Feeling Brave & Taking on Aidan!

You can’t talk about UK racing without giving a nod to the St Leger. It’s the oldest of the British classics, dating all the way back to 1776, and it’s packed with history, prestige, and some real drama. It’s the kind of race that’s been around so long, it’s part of racing’s soul, and every year, plenty of punters get stuck in and have a bet.

Today’s action is at Doncaster, with the race kicking off at 3:40 pm. Ballydoyle’s Aidan O’Brien is gunning for his ninth St Leger win — which is seriously impressive — but he’s still a fair way off John Scott’s record of 16 victories from the 1800s. O’Brien has a strong hand, with some top-class runners like Lambourn, who’s already won the Derby, and Scandinavia, who recently ran a decent race in the Goodwood Cup. Stay True, who finished fourth in the Great Voltigeur, is also in the mix and could add some value to the betting.

But The Guvnor is taking Ballydoyle on — Carmers could be the one to cause a bit of a stir. He’s a Wootton Bassett colt that didn’t race as a two-year-old, but he’s come on strong this season. After winning his first three races—including a nice win in the Queens Vase at Royal Ascot, breaking the course record—he’s shown plenty of stamina and staying power. His last run at York in the Voltigeur was a good second, and that suggested he’s got what it takes to step up in trip and handle different ground conditions. He had a memorable day over a stiffer test at Royal Ascot, where Paddy Twomey's star lined up against the likes of Scandinavia, Pinhole and Asmarini for the Group 2 Queen's Vase. Given a lovely ride by Billy Lee, Carmers was prominent throughout and stayed on much the best to take the £150,282 winner's prize.

Speaking to Sky Sports Racing, his trainer said: "It was great to get a Royal Ascot winner and fantastic that he broke the track record. He's a very important horse for Fiona Carmichael who owns him - he's named after her husband. It's great that he's good and is taking her on this journey.

"It was the first time we brought a team that really had a good chance and him winning was the icing on the cake. That's the showpiece for our industry nowadays, Royal Ascot is the top of the top for the Flat job and everybody wants to be there."

Lee recalled: "I'd probably committed him early enough at Ascot, but I knew he'd stay really well. The only worry I had was just inside the furlong pole, they were coming and I wondered whether they would sail by me. He picked up again and pricked his ears going to the line, so there was plenty left in the locker, thank God."

Back to 1m 6f and on a surface that should suit, Carmers looks well-placed for a big run. Jockey Billy Lee knows him well, and considering he’s available at 4/1 with many firms, he offers some real value if you're after some decent value.

So, if you’re thinking of having a wager, Carmers at 4/1 looks like a tempting pick — he might just surprise a few people today. Recommended Bet: 1.5pts EW Carmers - 3.40 Doncaster at 4/1 with Betfred or Bet365 as they are paying 3 places

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