Yesterday all doubt was put aside when Hurricane Fly won the Irish Champion hurdle readily under pilot Ruby Walsh. Never really looking in trouble throughout the race he hit the front on the turn for home, overtaking stablemate Thousand Stars, whether Ruby wanted him at the front that early is another question but he was just going too well. Oscars Well gave chase in second but never looked in the same County as Hurricane Fly. The performance has punters saying all he has to do is turn up to Cheltenham in March to win. Anyone that got the 11/4 before Sunday will be more than happy.
A Patent is my tip today, not a huge one mind put one i expect to give you a tidy profit. The selections are as follows.
1:20 Ayr - Getting Ready
3:15 Plumpton - Storm Survivor
3:50 Plumpton - Where's Johnny
Getting Ready looks a very nice prospect and definitely on on the improve after winning at the track last time (Previously carried out). He has to give a penalty to Netminder today and he is the clear main danger to the selection. Remove the 'C' from Getting Ready's form and it reads 31 which is very encouraging. Fully expect this to win
Storm Survivor has found a bit of form in his last two runs (although running very lazily last time out) and Jonjo may have found a really nice race for him here to put Maurice Linehan up on (who claims 8 pounds). Very Big run expected.
Where's Johnny is coming to the veteran stage of his career but has lost none of his enthusiasm for the game with two seconds in his last two runs, I fancy him to go one better here after a drop in class and 8/1 looks a very nice price about him.
Put Sammy Spiderman in to make it a Lucky 15 if you wish.
As always happy punting!
My Name and Shame blog has been delayed but will still be coming! I will reveal however it is about Bookmaker Betfred.
Monday 30 January 2012
Saturday 28 January 2012
Festival Trials day continued...
3:40 - A race all about the one and only BIG BUCK'S who is simply supreme over 3 miles. It would seem this is a race for ew betting (as it usually is with Big Buck's in there). FIVE DREAM has filled the second spot behind his stablemate the last two times and is still each way value, although with MOURAD in the race his life is a bit harder today. Willie Mullins horse was only beaten 4 and a half lengths by the favourite in the world hurdle but there is more than meets the eye with Ruby Walsh dropping his whip on his mount. It has been confirmed that DYNASTE will be restrained a bit more than last time today, but that still might not be enough. It would appear that the other two dont matter in the betting. I would take a chance on another Nicholls 1-2 today with Five Dream enjoying himself since being put back over hurdles.
4:15 - HINTERLAND is the notable entry here after being entered for the first race on the card today but the Champion Trainer sends him to the handicap hurdle. Its fair to say he has a chance but his inexperience wont help him at all today. SIVOLA DE SIVOLA is a consistent type and should give each way backers a shout today at 16/1. DARE ME is a very useful horse in his own right but is back after a long lay off and is best watched today. NEARBY is usually thereabouts in big handicaps, it would be no surprise to see him win today on the other hand it would be no surprise to see him beaten easily. Note this is his first run for Rebecca Curtis today. My bet in this race is ART PROFESSOR who does have his problems but is consistent and ran a nice race last time at Kempton. I know for a fact the Aidan Coleman is sweet on his chances and should take all the beating today.
Mister Hyde/Art Professor for an adventurous double today.
as always happy punting. NAME AND SHAMING A WELL KNOWN BOOKMAKER NEXT BLOG!!
4:15 - HINTERLAND is the notable entry here after being entered for the first race on the card today but the Champion Trainer sends him to the handicap hurdle. Its fair to say he has a chance but his inexperience wont help him at all today. SIVOLA DE SIVOLA is a consistent type and should give each way backers a shout today at 16/1. DARE ME is a very useful horse in his own right but is back after a long lay off and is best watched today. NEARBY is usually thereabouts in big handicaps, it would be no surprise to see him win today on the other hand it would be no surprise to see him beaten easily. Note this is his first run for Rebecca Curtis today. My bet in this race is ART PROFESSOR who does have his problems but is consistent and ran a nice race last time at Kempton. I know for a fact the Aidan Coleman is sweet on his chances and should take all the beating today.
Mister Hyde/Art Professor for an adventurous double today.
as always happy punting. NAME AND SHAMING A WELL KNOWN BOOKMAKER NEXT BLOG!!
Cheltenham Festival Trials Day
12:55 - GRUMETI looked to be romping in at Newbury last time before coming down at the second last and assuming he is none the worse for it he should be the one to beat. BABY MIX burst an early Festival bubble when beating Hinterland (runs in 4:15) comprehensively. It was his first start in England that day and he could hardly have been more impressive, however this race looks more competitive and he has to give Grumeti 3 pounds. PEARL SWAN won on his first start in this country for the champion trainer at Taunton however will need to improve on that to challenge to main protagonists today. COLEBROOK won last time out at Sandown and is the most exposed of the lot today, it could be argued the form of that race isnt very strong but it was the way he won it that impressed me, off the bridle from before 2 out kept digging in and finding more, you would have to think today will be too much for him though. TANGO DE JUILLEY has run well on his 2 British starts and is his first time experiencing good ground today, although may be another that comes up just short. HOLLOW TREE is held on the form line with Hinterland but Donald Mccain's comments have been encouraging about him 'i would have thought Hollow Tree is the one they all have to beat but apparently not!'. If that isnt talking a horse up then i dont know what is. For that reason i'm willing to take Mccain's competitor who himself has done nothing wrong in his early career.
1:30 - ROALCO DE FARGES won impressively at Newbury on Hennessy day beating a big field, but failed to carry on with some improvement last time out with a poor run. ROYALE'S CHARTER unseated James Reveley last week at Ascot, although not seeming to make a mistake. His jumping is usually better and will need to be round Prestbury park, could go close though. CARPINCHO ran a nice race behind Time For Rupert and won at Fontwell last time out, he looks to be a big improver and is sure to run his race again. MISTER CHOW had won really easily at Taunton before tipping up at Southwell last time, this is a step up in class and although a well handicapped horse you would wonder if this is too much. THAT'LLDOBOY and NIGHT ALLIANCE have already competed a finish at this track this season, the latter's jumping let him down last time and the former fell at Kempton on boxing day when in contention, both best watched today. If CHARMINSTER'S form figures are anything to go by he should be second today but he is upped in class today and may be a bit high in the weights. My selection for this race is Maurice Linehan's MISTER HYDE it seems Jonjo is very careful about what horses he puts Linehan on and a big race today is very notable. The horse himself is very useful and has found his form as of late, he could just be a well handicapped horse and should go very close today.
2:05 - You couldn't help but be impressed with how AERIAL won at Ascot but is upped 12 pounds for that win and that could just find him out in a competitive race. The other Paul Nicholls horse is no stranger either in WOOLCOMBE FOLLY who is tumbling down the weights but could still be just a tad high in the weights even with Ryan Mahon's 3 pound claim, note that he is coming down to a winning weight though. CHANCE DU ROY has enjoyed himself this year winning at Newbury and coming second at Chepstow but may just want a bit more give in the ground. Paul Nicholls final runner is in the race also needs no introduction in POQUELIN and with Harry Derham's claim making life easier for him should be there thereabouts. He has had a little break to freshen him up after unseating here last time out but is undoubtedly the class horse of the race after being sent off favourite for the Ryanair twice. THE GIANT BOLSTER has been called just about every name under the sun in his career but last time put in an improved run when second to Time For Rupert. However when visiting Cheltenham his strike rate of completing isnt the best in the world. For that you would have to have doubts. Forgive ARALDUR'S last run and he should enter notebooks while TAMARINBLEU was back to winning way's last time out.
