2:15 Goodwood - Code Of Honour
Henry Candy's string have been in fine form as of late and Code Of Honour looks to continue that after a decisive Sandown success. He goes on pretty much any ground, but he doesnt want it lightning fast it would appear, that will be absolutely no problem with current conditions. Behind him that day was Mushaakis who then won next time out, but you would expect Code Of Honour to confirm that form. He has picked up a rating of 96 for his efforts, which is the minimum 6 pound rise from his last victory. That still leaves him on a more than workable mark and he does look like one that has the ability to make up into a Group performer. Even in a race of this calibre where there are bound to be some improvers, Code Of Honour can take it. (4/1)
2:45 Goodwood - Andhesontherun
One for Roger Varian here in a fairly wide open two year old competition, but Andhesontherun looks progressive enough to land this. He ran a respectable enough race at Ascot in the Windsor Castle Stakes behind extortionist finishing 12th. But next time up he ran over the longer trop of 6 furlongs which is also todays trip, he was successful that time when seeing out the further trip fantastically. Ideally he would prefer the ground a bit faster, but it is no real negative that today's ground is a bit softer than wanted. The positive on that front is that Goodwood drains really fast and with the weather predicted to be very hot we could have good ground. Andhesontherun to cause an upset here. (20/1)
3:15 Goodwood - Mount Athos
Mount Athos is a fantastic stayer so a return to this trip will be firmly in his favour after not enjoying the mile and a half trip. He was readily outpaced in a top class race late on at Royal Ascot which is no worry in a race like this. The only worry in my mind is that he may not quite be fully fired up as they may need to protect his handicap mark for the Melbourne Cup. However he is here and they wouldnt bring him without a chance so he is the preferred choice of the field and possibly the class act. Despite this being a top class field, Mount Athos is taken to land this on the way to the Melbourne Cup down under. (7/2)
3:45 Goodwood - Elik
The form of the Ribblesdale hasnt really worked out too strongly as it was a bit of a falsely run race, this inconvenienced Elik most. A truly run race here should suit more than last time and thats what it promises to be today. The main danger looks to be Lady Cecil's Wild Coco, but she is making her seasonal reappearance and looks vulnerable. Another negative for her is that she has got worked up at Goodwood before, thats not saying she will again but the occasion can get to her. Ryan Moore rides Elik who is the obvious threat and despite a few others with a chance, Elik looks the winner with everything in her favour. (3/1)
4:20 Goodwood - Tender Emotion
Godolphin had a frustrating day here yesterday with two being caught on the line, but Charlie Appleby has his string in fine fettle. We dont know a lot about Tender Emotion as this is her debut, but her Dam was fourth in the 1000 Guineas and won the Prix Morny. This looks a nice opening, albeit a tough one, but she looks a filly that is full of class on pedigree and Mickael Barzalona rides first timers fantastically. Tender Emotion to provide another win for Charlie Appleby. (No Price Yet)
4:50 Goodwood - Muharrib
Muharrib has some strong form to his name, most notably when winning nicely at Doncaster. He was also 4 and a half lengths behind Intrigo when possibly unlucky, he stumbled slightly straightening up for home and then got a bump from Intrigo himself pushing him back to last. He still made ground as the only one on the near side rail before tiring close home. He carried that form on when second to Law Enforcement at Newmarket and today can be another step forward for him. He has never experience the undulations of Goodwood, but in his earlier years he broke his maiden at Brighton. If you can handle Brighton then you can handle pretty much anywhere. Muharrib taken to continue his progress today. (17/2)
5:25 Goodwood - Lord Ofthe Shadows
Willie Twiston-Davies is booked to ride Richard Hannon's Gelding and gave him a favourable mention after winning at Leicester last night. It is easy to see why they fancy him today after slipping to a workable mark but showing glimpses of form while doing so. I need not mention the form of the Hannon's after the first two days, but if you havent seen, they are doing rather well. Blinkers have been experimented with Lord Ofthe Shadows, but in truth they didnt really affect him, if anything they held him back, they are taken off today. Despite some hardy seasoned handicappers being in this field, the four year old Lord Ofthe Shadows can take some beating. Richard Hannon to win the last again. (11/1)
NAP - Muharrib
Nb - Mount Athos
Happy Punting today guys! Good Luck
Wednesday 31 July 2013
Tuesday 30 July 2013
Glorious Goodwood Day Two
1:55 Goodwood - First Avenue
