None of us are shy of an opinion when it comes to racing I’m sure. The thing about UK horse racing pundits and commentators though is that they often both have a way with words and an opinion. They’re able to boom out and reel off horse names and positions in a fiercely competitive race, but that also often comes coupled with having an opinion on betting odds value within a race, of which rank outsider has a chance, of which odds-on favourite is ‘nailed on’ on or too short in the betting. It’s hard to have a love of racing, but lack a feeling or hope for how said race will pan out.
Former Channel 4 Racing pundit Jim McGrath for instance, was a serious gambler too, well known for his detailed form study and betting systems. He was an insightful presence on our screens. ITV Racing presenter and pundit Matt Chapman too, enjoys a flutter and so is well aligned with punters in that respect. Presenter, commentator and near legend of racing Derek Thompson (and Alan Partridge act-a-like!) is very well versed in UK horse racing odds and markets too, which shouldn’t be a surprise as he’s from a bookmaker family.
Last but certainly not least comes John McCririck, who went from being an on-course tic-tac man, to a TV personality (who can forget him in UK Big Brother!) and face of racing. He was very keyed into market moves, betting odds, bookie behaviour and was a fan of big priced UK horse winners. Much like his personality, he wasn’t a man of discipline, so likely wouldn’t have seen himself as a professional gambler, just someone out for the rush of a big win. He certainly enjoyed a bet and gave punters an enthusiastic view of what he thought of the days racing. What a character he was. Gone but not forgotten and big shoes to fill!
In terms of specific bets placed rather than overviews, the aforementioned former Channel 4 pundit Jim McGrath is known to have placed a wager on Cheltenham Gold Cup 1990 winner Norton’s Coin at 100-1, and Hugh Taylor declared bets such as Royal Diamond – 33/1 (ascot) and Roudoudou – 20/1 live on TV, so those are verifiable selections.
That’s what’s rather unique about the sport of kings. In the horse racing world, although there can be an elite aspect to it (especially the taking part in the sport aspect) it’s also a bit of a coming together. On course it’s very common to see household name jockeys, trainers and owners mingling with the general public, and in a way when there is this commentator and pundit link of bet suggestions and having a punt, it’s yet another connection between the betting public and those involved in the sport. You often don’t get that in other sports, where there is a detachment between fans and participants. A real community feel, and one we’re lucky to have!