A punter turned just £10 into more than £6,000 with an incredible bet which included a 50-1 'no-hoper.'
John Raybould had to wait just an hour for his single note to turn into the four-figure sum at Thirsk. The racing fan backed two horses trained by Nigel Tinker – including one he part-owns with friend Stewart Perkins.
First to strike was 12-1 shot As If By Chance in the Constant Security Services Handicap over six furlongs. The 11-10 favourite on his prior start, when only fourth of six, Rowan Scott's mount appeared to have work to do on the formbook.
A slow start did not help the gelding's cause and he took a keen hold, but the 71-rated runner still had enough energy to chase the leader Runninwild.
As If By Chance galloped into the lead inside the final furlong and drew clear by a length and three quarters.
Then it was the turn of 'no-hoper' Glory Hallelujah, 50-1 for the C onstant-services.com Handicap. Listed to carry the blue and white striped colours of Raybould and Perkins, the three-year-old had shown very little in four racecourse outings.
A fourth on debut at York in September 2021 was his best run to date, however the sprinter had finished last on both starts this season.
The outsider of the whole field at 50-1, punters again expected the son of Cotai Glory to finish at the back of the field. However w ith a first-time visor replacing cheekpieces, Glory Hallelujah led a furlong from the finish and held his advantage to the line.
Tinkler explained to the stewards that his charge benefitted from the application of the new headgear.
As Glory Hallelujah returned to the winners' enclosure, the owners were interviewed by Racing TV. Presenter Jess Stafford was amused by Raybould's admission that he had placed a "small" double on the two horses.
A £10 win stake returned £6,6.30.
"It was a brilliant run, he never really looked like losing," Raybould said. "I've only had a small double, but I've won about £6,000 quid for £10!"
Perkins told Stafford the pair used to own six-time winner Archie Perkins, who they sadly lost prematurely. They praised Tinkler for his role in preparing their horses in peak condition for the track.
"He's a best pal as well as the best trainer," added Perkins.
The jolly owners and their friends rounded off the evening with a rendition of the well-known song 'Hallelujah' in Thirsk's 'winning connections' room.
