For races run from 1 April 2023 (entries close Monday 27 March), Flat horses that win on their second start will be eligible for a handicap rating to run in a Class 5 or 6 handicap race, subject to the Handicapper being prepared to allot a rating of 77 or lower.

The horse may then run in a Class 5 or 6 handicap in its next race, rather than being required to run in another novice or other weight-for-age race, providing its rating remains at the appropriate level at the time of entry.

Horses that have already fulfilled these criteria and currently do not have a published mark will have a rating allotted and published within the announcements section of the Racing Admin site by noon on Thursday 23 March.

This rule is being introduced on 12-month trial basis, following agreement by the industry’s Racing Group, having been proposed by the NTF. At present, horses are generally required to run in three Flat races before being eligible for a Handicap Rating, or in two races if having won first time out.

For any questions, please contact:

• Graeme Smith, Handicappers’ Team Leader: [email protected]
• Dominic Gardiner-Hill, Head of Handicapping: [email protected]