THAT they were missed is an understatement. That they have returned is commendable.

For approximately one month, the popular and very necessary past performance lines usually found on the Caymanas Track Limited website went missing in action, presumed dead. The non-posting of the past performance denied many racing enthusiasts, including this racing contributor, the opportunity of quickly assessing their betting options following the issuing of Overnight programmes on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

This led to wild speculation that this essential tool of racing was withdrawn because of the financial state of the company. Pleas were made via this medium and of course elsewhere for a reconsideration of the decision to remove the posting. There was no public explanation for the reason or reasons why the past performance lines were not made available as punters, mainly those who find it difficult to attend the track because of geography or work, had difficulties following the offerings at the Park in the manner they are accustomed.

CTL is often criticised for taking decisions incompatible with the interest of racing and those who week after week throw their support behind the industry with their hard-earned cash. Yes, it was an inconsiderate decision not to post the past performance lines, but given the fact there has been a reconsideration, the hope is they will remain and that in the not too distant future these lines will become the precursor for the sale and distribution of our racing product to overseas markets. If the latter ever becomes reality then the online posting of past performances becomes a necessity.