A ratings-based model will be a key element of a move to reinvigorate an Australian Pattern system that is set for its first major restructure in more than a decade.
Racing Australia confirmed on Friday it will adopt new protocols under the banner of “Australian Black Type Guidelines”, following what it said was unanimous approval from its board.
Without specific details, Racing Australia says an Australian Classifications Committee (ACC) will assess individual thoroughbred ratings to form base race figures.
The $20 million Everest in Sydney and the All-Star Mile in Melbourne have been granted Group 1 status based on a rating of 115 achieved over the past three editions of the races.
The ACC will comprise representatives of every principal racing authority (PRA), who will most likely be the chief handicappers from each organisation.
$20 million Everest in Sydney and the All-Star Mile in Melbourne have been granted Group 1 status
They are expected to meet fortnightly to analyse horse ratings, and PRA representatives will review the data before making submissions to the Racing Australia board.
Aside from the Everest, a further 12 races during the Sydney spring carnival have figured in upgrades.
This has led to speculation that a raft of upgrades across Australia’s racing jurisdictions is imminent in the most significant alteration to The Pattern in 11 years.
As Australia adopted the Asian Pattern Guidelines 2013, 41 races across the nation were given added importance.
And while a host of upgrades will be considered, it is almost certain some races will no longer enjoy black-type status if the guidelines are strictly applied.
"I'm not the person to definitively ask about what's going up and what's going down, and I'm not a handicapper,” Racing Australia chief executive Paul Eriksson told The Straight.
“(But) I'm sure there'll be upgrades and I'm sure there'll be downgrades. As to what they actually are, I don't know.
"It's all part of the process that is now happening."
Tim Rowe
A Racing Australia statement clarifies that if a race achieves and sustains the appropriate race rating over time to be classed as a Group or Listed race, it should be recognised as such.
Minimum ratings for races to achieve Group 2, Group 3 and Listed status have not been publicly released despite a suite of race upgrades such as the $2 million Invitation to Group 2 level during the Sydney spring carnival.
A ratings model will put almost 50 per cent of Australia’s Group 1 races in the spotlight for the wrong reason, based on international guidelines.
Bren O’Brien
However, Racing Australia says the new guidelines will consider a “unique racing environment while recognising Australia’s federated model for racing and regulation”.
They will also help combat “anti-competition elements identified in prior Pattern guidelines”.
A workable Pattern has been a priority for the Australian breeding industry, which admits it has been frustrated by Racing Australia’s inaction over the past five years.
