MAAT weights review and change

The Maiden As At (MAAT) race handicap conditions came under scrutiny in October when 4-race winner Lux Libertas was receiving weight from a 1-race winner Cleat. This was a highly inequitable race set-up and a race that became a turn-off for many punters with a $1.30 favourite, and also for the owners of 6 runners electing not to run.

The MAAT weight conditions were changed in 2023 to use SWP penalties. Previously, MAAT rules were1kg per win, with a maximum penalty of 3kgs.

A review of MAAT race results suggested that race-winners are advantaged significantly -

81% of winners against 47% of starters. Thus, an increase in the win penalty from 1kg from 1.5kg has been enacted. More equitable race weight conditions should encourage greater participation and an appealing contest.

A change in Standard Regulations will have the following weight scale for MAAT races, with immediate effect:

Maidens 57kg (F&M 55kg).

1.5kg penalty per win.

Standard 3yo allowances also apply.

 

R60 and low-rating R65 winners

R60 grade and low-rating R65 grade winners will at times appear to have unusually high and incongruent re-ratings. For example, Rochmie Ray received 6 points for a 2.0L industry meeting win at Pukekohe and Fairshare received 6 points for ½ head win at Cambridge.

For background, the minimum maiden winner re-rating is 61. So, for equality any low-rating winner will be treated the same as a maiden winner - moving to a minimum rating of 61. And noting maidens have competed in and won R60 races.

This process was endorsed by the handicapping review committee. R60 is a relatively new grade and remains a work in progress.