Beach looks Treasure of a bet in William Hill’s Ballydoyle Derby
Hats off to the odds compilers at William Hill for coming up with some fantastic novelty markets on this afternoon’s Investec Derby.
Normally, the racing trading teams at the majority of bookmakers use occasions like these to offer odds on the ridiculous, but Hills’ Kate Miller has come up with a sensible list with some potential beauties.
First up, I’m a fan of Treasure Beach and think he is over-priced at 9/1 to be the first Aidan O’Brien-trained horse home. Yes, Recital (evens) is the most likely of his quartet to be first back in the showers, but if there are any chinks in his fragile armour, I expect Treasure Beach to take advantage.
I’m also keen on backing Castlemorris King to be beaten by more than 75 lengths at 13/8 – he was nearly beaten that far at Warwick last time! Another hot day is forecast and a lightning pace will see them strung out like the washing.
Recital looks terrific value at evens to beat Pour Moi in a straight match bet, while Seville (4/6) should comfortably see off Native Khan.
Looking at the more unusual ones and it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if the Epsom crowd suddenly burst into a rendition of the National Anthem as Her Majesty collects the trophy – I can think of plenty worse 7/2 shots.
I also think there is a very real chance of her giving a ‘thumbs-up’ as Carlton House crosses the line in front and wouldn’t put anyone off taking some of the 8/1 available. I’m pretty certain it’s more likely than a Tiger Woods/Tim Henman style fist pump, which incidentally is only two points bigger.