Another one:

This time looking at those runners who have scored a first, a second and a third in its last six starts. A spread of places. Finished in all three places (as opposed to say all seconds and firsts).

The theory is that such a horse has proven its ability to be in the money on a consistent basis. Its a reliability factor.

Looking at a sample of 148 races, metro, 1200m or more, no hurdles, no 2yo:

1904 runners.
Of these only 156 had a 1, 2 and 3 in its last six starts.
Of these, 76 were placegetters.

Or, about 8% of all runners qualified. About 50% of those 8% placed.

In practical terms, seek out those runners with a 1, 2 and a 3. Half of 'em will be placegetters. So what? you say.

Stay tuned for more Hermes' useless placegetter stats....