Its back to the flat season as that takes centre stage today with Doncaster and Kempton, not forgetting the World Cup later on with So You Think looking a strong challenger for Aidan O'Brien. But big fields today so lets crack on with the racing.
2:05 - Doncaster - Spring Mile
As always the Spring Mile starts off the Flat season and like every year it looks a real easy race to dissect. Richard Fahey is treble handed here today with KAY GEE BE, KYLLACHY STAR and ARABIAN SPIRIT. The latter two have claimers on board with will only help them today but the first string is the first mentioned. KAY GEE BE looks to have an outstanding chance today even though (like most others) its his first run of the year. He seems to run well fresh, he has never been out of the first 3 after more than a 60 day lay off so is one to really put in the note books today. CAPTAIN BERTIE was Pricewise this morning however he hasnt shown much liking for the big field handicaps so far, saying that if he has progressed well into a 4 year old he could take all the beating. Joe Fanning won the all weather jockeys title yesterday and he rides CROWN COUNSEL today who will be one of the race fit horses after a spin round Kempton where he did look in need of a run and will strip alot fitter than last time out. REVE DE NUIT had KINGSCROFT behind him last time when giving him weight, he gets a pound from his rival today and Pat Smullen coming over to take the ride is a huge positive. He is better on the all weather though it looks. SHAMDARLEY is an ultra consistent type who always runs his race, but it is possible he will need the run. REDVERS was 3rd over a furlong shorter here last year and tackles a mile for the first time, if he steps up for the the extra furlong he could be there mixing it in the finish. One who will have no trouble getting the trip is the Dave O'Meara trained MONT RAS who comes off the longest layoff of the race, though he is a 5 year old he is one of the most unexposed ones in the field. He may just need it today though. SNOW BAY just seemed a bit short of the best in the big handicaps on last years form and LEVIATHAN is another that looks a bit short of the top ones here. WEAPON OF CHOICE is another consistent performer but he is yet to have a good crack in the big handicaps. Preference today is for the first mentioned KAY GEE BE for Richard Fahey.
2:40 - Doncaster - Cammidge Trophy
BANNOCK ran a good enough race first time out this year at Lingfield to come third, for that run he will come on no end and last year was a very tough 2 year old. It's hard to rule him out today. WAFFLE was second to Deacon Blues in the Wokingham when giving him weight, a reproduction of that form will see him very close, but he lost his way at the back end of last year. ROYAL ROCK also has form with Deacon Blues and is the highest rated in the field after winning a group 3 at Ascot. He isnt getting any younger however but has gone well fresh before. Dean Ivory is confident that SIRIUS PROSPECT can make it into a Group 1 performer by the end of the year, i think i will have to prove himself to run well fresh today and is opposed. MAYSON could be his biggest challenger and represents strong connections, he was only a neck behind the favourite in his last outing and today gets 3 pounds. Surely that is enough to reverse the form. He should be bang there with a chance. THE CHEKA re-found himself last year with some solid performances, more is needed today though. INTERNATIONALDEBUT has been running really well in Dubai when second over the 6 furlongs there, as long as the trip doesnt have too much of an effect on him he should be mixing it at the end. Another who has been in Dubai is last years winner JIMMY STYLES, he won this for me last year at fancy odds and i cant find any reason to oppose him again today. He runs well at Doncaster and is definitely good enough to win the race. Rated a pound higher than last year and off the same racing weight he is the strongest bet of the day at 16/1.
3:15 - Doncaster - William Hill Lincoln Heritage handicap
The main event today with 22 going down to post and all 22 with chances. ETON FOREVER has been favourite for a long time and has been targeted at this race since winning on this card last year. Like last year Neil Callan takes the ride, he does seem to love it here with only 2 runs and coming first and second both times. He does have to overcome a layoff today and others are preferred. There is strong support behind EDINBURGH KNIGHT from the stable. He landed a massive Handicap at Ascot last year so will handle the hustle and bustle of the Lincoln. SMARTY SOCKS is an admirable type who always runs his heart out, but he may just be better over 7 furlongs than the mile. I fancied FURY until i saw his price this week and Pricewise has shortened it again. last year he was very disappointing and has been gelded since then, you would still have to be brave to back a horse who hasnt beaten a rival home in his last 3 runs. BARREN BROOK gets in at the bottom of the weights and has been backed this morning for each way money. He was in fine form last summer but it seems he does take a while to get going through the season. BRAE HILL hasnt won over further than 7 furlongs but knows what the big fields are about. MIA'S BOY is entering the veteran stage of his career but has lost none of his hunger for the game on the evidence of his last runs, he never seems to perform at his best in this race though which is a worry. STEVIE THUNDER was running over hurdles not too long ago, but has been fantastic since coming back to the flat. A good each way contender today. COCOZZA has never ran outside of Ireland and i cant see him winning a race like this with his lack of experience and on what he has done so far. MAN OF ACTION and START RIGHT are the two Godolphin horses who have to be mentioned, you can forgive the former's latest run as he never got a run in the Cambridgeshire, there should be no worries about that today and the latter has been running well at Meydan since his switch to Saeed Bin Suroor. We are going for a big priced horse today in DUBAI DYNAMO who knows all about these handicaps and believe it or not there is a bit of confidence behind him from the stable. He has run well on his two returns this year (the first was far too short for him) and he is a better horse on the turf than on the all weather.
We are going to divert our attention over to Meydan now
2:45 - Meydan
OPINION POLL is the class act of the race (from the English aspect anyway) but was beaten by stable mate FOX HUNT last time out who is unbeaten since joining the stable. The former will strip much fitter for that run however and should reverse the order. MIKHAIL GLINKA has been running well lately but will need to step up again to land this race. It would be lovely to see KASBAH BLISS win this in his veteran years, but he does look up against it and a place may be his best chance. BARBICAN did nothing wrong last year and deserves his chance in this company, he is the selection for the race. Note that trainer reports he has travelled over very well.
4:00 - Meydan
MARGOT DID flies the flag for england today and will be much better for her run first time out, but she was never really in it that day and will have to improve no end for the run. I dont know much about JOY AND FUN if im honest but he is fancied (like every other horse in the field) so i cant really comment too much on his chance. One i can comment on is SOLE POWER who is the selection for the race after just getting touched off last time by INVINCIBLE ASH. Johnny Murtagh's race will be much fitter for the run and should take all the beating.
6:00 - Meydan
CIRRUS DES AIGLES won the Champion Stakes last year but wasn't himself when he ran last time out back in France, improvement should see him close. Johnny Murtagh was really looking forward to riding the unbeaten BEATEN UP who takes a step up in class today. His biggest threat could be Aidan O'Brien's ST NICHOLAS ABBEY who won well at the Breeders Cup, but im going for BEATEN UP to remain unbeaten.
6:40 - Meydan
A ridiculous amount of prize money here just for a horse race but i wouldnt turn it down. SO YOU THINK was disappointing in America when only managing 6th. Excuses were available then as he had been on the go a long time. The surface shouldnt be a problem for him at all. The Japanese horse SMART FALCON is very strongly fancied back in his own country but they would fancy a donkey in this if it was running and from Japan. In fairness though the horse hasnt done anything wrong whatsoever. We are going for the Breeders Cup classic runner up in GAME ON DUDE who loves this surface and should go close if he shows his best. Chantal Sutherland takes the ride again rightly after the cracker she gave him in the Breeders Cup.
I hope you enjoy today's racing and i hope there are a few decent priced winners above.
Happy Punting
Saturday 31 March 2012
Saturday 24 March 2012
Winter Derby Day
We found a winner earlier in the week with Pinerolo and another Sue Smith winner with Dartford Warbler. We would have had 3 in a lucky 15 but we chose the wrong Sue Smith horse in the last race, but hey we made a tidy profit. I stuck with the trainer yesterday and it paid off with all 3 of hers winning at sedgefield (thank you Mr Mccoy). her record lately is incredible, only one horse in her last 6 runners has been beat (and even that was by her own horse), to say she is in form is an understatement. So for that reason we have to tip up all three of her's today at Kelso.
2:30 - Brother Scott
3:30 - Shadrack
4:05 - Highrate
I'd also like to add that its great to see Ryan Mania back in the saddle after he hung up his boots a while back and is riding winners left right and centre. But its Lingfield that take centre stage today with the Winter Derby.
Winter Derby - Plenty of horses with chances today and the market is wide open, Premio Loco is obviously the class act but this isnt his best trip and he carries a penalty. Junoob owes his connections nothing after being picked up from a claimer, if he continues his improvement he will be right there when it counts. Like the first mentioned Cai Shen has his first run of the year here today and others are preferred. One that will be fit is Soorah however. He is my pick today, he blew away the cobwebs when last of 8 at Meydan but then bounced back in fantastic style with a win on the same track, from his form it looks very much as if he enjoys the Lingfield surface and should take all the beating today.
2:40 - Newbury - Kentford grey lady clearly brings the best form to the table but she is fresh from a run at Cheltenham and may need a longer break. Cue to Cue is a consistent type but will need to step up on her game were she to land this prize today. Heather Royal is a strong each way bet and id be surprised were she not to make the frame today but may find one or two too good. Tante Sisse is the selection for today, a hard pulling mare usually but got her confidence up with a straight forward win against lesser opposition last time at Doncaster after going close 3 times before that. Tante Sisse to land it today.
Im going to have to cut this short as im going point to pointing today and am in a bit of a rush, i hope there are a few winners above for you and as always, Happy Punting.
2:30 - Brother Scott
3:30 - Shadrack
4:05 - Highrate
I'd also like to add that its great to see Ryan Mania back in the saddle after he hung up his boots a while back and is riding winners left right and centre. But its Lingfield that take centre stage today with the Winter Derby.
Winter Derby - Plenty of horses with chances today and the market is wide open, Premio Loco is obviously the class act but this isnt his best trip and he carries a penalty. Junoob owes his connections nothing after being picked up from a claimer, if he continues his improvement he will be right there when it counts. Like the first mentioned Cai Shen has his first run of the year here today and others are preferred. One that will be fit is Soorah however. He is my pick today, he blew away the cobwebs when last of 8 at Meydan but then bounced back in fantastic style with a win on the same track, from his form it looks very much as if he enjoys the Lingfield surface and should take all the beating today.
2:40 - Newbury - Kentford grey lady clearly brings the best form to the table but she is fresh from a run at Cheltenham and may need a longer break. Cue to Cue is a consistent type but will need to step up on her game were she to land this prize today. Heather Royal is a strong each way bet and id be surprised were she not to make the frame today but may find one or two too good. Tante Sisse is the selection for today, a hard pulling mare usually but got her confidence up with a straight forward win against lesser opposition last time at Doncaster after going close 3 times before that. Tante Sisse to land it today.
Im going to have to cut this short as im going point to pointing today and am in a bit of a rush, i hope there are a few winners above for you and as always, Happy Punting.
Thursday 22 March 2012
Sue Smith Day!!
For those of you who read my blog yesterday may have realised that one i was very keen on is running today, that horse is BE MY LIGHT. Last night you could have got 5/1 best price but this morning you will get no better than 7/2 and its shortening the whole time. He has been stepped up in distance only an extended furlong however but this is a weaker race than the one at Newbury the last day. Diarmuid O'Regan takes the ride again today and claims a valuable 10 pounds. Good ground wont be a problem for him today and the course should be right up his street.
One that i may have mentioned before is a Sue Smith horse called PINEROLO who i have waited for about 3 months to see him again. Last time out was his first time in a handicap and was beaten 14 lengths running on at the end of the day. That day in my opinion wasnt Henry Oliver's finest hour and Shane Byrne gets the leg up today which also allows him to take off 3 pounds thanks to his allowance. He may also be one for the future as he is a gigantic horse who will jump a fence. The two i have mentioned so far i have in a double and singles.
Sue Smith takes 6 runners to Carlisle today and it could just be she is treating today like her Saturday where she sends the best she has out. Its interesting as she rarely takes more than 2 to a midweek meeting if that, to take 6 to one meeting very much catches the attention. I have made a lucky 15 out of 4 of her horses, the bet is as follows.
Dartford Warbler - Hasnt shown much so far but has been running against some good horses in the names of Make a Track, Cotton Mill and Absinthe. Last time out behind Absinthe was definitely his best run, only beaten 16 lengths on that day. Another reason for believing there will be more to come first time in a Handicap is the fact that he is a half brother to Champion Hurdle winner Rock on Ruby, if he is half as good as him then he will win this at a canter. Interesting runner.
Whiskey Ridge - One of Sue's more fancied runners today and he has come on leaps and bounds in his last two runs hitting the crossbar and everything around it. The ground today will be right up his street today, so will the distance as he is stepped up a furlong today and that looks as if it will suit after staying on last time but running out of time. One of Sue's better chances today.
Pinerolo - I think i have said enough about this horse above, probably the best chance of a winner today.
Twice Lucky - Probably the dodgiest one in the lucky 15 as he is yet to win a race but has run some good races. He seems to love the better ground whenever he gets on it which is what we are dealing with today. This looks a golden opportunity for him to get off the mark, after last time he was running a brilliant race when unseating his jockey 5 from home. Fantastic opportunity to get off the mark today.
hopefully there are some winners amongst them today.
NAP - Pinerolo
NB - Be My Light
One that i may have mentioned before is a Sue Smith horse called PINEROLO who i have waited for about 3 months to see him again. Last time out was his first time in a handicap and was beaten 14 lengths running on at the end of the day. That day in my opinion wasnt Henry Oliver's finest hour and Shane Byrne gets the leg up today which also allows him to take off 3 pounds thanks to his allowance. He may also be one for the future as he is a gigantic horse who will jump a fence. The two i have mentioned so far i have in a double and singles.
Sue Smith takes 6 runners to Carlisle today and it could just be she is treating today like her Saturday where she sends the best she has out. Its interesting as she rarely takes more than 2 to a midweek meeting if that, to take 6 to one meeting very much catches the attention. I have made a lucky 15 out of 4 of her horses, the bet is as follows.
Dartford Warbler - Hasnt shown much so far but has been running against some good horses in the names of Make a Track, Cotton Mill and Absinthe. Last time out behind Absinthe was definitely his best run, only beaten 16 lengths on that day. Another reason for believing there will be more to come first time in a Handicap is the fact that he is a half brother to Champion Hurdle winner Rock on Ruby, if he is half as good as him then he will win this at a canter. Interesting runner.
Whiskey Ridge - One of Sue's more fancied runners today and he has come on leaps and bounds in his last two runs hitting the crossbar and everything around it. The ground today will be right up his street today, so will the distance as he is stepped up a furlong today and that looks as if it will suit after staying on last time but running out of time. One of Sue's better chances today.
Pinerolo - I think i have said enough about this horse above, probably the best chance of a winner today.
Twice Lucky - Probably the dodgiest one in the lucky 15 as he is yet to win a race but has run some good races. He seems to love the better ground whenever he gets on it which is what we are dealing with today. This looks a golden opportunity for him to get off the mark, after last time he was running a brilliant race when unseating his jockey 5 from home. Fantastic opportunity to get off the mark today.
hopefully there are some winners amongst them today.
NAP - Pinerolo
NB - Be My Light
Wednesday 21 March 2012
My Attheraces Tracker Horses
I hope everyone had a fantastic time during Cheltenham Festival week, everything seems so slow the week after the Festival (almost like between Christmas and New Years). But hey we shall just have to look forward to Aintree now. Today i have decided to release the horses i have in my ATR tracker. For those of you who dont know what that is, you can have up to 50 horses in your tracker that you want to be alerted about its next run. The night before the race they send you an email with details of the horse and race so you will never miss a winner again. Here is the link, just so you know im not being asked to promote this i am doing so of my own accord as its just such a fantastic idea!
http://www.attheraces.com/tracker/myatrtracker.aspx
Ashdown Lad - This horse entered my tracker when he was 2nd to a 1/7 favourite at Lingfield by only half a length under hands and heels. That was only his second run and has since gone on to finish third at Kempton, but he didnt get the run of the race that day and i'd imagine that Lingfield will suit him much better. Definitely a winner in waiting.
Bally Gunner - I only put this one in my tracker yesterday when running at Exeter in a 2m1f Handicap hurdle. This was his first time in Handicap company but was staying on like a train and was screaming out for 2 and a half miles. The winner KATCHMORE also looks a very nice prospect from the race. But Bally Gunner will be winning before long.
Be My Light - If you read my blog a couple of weeks back you would have seen this one as the NAP of the day at a glamorous price, that day he was bang there before getting outpaced turning for home and looking well held back in the field. Up until then it looked a very ordinary run, However between the second last and last hurdle the penny seemed to drop and he stayed on in very taking fashion to land 5th place. A step up to 3 miles will be very welcome for him, should also be a very decent price.
Burke's Rock - This one has already won since being in my tracker on a Saturday meeting at Lingfield. But she entered the books for his debut run under Hayley Turner. She got absolutely murdered on the turn for home and lost all chance of a win, but Hayley rode him hands and heels to the line and she picked up to get third again. Even after winning her maiden there still looks more to come from her and she is definitely one to keep on the right side of.
Captain Sunshine - He has also won since being in the tracker, albeit at 4/9 in a weak race. But he entered my tracker due to his defeat by Balder Succes at Ascot when he was staying on very nicely over two miles, he won last time at Kempton over 2 and a half but will be contesting much hotter contests than that.
