Just how effective are first time blinkers?

A very good read. Well done.

Will be interesting to see what impact, if any, they have on What a Friend in the Gold Cup. A decent jockey would be of much greater benefit to the hoss than first time out blinkers imo.

good blog SC, will keep an eye on it

Thanks gents, another thread coming up soon

Mark Johnston has a similarly impressive record in Class 3 handicaps +, La Rayb @ 25/1 and Green Lightning @ 12/1 spring to mind, Al Farahidi was also second @ 33/1 last year. Also pay close attention to the very rare use of a sheepskin noseband or cheekpieces, only two examples in the last 3 years, both won, Drumfire at Goodwood and Yorgunnabelucky at Yarmouth.

Great stat Intangible!

horses have a better record 2nd time in blinkers contrary to popular
belief according to a study done by nick mordin.
i have been looking out for that and he could be right.

I finally decided to wear them after much dithering. I haven't looked back since.

The Lay preacher is correct, blinkers first time can make horses run too free.