Racing: Club investigates 'bent' claims

The Jockey Club is to investigate claims made by the former jump jockey Willie McFarland that he made "thousands" out of "bent" races. In a Sunday newspaper McFarland boasts that he supplemented his earnings by betting and receiving gifts from gamblers.

McFarland also cites seven "case studies" of horses ridden by him which landed gambles.

The Jockey Club PRO, John Maxse, said that although an investigation will take place, it was unlikely to result in action against McFarland. "The headlines mention 'bent' races but there is no evidence in the case studies," Maxse said. "They all include good old-fashioned gambles on horses lined up for a punt; and Willie has done the job."