Red Inca - He was beaten soundly at Fakenham last friday but looks as if he would relish a step up in trip. Entered the books when staying on takingly to land 4th at Musselburgh 3 runs ago. He then won at Ludlow at 9/2 nicely, but as i say he was soundly beaten last time out.
Workbench - A Paul Nicholls horse that has only ran twice, the first time out was in a bumper over only an extended 1m4f. After that Ruby tweeted saying that he will be winning over 2 miles. He was stepped up to 2 miles at Chepstow last time out but seemed to get stuck in the mud under Harry Derham and was beaten comprehensively. Definitely one to consider on better ground.
I hope i can find you some winners through them lot, also a heads up, i have a very strong fancy tomorrow at carlisle so come back for a read.
Happy Punting guys
http://www.attheraces.com/tracker/myatrtracker.aspx
Ashdown Lad - This horse entered my tracker when he was 2nd to a 1/7 favourite at Lingfield by only half a length under hands and heels. That was only his second run and has since gone on to finish third at Kempton, but he didnt get the run of the race that day and i'd imagine that Lingfield will suit him much better. Definitely a winner in waiting.
Bally Gunner - I only put this one in my tracker yesterday when running at Exeter in a 2m1f Handicap hurdle. This was his first time in Handicap company but was staying on like a train and was screaming out for 2 and a half miles. The winner KATCHMORE also looks a very nice prospect from the race. But Bally Gunner will be winning before long.
Be My Light - If you read my blog a couple of weeks back you would have seen this one as the NAP of the day at a glamorous price, that day he was bang there before getting outpaced turning for home and looking well held back in the field. Up until then it looked a very ordinary run, However between the second last and last hurdle the penny seemed to drop and he stayed on in very taking fashion to land 5th place. A step up to 3 miles will be very welcome for him, should also be a very decent price.
Burke's Rock - This one has already won since being in my tracker on a Saturday meeting at Lingfield. But she entered the books for his debut run under Hayley Turner. She got absolutely murdered on the turn for home and lost all chance of a win, but Hayley rode him hands and heels to the line and she picked up to get third again. Even after winning her maiden there still looks more to come from her and she is definitely one to keep on the right side of.
Captain Sunshine - He has also won since being in the tracker, albeit at 4/9 in a weak race. But he entered my tracker due to his defeat by Balder Succes at Ascot when he was staying on very nicely over two miles, he won last time at Kempton over 2 and a half but will be contesting much hotter contests than that.
Red Inca - He was beaten soundly at Fakenham last friday but looks as if he would relish a step up in trip. Entered the books when staying on takingly to land 4th at Musselburgh 3 runs ago. He then won at Ludlow at 9/2 nicely, but as i say he was soundly beaten last time out.
Workbench - A Paul Nicholls horse that has only ran twice, the first time out was in a bumper over only an extended 1m4f. After that Ruby tweeted saying that he will be winning over 2 miles. He was stepped up to 2 miles at Chepstow last time out but seemed to get stuck in the mud under Harry Derham and was beaten comprehensively. Definitely one to consider on better ground.
I hope i can find you some winners through them lot, also a heads up, i have a very strong fancy tomorrow at carlisle so come back for a read.
Happy Punting guys
Thursday 15 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Day 4
This blog is up earlier as im off to Cheltenham tomorrow but hopefully we can find some winners on the last day of the 2012 Festival. Id just like to say, how good was Big Bucks!!! that horse is awesome! now lets move on
1:30 - JCB Triumph Hurdle
Won last year by Zarkandar, Paul Nicholls sends two to post today in PEARL SWAN and DODGING BULLETS. The latter has had just the one run in England but was a very smart performer on the flat in Ireland, he was thrown in at the deep end first time out over hurdles and ran a very credible race when only 1 and a half lengths behind GRUMETI. He was awarded the race in the stewards room when he faced the main Nicholls horse and Ruby Walsh's mount meets him 3 pounds better off which should account for the main Alan King runner. Robert Thornton had a tough choice between him and BALDER SUCCES who has been very impressive in his two starts at Ascot but is yet to tackle a field of this size and may not be very street wise. HIS EXCELLENCY is a huge price for a Davy Russell ridden horse however he was beaten by HISAABAAT out of sight. That race also accounts for SHADOW CATCHER, COUNTRYWIDE FLAME, ASAID and UT DE SIVOLA. If that form is true today then Dermot Weld's gelding has account for a quarter of the field. He was also a useful horse on the flat which is always a positive attribute in the Triumph Hurdle. SADLERS RISK was disappointing behind BABY MIX after having such alot of potential to fill after his hurdles debut. Tom George's gelding was impressive last time and on his hurdles debut at this course. DARROUN has beaten HISAABAAT but on softer ground and the latter will be more suited to todays conditions. Which is why he is today's selection
1st - Hisaabaat
2nd - Pearl Swan
3rd - Darroun
2:05 - Vincent O'brien County Handicap Hurdle
TED SPREAD and MASTER OF ARTS were both strongly fancied in last week's Imperial Cup but both disappointed hugely. The latter has the excuse of a big layoff so should be fitter this time, but the former just didnt seem good enough. LOCAL HERO came back off a layoff with a defeat by Simonsig by 3 and three quarter lengths, he has the bounce factor to overcome today though. UBI ACE is having his first run for Jonjo O'neill today but Tony Mccoy is claimed by JP on ALDERWOOD for Tom Mullins, he has been struggling as of late and never got in to his last race at Leopardstown. HELL'S BAY reverts back to hurdles after not taking back to fences after his break from racing. RAYA STAR has been fantastic this year and again cant be too far away this time. SNAP TIE is a class horse but has to come off of a 882 day lay off and may just struggle. PLAN A was fourth in this last year and forgive his last run he should be considered off a 6 pounds higher mark than last year. IFYOULETMEFINISH is a horse i like alot and goes handicapping for the first time today, he has form with alot of the English Triumph hurdle field and could be well handicapped. OLOFI also has been running well this year and was unlucky when looking like the winner at Newbury, he is expected to again go very close. DESERT CRY will need the ground softer but the stable is in form. CITIZENSHIP is up 15 pounds for a win last time out and that could account for his claims but is still expected to go well. REDERA is a nice horse and i know for a fact that the Tony Martin stable fancy this horse strongly, which is why he is the selection for today's race
1st - Redera
2nd - Ifyouletmefinish
3rd - Olofi
4th - Ubi Ace
2:40 - Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle
SEA OF THUNDER was a very unlucky loser here in December when sprinting clear and coming down at the last. He has to be fancied today even with a few strong opponents. LOVCEN is highly thought of by the King yard and has real live each way claims at a nice price. MOUNT BENBULBEN is fancied by Gordon Elliot and was runner up to BOSTON BOB on ground that the latter absolutely hated. Willie Mullins has sent him here instead of the Neptune earlier in the week and should take all the beating here. BRINDISI BREEZE would be a nice winner but he does go better on softer ground and Lucinda Russell will have been doing a rain dance this week. ROCKY CREEK is thought fairly highly of by Paul Nicholls and comes from a pointing background where Tom Malone bought him, he is very keen on him making a very nice horse, others are preferred today however. SIVOLA DE SIVOLA always seems to run his race and cant be dismissed at a juicy price however we will go with the strong favourite BOSTON BOB who looks fairly unbeatable at this level
1st - Boston Bob
2nd - Rocky Creek
3rd - Mount Benbulben
3:20 - Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase
This is the big one, the one everyone has been waiting for. LONG RUN vs KAUTO STAR. You can guarantee that there wont be a dry eye in the house if the veteran wins this race. But he would be an unlikely winner at this stage of his career as with his new tactics in hand he shouldnt stay the extended 3 mile trip. Last years winner will relish in the longer trip. It would seem that the value to be had here is through each way betting. The race looks to be set up by MIDNIGHT CHASE who loves this course but was out of his depth last year and looks the same this year. QUEL ESPRIT won the Irish Hennessy but the Irish 3 mile chasers look distinctly average at the moment as SYNCHRONISED beat them comfortably and in my opinion he is just a very good handicapper. BURTON PORT ran a cracker on his return last time behind the favourite but does have the bounce factor to overcome, if fully fit he should be right there and give the main two most to think about. WEIRD AL is the each way selection who is apparently catching pigeons at home and the yard are in very good form lately. LONG RUN should make it back to back Gold Cups today though.
1st - Long Run
2nd - Weird Al
3rd - Kauto Star
4:00 - Christie's Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup
BARBERS SHOP is by far the best horse in this field but its his mind isnt always on the job and he isnt as in Love with racing as he used to be. I really fancied JUST AMAZING in this last year but he has a layoff to overcome and is best avoided today. BLACKSTAFF would prefer soft ground for his best chance today. ON THE FRINGE was fourth in this last year and Enda Bolger says he was a baby last year and the experience will help him no end. SALSIFY will love the ground and should give his best today, a serious contender. CHAPOTURGEON is a past festival winner and has taken very nicely to hunter chasing, definitely cant rule him out without a second look. CLOUDY LANE is very fancied by the McCain yard and was a very good horse in his younger years, he is a bit old in the tooth now and he may struggle in this tougher test today. The selection is Enda Bolger's ON THE FRINGE who is looking for some respite after losing Garde Champetre earlier in the week.
1st - On The Fringe
2nd - Salsify
3rd - Chapoturgeon
4:40 - Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle
MAKE A TRACK was my tip for the Supreme a while back but Charlie Swan brings him here instead of that option. He has been reported to be in fine form at home and looks to be solid today. TONER D'OUDAIRIES carries the second string Gigginstown Stud colours but is a shorter price in the market. I'd prefer the first string here though. ARAB LEAGUE absolutely dotted up at Taunton but didnt beat much that day, he is well in himself but this is alot tougher today. OSCAR NOMINEE is a huge price for a Henderson and Geraghty horse this week and has to be respected. He has looked a nice prospect but one or two look better in the field, very strong each way claims. GRANDAD'S HORSE had his winning run come to an end last time but that was against Fingal Bay and wasnt beaten by much in truth. Real live each way claims here today like alot in this field. ATTAGLANCE is a recent Market Rasen winner and has a very good claimer on board today. EMPIRE LEVANT was beaten earlier in the season by Rock on Ruby but he was getting alot of weight that day. The only disappointing race he has run was last time out, so he cant be overlooked. MOLOTOF has alot of weight but there is a reason for that as he is a graded winner over hurdles at Ascot earlier in the season. MAKE A TRACK is the selection today in a hope that the faster ground brings a bit more improvement in him
1st - Make a track
2nd - Molotof
3rd - Oscar Nominee
4th - Attaglance
5:15 - Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup
Nicky Henderson has gone all out this year to win his fathers race. He saddles ERADICATE, KID CASSIDY, TANKS FOR THAT, ANQUETTA, FRENCH OPERA and BELLVANO. Alot of people will have different thoughts about his best chance. Personally i think KID CASSIDY is his best chance to win the race who last time out had KUMBESHWAR behind him at Doncaster and if that form holds up he should have the beating of him again. TOUBAB has a brilliant chance but he doesnt find much off the bridle and id doubt he will be winning this on the bridle. DE BOITRON has been laid out for this race by Ferdy Murphy and Lucy Alexander gets the leg up for her first ever festival winner. Bryan Cooper really fancies LUCKY WILLIAM and he has real strong each way credentials and could even be good enough to win this race. OISEAU DE NUIT is last years winner and runs off 7 pounds higher than last year. Even with that burden he should still be right up there towards the end. We will take a chance on ASTRACAD however who loves the course and Nigel Twiston Davies hasnt hid the fact that he thinks he is his best chance of a winner at the Festival. Which is why he is the selection for the last race of the 2012 festival.
1st - Astracad
2nd - Lucky William
3rd - De Boitron
4th - Kid Cassidy
I hope i have given you a few winners over this week and you have enjoyed reading my blog
follow me on Twitter if you dont already @lukeyboy1325
happy punting
1:30 - JCB Triumph Hurdle
Won last year by Zarkandar, Paul Nicholls sends two to post today in PEARL SWAN and DODGING BULLETS. The latter has had just the one run in England but was a very smart performer on the flat in Ireland, he was thrown in at the deep end first time out over hurdles and ran a very credible race when only 1 and a half lengths behind GRUMETI. He was awarded the race in the stewards room when he faced the main Nicholls horse and Ruby Walsh's mount meets him 3 pounds better off which should account for the main Alan King runner. Robert Thornton had a tough choice between him and BALDER SUCCES who has been very impressive in his two starts at Ascot but is yet to tackle a field of this size and may not be very street wise. HIS EXCELLENCY is a huge price for a Davy Russell ridden horse however he was beaten by HISAABAAT out of sight. That race also accounts for SHADOW CATCHER, COUNTRYWIDE FLAME, ASAID and UT DE SIVOLA. If that form is true today then Dermot Weld's gelding has account for a quarter of the field. He was also a useful horse on the flat which is always a positive attribute in the Triumph Hurdle. SADLERS RISK was disappointing behind BABY MIX after having such alot of potential to fill after his hurdles debut. Tom George's gelding was impressive last time and on his hurdles debut at this course. DARROUN has beaten HISAABAAT but on softer ground and the latter will be more suited to todays conditions. Which is why he is today's selection
1st - Hisaabaat
2nd - Pearl Swan
3rd - Darroun
2:05 - Vincent O'brien County Handicap Hurdle
TED SPREAD and MASTER OF ARTS were both strongly fancied in last week's Imperial Cup but both disappointed hugely. The latter has the excuse of a big layoff so should be fitter this time, but the former just didnt seem good enough. LOCAL HERO came back off a layoff with a defeat by Simonsig by 3 and three quarter lengths, he has the bounce factor to overcome today though. UBI ACE is having his first run for Jonjo O'neill today but Tony Mccoy is claimed by JP on ALDERWOOD for Tom Mullins, he has been struggling as of late and never got in to his last race at Leopardstown. HELL'S BAY reverts back to hurdles after not taking back to fences after his break from racing. RAYA STAR has been fantastic this year and again cant be too far away this time. SNAP TIE is a class horse but has to come off of a 882 day lay off and may just struggle. PLAN A was fourth in this last year and forgive his last run he should be considered off a 6 pounds higher mark than last year. IFYOULETMEFINISH is a horse i like alot and goes handicapping for the first time today, he has form with alot of the English Triumph hurdle field and could be well handicapped. OLOFI also has been running well this year and was unlucky when looking like the winner at Newbury, he is expected to again go very close. DESERT CRY will need the ground softer but the stable is in form. CITIZENSHIP is up 15 pounds for a win last time out and that could account for his claims but is still expected to go well. REDERA is a nice horse and i know for a fact that the Tony Martin stable fancy this horse strongly, which is why he is the selection for today's race
1st - Redera
2nd - Ifyouletmefinish
3rd - Olofi
4th - Ubi Ace
2:40 - Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle
SEA OF THUNDER was a very unlucky loser here in December when sprinting clear and coming down at the last. He has to be fancied today even with a few strong opponents. LOVCEN is highly thought of by the King yard and has real live each way claims at a nice price. MOUNT BENBULBEN is fancied by Gordon Elliot and was runner up to BOSTON BOB on ground that the latter absolutely hated. Willie Mullins has sent him here instead of the Neptune earlier in the week and should take all the beating here. BRINDISI BREEZE would be a nice winner but he does go better on softer ground and Lucinda Russell will have been doing a rain dance this week. ROCKY CREEK is thought fairly highly of by Paul Nicholls and comes from a pointing background where Tom Malone bought him, he is very keen on him making a very nice horse, others are preferred today however. SIVOLA DE SIVOLA always seems to run his race and cant be dismissed at a juicy price however we will go with the strong favourite BOSTON BOB who looks fairly unbeatable at this level
1st - Boston Bob
2nd - Rocky Creek
3rd - Mount Benbulben
3:20 - Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase
This is the big one, the one everyone has been waiting for. LONG RUN vs KAUTO STAR. You can guarantee that there wont be a dry eye in the house if the veteran wins this race. But he would be an unlikely winner at this stage of his career as with his new tactics in hand he shouldnt stay the extended 3 mile trip. Last years winner will relish in the longer trip. It would seem that the value to be had here is through each way betting. The race looks to be set up by MIDNIGHT CHASE who loves this course but was out of his depth last year and looks the same this year. QUEL ESPRIT won the Irish Hennessy but the Irish 3 mile chasers look distinctly average at the moment as SYNCHRONISED beat them comfortably and in my opinion he is just a very good handicapper. BURTON PORT ran a cracker on his return last time behind the favourite but does have the bounce factor to overcome, if fully fit he should be right there and give the main two most to think about. WEIRD AL is the each way selection who is apparently catching pigeons at home and the yard are in very good form lately. LONG RUN should make it back to back Gold Cups today though.
1st - Long Run
2nd - Weird Al
3rd - Kauto Star
4:00 - Christie's Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup
BARBERS SHOP is by far the best horse in this field but its his mind isnt always on the job and he isnt as in Love with racing as he used to be. I really fancied JUST AMAZING in this last year but he has a layoff to overcome and is best avoided today. BLACKSTAFF would prefer soft ground for his best chance today. ON THE FRINGE was fourth in this last year and Enda Bolger says he was a baby last year and the experience will help him no end. SALSIFY will love the ground and should give his best today, a serious contender. CHAPOTURGEON is a past festival winner and has taken very nicely to hunter chasing, definitely cant rule him out without a second look. CLOUDY LANE is very fancied by the McCain yard and was a very good horse in his younger years, he is a bit old in the tooth now and he may struggle in this tougher test today. The selection is Enda Bolger's ON THE FRINGE who is looking for some respite after losing Garde Champetre earlier in the week.
