Azertyuiop takes over at top

Azertyuiop galloped to the top of the BHB’s Order Of Merit leaderboard this afternoon despite coming off second best to Moscow Flyer in the William Hill Tingle Creek Trophy at Sandown Park.

The seven-year-old’s owner John Hales was understandably disappointed to fill the runner-up berth, but was glad to be heading the table at this stage of the season.

“We came up against a fantastic horse today, but to be at the top of the Order Of Merit is a positive,” he said.

Azertyuiop currently has 31 points in the championship, four more than his closest rival Chives, who scored an impressive victory in the 16th Order Of Merit race at Haydock.

The winner of the Tommy Whittle Chase had led the leaderboard until the victory of Azertyuiop at Sandown.

“Although it’s a long way to the end of the season, the Order Of Merit is another objective for us,” said his owner Trevor Hemmings.

“The handicapper has eased down on him and it’s great that he’s won a race like today’s. As an owner it’s good to have the chance of a return on our investments.”

Following today’s activity, Azertyuiop has shortened to 3-1 with Stan James to win the championship, with Moscow Flyer second favourite at 14-1 along with Perouse, while Well Chief is 16-1 and Chives 33-1.

Positions: 1 Azertyuiop 31, 2= Chives, Farmer Jack and Perouse 27, 5= Crystal D’Ainay and Sir Rembrandt 24, 7 Telemoss 23, 8= Celestial Gold, Harchibald and Moscow Flyer 20.