Laura Mongan's stable star can land a big race on the flat here after winning the Imperial Cup at Sandown over hurdles. Since then on the flat he finished a very respectable fourth in the Queen Alexandra at the glamorous odds of 40/1. He isnt quite that big today at 20/1 but that is off the back of a disappointing effort at Lingfield, that is easily forgiven though as he clearly wasn't himself. One major factor that was against him as well was the ground, it was fast that day when he prefers to get his toe in and test his stamina. Jack Mitchell takes the ride who hasn't been in the best form this year but a pound lower than his last run will help a little. He was running over 2 miles last time which is far from ideal on the flat for him, today will be much more up his street. Laura Mongan to have another big day this year with First Avenue. (20/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Cap O'rushes
Cap O'rushes has is first run for Charlie Appleby today after the whole Mahmood Al Zarroni affair, he comes here off the back of a career best in Ireland. The plan was for him to be in to ensure a good pace for Libertarian, that didn't work out with his stable mate running a shocker. Cap O'rushes however ran a blinder in coming fourth, obviously he was ridden very differently that day. Today he will be ridden much more to his liking and he seems a horse very much on the up after a fourth in a Royal Ascot handicap. The ground is no worry for him at all and the distance is fine for him, the only unknown part is his ability at Goodwood. If he takes to the course he can provide Charlie Appleby with his first big race winner. (4/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Dawn Approach
This is being built up to be the Dual On The Downs with yet another rematch between Dawn Approach and Toronado, the former aiming to make it 3-0 over his rival. They were most closely matched at Ascot last time after Dawn Approach had his Derby flop, Toronado was a fresh horse. Today they meet on what would seem level terms as in the Guineas Dawn Approach was on his seasonal reappearance. The ground is a bit more testing today, just like at Newmarket when it seemed that Toronado didnt get on with the softer ground. Id fully expect today to be 3-0 to Dawn Approach and a big each way challenge may come from the consistent Gregorian who's stamina will come into play here. Dawn Approach the selection though to win the Dual On The Downs. (11/10)
3:40 Goodwood - Outstrip
This could cap off a treble for Godolphin with the impressive debutant, Outstrip for Mickael Barzalona and Charlie Appleby again. Its a strong race with two Richard Hannon horses and a strong challenge from Richard Fahey with Parbold. Outstrip overcame a poor draw on debut however and still won what looks like a strong Newmarket maiden with strong form behind. He beat his stable mate, True Story by 1 and a half lengths who went on to win next time out. This race will need some improvement but he is well entitled to find that and could be the one to serve it up to Parbold. Outstrip the selection. (11/2)
4:15 Goodwood - Fashion Fund
A tricky race here as there isnt much form to go on but Fashion Fund from Brian Meehan's yard could be a nice newcomer with Frankie Dettori on board. As a yearling he cost 155,000 Guineas and is well related, her dam was an unraced half sister to the Racing Post Trophy winner Ibn Khaldun. Also in his family is Memory Cloth who you may be more familiar with. This may not be the strongest maiden in the long run but Fashion Fund could well be a useful recruit to the game. (No Price)
4:50 Goodwood - Great Timing
A Godolphin four timer can be rounded off here with Great Timing once again for Charlie Appleby who has a strong book today. She takes the step up to a mile and a furlong today which looks like it will suit and the ground should be no bother whatsoever. From his breeding it would appear that this trip will be his best and his family on the American side is top class. Again it does look a weaker race than usual with many exposed types but Great Timing is one that could be a great deal better than shown so far. The hood is on first time today which this season has been used to full effect by Godolphin so she could find a bit more here. Godolphin to round off a four timer today with Great Timing. (5/1)
5:25 Goodwood - My Kingdom
Of course a nice tough race to round off day two and preference is for the dual course and distance winner, My Kingdown for the yard of Stuart Williams. He has found a good vein of form lately if you can forgive his run on fast ground at Leicester two runs ago. Since then he has bounced back with a good effort over a furlong shorter at Pontefract but today should suit more than that. Mickael Barzalona is booked to ride today which is eyecatching for this yard and he could have a huge day two here. The ground will be no problem and is expected to go well of the same mark as last time and can round off day two for us here. (12/1)
NAP - Outstrip
Nb - Dawn Approach
Good luck today and as always, happy punting!!
