Merit Rating Appeal

An independent panel constituted in terms of Clauses 20.3 and 21.3 of the Constitution and consisting of Messrs K Miedema, G Hawkins and A Maharaj was convened on 26 March 2026 to consider a Merit Rating Appeal lodged by Trainers Mr M de Kock, Ms C Dawson and Mr S Tarry against the merit ratings (MRs) of SPLITTHEEIGHTS, ONE EYE ON VEGAS, TRUST and GRAND EMPIRE, respectively, following their performances in RACE 7, HKJC WORLD POOL SA CLASSIC on 7 March 2026, at Turffontein Racecourse.

The Panel found that the Official Handicapper’s use of TRUST as a line-horse at MR 119 was inappropriate, as his MR had previously been reduced to 107 following an earlier appeal. The Panel was of the view that TRUST was not a suitable line-horse in the Classic and instead selected ONE EYE ON VEGAS as the most appropriate line-horse, retaining his merit rating of 106 for purposes of its analysis. 

Using ONE EYE ON VEGAS at an MR of 106 as the line-horse, the Panel recalculated the relative performance levels of the runners in the race. On this basis, the Panel determined that the appropriate merit ratings arising from the race are as follows: 

• GRAND EMPIRE: 111
• TRUST: 110
• SPLITTHEEIGHTS: 107
• RADIO STAR: 102  

In the case of JAN VAN GOYEN, while the recalibration produces a figure of 102, the Panel is satisfied that this does not warrant an adjustment to his official merit rating, as he performed below his established level in this instance. 

In accordance with the Rules, the Official Handicapper is to give effect to the Panel’s findings and make the necessary adjustments to the official merit ratings of the relevant horses.

The Appeal was accordingly upheld, and the deposit fees are to be refunded to the Trainers.

Michael Shackleton

Legal Executive