Redgrave could be hot stuff

The Beijing Olympics may be in full swing, but that has not stopped bookmakers speculating on what might happen in 2012.

For instance, Ladbrokes are betting on who will  light the 2012 Olympic Flame and, for those who do not mind tying up their money for a lengthy period, the 4-5 offered against Sir Steve Redgrave could represent something of a gift.

Redgrave famously won five gold medals during his glittering career and even Ladbrokes seem resigned to the fact that he is something of a certainty.  Nick Weinberg, of Ladbrokes, said: “Sir Steve Redgrave is universally accepted as Britain’s greatest ever olympian. It’d be a huge surprise if he’s overlooked.”

Lord Coe (8-1) and Dame Kelly Holmes (10-1) are the only potential candidates quoted at shorter than 20-1.

Meanwhile, betting on Britain’s Flag carrier in 2012 is much more open.

Chris Hoy (7-1), Ben Ainslie (8-1), and Bradley Wiggins (8-1) head the betting, with Rebecca Adlington (10-1), Tom Daley (16-1) and Lewis Price (16-1) also on the shortlist.