Bookies fear 'Fallon factor'

Fresh life has been breathed into the Melbourne Cup ante-post market following the confirmation that Kieren Fallon will be allowed to partner Yeats in the famous race.

Riding arrangements had not been finalised for the Ascot Gold Cup winner, who currently heads William Hill’s market as the 7-1 favourite, but the Australian authorities today approved Fallon’s application for a licence.

The bookmaking firm have unsurprisingly reported a major surge in interest in Aidan O’Brien’s charge for the Flemington feature, following the news that Fallon is free to take the reins on November 7.

“It’s been a topsy turvy few weeks for punters, but the news that Kieren has been cleared to ride Yeats is great for those that have already backed him and it’s a real boost to the race,” explained William Hill spokesman Ben Clarke.

“Kieren is undoubtedly one of the best riders in the world, and a favourite among punters, so while we are holding the 7-1 at the moment, the ‘Fallon factor’ is likely to influence that price over the next few days.”

Fallon is currently suspended from riding in Britain, but Racing Victoria Ltd invited him to apply for a licence after discussing the issue at a board meeting last week.

A statement released by RVL today confirmed the board’s decision and read: “Kieren Fallon will be permitted to ride in this year’s Spring Racing Carnival after Racing Victoria Limited today approved the Irish jockey’s application for a Victorian “A” (flat) riders’ licence."

Fallon is yet to take a ride Down Under, but the Irishman’s considerable talent in the saddle has evidently persuaded punters to keep the faith in Yeats after he was surprisingly turned over at odds of 2-7 in the Irish St Leger last month.

Emirates Melbourne Cup, William Hill Bet: 7-1 Yeats, 8-1 Headturner, Tawqeet, 9-1 Sphenophyta, 10-1 Railings, 12-1 Activation, Geordieland, Imperial Stride, Our Smoking Joe, Zipping, 16-1 On A Jeune, Serenade Rose, 20-1 bar.