BEST of the BETS

Just an interesting observation, it might not mean anything.

We know Brian Hughes and Richard Johnson are neck and neck in race for jockeys title, I wanted to see how they have done so far this year. Looking at their records individually since the start of 2020, neither has been profitable.

Hughes has 10 winners from 61 with LSP of -12.24
Johnson has 8 winners from 50 with LSP of -9.30

But the interesting bit is when they have been directly against each other in a race. There have been only 9 such races since start of year where both of them had a ride, Hughes won 4 of them, Johnson 2, and 3 races where neither of them won. Backing both of them in these races would have resulted in a combined LSP of +5.64. In 3 of the 9 races, they also had the forecast between them.

It could all just be a coincidence, or maybe there is extra motivation when they are racing against each other. I will see how this theory goes as there are 3 races at Newcastle today where both are riding.

In 12:55, it’s all newcomers and Hughes is on the favourite but Martin Keighley has sent Black Panther a long way (I believe it’s his first ever runner at Newcastle) and has Johnson booked to ride.

In 2:30, Clondaw Caitlin for Hughes looks a clear form pick.

3:00, tricky race and I don’t really fancy either of them.

Just had a very small double on Black Panther and Clondaw Caitlin for a bit of fun.