As you give, so shall you receive.

One likes to think that there's truth in this biblical homily. Generosity "deserves" reciprocity of some sort, we instinctively feel.

Gurus preach the same thing - karma and all that.

Well, punters might not be saffron-robed seekers of spiritual truth but they feel they've been giving - keeping racing alive with their dosh turnover - but getting little in the way of return favours or tokens of appreciation.

But two betting innovations have been announced, specifically for the Durban July, that will gladden the heart of everyone who fancies a flutter. The tote will pay out on the first six placings in South Africa's premier race on July 2. Previously it was the first four.

Theoretically, on a pure lottery-odds basis, with 20 runners, it means you have a 30% chance of collecting on a bet, as opposed to 20% before. Slightly better odds than Powerball, eh?

It's to be hoped that this will encourage more people to have a go with a place bet, so swelling the pool, to everyone's benefit.

The operators aren't actually giving anything away in a spirit of largesse because it'll be the same pool dividend that's paid, but let's hope they do get some reward for some innovative marketing.

The second new bet is a tweak of the All To Come, with multi-leg wagers into the July from events from June 27 onwards. In other words, you can link horses at meetings during the week leading up to the July with your fancy in the big race.

With this week's announcement of the final field for the July excitement is building rapidly.

It's great news that Dougie Whyte, South Africa's superstar jockey in Hong Kong, will return to his hometown to partner Pierre Jourdan.

And the hot favourite, super filly Igugu, drew the fairly favourable stall No10 for the race.