October
September58 questions
It was interesting to hear the comments of trainer Bryce Stanaway at a recent Bendigo meeting regarding the differences between a benchmark 58 and a “genuine” 58.
There seems to be an argument growing that legitimate 0-58 horses are getting lesser opportunities as a higher rating horse can compete and often win these benchmark races with a smart claim.
I can see why the benchmark system is preferred because it is a more attractive prospect for punters given the likelihood of bigger fields and more trustworthy/reliable formlines.
The 0-58 races still exist but opportunities are few and far between.
Solutions could be a) create a more even balance of scheduling of 0-58 and benchmark 58 races or b) make benchmark 58 races non-claiming events, giving the “better” horses less advantage.
Then again, the latter solution would reduce opportunities for our highly promising apprentice jockeys. An interesting dilemma.
Burwood (Vic)