We've been told that artificial intelligence is going to take over the world while also taking over the jobs currently being done by humans. I would imagine that would include the press coverage of horse races. I might have 35-years experience on the job, but that doesn't mean I match up to computers or machines being able to simulate human intelligence to perform tasks or solve problems. They say that within our lifetimes, artificial intelligence (AI) will have altered our world more significantly and faster than any other technology since the discovery of electricity.
But can AI do a better job writing a story for the Thoroughbred Daily News than I can and wouldn't that make me expendable? It turns out I have nothing to fear.
Perhaps some day this will change, but when it comes to horse racing coverage AI isn't ready for prime time. I have turned to ChatGPT, which is a large language model-based chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched on November 30, 2022. It is notable for enabling users to refine and steer a conversation towards a desired length, format, style, level of detail, and language used.
I've asked ChatGPT to write several stories based on recent occurrences in racing. Every time, the result is nothing sort of gibberish and nonsense and factual errors. Let's take this example, when I asked ChatGPT to “write a story about Forte winning the Jim Dandy.”
Here's what the computer came up with:
“Once upon a time in the world of horse racing, there was a magnificent thoroughbred named Forte. He was a striking chestnut stallion with a strong and muscular build, and his eyes gleamed with a fiery determination. Forte was known for his incredible speed and relentless spirit on the racetrack, and he had captured the hearts of racing enthusiasts around the world.
“The Jim Dandy Stakes was one of the most prestigious horse racing events of the year. Held at the historic Saratoga Race Course, it attracted the finest three-year-old horses in the country. The anticipation was electric as the day of the race approached, and Forte's name was on everyone's lips.
“Forte was owned by Mr. Richard Anderson, a passionate horse lover who had invested his heart and soul into raising and training Forte to be the champion he was. He had a team of skilled trainers and jockeys who worked tirelessly to prepare Forte for the big race.
“As the morning of the Jim Dandy Stakes dawned, the Saratoga Race Course was buzzing with excitement. The grandstands were packed with cheering spectators, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Forte's presence was captivating, and whispers of his victories from previous races circulated among the crowd.
“The gates opened, and the horses thundered down the track. Forte's jockey, a talented and experienced rider named Mike, guided him skillfully through the pack. As they rounded the first turn, Forte's stride was powerful, and he surged ahead, taking the lead.
“But the Jim Dandy Stakes was no ordinary race, and the competition was fierce. Other top-class horses were vying for the win, and they were not willing to let Forte have an easy victory. The race intensified as they entered the backstretch, and Forte faced the challenge of maintaining his lead.
“In the final turn, two formidable opponents closed in, and the race became a neck-and-neck battle. The spectators held their breath as the horses charged toward the finish line. Forte's heart pounded, and he could feel the determination of his jockey urging him forward.
“In a display of pure grit and determination, Forte found another burst of energy. With every ounce of strength in his powerful legs, he surged ahead, crossing the finish line in a triumphant burst of speed. The cheers from the crowd were deafening as Forte was declared the winner of the Jim Dandy Stakes!
“Mr. Anderson, tears of joy streaming down his face, rushed to embrace his beloved stallion. The victory was not just a testament to Forte's exceptional talent but also a celebration of the incredible bond between a horse and his owner. Forte had earned his place in racing history as one of the greatest champions of all time.
“The Jim Dandy Stakes victory was a turning point in Forte's career. He went on to win many more prestigious races, solidifying his status as a legendary racehorse. His story inspired generations of racing enthusiasts, and his name became synonymous with greatness.
“As the sun set on the day of the Jim Dandy Stakes, Forte stood proudly in his stable, bathed in the golden light of his accomplishments. He had proven that with courage, dedication, and a heart of a champion, any dream could be realized – a true testament to the spirit of horse racing and the indomitable Forte.”
So he is owned by Mr. Richard Anderson and his jockey is an experienced rider named Mike. Okay. And where was Todd Pletcher, Mike Repole, Irtad Ortiz Jr. and the DQ that was not? But I'm sure Repole and Pletcher will be pleased to know that Forte's “story inspired generations of racing enthusiasts, and his name became synonymous with greatness.”
Secretariat wins the Belmont. But where is Henry? | Bob Coglianese photo
Okay, so maybe ChaptGPT just had a bad day. I decided to give it another chance, asking it to write a story explaining why Secretariat was such a great horse. Bet you didn't know that much of Secretariat's success was due to his unmistakable bond with his caretaker Henry. Who?
“But it wasn't just his physical attributes that set him apart; it was his unique relationship with his caretaker, Henry, a wise and gentle stable hand,” the AI-generated story read. “Henry had spent his entire life working with horses, and he had a special connection with these noble creatures. He treated them with respect and love, understanding that their greatness came not just from their physical abilities but from the bond they formed with those who cared for them. With Secretariat, he saw something extraordinary—an intelligence and understanding that went beyond the ordinary.”
Two stories, both ridiculous. I'm here to stay. In fact, maybe it's time to ask for a raise.
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