Inquiry issues

There could be little surprise that the bans issued on Shantou Ed and Bobbie’s Diamond and their connections were overturned on appeal.

Stewards get plenty of criticism for not taking action but again it highlights the difficulty for a stewards’ panel when making a decision on the evidence of their eyes on the day.

“Information not available to the stewards on the day”, this time in the form of veterinary evidence, may always be brought into the equation at an appeal and there lies the dilemma.

Just a thought

On the same subject, I wonder could we see a day when the Hugh McElvaney excuse could be used to explain a “non trier” investigation. I knew it was going to look as though I was guilty, I was just seeing if you would catch me out.

Attitude problems

The great British hope for the Champion Hurdle, Peace And Co, did not find favour in this column last year although he ultimately had the last laugh in winning the Triumph Hurdle. However, little has changed regarding my opinion of his attitude and he flopped badly last Saturday. Until he proves more tractable he might be one to avoid as the four-year-olds have still to prove they are up to taking on the established star hurdlers.

In the same colours, the juvenile Sceau Royal continues to impress with his jumping and attitude and won again on Saturday. Christmas will bring out a few new Triumph Hurdle contenders but he is a most likeable horse.

Barber’s surprise hurdling hero

The Triumph Hurdle looks an interesting race already with the two small stable stars Rashaan and Jer’s Girl having shown good form and holding high hopes. Willie Mullins’ Footpad is the current favourite at 12/1 ahead of the Christmas fixtures.

The first British-trained three-year-old to make a big impression is reportedly unlikely to be in the line-up according to his trainer. However, there was no mistaking Clan Des Obeaux’s potential when he won in a canter at Newbury on Wednesday, even if it was strange to see Paul Barber’s colours carried by a juvenile hurdler.

Dark horse

When Willie Mullins speaks you are always hoping to pick up something on a horse that others might have missed. He made no secret of the fact that he expected Valseur Lido to improve and be more suited by a longer distance after his second in the John Durkan.

The news this week that he is likely to run in the King George might make him an interesting bet at 20/1 for a horse who might be a bit under the radar among his more hyped stablemates.

A Gold Cup

jockey quiz

With Irish runners dominating the betting for the Gold Cup and the likelihood of the two big Mullins owners being doubly represented, there could be a few very good spare rides about come March.

After Walsh and Geraghty, who is the best Cheltenham jockey around?

Ponder over the possibilities over a Christmas cup of tea and check the odds in our 2016 bets next week.

The Final Word

Your doctor knows best in the end. Good day, Jose.