Chepstow & Stratford Runners

The stable has three runners this afternoon: two at Chepstow (Trop Fort and Shoegazer who will both be ridden by Tom Scudamore) and one at Stratford (Teshali with Conor O'Farrell in the saddle).  It looks to be a very competitive day's action including an exciting clash between Master Minded and Albertas Run in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree.  The big race of the day on the level is the Racing Post Trophy and the favourite is the Aidan O'Brien trained Camelot.  Camelot cost connections £500,000 so they will be hoping to recoup some of that price tag with this £131,567.20 prize - I wonder what they would do with the odd 20 pence?!

There is a distinct difference of opinion between bookmakers over Camelot.  Ladbrokes are ducking this one as they make him their even money favourite, while William Hill go a standout 7/4.  To my mind Ladbrokes have always been the best board markers, so I take that as a tip in itself - I can see him being even shorter for the Epsom Derby this afternoon!

*****

Following the amendment to the new whip rules, it would seem that most of the flat jockeys are a little happier (that is the official line at this time anyway), but there are still quite a few people including Rod Millman and Nicky Richards who think there will be a lot more horses pulled up in long distance races over obstacles when the ground gets really testing.  I am inclined to agree with them although it should certainly make for interesting viewing.

*****

I was reading the Post and there is an advertisement for all Sir Mark Prescott's horses that are going to the Newmarket Sales next week.  The write-ups are so good that I almost want to buy every one of them!  Not only is Sir Mark an excellent trainer, it would seem that he is a very good salesman too!