Betting World Derby and Oaks open to all ages

Frodo Wrote:

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> Huh :S
>
> It's not the 1st of April yet, is it : I always
> thought Derby = 3 yr old male and Oaks = 3 yr old
> female - how can the races be 'open to all age
> groups' - they'd have to change the names then :S
> :S


Agreed!!(td) End of another tradition

I must agree, change the name of the races.Derby and Oaks are 3yo classics for staying horses. Many very good horses have won these races, but we predominantly breed for speed these days hence some moderate 3yo's in these races,but always full fields.Another point, last running at Clairwood so why not leave until the whole programme is changed next year.

I wonder if the Graded Races committee will let them keep the grading of the race.
I would think it'll have to become non-black type until it has been run a few times and can be re-graded.
Anyone know where the Graded Races committee (belongs to the NHA) houses its Rules?
I'm in the dark.
But curious.

Maybe I am missing something but the "reducing of MR Ings" which allows off form 6 yr olds , with reduced MR, to prevent up and coming handicappers from wins and stakes, we now have a situation whereby older champions could prevent 3 yr olds an opportunity of a classic win.
On one hand we are trying to show the world that our horses are "world class" and yet our programming seems determined to lower the bar!

We also have a Gr2 as first leg of the triple crown (td) that's insulting....:

elmer Wrote:

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> Who have been the winners of these 2 races in the
> past 5 years?
> I cant remember but maybe GC are hoping to improve
> the chances of the KZN trainers.
> Just remeber that stupid here still thinks of C
> Laird.Tarry and De Kock as visitors

The race was never designed to test the memory, just 3 yr olds over a classic distance-memorable or not , the record remains!

I think the Yorkshire Oaks is for 3 AND 4-yo's though it still doesn't make it right.