Front Runners and Whip Rules

[sweetybt]

Do you think front runners are winning more often now due to the whip rules?

[rubysglory]

Thought this article might be of interest to you sweetybt.

http://www.dailyracing.com.au/articles/ ... eat-horse/

rg

[sweetybt]

thanks.

There is a lot written about uncontested leads in the us, but I just wonder if late closers won't get "motivated" enough under the new rules.

Another front runner at Sandown wins

[rubysglory]

I just wonder if late closers won't get "motivated" enough under the new rules.

Good point sweetybt. Although I have no data to support one way or the other it is my observation that there has been little or no variation from the norm. In much the same way as the whip may no longer be used to 'encourage' back markers to find that little bit extra in the run to the post, the same is true for front runners, effectively cancelling out any net effect. If anything, I think we may see a more vigourous style of hand and heels rding develop to compensate for loss of whip use.

rg

[Totty2457]

Correct Rubys,

Sweety,

Just to clarify Rubys uncertainty, I have data for prominent & hold up horses and the strike rates in the period 1st Oct - 30th Nov is exactly the same, exactly - to two decimal points, as the usual strike rate for these type of runners.

I imagine it is mostly peoples perception that leads them to believe the whip rules have affected the results on the running styles. I assure you, this is most definitely not the case.

Hope this helps clarify.

[payuppal]

In another forum, someone who specialises in trading distances suggests that the real effect is not on the first two, but for 3rd and downwards.

Jocks knowing they cannot win and near their quota are letting 3rd go and the distances between 2nd and 3rd have increased.