I took a sample of 338 races, summers 04, 03, 02. Backing all three tips gets just below break even = $329.50. The value is clearly in the *second* tip which scored a 34% strike rate and was where most of the two-figure winners were. No value in the first tip and the third tip did poorly in this sample. The performance of the second tip was strong and consistent and quite noticeable. Some good winners in the third tip but not enough of them overall.

I'd be inclined to stick to the second tip or stagger the bet: 3 units on the second tip and 2 on the third, or something like that.

Hermes

PS: I ran into a couple of meetings where Ray Hickson had a shocker. Obviuously if your tipster has a bad day you go down with them.