THERE’S a new battle in the world of jumps jockeys – and it’s got nothing to do with any riding title!
Fashion. Clothes. That’s it. Yes, I know, it’s hard to believe, but free clothes and fashion is taking off with champion Harry Cobden and former top gun Harry Skelton showing the way. Both seem to have been snapped up by Holland Cooper and their social media is full of it.
While his rival sported his regular britches and jacket, Cobden tried out a bold new ‘Peaky Blinders-esque’ outfit choice
I’m used to the female (sometimes male!) ITV presenters taking selfie after selfie for whichever brand has given them their latest free outfit.
But Cobden and Skelton are taking things to a new level. The gilet seems to be the Cobden ‘go to’ item, while Skelton is partial to a black polo neck jumper.
With Cobden, many of his colleagues believe fashion stores are missing a trick. Apparently he wears a pair of tights better than most. You could imagine the Agent Provocateur slogan – ‘Even in a strong finish, these tights won’t ladder’.
Fashion and jockeys has always been an interesting watch. Normal clothes just don’t seem to work with most of them.
To be fair to Cobden and Skelton they are what I think most ladies and men would consider relatively decent looking lads.
I get the feeling Cobden in particularly is relishing his modelling gigs, in some cases for very obvious reasons.
It has been noticed that, as of yet, no modelling contract seems to have been offered to Sean Bowen, which seems harsh but I think most would agree fair. You can’t perform miracles.
Sean’s lush locks brother James Bowen (lots of hair) is another story. I’m told a Moroccanoil contract might be good for him – no better shampoo and conditioner.
I wonder if this new clothing boom is on the back of the ITV documentary Champions: Full Gallop.
Also featuring in that were Nico de Boinville and Gavin Sheehan.
Nico is interesting as far as fashion is concerned. Obviously he looks a lot older than he actually is, but when on holiday he’s not without some style.
He lacks on top what James Bowen has, so possibly a Nico sponsorship option could be Garnier Fructis grow Strong Fortifying Shampoo.
That, though, could be harsh. But maybe not. When I asked Nico what he thought could be his fashion strong point he told me: “I’d be an underwear model with a rig like mine”. Oh matron! String vests it is then.
Sheehan, however, is a different story. A fine stamp of a bloke.
I would feel someone is missing a huge trick not getting Sheehan modelling as soon as possible. I suspect both sexes would flock at Christmas for the new ‘Gavin speedo’ range.
Bring it on.
***************
It’s the Cartier Awards in London on Wednesday where they give out the gongs for the latest Flat season. I don’t get invited to fancy events like that, but I thought I’d have a bit of fun predicting the winners and see how I get on! I’ll give myself a score next week.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
New customer offer with Coral
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact [email protected]
Winner: City of Troy
Cartier Three-Year-Old Filly
Kalpana
Porta Fortuna
Ramatuelle
Tamfana
I think this is quite tough. Kalpana was brilliant at Ascot, but Porta Fortuna has been fabulous all year.
Winner: Porta Fortuna
Cartier Sprinter
Asfoora
Bradsell
Kind Of Blue
Starlust
Starlust was sensational at the Breeders’ Cup, but Bradsell fabulous at Royal Ascot and the Nunthorpe.
Winner: Bradsell
Cartier Stayer
Double Major
Jan Brueghel
Kyprios
Sweet William
Why bother?! Only one option.
Winner: Kyprios
Cartier Two-Year-Old Colt
Henri Matisse
Hotazhell
Shadow Of Light
Whistlejacket
If you win the Dewhurst, however bad a renewal, you win this.
Winner: Shadow of Light
Cartier Two-Year-Old Filly
Babouche
Desert Flower
Fairy Godmother
Lake Victoria
No brainer this, although I suspect Desert Flower is an absolute machine. That all said, there is only one Group 1 heroine in the line-up who scored at the Breeders’ Cup.
Winner: Lake Victoria
There you have it. All done. Ceremony over. Yeeehaaa!
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chases their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
