Am I Blue strikes gold at Hereford

The four-year-old had failed to score on any of her previous 16 starts and had been beaten 88 lengths when last of 12 on her latest appearance at Worcester.

But having been available at 25-1 yesterday morning, the Delyth Thomas-trained filly was backed at all rates down to just 5-1 before the off. In a further twist, leading jockey Richard Johnson was called up as a late replacement for 5lb claimer Dean Coleman, who was booked to ride the horse at the declaration stage.

Am I Blue was sent straight to the head of affairs by Johnson and had her rivals in trouble from the turn for home, passing the post 19 lengths ahead of Northern Lad.

A delighted Thomas, who had gone 1,973 days and 44 runners without a winner, claimed the gamble came as a surprise. "I don't know where it's (the bet money] come from - maybe Richard Johnson riding her?" said Thomas.

"I found out Dean was unwell this morning, so I was stuck, but Richard did a marvellous job. She's had a bad shoulder so we had that sorted and fingers crossed today it's worked.

"She just hasn't been travelling but we changed the tactics today because Richard said he thought she could be made more use of and it's worked. She's so sweet and a lovely mare."

The stewards accepted the trainer's explanation that the improvement in form had been brought about by the change of tactics and spinal therapy - and decided not to hold an inquiry.

Tony McCoy enjoyed an anniversary winner as he guided Mycenean Prince to victory in the Lindley Catering Handicap Hurdle. It was 20 years to the day that the 15-times champion jockey had his first ever ride at Phoenix Park and he was once again the toast of favourite backers at Hereford as he guided the 9-2 shot to a seven-length victory.