A comment for the Handicapper

Wednesday 24 June our yard had two 3yo fillies running at Jägersro.

Reine De Vega, winner of last year’s Criterium in Norway, had her first ever race on dirt in a small field of three.

She led most of the way, was headed coming into the straight and eventually finished third – beaten by a length and a nose from the winner and runner-up.

Scandinavia’s handicapper chose to raise the winner from 77 to 82, while the runner-up was raised from 76 to 80.

Reine De Vega was lowered one kilo to 79.

On which background could this happen?

During the race, Reine De Vega was also hit from behind, which was afterwards reported to the race stewards. Furthermore, her jockey was unable to use his third and last stroke with the whip due to the winning jockey riding up close towards the line.

We are not in a position where the Handicapper’s judgement decides if we can run in the Swedish Derby or not, as Reine De Vega currently has enough points to earn her place.

Yet still I am amazed how Reine De Vega had to be lowered under yesterday’s circumstances.

Our other runner, Coucou Bella, won hands down by 7 lengths in a maiden race but stayed at her current mark of 70. For her, this was a test and a chance to raise her handicap before upcoming events, especially after the Handicappered lowered her by 2 kilos last time out at Bro Park.

Wido.

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