Global Horseracing News Round Up - 27 May 2022
The launch of Racing240 means South African horseracing fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to the best local and overseas Grade 1 races, magazine shows and more. Watch the action at home, work or on the move on DStv Channel 240 or by streaming it via?www.4Racing.tv. Complementing the horseracing happenings you’ll see online or via satellite is this weekly round-up of the latest racing news from around the globe.
Sawbuck Wows at Ireland’s Punchestown
BBC Sport reported on 24 May that Sawbuck became the longest-priced winner in the history of jump racing with victory at odds of 300-1. Ridden by Charlie O'Dwyer for his trainer father Conor. The rank outsider won the opening maiden hurdle at Irish track Punchestown earlier this month. The BBC noted that his prospects in the Racing Post newspaper had been summarised thus: "Modest sort with no realistic chance."
Council Terminates Mauritius Turf Club Lease
Closer to home, the Sporting Post on 22 May revealed more details around the ongoing saga relating to the Mauritius Turf Club. The prospects of a firm start to the new racing season remain uncertain after the City of Port Louis, according to the Post, “issued a notice terminating the lease of the MTC’s use of the state-owned land on which the Champ de Mars racecourse is situated.” The MTC has now submitted all documents requested by the authorities in order to be re-allocated a racing licence.
Lester Piggott Hospitalised in Switzerland
Former champion jockey Lester Piggott, 86, is in hospital in Switzerland. That’s according to RacingTV on 23 May which reported that both the son and daughter of the British Champions Series Hall of Fame inductee had visited him. According to a Sky News Sport report quoted by RacingTV: “He’s battling a bit, but he’s a tough man. Hopefully he’ll pull through and get home as soon as possible”. Piggott was admitted to intensive care in 2007 due to a heart problem.
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Europe Can’t Get Enough of Horseracing
European news agency Novinite lifts the lid on the three biggest horseracing countries on that continent. The Sofia-based news provider suggests that the love of horse racing does not exist universally and lists the top three horse-crazy EU nations as the UK (€6.08 billion wagered annually), France (€4.36 billion wagered) and Italy (€1.72 billion wagered). Finally, it should be noted that the UK’s Grand National is watched by a staggering 600 million people around the world.
Drug Free Racing Gains Made in US
Across the pond; Spectrum News1 in Louisville, Kentucky, reported earlier this month that Drug Free Sport International will begin policing US horse racing. The organisation already oversees drug testing for the NFL, NBA, men's and women's pro golf in the States and more. The Kansas City-based company will set up the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit following Medina Spirit testing positive for a banned substance following the 2021 Kentucky Derby.
ENDS