Update to ratings framework: one point rating deduction for 5th place

Last week the HRNZ Board approved an amendment into the recently introduced rating framework giving a one-point rating penalty reduction to horses placed 5th in non-Group and Listed races.

The new framework penalises all winners with a rating re-handicap of five points.  It acknowledges placegetters in:

• 2nd, 3rd and 4th place in non-Group and non-Listed races; and
• 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th place in Group and Listed races,

as being competitive at that rating level. 

All other runners will receive rating relief of one point deduction, so that each horse can return quickly to where it was last competitive. Ratings have been adjusted for horses that have placed 5th under the terms of the amendment since 30 June, with 62 horses re-rated.

The new rating system is the result of the work of the Utilisation Reference Group of 15 trainers and racing people established to explore ways to enhance the utilisation of the horses we breed. The focus is on horse utilisation and retention, i.e. allowing horses to regularly find racing opportunities where they can be competitive and thus extend their racing life.

HRNZ acknowledges it will take time for the system to bed in. It needs to be supported by new programming approaches therefore the outcomes are being monitored and reviewed. A review group will assist HRNZ to monitor the new system and its first report to the HRNZ board will be in November. 

The Official Notice also clarifies the regulations around penalty free races. Click here to view the Official Notice