Freedman says change of tactics rule hinders trainers

[Wandering Eyes]

Richard Freedman has taken aim at the rule which states trainers must notify stewards of any tactics change.

Richard Freedman has ridiculed the rules which say trainers must declare a change of tactics prior to a race.

While racing authorities are clearly aiming to stamp out any untoward practices, Freedman says the rules, notably Rule AR 135A are restrictive and hinder a trainer’s ability to do their job.

The rule states that when a jockey is given an instruction which differs from when it was last ridden, they must notify stewards.

Freedman, the youngest of the Freedman brothers, compared the situation to a football team declaring their tactics ahead of a match.

“I can imagine ringing up Wayne Bennett and saying ‘listen Wayne let everybody know what your tactics are tomorrow’. I know what you would get,” he said

Freedman, in an exchange with Sky Racing hosts, said part of punting was the chance factor and punters understood this.

“That’s part of the competition to come up with tactics to defeat your opponent — why would you then divulge it to them so they can readjust their tactics,” he said.

“It makes no sense to me.

“I think the motive behind it was probably quite noble, they thought punters would really like to know about these change of tactics with horses so they could have more confidence betting.”

Freedman again pointed to the ever-growing sports betting industry, which has continued to flourish, despite punters often being left in the dark about team selection and tactics.

“But it doesn’t stop punters betting on sports,” he said.

“I just think the putners will bet regardless — I don’t think they are that worried about it.”

Freedman said the bulk of everyday punters would have no idea about any change of tactics in horse racing.

“It’s just another superfluous rule,” he said.

“I doubt hey will come out and rescind this rule, but at the very least stop policing it.”

Richard, who trained for over 20 years in partnership with his brothers Lee, Anthony and Michael, winning five Melbourne Cups, is now training partnership with his son Will, out of Rosehill.

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