The Turf - Telling it as it is.

I'm far from American - but their often used phrase 'get real' could easily apply to Racing. I've read a host of well intentioned - but frankly misguided letters and columns about the shocking state of racing's finances. Constant attacks on the three major Bookmakers, Betfair, and even unfair criticism of the current leadership of the BHA are common place. Calls for a tote monopoly, vague ideas why majors should pay more, or an exchange driven utopia as possible solutions . Is it unfashionable to tell things as they really are? Is the truth simply unpalatable? The arrival of the elephant at the heart of British Racing, in the shape of the all-powerful and 'benevolent' Betfair and its subordinate Betdaq is the heart of the issue. Of course, I hear you say, that's obvious! We know exchanges equal nil profit. So why the complaints as to how much Hills or Ladbrokes pay to bet on British Racing? Is anyone really surprised at their cynical exodus to the rock? Trying ...

We are ahead in the battle against the layers going into the last two days of the Glorious Goodwood and it’s now time to turn the screw on our bookmaker friends. Friday’s Totesport Mile is traditionally one of the most open races at the meeting and this year’s field doesn’t disappoint. The main factor we must consider is the draw with most of the last few winners being drawn high and the good news is the runners that caught the eye earlier in the week have been drawn well and these are the ones to concentrate on. Mark Johnston excels at the meeting and has landed the ‘Mile’ on three occasions and saddles the favourite Sea Lord who won nicely at Newmarket last time out over this trip. The improving 3yo looks sure to go well and drawn 16 of 19 he is in the right place. The one I like best is Ralph Beckett's Oasis Dancer who looks to have been laid out for this and is berthed in highest of all in 19. Before his run in the Irish 2000 Guineas, where he ...

Few meetings in the calendar bring a smile to the face as much as the five days of outstanding racing that take place every year at the end of July on the Sussex Downs. Goodwood is indeed glorious for those few days and with Panama hat on head and a glass of champagne in hand all that we need to make the picnic taste that much better is a few winners. The feature of the week is the Group 1 Sussex Stakes which takes place on Wednesday over a mile. Last season’s winner Rip Van Winkle and this season’s best 3yo miler Canford Cliffs look set to fight this one out and although the O’Brien star looked awesome in beating Paco Boy twelve months ago he may find Hannon’s colt just too good. Aidan O'Brien's 4yo relished Goodwood’s undulations and produced possibly a career best in landing the prize but needs to overcome a very moderate effort in Royal Ascot’s Queen Anne to post a repeat. It would thought be dangerous to underestimate O'Brien and he will ...