Good News For C4 Racing

I think that it is good news for everyone involved that Channel 4 Racing have the rights to all televised racing on terestrial television and what is more, Channel 4 landed another coup yesterday when they announced the excellent Clare Balding as their lead presenter from 2013.  The major drawback is that John Francome has said that he will not be continuing in his role with the show, which is a shame as John always said what he thought (and often said it with a wicked sense of humour).  The only other negative as far as I can tell is that they haven't yet said that McCririck will not be appearing!

Above: Clare Balding, who will be the lead presenter of Channel 4 Racing from 2013

I think that it is good news for everyone involved that Channel 4 Racing have the rights to all televised racing on terestrial television and what is more, Channel 4 landed another coup yesterday when they announced the excellent Clare Balding (pictured above) as their lead presenter from 2013.  The major drawback is that John Francome has said that he will not be continuing in his role with the show, which is a shame as John always said what he thought (and often said it with a wicked sense of humour).  The only other negative as far as I can tell is that they haven't yet said that McCririck will not be appearing!

***** 

Wayne Rooney recorded his first success as an owner yesterday evening at the eighth attempt when his Pippy came good in the seven furlong nursery at Wolverhampton.  His task was made slightly easier when forecast favourite Medicoe was withdrawn but they all count...well done to Wayne - I am sure that it will be the first of many.

*****

There was drama at Thirsk yesterday evening as racing was delayed by 35 minutes when a racegoer had to be airlifted to hospital having suffered a heart attack in the bar.  I knew there was a reason why I was teetotal - anyway, let's hope that the lady involved makes a speedy recovery.

*****

I can't believe that the new football season begins in the Premiership on Saturday.  It seems only a few weeks ago that I was celebrating my beloved Hammers returning to the top flight.  As far as I can tell, all we can look forward to is Manchester City and United extending their advantage over the remainder of the division although there is plenty more to look forward to if you are a West Ham fan!  I see that we are favourites to take over the magnificent Olympic Stadium from 2014 - such a facility would be a massive draw for supporters of the club and should certainly help to increase revenue.