Laura Mongan's stable star can land a big race on the flat here after winning the Imperial Cup at Sandown over hurdles. Since then on the flat he finished a very respectable fourth in the Queen Alexandra at the glamorous odds of 40/1. He isnt quite that big today at 20/1 but that is off the back of a disappointing effort at Lingfield, that is easily forgiven though as he clearly wasn't himself. One major factor that was against him as well was the ground, it was fast that day when he prefers to get his toe in and test his stamina. Jack Mitchell takes the ride who hasn't been in the best form this year but a pound lower than his last run will help a little. He was running over 2 miles last time which is far from ideal on the flat for him, today will be much more up his street. Laura Mongan to have another big day this year with First Avenue. (20/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Cap O'rushes
Cap O'rushes has is first run for Charlie Appleby today after the whole Mahmood Al Zarroni affair, he comes here off the back of a career best in Ireland. The plan was for him to be in to ensure a good pace for Libertarian, that didn't work out with his stable mate running a shocker. Cap O'rushes however ran a blinder in coming fourth, obviously he was ridden very differently that day. Today he will be ridden much more to his liking and he seems a horse very much on the up after a fourth in a Royal Ascot handicap. The ground is no worry for him at all and the distance is fine for him, the only unknown part is his ability at Goodwood. If he takes to the course he can provide Charlie Appleby with his first big race winner. (4/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Dawn Approach
This is being built up to be the Dual On The Downs with yet another rematch between Dawn Approach and Toronado, the former aiming to make it 3-0 over his rival. They were most closely matched at Ascot last time after Dawn Approach had his Derby flop, Toronado was a fresh horse. Today they meet on what would seem level terms as in the Guineas Dawn Approach was on his seasonal reappearance. The ground is a bit more testing today, just like at Newmarket when it seemed that Toronado didnt get on with the softer ground. Id fully expect today to be 3-0 to Dawn Approach and a big each way challenge may come from the consistent Gregorian who's stamina will come into play here. Dawn Approach the selection though to win the Dual On The Downs. (11/10)
3:40 Goodwood - Outstrip
This could cap off a treble for Godolphin with the impressive debutant, Outstrip for Mickael Barzalona and Charlie Appleby again. Its a strong race with two Richard Hannon horses and a strong challenge from Richard Fahey with Parbold. Outstrip overcame a poor draw on debut however and still won what looks like a strong Newmarket maiden with strong form behind. He beat his stable mate, True Story by 1 and a half lengths who went on to win next time out. This race will need some improvement but he is well entitled to find that and could be the one to serve it up to Parbold. Outstrip the selection. (11/2)
4:15 Goodwood - Fashion Fund
A tricky race here as there isnt much form to go on but Fashion Fund from Brian Meehan's yard could be a nice newcomer with Frankie Dettori on board. As a yearling he cost 155,000 Guineas and is well related, her dam was an unraced half sister to the Racing Post Trophy winner Ibn Khaldun. Also in his family is Memory Cloth who you may be more familiar with. This may not be the strongest maiden in the long run but Fashion Fund could well be a useful recruit to the game. (No Price)
4:50 Goodwood - Great Timing
A Godolphin four timer can be rounded off here with Great Timing once again for Charlie Appleby who has a strong book today. She takes the step up to a mile and a furlong today which looks like it will suit and the ground should be no bother whatsoever. From his breeding it would appear that this trip will be his best and his family on the American side is top class. Again it does look a weaker race than usual with many exposed types but Great Timing is one that could be a great deal better than shown so far. The hood is on first time today which this season has been used to full effect by Godolphin so she could find a bit more here. Godolphin to round off a four timer today with Great Timing. (5/1)
5:25 Goodwood - My Kingdom
Of course a nice tough race to round off day two and preference is for the dual course and distance winner, My Kingdown for the yard of Stuart Williams. He has found a good vein of form lately if you can forgive his run on fast ground at Leicester two runs ago. Since then he has bounced back with a good effort over a furlong shorter at Pontefract but today should suit more than that. Mickael Barzalona is booked to ride today which is eyecatching for this yard and he could have a huge day two here. The ground will be no problem and is expected to go well of the same mark as last time and can round off day two for us here. (12/1)
NAP - Outstrip
Nb - Dawn Approach
Good luck today and as always, happy punting!!
