Realistically though, this opportunity to win only comes when you run to the peak of your ability and the handicapper is confident that you have been consistently performing in the majority of the races offered on the Tasmanian Carnival Series.
If you haven't raced with the TAL before, and especially if you haven't any authenticated Best Performances (BPs), then it sometimes takes a full season before the handicappers are confident enough to give you a competitive "mark". The system is set up to encourage runners to compete regularly, consistently and to the best of their ability
At the end of each season the handicappers review their field of marks and they may be adjusted from one season to the next as they look at each runners dedication and performances. Typically marks are "soft" at the start of the season moving progressively harder as we approach the "big Three" at Christmas time. Many runners also try to maintain their form for the Tasmanian Championships and/or the big Victorian carnival at Stawell. Be aware though that Victorian handicappers require that you run at at least one other Victorian carnival to receive a realistic mark at Stawell.
As the season approaches our handicappers will notify runners of their intentions for the coming year including guidelines for the Stewards assessing "inconsistent running".
Enjoy your season and train hard to achieve results!
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