2:35 - The most exciting race on the card with a few festival bubbles to be burst no matter what. There has been a bit of hype about TIDAL BAY in the build up to this race but to say he is difficult is an understatement, he will however be staying on strongly up the hill and does enjoy himself around Cheltenham. DIAMOND HARRY has to give some weight away and we still dont really know how good he is after being taken out of the King George. However i get the feeling he is a little over rated and just short of top class (watch him romp home today). TIME FOR RUPERT has beaten 2 horses running earlier and we could get a form clue seeing how they run (carpincho and the giant bolster). Saying that though he is a very classy animal himself and absolutely loves it round Cheltenham. If he has any Gold Cup dreams then he MUST win today. MIDNIGHT CHASE is a Cheltenham specialist and is sure to come on from his last run, connections have also said he will be ridden more prominently today which is no secret how he prefers it. I on the other hand have quite a strong fancy for CAPTAIN CHRIS who could be one of the biggest bubbles to be burst today but the question is his staying which i dont have any problems with after his King George run.
3:10 - POLISKY has been disappointing and it would appear he is not the horse that was originally thought of him. FORGOTTEN GOLD ran a cracking race behind Barbatos last time out and if he can re-produce that run he should go close and ruffle a few feathers. KNIGHT PASS was mighty impressive with the way he won at Kempton and was sent off 7/1 for the champion bumper last year. He may just come up short against BROADBACKBOB here though who has done nothing wrong and beat Cinders and Ashes (albeit a tad fortunate). He has looked like one of the class novice hurdler's this year and should win this if he is going to follow up in March. BATONNIER beat Forgotten Gold last time when giving him 10 pounds, this is reversed today with Alan King's horse carrying 7 pound less. That should account for Forgotten Gold and at the same time see him go very close.
last two races to follow up
Wednesday 25 January 2012
Hereford Fancies and a Cheltenham Ante Post!
Only a short blog today but feel i should write one after a short break. Have been in awful form in the betting department as of late, but hoping to change things around today. An 11/1 treble im tipping up today. The first two look as if they just have to stand up to win however being odds on favourites. It is also the return of one of my favourite Jockeys in the weighing room today in conditional Maurice Linehan who rides Domos Boy in the 3:00 at hereford, this one shaped with promise last time at Huntingdon last time out and Richie Mclernon never got too serious with him that day. Linehan takes off a crucial 7 pounds and if you didnt already know about him you soon will, unbelievable value for his claim and i am yet to see him throw in a bad ride (which my bank balance thanks him for). So there you have it, the treble today is as follows
1:30 - Tour D'argent
2:00 - Destroyer Deployed
3:00 - Domos Boy
Happy Punting as always
Also on a side note i have taken an each way price ante post for cheltenham. Last year at Sandown i saw a horse from the David Arbuthnot yard called Make A Track win a bumper and immediately said after that he will win or go close in a supreme novices. Two losses to his name but they have come when upped in trip, he is still unbeaten when running over 2 miles. After two runs in England (which he won both bumpers) he has since been bought by Gigginstown Stud in Ireland (who owned the brilliant War Of Attrition) and is now trained by Charlie Swan. I know for certain that he is 33/1 with Paddypower and is a definite each way punt.
1:30 - Tour D'argent
2:00 - Destroyer Deployed
3:00 - Domos Boy
Happy Punting as always
Also on a side note i have taken an each way price ante post for cheltenham. Last year at Sandown i saw a horse from the David Arbuthnot yard called Make A Track win a bumper and immediately said after that he will win or go close in a supreme novices. Two losses to his name but they have come when upped in trip, he is still unbeaten when running over 2 miles. After two runs in England (which he won both bumpers) he has since been bought by Gigginstown Stud in Ireland (who owned the brilliant War Of Attrition) and is now trained by Charlie Swan. I know for certain that he is 33/1 with Paddypower and is a definite each way punt.
Saturday 21 January 2012
Ascot 21st January
It's Saturday which means one thing, top jumps racing and Victor Chandler day at Ascot has failed to disappoint. Competitive racing throughout the card and a high class 2 Mile Chase in the Victor Chandler itself.
1:00 - James Reveley suffered a bad fall on boxing day leaving him out with concussion but has been riding out of his skin since he has been back, he gets the leg up on sure to be popular ROYALE'S CHARTER. He came second behind Menorah last time out, albeit beaten 13 lengths and but was beaten a very long way out. VINO GRIEGO ran a brilliant race two runs ago at this course when finding just the impressive The Minack too good. It seemed a bad mistake at the second last accounted for his chances. Another run like that will see him go very close. OLDRIK is one that has rekindled his old form winning his last two races very nicely and seems to be heading back in the right direction. TRIOLO D'ALENE has his first run in England today but has won a 4 year old chase at Fontainebleau by three lengths. Im willing to take a chance on ACKERTAC who hasnt sparkled over fences yet but has put in some promising runs most notably first time out when second to Micheal Flips over course and distance. Since then he has been tried over more extreme distances and a return to this distance should see him go well and 11/1 is definitely worth an each way punt.
1:30 - KAPGA DE CERISY'S defection leaves us with a field of three and makes BALDER SUCCES'S chance much easier. Just the one run under rules he won a Novice Hurdle at Plumpton in very taking fashion. CUBAN PIECE gets 4 pounds from the favourite and has won a race at Bangor, but his run last time out would suggest he wont get anywhere near Alan King's horse. It's only fair to mention the other horse in the line-up from the Sheena West yard, BRILLIANT BARCA won a juvenile hurdle at Warwick on good ground but failed to fire at all in a very hot race at chepstow last time out on heavy ground. An easy win for BALDER SUCCES looks on the cards today
2:05 - KENTFORD GREY LADY is a horse going very much in the right direction when cosily landing a competitive mares hurdle at Kempton last time out. She had VIOLIN DAVIS and CLOUDY SPIRIT well behind her that day and its very hard to see either of them two reversing that form with her today. OUR GIRL SALLEY won a class one in Ireland last time and for that she has to carry an extra 5 pounds. She however a very useful individual and is certainly towards the top. Even though she is the top rated in the race and could be even better than her mark suggests. KENTFORD GREY LADY falls under the same category and looks certain to be a better horse than her mark suggests. That's why Emma Lavelle's mare is the selection today.
2:35 - A very competitive hurdle here and co-favourites of four as I write this. One of them is SMAD PLACE who has his first run this season and would be no surprise to see him need the run. Also every time he has been upped to a class 1 it has ended in defeat, but could be a better horse this year. CICERON won nicely at Sandown last time out and its notable that Aidan Coleman isnt here to ride him who he really likes. I get the feeling that his big day this season has come but should be close. SHOREACRES was caught on the line on boxing day by Deireadh Re but it was still a very good performance and its notable that Barry Geraghty gets the leg up today. A BRIDGE TOO FAR always seems to find one too good and may be best swerved today until he shows a real winning attitude, although he has won before. PATEESE would have appreciated softer going and its hard to see him having a solid chance today. My selection is Nicky Henderson's JOSEPH LISTER who has 10 pounds taken off by very useful claimer Gary Derwin who won on him last time at Huntingdon. He didnt beat much that day but it was only his third run and will come on leaps and bounds for that.
