October
NovemberMy Shane pain
I would like to add my thoughts to those already published critical of Shane Dye as a “celebrity” expert during the Melbourne Cup carnival.
As it proved his punting advice was no better than that of regular presenters. Dye was obviously engaged more for his name being well known to the once-a-year punter.
His comment after the Melbourne Cup about McEvoy’s ride on Almandin was well over the top.
I personally did not have a bet. I liked Hartnell, but not the price of $5.50 for a horse that was unproved at the distance. Although bookmakers were betting fair percentages (116 per cent at SP and just over 50 per cent the first four lines), I felt I was entitled to at least $7 about a horse who had plenty of class but was a severe distance doubt.
As they came around the turn, having observed James McDonald’s brilliant ride on Hartnell, I declared that if he stayed the 3200 metres he would win easily. Of course he didn’t and was beaten by two dour stayers with, in my opinion, much less class but superior stamina.
But for Dye to claim that half a mile (800m) from home Almandin was the only horse you wanted to be on was typical of his smart remarks after the event.
As for his ability as a TV presenter, try a smile now and then, Shane. You’ll find it exhilarating.
Brighton (Qld)