1st - On The Fringe
2nd - Salsify
3rd - Chapoturgeon
4:40 - Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle
MAKE A TRACK was my tip for the Supreme a while back but Charlie Swan brings him here instead of that option. He has been reported to be in fine form at home and looks to be solid today. TONER D'OUDAIRIES carries the second string Gigginstown Stud colours but is a shorter price in the market. I'd prefer the first string here though. ARAB LEAGUE absolutely dotted up at Taunton but didnt beat much that day, he is well in himself but this is alot tougher today. OSCAR NOMINEE is a huge price for a Henderson and Geraghty horse this week and has to be respected. He has looked a nice prospect but one or two look better in the field, very strong each way claims. GRANDAD'S HORSE had his winning run come to an end last time but that was against Fingal Bay and wasnt beaten by much in truth. Real live each way claims here today like alot in this field. ATTAGLANCE is a recent Market Rasen winner and has a very good claimer on board today. EMPIRE LEVANT was beaten earlier in the season by Rock on Ruby but he was getting alot of weight that day. The only disappointing race he has run was last time out, so he cant be overlooked. MOLOTOF has alot of weight but there is a reason for that as he is a graded winner over hurdles at Ascot earlier in the season. MAKE A TRACK is the selection today in a hope that the faster ground brings a bit more improvement in him
1st - Make a track
2nd - Molotof
3rd - Oscar Nominee
4th - Attaglance
5:15 - Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup
Nicky Henderson has gone all out this year to win his fathers race. He saddles ERADICATE, KID CASSIDY, TANKS FOR THAT, ANQUETTA, FRENCH OPERA and BELLVANO. Alot of people will have different thoughts about his best chance. Personally i think KID CASSIDY is his best chance to win the race who last time out had KUMBESHWAR behind him at Doncaster and if that form holds up he should have the beating of him again. TOUBAB has a brilliant chance but he doesnt find much off the bridle and id doubt he will be winning this on the bridle. DE BOITRON has been laid out for this race by Ferdy Murphy and Lucy Alexander gets the leg up for her first ever festival winner. Bryan Cooper really fancies LUCKY WILLIAM and he has real strong each way credentials and could even be good enough to win this race. OISEAU DE NUIT is last years winner and runs off 7 pounds higher than last year. Even with that burden he should still be right up there towards the end. We will take a chance on ASTRACAD however who loves the course and Nigel Twiston Davies hasnt hid the fact that he thinks he is his best chance of a winner at the Festival. Which is why he is the selection for the last race of the 2012 festival.
1st - Astracad
2nd - Lucky William
3rd - De Boitron
4th - Kid Cassidy
I hope i have given you a few winners over this week and you have enjoyed reading my blog
follow me on Twitter if you dont already @lukeyboy1325
happy punting
Cheltenham Festival Day 3
Day 2 seemed to be a bit more controversial than we had all thought with Wishfull Thinking falling at the 3rd, Sizing Europe and Finian's Rainbow settled down to fight it out and the defending champion looked set to go back to back turning for home. Can any more favourites seriously get beat? after all it is Big Bucks, so lets crack on with day 3.
1:30 - Jewson Novices Chase
The Alternative race for Donald McCain's PEDDLERS CROSS who looks to have made the right move in coming to this race after Sprinter Sacre's demolition job. The opposite way round and further trip than Kempton looks set to suit him down to the ground. He wont have it all his own way with the Scilly Isles winner FOR NON STOP in the field, chasing does look his game and he is a very genuine horse that always runs his race. He looks assured to put in another good effort today and had MICHEAL FLIPS 2 lengths behind him at Newbury. Andrew Turnell's horse has been a much better novice chaser than he was a hurdler and has run his socks off alot of times this season, this is a big step up in class today though. CHAMPION COURT won at this course on New Years Day and looked a very good prospect on that form, a reproduction of that wont put him two far away today. Behind him on that occasion was SOLIX who comes from a stable bang in form after dominating the card yesterday. He looks like a very good horse but shows a distinct lack of respect for the fences, better jumping will be needed to win this. SIR DES CHAMPS is a very fancied Irish runner and is unbeaten including winning the Martin Pipe conditional race last year and must have an outstanding chance of continuing his run. We are going to side with the impressive CRISTAL BONUS today though who is unbeaten over fences and since joining the Paul Nicholls stable. Lets hope these colours get a bit further than they did in the Champion Chase yesterday.
1st - Cristal Bonus
2nd - For Non Stop
3rd - Sir Des Champs
2:05 - Pertemps Final
A big field for the Pertemps this year and out of respect we have to start with the dual winner BUENA VISTA who has Tom Bellamy take off 10 pounds, he ran a much better race than his 9th place last time suggests. Donald McCain has had two winners this week and he saddles ACROSS THE BAY who cant be ruled out easily, he has been running well this year without reward and was completely out of his depth last time against Big Bucks. Big chance today. CAPE TRIBULATION is fancied today and not too long ago was considered a live Champion Hurdle contender. A return to his best puts him bang on the scene. There has been a bit of money for SERGENT GUIB'S this morning and has one of the strongest chances in the field justifying his second favourite tag. He is unexposed and inexperience comes with that which wont help in a field like this. OUR FATHER is the favourite and has been laid out for this race, he was very impressive when winning at Ascot under an ultra cool Timmy Murphy. He had an entry for the World Hurdle but was nothing more than an outside chance. RESTLESS HARRY has the burden of a top weight but is a very good horse, others are preferred today though. ASHKAZAR is a very good horse on his day but can be very in and out, it is a gamble what horse will turn up. PETTIFOUR came from a huge layoff to go down by a small distance at this track behind Dorset Square. A run like that is sure to hold him in good order. Barry Geraghty rides for Jonjo aboard THEHILLOFUISNEACH who has been in flying form this season and the ground may have been the cause for his last run. A chance today if he isnt too high in the handicap. HOUBLON DES OBEAUX beat KAYF ARAMIS here in January. The latter is better off today and both are capable of getting competitive. If RICK handles the faster ground he will have one of the leading chances after being 14 lengths behind Mourad on his last run. We will give CANTLOW another chance today though, he has been dropping down the weights but has run some very good races this year.
1st - Cantlow
2nd - Rick
3rd - Pettifour
4th - Houblon Des Obeaux
2:40 - Ryanair Chase
SOMERSBY has come in for notable market support and also even stronger on the exchanges today, he is also my bet of the week and his form took a huge boost yesterday with Finian's Rainbow now champion chaser. He wont have things his own way though with RIVERSIDE THEATRE a good favourite today and I cant have people who say he wont enjoy Cheltenham after flying up the hill in the Arkle in his only appearance at the track, he was 8 lengths behind Sizing Europe that day. But he is an improved horse now and 2 and a half miles is much more his distance. NOBLE PRINCE won the Jewson last year and has made a good step up to be a second season chaser but has found winning hard to come by. Another renowned runner up is FORPADYDEPLASTERER but isnt the horse he used to be, and there are one or two better today. RUBI LIGHT is another with a huge chance today but would be alot better on softer ground, saying that he did run a stellar race in this last year at fancy odds. I think Alan King chose the right option in sending MEDERMIT here instead of the Gold Cup, but i think he is just a tad short of being top class but has live place credentials. ALBERTAS RUN has won the last two renewals of this contest and is an admirable horse, he has won his only start this season at Aintree, but that wasnt a strong race really, however the festival brings him alive with 3 festival wins to his name. CAPTAIN CHRIS disgraced himself a little last time in the Argento but before that ran a brilliant race to come third in the King George, if he runs how we know he can then he has a live shout. SOMERSBY will take all the beating today though.
1st - Somersby
2nd - Riverside Theatre
3rd - Medermit
3:20 - Ladbrokes World Hurdle
Usually with the name BIG BUCKS in a race it would seem a formality but the name of OSCAR WHISKY makes you second glance. The latter has unconfirmed stamina doubts but his 2 and a half mile form suggests he should have no problem in getting the extra trip. Whether he has the class to beat the Paul Nicholls' horse is a big worry though. MOURAD was third in this last year and bounced back to his best last time out, he has the potential to make his tag of 22/1 look very silly for each way punters. VOLER LA VEDETTE is a gorgeous mare but realistically is only going for the places today much like the others in the field. THOUSAND STARS won the Morgiana hurdle earlier in the year but last time didnt jump like he can last time and that cost him 2nd place as he wouldnt have got near Hurricane Fly. Another that has real live place claims is 2011 Neptune third SO YOUNG who has been running well this year and it would be no surprise to see him make a really good impression of himself today. My each way preference is for DYNASTE today though after looking to have BIG BUCKS measure for a few strides turning in last time but then having no answer when he quickened. David Pipe will have him spot on for this race today.
1st - Big Bucks
2nd - Dynaste
3rd - Oscar Whisky
4:00 - Byrne Group Plate Handicap Chase
NOTUS DE LA TOUR could have gone for the Jewson but opted for this handicap today, his best run to date was over fences was his first run in Ireland when 2nd behind Blackstairmountain but this is his first handicap and whether he is good enough is in the air, he should make a good account of himself. This looks a hard race to win off top weight for TARTAK and even though CRACK AWAY JACK has some fancy form he may struggle today. HECTORS CHOICE looked to have Nacarat beat at Kempton when they swung for home but quickly emptied out over 3 miles, a return to this trip puts him in the mix. SALUT FLO'S second to Prince de beauchene looks very smart now and he must have a great chance. DIVERS will be at peak fitness for this race and Tony Mccoy on board isnt exactly a negative, but he is without a winner this week and may be worth avoiding. THE COCKNEY MACKEM has been running well this year but doesnt find much off the bridle, like last time when he was ran into the ground at Doncaster by Quentin Collonges. MAD MOOSE has a habit of making a mistake that costs him a race and round Cheltenham that really cant be done. HOLMWOOD LEGEND is already a festival winner in this race and the trainer has had a winner this week already. If Tom Taafe's FINGER ONTHE PULSE runs to his best then he will give his claimer a huge ride round Cheltenham and as anyone who reads this blog knows, im a huge Maurice Linehan fan. NICEONEFRANKIE has a fantastic chance and will be my choice today, he has improved no end this year and is due to be raised 3 pounds in the future. His win at Newbury suggests he still has a bit in hand so we will take our chance on him.
1st - Niceonefrankie
2nd - Notus De La Tour
3rd - Hector's Choice
4th - Salut Flo
4:40 - Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
MOSTLY BOB is a course winner and caught the eye that day but he is prone to making a few mistakes through his races and he would be a tentative selection. However i do fancy him to run well. FAASEL loves this race and found the winning way last time after a long losing streak. He has been running well for a long time though and should make a good account of himself again. ADAMS ISLAND has improved no end since moving to Paul Nolan's stable but may find this test a bit too much, and is also prone to the odd mistake during a race. BENBANE HEAD is a course and distance winner although it is hard to see him getting competitive today. MIDNIGHT APPEAL won last time up at Sandown and is a very strong leading chance after being ultra consistent this year. YOUR BUSY has a live outside chance and has been second here but looked like he needed further that time, this is a very live outsider. BE THERE IN FIVE was 3rd in the 4 miler last year but since then hasnt completed a race, he must show alot more to even think about getting competitive. EXMOOR RANGER won at Ascot earlier in the year but never runs two races the same and since then has fallen and come fifth, if he is having a going day then he could be a lead contender. Its hard to trust him though. SUNNYHILLBOY has been backed in this morning but he usually struggles in these big handicaps, and will place at best. Nina Carberry rides START ME UP who won a good ground bumper at Cheltenham in 2009, his recent form will give him a chance today but others are preferred, the jockey is a positive booking. The selection today is SWING BILL who won the amateur riders event in November at this track after making an awful mistake on the second circuit. He is usually a sound enough jumper and we take a chance on the good ground to bring a win from him.
1st - Swing Bill
2nd - Midnight Appeal
3rd - Your Busy
4th - Faasel
bet of the day - cristal bonus and somersby double
Happy Punting
1:30 - Jewson Novices Chase
The Alternative race for Donald McCain's PEDDLERS CROSS who looks to have made the right move in coming to this race after Sprinter Sacre's demolition job. The opposite way round and further trip than Kempton looks set to suit him down to the ground. He wont have it all his own way with the Scilly Isles winner FOR NON STOP in the field, chasing does look his game and he is a very genuine horse that always runs his race. He looks assured to put in another good effort today and had MICHEAL FLIPS 2 lengths behind him at Newbury. Andrew Turnell's horse has been a much better novice chaser than he was a hurdler and has run his socks off alot of times this season, this is a big step up in class today though. CHAMPION COURT won at this course on New Years Day and looked a very good prospect on that form, a reproduction of that wont put him two far away today. Behind him on that occasion was SOLIX who comes from a stable bang in form after dominating the card yesterday. He looks like a very good horse but shows a distinct lack of respect for the fences, better jumping will be needed to win this. SIR DES CHAMPS is a very fancied Irish runner and is unbeaten including winning the Martin Pipe conditional race last year and must have an outstanding chance of continuing his run. We are going to side with the impressive CRISTAL BONUS today though who is unbeaten over fences and since joining the Paul Nicholls stable. Lets hope these colours get a bit further than they did in the Champion Chase yesterday.
1st - Cristal Bonus
2nd - For Non Stop
3rd - Sir Des Champs
2:05 - Pertemps Final
A big field for the Pertemps this year and out of respect we have to start with the dual winner BUENA VISTA who has Tom Bellamy take off 10 pounds, he ran a much better race than his 9th place last time suggests. Donald McCain has had two winners this week and he saddles ACROSS THE BAY who cant be ruled out easily, he has been running well this year without reward and was completely out of his depth last time against Big Bucks. Big chance today. CAPE TRIBULATION is fancied today and not too long ago was considered a live Champion Hurdle contender. A return to his best puts him bang on the scene. There has been a bit of money for SERGENT GUIB'S this morning and has one of the strongest chances in the field justifying his second favourite tag. He is unexposed and inexperience comes with that which wont help in a field like this. OUR FATHER is the favourite and has been laid out for this race, he was very impressive when winning at Ascot under an ultra cool Timmy Murphy. He had an entry for the World Hurdle but was nothing more than an outside chance. RESTLESS HARRY has the burden of a top weight but is a very good horse, others are preferred today though. ASHKAZAR is a very good horse on his day but can be very in and out, it is a gamble what horse will turn up. PETTIFOUR came from a huge layoff to go down by a small distance at this track behind Dorset Square. A run like that is sure to hold him in good order. Barry Geraghty rides for Jonjo aboard THEHILLOFUISNEACH who has been in flying form this season and the ground may have been the cause for his last run. A chance today if he isnt too high in the handicap. HOUBLON DES OBEAUX beat KAYF ARAMIS here in January. The latter is better off today and both are capable of getting competitive. If RICK handles the faster ground he will have one of the leading chances after being 14 lengths behind Mourad on his last run. We will give CANTLOW another chance today though, he has been dropping down the weights but has run some very good races this year.
1st - Cantlow
2nd - Rick
3rd - Pettifour
4th - Houblon Des Obeaux
2:40 - Ryanair Chase
SOMERSBY has come in for notable market support and also even stronger on the exchanges today, he is also my bet of the week and his form took a huge boost yesterday with Finian's Rainbow now champion chaser. He wont have things his own way though with RIVERSIDE THEATRE a good favourite today and I cant have people who say he wont enjoy Cheltenham after flying up the hill in the Arkle in his only appearance at the track, he was 8 lengths behind Sizing Europe that day. But he is an improved horse now and 2 and a half miles is much more his distance. NOBLE PRINCE won the Jewson last year and has made a good step up to be a second season chaser but has found winning hard to come by. Another renowned runner up is FORPADYDEPLASTERER but isnt the horse he used to be, and there are one or two better today. RUBI LIGHT is another with a huge chance today but would be alot better on softer ground, saying that he did run a stellar race in this last year at fancy odds. I think Alan King chose the right option in sending MEDERMIT here instead of the Gold Cup, but i think he is just a tad short of being top class but has live place credentials. ALBERTAS RUN has won the last two renewals of this contest and is an admirable horse, he has won his only start this season at Aintree, but that wasnt a strong race really, however the festival brings him alive with 3 festival wins to his name. CAPTAIN CHRIS disgraced himself a little last time in the Argento but before that ran a brilliant race to come third in the King George, if he runs how we know he can then he has a live shout. SOMERSBY will take all the beating today though.
1st - Somersby
2nd - Riverside Theatre
3rd - Medermit
3:20 - Ladbrokes World Hurdle
Usually with the name BIG BUCKS in a race it would seem a formality but the name of OSCAR WHISKY makes you second glance. The latter has unconfirmed stamina doubts but his 2 and a half mile form suggests he should have no problem in getting the extra trip. Whether he has the class to beat the Paul Nicholls' horse is a big worry though. MOURAD was third in this last year and bounced back to his best last time out, he has the potential to make his tag of 22/1 look very silly for each way punters. VOLER LA VEDETTE is a gorgeous mare but realistically is only going for the places today much like the others in the field. THOUSAND STARS won the Morgiana hurdle earlier in the year but last time didnt jump like he can last time and that cost him 2nd place as he wouldnt have got near Hurricane Fly. Another that has real live place claims is 2011 Neptune third SO YOUNG who has been running well this year and it would be no surprise to see him make a really good impression of himself today. My each way preference is for DYNASTE today though after looking to have BIG BUCKS measure for a few strides turning in last time but then having no answer when he quickened. David Pipe will have him spot on for this race today.
