October
FebruaryThe old switcheroo
Backtrack by John Adams (3/2) recalled the huge plunge on Red Diver at Moonee Valley, ridden by that great money rider Kevin Mitchell.
However, Mitchell was not a last- minute riding change. He was listed in the morning press.
Mitchell had won on the stablemate Androcles at Kyneton, at his previous start. Pat Hyland was notified for this horse in the Valley race but for whatever reason was replaced by seven-pound claiming apprentice Kevin Cain.
Androcles eased to 5/1 after the switch while Red Diver was backed off the map.
These were the days when off-course win and place bets closed 40 minutes before each race and there was often controversy involving late scratchings and riding engagements.
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