Lee Shows How To Whip Them Without Using Cane

May 11 2008 Joe Punter

I ALWAYS love the short trip from Punter Towers to Hamilton and last Sunday's start to their new season was no exception.

A big-up to the Lanarkshire track for their £250,000 revamp of the course that includes doubling the length of the Duke's Bar and adding a new parade ring marquee.

And it was superb to see Graham Lee, fully recovered from yet another injury nightmare, riding the winner of the mile handicap for jump jockeys on Kayleigh.

And for all those who say the whip is a must to get the most out of a horse I would recommend they watch a video of the race.

Irishman Lee powered home on Brian Ellison's charge without once resorting to the persuader. Another tradition at Hamilton's opening day is watching the 1000 Guineas live on the big screen.

And though it's fashionable to knock Richard Hughes it was X-certificate stuff as he contrived to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory on Nahoodh.

The lanky jock had a ton of horse under him but had to sit and suffer on the rails as he was continually denied a clear passage throughout the final furlong.

Nahoodh was beaten a length and a half into fifth. It was a dog of a ride and I would not trust Hughes with a penny of my dosh.

Six wins from 123 rides in British Group One races since 1996 says it all.

GOT a racing query? Write to Joe Punter, Sports Desk, Sunday Mail, Glasgow G3 8DA or you can email him at joepunter@sundaymail.co.uk