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I’m not massively concerned which races SS goes for, but I would like to see him tested over fences. Even if it’s just for my own peace of mind.
There are only a limited number of races where it’s likely top quality opposition will turn up and the King George must be one of the most prestigious of those, so why would you not give it a go?
It would be interesting to see SS off the bridle and really racing, which to my eye anyway, has yet to happen over fences. I remember Azertyuiop finishing 3rd in the King George after travelling easily until 3 out and not staying (admittedly it wasn’t a deep race). SS is a better horse and should be able to coast to 2 out without stamina becoming an issue. If he has more stamina than such a fast 2m horse may imply, then winning is definitely possible.
The Frankel comparison is relevant, and with the (hopefully) longer career of NH horses it is more likely we will see SS over a range of distances. It’s not about only certain races or racecourses having any value, it is about seeking genuine competition and testing the limits of a horses ability. At the moment I don’t think there is a horse that could get SS off the bridle over 2m and such is his apparent raw ability it may not happen over 2 1/2m so lets see what happens over 3m.
I have done the Tote Swinger a few times. Not for a while though for the reasons you mention, very few others seem to like it. It seems to have little promotion now and probably didn’t get enough of a response when it was launched.
It could be quite a good bet if the frame of the race is right, but I suspect its easier to place or EW bet for most people. I’ve no idea how the divs stacked up, but presumably most people were disappointed or it would be more popular.
There’s a few potentially good Tote bets if you are selective, but the reality is that Tote dividends largely rely on the cash from the non-selective to build the pools.
The purpose of dress codes is be divisive and exclusive. The RFC and various previous racing marketing attempts have tried to engage with non-racing people in an inclusive way. It is symptomatic of the mess racing operates in that these are diametrically opposed messages.
Many of the posts on the subject indicate the depth of feeling. From my own viewpoint I try to avoid courses operating dress codes and feel strongly that people should be free to wear whatever they like. The attempt to "uphold standards" by a dress code is anachronistic and IMHO more concerned with keeping racing as a closed club and the power with the same old elite.
I’m not offended by going racing alongside a man dressed in a suit and tie, I even have friends who do so. There is no reason for anyone else to be offended by my jeans. Time to lighten up and be happy that there is such a variety of people who are racing fans.
Vive la Diffrence