3:10 - A race that revolves around the top two AL FEROF and FINIAN'S RAINBOW. The latter won the Desert Orchid chase last time out at Kempton in very impressive style and it looks like he will take all the beating and is my NAP of the day. With AL FEROF It's hard to see a novice winning a Victor Chandler especially with only two runs over fences under his belt. He won the Henry 8th Novice Chase at Ascot last time battling off For Non Stop who failed to frank the form next time out when beaten by Cue Card. the form from that race isnt the strongest and definitely not up to a race of this standard. FORPADYDEPLASTERER is an admirable sort and always runs his race but finds winning hard to come by. GAUVAIN doesnt look as good over 2 miles as 2 and a half and should come up short again here. WISHFULL THINKING was beaten by our selection last time out and with doubt's in the hobbs camp about him it is hard to see him reversing the form today. SOMERSBY doesnt look fast enough in a finish anymore for a 2 miler and his future surely lies over longer trips.
3:45 - My NB today is Martin Keighley's ALL FOR FREE who looked as if he was screaming out for 2 and a half miles when staying on like a train last time out at Sandown and he still gets in at a very low weight. TATENEN enjoys it round here but is very temperamental and if on a going day could win this race with ease (remember he was once sent off favourite for an Arkle). ZAYNAR falls under the same category and looked back to his best when winning last time out at this course but isnt sure to get his own way out in front today. NOLAND is dropped in trip after a valiant effort in the Lexus behind Synchronised but a return to his very best will see him take all the beating while the handicapper looks to have caught RENARD now. HECTOR'S CHOICE ran a very good race at Cheltenham last time behind Calgary Bay, a repeat of that will surely see another positive outcome. ALL FOR FREE is the very strong selection though.
4:20 - A Novice hurdle that is headed by Nicky Henderson's HADRIAN'S APPROACH who won here first time out while being very green, he will come on for that run and should take all the beating. GROVE PRIDE has run well in all his runs so far but is yet to get his head in front. THE PRETENDER is from the Paul Nicholls yard and should come on for his first run when sixth at Warwick. BE ALL MAN was behind Joseph Lister last time out and is considered especially if Joseph Lister runs well.
NAP - Finian's rainbow
NB - All for free
1:00 - James Reveley suffered a bad fall on boxing day leaving him out with concussion but has been riding out of his skin since he has been back, he gets the leg up on sure to be popular ROYALE'S CHARTER. He came second behind Menorah last time out, albeit beaten 13 lengths and but was beaten a very long way out. VINO GRIEGO ran a brilliant race two runs ago at this course when finding just the impressive The Minack too good. It seemed a bad mistake at the second last accounted for his chances. Another run like that will see him go very close. OLDRIK is one that has rekindled his old form winning his last two races very nicely and seems to be heading back in the right direction. TRIOLO D'ALENE has his first run in England today but has won a 4 year old chase at Fontainebleau by three lengths. Im willing to take a chance on ACKERTAC who hasnt sparkled over fences yet but has put in some promising runs most notably first time out when second to Micheal Flips over course and distance. Since then he has been tried over more extreme distances and a return to this distance should see him go well and 11/1 is definitely worth an each way punt.
1:30 - KAPGA DE CERISY'S defection leaves us with a field of three and makes BALDER SUCCES'S chance much easier. Just the one run under rules he won a Novice Hurdle at Plumpton in very taking fashion. CUBAN PIECE gets 4 pounds from the favourite and has won a race at Bangor, but his run last time out would suggest he wont get anywhere near Alan King's horse. It's only fair to mention the other horse in the line-up from the Sheena West yard, BRILLIANT BARCA won a juvenile hurdle at Warwick on good ground but failed to fire at all in a very hot race at chepstow last time out on heavy ground. An easy win for BALDER SUCCES looks on the cards today
2:05 - KENTFORD GREY LADY is a horse going very much in the right direction when cosily landing a competitive mares hurdle at Kempton last time out. She had VIOLIN DAVIS and CLOUDY SPIRIT well behind her that day and its very hard to see either of them two reversing that form with her today. OUR GIRL SALLEY won a class one in Ireland last time and for that she has to carry an extra 5 pounds. She however a very useful individual and is certainly towards the top. Even though she is the top rated in the race and could be even better than her mark suggests. KENTFORD GREY LADY falls under the same category and looks certain to be a better horse than her mark suggests. That's why Emma Lavelle's mare is the selection today.
2:35 - A very competitive hurdle here and co-favourites of four as I write this. One of them is SMAD PLACE who has his first run this season and would be no surprise to see him need the run. Also every time he has been upped to a class 1 it has ended in defeat, but could be a better horse this year. CICERON won nicely at Sandown last time out and its notable that Aidan Coleman isnt here to ride him who he really likes. I get the feeling that his big day this season has come but should be close. SHOREACRES was caught on the line on boxing day by Deireadh Re but it was still a very good performance and its notable that Barry Geraghty gets the leg up today. A BRIDGE TOO FAR always seems to find one too good and may be best swerved today until he shows a real winning attitude, although he has won before. PATEESE would have appreciated softer going and its hard to see him having a solid chance today. My selection is Nicky Henderson's JOSEPH LISTER who has 10 pounds taken off by very useful claimer Gary Derwin who won on him last time at Huntingdon. He didnt beat much that day but it was only his third run and will come on leaps and bounds for that.
3:10 - A race that revolves around the top two AL FEROF and FINIAN'S RAINBOW. The latter won the Desert Orchid chase last time out at Kempton in very impressive style and it looks like he will take all the beating and is my NAP of the day. With AL FEROF It's hard to see a novice winning a Victor Chandler especially with only two runs over fences under his belt. He won the Henry 8th Novice Chase at Ascot last time battling off For Non Stop who failed to frank the form next time out when beaten by Cue Card. the form from that race isnt the strongest and definitely not up to a race of this standard. FORPADYDEPLASTERER is an admirable sort and always runs his race but finds winning hard to come by. GAUVAIN doesnt look as good over 2 miles as 2 and a half and should come up short again here. WISHFULL THINKING was beaten by our selection last time out and with doubt's in the hobbs camp about him it is hard to see him reversing the form today. SOMERSBY doesnt look fast enough in a finish anymore for a 2 miler and his future surely lies over longer trips.
3:45 - My NB today is Martin Keighley's ALL FOR FREE who looked as if he was screaming out for 2 and a half miles when staying on like a train last time out at Sandown and he still gets in at a very low weight. TATENEN enjoys it round here but is very temperamental and if on a going day could win this race with ease (remember he was once sent off favourite for an Arkle). ZAYNAR falls under the same category and looked back to his best when winning last time out at this course but isnt sure to get his own way out in front today. NOLAND is dropped in trip after a valiant effort in the Lexus behind Synchronised but a return to his very best will see him take all the beating while the handicapper looks to have caught RENARD now. HECTOR'S CHOICE ran a very good race at Cheltenham last time behind Calgary Bay, a repeat of that will surely see another positive outcome. ALL FOR FREE is the very strong selection though.
