'I think this is the best start to a year we've ever had'

This stable tour was originally printed in the Racing Post Weekender on Wednesday, May 12. Buy the Weekender every week for top stable tours and great insight from weekly columnist Ed Walker.

The Spigot Lodge team have made a flying start to the year with 24 winners on the board already thanks largely to the all-weather runners.

Karl Burke says: “I think this is the best start to a year we’ve ever had. The all-weather team did a great job for us. We have some lovely horses – I hope Lady In France could pick up a big Group race, while Dandalla has already proved herself at Group 2 level and is in great shape. Add to that the likes of Spycatcher and Lord Of The Lodge and we have plenty to be optimistic about. Obviously we hope others come through the ranks and I have to say the juveniles look a particularly nice bunch this season, plus we have some interesting fillies for later on.”

Burke, who trains in Middleham, has 130 horses and admits he has been very fortunate to have strong support despite the problems the pandemic has brought for the sport.

“From our point of view I’m optimistic despite the current climate, but I know a helluva lot of people are struggling. The prize-money is a huge issue that will only get worse. I think the industry is in a lot of trouble and the next 12 months are going to be even more important as things get stickier.

“The bookies, and particularly the racecourses, aren’t playing ball in my opinion. I know they’ve had a hard time but they have massive revenue that they’re holding back and aren’t being transparent about the media rights. We keep asking to see exactly what they’re getting but nothing is forthcoming.

“Until they disclose them and the bookies put more in, things are never going to change and we aren’t going to be anywhere near as strong financially as the French, Australians or Americans where so much more is put back into the sport.”

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