Fortune to ride Rip Van Winkle

Fortune is grateful to partner Rip Van Winkle

Jimmy Fortune has been given the go-ahead to partner Rip Van Winkle in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown this weekend. The jockey was handed the ride after Johnny Murtagh was unsuccessful in overturning a suspension he received at Royal Ascot in June. Commenting on Murtagh's relationship with the horse, Fortune said: "It's quite obvious that Johnny likes the horse a lot because he rode him in the Derby even when there was a doubt about his stamina."This sort of dedication means Rip Van Winkle must have been impressive at home, although a shorter race at a mile and a quarter should benefit him, he added. Fortune also commented that he is "very grateful" to be atop the horse for such an important race. William Hill (Go to William Hill »)currently has Sea The Stars as a 4/5 favourite in the Coral-Eclipse on Saturday. Those looking to bet on Rip Van Winkle can find odds at 7/2 with Totesport (Go to Totesport »).

Written By:- Andy (About our Authors)
Posted on:- 02/07/2009 - 14:30 PM
Filed in:- Horse Racing Betting News