I have always loved Arc weekend. I don’t get to Longchamp much these days, but I have been very lucky in the big race itself, going back to 1981 when I tipped 50/1 winner Gold River in my Warm Up … Read More »

I have not yet found any rhythm on the football but it will come. We had a few clean sweeps last season and it’s just a question of being patient. Bristol City are worrying their supporters with a poor start … Read More »

I was quite pleased with the way things worked out last week, although it was a pity George Bowen could not quite get past stable-companion Tatlisu in the Ayr Silver Cup. We have made the point several times that it’s … Read More »

I thought Novak Djokovic held a strong favourite’s chance against Roger Federer in the US Open Final and I hope you made it pay. Federer was in good form and the crowd was right behind him but the Serb is … Read More »

It has been another difficult week, though bets have been kept to a minimum. I came closer to catching another of Richard Fahey’s on the line when El Viento finished second at 10/1 at Ayr on Friday and the trainer … Read More »

There are a few days in the autumn racing programme which are essential viewing, and St Leger and Arc trials weekend must rank top of the list. Apart from the final Classic of the season there is also an informative … Read More »

I could probably have chosen a quieter weekend to spend a few days away, but I have a long-standing engagement in Verona on Saturday evening to celebrate Alex and my Ruby Wedding anniversary. I have, at last, come to a … Read More »

If someone had told me that defending champion Marin Cilic would take only three games against Novak Djokovic in their US Open semi-final, I’d have advised him to take more water with it. However, the Serb was in magnificent form … Read More »

The only high spot this week was Heartsong winning again at Brighton. She has been a good source of profit on the line, though the 6/4 after her 10/1 success at Chepstow was rather disappointing. The handicapper will make things … Read More »

Anyone who doubts the wondrous way nature works should sit back and ponder the seasons. Not just their variety and changeability, but their timing. For example I now find myself ready for autumn, just as in a couple of months … Read More »

I was quite pleased with the main selection last week, Shared Equity running well all the way to finish a good third in a very intricate Goodwood handicap. True, the handicapper knows all about him but I feel sure Jedd … Read More »

Walsall could hardly have made a better start in League One and, with Sheffield United taking the day off, the Saddlers could go clear at the top by beating Bury. There is invariably a banana skin, of course, and they … Read More »