As you've probably seen, the league is open for business. In order to participate you will need to create an account then upload your .hrs files to the website using the upload button on the main page. In the top right hand corner you will see UKRA/USRA/NHC tabs, click on those to go to your respective stables for each.
This is probably a good time to mention that all uploaded horses will be analysed for evidence of cheating, manipulation etc. Horses from cracked games are obvious and ineligible for racing.
UKRA - you have probably seen the schedule amendments. Plan your races carefully, 3 runs are required for a handicap mark. To begin with there will be no UK handicapper. The games handicapping system is not perfect but it is based on the game's mechanics, I am hoping that by having three runs little errors will be ironed out. Depending on how this goes, I may bring a handicapper in.
USRA - schedule remains the same. You do not require 3 runs to compete in a handicap, if you are the type of player that wants a more immediate game, this is for you. Due to the draw effect in USRA it's often easier to pick up a win, even if you haven't got the best horse. For new starters, it's definitely worth uploading a few here. There will be a handicapper but it won't be massively hands on until required.
NHC - schedule amendments have gone through although I may change the balance of handicaps through the season depending on how many horses are uploaded at different distances. I will of course keep you posted. Paul "The Legend" Moores will be bringing back the extreme distance championships later on in the season
A few other points:
Horse names: please keep them family friendly. I don't think any children play this but even then they are probably the only people who'd find a swear word amusing.
Bookmakers/Commentators: I will be getting in touch with those who have done this in the past and I've had interest already from others. If you are interested give me a shout, soplpresident@gmail.com as it's always good to get new people on board.
General banter: There is a good atmosphere at the moment. I know when my horses are kicking your butt you're going to be annoyed but don't be a little girl, man up and face me on the track.
As there are fewer horses in the stables this year I hope everyone will post a stable tour next week giving us the rundown on their stable and a chance for the punters to nibble at some early prices.
There may be a few technical issues at the start but we'll get them sorted asap, email me to let me know about them rather than clog up the board.
Good luck! Post here if you have any questions about the upload/nomination process.
Could not put it any better myself!