A significant gamble was landed in the final race at Uttoxeter when the Evan Williams-trained Owl Of Athens scored commandingly as the 85-40 favourite having been available at 80-1 in the morning.
The six-year-old, who was a general 66-1 shot when betting opened on the race on Friday night, had been beaten 277 lengths in seven previous starts, but got off the mark in the 2m4f handicap hurdle when coming home eight lengths clear of Ghasham under Conor Ring.
Williams said: "It’ll be very interesting to know the ins and outs of it all. One of the owners had £20 each-way, so if that’s what people consider a gamble these days then the game is knackered. Lucky Lucky Tony Tony Henderson "He handled the ground and he jumped for the first time in his life. It wasn’t pretty but he kept plugging away. We hoped it would be hard work and it was. It enabled him to pop away and jump better.”
Williams added: "A lot of hard work goes into any race, so we’re always delighted with any winner no matter where or when."
The trainer was interviewed by the stewards after the race about the apparent improvement in form and his comments were forwarded to the BHA's head office, while Owl Of Athens was routine tested.
What's the point in routine testing? Unless they loaded the horse with 3kg of speed or cocaine ffs. This run will be swept under the carpet unless the next one next week.
What's the point in routine testing? Unless they loaded the horse with 3kg of speed or cocaine ffs. This run will be swept under the carpet unless the next one next week.