Monday 29 July 2013
Glorious Goodwood Day One
Today and all this week, Martin is running a contest for Glorious Goodwood, just tweet your selections to @Pigeon_island for the first four races each day and test your knowledge. You can check the results of the competition daily at www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com where you can also see my selections as well. Good Luck.
Onto today's selections.
1:55 Goodwood - Labarinto
To start off a hard day of betting, we start with Sir Michael Stoute's Labarinto in the more than capable hands of Ryan Moore. At Royal Ascot he ran a fantastic race for a long way on his seasonal reappearance over a furlong further before tiring late on. He will be all the better for that run and the handicapper has eased him another three pounds to the same weight above his last winning mark. He is untested over 9 furlongs which could well turn out to be his best distance as he has run either side of the trip, at both a mile and a mile and two furlongs. An important factor about him is that he has valuable winning form round Goodwood in his younger years. Despite this being a very tough contest, Labarinto can get back to winning ways. (16/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Supplicant
I have been scratching my head on this one for a while now and am finding it hard to get away from Supplicant for Richard Fahey. His trainer has stated that a bit of rain before the race will help him out no end, which thankfully is forecast in the morning. The selection ran a blinder to be second in the Windsor Castle at Royal Ascot and with improvement hinted at from home, he could take some beating. Form wise there is limited stuff to go on as he has graced the track on only three occasions but has impressed each time. Again it is a very tough race but 2 of the top four ran just 9 days ago in France, which leaves Reroute as the biggest threat. Supplicant to have his big day here at Goodwood. (3/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Producer
Im putting my neck on the line here by saying Aljamaaheer is the lay of the week as this trip looks all wrong for him. Were the race to be over a mile or even another furlong on top of that he'd be a certainty, but I have doubts about his pace in this 7 furlong contest. The Richard Hannon trained Producer is the pick for today though as he seems much more at home over today's trip. Earlier this season off level weights he beat Aljamaaheer over this trip, he receives four pounds today and looks ahead of the field. He will love the ground today after beating a few re-opposing rivals last time out in the Criterion at Newmarket. He would look one of the better bets of the day in what would seem a tough day on the front of things. The dangers could come in the shape of Garswood and possibly a bigger threat from Caspar Netscher who has never lost first time out. However it is Producer that is taken to land the spoils. (5/1)
3:40 Goodwood - Clowance Estate
In a race where it is impossible to pin one down with real confidence, the unexposed Clowance Estate is the choice for Roger Charlton and Graham Lee. He sneaks into the race at the bottom of the weights off a mark of 93 with potential to be better after just three runs. The worry is that he is inexperienced, but nothing is short in the talent department and winning today would be a huge step forward for his career. There is every chance that he is better over this trip and could well make his mark of 93 look silly after the form of his last race has worked out. The biggest danger could come from Suraj who accompanies him down at the bottom of the weights, he takes a step down in trip after not getting home last time. Preference is for Clowance Estate however. (9/1)
4:15 Goodwood - Brazos
In a race that is nearly impossible to call with so many unknown quantities, we take Clive Brittain's representative, Brazos who has impressed without winning. Last time out he was just touched off by The Grey Gatsby who could also be a talented individual as they were quite a way clear of the rest. First time out he was beaten by the more experienced Fair Ranger and it was a promising debut which he built on next time out. Another step of improvement will be needed here but that isn't out of the equation and the booking of Ryan Moore is a substantial one. The downhill 6 furlongs should also suit Brazos today and can take the price. (10/3)
