but the result was there for everyone to see'

Betfair's in-running market has seen some huge sums traded and lost after the impossible somehow became reality.

Ventura Dragon, Seyaady and Magic Mark were the favourites for the opening race of Carlisle's 2017 Flat season. Seiyaady was making his first start.

Seyaady and Ventura Dragon had a coming together as they vied for an early position on the inside rail. Albarino and Shay C had gone off hard in front and looked to be still in command. There was a pace collapse in the final half-furlong and Seyaady moved out of Shay's slipstream to take it up. Magic Mark enjoyed a clear run down the middle of the track. Ventura got struck on rail behind the retreating Al barrerino.

Seyaady, Ventura Dragon and Magic Mark finished in a photo finish at Carlisle. Seyaady traded for £46,977 at the minimum price on Betfair and another £38,975 in the photo. Ventura dragon traded at 1,000 (999-1) during the race and £1.20 in photo, which cost a total of £85,952.

'Took keen hold, held up on inside, checked and pushed along after 1f, ridden and headway over 1 f out, kept on well final furlong to lead post.

'Tracked leaders, effort and ran green 2f out, led well inside final furlong, kept on, headed post.

Tim Palin is director of racing for Middleham Park Racing, owners of Ventura Dragon. He doesn't remember how much money was spent but it was carnage. The horse was beaten 97% of the time, but only 3% when his head was in front. The camera angle could have misled everybody. Tony Hamilton timed his run perfectly. It was possible that Ventura dragon had landed £10,000 for the Plus 10 bonus.

Seyaady won the last of his three starts at Wolverhampton. Ventura Dragon went on to win three of 13 starts for Fahey. He was sold by Shadwell for £22,000 at the Horses-in-Training sales.