Computers Are Taking Over
I remember when the word “computer” conjured up as many magical images as Narnia or Middle Earth subsequently. In the early days, my pardy and I saw an advertisement of a …
The Problem With American Democracy – A Few Perspectives
In the aftermath of the United States presidential elections of 2024, despite the person who won the contest, and despite the political party that has regained the ascendancy in the governance …
Issue # 195
Positive Developments
Two recent developments in horseracing and betting have the potential to produce positive results. The first is the introduction, at the racetrack, of what’s being marketed as ‘fixed odds betting”. It’s …
He Don’t Like Favourites
So my alter ego found himself in the Bernard Lodge area recently visiting the location of a longstanding legal dispute. There I met a Stud Farm Manager named Clifton McLeish who …
Pay Attention To The Track
The racing surface at Caymanas Park is in urgent need of attention. I don’t have to be at exercise gallops or touring stables every day (as was my routine years ago) …
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 …
“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 …