Changing Races and Pace Patterns

[wilderness]

There's plenty of controversy (mostly from the outside looking in) in how the races are contested in present day harness racing.
The Meadowlands tried some courtesy tuck rules (possibly still enforcing).
Pandy (although I cringe to mention it) been bantering for some years for the return to pre-modified sulkies.

In the old days drivers and trainers, always had a watch when training or contesting races.
When is the last time you saw a driver using a watch in race?

Years ago there were regular fines for slow quarters, even some suspensions.

These days the breed has developed (much faster), but he criteria for slow quarters has not evolved.
When is the last time you've seen a slow quarter fine?
Today, many drivers grab the lead and instantly back their horse down.

IMO the Judges should be allowed some discretion, despite the moaning of the general public and the racing colony itself?
There are many, many races at most Pari-Mutuel tracks where a 2nd or 3rd quarter 'slower than between 29 & 30' SHOULD be fined.
It would change the entire race scene and/or outcomes! And patterns reducing the winning favorites.

It would also challenge the drivers to develop a different skill set similar to the old style and/or old days.

Mind you, there'd be plenty of moaning from the horse colony, and the real question is whether the judges have the abilities to determine slow quarters in 2022?

[Boomer]

Passing Lane significantly changed pace and movement especially on 5/8 mile tracks. Now sitting third until past the 3/4 has become the new winning move. Sitting first second or third around the track is a must with passing lanes. Bow movement begins with horses sitting fourth or fifth other than the 1/4 mole sweep to the lead usually reserved for the favorites.


I have noticed something at the recent Pocono meet is anti George Nap hardball seems to be more prevalent making for interesting racing. I guess some of these guys got sick of yielding the top to him every race.