Honestly, some people.TAB senior bookmaker Mark Stafford told NBR that 202 New Zealanders bet against- yes, against - Paul the Octopus' predicative powers for today's World Cup finalThe Seer of the Sea did, of course, correctly call the outcome (for
Honestly, some people.
TAB senior bookmaker Mark Stafford told NBR that 202 New Zealanders bet against- yes, against - Paul the Octopus' predicative powers for today's World Cup final
The Seer of the Sea did, of course, correctly call the outcome (for the eight straight time).
The biggest loss was $500, Mr Stafford said.
The biggest bet on Paul was $1000, with the lucky - or should we say sensible? -punter pocketing $1750 after Spain's 1-0 win.
The TAB opened bets on Paul the Octopus last Thursday - allowing people to make a wager on the psychic cephalopod's powers rather than directly on the game itself.
In total, 478 bets were placed, with 60% backing Paul to pick the outcome.
UK bookmakers William Hill said the odds of Paul correctly calling each of Germany's seven games, plus today's final, were 3000:1 on a random basis.
Telegraph columnist Toby Young wrote that Paul (originally from Weymouth) "enjoys the distinction of being the only British national to emerge from this tournament with any credit."