4:50 Goodwood - Copperwood
Mark Johnston's stable have been in fine form lately and Copperwood has been in just as good form this season when winning three times. He may have a harder time getting to the front today but he has a nice draw and he wont have to burn too much energy to get there. This is decidedly tougher than his wins this year however but as an 8 year old has taken a huge step forward once again. If running to his best then he will take them close here but more will be needed, you always have to respect a tough Johnston front runner like himself. Copperwood is the choice today in a very competitive and tough handicap. (12/1)
5:25 Goodwood - B Fifty Two
John Hills representative has taken some beatings since his two year old days, this also means that he has been dropping through the weights. He was once rated 107 but has slipped to a low and more than workable mark of 86 today which is a 5 pounds drop from his last outing. Two runs ago from his rating of 91 he ran a more than promising run when fifth behind Khubala who has since improved. From this rating he remains dangerous but will have to prove his love for the game still exists but at this mark he cant be ignored. The booking of Richard Hughes is an eye catching booking as well who gets the leg up for the first time on this horse. B Fifty Two to land the last race of the first day. (18/1)
NAP - Labarinto
Nb - Producer
Let me know your selections on my twitter account, @Lukeyboy1325
Good luck if betting today and even more so if you follow my selections!
Happy Punting
Onto today's selections.
1:55 Goodwood - Labarinto
To start off a hard day of betting, we start with Sir Michael Stoute's Labarinto in the more than capable hands of Ryan Moore. At Royal Ascot he ran a fantastic race for a long way on his seasonal reappearance over a furlong further before tiring late on. He will be all the better for that run and the handicapper has eased him another three pounds to the same weight above his last winning mark. He is untested over 9 furlongs which could well turn out to be his best distance as he has run either side of the trip, at both a mile and a mile and two furlongs. An important factor about him is that he has valuable winning form round Goodwood in his younger years. Despite this being a very tough contest, Labarinto can get back to winning ways. (16/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Supplicant
I have been scratching my head on this one for a while now and am finding it hard to get away from Supplicant for Richard Fahey. His trainer has stated that a bit of rain before the race will help him out no end, which thankfully is forecast in the morning. The selection ran a blinder to be second in the Windsor Castle at Royal Ascot and with improvement hinted at from home, he could take some beating. Form wise there is limited stuff to go on as he has graced the track on only three occasions but has impressed each time. Again it is a very tough race but 2 of the top four ran just 9 days ago in France, which leaves Reroute as the biggest threat. Supplicant to have his big day here at Goodwood. (3/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Producer
Im putting my neck on the line here by saying Aljamaaheer is the lay of the week as this trip looks all wrong for him. Were the race to be over a mile or even another furlong on top of that he'd be a certainty, but I have doubts about his pace in this 7 furlong contest. The Richard Hannon trained Producer is the pick for today though as he seems much more at home over today's trip. Earlier this season off level weights he beat Aljamaaheer over this trip, he receives four pounds today and looks ahead of the field. He will love the ground today after beating a few re-opposing rivals last time out in the Criterion at Newmarket. He would look one of the better bets of the day in what would seem a tough day on the front of things. The dangers could come in the shape of Garswood and possibly a bigger threat from Caspar Netscher who has never lost first time out. However it is Producer that is taken to land the spoils. (5/1)
3:40 Goodwood - Clowance Estate
