Archive
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
Letter of the Week

Form solid but can improve

It is worth proposing some presentational reforms to the Sky Form Line program.
It was remarkable that the commentary was able to “correct” by a substantial margin the “time” run by a key winner of a Slipper lead-up race. It is disgraceful that broadcasts of our metropolitan races do not have the sectionals — and correct time — displayed automatically.
It is refreshing that Sky’s preference for “well modulated” voiceovers does not preclude the presenters speaking “Australian” — saying “anythink” is far preferable to “anything”, because it suggests thought.
Finally, the display of “tipped” horse names should always be accompanied by the number of the horse in the race, otherwise viewers are scrambling to find the number.
All up, one might say the Form Line program was good — and a welcome lift in professional standard from the giggling distraction of the Get On team on TVN.
There is, however, a very reasonable concern that a Tabcorp-owned media will influence the presentation of views that will boost TAB turnover. The ACCC should monitor Sky to detect any nonsense aimed at boosting turnover.
Ideally Tabcorp would not be permitted to own any racing broadcast media.

Peter Mair
Wandong (NSW)
Today's Racing
Friday 29 March
Saturday 30 March
Sunday 31 March