The horse racing industry has long relied on classification systems to ensure fair competition and drive profitable wagering. However, the claiming system, a method that categorizes horses into over 20 artificial groups based on factors like age, sex, and earnings rather than genetic ability, has proven to be a significant failure. Unlike the handicap system, which assigns weights to horses based on past performances to equalize their chances, the claiming system lacks the ability to balance form and ability effectively. This has led to a decline in competitive wagering, as superior horses often dominate races, leaving little room for unpredictability.
Claiming system vs handicap system: Which is better for Jamaica’s horse racing?