In a race where it is impossible to pin one down with real confidence, the unexposed Clowance Estate is the choice for Roger Charlton and Graham Lee. He sneaks into the race at the bottom of the weights off a mark of 93 with potential to be better after just three runs. The worry is that he is inexperienced, but nothing is short in the talent department and winning today would be a huge step forward for his career. There is every chance that he is better over this trip and could well make his mark of 93 look silly after the form of his last race has worked out. The biggest danger could come from Suraj who accompanies him down at the bottom of the weights, he takes a step down in trip after not getting home last time. Preference is for Clowance Estate however. (9/1)
4:15 Goodwood - Brazos
In a race that is nearly impossible to call with so many unknown quantities, we take Clive Brittain's representative, Brazos who has impressed without winning. Last time out he was just touched off by The Grey Gatsby who could also be a talented individual as they were quite a way clear of the rest. First time out he was beaten by the more experienced Fair Ranger and it was a promising debut which he built on next time out. Another step of improvement will be needed here but that isn't out of the equation and the booking of Ryan Moore is a substantial one. The downhill 6 furlongs should also suit Brazos today and can take the price. (10/3)
4:50 Goodwood - Copperwood
Mark Johnston's stable have been in fine form lately and Copperwood has been in just as good form this season when winning three times. He may have a harder time getting to the front today but he has a nice draw and he wont have to burn too much energy to get there. This is decidedly tougher than his wins this year however but as an 8 year old has taken a huge step forward once again. If running to his best then he will take them close here but more will be needed, you always have to respect a tough Johnston front runner like himself. Copperwood is the choice today in a very competitive and tough handicap. (12/1)
5:25 Goodwood - B Fifty Two
John Hills representative has taken some beatings since his two year old days, this also means that he has been dropping through the weights. He was once rated 107 but has slipped to a low and more than workable mark of 86 today which is a 5 pounds drop from his last outing. Two runs ago from his rating of 91 he ran a more than promising run when fifth behind Khubala who has since improved. From this rating he remains dangerous but will have to prove his love for the game still exists but at this mark he cant be ignored. The booking of Richard Hughes is an eye catching booking as well who gets the leg up for the first time on this horse. B Fifty Two to land the last race of the first day. (18/1)
NAP - Labarinto
Nb - Producer
Let me know your selections on my twitter account, @Lukeyboy1325
Good luck if betting today and even more so if you follow my selections!
Happy Punting
Friday 26 July 2013
King George Day
Good evening or morning depending where you are in the world I hope the weather is nice for you today and you are ready for some horse racing. First of all my apologies for last week and the absence of a blog update, I was busy moving out of my place in Canada. Now I am back in England racing will be far easier to keep up to date with and also it means the end of waking up at 5am!
This time last week we were starry eyed over the clash between St Nicholas Abbey and Cirrus Des Aigles. Tragically our dreams were scuppered early this week when St Nicholas Abbey suffered a career ending injury. As im sure you know by now he underwent surgery to fix a fractured pastern which all went well and he was stable. Mother Nature wasn't done yet and yesterday he was diagnosed with Colic which if you dont know is very deadly in horses. He has been rushed into an emergency surgery but we will have to wait on the results, all we can do is pray that he can be saved. Come on St Nic, just one last fight, we are all with you here!
Martin will be running a Glorious Goodwood Pigeon Swoop in which prizes shall be awarded for the best player each day. As always you can enter via twitter, send your selections to the chosen four races to @Pigeon_Island to enter daily. You can check the results from the day before and see my selections for Goodwood at www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com along with other features!
With no review of last week to be done I will have to leave this intro short and get straight into the important stuff.
