Affordability checks have produced a somewhat united front in the House Of Commons as of Wednesday. MPs on both sides of the divide have spoken out against the newly-introduced measures. Meanwhile, Nicky Henderson is pondering where to go next with Constitution Hill. The former Champion Hurdler did not feature in entries for the Ebor Handicap at York.
Here is today’s racing news round-up for Thursday.
Ministers speak out against affordability checks
Affordability checks have been criticised in Parliament after it was announced a first set would be rolled out for some of the biggest online gambling spenders. Louie French, the shadow Culture Secretary, said that we were told “these checks could go ahead only if they were truly frictionless.” more worrying he says, is the “fuelling of the black market which should be at the front of everyone’s minds.” Others to speak out included Labour MP Dan Carden. (Racing Post)
Constitution Hill plans remain up in the air
2023 Champion Hurdle hero Constitution Hill remains without a racecourse target. The nine-year-old will not contest the Ebor at York after failing to receive an entry. Nicky Henderson suggested the fact he is not qualified as yet for the decision. Henderson believes he would not be able to run beforehand, qualifying him for the race, before then running again at York. The Seven Barrows trainer concluded saying “there’s no plans, but we’re going to make one.” (Racing Post)
Floresta claims Wednesday feature
There was Group 3 action at Fairyhouse on Wednesday. The feature Stanerra Stakes was won in good style by Floresta for Johnny Murtagh. The daughter of Arc winner Waldgeist was winning for the third time in her career to date. Progressive last term, she had won in Listed company over this 1m6f distance and has now graduated to Group company. Murtagh said “the real Floresta showed up today and that’s what she loves doing.” (Irish Examiner)
Inis Mor to be supplemented for Irish Oaks
Connections are set to supplement Inis Mor for the Irish Oaks. The fourth Irish Classic is scheduled for Saturday 18 July at the Curragh. David Menuisier’s filly has improved up in distance to 1m2f this term. She won the Listed Height Of Fashion Stakes at Goodwood, form which is working out well. She was subsequently third in the Prix De Diane (French Oaks) behind the unbeaten Diamond Necklace. A further step up to 1m4f is now in the offing. (PA via Racing TV)
Staying stalwart Sweet William retired
One of the stalwarts of the staying scene, Sweet William, has been retired. The seven-year-old, trained by John & Thady Gosden, won two editions of the Doncaster Cup and also claimed 2m Group races at Ascot and Sandown. He was also placed in two editions of the Gold Cup at the royal meeting. Sweet William retires after the latest of those, in which he was third behind Scandinavia and stablemate Trawlerman last month. (Thoroughbred Daily News)