4:20 - A Novice hurdle that is headed by Nicky Henderson's HADRIAN'S APPROACH who won here first time out while being very green, he will come on for that run and should take all the beating. GROVE PRIDE has run well in all his runs so far but is yet to get his head in front. THE PRETENDER is from the Paul Nicholls yard and should come on for his first run when sixth at Warwick. BE ALL MAN was behind Joseph Lister last time out and is considered especially if Joseph Lister runs well.
NAP - Finian's rainbow
NB - All for free
Thursday 19 January 2012
Taunton 19th January
7 races on a brilliant midweek card at Taunton today, which i shall try to evaluate all of them and hopefully pick some winners along the way, apologies for not writing a blog for 3 days have been pretty busy down my end but will try and pick it up again.
1:20 - DUALLA LORD ran a nice first race under rules at Chepstow behind Rev It Up (rated 129) but fell last time out in a chase at Cheltenham, which Grand Crus went on to win. NELSON'S BRIDGE goes over hurdles for the first time for Nicky Henderson. He won a Bumper at Bangor back in December but it could be argued that it was a pretty weak race, he however could be a fairly decent horse. THEATRICAL STAR is rated 117 and will let us know how strong the race is but if DUALLA LORD runs up to his chepstow form he should have no problem in sweeping him aside. SUNGLASSES has been beaten a neck and 4 lengths, he should run a good race yet again but will probably find a couple too strong. If DUALLA LORD turns up and runs his race then he should take all the beating here.
1:50 - The obvious selection here is Jeremy Scott's IFYOULETMEFINISH who last time was third behind Grumeti staying on very strongly at this track. He showed he could battle and even more importantly win when going in first time in a bumper at Uttoxeter. JAWHARY has been running against some better horses (losing to Darlan last time) and you would doubt there are any Darlan's in this field. ZEBRANO was a useful horse on the level and presuming he takes to hurdles Emma Lavelle's gelding shouldn't be far away. PEARL SWAN gets a 4 year old allowance all round and always ran with credit on the flat in France, again should be thereabouts but may be better for the run. PRIVATE STORY ran a good race first time out over hurdles and has some useful flat form, It's possible he will need this run though and may be best watched this time. IFYOULETMEFINISH is the NAP of the day though if he can build on his run behind Grumeti he should be the winner
2:20 - A small field here and a narrow favourite in the field is GEORGE NYMPTON who disappointed last time out but if you forgive that he looks in a nice vein of form. Rachael Green gets the best out of HE'S OUR LAD and is back on board today after missing 3 rides, a strong pace will suit him as he doesnt find as much off the bridle as maybe he should. ALPHA WAY looked to be progressing nicely but ran a stinker last time out when pulled up at Ludlow. Forgive that run and he has a real chance. TRIPLE BLUFF was Hunter Chasing last year but won very nicely at Taunton last time out under today's pilot. EMPRESS ORCHID must be respected from the Donald McCain yard but may just need softer ground to produce his best form, also a pointer that Jason Maguire has gone to Ludlow today. Im siding with HE'S OUR LAD here though.
2:50 - PAVILLON BLEU was caught at the line by Carrickmines here last time after running an honourable race. He seems to be the choice of Richard Johnson with LORD CREWE ridden by Tom O'Brien. It could just be that he would prefer it softer and may struggle today. Paul Nicholls has EXPRESS LEADER in this race and if you go back to his younger years he was beaten 8 lengths by a very useful horse in Shinrock Paddy at Cheltenham. CHAIN OF COMMAND looked to get his career back on track last time with a second at Stratford and may have needed that run. FOX APPEAL gets 7 pounds taken off his back thanks to very useful claimer Steven O'donovan (who is 2/3 on this horse). Im going to take FOX APPEAL in a hope that he does still have room for improvement as he is only 5.
3:20 - THIRD INTENTION has been running against much better opposition this year behind the likes of Brampour, drops in class here and could take all the beating if showing his best form. RANJAAN found the winning way last time out at Kempton but the form has been let down by the second being beat when odds on last week. DUNRAVEN STORM looked like a really useful individual at one time last year but since has disappointed a bit, today is his reappearance and will probably just need the run. DRUMSHAMBO has been running well this season and his efforts were finally rewarded with a win last time at this track, he may just find a few too strong though. NUMIDE is a very temperamental horse and you never know which one will turn up, however as of late hasnt filled you with confidence. PRINCE OF DREAMS is another that should find a few too good as he was behind DRUMSHAMBO last time out.
3:50 - I have a feeling that ROUGHAM may just prefer it round a sharper track and he may get his ways out in front today. MICHEAL FLIPS is an exciting novice but may be found out today. NOMECHEKI has the talent to win this race but you can never be sure which horse will turn up. FISTRAL BEACH looks too high in the handicap now while OUMEYADE isnt the force of old. THE COCKNEY MACKEM looks well handicapped and could be the one to trouble ROUGHAM the most in this field. You would imagine HOLMWOOD LEGEND is just preparing for the festival in March. I can see ROUGHAM get his head in front today, ahead of Twiston-Davies horse THE COCKNEY MACKEM
4:20 - DORSET NAGA is very well fancied by Rachael Green and she could well have a double on the cards today. PRINCELY PLAYER has to be respected after his first run. UN AMI has his first run today and market support should be noted. GEE HI returns from a very long layoff and is best watched though obviously has talent, his day will come though. RAINBOW HAZE has the experience and that will be strongly in his favour. DORSET NAGA is the selection today though.
nap - Ifyouletmefinish
nb - Rougham
1:20 - DUALLA LORD ran a nice first race under rules at Chepstow behind Rev It Up (rated 129) but fell last time out in a chase at Cheltenham, which Grand Crus went on to win. NELSON'S BRIDGE goes over hurdles for the first time for Nicky Henderson. He won a Bumper at Bangor back in December but it could be argued that it was a pretty weak race, he however could be a fairly decent horse. THEATRICAL STAR is rated 117 and will let us know how strong the race is but if DUALLA LORD runs up to his chepstow form he should have no problem in sweeping him aside. SUNGLASSES has been beaten a neck and 4 lengths, he should run a good race yet again but will probably find a couple too strong. If DUALLA LORD turns up and runs his race then he should take all the beating here.
1:50 - The obvious selection here is Jeremy Scott's IFYOULETMEFINISH who last time was third behind Grumeti staying on very strongly at this track. He showed he could battle and even more importantly win when going in first time in a bumper at Uttoxeter. JAWHARY has been running against some better horses (losing to Darlan last time) and you would doubt there are any Darlan's in this field. ZEBRANO was a useful horse on the level and presuming he takes to hurdles Emma Lavelle's gelding shouldn't be far away. PEARL SWAN gets a 4 year old allowance all round and always ran with credit on the flat in France, again should be thereabouts but may be better for the run. PRIVATE STORY ran a good race first time out over hurdles and has some useful flat form, It's possible he will need this run though and may be best watched this time. IFYOULETMEFINISH is the NAP of the day though if he can build on his run behind Grumeti he should be the winner
2:20 - A small field here and a narrow favourite in the field is GEORGE NYMPTON who disappointed last time out but if you forgive that he looks in a nice vein of form. Rachael Green gets the best out of HE'S OUR LAD and is back on board today after missing 3 rides, a strong pace will suit him as he doesnt find as much off the bridle as maybe he should. ALPHA WAY looked to be progressing nicely but ran a stinker last time out when pulled up at Ludlow. Forgive that run and he has a real chance. TRIPLE BLUFF was Hunter Chasing last year but won very nicely at Taunton last time out under today's pilot. EMPRESS ORCHID must be respected from the Donald McCain yard but may just need softer ground to produce his best form, also a pointer that Jason Maguire has gone to Ludlow today. Im siding with HE'S OUR LAD here though.
