Racing: Bad News, good News

A MARE triumphed at Catterick yesterday, much to the surprise of punters who noted she had finished last of 10 runners - beaten 89 lengths - on her previous run. Derek Shaw, trainer of Cliburnel News, expressed bemusement at the win.

Cliburnel News had flopped at Doncaster, but under a patient tide from Richard Mullen yesterday she reeled in the front-running favourite Eternity inside the final furlong to prevail by two lengths at 10-1.

"I really haven't got a clue why she ran so badly last time," Shaw said. "The vet checked her over after the race at Doncaster but he could find nothing.''

Adrian Pratt, the director ofPlumpton racecourse, has been elected to the British Horseracing Board as an Industry-nominated member and director for a term of four years. The vote for the position vacated by Matthew McCloy took place yesterday.

With the BHB having voiced concern of the lack of a jump racing interest in the boardroom, Pratt's appointment was perhaps predictable.

West Country trainer Paul Nicholls holds a charity open day on Sunday, 30 August at Manor Farm Stables, Ditcheat, near Shepton Mallet. Gates open at 11.30 am and admission is pounds 4.