12/4/2002 edition

Be Wary of Racecalls

Race caller hype

While we're commenting on race callers today I suggest you be very wary when told a horse has performed poorly. It is not always correct. It is also very easy for that inaccurate comment in the heat of the race to affect your future judgement. It's often very rememberable.

Similarly race caller hype about a winning horse can easily affect your judgement in the future. The winners are often champions!

Here's an example from the Melbourne caller, Greg Miles at the end of the sixth race at Sandown, an Open Handicap over 1300 metres.

"Here comes Prince Benbara. He's flashing home Prince Benbara blowsing Roktzar on the line. Third probably Slipstream from Kapuna who also came from a hopeless place... Zodiac Star folded up."

Prince Benbara won by half a length. Was Roktzar that inferior? Hardly blowsed by Prince Benbara - only beaten by half a length.

Also, Zodiac Star did not fold. Zodiac Star led, set a very fast pace, never got any peace and finished fourth beaten by one and a half lengths. It was only over the last 30 metres that the swoopers really got him. It was a good run. The six year old has now had four runs in and will be primed to run a big race next start.

Kapuna who was hyped up in the call only finished a short half head in front of Zodiac Star.

Next pages
Money talks - plunge horses
Future winners at big odds
Betting packages

Back Tote Longshots?

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