Interview: CLAUDE DUVAL Claude Duval owes his start in Fleet Street to his skill as an off-spin bowler. He went on to an illustrious 47 year career with The Sun, billed as ‘The Punter’s Pal’. In this series of interviews he looks back fondly on the characters and horses that have enlivened his career: Lord Oaksey, Barney Curley, John McCririck, Jenny Pitman, Shergar, Arkle, Frankel and many more get a mention. Kick back, relax and let Claude Duval regale you. Meeting Claude Duval.