There must be some sub-clause of Murphy's Law that says when you start taking samples from old races you get spectacularly good results which then get worse from there. This ensures that people like myself waste countless nights chasing false hopes.

I had another idea (based on some statistical hunches): - selection is any horse rated exactly 3 points below the favourite on the QTAB. I thought it might follow a hole in the figures.

So I started a sample, turning first to Aug 21, 2001. Five qualifying races that day. First race - $1.40 placegetter. Ok. Second race - $34.50 winner. Third race - $8.10 winner. Fourth race - $4.20 winner. Fifth race - $5.80 winner!!! Amazing!

So I moved on and took a stab at 22nd July 2001 - Sixth race - $35.20 winner. Race seven - $2.90 placegetter. Race eight - $12.70 winner. Race nine - out!

No kidding. Amazing run.

Since then my figures have settled down considerably. I don't think it will pay in the long run.

Hermes