Layers Pay Out On Hanagan

I see that Ladbrokes have already paid out on Paul Hanagan to be the champion flat jockey for this year.  Apparently they have paid out about £150,000, although maybe they will be wishing they hadn't after his nearest rival Richard Hughes rode a treble to reduce the gap to seven.  I suppose Hughes' upcoming seven day suspension and his trip to ride in the Breeders' Cup in America on the last two days of the season have something to do with their decision to pay out early.  I wonder what would happen if there was only a couple of winners in it with a few days to go - would Richard cancel his trip to the States to challenge for the title?  I was also puzzled as to what Ladbrokes get out of paying punters early?...publicity I suppose.

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Martin Lane looks to have a good chance of becoming the first apprentice jockey since Ryan Moore to land the Cesarewitch aboard Oceans Minstrel.  I can still see Ryan striking the front aboard our Miss Fara in 2002 - I can't believe that was eight years ago, doesn't time fly?!

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Many happy returns to Sir Cliff Richard.  The legendary crooner is 70 years old today - there must be something in staying single because Cliff certainly doesn't look his age.  I have been married three times and it certainly shows - it must be that I need a summer holiday!

Chester - Look what married
      life has done to me!