As for EXIF, these are all 1/800 sec and f/2.8. ISOs are 6400 for all but the "over the bar" shots, which are 3200. Our track is NOT well lit. All are with the Canon 300 f/2.8L Mk II -- an amazing lens by all measures and not that heavy at all. No monopod used--all hand-held.
No, I haven't compared the original and the Mark II 300mm f/2.8L -- just got the latter (used here) as a loaner from a VERY generous friend.