Section R. 431.4210 - StartingRule 4210.
(1) The official starter shall have control of the horses from the formation of the parade until he or she gives the word "go".(2) The official starter shall notify the drivers when to come to the starting gate. During or before the parade, the drivers shall be informed as to the number of scores permitted.(3) The horses shall be brought to the starting gate as near a quarter of a mile before the starting line as the race course will permit.(4) Allowing sufficient time so that the speed of the gate can be increased gradually, the following minimum speeds shall be maintained: (a) For the first 1/8 mile, not less than 11 miles per hour.(b) For the next 1/16 of a mile, not less than 18 miles per hour.(c) From the point specified in subdivision (b) of this subrule to the starting point, the speed shall be gradually increased to maximum speed.(5) On mile race courses, horses shall be brought to the starting gate at the head of the stretch and the relative speeds mentioned in subrule (4) of this rule shall be maintained.(6) The starting point shall be a distance of not less than 200 feet from the first turn. The official starter shall give the word "go" at the starting point.(7) When a particular speed has been reached in the course of a start, the speed shall not be decreased, except in the case of a recall.Mich. Admin. Code R. 431.4210
1985 AACS; 2021 MR 6, Eff. 3/26/2021