The SRP: Much More Than Just a New Clock at Palermo

The racetrack has implemented a state-of-the-art satellite timing system that will not only deliver precise fractions, but also feature modern graphics and provide essential data

By Diego H. Mitagstein

After a long wait, Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo is set to finally settle an old debt—and in grand fashion—with the upcoming implementation of the Sistema de Rastreadores de Posicionamiento (SRP), a GPS-based timing and tracking system that is far more than just a stopwatch.

“Yes, it was something we owed ourselves,” said Palermo General Manager Federico Spangenberg in an interview with Turf Diario, clearly relieved. “The timer we had was already quite outdated, and it needed to be upgraded. That’s why we’re now bringing in one of the most widely used technologies: satellite timing.”

Palermo will now be part of the Gmax Race System, developed by Gmax Technology Ltd. in partnership with Total Performance Data Ltd., the same technology used at events such as the Breeders’ Cup, Royal Ascot, the Dubai World Cup, the Saudi Cup, and the U.S. Triple Crown.

Spangenberg offered further details: “This technology doesn’t just record times—it adds a lot of value in terms of visuals. The new on-screen graphics will be modern and dynamic, but beyond that, we’ll now have incredibly detailed data on each horse.”

The SRP will track the exact meters each runner covers, display the margins between horses, provide individual sectionals and final times for every competitor.

How does it work? Spangenberg explained: “Each horse will carry two devices in its saddlecloth. Using GPS technology and antenna triangulation, we’ll pinpoint their exact position on the track. That data will be integrated into the television graphics, making the races much easier to follow. It’s what we see in top international events at premier racecourses, and it’s a huge step forward for the bettor experience—they’ll have a much clearer idea of where their horse is throughout the race. On the back end, the system also generates a wealth of valuable information.”

The rollout of the new system will come with regulatory and compliance adjustments, which were already outlined in a resolution issued by the track’s stewards.

“All horses must use the SRP system properly and without alteration, and the responsibility falls on the trainer, groom, and jockey in their respective roles,” the resolution states. “Any tampering with or intentional interference of the equipment may result in sanctions.”

It also clarifies that if a device malfunctions and fails to transmit data, the race result will still stand.

“We’re in the final stages now,” said Spangenberg. “A portion of the installation has already been completed, the company’s team has been here, several antennas are in place, and we’re in the process of importing the rest of the equipment—which is a challenge in itself. We’re aiming to have everything up and running by the Gran Premio República Argentina on May 1. We’ll do a few tests beforehand that won’t be broadcast, but we’re really hoping to debut it for the May Day celebration so everyone can experience it.”

Among the notable improvements, the SRP will also bring a major change to the way races are timed from the gate.

“The placement of the starting gate will change. The discrepancies that exist today will be eliminated,” Spangenberg said. “With the new system, the timer will begin the moment the gates open, and the gate will be placed exactly at the start point of the race. Currently, the gate sits behind that point, and each pole has a different offset, meaning times are recorded at a rolling start. This will change all that and finally bring full transparency to a flaw that’s been around forever.”

The news is sure to be welcomed across the Argentine racing community—not only for the promise of accurate timing, but also for the visual modernization of race broadcasts. What fans are accustomed to seeing at the sport’s biggest events will now be available at the heart of Argentine racing.