Over the last few weeks I have taken note of hermes preference to backing horses in the outside barrier, and how better prices may be obtained by doing so.

I have taken heed of this and looked at how some of my current systems would perform using the outer barriers (not necessarily THE outer barrier).

I have a very limited amount of data to go back and check these figures beyond what I have, so if anybody can supply a few years worth, then that will be great.

Here goes...

1. Group or Listed Races
2. Won last start
3. Placed the start before .. ie..1,2,3
4. Racing within 15 days of last start
5. Distance change .. -150 to +150
6. Barrier position 10 or more

This will obviously rule out races of 9 or less.

My limited data shows a profit of over 300% for the win and 100% for the place. A larger sample would be more appropriate.

As I am typing this, there is a contender at Ascot in 35mins (Ascot Race 5#1 - Kentiara). This is a Listed race.

The outside barriers can be more profitable, and some of the good horses can overcome this. Our Maizcay was a superb example of this when he sprinted from the outside barriers to lead all the way in his races. Sunline was the same.

The lesser known horses obviously get pumped up a few dollars because they are initialy hanging out wide.

Thanks for thoughts hermes, most appreciated. I hope this proves profitable in the long term, and if it does, everyone here can benefit from it...

OM