War of the racing carnivals

Autumn has declared war on Spring, and Spring is none too pleased. Although no declaration has been broadcast, this has occurred by stealth.

The Australian Turf Club has set the parameters, The Championships to be held in April 2014 marks the resurrection of Sydney racing. Not only does Sydney now have a world-class facility at the revamped Randwick, it now hosts a carnival destined to exceed any in Australia for both prize money and performance.

Cue the ubiquitous harbour shot and Eastern Suburbs fly-over, coupled with a contemporary instrumental version of The Stranglers’ Peaches.

The mood of carnival time and accompanying atmosphere are reinforced through the ATC’s glossy television advertisements – complete with stylised versions of racing characters sure to ruffle the feathers of those who drink at the front bar of the Doncaster Hotel.

Is it just me, or is it all unnecessary? After all, when you look at the two meetings that make up The Championships, not a great deal seems different.

There’s a Derby and the Doncaster, and the inevitable dose of rain that seems to always set the scene for Autumn in Sydney. Aside from the shifting of a few support races, and the re-badging of others, what else does the carnival provide other than an abundance of prize money?

There is a sense we are being schmoozed and cajoled into believing we are about to experience something never-before attempted by racing administrators. But Autumn and easter have long been the time for champions to be made, and administration has had little to do with that.

Fair to say a war can only be conducted when an opponent returns fire. The inevitable marketing plans are no doubt already being costed and loaded to retaliate with a gusto!

One hopes the race which stops the nation will not get lost in the carnage of battle.