1st - Big Bucks
2nd - Dynaste
3rd - Oscar Whisky
4:00 - Byrne Group Plate Handicap Chase
NOTUS DE LA TOUR could have gone for the Jewson but opted for this handicap today, his best run to date was over fences was his first run in Ireland when 2nd behind Blackstairmountain but this is his first handicap and whether he is good enough is in the air, he should make a good account of himself. This looks a hard race to win off top weight for TARTAK and even though CRACK AWAY JACK has some fancy form he may struggle today. HECTORS CHOICE looked to have Nacarat beat at Kempton when they swung for home but quickly emptied out over 3 miles, a return to this trip puts him in the mix. SALUT FLO'S second to Prince de beauchene looks very smart now and he must have a great chance. DIVERS will be at peak fitness for this race and Tony Mccoy on board isnt exactly a negative, but he is without a winner this week and may be worth avoiding. THE COCKNEY MACKEM has been running well this year but doesnt find much off the bridle, like last time when he was ran into the ground at Doncaster by Quentin Collonges. MAD MOOSE has a habit of making a mistake that costs him a race and round Cheltenham that really cant be done. HOLMWOOD LEGEND is already a festival winner in this race and the trainer has had a winner this week already. If Tom Taafe's FINGER ONTHE PULSE runs to his best then he will give his claimer a huge ride round Cheltenham and as anyone who reads this blog knows, im a huge Maurice Linehan fan. NICEONEFRANKIE has a fantastic chance and will be my choice today, he has improved no end this year and is due to be raised 3 pounds in the future. His win at Newbury suggests he still has a bit in hand so we will take our chance on him.
1st - Niceonefrankie
2nd - Notus De La Tour
3rd - Hector's Choice
4th - Salut Flo
4:40 - Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase
MOSTLY BOB is a course winner and caught the eye that day but he is prone to making a few mistakes through his races and he would be a tentative selection. However i do fancy him to run well. FAASEL loves this race and found the winning way last time after a long losing streak. He has been running well for a long time though and should make a good account of himself again. ADAMS ISLAND has improved no end since moving to Paul Nolan's stable but may find this test a bit too much, and is also prone to the odd mistake during a race. BENBANE HEAD is a course and distance winner although it is hard to see him getting competitive today. MIDNIGHT APPEAL won last time up at Sandown and is a very strong leading chance after being ultra consistent this year. YOUR BUSY has a live outside chance and has been second here but looked like he needed further that time, this is a very live outsider. BE THERE IN FIVE was 3rd in the 4 miler last year but since then hasnt completed a race, he must show alot more to even think about getting competitive. EXMOOR RANGER won at Ascot earlier in the year but never runs two races the same and since then has fallen and come fifth, if he is having a going day then he could be a lead contender. Its hard to trust him though. SUNNYHILLBOY has been backed in this morning but he usually struggles in these big handicaps, and will place at best. Nina Carberry rides START ME UP who won a good ground bumper at Cheltenham in 2009, his recent form will give him a chance today but others are preferred, the jockey is a positive booking. The selection today is SWING BILL who won the amateur riders event in November at this track after making an awful mistake on the second circuit. He is usually a sound enough jumper and we take a chance on the good ground to bring a win from him.
1st - Swing Bill
2nd - Midnight Appeal
3rd - Your Busy
4th - Faasel
bet of the day - cristal bonus and somersby double
Happy Punting
Wednesday 14 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Day 2
A huge shock on day one with the mighty Hurricane Fly being beat into third by Rock On Ruby and Overturn in the Champion hurdle. You just got the feeling that he was never really going too well before turning down the hill and finding very little compared to what he usually does. But in the good part of the day Cinders and Ashes landed the Supreme Novices for the blog and a heart warming family success for Hunt Ball in the last on the day, my bank balance profited yesterday but hey today is a new day.
1:30 - Diamond Jubilee National Hunt Chase
The usual marathon to start off day two in the National Hunt Chase and as always the Irish challenge is a strong one. But the home challenge is lead by HARRY THE VIKING from the Paul Nicholls yard and ridden by Will Biddick, he has done nothing wrong this year and has been in fantastic winning form at Doncaster. My only worry is that he doesnt do alot when he hits the front and you cant do that at Cheltenham. SOLL leads the away teams charge and has been tipped up by Pricewise, an absolute mountain of a horse and a winner of 2 out of his 3 starts but is still to prove himself on good ground. STRONGBOWS LEGEND stays absolutely all day but really doesnt look good enough. TEAFORTHREE also stays all day and is only a novice, he has won some really strong events though and looks to be one of the horses to beat in the race. IRON CHANCELLOR and LIVELY BARON look to only be playing to place chances today but both represent big name stables. UNIVERSAL SOLDIER has a strong chance but does seem to run best with more give in the ground. FOUR COMMANDERS is ultra consistent and always seems to run an honest race but when he has tried good ground he hasnt loved in and like many here looks more at home on a softer surface. The same cant be said for BLENHEIM BROOK who seems to go on absolutely any surface and isnt without a chance today but a place may be his best claims. OUR ISLAND finished half a length behind TEAFORTHREE in a beginners chase at the start of the year and is a much bigger price than the latter however he hasnt been in form as of late and has something to prove. This race has been planned for ALFIE SPINNER for a while and Sam Waley-Cohen gets the leg up today, he is a serious contender and ran a blinder last time at Ascot. But preference today is for the Willie Mullins horse ALLEE GARDE who has no ground worries and has been freshened up thanks to a break since January.
1st - Allee Garde
2nd - Alfie Spinner
3rd - Four Commanders
2:05 - Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle
Rock on Ruby was second in this last year and the year before was won by Peddlers Cross, its clear recently this race has a good link to the Champion Hurdle and one that could be next making that step is SIMONSIG. Nicky Henderson turned down the chance to run in the Supreme yesterday in an attempt to sort out his jumping worries, but that is enough to oppose him today for me, saying that he is a very strong horse and is a worthy favourite, as im writing this BATONNIER has been confirmed as a non runner. In strong opposition to the favourite today Willie Mullins sends over SOUS LES CIEUX who has done nothing wrong in Ireland and suffered from a slow pace last time out but was getting there late on. It was mistakes that cost him that day and will need to be better this time and is a serious contender. NAGPUR has been running well lately but against much weaker competition and will need to improve considerably to land a blow. Towards the start of the season SECRET EDGE had some fancy form after winning the Wensleydale and is now the stables number one entry in this race. He has been freshened up since running here on trials day but looks to be playing for a place. NELSON'S BRIDGE beat Dualla Lord last time out and is yet another with strong place claims. MONKSLAND shot into the picture with a decisive victory at Naas in January, he is yet to encounter fast ground though and is best watched. He was ahead of Lyreen legend that day who had MAKE YOUR MARK behind him at Leopardstown. Its no secret Davy Russell fancies him and he has encountered fast ground in which he won on before. More will be needed though. John Ferguson has had a brilliant season and a notable Jockey booking on his horse COTTON MILL in Barry Geraghty. He won a trial for this race at Warwick and is well in with a shout today. Im going to take the value on FELIX YONGER however who hasnt done anything wrong since changing to the Mullins yard and will improve no end for good ground. An attractive price of 20/1 and 25s can be found in places, there is value to be had in this race and im siding with the Willie Mullins second string to give us a big race winner.
1st - Felix Yonger
2nd - Cotton Mill
3rd - Simonsig
2:40 - RSA Chase
Alot of horses with huge potential in this race none more so than GRAND CRUS who was argued to go for the Gold Cup and looks the one they all have to beat. He brings the best hurdle form to the table by far and has gone from strength to strength over fences. He had BOBS WORTH 5 lengths behind him in the Feltham at Kempton when really it could have been much further. Nicky Henderson's charge has been a bit disappointing over fences are promising so much over hurdles last year, but there could be more to come from him and is a contender. Mouse Morris really fancies FIRST LIEUTENANT to spoil the party for the big guns today but needs to show more here than he has at home. He beat Rock on Ruby here last year who won the Champion Hurdle yesterday. Another horse strongly fancied by connections is JOIN TOGETHER who is already a course and distance winner when he beat a useful field in November. He has won here twice this year and there is no doubt he loves the course after not being unplaced in 3 starts at Prestbury Park. MR MOONSHINE was my fancy a while ago and is a lovely bold front running type but does look out of his depth here, Shane Byrne gets the leg up today which is a positive from Henry Oliver. Alan King has a live outsider in WALKON who looks as if he really needs 3 miles to produce his best over fences. He will however need to produce a career best today. CALL THE POLICE ran a cracker on his comeback run and as long as the bounce factor doesnt affect him he should have live each way claims. Its very hard to see past GRAND CRUS though
1st - Grand Crus
2nd - Call the Police
3rd - First Lieutenant
3:20 - Sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase
Here we go then another Irish Banker in the main race on the day and again he looks pretty bomb proof. SIZING EUROPE'S best performance came in the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December when destroying a very decent field which included back in second KAUTO STONE. He burst onto the scene at Down Royal with a big reputation and didnt let down his supporters, since then he ran second in a Tingle Creek and disappointed on his step up to two and a half miles at Ascot. A drop back in trip shouldnt be enough to see him win today but strong place claims are there. Disappointing in the Tingle Creek was WISHFULL THINKING who didnt enjoy leading that day and since the change of tactics in holding him up he as been a different horse. Second to FINIAN'S RAINBOW at Kempton before disappointing at Ascot. The latter mentioned went down a gallant second to Somersby in the Victor Chandler and cant be dismissed easily. You get the feeling he will just need to step up on what he has done so far though. BIG ZEB has been here and done it after winning this race 2 years ago, an 11 year old now though he could be getting a bit long in the tooth. Though he always gives his all and is definitely a contender. REALT DUBH hasnt run this season but is reported to be in good order and has 'never felt better' according to Paul Carberry. He may just need this race today though. Each way claims though. IM SO LUCKY ran a good race here last year but isnt good enough whereas GAUVAIN probably needs further. SIZING EUROPE should make is two years in a row and a 3rd successive festival win.
1st - Sizing Europe
2nd - Kauto Stone
3rd - Finian's Rainbow
4:00 - Coral Cup
Only the 28 horses go to post for this years Coral Cup and they are head by Betfair Hurdle runner up GET ME OUT OF HERE who was badly hampered by Darlan falling in front of him that day and he may have won had he avoided that trouble. CARLITO BRIGANTE won this last year and is undoubtedly a very good horse but was no match for Big Bucks when they met at Aintree. There arent any horses of that caliber today though and he should be there at the finish. BALGARRY sneaks in at the bottom and could be anything after an impressive win at Newbury. That was his first run in England but they do have the bounce factor to overcome today though. SPIRIT RIVER is another that has won this before when getting home in front here 2 years ago but seems to have lost his way lately since trying chasing. CONSIGLIERE will want it softer and the same may go for TENOR NIVERNAIS. Brendan Powell has a live chance in his first festival ride aboard ACT OF KALANISI who runs well in these handicap hurdles, but there may be others that are better in the field. THIRD INTENTION was the very impressive winner of the National Spirit hurdle at Fontwell but hasnt really shined in big handicaps this season. DARE ME ran a nice race at Taunton and was squeezed out when passing a hurdle, whether he would have won that day is doubtful and doesnt look good enough for today. CAPE DUTCH has been improving all year and runs off a career high mark which looks testing enough even with Jack Quinlan's 5 pounds off. Chris Honour has one more win before he rides out his claim and retires, he rides his beloved POOLE MASTER and isnt without a chance but preference is for MEGASTAR to return to form with a bang. I just feel that a return to a big field will help him concentrate more on his racing and reproduce his best form. Saying that he could drop himself out and sulk.
1st - Megastar
2nd - Balgarry
3rd - Cape Dutch
4th - Carlito Brigante
4:40 - Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Alot of ante post bets have been for Alan King's VENDOR after he has been talking it up like defeat is out of the question. Comparing him to Grumeti and Balder Succes. Racing off 129 he could take all the beating. SOLIWERY was behind COLEBROOK at Sandown but he may be better for that run as he was very green and just couldnt get past. Saying that the latter mentioned was very tough and looks to have a live outside chance and could hold on for a place. LEMON DROP RED is fancied by Paul Webber after getting off the mark over hurdles last time at Southwell. He may just be a bit short of the best in this race however. ULCK DU LIN is somewhat of an unknown quantity in the fact that he hasnt been seen in England but was a smart horse over hurdles in France and if translating the form he is in with a great shout. GORGEOUS SIXTY was outclassed last time in a grade one and has quite a bit to find but a positive is that Ruby has chosen him over the others available to him. ARDLUI won really well at Newbury first time out but disappointed at Doncaster next time out, a return to his debut form would put him bang there and has a great shout. Noel Meade has booked Maurice Linehan to claim 7 pounds off his BAT MASTERSON which is a notable jockey booking. He seemed to fancy his horses chance but on the form book he may have something to find on the main protagonists. KAZLIAN hasnt beaten much so far but its the fashion he has won it in is that has caught my eye. He is really fancied by David Pipe and should go very close. Im going to take a chance on Ardlui today though as Alan King's second string.
1st - Ardlui
2nd - Vendor
3rd - Bat Masterson
4th - Ulck Du Lin
5:15 - Weatherbys Champion Bumper
Last year this was the only race won by an English trained horse on this day, hopefully today is a bit different. But Hobbs and Johnson could hold the key to this race again this year with VILLAGE VIC who has been running well in all races, just touched off last time at Newbury he could take the beating today. NEW YEARS EVE is a nice horse and is unbeaten but may be a bit inexperienced, saying that i fancy him to run a strong race. THE NEW ONE won a bumper here on New years day but im just questioning how strong that race really was with the selection beating chancery by further than the twiston davies horse. CHAMPAGNE FEVER is bought over by Willie Mullins and is ridden by Paddy, this will be the first time he has encountered good ground and could be anything really. SIR JOHNSON is probably the most experienced in the race but has won 4 from 4 and 12/1 does look a big price. ROYAL GUARDSMAN has lost to SIR JOHNSON and there is no real reason why he should reverse that form. But Village Vic is the selection.
1st - Village Vic
2nd - New Years Eve
3rd - Champagne fever
happy punting everyone
1:30 - Diamond Jubilee National Hunt Chase
The usual marathon to start off day two in the National Hunt Chase and as always the Irish challenge is a strong one. But the home challenge is lead by HARRY THE VIKING from the Paul Nicholls yard and ridden by Will Biddick, he has done nothing wrong this year and has been in fantastic winning form at Doncaster. My only worry is that he doesnt do alot when he hits the front and you cant do that at Cheltenham. SOLL leads the away teams charge and has been tipped up by Pricewise, an absolute mountain of a horse and a winner of 2 out of his 3 starts but is still to prove himself on good ground. STRONGBOWS LEGEND stays absolutely all day but really doesnt look good enough. TEAFORTHREE also stays all day and is only a novice, he has won some really strong events though and looks to be one of the horses to beat in the race. IRON CHANCELLOR and LIVELY BARON look to only be playing to place chances today but both represent big name stables. UNIVERSAL SOLDIER has a strong chance but does seem to run best with more give in the ground. FOUR COMMANDERS is ultra consistent and always seems to run an honest race but when he has tried good ground he hasnt loved in and like many here looks more at home on a softer surface. The same cant be said for BLENHEIM BROOK who seems to go on absolutely any surface and isnt without a chance today but a place may be his best claims. OUR ISLAND finished half a length behind TEAFORTHREE in a beginners chase at the start of the year and is a much bigger price than the latter however he hasnt been in form as of late and has something to prove. This race has been planned for ALFIE SPINNER for a while and Sam Waley-Cohen gets the leg up today, he is a serious contender and ran a blinder last time at Ascot. But preference today is for the Willie Mullins horse ALLEE GARDE who has no ground worries and has been freshened up thanks to a break since January.
1st - Allee Garde
2nd - Alfie Spinner
3rd - Four Commanders
2:05 - Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle
Rock on Ruby was second in this last year and the year before was won by Peddlers Cross, its clear recently this race has a good link to the Champion Hurdle and one that could be next making that step is SIMONSIG. Nicky Henderson turned down the chance to run in the Supreme yesterday in an attempt to sort out his jumping worries, but that is enough to oppose him today for me, saying that he is a very strong horse and is a worthy favourite, as im writing this BATONNIER has been confirmed as a non runner. In strong opposition to the favourite today Willie Mullins sends over SOUS LES CIEUX who has done nothing wrong in Ireland and suffered from a slow pace last time out but was getting there late on. It was mistakes that cost him that day and will need to be better this time and is a serious contender. NAGPUR has been running well lately but against much weaker competition and will need to improve considerably to land a blow. Towards the start of the season SECRET EDGE had some fancy form after winning the Wensleydale and is now the stables number one entry in this race. He has been freshened up since running here on trials day but looks to be playing for a place. NELSON'S BRIDGE beat Dualla Lord last time out and is yet another with strong place claims. MONKSLAND shot into the picture with a decisive victory at Naas in January, he is yet to encounter fast ground though and is best watched. He was ahead of Lyreen legend that day who had MAKE YOUR MARK behind him at Leopardstown. Its no secret Davy Russell fancies him and he has encountered fast ground in which he won on before. More will be needed though. John Ferguson has had a brilliant season and a notable Jockey booking on his horse COTTON MILL in Barry Geraghty. He won a trial for this race at Warwick and is well in with a shout today. Im going to take the value on FELIX YONGER however who hasnt done anything wrong since changing to the Mullins yard and will improve no end for good ground. An attractive price of 20/1 and 25s can be found in places, there is value to be had in this race and im siding with the Willie Mullins second string to give us a big race winner.
