Racing: Leger sale odds give the punters value

CONNECTIONS OF the three leading contenders for the pounds 200,000 St Leger Yearling Stakes at Doncaster on Wednesday are likely to be on good terms with themselves and at least three ante-post punters will be feeling the same way, according to bookmakers William Hill.

Spokesman David Hood explained: "We produced odds over the winter for this race based on the horses' auction price at last year's sale. Nothing was less than 33-1 and there were plenty of takers - we laid over 50 horses.

"However, the 40-1 Flanders, 50-1 Monkston Point and 50-1 Patriot all look particularly good at the moment. They stand out on their ratings and will be a lot shorter when we price the race again on Wednesday."

Hills will be offering the same ante-post market for next year's race from the end of the sale through to the start of the turf Flat season in March.

"It is aimed primarily at the vendors, buyers and trainers of the sale consignment, but in fact anyone can have a bet" added Hood.

Odds are on a sliding scale and a horse bought at last year's sale for less than pounds 5,000 was 100-1, between pounds 5,001 and pounds 10,000 66-1, rising to anything over pounds 30,000 being among the favourites at 33-1.

RICHARD EDMONDSON

Nap: Snow Partridge

(Bath 4.00)

NB: Cauda Equina

(Bath 5.00)