I don't understand why velocity is positive here?

[Frankenstein19]

Homework Statement

It says that a horse gallops 116m away from its trainer in 14.0s and then abruptly turns and gallops halfway back in 4.8s.

I need to calculate average velocity . displacement/ time elapsed. displacement is xf-xi.

Homework Equations

avg velocity= displacement/ time elapsed

displacement = xf-xi

The Attempt at a Solution

Shouldn't it be (58-116)/18.8? the solutions manual says its 116-58/18.8...why?

 

[Frankenstein19]

Homework Statement

It says that a horse gallops 116m away from its trainer in 14.0s and then abruptly turns and gallops halfway back in 4.8s.

I need to calculate average velocity . displacement/ time elapsed. displacement is xf-xi.

Homework Equations

avg velocity= displacement/ time elapsed

displacement = xf-xi

The Attempt at a Solution

Shouldn't it be (58-116)/18.8? the solutions manual says its 116-58/18.8...why?

Nevermind, it's a dumb question I got it. xi does not equal to 116, it's equal to zero.