1st - Felix Yonger
2nd - Cotton Mill
3rd - Simonsig
2:40 - RSA Chase
Alot of horses with huge potential in this race none more so than GRAND CRUS who was argued to go for the Gold Cup and looks the one they all have to beat. He brings the best hurdle form to the table by far and has gone from strength to strength over fences. He had BOBS WORTH 5 lengths behind him in the Feltham at Kempton when really it could have been much further. Nicky Henderson's charge has been a bit disappointing over fences are promising so much over hurdles last year, but there could be more to come from him and is a contender. Mouse Morris really fancies FIRST LIEUTENANT to spoil the party for the big guns today but needs to show more here than he has at home. He beat Rock on Ruby here last year who won the Champion Hurdle yesterday. Another horse strongly fancied by connections is JOIN TOGETHER who is already a course and distance winner when he beat a useful field in November. He has won here twice this year and there is no doubt he loves the course after not being unplaced in 3 starts at Prestbury Park. MR MOONSHINE was my fancy a while ago and is a lovely bold front running type but does look out of his depth here, Shane Byrne gets the leg up today which is a positive from Henry Oliver. Alan King has a live outsider in WALKON who looks as if he really needs 3 miles to produce his best over fences. He will however need to produce a career best today. CALL THE POLICE ran a cracker on his comeback run and as long as the bounce factor doesnt affect him he should have live each way claims. Its very hard to see past GRAND CRUS though
1st - Grand Crus
2nd - Call the Police
3rd - First Lieutenant
3:20 - Sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase
Here we go then another Irish Banker in the main race on the day and again he looks pretty bomb proof. SIZING EUROPE'S best performance came in the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December when destroying a very decent field which included back in second KAUTO STONE. He burst onto the scene at Down Royal with a big reputation and didnt let down his supporters, since then he ran second in a Tingle Creek and disappointed on his step up to two and a half miles at Ascot. A drop back in trip shouldnt be enough to see him win today but strong place claims are there. Disappointing in the Tingle Creek was WISHFULL THINKING who didnt enjoy leading that day and since the change of tactics in holding him up he as been a different horse. Second to FINIAN'S RAINBOW at Kempton before disappointing at Ascot. The latter mentioned went down a gallant second to Somersby in the Victor Chandler and cant be dismissed easily. You get the feeling he will just need to step up on what he has done so far though. BIG ZEB has been here and done it after winning this race 2 years ago, an 11 year old now though he could be getting a bit long in the tooth. Though he always gives his all and is definitely a contender. REALT DUBH hasnt run this season but is reported to be in good order and has 'never felt better' according to Paul Carberry. He may just need this race today though. Each way claims though. IM SO LUCKY ran a good race here last year but isnt good enough whereas GAUVAIN probably needs further. SIZING EUROPE should make is two years in a row and a 3rd successive festival win.
1st - Sizing Europe
2nd - Kauto Stone
3rd - Finian's Rainbow
4:00 - Coral Cup
Only the 28 horses go to post for this years Coral Cup and they are head by Betfair Hurdle runner up GET ME OUT OF HERE who was badly hampered by Darlan falling in front of him that day and he may have won had he avoided that trouble. CARLITO BRIGANTE won this last year and is undoubtedly a very good horse but was no match for Big Bucks when they met at Aintree. There arent any horses of that caliber today though and he should be there at the finish. BALGARRY sneaks in at the bottom and could be anything after an impressive win at Newbury. That was his first run in England but they do have the bounce factor to overcome today though. SPIRIT RIVER is another that has won this before when getting home in front here 2 years ago but seems to have lost his way lately since trying chasing. CONSIGLIERE will want it softer and the same may go for TENOR NIVERNAIS. Brendan Powell has a live chance in his first festival ride aboard ACT OF KALANISI who runs well in these handicap hurdles, but there may be others that are better in the field. THIRD INTENTION was the very impressive winner of the National Spirit hurdle at Fontwell but hasnt really shined in big handicaps this season. DARE ME ran a nice race at Taunton and was squeezed out when passing a hurdle, whether he would have won that day is doubtful and doesnt look good enough for today. CAPE DUTCH has been improving all year and runs off a career high mark which looks testing enough even with Jack Quinlan's 5 pounds off. Chris Honour has one more win before he rides out his claim and retires, he rides his beloved POOLE MASTER and isnt without a chance but preference is for MEGASTAR to return to form with a bang. I just feel that a return to a big field will help him concentrate more on his racing and reproduce his best form. Saying that he could drop himself out and sulk.
1st - Megastar
2nd - Balgarry
3rd - Cape Dutch
4th - Carlito Brigante
4:40 - Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle
Alot of ante post bets have been for Alan King's VENDOR after he has been talking it up like defeat is out of the question. Comparing him to Grumeti and Balder Succes. Racing off 129 he could take all the beating. SOLIWERY was behind COLEBROOK at Sandown but he may be better for that run as he was very green and just couldnt get past. Saying that the latter mentioned was very tough and looks to have a live outside chance and could hold on for a place. LEMON DROP RED is fancied by Paul Webber after getting off the mark over hurdles last time at Southwell. He may just be a bit short of the best in this race however. ULCK DU LIN is somewhat of an unknown quantity in the fact that he hasnt been seen in England but was a smart horse over hurdles in France and if translating the form he is in with a great shout. GORGEOUS SIXTY was outclassed last time in a grade one and has quite a bit to find but a positive is that Ruby has chosen him over the others available to him. ARDLUI won really well at Newbury first time out but disappointed at Doncaster next time out, a return to his debut form would put him bang there and has a great shout. Noel Meade has booked Maurice Linehan to claim 7 pounds off his BAT MASTERSON which is a notable jockey booking. He seemed to fancy his horses chance but on the form book he may have something to find on the main protagonists. KAZLIAN hasnt beaten much so far but its the fashion he has won it in is that has caught my eye. He is really fancied by David Pipe and should go very close. Im going to take a chance on Ardlui today though as Alan King's second string.
1st - Ardlui
2nd - Vendor
3rd - Bat Masterson
4th - Ulck Du Lin
5:15 - Weatherbys Champion Bumper
Last year this was the only race won by an English trained horse on this day, hopefully today is a bit different. But Hobbs and Johnson could hold the key to this race again this year with VILLAGE VIC who has been running well in all races, just touched off last time at Newbury he could take the beating today. NEW YEARS EVE is a nice horse and is unbeaten but may be a bit inexperienced, saying that i fancy him to run a strong race. THE NEW ONE won a bumper here on New years day but im just questioning how strong that race really was with the selection beating chancery by further than the twiston davies horse. CHAMPAGNE FEVER is bought over by Willie Mullins and is ridden by Paddy, this will be the first time he has encountered good ground and could be anything really. SIR JOHNSON is probably the most experienced in the race but has won 4 from 4 and 12/1 does look a big price. ROYAL GUARDSMAN has lost to SIR JOHNSON and there is no real reason why he should reverse that form. But Village Vic is the selection.
1st - Village Vic
2nd - New Years Eve
3rd - Champagne fever
happy punting everyone
Tuesday 13 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Day 1
Ladies and Gentlemen, its here! The 2012 Cheltenham Festival begins today, a day where all the hype comes to an end, when all the talk finishes and the action begins. Sixty Thousand spectators are expected to take to Prestbury Park today. So without further ado lets kick on to the first day of the Cheltenham Festival
1:30 - Supreme Novices Hurdle
19 go to post for this years Supreme and it looks full to the seams of class, DARLAN is favourite for the race after his tumble last time at Newbury, if all is well with him he should go very close but the hill may find him out in this classier race. Two that are guaranteed to get up the hill are STEPS TO FREEDOM and PROSPECT WELLS who fought out a finish here in November in which the former got his head in front. Jessica Harrington's horse was giving away 3 pounds that day but hasn't run since, he should be fighting fit and Robbie Power thinks he has an outstanding chance. Paul Nicholls won this race last year with Al Ferof and has only one runner this year. Despite going down to his rival today he ran a race too bad to be true in a slowly run Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown, it turned out he suffered an injury that day and will be alot better today. He was behind runner up COLOUR SQUADRON that day who threw the race away by hanging violently to the left, this is the other way round today so that wont be a problem. The most worrying thing was his fall last time out and may struggle today. There is some each way support behind Noel Meade's DYLAN ROSS who has made a habit of coming second in big races, one of them seconds was behind MIDNIGHT GAME who carries the Gigginstown stud second colours today. His chance really depends on how he handles the better ground today but looks a bit short of the main characters here. The first string of the Gigginstown colours are carried by Davy Russell on TRIFOLIUM who entered notebooks for his display last time out when winning a Grade 2 at Punchestown, ground is an unknown though. Behind him the last day was SIMENON who was classy on the flat but needs to improve to get competitive today. TETLAMI is unbeaten over hurdles and is an excellent second string for Nicky Henderson, it would be no surprise to see him ruffle a few feathers today but may be short on class today. He has beaten VULCANITE who has done nothing wrong over hurdles since switching from the flat but will need to prove he is capable of winning a race of this quality. Last time out he was behind MONTBAZON who is held in high regard by Alan King and has gone from strength to strength. He emptied out quickly in his first run this season here but that could be to do with fitness, he does however need to prove his love for the course. GALILEO'S CHOICE was a good second in the Royal Bond before winning a Novice Hurdle very impressively, in truth he didnt beat much though, very strong each way claims but Dermot Weld thinks his chance may be hindered by inexperience of the hurdling game. Charlie Longsdon is a trainer in form and he saddles HAZY TOM in this race who looks exposed after losing the last two races and should be out of his depth here. ALLURE OF ILLUSION'S jumping let him down last time when he dead heated in a maiden hurdle, unless he improves its hard to fancy him today. Im going for Donald McCain and Jason Maguire to get off to a flyer with CINDERS AND ASHES who has had a more laid back campaign than some of the others in this race and has done nothing wrong on ground he doesnt really like. An unfortunate runner up in his hurdling debut after being murdered at a hurdle by Ted Spread and losing the best part of 10 lengths. He was still only beaten a length by Broadbackbob but since then is unbeaten and a return to good ground will bring endless improvement. Hope you were on ante-post when mentioned previously.
1st - Cinders And Ashes
2nd - Tetlami
3rd - Prospect Wells
2:05 - Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy
Only six go to post today in what you would imagine is down to the presence of the immense SPRINTER SACRE who has been electric in all his chases so far and claiming some notable scalps on his way. These include seasoned chaser French Opera in the Game Spirit at Newbury when winning effortlessly on the bridle. The worry the last couple of weeks has been if he will get up the hill after emptying out last year in the Supreme quickly. He looks a different horse than last year and is a year older though and is probably just hype in trying to get him beat. His main opponent is Paul Nicholls trained AL FEROF who won the Supreme this day last year. Unbeaten in Novice company this year but was beaten last time out against more experienced chasers in Somersby and Finian's Rainbow. Looking at it that was a really good performance to come third to them two considering what prices they are in their respected races. A good pace looks assured courtesy of CUE CARD who may help set the race up for Paul Nicholls charge however jumping doesnt come as natural to him as it does the other two. MENORAH was a high class hurdler for the past two seasons but has never really taken to chasing making notable mistakes in all his races when unseating at Exeter and falling at Doncaster last time out. For the last month the only thing he has done is jump fences and should be alot better today, but is still opposed. BLACKSTAIRMOUNTAIN was 7th in last years County Hurdle and looks up against it today. FOILDUBH looks to be here for minor place money but is no slouch. I find it very hard to take on Sprinter Sacre today though and the first banker should go in.
1st - Sprinter Sacre
2nd - Al Ferof
2:40 - JLT Specialty Handicap Chase
The first handicap of the 2012 festival and an ultra competitive one at that. We will start with the top weight QUANTITATIVEEASING who won the the Spinal Research handicap chase here in December he is up 10 pounds for that victory and for that rise looks up against it. The other Nicky Henderson horse is the novice MOSSLEY who hasnt taken to fences as would have hoped but isnt short on ability and any improvement should see him go close under a fighting weight. HOLD ON JULIO is potentially well handicapped and has won all his chases under rules including two big handicaps at Sandown. He should go very close today and will have no trouble up the hill after his Sandown wins and could bag back to back wins in this race for trainer Alan King. Nick Gifford has TULLAMORE DEW in this after he ran a blinder at Ascot last time out and it would be a fairytale were he to win today. FRUITY O'ROONEY has been in fantastic form this year and may have been closer last time out if it werent for a slipping saddle. He looks set to run another bold race but may struggle to get his head in front where it counts. PENTIFFIC ran a fantastic race in the Grimthorpe last time but did have a tough race that day and may just need a break after 2 quick runs. THE PACKAGE was done on the line at the Festival 2 years ago and hasnt been seen for 493 days, but fitness shouldnt be a problem here and if at his best should go close. NOLAND is getting a bit old in the tooth now but if he runs anywhere near his best today he should take all the beating and is an attractive each way price. ALFIE SHERRIN is a pound out of the handicap and gets in off a low weight but hasnt been in sparkling form, a return to his best will put him close in Jonjo's only runner of the day. OUR MICK ran a fantastic race last time out in the Scilly Isles behind For Non Stop and has been in really good form so far this year, so its hard to see him out of the places. Last years RSA 4th MAGNANIMITY has run some decent races this year but mistakes look to cost him each time, a clear round will take him close. A very strong preference is for BAILE ANRAI who was running a big race last time in the Reynoldstown when coming down, if he had stood up there he would be rated alot higher and off a fly weight today looks a steal. He was second behind Fingal Bay over hurdles beaten 6 lengths and Ian Williams was praying for him to get into this race. Best bet of the day
1st - Baile Anrai
2nd - Our Mick
3rd - Hold on Julio
4th - Noland
3:20 - Stan James Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
HURRICANE FLY looks good to take a step towards joining the greats today when looking to land his 2nd Champion hurdle. Off the course for a while he came back with a huge bang at Leopardstown when destroying a good field in the Irish Champion Hurdle. In that field was OSCARS WELL who hated the ground that day and will be much better for the better ground today but should still come up a bit short against the favourite today. Willie Mullins gelding's main threat today should be BINOCULAR who won this race 2 years ago and couldnt run in the race last year by no fault of his own. He looked back near his best when winning the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton last time. In that race was CELESTIAL HALO who is a more than admirable horse, not the force of old but proved he still has some sparkle when winning a handicap under top weight at Newbury. This however may be too much for him. Another horse that has seen BINOCULAR'S backside this year is Christmas Hurdle runner up ROCK ON RUBY who will be more suited by 2 miles round here than the same trip at Kempton. Probably not good enough to win today but has strong each way claims. OVERTURN is one of the toughest horses in training and has beaten Nicky Henderson's horse this season in the Fighting Fifth. A break since his last run in the Christmas Hurdle when looking like he needed a break badly, a fresh horse should make a bold show but shouldnt be good enough here. A neck behind him in the International Hurdle was BRAMPOUR who has won 2 big handicaps this year and was running on under top weight last time out behind ZARKANDAR in the Betfair hurdle at Newbury. Last years unbeaten Triumph hurdle winner should give a good account of himself but may find it a bit tough at the end of the race. ZAIDPOUR is a very good horse in his own right but looks totally ground dependent and this is not what he wants today. KALANN is the other runner in the field and is a huge price for a horse that is a course and distance winner and prefers good ground. Saying that he is out of his depth here and shouldnt land a blow. HURRICANE FLY should take all the beating today.
1st - Hurricane Fly
2nd - Rock On Ruby
3rd - Binocular
4:00 - Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase
A race dominated over the years by Enda Bolger and JP Mcmanus, as of late they havent had it their own way though since Willie Mullins has entered these races. WEDGER PARDY will take them along today and was running a big race when all but 3 of the field took the wrong course at Cheltenham in the last cross country race. That was eventually won by GARDE CHAMPETRE who could probably run round this course blindfolded he has done it that many times, he is looking a bit old in the tooth now and shouldnt reverse the form with SCOTSIRISH who was fancied in a Ryanair at one time in his career. Strongly fancied by the Irish he looks to have an outstanding chance and should take all the beating. GONE TO LUNCH tries this race for the first time in his career and will be interesting if taking to the fences, but it is a gamble however. DOUBLE DIZZY always runs his race and was 3rd here in November, on that form he is a very live contender and should not be dismissed. DREAM ALLIANCE has won a Welsh National but should struggle against these opponents today. BALTHAZAR KING has never completed a cross country race when leaving Richard Johnson red faced after taking the wrong course and taking most of the field with him last time. UNCLE JUNIOR has won over this course and distance today and is very high in the weights, even with Emmet Mullins taking 3 pounds off his back. Last years winner SIZING AUSTRALIA should be bang there at the end and he loves this course. A positive prep run over hurdles he should be very fit today and go very close. Preference today is for last years 4th horse who has been laid out for this race all year, this horse is MALJIMAR who should go very close
1st - Maljimar
2nd - Double Dizzy
3rd - Sizing Australia
4th - Garde Champetre
4:40 - OLBG David Nicholson Mares Hurdle
Well this race shouldnt take too long to evaluate as nothing should get near the superstar mare QUEVEGA who has beaten everything to come at her in this race for the last 3 years without lifting an eyelid. It would be one of the major shocks of the festival were she to get beat. In theory the others are playing for the minor prize money. SHOP DJ is one coming in for each way support this morning after a season chasing. She won her prep race at Dundalk on the flat and should be in with a very strong each way chance. WHAT A CHARM won the Fred Winter last year but since then has been a bit disappointing and will need to improve to land a blow here. KENTFORD GREY LADY has gone from strength to strength this year and looks the strongest chance of a place in this field. She was behind VIOLIN DAVIS at Ascot but that wasnt a true run race and it turned into a sprint at the end. ALASI is a gorgeous mare and was just run out of a place last year and should run her race again this year after going chasing. SWINCOMBE FLAME won the Lanzarote in brave fashion before a 3rd at Ascot, she may struggle today when upped in class and others are preferred. but QUEVEGA is the obvious selection and should win her 4th consecutive race.
