Friday 7th June

Happy Friday everyone! I hear the weather has been wonderful back in England, for once I don't use that phrase sarcastically. Two things to address first, yes I am aware it is Friday and not Saturday I will explain why there is a blog up in a minute. Secondly I would like to reassure everyone that the Interview and article with Kirsty Milczarek is happening, I am waiting for the seal of approval right now. Hopefully it will either be up today or failing that it will go up on Sunday.

The reason for todays short but sweet blog is because I am again writing for http://pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com/ and thought id also post it here. If you haven't done so already then go on twitter and follow Martin on @Pigeon_Island to enter, all the rules are on the site.

Now very quickly onto the racing!

4:20 Newmarket - Chesterfield

This son of Pivotal really impressed me on debut when winning a 7 furlong maiden on the July Course, which is again in use for the first time this season. From just outside the four furlong marker Mickael Barzalona who again takes the ride today, was pushing away and victory looked unlikely. But his nudging and cajoling paid off around the one furlong marker, as Chesterfield found a gap and picked up well to score by a comfortable 1 and three quarter lengths. That is the reason for the obvious step up in trip to a mile and two furlongs which he should stay well. We cant be certain how strong that maiden is but every horse that has run since has won soon after. The nagging doubt is his race fitness as he hasn't been seen since that race which was 349 days ago. However, Saeed Bin Suroor's horses have been going well on their returns this year, so through gritted teeth I am willing to say its ok. One last mention is todays pilot, Mickael Barzalona rides Newmarket exceptionally well, especially the July course in particular. This is a huge positive and in a very competitive handicap Chesterfield can retain is 100% record. (7/1) 

8:05 Pontefract - Duke Of Perth

Kieren Fallon makes the 146 mile trip from Newmarket to ride Duke Of Perth which is his 'banker of the week'. Last time out was his first attempt in a handicap and had to be noted down as an unlucky runner up when held in around the two furlong marker. The long and short of it is that Isis Blue (the winner) got first run in a race that didn't break any track records. Around a furlong and a half out Duke Of Perth finally got a run and began to stay on for second, this was under hands and heels also. Definitely one that looks a 'winner in waiting' and today should be that day, if not for our sake for Mr Fallon who will be using a fair bit of petrol. (2/1)

8:15 Haydock - Nocturnal Affair

David Marnane is no stranger to these shores as he regularly brings one or two over which demand a lot of respect. Nocturnal Affair makes the trip to Haydock alone tonight and looks to hold a very good chance on paper. His only start this season came at The Curragh when beaten 3 lengths in to 7th by Hitchens, there are plenty of excuses however. The main one being that he broke very leisurely and was carried left leaving him always playing catch up with the field and never got competitive. Though he managed to stay on for 7th he didn't have the toughest of races and should be 100% fit after his reappearance. One for Ireland with Nocturnal Affair here. (7/1)

8:30 Stratford - Salsify

Salsify needs no introduction here as last years winner of the race and dual Cheltenham Fox Hunters winner. Since the turn of the year Salsify has been unbeaten, recording a win at Leopardstown in February before Cheltenham glory. As we all know he was a tad fortunate at the Festival with Oscar Delta unshipping Jane Mangan on the run in when in control. He then showed he is every bit as good as ever when absolutely hacking up at Punchestown by 35 lengths to Oscar Delta. Bare in mind that those three wins came on ground that is probably a bit too testing for him and it makes for impressive reading. With todays Good summer jumping ground he can once again prove why he dominates this division of chasing. (5/4)

NAP - Duke Of Perth
Nb - Chesterfield

Note - Salsify would be Nb but I feel that Chesterfield is better value at the prices and both hold similar chances.

Happy Punting!