Comprehensive handicapping review to get underway

A comprehensive review of Harness Racing New Zealand’s handicapping system is about to get underway, with the members of the Review Committee and the Terms of Reference now confirmed.

The HRNZ Board commissioned the review following feedback about the current system. The Harness Rating System Review Committee will identify the pros and cons of the present set up with the aim of finding “the fairest method of handicapping to ensure competitive racing throughout the country for all horses”.

The committee will be chaired by Rob Lawson and also feature North Island representative Jay Abernethy, Tony Thomas (Seddon Shields), Addington Raceway’s Darrin Williams (North of the Waitaki – Canterbury representative), and Trainers and Drivers’ Association representatives Regan Todd (Canterbury) and Nathan Williamson (South of Waitaki).

Others involved in the process include HRNZ handicappers Andrew Morris and Kevin Smith, leading administrators Karen Blanchard, Jason Broad and Brian Rabbitt, and HRNZ’s new Liaison Cameron Kirkwood.

“We need to find the pain points in the system and most importantly a potential solution to them,” says Lawson.

“Also, are we using the system to its potential, and, if not, how can we improve?”

The committee is keen to hear from licence-holders and others who feel they could add value to this review. They are encouraged to email Rob at rlawson728@gmail.com

It’s envisaged the review document will be completed, and presented to the HRNZ Board, by early to mid July.

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From Harness Racing New Zealand