1st - Quevega
2nd - Alasi
3rd - Kentford Grey Lady
5:15 - Pulteney Land Investment Novices Handicap Chase
HUNT BALL carries 12 stone here but he doesnt actually have to give too much weight away with the bottom weight carrying only 11-4. Upped 70 pounds this year it would take a monumental effort to win today but has shown no sign of stopping his improvement yet. TRIOLO D'ALENE looks set to go off favourite and has had only one run in England which he won at Ascot, in that race he beat ACKERTAC into second place after producing a better jump at the last. Nigel Twiston Davies' charge has to be considered after Sam said it was his best chance on the first day. BLESS THE WINGS has won over course and distance and looks set to run a big race again and form could be franked by Our Mick earlier on. THAT'LL DO runs for the Champion Trainer and has to be respected, vibes from this stable are good about the horse so expect a good show from him today. VINO GRIEGO is a pound lower than he was when second at Ascot should run a good race again, but he has been out of form since his 2nd behind The Minack. BATTLE GROUP has a mind of his own and cant be trusted, if he puts his best foot forward though he could win this easily. MIC'S DELIGHT is a horse going the right way over fences and although the big step up in class he should give another good account of himself, but may find one or two too good today. Aidan Coleman has claimed CARRICKBOY as his best chance of the first day and a win at Hereford the other day boosts his credentials, five pound penalty carried today though. EDUCATED EVANS has been in flying form this year and if all is well with him should be bang there, though he is Twiston-Davies' second string. We will take a chance on ACKERTAC today though.
1st - Ackertac
2nd - Triolo D'alene
3rd - Carrickboy
4th - That'll do
I hope everyone has a fantastic cheltenham festival and lets give the bookies a bashing!
Happy Punting
1:30 - Supreme Novices Hurdle
19 go to post for this years Supreme and it looks full to the seams of class, DARLAN is favourite for the race after his tumble last time at Newbury, if all is well with him he should go very close but the hill may find him out in this classier race. Two that are guaranteed to get up the hill are STEPS TO FREEDOM and PROSPECT WELLS who fought out a finish here in November in which the former got his head in front. Jessica Harrington's horse was giving away 3 pounds that day but hasn't run since, he should be fighting fit and Robbie Power thinks he has an outstanding chance. Paul Nicholls won this race last year with Al Ferof and has only one runner this year. Despite going down to his rival today he ran a race too bad to be true in a slowly run Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown, it turned out he suffered an injury that day and will be alot better today. He was behind runner up COLOUR SQUADRON that day who threw the race away by hanging violently to the left, this is the other way round today so that wont be a problem. The most worrying thing was his fall last time out and may struggle today. There is some each way support behind Noel Meade's DYLAN ROSS who has made a habit of coming second in big races, one of them seconds was behind MIDNIGHT GAME who carries the Gigginstown stud second colours today. His chance really depends on how he handles the better ground today but looks a bit short of the main characters here. The first string of the Gigginstown colours are carried by Davy Russell on TRIFOLIUM who entered notebooks for his display last time out when winning a Grade 2 at Punchestown, ground is an unknown though. Behind him the last day was SIMENON who was classy on the flat but needs to improve to get competitive today. TETLAMI is unbeaten over hurdles and is an excellent second string for Nicky Henderson, it would be no surprise to see him ruffle a few feathers today but may be short on class today. He has beaten VULCANITE who has done nothing wrong over hurdles since switching from the flat but will need to prove he is capable of winning a race of this quality. Last time out he was behind MONTBAZON who is held in high regard by Alan King and has gone from strength to strength. He emptied out quickly in his first run this season here but that could be to do with fitness, he does however need to prove his love for the course. GALILEO'S CHOICE was a good second in the Royal Bond before winning a Novice Hurdle very impressively, in truth he didnt beat much though, very strong each way claims but Dermot Weld thinks his chance may be hindered by inexperience of the hurdling game. Charlie Longsdon is a trainer in form and he saddles HAZY TOM in this race who looks exposed after losing the last two races and should be out of his depth here. ALLURE OF ILLUSION'S jumping let him down last time when he dead heated in a maiden hurdle, unless he improves its hard to fancy him today. Im going for Donald McCain and Jason Maguire to get off to a flyer with CINDERS AND ASHES who has had a more laid back campaign than some of the others in this race and has done nothing wrong on ground he doesnt really like. An unfortunate runner up in his hurdling debut after being murdered at a hurdle by Ted Spread and losing the best part of 10 lengths. He was still only beaten a length by Broadbackbob but since then is unbeaten and a return to good ground will bring endless improvement. Hope you were on ante-post when mentioned previously.
1st - Cinders And Ashes
2nd - Tetlami
3rd - Prospect Wells
2:05 - Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy
Only six go to post today in what you would imagine is down to the presence of the immense SPRINTER SACRE who has been electric in all his chases so far and claiming some notable scalps on his way. These include seasoned chaser French Opera in the Game Spirit at Newbury when winning effortlessly on the bridle. The worry the last couple of weeks has been if he will get up the hill after emptying out last year in the Supreme quickly. He looks a different horse than last year and is a year older though and is probably just hype in trying to get him beat. His main opponent is Paul Nicholls trained AL FEROF who won the Supreme this day last year. Unbeaten in Novice company this year but was beaten last time out against more experienced chasers in Somersby and Finian's Rainbow. Looking at it that was a really good performance to come third to them two considering what prices they are in their respected races. A good pace looks assured courtesy of CUE CARD who may help set the race up for Paul Nicholls charge however jumping doesnt come as natural to him as it does the other two. MENORAH was a high class hurdler for the past two seasons but has never really taken to chasing making notable mistakes in all his races when unseating at Exeter and falling at Doncaster last time out. For the last month the only thing he has done is jump fences and should be alot better today, but is still opposed. BLACKSTAIRMOUNTAIN was 7th in last years County Hurdle and looks up against it today. FOILDUBH looks to be here for minor place money but is no slouch. I find it very hard to take on Sprinter Sacre today though and the first banker should go in.
1st - Sprinter Sacre
2nd - Al Ferof
2:40 - JLT Specialty Handicap Chase
The first handicap of the 2012 festival and an ultra competitive one at that. We will start with the top weight QUANTITATIVEEASING who won the the Spinal Research handicap chase here in December he is up 10 pounds for that victory and for that rise looks up against it. The other Nicky Henderson horse is the novice MOSSLEY who hasnt taken to fences as would have hoped but isnt short on ability and any improvement should see him go close under a fighting weight. HOLD ON JULIO is potentially well handicapped and has won all his chases under rules including two big handicaps at Sandown. He should go very close today and will have no trouble up the hill after his Sandown wins and could bag back to back wins in this race for trainer Alan King. Nick Gifford has TULLAMORE DEW in this after he ran a blinder at Ascot last time out and it would be a fairytale were he to win today. FRUITY O'ROONEY has been in fantastic form this year and may have been closer last time out if it werent for a slipping saddle. He looks set to run another bold race but may struggle to get his head in front where it counts. PENTIFFIC ran a fantastic race in the Grimthorpe last time but did have a tough race that day and may just need a break after 2 quick runs. THE PACKAGE was done on the line at the Festival 2 years ago and hasnt been seen for 493 days, but fitness shouldnt be a problem here and if at his best should go close. NOLAND is getting a bit old in the tooth now but if he runs anywhere near his best today he should take all the beating and is an attractive each way price. ALFIE SHERRIN is a pound out of the handicap and gets in off a low weight but hasnt been in sparkling form, a return to his best will put him close in Jonjo's only runner of the day. OUR MICK ran a fantastic race last time out in the Scilly Isles behind For Non Stop and has been in really good form so far this year, so its hard to see him out of the places. Last years RSA 4th MAGNANIMITY has run some decent races this year but mistakes look to cost him each time, a clear round will take him close. A very strong preference is for BAILE ANRAI who was running a big race last time in the Reynoldstown when coming down, if he had stood up there he would be rated alot higher and off a fly weight today looks a steal. He was second behind Fingal Bay over hurdles beaten 6 lengths and Ian Williams was praying for him to get into this race. Best bet of the day
1st - Baile Anrai
2nd - Our Mick
3rd - Hold on Julio
4th - Noland
3:20 - Stan James Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy
HURRICANE FLY looks good to take a step towards joining the greats today when looking to land his 2nd Champion hurdle. Off the course for a while he came back with a huge bang at Leopardstown when destroying a good field in the Irish Champion Hurdle. In that field was OSCARS WELL who hated the ground that day and will be much better for the better ground today but should still come up a bit short against the favourite today. Willie Mullins gelding's main threat today should be BINOCULAR who won this race 2 years ago and couldnt run in the race last year by no fault of his own. He looked back near his best when winning the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton last time. In that race was CELESTIAL HALO who is a more than admirable horse, not the force of old but proved he still has some sparkle when winning a handicap under top weight at Newbury. This however may be too much for him. Another horse that has seen BINOCULAR'S backside this year is Christmas Hurdle runner up ROCK ON RUBY who will be more suited by 2 miles round here than the same trip at Kempton. Probably not good enough to win today but has strong each way claims. OVERTURN is one of the toughest horses in training and has beaten Nicky Henderson's horse this season in the Fighting Fifth. A break since his last run in the Christmas Hurdle when looking like he needed a break badly, a fresh horse should make a bold show but shouldnt be good enough here. A neck behind him in the International Hurdle was BRAMPOUR who has won 2 big handicaps this year and was running on under top weight last time out behind ZARKANDAR in the Betfair hurdle at Newbury. Last years unbeaten Triumph hurdle winner should give a good account of himself but may find it a bit tough at the end of the race. ZAIDPOUR is a very good horse in his own right but looks totally ground dependent and this is not what he wants today. KALANN is the other runner in the field and is a huge price for a horse that is a course and distance winner and prefers good ground. Saying that he is out of his depth here and shouldnt land a blow. HURRICANE FLY should take all the beating today.
1st - Hurricane Fly
2nd - Rock On Ruby
3rd - Binocular
4:00 - Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase
A race dominated over the years by Enda Bolger and JP Mcmanus, as of late they havent had it their own way though since Willie Mullins has entered these races. WEDGER PARDY will take them along today and was running a big race when all but 3 of the field took the wrong course at Cheltenham in the last cross country race. That was eventually won by GARDE CHAMPETRE who could probably run round this course blindfolded he has done it that many times, he is looking a bit old in the tooth now and shouldnt reverse the form with SCOTSIRISH who was fancied in a Ryanair at one time in his career. Strongly fancied by the Irish he looks to have an outstanding chance and should take all the beating. GONE TO LUNCH tries this race for the first time in his career and will be interesting if taking to the fences, but it is a gamble however. DOUBLE DIZZY always runs his race and was 3rd here in November, on that form he is a very live contender and should not be dismissed. DREAM ALLIANCE has won a Welsh National but should struggle against these opponents today. BALTHAZAR KING has never completed a cross country race when leaving Richard Johnson red faced after taking the wrong course and taking most of the field with him last time. UNCLE JUNIOR has won over this course and distance today and is very high in the weights, even with Emmet Mullins taking 3 pounds off his back. Last years winner SIZING AUSTRALIA should be bang there at the end and he loves this course. A positive prep run over hurdles he should be very fit today and go very close. Preference today is for last years 4th horse who has been laid out for this race all year, this horse is MALJIMAR who should go very close
1st - Maljimar
2nd - Double Dizzy
3rd - Sizing Australia
4th - Garde Champetre
4:40 - OLBG David Nicholson Mares Hurdle
Well this race shouldnt take too long to evaluate as nothing should get near the superstar mare QUEVEGA who has beaten everything to come at her in this race for the last 3 years without lifting an eyelid. It would be one of the major shocks of the festival were she to get beat. In theory the others are playing for the minor prize money. SHOP DJ is one coming in for each way support this morning after a season chasing. She won her prep race at Dundalk on the flat and should be in with a very strong each way chance. WHAT A CHARM won the Fred Winter last year but since then has been a bit disappointing and will need to improve to land a blow here. KENTFORD GREY LADY has gone from strength to strength this year and looks the strongest chance of a place in this field. She was behind VIOLIN DAVIS at Ascot but that wasnt a true run race and it turned into a sprint at the end. ALASI is a gorgeous mare and was just run out of a place last year and should run her race again this year after going chasing. SWINCOMBE FLAME won the Lanzarote in brave fashion before a 3rd at Ascot, she may struggle today when upped in class and others are preferred. but QUEVEGA is the obvious selection and should win her 4th consecutive race.
1st - Quevega
2nd - Alasi
3rd - Kentford Grey Lady
5:15 - Pulteney Land Investment Novices Handicap Chase
HUNT BALL carries 12 stone here but he doesnt actually have to give too much weight away with the bottom weight carrying only 11-4. Upped 70 pounds this year it would take a monumental effort to win today but has shown no sign of stopping his improvement yet. TRIOLO D'ALENE looks set to go off favourite and has had only one run in England which he won at Ascot, in that race he beat ACKERTAC into second place after producing a better jump at the last. Nigel Twiston Davies' charge has to be considered after Sam said it was his best chance on the first day. BLESS THE WINGS has won over course and distance and looks set to run a big race again and form could be franked by Our Mick earlier on. THAT'LL DO runs for the Champion Trainer and has to be respected, vibes from this stable are good about the horse so expect a good show from him today. VINO GRIEGO is a pound lower than he was when second at Ascot should run a good race again, but he has been out of form since his 2nd behind The Minack. BATTLE GROUP has a mind of his own and cant be trusted, if he puts his best foot forward though he could win this easily. MIC'S DELIGHT is a horse going the right way over fences and although the big step up in class he should give another good account of himself, but may find one or two too good today. Aidan Coleman has claimed CARRICKBOY as his best chance of the first day and a win at Hereford the other day boosts his credentials, five pound penalty carried today though. EDUCATED EVANS has been in flying form this year and if all is well with him should be bang there, though he is Twiston-Davies' second string. We will take a chance on ACKERTAC today though.
1st - Ackertac
2nd - Triolo D'alene
3rd - Carrickboy
4th - That'll do
I hope everyone has a fantastic cheltenham festival and lets give the bookies a bashing!
Happy Punting
Saturday 10 March 2012
Sandown Park - Imperial Cup Day
A good day of racing at Sandown today to warm us up for Cheltenham in the right fashion. Most notably the Imperial Cup which is the first part of the £75000 Sunderlands bonus if the winner of the race today can go on and win any race at the festival next week. Without further ado lets crack on with the first race.
2:05
A big handicap to start the day off and a few very interesting horses, none more so than DUALLA LORD from the Paul Nicholls yard and has been running well as of late. He was highly tried earlier in the season when running over fences against Grand Crus but unseating that day. first time in a handicap today and should go close but a place may be his best claim today. AMBION WOOD takes a drop in trip today but is off top weight and may find life tough despite being in great form this year. However in truth he doesnt have to give too much weight away. PRESENTING ACE is the one all the money has come for this and like the first mentioned is in a handicap for the first time, his novice form hasnt been too flattering but the market support is very interesting. ELSAFEER has been finding life a bit tough off his higher handicap rating but is slipping down to a winning mark. JUMPS ROAD hails from the in form Colin Tizzard stable and is highly thought of but has a bit to find on Warwick form with a couple of today's rivals. OFF THE GROUND won a Novice Handicap round here last month and is up 6 pounds for that win, the second has since franked the form, though not in a good race. With that he may be found wanting here. Nicky Henderson has two in the race with his first string being SPEED MASTER who also goes handicapping for the first time today, he has been winning Novice events nicely but in truth they havent been the strongest races and this is a big step up in class on them performances. Henderson's second string is THANKS FOR COMING who has been running well as of late and isnt without a chance at a big enough price. CARRIGMORNA KING won a competitive novice hurdle at Newbury back in January and like alot of these goes handicapping for the first time and has the burden of carrying the 'Pricewise' tag. MERRY KING had JUMPS ROAD back in third in his last run and the latter should reverse that form on paper. But with 17 points in between them in the betting you'd feel that Jonjo expect a bit more from his horse. Preference is for Nick Gifford's KUILSRIVER who is yet to win a race in his career but has been running in some very good company. He ran well in the Lanzarote hurdle off a 3 pound higher mark than today and should go very close.