2:50 - PAVILLON BLEU was caught at the line by Carrickmines here last time after running an honourable race. He seems to be the choice of Richard Johnson with LORD CREWE ridden by Tom O'Brien. It could just be that he would prefer it softer and may struggle today. Paul Nicholls has EXPRESS LEADER in this race and if you go back to his younger years he was beaten 8 lengths by a very useful horse in Shinrock Paddy at Cheltenham. CHAIN OF COMMAND looked to get his career back on track last time with a second at Stratford and may have needed that run. FOX APPEAL gets 7 pounds taken off his back thanks to very useful claimer Steven O'donovan (who is 2/3 on this horse). Im going to take FOX APPEAL in a hope that he does still have room for improvement as he is only 5.
3:20 - THIRD INTENTION has been running against much better opposition this year behind the likes of Brampour, drops in class here and could take all the beating if showing his best form. RANJAAN found the winning way last time out at Kempton but the form has been let down by the second being beat when odds on last week. DUNRAVEN STORM looked like a really useful individual at one time last year but since has disappointed a bit, today is his reappearance and will probably just need the run. DRUMSHAMBO has been running well this season and his efforts were finally rewarded with a win last time at this track, he may just find a few too strong though. NUMIDE is a very temperamental horse and you never know which one will turn up, however as of late hasnt filled you with confidence. PRINCE OF DREAMS is another that should find a few too good as he was behind DRUMSHAMBO last time out.
3:50 - I have a feeling that ROUGHAM may just prefer it round a sharper track and he may get his ways out in front today. MICHEAL FLIPS is an exciting novice but may be found out today. NOMECHEKI has the talent to win this race but you can never be sure which horse will turn up. FISTRAL BEACH looks too high in the handicap now while OUMEYADE isnt the force of old. THE COCKNEY MACKEM looks well handicapped and could be the one to trouble ROUGHAM the most in this field. You would imagine HOLMWOOD LEGEND is just preparing for the festival in March. I can see ROUGHAM get his head in front today, ahead of Twiston-Davies horse THE COCKNEY MACKEM
4:20 - DORSET NAGA is very well fancied by Rachael Green and she could well have a double on the cards today. PRINCELY PLAYER has to be respected after his first run. UN AMI has his first run today and market support should be noted. GEE HI returns from a very long layoff and is best watched though obviously has talent, his day will come though. RAINBOW HAZE has the experience and that will be strongly in his favour. DORSET NAGA is the selection today though.
nap - Ifyouletmefinish
nb - Rougham
Sunday 15 January 2012
Kennedy Whip Ban
Will Kennedy and Swincombe Flame won yesterday's renewal of the Lanzarote hurdle at Kempton providing the same team with back to back wins in the race (won last year by James De Vassy). However it seems that the BHA have found another way to make themselves more 'important' than the race. Kennedy picked up a seven day ban for excessive use of the whip to get his mount up on the dying strides by a Nose. Kennedy was interviewed after the race and said these words "I either hit it two more times and win by a nostril or i dont and get beaten. Who can say i would have won without those two hits, its disappointing". He then went on to day "I'm not really one for hitting them but i missed the last and what do i tell the owners". Kennedy had to give up his £2500 prize money from the race. This comes in the same week as Robert Winston and Robert Cooper picked up their whip bans and shot the whip ban right back into the limelight after it had seemed to die down.
Onto today's racing and only Kempton on the all weather in the UK today after Kelso was abandoned, the National Hunt meeting at Navan still goes ahead where the talented So Young runs.
My tip of the day comes at Kempton however, LASER BLAZER goes in the 4:10 and after seeing his last run he would have entered many people's notebooks. Jim Crowley did relatively little on Jeremy Gask's gelding last time yet he still ran on to a more than respectable fifth at Lingfield. Adam Kirby gets the leg up today and the handicapper has dropped him a pound in the weights. The only doubt i could have in my mind is that he ventures into an unknown distance as he is stepped up a furlong in trip but his previous run suggests that he will relish the step up in trip. 10/1 looks a very generous price and is worth a very strong each way bet.
As always, Happy Punting
Saturday 14 January 2012
Kempton 14th January continued.
2:15 - Nick Gifford told punters to wait for EL PADRINO to go over fences but failed to convince with his jumping last time out but that was his first time over fences and should know a bit more about the game now. REBLIS has done nothing wrong this year at all but has gone up 17 pounds for his 2 wins, still not without a chance even with the extra weight on him. ONLY WITNESS won last time out at Ludlow and the Brendan Powell father and son team up with him and he could continue his winning ways here. MOLESKIN had some good form when younger but is more than difficult and rarely runs the same race, if putting his best foot forward could take all the beating but im siding with ONLY WITNESS here.
2:50 - (same write up as yesterday) A race filled with young improving horses and none improving faster than David Pipe's DECOY who ran an extraordinary race to win a conditional jockeys hurdle at cheltenham under the talented Conor O'Farrell. However last time out he was beaten by a fast improving Phillip Hobbs horse name FEATHERBRED LANE who this year has gone up 24 pounds in his last two runs but was very impressive last time out at Aintree. Paul Nicholls trains 2 in this race the first being a former Cheltenham Festival winner in AMERICAN TRILOGY who returns to hurdles after a disappointing time over fences, a return to his best hurdles form should see him go very close. DOMTALINE is the second Nicholls horse ridden by Nephew Harry Derham, he was very impressive at Chepstow but he ran into 2 very useful horses at haydock in Grandouet and Marsh Warbler, an improving kind and looks to be the Nicholls first string. BUENA VISTA usually saves his best for Cheltenham in March, OHIO GOLD has been tricky but has finally found the winning way, this might be too much of an ask for him though. KUILSRIVER is a horse i like and was in need of the run last time however i wouldnt expect him to be good enough to trouble the main protagonists here. ACT OF KALANISI goes for the in form Dr Richard Newland yard but may just need a bit more give in the ground and looks a bit short on his best form. LIGHTNING STRIKE has a 6 pound penalty and that should account for his chance with the improving SWINCOMBE FLAME looking a little short but is in off a low weight. My selection for the race is DOMTALINE who looks on the upgrade, EASTLAKE is another improving young horse but has a short break to overcome and it would be no surprise to see him run a big race.
3:20 - QUOTICA DE POYANS disappointed hugely last time at Newbury after coming into the race with a tall reputation and its not certain that this shorter trip will suit him, so its understandable to avoid him today. ALFIE SHERRIN does not appear the force he used to be but is lightly raced however has shown very little this year. SAFARI JOURNEY is over priced in my opinion, the Phillip Hobbs horse usually comes up with a win every now and then and has dropped down to a winning mark. I would be encouraged to take a gamble on him today at a price. FIX THE RIB was a very good horse back in his day but injuries have kept him out and doesnt look the force of old. CRUCHAIN has a low weight and can run well at Kempton (close 3rd in this race last year). But it would be no surprise to see SAFARI JOURNEY go close today.
