The handicap weight over the limit is representative of the official handicappers opinion of the horses demonstrated performance. So the weight over the minimum from one race to another would show the variation in the class of the race, where that class is set down in a rule book... Your first line has me puzzeled a little, I start my cut off at 58kg.. Not saying that good horses can't perform with 58kg, but few regular horses can finish off a race when they have carried 58kg+ over 1200 mtrs or more...

One way of picking a good performer for the future is one that battles on or closes carrying 58+ in a 1200 - 1600 m race, when they get a lower weight they have a real advantage.

Apprentice allowances? I think they are justified to represent the lack of experience of the younger set, but I think its definately and advantage for riders like Tye Angland, Josh Parr etc.

Thanks Darky, I'll add this into my study..

Still searching... How did those punters know that the two runners were going to do so well? I've missed something, I think.

Kind Regards
OzPunter