Originally Posted by
mightymo
Brad
You have certianly hit on something that has been a big issue - handicapping. There is no doubt that some handicappers have tried to be innovative in recent times and should be complemented for this. However, this is still a very big issue and one which results in a huge amount of odds on favourites which is very bad for turnover.
As for the import fee and yearling sales, my experience suggests that the vast majority of people who buy going horses are not the same people buying at the yearling sales. Arguably three of the biggest buyers of kiwi imports are Gary Hall, Greg Bond and Dean Braun. In the last 5 years I dont think they would have bought 3 yearlings between them.
I cant speak for HRA and the various states, but I really dont believe that the intention or a likely unintentional consequence is a increase in yearling sale prices. On the other hand, I can certainly see a link to the ready to run concept which finally seems to be gaining traction in Aust.