Bookmaker fears Autumn Glow’s ‘Winx feel’ could bring $1m loss
Veteran TAB trader Tim Ryan fears love for Autumn Glow could land him a $1 million liability for his bookmaker on the Golden Eagle at Royal Randwick on Saturday.
Ryan said Friday that the payout for the Autumn Glow win in the $10 million race isn’t yet close to seven figures, but “she has a good chance of getting there on race day” as money keeps coming in for the undefeated Chris Waller-trained filly.
Ryan, who liked the prospect of the linebacker causing an upset, raised the price on Autumn Glow, but later took the price back when the bookies pounced.
“I’m a little bit against Autumn Glow,” Ryan said. “I think this is his toughest test to date. He’s fourth in this prep and he’s never been this deep in prep. And it’s four weeks between barrier trial and runs.
“So I bet $2.30 and now he’s at $1.90 and he’s the best backed horse anywhere in the country. I think he’s worth twice as much money as the next most popular horse, Observer in the VRC Derby.
“The punters absolutely love him. They won’t hear about him getting beat. I don’t think he’s a fluke, but I’m a bit annoyed with the money coming in.”
Trainer Chris Waller leads Autumn Glow from track practice at Rosehill Gardens on Wednesday.Credit: KATE GERAGHTY
He had placed bets of $4,000 and $5,000 for Autumn Glow to win, and bet $50,000 for her to place at $1.25. Autumn said Glow’s role in the multis will be “very important” in terms of overall responsibility.
“There are short-priced favorites in Randwick and even more in Melbourne,” he said. “A lot will come down to how the favorites fare earlier in the day and the multiple shots.
