Never really heard of a grand circuit race in any sport where the quality of place getters diminishes the value. What is the value then and how is that measured? The winner still gets the prizemoney, the crowds still turn up and betting ring is full, what else is there?
My original point was to compare the Fremantle cup to the SA pacing cup and the field in the SA pacing was weak but this doesn't always have to be the case-The three non "grand circuit"states are also isolated from Sydney and Melbourne , this may be one feeble reason being used i.e distance but I doubt it. But not having all states involved in the "grand circuit" at least for a few more years is a bit ridiculous.