Hunter Cup..Handicaps

Just for general discussion, it would appear over the years that the top line Grand Circuit performers are handicapped out of the Hunter Cup.

The margins in the other Grand Circuit races regularly will see the top 6 to 8 finishers within 15 metres of each other.

What should the current top liners get this year?

Here's the problem, based on M class, a big handicap is used but based on finishing margins the handicaps would be less and possibly make it a very competitive race with more top liners starting.

By way of example, I noticed Smoken Up was nominated for the Shepp Cup but was given 40 metres handicap.....result withdrawn

Thats the age old balancing act of handicap races Bailey whether the conditions are fixed or discretionary, the difficulty is in not gifting the better horses the race whilst trying to also attract them, similarly the connections of the lesser lights want to see a reasonable chance afforded to their charges if it is indeed to be a true handicap race.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danno

Thats the age old balancing act of handicap races Bailey whether the conditions are fixed or discretionary, the difficulty is in not gifting the better horses the race whilst trying to also attract them, similarly the connections of the lesser lights want to see a reasonable chance afforded to their charges if it is indeed to be a true handicap race.

Could not have put it better myself Dan.
Cheers