Pathway System Removal
The Pathway programming method introduced by Racing Queensland on January 1 will come to an end effective August 1, 2026.
The Pathway system was introduced to address industry frustrations of young and horses with limited wins having to race older more experienced and multiple winning horses.
The decision to end the Pathway programming comes as a result of continued industry feedback, programming challenges and data based information which shows the Pathway system was not achieving the desired results.
Below listed are some of the reasoning that has contributed to the removal of the Pathway system:
A) Participant confusion as to whether their horse was a Pathway horse.
B) Participant confusion as to which race to nominate for.
C) Participants preferring the option to choose a suitable race rather than having to go through their Pathway first.
D) The difficulty some horses found to win through the pathway.
E) The increase in the number of race codes in the program.
F) 50% of races this year with a $1:30 or less favourite were from Pathway races.
G) Noticeable increase in odds on favourites comparing year on year.
H) 93% of Pathway races did not reach the optimal field size.
I) Lower field size, short priced favourites and races lacking depth revealing poor wagering results and reduced revenue outcomes.
Solution
Effective August 1, 2026 Racing Queensland Handicappers intend to split races by lifetime wins where possible.
Therefore the priorities in splitting a race will change from the standard owner / trainer / driver split to a lifetime wins split.
Trainers when placing a horse should consider their options as stablemates are not guaranteed to be split.
As is currently the case RQ Handicappers will have discretion in choosing the best way to split a race however a lifetime wins split will be the first option considered.
Advantages include:
a) Improved chance of more like-for-like racing in grouping horses of similar National Rating and lifetime wins.
b) Simpler, easy to understand race program with fewer conditions and less race codes.
c) Better chance of improving field size, achieving more competitive racing and in turn the aim of improving turnover and wagering outcomes.
d) Trainers have the freedom to choose the race of their choice without having to go through a pathway first.
Race Programs for August will be available early July.
For queries please contact the Racing Queensland Harness Racing Office (07) 3869 9775 or harnesshandicapping@racingqueensland.com.au