2:40
All the money this morning has been for DOVER'S HILL who is down to a winning mark nowadays after just slipping down the handicap slowly but surely, however he hasnt really been running with much encouragement lately and may be best watched. BALLYFOY ran a very good race at Fontwell over hurdles in the week just failing to get up on the line, as long as that race hasnt taken too much out of him he should be thereabouts. THE SAWYER is an admirable sort who returns to more realistic company today and has been running well this year, he always gives his all when he runs and loves this rider, one for the shortlist. He was ahead of PROPHETE DE GUYE last time out and it should be the same outcome today, whether they are good enough to get involved when it matters is another question. QHILIMAR has top weight to worry about but loves it round here and shouldnt be too far away. Sue Smith brings down AURORA'S ENCORE who usually comes into his own this time of year but has been badly out of sorts as of late and has something to prove. RICHARD'S SUNDANCE is 6 pounds better off with MARTY'S MISSION today than when they last met at this course, and for that reason we shall side with the former today. Not a young horse by any stretch of the imagination anymore but has been enjoying his racing this year and running some very good races in better company than this, could take all the beating.
3:15
Last week NAMPOUR got us a place at nice odds and looks set to run another nice race after finding just one too good at Newbury, he fell in the race at Taunton won by SIRE DE GRUGY who has been very well in himself this year and will be suited by a flat out gallop, only raised 6 pounds for his win and looks a good bet again this time round. Venetia Williams sends two to this race CICERON and ART PROFESSOR, Aidan Coleman has chosen the latter to ride on grounds that he is 'an easier ride'. The former won a big handicap here earlier in the year but is tough to find right and Coleman has said both are going for place claims. Nicky Henderson also sends two to post this year, his first string being CELTUS who never really took to fences last time and was soundly beaten out of sight, back to hurdles today but he will need to step up his game if he is to reverse form with SIRE DE GRUGY in his earlier years. Hendersons second string is FIRST IN THE QUEUE who's best form this season was when he went down by a head at Cheltenham and is slowly coming back down the weights while still not disgracing himself. Looks to be up against it though. The Pipe family have always targeted the Sunderlands bonus through the years and this year is no different with David sending MASTER OF ARTS here who was last seen over hurdles when 11th in the Triumph hurdle in 2009. It will be interesting to see how he adapts back to hurdling from the flat but the market support this week is encouraging. ILE DE RE won here last time out but in truth it wasnt the strongest race and will have to step up markedly today if he is to land this race. DEVIL TO PAY represents the Alan King stable and is 3 pounds better off on his run behind SIRE DE GRUGY and has more of a chance than Kempton winner LUCAINDUBAI who ran well for a long way in the Kingwell last time until class told. PATEESE wants the ground alot softer than it is today but will have strong place claims whereas JOHNS SPIRIT doesnt look good enough. As much as i hate myself for it i cant get away from TED SPREAD this afternoon after seeing his last win at Taunton in his first handicap, and i would really fancy him to land the Sunderlands bonus were he to win today.
3:50
THE WEE LASS won her only start nicely at Taunton at fancy odds and is possibly over priced today, she had GOWITHDFLO behind her that day and its hard to see that form being reversed, especially if the former improves for her first run. UMADACHAR is a very highly thought of filly and made amends for fluffing her lines first time up with a win second time round and it will be interesting to see how she performs today. BUXOM beat GINGER FIZZ by four lengths on debut and improved to win again at Ludlow in her second run, further improvement would put her bang there with a chance. THE WICKED KEEPER is alot better off than CALL ME A STAR on their last run together thanks to a 10 pound claimer, there may still be more to come from Alan Kings horse today though and is fancied ahead of Martin Keighleys horse. TARADREWE won well first time out and Aidan Coleman booked to ride is a very positive booking today. She will need to improve though. A chance is taken on UMADACHAR though today.
4:25
A race that revolves all around SANCTUAIRE who was oh so impressive on his chase debut and earned quotes of 16/1 for the Arkle afterwards. Paul Nicholls has however opted not to run him there and Aintree looks the target for him. One word of warning, he can have a mind of his own and give the others a 25 length lead sometimes but was on better behaviour last time and looks hard to beat. GRACCHUS is his main rival and is a good horse in his own right but really shouldnt be good enough to beat the favourite if at his best. The same applies for the other two despite getting weight from the two mentioned.
5:00
A mix of horses that are bang in form and horribly out of form in this race today, INSIDE DEALER is one of those in form and can be forgiven his last run. Would maybe have won at Kempton in December but for being murdered by Fruity O'rooney 2 from home. COOL FRIEND ran into the huge improver Hunt Ball last time and on that form easily holds PANJO BERE who doesnt look the force of old. The former looks well handicapped after not being raised for his 2nd last time out. CALUSA CALDERA and COIS FARRAIG have been badly out of form lately and need to prove alot today. ALDERTUNE always seems to find one too good in a race and today may not be any different. Sue Smiths second runner of the day is YOU KNOW YOURSELF and Shane Byrne gets on very well with him, you wouldnt imagine Sue Smith would travel all this way for nothing so he gets the nod today.
as always happy punting
NAP - Ted Spread
NB - Kuilsriver
2:05
A big handicap to start the day off and a few very interesting horses, none more so than DUALLA LORD from the Paul Nicholls yard and has been running well as of late. He was highly tried earlier in the season when running over fences against Grand Crus but unseating that day. first time in a handicap today and should go close but a place may be his best claim today. AMBION WOOD takes a drop in trip today but is off top weight and may find life tough despite being in great form this year. However in truth he doesnt have to give too much weight away. PRESENTING ACE is the one all the money has come for this and like the first mentioned is in a handicap for the first time, his novice form hasnt been too flattering but the market support is very interesting. ELSAFEER has been finding life a bit tough off his higher handicap rating but is slipping down to a winning mark. JUMPS ROAD hails from the in form Colin Tizzard stable and is highly thought of but has a bit to find on Warwick form with a couple of today's rivals. OFF THE GROUND won a Novice Handicap round here last month and is up 6 pounds for that win, the second has since franked the form, though not in a good race. With that he may be found wanting here. Nicky Henderson has two in the race with his first string being SPEED MASTER who also goes handicapping for the first time today, he has been winning Novice events nicely but in truth they havent been the strongest races and this is a big step up in class on them performances. Henderson's second string is THANKS FOR COMING who has been running well as of late and isnt without a chance at a big enough price. CARRIGMORNA KING won a competitive novice hurdle at Newbury back in January and like alot of these goes handicapping for the first time and has the burden of carrying the 'Pricewise' tag. MERRY KING had JUMPS ROAD back in third in his last run and the latter should reverse that form on paper. But with 17 points in between them in the betting you'd feel that Jonjo expect a bit more from his horse. Preference is for Nick Gifford's KUILSRIVER who is yet to win a race in his career but has been running in some very good company. He ran well in the Lanzarote hurdle off a 3 pound higher mark than today and should go very close.
2:40
All the money this morning has been for DOVER'S HILL who is down to a winning mark nowadays after just slipping down the handicap slowly but surely, however he hasnt really been running with much encouragement lately and may be best watched. BALLYFOY ran a very good race at Fontwell over hurdles in the week just failing to get up on the line, as long as that race hasnt taken too much out of him he should be thereabouts. THE SAWYER is an admirable sort who returns to more realistic company today and has been running well this year, he always gives his all when he runs and loves this rider, one for the shortlist. He was ahead of PROPHETE DE GUYE last time out and it should be the same outcome today, whether they are good enough to get involved when it matters is another question. QHILIMAR has top weight to worry about but loves it round here and shouldnt be too far away. Sue Smith brings down AURORA'S ENCORE who usually comes into his own this time of year but has been badly out of sorts as of late and has something to prove. RICHARD'S SUNDANCE is 6 pounds better off with MARTY'S MISSION today than when they last met at this course, and for that reason we shall side with the former today. Not a young horse by any stretch of the imagination anymore but has been enjoying his racing this year and running some very good races in better company than this, could take all the beating.
3:15
Last week NAMPOUR got us a place at nice odds and looks set to run another nice race after finding just one too good at Newbury, he fell in the race at Taunton won by SIRE DE GRUGY who has been very well in himself this year and will be suited by a flat out gallop, only raised 6 pounds for his win and looks a good bet again this time round. Venetia Williams sends two to this race CICERON and ART PROFESSOR, Aidan Coleman has chosen the latter to ride on grounds that he is 'an easier ride'. The former won a big handicap here earlier in the year but is tough to find right and Coleman has said both are going for place claims. Nicky Henderson also sends two to post this year, his first string being CELTUS who never really took to fences last time and was soundly beaten out of sight, back to hurdles today but he will need to step up his game if he is to reverse form with SIRE DE GRUGY in his earlier years. Hendersons second string is FIRST IN THE QUEUE who's best form this season was when he went down by a head at Cheltenham and is slowly coming back down the weights while still not disgracing himself. Looks to be up against it though. The Pipe family have always targeted the Sunderlands bonus through the years and this year is no different with David sending MASTER OF ARTS here who was last seen over hurdles when 11th in the Triumph hurdle in 2009. It will be interesting to see how he adapts back to hurdling from the flat but the market support this week is encouraging. ILE DE RE won here last time out but in truth it wasnt the strongest race and will have to step up markedly today if he is to land this race. DEVIL TO PAY represents the Alan King stable and is 3 pounds better off on his run behind SIRE DE GRUGY and has more of a chance than Kempton winner LUCAINDUBAI who ran well for a long way in the Kingwell last time until class told. PATEESE wants the ground alot softer than it is today but will have strong place claims whereas JOHNS SPIRIT doesnt look good enough. As much as i hate myself for it i cant get away from TED SPREAD this afternoon after seeing his last win at Taunton in his first handicap, and i would really fancy him to land the Sunderlands bonus were he to win today.
3:50
THE WEE LASS won her only start nicely at Taunton at fancy odds and is possibly over priced today, she had GOWITHDFLO behind her that day and its hard to see that form being reversed, especially if the former improves for her first run. UMADACHAR is a very highly thought of filly and made amends for fluffing her lines first time up with a win second time round and it will be interesting to see how she performs today. BUXOM beat GINGER FIZZ by four lengths on debut and improved to win again at Ludlow in her second run, further improvement would put her bang there with a chance. THE WICKED KEEPER is alot better off than CALL ME A STAR on their last run together thanks to a 10 pound claimer, there may still be more to come from Alan Kings horse today though and is fancied ahead of Martin Keighleys horse. TARADREWE won well first time out and Aidan Coleman booked to ride is a very positive booking today. She will need to improve though. A chance is taken on UMADACHAR though today.
4:25
A race that revolves all around SANCTUAIRE who was oh so impressive on his chase debut and earned quotes of 16/1 for the Arkle afterwards. Paul Nicholls has however opted not to run him there and Aintree looks the target for him. One word of warning, he can have a mind of his own and give the others a 25 length lead sometimes but was on better behaviour last time and looks hard to beat. GRACCHUS is his main rival and is a good horse in his own right but really shouldnt be good enough to beat the favourite if at his best. The same applies for the other two despite getting weight from the two mentioned.
5:00
A mix of horses that are bang in form and horribly out of form in this race today, INSIDE DEALER is one of those in form and can be forgiven his last run. Would maybe have won at Kempton in December but for being murdered by Fruity O'rooney 2 from home. COOL FRIEND ran into the huge improver Hunt Ball last time and on that form easily holds PANJO BERE who doesnt look the force of old. The former looks well handicapped after not being raised for his 2nd last time out. CALUSA CALDERA and COIS FARRAIG have been badly out of form lately and need to prove alot today. ALDERTUNE always seems to find one too good in a race and today may not be any different. Sue Smiths second runner of the day is YOU KNOW YOURSELF and Shane Byrne gets on very well with him, you wouldnt imagine Sue Smith would travel all this way for nothing so he gets the nod today.
as always happy punting
NAP - Ted Spread
NB - Kuilsriver
Friday 9 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Memory Number 5
Yesterday we saw the gritty Edredon Bleu battle for his life to win the Champion Chase in 2000. I hope these videos are getting everyone in the mood for cheltenham after seeing, Barizan, Istabraq, Denman and of course Edredon Bleu in classic festival races. Today is no exception and a heart warming one at that. It was 2005 and the Champion Chase was to be contested between three horses. They were the young up and coming Well Chief, defending Champion Azertyuiop and veteran Moscow Flyer. The latter was the 6/4 favourite and this probably going to be his last real attempt at the Cheltenham Festival. Take a look what happened.
Moscow Flyer - 2005 Queen Mother Champion Chase
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kPtQN0eVMo
The race all started to unfold after Azertyuiop made a terrible mistake at the water jump after leaving his legs behind leaving himself with a mountain to climb. From there on in it was Well Chief vs Moscow Flyer. Barry Geraghty sent Moscow Flyer to the front coming down the hill but was stalked all the time by Timmy Murphy and Well Chief. Moscow Flyer seemed to take a length out of his rivals at the third last while his main opponent was slow compared to the veteran. The roars of the crowd began to bellow out between the 3rd last and 2nd last fences and all of a sudden Timmy Murphy was working over Well Chief but turning for home the old boy only had a lead of a length and was under maximum pressure. A better jump from Moscow Flyer seemed to win the race for him as Well Chief couldnt close anymore and Moscow Flyer went on to win by 2 lengths much to the delight of the Cheltenham crowd. A golden time for the 2 mile chase division!
Moscow Flyer - 2005 Queen Mother Champion Chase
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kPtQN0eVMo
The race all started to unfold after Azertyuiop made a terrible mistake at the water jump after leaving his legs behind leaving himself with a mountain to climb. From there on in it was Well Chief vs Moscow Flyer. Barry Geraghty sent Moscow Flyer to the front coming down the hill but was stalked all the time by Timmy Murphy and Well Chief. Moscow Flyer seemed to take a length out of his rivals at the third last while his main opponent was slow compared to the veteran. The roars of the crowd began to bellow out between the 3rd last and 2nd last fences and all of a sudden Timmy Murphy was working over Well Chief but turning for home the old boy only had a lead of a length and was under maximum pressure. A better jump from Moscow Flyer seemed to win the race for him as Well Chief couldnt close anymore and Moscow Flyer went on to win by 2 lengths much to the delight of the Cheltenham crowd. A golden time for the 2 mile chase division!
Thursday 8 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Memory Number 4
Hope everyone enjoyed watching the powerhouse that is Denman demolish a classy Gold Cup field yesterday. Staying over fences today but down in trip to the Queen Mother Champion Chase, the 2000 renewal to be exact. A race contested by the three market leaders, Flagship Uberalles, Edredon Bleu and Direct Route. The rest is as they say, history.
Edredon Bleu - Queen Mother Champion Chase 2000
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqopqcEhjdc
One of the most thrilling finishes in Festival history was fought out on March 15th 2000 between Edredon Bleu and Direct Route. Coming down the hill Tony Mccoy was driving along Edredon Bleu with Flagship Uberalles, Direct Route and The Outback Way still going powerfully in behind. Every fence he seemed to gain a length on his rivals while he drew mistakes out of each of them. Direct Route went through the top of the third last and at the second last Flagship Uberalles was down on his nose, all the time while Edredon Bleu didnt touch a twig and continued to grind it out. Three in a line jumped the last with Norman Williamson driving Direct Route up between his rivals. Flagship Uberalles gave way after the last which left the favourite and second favourite to fight out an epic. Storming Norman had looked to have got Direct Route up 50 yards from the line, but nobody told Edredon Bleu the script as he battled back from half a length down to land the race on the line. A true Cheltenham epic!!
Edredon Bleu - Queen Mother Champion Chase 2000
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqopqcEhjdc
One of the most thrilling finishes in Festival history was fought out on March 15th 2000 between Edredon Bleu and Direct Route. Coming down the hill Tony Mccoy was driving along Edredon Bleu with Flagship Uberalles, Direct Route and The Outback Way still going powerfully in behind. Every fence he seemed to gain a length on his rivals while he drew mistakes out of each of them. Direct Route went through the top of the third last and at the second last Flagship Uberalles was down on his nose, all the time while Edredon Bleu didnt touch a twig and continued to grind it out. Three in a line jumped the last with Norman Williamson driving Direct Route up between his rivals. Flagship Uberalles gave way after the last which left the favourite and second favourite to fight out an epic. Storming Norman had looked to have got Direct Route up 50 yards from the line, but nobody told Edredon Bleu the script as he battled back from half a length down to land the race on the line. A true Cheltenham epic!!
Wednesday 7 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Memory Number 3
I hope watching Istabraq and Barizan over the last two days have made you as happy as they made me, another cracker today but over fences this time, Nicknamed 'The Tank' Denman pounded his rivals into submission in two Hennessy's and a Gold cup. Today we honour his 2008 Gold Cup demolition job.
Denman - 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIQTzaCWnmA
A race that always gives you chills down your back when you watch it, the most notable thing for me is how the crowd start to roar when Denman jumps 4 from home. An awesome ride from Sam Thomas in one of the best performances in Festival history. Richard Hoiles says is best 'relentless, remorseless have pounded Kauto Star into submission, the answer is DENMAN, Denman won the Gold Cup!'. If you can hear him over the crowd that is. Happy retirement Denman.
Denman - 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIQTzaCWnmA
A race that always gives you chills down your back when you watch it, the most notable thing for me is how the crowd start to roar when Denman jumps 4 from home. An awesome ride from Sam Thomas in one of the best performances in Festival history. Richard Hoiles says is best 'relentless, remorseless have pounded Kauto Star into submission, the answer is DENMAN, Denman won the Gold Cup!'. If you can hear him over the crowd that is. Happy retirement Denman.