2:05 Ascot - Fig Roll
Regular readers will know that I am a huge fan of Fig Roll, not just because her best friend is a cat, but because of her outstanding attitude. From her first run she has known her job and beyond her duties when really stretching her neck when asked for an effort. She was a creditable fourth in the Queen Mary behind Rizeena when staying on well over five furlongs. Immediately she was stepped up to 6 furlongs which she won over at Newmarket and then ran a nice fourth in a Group 2. The problem with them two runs is that I dont think she really appreciated the course at all as her head was cocked to the right the whole time. She had no such problems at Ascot and im pretty certain we haven't seen the best of Fig Roll just yet. Dropped in class the gutsy Fig Roll can land the opener at Ascot to start off a great day of racing. (10/1)
2:55 York - Grandeur
Jeremy Noseda has been absolutely flying as of late and his stable star takes to the course today after having his prep run at Newmarket. He ran fantastically that day but race fitness told in the end and he was forced to settle for fourth behind Universal in the Princess of Wales's. There will be no excuses this time and despite the strong opponent in Mukhadram he should more than hold his own. Again regular readers will also know how highly I regard Grandeur and since his Maiden win at Brighton have considered him Group 1 class. Grandeur is the only one making the trip from Newmarket, where Jeremy Noseda is based and with Frankie Dettori getting the leg up should take some beating. Grandeur to prove his class and use this as a stepping stone to bigger and better things. (7/1)
3:15 Ascot - Glen Moss
Today's more risky selection in a 29 runner handicap on the straight course at Ascot. Charlie Hills swerved the Royal meeting with his 4 year old, instead going to a smaller race at Doncaster in which he won after fourth in a bigger handicap. There is every chance that, that win is just what he needed to put the wind in his sails and give him a confidence boost. For the moment, 7 furlongs looks his ideal trip after a good effort in the Victoria Cup off a pound lower in the weights. Mickael Barzalona is an eyecatching jockey booking however and it would be no surprise to see Glen Moss finally confirm his potential today. Glen Moss to land this down the bottom of the weights. (25/1)
3:50 Ascot - Cirrus Des Aigles
For me Cirrus Des Aigles is the banker of the day month and flat season, I was shocked to see people claiming there is no star in this years King George. Here we have the highest rated horse in the world currently in training and lets not forget a horse that ran Frankel to a length and three quarters. The day he was beaten by Frankel it wasn't stamina that beat him, it was his speed, but no horse could go with the magnificent Frankel. I feel that anybody poking holes in Cirrus Des Aigles' form is a person that is looking for him to get beat. Last time out he was put firmly in his place by the reopposing Novellist, but when his chance had gone Olivier Peslier relaxed on him and asked for no more. History has also told us that Cirrus Des Aigles is never 100% first time out and this year was no different, but we wont know for sure until 3:55pm today. All we can go on is the very strong reports from his connections and that fact the if fully fit he is streets ahead of todays rivals. Cirrus Des Aigles to confirm his superiority. (6/4)
NAP - Cirrus Des Aigles
Nb - Grandeur
Happy punting today guys and remember, no matter what result of the King George, keep poor old St Nicholas Abbey in your thoughts.
This time last week we were starry eyed over the clash between St Nicholas Abbey and Cirrus Des Aigles. Tragically our dreams were scuppered early this week when St Nicholas Abbey suffered a career ending injury. As im sure you know by now he underwent surgery to fix a fractured pastern which all went well and he was stable. Mother Nature wasn't done yet and yesterday he was diagnosed with Colic which if you dont know is very deadly in horses. He has been rushed into an emergency surgery but we will have to wait on the results, all we can do is pray that he can be saved. Come on St Nic, just one last fight, we are all with you here!
Martin will be running a Glorious Goodwood Pigeon Swoop in which prizes shall be awarded for the best player each day. As always you can enter via twitter, send your selections to the chosen four races to @Pigeon_Island to enter daily. You can check the results from the day before and see my selections for Goodwood at www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com along with other features!
With no review of last week to be done I will have to leave this intro short and get straight into the important stuff.
