I have been advocating a reduction in the number of race meetings for some time now. As chance would have it circumstances have forced the BHA to consider reducing the number of meeting in 2011 by 250. This will mean 1240 meetings over the year which is an average of 3 or 4 meetings a day.
What has brought this about is the reduction in the income from the Betting Levy. A drop of £15 million means the BHA can no longer fund the 250 fixtures that it has been supporting. Whilst I am still in favour of a fixture reduction it is a pity that Kempton and Foss Las have to be the two courses that will bear the brunt of the cuts, Kempton possibly losing up to 72 meetings including the popular Twilight Evening Meetings. The final decision will be made at the BHA meeting in a fortnight’s time put short of a sudden influx of cash it looks a done deal.
The card at Perth will have a big Irish presence today, there are 24 horse from over the Irish Sea due to run today. In recent years Perth has become a happy hunting ground for Irish trainers One trainer who does particularly will is Gordon Elliott who has Riverscape in the 2.20 with Paul Carberry riding. The favourite in the race Beidh Tine Anseo who is trying for a four timer was due to run yesterday but was withdrawn because of the going. Conditions seem the same today so whether it will actually run or not is open to question.
There were no Dee Dee Lays yesterday but there are 4 today.
Which can be viewed at www.premierbettingclub.com
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