Bookies pay out on Hughes

Some bookmakers believe this year’s jockeys’ title race is as good as over after paying out on Richard Hughes being crowned champion for the first time in his career.

Hughes enjoyed a fantastic six-timer on Wednesday and another couple of winners on Thursday took him to 138 for the season, 16 clear of nearest pursuer Ryan Moore, who remains sidelined by injury.

The jockey rode a double at Newbury yesterday afternoon, partnering Rule Book (7-1) and Wentworth (8-11) to victory for boss Richard Hannon, and both Victor Chandler and Paddy Power believe his lead is now unassailable.

Victor Chandler spokesman Charlie McCann said: “When we opened a market on the 2012 title Hughes was 8-1 but was no bigger than 4-1 even when the BHA upheld the 50-day ban imposed by the Indian authorities earlier in the year, which kept him out of action until April 30.

“He went odds-on for the first time at the beginning of August and looked the champion jockey-elect even before Ryan Moore suffered his latest injury. He is a worthy champion jockey.”