I\'ve always looked at class as the willingness of a horse to run to the maximum of their ability, especially under adverse conditions.  Holy Bull\'s Travers and Personal Ensign\'s Distaff come immediately to mind.  In this view neither class nor speed trumps the other outside of a specific event.  The problem is it can\'t be quantified by anything beyond gut feeling.

Back when I worked for one of the ADWs the tote system was controlled by the stewards.  Some tracks like Remington were notorious for shutting down wagering as they were loading in the gates, before the break resulting in a wave of calls.  I would imagine open and close is logged even in this backwards technology but I doubt any of the vendors have an interest in disclosure.