thanks again for the responses.

My question about the formguide for harness meetings I'll file away as one of life's mysteries.

As for the impact of driver weight, everyone seems to agree that it doesn't matter either because of the 'momentum' theory or the fact that dragging something on wheels is so much easier that carrying weight on the back. I'll accept that, although I'm not convinced that weight isn't a factor at standing starts. Just another reason to leave such races alone.

What this has done though, is start me thinking about the importance of weight variations for the gallops. When A meets B 2kg.s better 'this time out', should I just ignore this? Can 2kg.s really make a difference to a fully fit half ton horse? Also along these lines, does the weight allowance for apprentice riders really compensate for their lack of experience?

bomber