From the Callers Box – November

As many would know, this is a constant bug bear of mine.

Timing.

Are the times and sectionals just becoming a little farfetched?

Sure, I’m all for evolution and fully understand the breed is getting better, the sulkies and wheels are slimmer, and drivers are also becoming lighter and stronger to get the best from their chargers.

But sometimes, I can’t work it out or justify it.

An example comes from the opening night of the 2024 Summer Carnival, the Be Good Johnny Sprint field posted a first quarter of 26.9 seconds courtesy of noted speedsters Turn It Up and eventual winner Wasa Heat Seeker.

Three races later and zero change to weather conditions, the mares in the Queen of the Creek ran a first split of 25.8 seconds with Ideal In Dreams releasing Aardie B Miki who in turn, released Chynchilla who started from the second line.

That’s over a full second difference.

Wasa Heat Seeker posted a faster mile rate compared to Aardie B Miki who scored the mare’s feature.

After speaking with some of the drivers who competed in both races, they were of the belief it didn’t seem right.

The track at Albion Park recently underwent remedial works, this is now becoming a common practice, and rightly so!

So, here’s my question, shouldn’t the timing system be surveyed and recalibrated to make sure everything is in line every time work is undertaken?

Timing is paramount for punters (wagering), owners and breeders – the difference in just a second is potentially massive.

And this should happen across all tracks in the state – Albion Park, Redcliffe and Marburg.

Given we’re stats and data driven, timing needs to be pinpoint accurate.

Accuracy breeds confidence.

And punter confidence is key!

Until next time.