Disgusting phone and online abuse is getting worse and something needs to change

5 months ago 44

CHELTENHAM takes centre stage again today and that’s always a win for racing.

It’s highly competitive stuff and I’m hoping Black Gerry (2.20) can run a big race in the Paddy Power Gold Cup.

He is a big price and will almost certainly need the run so, if you’re backing him, make sure it’s each-way!

We trainers always pray our horses go well — though some punters seem to think we want to see them lose.

Whether it’s a big day at Cheltenham or a wet Tuesday at Plumpton, if I have a loser, I’ll almost certainly have someone ringing up shouting abuse. It’s got worse the last few years and I can’t wrap my head around why.

Ryan had a fall at Windsor a few years ago and I had someone ring me up asking if he was okay . . . before telling me how upset he was Ryan hadn’t died.

You’d think the injuries suffered by Graham and other jockeys would stop these low-lifes, but it’s the opposite.

Everyone in the sport faces risk every day, whether it’s riding on the gallops or on the racecourse.

I’m not sure what can be done to combat the issue of abuse — be it on the phone or online — but it’s something that needs looking at. I have been in the game a long time and have a thick skin, but not everyone can brush it off.

I did get a small amount of revenge one time. I had an angry punter who forget to withhold his number when he first called me to shout some foul-mouthed abuse.

I called him back at random points in the wee hours of the night until he changed his number!

Finally, whether you’re at Cheltenham or watching on the sofa, don’t forget to sign the affordability petition today. It is crucial for the sport and it’s long-term future.

And don’t call me if Black Gerry doesn’t win! You have been warned.