Un Temps Returns To Fences

There are five meetings taking place this afternoon with jumps cards from Warwick, Kempton and Wetherby as well as two all-weather flat fixtures from Lingfield and Newcastle.  David has one runner today as dual Cheltenham Festival hero Un Temps Pour Tout (pictured above) makes his first start over fences since the second of those fabulous successes in March 2017, although he did have a run over hurdles back in November.  He contests the 3m5f handicap chase at 3.00pm and carries top weight of 11-12.  He would have to be at his very best to win this from a mark which is incredibly still 3lbs higher than when he won...the handicapper certainly hasn't taken any chances with him.  He is a 14/1 chance today and would have each way claims under Tom Scudamore.  Tom has picked up five rides at the meeting, whilst David Noonan heads up to Wetherby where he has just one ride...and the answer to your question is no!

I see that trainer George Baker was wearing one red sock and one pale blue sock as he saddled the morning gamble Barritus in the novices' contest at Lingfield.  He said that it was not a signal to the bookmakers, joking "We gave that sort of thing up a long time ago!"  I wonder what the funniest signal ever given to people outside of the ring has ever been?  One legendary racing character (no names) told me and Martin some amazing stories from years ago...they will all be in my book one day!

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My beloved West Ham take on Arsenal at 12.30pm on Sky Sports and you can back the mighty Hammers at 13/5...as you know, I am a fool as far as West Ham are concerned.  I will also be backing Burnley at 13/10, Cardiff at 13/10 and Leicester at evens - that will keep me interested whilst I switch the television channels back and forwards.

It was sad to see Andy Murray give his tearful press conference yesterday.  It looks as though this is going to be the end of a fabulous career.  Don't feel too sad for him though, I think he will be okay for money.  According to the Sunday Times rich list, he is worth £83 million.  He will probably end up as a pundit on the television.  He has been our best tennis player by miles.  Mind you, we have not had any others since Fred Perry.

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What is easier to give than receive?  Criticism!  Have a great weekend...

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