Bolger one – British press nil

I was so pleased to see New Approach come home first in the Epsom Derby last Saturday. The scenes shared by all in the winner’s enclosure were something many will never experience again.

Head groom Pat O’Donovan was understandably ecstatic and, as he fought back the tears, it was clear that exercise rider Adrian Taylor’s dream had now become a reality.

Jim Bolger, the winning handler, had been subject to much unfair criticism prior to the weekend showpiece. I offered my opinion on the situation in last week’s XPRESS and it was great that Mr Bolger was able to give a thumbs-up to those that knocked him. His decision was obviously well vindicated.

At the post-race press conference, I can tell you the Classic-winning trainer didn’t hold back when thronged by a hive of journalists eager to get that much anticipated quote.

One member of the press, working for The Sun was left stuttering and lost for words as the Irish maestro returned a few metaphoric punches.

I did feel sorry for the poor girl, who had probably never even heard of New Approach or the trainer until the morning of the race, but, if you’re going to ask silly questions...

Even the infamously outspoken John McCririck seemed particularly restrained and watched events unfold at the back of the press contingent.

I also bumped into Dubai Racing Club media tycoon Terry Spargo, who had been spending some time up in the commentary box with the Epsom announcer.

I asked him: "Is Mr Hoiles going to let you call a race?" To which he replied: "I don’t think so. It is Derby day!"

Well, considering he has called home the last eight victors of the world’s richest horse race, he should have no problems with the cambers of Epsom.

I believe he’s planning a "working holiday" at Royal Ascot, which gets under way on Tuesday, so perhaps Mr McGrath of the BBC better check behind his binoculars!

As is part and parcel with such events, more winning jockeys were issued with unnecessary suspensions for seemingly falling foul of the rules. Frankie Dettori and Jamie Spencer were just two riders in hot water, but thankfully, each will not be missing from Royal Ascot.

It wouldn’t surprise me if the British racing stewards propose to follow Dubai’s camel racing initiative of using robot jockeys. I’m sure they would have plenty of fun controlling the modern-day technology from the armchair in the stewards’ room.