If the reigning champ, a former champ and a future champ can’t be bothered to give their backing, why did they sign up in the first place?
You undeniably want racing’s biggest stars to grace the Racing League – these are the jockeys who have the ability to transcend the sport.
But if they don’t want to do their bit then their places in Team ThoroughBid, Team BullionVault and Team Talksport could have been taken by a jockey who isn’t as fortunate as them.
Whatever your stance on the Racing League, it’s introduction has freshened up a Flat calendar which can sometimes feel stale.
It’s a crying shame that some of the top riding talent appear disinterested – maybe if Covid restrictions that limit jocks to one meeting per day weren’t still in place things would be different.
Let’s hope they play a part in the Racing League going forward, because Murphy and Doyle in particular are the stars of the future. We are counting on them.
Leave off Levey
POOR jockey Sean Levey will have to watch York’s Ebor Festival from the sofa.
He failed this week to overturn a six-day ban for improper riding at Glorious Goodwood – one which seemed very harsh at the time.
His horse interfered with Hollie Doyle’s, and she gave evidence at the hearing in support of her colleague.
But the stubborn disciplinary panel dismissed his appeal – and even had a pop at Doyle for trying to defend Levey.
It’s not the first time a panel has been heavy-handed this year – Jason Watson and the Nottingham ‘non-trier’ debacle springs to mind.
Sometimes you can’t help but shake your head.
Magic Mollie
IF you aren’t already a fan of young jock Mollie Phillips, then I suggest you familiarise yourself with her pretty quickly.
She is the definition of a pocket rocket and has been making a name for herself up and down the country.
She has come from humble beginnings in Wales and is now one of the most promising apprentices around – her strike-rate is well over 20% this summer.
Speaking at Salisbury this week, she grinned: “I’m on top of the world right now – I feel like the last few months have been a dream.”
Follow her folks, she is worth every ounce of her 5lbs claim.
FREE BETS GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to SE. 18+. T&Cs apply. Begambleaware.org
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org
