FOR some reason, as a young follower of all things racing, I had a particular liking for horses with white faces. Perhaps it was just that they were easier to see but chesnut horses did hold a particular attraction.

Around those times The Minstrel was the top two-year-old and many were still sceptical of his ability. After he was beaten as a three-year-old in the two Guineases, there were plenty who seemed to turn against him ahead of his Derby bid.