BEST of the BETS

Sad news, but it's a sign of the times with internet forums largely dying out over time, although there are exceptions.

Most of those on here these days won't know me, but I owe my career at least partly to this forum. I first logged on in 2003 as a student, and marvelled at some of the tipping going on, LazyExcuse and Hippo being the obvious examples. Tankyman too, great for the shorter prices. I had always had an interest in data and statistics, and started tipping on the forum in 2004 (fairly sure Attraction in the 1,000 Guineas was the first tip I put up - beginner's luck!). I've been a tipster and analyst full time since 2008 having served a year or so in the trading room of a well known Irish bookmaker. There was so much to read and learn on the board at the time. I remember some lad tipping Mission Affirmed (won 33/1) at Southwell one day and couldn't believe it was possible to find winners at those odds. Lots of winners from LazyExcuse (the 2005 Gold Cup tricast at 1000/1), and incredibly high quality and interesting write ups. It isn't that long ago since Hippo's huge day at Goodwood - pure bananas, monstrous each-way accumulator. Some might remember a lad called Ziderhead from the old days? Spamming the forum with nonsense in the early days, some very funny run ins although it all seemed deadly serious at the time.

Mugz, you've been a constant for all those years - 20 years that I know of and perhaps more? Thanks for all that you've given to it, I always enjoyed being a member and reading the boards although I've contributed much less in recent times. If anyone decides to put together a new meeting place / information exchange / or keep in touch I'd be happy to be a part of it.

All the very best, to Mugz and all the members,

Dan.

I'd bet the sectionals would show a slow pace - Blessed was mad keen after a furlong. Still wasn't good enough but might have placed if ridden forward.

Well done Hippo.

Will love the Guineas trip.

All good Hippo, ticking over nicely. Great stuff this week at York, and the football's back too, favourite time of year.

I didn't comment on the thread last time, I didn't want to be a negative Nelly and jinx you Hippo... but the debut run was very impressive. I coudn't back it at the prices last time as it was an odd choice for the second start, and the spacing between races suggestive of a setback. Left it alone and rather "no comment" than go ruining your thread. At the time, I actually thought the run would be pipe opener for this very race, and that looks the case. I really like the jockey booking. With the stalls configuration as it is, they often go to fast making for the near rail, and if you look at yesterday, Spencer was wise to that and gave the one he was on a hold up ride - it's often the way to go with this set up. Space Traveller is the danger for me, I'll probably back the pair on the machine, but I do fancy yours and you've a nice price at 12's!. Wish you the best of luck with it!