.

Our current focus is on major tracks: Saratoga (SAR), Churchill Downs (CD), Keeneland (KEE), Del Mar (DMR), Santa Anita (SA), Oaklawn Park (OP), and Belmont Park (BEL). We are considering additional tracks based on demand.

We welcome requests for customized services or coverage of tracks we do not currently support. Email support@hcralabs.com with what you need, and we would be happy to discuss possible arrangements.

No. Dark Day Thoughts and Behind HCRA Labs are publicly readable. An account is needed to participate in article discussions and to claim or download member-only Race Sheets.

Published Race Sheets are currently available to verified members at no charge. Any future paid offering will be explained before members are asked to purchase it.

Use the Sign in link and enter the verification code sent to your email. Membership requires a verified email and completed member profile.

Look for an email from login@hcralabs.com. If you do not see it in your inbox, check Spam/Junk and the Promotions tab. If it is in Spam, mark it as Not Spam to help future codes reach your inbox. You can also add login@hcralabs.com to your contacts so your email provider is more likely to recognize the sender. If you entered the wrong address, return to the email-entry screen and request a new code. If you still need help, email support@hcralabs.com.

Yes. Visit your Member page to edit your display name at any time. It appears on future personalized PDF downloads and alongside your published comments. Inappropriate or misleading names are not permitted.

HCRA Labs Race Sheets summarize pre-race analysis, contender rankings, race-specific evidence, and important uncertainty. They are opinions for informational purposes, not guaranteed outcomes.

Select Daily Picks in the main navigation to browse available Race Sheets. Sign in and open your Member page. Under Daily Racing Intelligence, select Get Free Report for the Race Sheet you want. It will appear in My Pick Sheets, where you can download your personalized PDF. For Race Sheets from earlier dates, visit the Archive.

Each downloaded Race Sheet is personalized and includes an identifying download reference. This helps associate an individual copy with the registered account that requested it. Your original online member profile remains private.

Some Race Sheets include fillable notes fields. When present, they are retained in personalized downloads. Your PDF viewer must support fillable forms for editing and saving your notes.

No. We provide independent racing research and predictions. HCRA Labs does not accept or place wagers, and no selection is guaranteed to win or produce a financial return.

Our goal is to present the information most relevant to understanding a race without overwhelming readers. We describe the analytical principles and limitations while protecting proprietary methodology and implementation details. For a deeper explanation of our approach, read Behind HCRA Labs.

Email support@hcralabs.com with account or report-access questions. For gambling support, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling.