AS a top football agent David Manasseh has done world record deals all over the globe.
He has brokered transfers of superstars Gareth Bale and Jack Grealish — and been on hand to see them win Champions League titles with Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Gareth Bale’s agent David Manasseh was reduced to tears with Willie Mullins when Ballyburn won at last year’s Festival – and is aiming for the same again 12 months on[/caption]
But even the thrill of those big football nights — and the millions banked — did not compare to his emotions when Ballyburn romped home to win the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle at last year’s Festival.
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only).
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…
- Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
- Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
- Exclusive access to Templegate’s daily NAP
- Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
- Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
- VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk
Manasseh will be back at Cheltenham on Wednesday with Ballyburn, who he owns in partnership with Banbridge owner Ronnie Bartlett — favourite for the second race on day two, the Grade 1 Brown Advisory Novice Chase, formerly known as the RSA.
The Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old Ballyburn cruised to a 13-length win last year and has taken well to fences.
Manasseh said: “It was fantastic last year and it was very emotional in the winners’ enclosure.
“There are 13 Grade 1s, which tend to be won by about seven or eight people. And I have a chance to be one of them — it’s incredible.
“I would like to have more horses, but don’t really have the time to go racing much.
“I did go to the Newmarket Sales for the first time last year, and was tempted to put my hand up… but didn’t really know what I was doing!”
With his agency CAA Stellar looking after hundreds of top footballers Manasseh is usually glued to his phone — but has been nervously screening calls from Mullins over the last week.
He said: “Nobody wants a call from a trainer just before Cheltenham! Every time my phone has rung I’ve been praying it’s not Willie!”
Thankfully that dreaded call has not come — but Manasseh said: “I’ve barely been able to sleep!
“These animals are so fragile, I just want to see him in the parade ring on Wednesday.
“Willie’s professionalism and work ethic are in another stratosphere. I compare him to the top football managers.
“He’s the best in the business but, unlike some football bosses, is always available and willing to give you time.”
Manasseh has taken a box at the Festival for the last 20 years to entertain clients, but this week will be surrounded by family on Wednesday.
His one disappointment is Harry Redknapp’s horse, The Jukebox Man — who led for nearly every stride of the Albert Bartlett last year before being caught on the line — has been ruled out with injury.
Manasseh said: “I was looking forward to talking to Harry in the parade ring and it’s a shame The Jukebox Man won’t be running.
“Harry had his first winner at the Festival last year too, and it would have been great to have take him on.
“Maybe I will be able to catch up with Harry at some stage at the Festival though. He is a legend.”
Now Manasseh hopes Ballyburn can become a Festival legend.
He said: “It would be great to see him win this year — and then come back and do it again in the Gold Cup.”
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