3:50 J'ADHERE is a very temperamental horse and cant really be trusted to string two runs together, even after an impressive win at Taunton last time, LUCAINDUBAI looks very much the one to beat in this race and has been running well without getting his head in front. Today could finally be the day the Evan Williams horse wins. Gary Moore seems to be confident about NEW CODE'S chances and if you can forgive his last run could very well get a place though its hard to see him getting his head in front. DREAM ESTEEM is another that has been running well without success and is the biggest threat to LUCAINDUBAI today.
2:50 - (same write up as yesterday) A race filled with young improving horses and none improving faster than David Pipe's DECOY who ran an extraordinary race to win a conditional jockeys hurdle at cheltenham under the talented Conor O'Farrell. However last time out he was beaten by a fast improving Phillip Hobbs horse name FEATHERBRED LANE who this year has gone up 24 pounds in his last two runs but was very impressive last time out at Aintree. Paul Nicholls trains 2 in this race the first being a former Cheltenham Festival winner in AMERICAN TRILOGY who returns to hurdles after a disappointing time over fences, a return to his best hurdles form should see him go very close. DOMTALINE is the second Nicholls horse ridden by Nephew Harry Derham, he was very impressive at Chepstow but he ran into 2 very useful horses at haydock in Grandouet and Marsh Warbler, an improving kind and looks to be the Nicholls first string. BUENA VISTA usually saves his best for Cheltenham in March, OHIO GOLD has been tricky but has finally found the winning way, this might be too much of an ask for him though. KUILSRIVER is a horse i like and was in need of the run last time however i wouldnt expect him to be good enough to trouble the main protagonists here. ACT OF KALANISI goes for the in form Dr Richard Newland yard but may just need a bit more give in the ground and looks a bit short on his best form. LIGHTNING STRIKE has a 6 pound penalty and that should account for his chance with the improving SWINCOMBE FLAME looking a little short but is in off a low weight. My selection for the race is DOMTALINE who looks on the upgrade, EASTLAKE is another improving young horse but has a short break to overcome and it would be no surprise to see him run a big race.
3:20 - QUOTICA DE POYANS disappointed hugely last time at Newbury after coming into the race with a tall reputation and its not certain that this shorter trip will suit him, so its understandable to avoid him today. ALFIE SHERRIN does not appear the force he used to be but is lightly raced however has shown very little this year. SAFARI JOURNEY is over priced in my opinion, the Phillip Hobbs horse usually comes up with a win every now and then and has dropped down to a winning mark. I would be encouraged to take a gamble on him today at a price. FIX THE RIB was a very good horse back in his day but injuries have kept him out and doesnt look the force of old. CRUCHAIN has a low weight and can run well at Kempton (close 3rd in this race last year). But it would be no surprise to see SAFARI JOURNEY go close today.
3:50 J'ADHERE is a very temperamental horse and cant really be trusted to string two runs together, even after an impressive win at Taunton last time, LUCAINDUBAI looks very much the one to beat in this race and has been running well without getting his head in front. Today could finally be the day the Evan Williams horse wins. Gary Moore seems to be confident about NEW CODE'S chances and if you can forgive his last run could very well get a place though its hard to see him getting his head in front. DREAM ESTEEM is another that has been running well without success and is the biggest threat to LUCAINDUBAI today.
Kempton 14th January
12:30 - MONTEGONIAN travelled well for a 100/1 shot for a long way last time out over course and distance behind Ranjaan. However he may be best watched for the time being, Phillip Hobbs has a high class flat recruit in SADLER'S RISK and he should be thereabouts if making a successful transition to the National Hunt game. STATE SENATOR is another making the switch to Hurdles from the Flat, He went off some short prices for his efforts on the flat when trained by Sir Mark Prescott but never fulfilled his potential and also may be best watched for the moment. DUBAWI DANCER is my selection for this race, won his first hurdle at Doncaster by 7 lengths (with the 2nd coming out and winning the other day)
1:05 - Only the 3 horses go to post for this but its definitely not short on talent here, MENORAH is the short priced favourite but his jumping is far from perfect, even when winning last time out at Taunton. There is no doubt he has bags of talent but his jumping could leave him vulnerable to KUMBESHWAR here who has looked a very impressive Novice this season and its hard not to be impressed by him. ALASI is the third horse in the field but will be better over two and a half miles and should be found out over this shorter trip, however she has done nothing wrong over fences and gets a small weight allowance.
1:40 - HIT THE HEADLINES bounce back from his poor Newbury run with a win at Huntingdon last time, although does have to give weight all round here and can be opposed. KING'S SUNSET is a point to point winner and was fancied on his first start under rules but was comprehensively beaten on debut when fancied, presuming he will come on for that run 16/1 doesnt look a bad each way price. CAPTAIN SUNSHINE is yet to win but has done nothing wrong, getting 6 pounds from the Nicky Henderson horse looks to have the beating of him and will surely be involved in the finish. Im going to take the each way value on KING'S SUNSET in a hope that he comes on for the run last time out.
1:05 - Only the 3 horses go to post for this but its definitely not short on talent here, MENORAH is the short priced favourite but his jumping is far from perfect, even when winning last time out at Taunton. There is no doubt he has bags of talent but his jumping could leave him vulnerable to KUMBESHWAR here who has looked a very impressive Novice this season and its hard not to be impressed by him. ALASI is the third horse in the field but will be better over two and a half miles and should be found out over this shorter trip, however she has done nothing wrong over fences and gets a small weight allowance.
1:40 - HIT THE HEADLINES bounce back from his poor Newbury run with a win at Huntingdon last time, although does have to give weight all round here and can be opposed. KING'S SUNSET is a point to point winner and was fancied on his first start under rules but was comprehensively beaten on debut when fancied, presuming he will come on for that run 16/1 doesnt look a bad each way price. CAPTAIN SUNSHINE is yet to win but has done nothing wrong, getting 6 pounds from the Nicky Henderson horse looks to have the beating of him and will surely be involved in the finish. Im going to take the each way value on KING'S SUNSET in a hope that he comes on for the run last time out.
Friday 13 January 2012
Friday 13th!
Not expecting too much today due to my birthday being today on Friday 13th, but i shall soldier on through it. Lack of stories in the racing world today except the Robert Winston whip ban, but i spoke about the whip ban yesterday so i have given myself the less than easy job of dissecting the Lanzarote Hurdle on Saturday at Kempton.
A race filled with young improving horses and none improving faster than David Pipe's DECOY who ran an extraordinary race to win a conditional jockeys hurdle at cheltenham under the talented Conor O'Farrell. However last time out he was beaten by a fast improving Phillip Hobbs horse name FEATHERBRED LANE who this year has gone up 24 pounds in his last two runs but was very impressive last time out at Aintree. Paul Nicholls trains 2 in this race the first being a former Cheltenham Festival winner in AMERICAN TRILOGY who returns to hurdles after a disappointing time over fences, a return to his best hurdles form should see him go very close. DOMTALINE is the second Nicholls horse ridden by Nephew Harry Derham, he was very impressive at Chepstow but he ran into 2 very useful horses at haydock in Grandouet and Marsh Warbler, an improving kind and looks to be the Nicholls first string. BUENA VISTA usually saves his best for Cheltenham in March, OHIO GOLD has been tricky but has finally found the winning way, this might be too much of an ask for him though. KUILSRIVER is a horse i like and was in need of the run last time however i wouldnt expect him to be good enough to trouble the main protagonists here. ACT OF KALANISI goes for the in form Dr Richard Newland yard but may just need a bit more give in the ground and looks a bit short on his best form. LIGHTNING STRIKE has a 6 pound penalty and that should account for his chance with the improving SWINCOMBE FLAME looking a little short but is in off a low weight. My selection for the race is DOMTALINE who looks on the upgrade, EASTLAKE is another improving young horse but has a short break to overcome and it would be no surprise to see him run a big race.
