Three Year Olds Still Developing
Super filly Atomica blotted her copybook in the Gold Cup despite being sent to post as the howling 2-5 favourite. Sigh. This only established how superficial public “analysis” of horseracing can …
Land reform must follow Hurricane Melissa
In 1838, slavery was abolished in the British West Indies. It was the end of an over 300-year policy, practice, and business of enslaving Africans to work on the sugar plantations on …
“What Condition Your Condition is In”
Last time out we spoke of the effects of different headgear on thoroughbreds. This time we offer a primer on how to assess a horse’s condition pre-race. Most people pay little …
Horses Are People Too
At the races, punters endure a barrage of declared and undeclared equipment changes often made to confuse us and mask larcenous intent. The only way to combat these mind-flaying attacks is …
Variety Is the Spice of Racing
Most Jamaicans who only know Caymanas Park ask me why I’m so interested in English racing. It wasn’t always that way. During my primary and secondary school years, I was a …
Whipping Up Interest In The Derby
Abuse of horseflesh in the name of sport and entertainment continues unabated at Caymanas Park. In Public Opinion’s issue of June 25, 2021 (Whipping up interest in the St. Leger), I …
Iconic Legacies Need Protecting
There’s much discussion at the track these days about purse increases. Maybe a little history would be illuminating for those of us with short memories or lives (so far). In 1989 …
We Have A Breathing Problem
Indigenous Jamaican language is nothing if not brilliantly colourful and descriptive. I’m sure many of us have come across someone temporarily (hopefully) short of breath who gasps “Mi cyan breed.” Well, …
Parallel Times And Speed Figures
Survivors of last issue’s boring mathematics lesson can now calculate your own Standard (Par) Times and daily Track Variants. Congratulations on your Masters Degree in Speed. Now what? It’s time for …
Track Variants De-Mystified
More than two years ago, I gave general advice (Public Opinion’s Birthday; Your Gift – Speed!) about how to assess speed. It’s time for more advanced study. “Oh my ears and …
The Davis Principle
One of the most confusing handicapping conundrums for many horse players comes when horses that spend time in restricted allowances venture into claiming company. If, as I’ve done, you’ve taken the …