John Burke

Morning all,

The sun was out on Wednesday and I took a nice bracing walk across Ilkley Moor. I have to say it’s done me the world of good. Don’t get me wrong I felt tired. I suppose a combination of the virus and doing very little exercise over the last couple of weeks meant the body wasn’t as prepared for the shock to the system. Still, I feel better for it.

Well, the NHS Covid passes are in now in place for large sporting events. They were in operation at Newbury yesterday. The Racing Post seemed to indicate things went smoothly. Mind you, I’ve seen reports that suggest that crowds weren’t very big. It will be interesting to see how it impacts on attendances at Ascot on Friday & Saturday and of course Haydock on Saturday. I’m hoping to get to Wetherby on Boxing Day. Provided of course the Omicron virus doesn’t put a stop to it. I fear the odds-on racing taking place behind closed doors must be shortening.

Inside today’s main piece. I take a quick look at couple more of Saturday’s big races, including the Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase at Haydock. Plus, there is a selection from Exeter.

Morning all,

The Robbie Dunne saga continues to hang over the sport like a bad smell. I listened to the Weighed-In Betfair Podcast and for me Tony Calvin, Kevin Blake and Vanessa Ryle pretty much nailed it on. It’s the best take you will hear on the subject by a country mile and very much worth a listen if you get a chance.

Morning all,

Inside today’s main piece I have three for the tracker. Plus, I have a selection from this afternoon’s meeting at Catterick. It's another short but hopefully sweet column.

Morning all,

In today’s main piece I’m looking at the four Cheltenham races on ITV on Friday. Plus, I have a selection from this afternoon’s meeting at Warwick.