Moaning Bookies On Loser This Time

Jun 8 2008 Joepunter

THE howls of anguish from top British bookies about the late Uturn from Jim Bolger over the participation of yesterday's Derby hero New Approach in the Epsom Blue Riband smacked of sheer hypocrisy.

"He's treating punters with contempt" the layers wailed loudly in anguish.

Conveniently forgetting the colt had been ante-post favourite all winter and when Bolger said two months ago the race was not on his radar they would trouser a a hefty chunk of cash.

Contrast such self-seeking outrage with the generosity of Irish bookies who at least threw backers a lifeline.

Paddy Power gave a 20 per cent bonus on any winning ante post bets placed after Bolger hoodwinked us by saying on April 21 New Approach would be aimed at the Irish Derby.

A lesson to Hills, Ladbrokes, Coral and the rest of the Brit gang in how not to treat your clients like numpties.

I WARMED to Seb Sanders after his first Classic triumph when storming to victory on 33-1 outsider Look Here in Friday's Oaks. The last time I saw such an explosion of ecstasy waswhen Mrs P opened her box of hand-crafted Belgian chocs last Christmas!

And I loved Seb admitting he had cocked it up when Look Here but could only finish second in her previous race - the Oaks trial at Lingfield.

The wee man has grafted all over the UK and if anyone deserves his moment in the sun it is surely him.

GOT a racing query? Write to Joe Punter, Sports Desk, Sunday Mail, 1 Central Quay, Glasgow G3 8DA or email joepunter@sundaymail.co.uk