For my bet today we will have to wait until the last race at Lingfield for a horse called Sherjawy who returned to form last time with a nice 2nd place effort. If returning to his best form then you will be counting your money turning for home however has dropped down the weights and the years of racing may be catching up with him. He showed last time he has lost none of his enthusiasm and looks like a good bet at 5/1 in a weaker contest.
Happy Punting :)
A race filled with young improving horses and none improving faster than David Pipe's DECOY who ran an extraordinary race to win a conditional jockeys hurdle at cheltenham under the talented Conor O'Farrell. However last time out he was beaten by a fast improving Phillip Hobbs horse name FEATHERBRED LANE who this year has gone up 24 pounds in his last two runs but was very impressive last time out at Aintree. Paul Nicholls trains 2 in this race the first being a former Cheltenham Festival winner in AMERICAN TRILOGY who returns to hurdles after a disappointing time over fences, a return to his best hurdles form should see him go very close. DOMTALINE is the second Nicholls horse ridden by Nephew Harry Derham, he was very impressive at Chepstow but he ran into 2 very useful horses at haydock in Grandouet and Marsh Warbler, an improving kind and looks to be the Nicholls first string. BUENA VISTA usually saves his best for Cheltenham in March, OHIO GOLD has been tricky but has finally found the winning way, this might be too much of an ask for him though. KUILSRIVER is a horse i like and was in need of the run last time however i wouldnt expect him to be good enough to trouble the main protagonists here. ACT OF KALANISI goes for the in form Dr Richard Newland yard but may just need a bit more give in the ground and looks a bit short on his best form. LIGHTNING STRIKE has a 6 pound penalty and that should account for his chance with the improving SWINCOMBE FLAME looking a little short but is in off a low weight. My selection for the race is DOMTALINE who looks on the upgrade, EASTLAKE is another improving young horse but has a short break to overcome and it would be no surprise to see him run a big race.
For my bet today we will have to wait until the last race at Lingfield for a horse called Sherjawy who returned to form last time with a nice 2nd place effort. If returning to his best form then you will be counting your money turning for home however has dropped down the weights and the years of racing may be catching up with him. He showed last time he has lost none of his enthusiasm and looks like a good bet at 5/1 in a weaker contest.
Happy Punting :)
Thursday 12 January 2012
52 Day Ban For Robert Cooper
Only one real talking point today and that is the huge ban for amateur jockey Robert Cooper. He picked up the ridiculous 52 day ban on New Years Eve for striking Elton Fox with his whip 23 times in the backhand position. The BHA have said he did not give his mount time to respond on 12 separate occasions, despite the huge ban he still got Elton Fox up to win by about a length and a half. Many people in the racing world have been outraged that a jockey that has lifted a horse to win should get such a ban. Cooper's ban comes days after Richard Johnson picked up a 2 day ban for his late rally to win on Carrickmines at Taunton. It seemed the whip rule debate had died down a little however this throws it back into the fire. We shall have to wait if Cooper appeals against his ban.
Yesterday's lucky 15 wasnt too lucky with Taikoo making a bad mistake and dropping out of contention half way through the race, clearly something amiss with him, it was reported that Theology made a mistake 3 out just when moving in contention and Brian Hughes reported he lost his action. I wouldnt be giving up with them two just yet, especially Theology. Mountainous was an impressive winner at FFos Las making all the running and jumping perfectly, it looked like he was about to be swallowed up turning for home but a strong Sam Twiston Davies kept him up to his work and he ended up winning going away, it appears the handicapper hasn't caught him yet. Azulada bay maybe needed a bit more help in the jumping department from jockey Chris Timmons however that could just be me talking through my pocket.
Today a horse runs at Fontwell which i have been waiting to reappear for about 2 months, the horse is called Makethe Mostofnow and is in the third race. From the Evan Williams yard that hasnt been training too many winners as of late but his yard's last two runs have been encouraging. This is the only horse Williams is bringing over from Wales to run at Fontwell today and it seems they have handpicked this race (after being entered in many races and being pulled out). Disappointingly only a 6/4 shot but i cant see this horse lose today and his first win at FFos Las looked really impressive and may suggest he has a little bit about him. His first race has turned out to be a fairly hot contest with Rev It Up and Paul Nicholls' Dualla Lord in front of him albeit 25 lengths but the run can be forgiven.
Thanks for reading and as always, Happy Punting
Yesterday's lucky 15 wasnt too lucky with Taikoo making a bad mistake and dropping out of contention half way through the race, clearly something amiss with him, it was reported that Theology made a mistake 3 out just when moving in contention and Brian Hughes reported he lost his action. I wouldnt be giving up with them two just yet, especially Theology. Mountainous was an impressive winner at FFos Las making all the running and jumping perfectly, it looked like he was about to be swallowed up turning for home but a strong Sam Twiston Davies kept him up to his work and he ended up winning going away, it appears the handicapper hasn't caught him yet. Azulada bay maybe needed a bit more help in the jumping department from jockey Chris Timmons however that could just be me talking through my pocket.
Today a horse runs at Fontwell which i have been waiting to reappear for about 2 months, the horse is called Makethe Mostofnow and is in the third race. From the Evan Williams yard that hasnt been training too many winners as of late but his yard's last two runs have been encouraging. This is the only horse Williams is bringing over from Wales to run at Fontwell today and it seems they have handpicked this race (after being entered in many races and being pulled out). Disappointingly only a 6/4 shot but i cant see this horse lose today and his first win at FFos Las looked really impressive and may suggest he has a little bit about him. His first race has turned out to be a fairly hot contest with Rev It Up and Paul Nicholls' Dualla Lord in front of him albeit 25 lengths but the run can be forgiven.
Thanks for reading and as always, Happy Punting
Wednesday 11 January 2012
Frankel King Of The World
So it's official, Frankel is the best in the world after Timeform ratings came out yesterday, the question all year has been 'Who is better Frankel or the Australian horse Black Caviar'. With all British and Australian sides split both defending their corners and the possible chance of a race at Royal Ascot next year competed between the two to savour, it seems this is the first bit of solid evidence that puts Frankel firmly on top. French horse Cirrus Des Aigles and the emphatic Arc winner Danedream couldnt be split on 128 in behind. Canford Cliffs, Rewilding, Excelebration, Nathaniel and Dream ahead also made the top 10.
Onto today's racing and proper jumps racing now with more than one meeting held at Doncaster and Ffos Las with Fairyhouse supporting in Ireland. I've had a Lucky 15 bet today consisting of 3 shorter priced horses and a double figure price to boost the value.
1:05 Doncaster - Very interesting race but my selection for this is classy flat horse and new hurdling recruit for Saleem Gollings, Theology. The favourite from the Nicky Henderson yard looks a tough horse to beat and Andrew Tinkler seems to fancy him however assuming Theology takes to hurdles he should be in a different class.
