CHURCHILL GETS VOTE

PUNTERS yesterday backed Churchill into odds-on for the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown next Saturday — as bookies declared the 10-furlong Group 1 “a one-horse race”.

The dual 2,000 Guineas hero (left), who has suffered defeat at Royal Ascot and York on his last two outings, was as big as 7-4 to redeem his reputation in Dublin next weekend.

But Paddy Power now go 10-11 after a surge of support for the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt.

Paddy Power spokesman Paul Binfield said: “The Irish Champion is a one-horse race as far as punters are concerned — they’ve only got eyes for Churchill.

“Running plans about a few of the favourite’s rivals are up in the air, and it has been a case of one-way traffic.”