Freda

Yes, you're right, and I didn't imply blanket criticism of the many decent blokes and girls who work very hard. But I think a few more attendants, even, would help avoid some of the dramas.

Good stuff Thommo. Couldn't agree more re. starting crews being employed by NZTR instead of by clubs...where not only is there not centralized control or training, even payment and conditions vary. Quite apart from this latest awful result, there have been plenty of instances when plain common sense would have avoided a balls-up.....the tape start in the steeplechase at Wellington, for one - the recent ( completely unnecessary) escape of the mare She's Gallant at Riccarton for another....the list just goes on. Then we have the situation where the chief stipe makes arbitrary decisions about which horses can be delayed and/or have a man up.....jockeys pointing out that they are in the wrong gate and being told to shut up....jockeys calling for assistance and being told we're too busy deal with it yourself....oh dear , professional....no.

Vic racing still looks bloody healthy compared to what we have to endure... but there is no doubt that the recently introduced POCT in Sth Aust has had a bad effect all round. Queensland stakeholders went on strike when their govt tried to introduce one, and thankfully their actions got some modifications to the original proposal.

Yeah. Cost him the Gt Northern on Jack Frost.

Can't say I noticed the irons...but I watched the race thinking bloody hell, Stu, don't kill the old chap at the start of the season, I bet the horse slept well.

Spot on, Reefton. The matter, though, as far as Aus rugby is concerned, is the content of Israel's contract. It appears he has not fulfilled his obligations in that respect and I guess they have the right to ditch him as a result.

Only from a Sth Island perspective, Jess....which is, of course, of little use to a Nth Island-based owner/breeder given travelling costs involved . However, I have handled and observed stock by Pure Champion and they are lovely types, beautiful heads and outlook and nice temperaments. Don't appear to be two year olds but we down here are waiting with hope and anticipation..! On the slightly more proven side, White Robe's Ghibellines seems to be ticking the boxes, he's a beautiful horse himself too. Dealing with the Andertons is always a pleasure and they are very reasonable in their charges. A Nth Island based trainer friend of mine decided to retire his nice mare, which he had left in my care, and decided on the very reasonably-priced Gallant Guru as her consort. Shane Anderton picked her up in his truck from the races at Riccarton and took her south at no charge...that's service for you! Agistment charges were also very reasonable indeed.

13.9 mill - 14.0 mill - shared between 3 codes and sports PLUS a fund for reducing gambling harm.....not going to be much to get excited about. How much for galloping, 3 - 4 mill ? Dont wish to be ungrateful....but what the hell will that achieve? Just another taxpayer subsidy.

Unfortunately my Aquarian persona can see merit in everyone's comments and points of view ..

One of your better efforts, Tommy

...which might be open to debate.

Hopefully?

Applies as much to NZ society generally ....great words.

Something that Mardigras would probably be much in favour of.

And quicker.

He's back...and I for one am glad to see hi m holding the feds to account [ or trying to ] Interminable threads about the Princess, well, no......

Of course it is arse backwards....whether that was the actual intention or whether it just kinda happened would be anyone's guess.

Yes...but, like Brian, I have a real concern about the governance of NZTR. The RB, I feel, will be the main thrust of any reforms and our code heads show no signs of pulling their heads in.

You have no idea what transpired so I suggest you save your judgement about me to someone who gives a shit.

So have I...didn't send me into a decline either, but I don't know why you lot give him the attention he craves.

Hilarious....as nothing untoward happened to the horses...but could have been horrendous. Would have been worthy of Rowan Atkinson....

Good....sure beats reading about the boss of HQ.

Good to have your input, Laurie...I await the response with much interest.

Oi....Fred....not me...

Hope you are right.