Tuesday 6 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Memory Number 2
Yesterday we saw one of the bravest shows in Festival History in Barizan going down a gallant second in the Triumph behind Soldatino. We go from one of the bravest to one of the best today as we honour the immortal Istabraq. The race in particular is his 1st champion hurdle in 1998. I would have chosen his third Champion Hurdle win but Racing UK have taken all footage of that win off of youtube and not replaced it with their own footage (well done racing UK).
Istabraq - 1998 Champion Hurdle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rUaQaY_Lqw
The start of a Champion Hurdle treble for Istabraq and arguably the most impressive, jumping the second last it looked as if Shadow Leader may pose a threat to the mighty horse, however when Charlie Swan said go Istrabraq said how far and lengthened with a devastating turn of foot. He went on to win by 12 lengths when really you could have named your distance over the second placed Theatreworld. A true Festival great!
Istabraq - 1998 Champion Hurdle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rUaQaY_Lqw
The start of a Champion Hurdle treble for Istabraq and arguably the most impressive, jumping the second last it looked as if Shadow Leader may pose a threat to the mighty horse, however when Charlie Swan said go Istrabraq said how far and lengthened with a devastating turn of foot. He went on to win by 12 lengths when really you could have named your distance over the second placed Theatreworld. A true Festival great!
Monday 5 March 2012
Cheltenham Festival Memory Number 1
If you havent seen on Twitter I will be counting down the days to the start of the Festival in Style by doing a Memory a day. If there are any races you feel should be in the blog feel free to put your suggestion forward and i will read it and who knows, it could make the next blog.
Barizan - JCB Triumph Hurdle 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy4Q9bwzEHU
Its very rare you get a runner up given a cheer that matches that of the winner, but even now i find myself cheering on Barizan up the hill thinking 'he will last home this time'. On a personal note i backed him at 25/1 a good 4 months before the race after he won at Market Rasen. This brave 4 year old the Cheltenham crowd roaring when he skipped over 3 from home, it was just a matter of what could catch him. it turns out the Soldatino was the only one that could live with him. To say the Evan Williams horse ran his heart out is an understatement but this horse will go down in the Cheltenham History books as one of the best losers at the festival and will forever remain in peoples hearts. GO ON BARIZAN!
Barizan - JCB Triumph Hurdle 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy4Q9bwzEHU
Its very rare you get a runner up given a cheer that matches that of the winner, but even now i find myself cheering on Barizan up the hill thinking 'he will last home this time'. On a personal note i backed him at 25/1 a good 4 months before the race after he won at Market Rasen. This brave 4 year old the Cheltenham crowd roaring when he skipped over 3 from home, it was just a matter of what could catch him. it turns out the Soldatino was the only one that could live with him. To say the Evan Williams horse ran his heart out is an understatement but this horse will go down in the Cheltenham History books as one of the best losers at the festival and will forever remain in peoples hearts. GO ON BARIZAN!
Saturday 3 March 2012
Correction
Correction from earlier, Mad Max was put up as my Nap earlier, he is now a non runner, be my light is the new Nap of the day
again happy punting
again happy punting
Newbury 3rd March
A good day of racing this Saturday especially with it being so close to Cheltenham. Newbury hold their gold cup meeting which never fails to attract a few bigger names, this year is no exception.
2:05
A race that revolves around BUCK MAGIC and whether the bounce factor will hit him today after a good run coming off a long lay off last time round, an exciting novice 2 years ago missed a substantial part of his career through injury but if he can build on his Wincanton run then he should take all the beating, Barry Geraghty a very positive jockey booking. LOVE OF TARA has been running against higher opposition than today as of late and has been outclassed, return to handicap company today is a plus but may just want a bit more give in the ground. LAMBORO LAD was a huge gamble last time at Doncaster when coming 4th, more market support is pretty interesting for him today but will need to improve. ALWAYS WAINING will run his race again but saves his best for Aintree nowadays. CINDERELLA ROSE has been freshened up since his last win at Plumpton but before that was beaten out of sight by Violin Davis which may just account for his chance. THEATRICAL STAR has been running well without reward lately and had some classy bumper form behind Rock on Ruby and Montbazon, if he can produce that over hurdles he should take all the beating, it is a big if though. BENBENS is rated 7 pounds higher than he was for being beat a short head at Taunton last time, that was a weaker race but he is an improving horse and should go close. GODSMEJUDGE hails from an in form yard and is relatively unexposed compared to some of the others. This is a big step up in class though and more will be needed, far from out of it though. Preference today is for the much improved TARVINI who is an in running punters dream after sulking the last two runs and finishing with a rocket on his back. He has been given 99 days off the track to freshen him up and is two from two under Maurice Linehan who seems to have found the key to him. TARVINI to keep his improvement going today and land the opener.
2:20
A race that will always have a dark spot in my eyes after one of my favourite horses Eric's Charm sadly broke a leg in last year and had to be put down. But it is great to see these veteran chasers meet today and it isnt short of class this year. DOM D'ORGEVAL never really fulfilled his full potential but is still more than capable of running a good race. A fairly long layoff must be overcome today though and it could be that Nick Williams has something a bit more long term planned for him. HELLO BUD is a household favourite for many around the country and always runs his race, he may just be a bit long in the tooth now however and others are preferred. NICHE MARKET and FAIR ALONG are the class horses of the race with the latter being placed at the Cheltenham Festival last year and running into 3rd in the Hennessy at this track. A reproduction of that form should see him right there with a chance, be warned he can sulk over fences though. The former mentioned is an Ex Irish Grand National winner and has been placed in a Hennessy and an A-on at this course, will be tough to beat. OUZBECK seems to have lost some of his old sparkle of his younger years and is hard to fancy on that, but a return to form will see him close after a little lay off. MARUFO gets in off a low weight and could be very dangerous here after coming 3rd in a competitive affair at Sandown last time out. MARK THE BOOK won well last time out at Chepstow but seems to do all his winning on heavy going and shouldnt be able to land a punch today. WOGAN is an admirable sort who never seems to stop running and destroying a few fences on the way round. Saying that his jumping was very good at Doncaster last time before being outclassed by Faasel. Should go well today. Im siding with the once very highly rated hurdler BLAZING BAILEY who is from a yard bang in form and should find this easier to win that the big handicaps he has been trying as off late.
3:05
The main race today seems to revolve around the two pricewise horses who have been backed in considerably this morning. ARALDUR and FINE PARCHMENT. The former seems to be his own worst enemy during his races by making a few bad mistakes, but on his best form he is very hard to oppose. The latter won this race last year off a 3 pound lower mark, Gavin Sheehan's 10 pound claim is invaluable here and he should make the frame at least. DAVE'S DREAM has alot of ability but is starting to become a bit disappointing after promising so much in his younger years and is once again opposed today. PASCO loves it round here and should put up a good show once again but one or two look more appealing today. The Moore family have been raving about FIX THE RIB all week, a return to the form he showed two years ago when he was 14 lengths behind Master Minded in the Game Spirit should put him right there, has something to prove though. WOOLCOMBE FOLLY needs to be forgiven his last run to have any chance today but is slowly slipping down the handicap to a nice mark though, more is needed today though and it could be one or two more runs before we see him at his best. AERIAL won very nicely at Ascot and followed up with an admirable effort at Cheltenham last time behind The Giant Bolster. It does seem that the Handicapper has caught him however. RILEYEV was badly outpaced last week at Chepstow and ran on for fourth but races from 3 pounds out of the handicap and may find life tough today. MAD MAX is the selection today. Last time out was his return to action and wasn't asked of much at Haydock last time, dropped two pounds he is still a very lightly raced 10 year old but has had his problem. He was only 5 lengths behind Sizing Europe in the Arkle 2 years ago and would have probably won if he hadnt made a shocking mistake two out. Today will be his first test for new trainer Neil Mulholland and we will give him the nod to return to winning ways.
3:05
DUBAI CREST has something to prove after a very poor effort last time at Taunton, but he is dropped in trip and is best watched today. Two horses come from a very long layoff in this race today, BALGARRY and SIRE COLLONGES the former hasnt been seen on an English racecourse before but has won a 3 year old hurdle at Clairefontaine, for that reason he is a very interesting newcomer. The latter's best effort came here in this race last year and is 3 pounds higher than last years renewal. EBANOUR tries a handicap for the first time for a stable bang in form and is down in trip, it will be interesting to see how he adapts after being consistent in Novice company. LOOKS LIKE SLIM didnt get very far last time when unseating his rider, before that he had been going in the right direction and more improvement may be to come today. REBEL DANCER has something to prove at this level and is best opposed today. ORZARE ran a cracker in the Ladbroke but failed to build on that last time, forgive that run and he is in with a cracking chance. NAMPOUR ran a nice enough race coming off a very long layoff two races ago but didnt get too far when falling at the 3rd at Taunton last time, he was a very good horse in his younger days and im taking a gamble on him stripping fitter today and at least making the frame.
4:20
Oh goody another big handicap to dissect. QUOUSKO D'LISOP is becoming more and more frustrating and looks hard to back today. TESHALI always runs his race but does find winning hard to come by and usually isnt the strongest finisher. RULING PARTY is unexposed and has shown ability in his career so far, it would be no surprise to see him close today but a place may be his best hope. TICKATACK won a pretty weak affair at Southwell last time and may find life tougher today. BALLYQUIN QUEEN brings the best form to the table with a 3rd behind kentford grey lady at this track, he was bogged down last time in desperate going and it would be no surprise to see him go close today. HANDY ANDY needs to show alot more today and im not too sure why he is 6/1 but someone must know something so should be respected. GALIOTTO will strip alot fitter for his last flat outing 17 days ago and is a much better hurdler than he is on the flat and does have really strong each way credentials today. The selection is for the Charlie Longsdon trained BE MY LIGHT who returns to hurdles after not really taking too much to fences but reverting back to hurdles looks a positive mood, a useful 10 pound claimer is on board today and looks to have a nice weight with his claim.
4:55
BACK BOB BACK has been disappointing in his last two runs but before them won at this course in possibly a weaker contest than today and should be resepcted. CHENEY MANOR represents a powerful stable and has a good claimer on board that gets on well with him, he may just be playing for minor prize money today. SHAMMICK BOY has a bit about him but hasnt followed through with the talent he showed in his younger years, not without a chance today. PEPITE ROSE is strongly fancied by Aidan Coleman today even under a 7 pound penalty. As long as she can take the quick reappearance she will take all the beating.
happy punting today guys
Nap - Mad Max
2:05
A race that revolves around BUCK MAGIC and whether the bounce factor will hit him today after a good run coming off a long lay off last time round, an exciting novice 2 years ago missed a substantial part of his career through injury but if he can build on his Wincanton run then he should take all the beating, Barry Geraghty a very positive jockey booking. LOVE OF TARA has been running against higher opposition than today as of late and has been outclassed, return to handicap company today is a plus but may just want a bit more give in the ground. LAMBORO LAD was a huge gamble last time at Doncaster when coming 4th, more market support is pretty interesting for him today but will need to improve. ALWAYS WAINING will run his race again but saves his best for Aintree nowadays. CINDERELLA ROSE has been freshened up since his last win at Plumpton but before that was beaten out of sight by Violin Davis which may just account for his chance. THEATRICAL STAR has been running well without reward lately and had some classy bumper form behind Rock on Ruby and Montbazon, if he can produce that over hurdles he should take all the beating, it is a big if though. BENBENS is rated 7 pounds higher than he was for being beat a short head at Taunton last time, that was a weaker race but he is an improving horse and should go close. GODSMEJUDGE hails from an in form yard and is relatively unexposed compared to some of the others. This is a big step up in class though and more will be needed, far from out of it though. Preference today is for the much improved TARVINI who is an in running punters dream after sulking the last two runs and finishing with a rocket on his back. He has been given 99 days off the track to freshen him up and is two from two under Maurice Linehan who seems to have found the key to him. TARVINI to keep his improvement going today and land the opener.
2:20
A race that will always have a dark spot in my eyes after one of my favourite horses Eric's Charm sadly broke a leg in last year and had to be put down. But it is great to see these veteran chasers meet today and it isnt short of class this year. DOM D'ORGEVAL never really fulfilled his full potential but is still more than capable of running a good race. A fairly long layoff must be overcome today though and it could be that Nick Williams has something a bit more long term planned for him. HELLO BUD is a household favourite for many around the country and always runs his race, he may just be a bit long in the tooth now however and others are preferred. NICHE MARKET and FAIR ALONG are the class horses of the race with the latter being placed at the Cheltenham Festival last year and running into 3rd in the Hennessy at this track. A reproduction of that form should see him right there with a chance, be warned he can sulk over fences though. The former mentioned is an Ex Irish Grand National winner and has been placed in a Hennessy and an A-on at this course, will be tough to beat. OUZBECK seems to have lost some of his old sparkle of his younger years and is hard to fancy on that, but a return to form will see him close after a little lay off. MARUFO gets in off a low weight and could be very dangerous here after coming 3rd in a competitive affair at Sandown last time out. MARK THE BOOK won well last time out at Chepstow but seems to do all his winning on heavy going and shouldnt be able to land a punch today. WOGAN is an admirable sort who never seems to stop running and destroying a few fences on the way round. Saying that his jumping was very good at Doncaster last time before being outclassed by Faasel. Should go well today. Im siding with the once very highly rated hurdler BLAZING BAILEY who is from a yard bang in form and should find this easier to win that the big handicaps he has been trying as off late.
3:05
The main race today seems to revolve around the two pricewise horses who have been backed in considerably this morning. ARALDUR and FINE PARCHMENT. The former seems to be his own worst enemy during his races by making a few bad mistakes, but on his best form he is very hard to oppose. The latter won this race last year off a 3 pound lower mark, Gavin Sheehan's 10 pound claim is invaluable here and he should make the frame at least. DAVE'S DREAM has alot of ability but is starting to become a bit disappointing after promising so much in his younger years and is once again opposed today. PASCO loves it round here and should put up a good show once again but one or two look more appealing today. The Moore family have been raving about FIX THE RIB all week, a return to the form he showed two years ago when he was 14 lengths behind Master Minded in the Game Spirit should put him right there, has something to prove though. WOOLCOMBE FOLLY needs to be forgiven his last run to have any chance today but is slowly slipping down the handicap to a nice mark though, more is needed today though and it could be one or two more runs before we see him at his best. AERIAL won very nicely at Ascot and followed up with an admirable effort at Cheltenham last time behind The Giant Bolster. It does seem that the Handicapper has caught him however. RILEYEV was badly outpaced last week at Chepstow and ran on for fourth but races from 3 pounds out of the handicap and may find life tough today. MAD MAX is the selection today. Last time out was his return to action and wasn't asked of much at Haydock last time, dropped two pounds he is still a very lightly raced 10 year old but has had his problem. He was only 5 lengths behind Sizing Europe in the Arkle 2 years ago and would have probably won if he hadnt made a shocking mistake two out. Today will be his first test for new trainer Neil Mulholland and we will give him the nod to return to winning ways.
3:05
DUBAI CREST has something to prove after a very poor effort last time at Taunton, but he is dropped in trip and is best watched today. Two horses come from a very long layoff in this race today, BALGARRY and SIRE COLLONGES the former hasnt been seen on an English racecourse before but has won a 3 year old hurdle at Clairefontaine, for that reason he is a very interesting newcomer. The latter's best effort came here in this race last year and is 3 pounds higher than last years renewal. EBANOUR tries a handicap for the first time for a stable bang in form and is down in trip, it will be interesting to see how he adapts after being consistent in Novice company. LOOKS LIKE SLIM didnt get very far last time when unseating his rider, before that he had been going in the right direction and more improvement may be to come today. REBEL DANCER has something to prove at this level and is best opposed today. ORZARE ran a cracker in the Ladbroke but failed to build on that last time, forgive that run and he is in with a cracking chance. NAMPOUR ran a nice enough race coming off a very long layoff two races ago but didnt get too far when falling at the 3rd at Taunton last time, he was a very good horse in his younger days and im taking a gamble on him stripping fitter today and at least making the frame.
4:20
Oh goody another big handicap to dissect. QUOUSKO D'LISOP is becoming more and more frustrating and looks hard to back today. TESHALI always runs his race but does find winning hard to come by and usually isnt the strongest finisher. RULING PARTY is unexposed and has shown ability in his career so far, it would be no surprise to see him close today but a place may be his best hope. TICKATACK won a pretty weak affair at Southwell last time and may find life tougher today. BALLYQUIN QUEEN brings the best form to the table with a 3rd behind kentford grey lady at this track, he was bogged down last time in desperate going and it would be no surprise to see him go close today. HANDY ANDY needs to show alot more today and im not too sure why he is 6/1 but someone must know something so should be respected. GALIOTTO will strip alot fitter for his last flat outing 17 days ago and is a much better hurdler than he is on the flat and does have really strong each way credentials today. The selection is for the Charlie Longsdon trained BE MY LIGHT who returns to hurdles after not really taking too much to fences but reverting back to hurdles looks a positive mood, a useful 10 pound claimer is on board today and looks to have a nice weight with his claim.
4:55
BACK BOB BACK has been disappointing in his last two runs but before them won at this course in possibly a weaker contest than today and should be resepcted. CHENEY MANOR represents a powerful stable and has a good claimer on board that gets on well with him, he may just be playing for minor prize money today. SHAMMICK BOY has a bit about him but hasnt followed through with the talent he showed in his younger years, not without a chance today. PEPITE ROSE is strongly fancied by Aidan Coleman today even under a 7 pound penalty. As long as she can take the quick reappearance she will take all the beating.
happy punting today guys
Nap - Mad Max
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