12:45 FFos Las - Taikoo looks very much the one to beat, didnt seem to get the three miles first time out over hurdles over at Doncaster, dropped slightly in trip and has the softer ground he relishes it looks to be a nice opening for Taikoo to open his account over hurdles.
1:50 FFos Las - Mountainous has been raised 12 pounds for his last win at the track although he does very much look a horse on the upgrade in the Twiston-Davies yard. excels in softer ground and came a very good 3rd behind an exciting horse of Tim Vaughan's called Rev It Up.
3:25 Doncaster - Azaluda bay is the horse that will give the bet some value, he is a pretty consistent type who every time he drops to a mark like today's seems to pop up with a win (although only 2 wins to his name) and a very good conditional jockey in Chris Timmons takes 7 pounds off his back today. Can see him going very well today.
bet of the day is Theology, Happy Punting.
Onto today's racing and proper jumps racing now with more than one meeting held at Doncaster and Ffos Las with Fairyhouse supporting in Ireland. I've had a Lucky 15 bet today consisting of 3 shorter priced horses and a double figure price to boost the value.
1:05 Doncaster - Very interesting race but my selection for this is classy flat horse and new hurdling recruit for Saleem Gollings, Theology. The favourite from the Nicky Henderson yard looks a tough horse to beat and Andrew Tinkler seems to fancy him however assuming Theology takes to hurdles he should be in a different class.
12:45 FFos Las - Taikoo looks very much the one to beat, didnt seem to get the three miles first time out over hurdles over at Doncaster, dropped slightly in trip and has the softer ground he relishes it looks to be a nice opening for Taikoo to open his account over hurdles.
1:50 FFos Las - Mountainous has been raised 12 pounds for his last win at the track although he does very much look a horse on the upgrade in the Twiston-Davies yard. excels in softer ground and came a very good 3rd behind an exciting horse of Tim Vaughan's called Rev It Up.
3:25 Doncaster - Azaluda bay is the horse that will give the bet some value, he is a pretty consistent type who every time he drops to a mark like today's seems to pop up with a win (although only 2 wins to his name) and a very good conditional jockey in Chris Timmons takes 7 pounds off his back today. Can see him going very well today.
bet of the day is Theology, Happy Punting.
Tuesday 10 January 2012
Dont Push It Retired
Id like to start off today by wishing 2010 Grand National hero Dont Push It a very happy retirement, He was sent off the 10/1 Joint Favourite for the race (backed in from 20/1). As im sure everyone remembers he is to this day Tony Mccoy's only Grand National winner and was the horse that ended the hoodoo.
From careers ending to careers just starting to bloom, we saw a very nice prospect in the same colours as Don't Push It (owned by J P Mcmanus) named Darlan from the Nicky Henderson yard under a very cheeky ride from Barry Geraghty. The unbeaten 5 year old beat Ruby Walsh and Jump City by half a length without Geraghty moving a muscle as Ruby earned his riding fee in second. It was 15 lengths back to 3rd Giordano Bruno who led for most of the race and was still out in front when turning in. He ran a very promising race after returning from a lay-off of 1010 days and was not knocked around by Richard Johnson after he was beaten.
Onto racing today, my bet of the day looks to be Edgebury in the 1:40 at Leicester. Everything seems to be in his favour today including the ground which is fast on the chase course but soft on the hurdle course, no surprises that the meeting is at Leicester with that going difference. In his first chase he finished a very respectable 3rd behind an Ed De Giles horse name Ajzal who goes in the 2:40 from the same course. Possibly a nice double there. Edgebury does however have to travel an extra half a mile but he should get that no problem after a 3rd over a furlong shorter a while back over hurdles. Currently priced up at 5/2 by most firms, i would expect that price to go fairly quickly and is definitely worth a small £5 win on it.
Happy Punting, and will try my best to put up another blog tomorrow
From careers ending to careers just starting to bloom, we saw a very nice prospect in the same colours as Don't Push It (owned by J P Mcmanus) named Darlan from the Nicky Henderson yard under a very cheeky ride from Barry Geraghty. The unbeaten 5 year old beat Ruby Walsh and Jump City by half a length without Geraghty moving a muscle as Ruby earned his riding fee in second. It was 15 lengths back to 3rd Giordano Bruno who led for most of the race and was still out in front when turning in. He ran a very promising race after returning from a lay-off of 1010 days and was not knocked around by Richard Johnson after he was beaten.
Onto racing today, my bet of the day looks to be Edgebury in the 1:40 at Leicester. Everything seems to be in his favour today including the ground which is fast on the chase course but soft on the hurdle course, no surprises that the meeting is at Leicester with that going difference. In his first chase he finished a very respectable 3rd behind an Ed De Giles horse name Ajzal who goes in the 2:40 from the same course. Possibly a nice double there. Edgebury does however have to travel an extra half a mile but he should get that no problem after a 3rd over a furlong shorter a while back over hurdles. Currently priced up at 5/2 by most firms, i would expect that price to go fairly quickly and is definitely worth a small £5 win on it.
Happy Punting, and will try my best to put up another blog tomorrow
Monday 9 January 2012
King George and victor chandler
First post and I shall talk about a race a while ago on boxing day, of course I refer to the King George at Kempton, the feeling of cheering home Kauto Star can not possibly be put into words as he breaks Desert Orchid's record in the race by landing his 5th win in the King George. However for me there is an underlying factor, not the terrible news of Master Minded sustaining a career threatening injury (to which I wish him a speedy recovery) but my point is about Somersby who seemingly cruised into the home straight and weakened. But it seems there is more to it than meets the eye, if you watch carefully it appears that Somersby's saddle slipped, not forward but backwards towards his hind legs. This happens just after the back straight before they turn for home. In this light we should be praising jockey Dominic Elsworth for remarkably staying aboard the horse to finish a more than respectable fourth.
Onto future racing and the victor chandler chase at ascot, I find it hard that there is any value in backing al ferof (a novice) at 5/2 after his form from the Henry 8th novice chase from sandown hasn't really sparkled with for non stop (2nd by half a length) comprehensively beaten by cue card at Newbury. If Nicky Henderson has him right the winner could well be last years Arkle runner up finians rainbow, after making a terrible mistake at Kempton in the desert orchid chase it looked his chance was all but gone, however under a more than cool Barry Geraghty and a strong late finish he got up to catch wishful thinking (who made an identical mistake at the same fence) just after the last fence with last years grand annual winner and haldon gold cup third Oiseau de nuit back just out of the placings in 3rd. On that form and no Master Minded it seems Finians Rainbow is the one to beat.
Onto future racing and the victor chandler chase at ascot, I find it hard that there is any value in backing al ferof (a novice) at 5/2 after his form from the Henry 8th novice chase from sandown hasn't really sparkled with for non stop (2nd by half a length) comprehensively beaten by cue card at Newbury. If Nicky Henderson has him right the winner could well be last years Arkle runner up finians rainbow, after making a terrible mistake at Kempton in the desert orchid chase it looked his chance was all but gone, however under a more than cool Barry Geraghty and a strong late finish he got up to catch wishful thinking (who made an identical mistake at the same fence) just after the last fence with last years grand annual winner and haldon gold cup third Oiseau de nuit back just out of the placings in 3rd. On that form and no Master Minded it seems Finians Rainbow is the one to beat.
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