Punters rage at Cheltenham shambles as race starts with Willie Mullins’ horse facing the WRONG way


PUNTERS were left absolutely fuming after yet more false start drama hit Cheltenham Festival.

Seven jockeys were banned on day two for ‘misconduct‘ at the start – resulting in several false starts which hampered horses’ chances.

Horse race with a fallen jockey.
The race started with the fancied Willie Mullins-trained Maughreen facing the wrong way
Horse race in progress.
She was completely detached and had no chance after yet more false start drama

https://twitter.com/RacingTV/status/1900178972664578529

But the worst of the lot hit the 11-1 Willie Mullins-trained Maughreen on the first race on Thursday, the Grade 2 Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle.

After one false start the 24 mares were led back into a line for a standing start – except Maughreen, who was ridden by Willie’s son Patrick.

She was facing the wrong way and whipped round at the start just as the flag went down, giving her and punters who backed her absolutely no chance.

It is the starter’s job to realise when a horse is facing the wrong way and give it a chance to get right before setting off.

But totally detached as the race just got underway, Maughreen had already given up a good 30 lengths and had no chance of getting it back.

Punters let their anger be known on social media – while pundits at the track said it was a joke as well.

Fuming Racing TV presenter Dan Barber said: “I don’t even think it’s a blame game. The law is an ass.

“The preferred method to start a race over jumps is a walk-in start, so why then refer to an inferior option after one go?

Cheltenham 2025 – all you need

“Maughreen has had one run and her campaign has been building up to one day.

“She’s one of a dozen horses who have been impacted this week by standing starts.

“They really should try walk-in starts again – I think the rule is stupid.”

One punter wrote: “Maughreen facing backwards when the starter said go. Farce.”

Another said: “Maughreen facing the wrong way at the start, should be voided.”

And a fellow punter posted: “Maughreen facing wrong way. How is that right.”

Jockey Keith Donoghue, one of those banned after winning a race on Wednesday, was scathing of the starters.

He said: “Use common sense, they don’t like doing that too often.”

FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.


Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

About admin