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Letter of the Week

Tipping point

Channel 7’s “stable” of channels covering racing is welcome — and especially so as host carnival broadcaster.
But at the risk of being accused of shooting Bambi with a misogynist’s bullet,  I believe it should “tweak” Francesca Cumani’s role in terms of tipping on every race in every Channel 7 presentation. 
Her racing and horse background is unique and informative. She presents extremely well. This is not a basis, however, to comprehensively know the form and therefore to be tipping in an ongoing role. 
Race tipping is an uncertain task at best. Strategic and analytical thinking across countless variables are required. Deane Lester-standard genius is rare. 
Cumani’s background lends itself more to mounting-yard assessments on bloodlines and physical presentation. Her unique insights and background are not suited to being another “tipping panellist”.
A tweak for Francesca may open a role for another female tipster (Kathryn Read, Lisa Eskander, Kristen Manning or other “like mind”?) with the depth of form knowledge and the mindset for its application.

Justin O'Halloran
Clifton Hill (Vic)
Today's Racing
Saturday 30 March
Sunday 31 March
Monday 1 April