Hi RaceBasers,
The ratings-based events will continue into the new season. The
Progressive Special Handicap events run so far this season have been
awful in relation to field quality. Let's hope they improve!
Regards
Neil F
NZ Herald
Ratings based races will replace intermediate and progressive grade
events when the new racing season starts on August 1.
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has approved the new system
which follows the introduction of the rating-based handicapping
system last year.
All lower grade races, with the exception of premier quality events,
will have a ratings band.
As a guide, horses currently eligible for intermediate races will be
able to run in races up to a rating of 76. Progressive races would be
the equivalent of a rating up to 92.
It is likely the ratings will vary, particularly at mid-week meetings
where there could be a top level of 83 for the equivalent progressive
race.
NZTR chief executive Allan Fenwick said the idea of the new system
was to provide more opportunities for horses to race and to allow
them to be more competitive.
Every horse has its own rating and this is updated after every start.
The ratings can be viewed on the NZTR website.
As a result of the new ratings-based races, the current drop-back in
grade provisions become obsolete.
It is planned to continue with the premier quality events for the
first four months of the new season when they will be reviewed.
NZTR has also confirmed changes to minimum weights from the start of
the new season.
The minimum weight for all handicap races, except group and listed
stakes' events, will rise from 52 to 53kg. The minimum topweight for
handicap races, except two- and three-year-old events, will increase
from 57 to 58kg. For maiden races, colts, geldings and entires will
carry 57kg and fillies and mares 55.5kg.
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