Hi there,
I'm McKay Smith, the operator of the new HorseTourneys.com and the previous Tournament Director for NHCQualify.com.
Re: the contest format, please know that the software we've developed is capable of running multiple formats, and we absolutely intend to experiment with alternative formats moving forward.
The initial stages of launch for any website, and in this case a contest one that is launching in the middle of a qualifying year, is critical. For better or for worse, the $2 W/P format has been the standard, accepted format for contests, and we felt that it would have been a mistake to go to market at the onset with a format that may be too unfamiliar with regular contest players. Better to build confidence at the onset and call audibles moving forward.
I understand and agree that there are alternative formats available that may better recognize handicapping skill, and as mentioned, we intend to bring those to bear shortly.
I hope that players will try the new site out on August 7, and you can email me directly at
support@horsetourneys.com with any questions or comments on the new operation. As mentioned, it is operated by Ellis Park, so contrary to some of the other contest efforts that have been attempted recently, players can play with trust and confidence at a site operated by an industry stakeholder.
Thanks and regards,
McKay Smith