Qld 2yo ballot conditions to be changed

Queensland trainers are confident there will be a change to the state’s controversial two-year-old race balloting system.

There has been criticism of the current system which is an all-in for all first starters.

It means on occasions horses which have trialled well and are high in early betting markets have been made emergencies and failed to get starts.

The highest profile example was eventual Magic Millions Classic winner Houtzen who almost missed having her first run because she was an emergency.

Houtzen, who had won a trial brilliantly, eventually got a start in the Doomben race and won by four lengths.

The Queensland branch of the Australian Trainers’ Association met with Racing Queensland officials this week and are confident the problem will be rectified to give preference to horses which have trialled well.

ATAQ secretary Cameron Partington said several other issues have been discussed including a three-year-old distance series with the winner exempt from the Queensland Derby or Queensland Oaks ballot.