2:05 Ascot - Fig Roll
Regular readers will know that I am a huge fan of Fig Roll, not just because her best friend is a cat, but because of her outstanding attitude. From her first run she has known her job and beyond her duties when really stretching her neck when asked for an effort. She was a creditable fourth in the Queen Mary behind Rizeena when staying on well over five furlongs. Immediately she was stepped up to 6 furlongs which she won over at Newmarket and then ran a nice fourth in a Group 2. The problem with them two runs is that I dont think she really appreciated the course at all as her head was cocked to the right the whole time. She had no such problems at Ascot and im pretty certain we haven't seen the best of Fig Roll just yet. Dropped in class the gutsy Fig Roll can land the opener at Ascot to start off a great day of racing. (10/1)
2:55 York - Grandeur
Jeremy Noseda has been absolutely flying as of late and his stable star takes to the course today after having his prep run at Newmarket. He ran fantastically that day but race fitness told in the end and he was forced to settle for fourth behind Universal in the Princess of Wales's. There will be no excuses this time and despite the strong opponent in Mukhadram he should more than hold his own. Again regular readers will also know how highly I regard Grandeur and since his Maiden win at Brighton have considered him Group 1 class. Grandeur is the only one making the trip from Newmarket, where Jeremy Noseda is based and with Frankie Dettori getting the leg up should take some beating. Grandeur to prove his class and use this as a stepping stone to bigger and better things. (7/1)
3:15 Ascot - Glen Moss
Today's more risky selection in a 29 runner handicap on the straight course at Ascot. Charlie Hills swerved the Royal meeting with his 4 year old, instead going to a smaller race at Doncaster in which he won after fourth in a bigger handicap. There is every chance that, that win is just what he needed to put the wind in his sails and give him a confidence boost. For the moment, 7 furlongs looks his ideal trip after a good effort in the Victoria Cup off a pound lower in the weights. Mickael Barzalona is an eyecatching jockey booking however and it would be no surprise to see Glen Moss finally confirm his potential today. Glen Moss to land this down the bottom of the weights. (25/1)
3:50 Ascot - Cirrus Des Aigles
For me Cirrus Des Aigles is the banker of the day month and flat season, I was shocked to see people claiming there is no star in this years King George. Here we have the highest rated horse in the world currently in training and lets not forget a horse that ran Frankel to a length and three quarters. The day he was beaten by Frankel it wasn't stamina that beat him, it was his speed, but no horse could go with the magnificent Frankel. I feel that anybody poking holes in Cirrus Des Aigles' form is a person that is looking for him to get beat. Last time out he was put firmly in his place by the reopposing Novellist, but when his chance had gone Olivier Peslier relaxed on him and asked for no more. History has also told us that Cirrus Des Aigles is never 100% first time out and this year was no different, but we wont know for sure until 3:55pm today. All we can go on is the very strong reports from his connections and that fact the if fully fit he is streets ahead of todays rivals. Cirrus Des Aigles to confirm his superiority. (6/4)
NAP - Cirrus Des Aigles
Nb - Grandeur
Happy punting today guys and remember, no matter what result of the King George, keep poor old St Nicholas Abbey in your thoughts.
Friday 12 July 2013
Mickael Barzalona Appreciation Day
Its that time again, an appreciation day blog. Last year when I did one of these we had a few winners both times, once with Sue Smith's yard and once with William Buick, lets hope for more of the same today.
Last week we had just the one winner with Al Kazeem who was in truth a bit of a gift at the price considering all known form. He never really looked like losing either with the only worrying moment being when he cut up Mukhadram badly earning James Doyle a ban. He is now taking in a well earned break, but will be back later on in the season and all guns are aimed towards Longchamp for the Arc.
As for yesterday, it was a pretty good success as we managed two winners and an 18/1 double with our NAP and Nb. The afternoon started off averagely as Fig Roll came in fourth after looking for a while like the winner before tiring late on. Then Rosdhu Queen put in a woeful effort at York, one can only assume something was amiss as she was too bad to be true. She received a bump early on from March and then another one a furlong later from Sandreamer, it could come to light she picked up an injury there. But we shall have to wait an see.
Then it was time for Elusive Kate who did her best to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory by hanging across the course and Sky Lantern. It was clear she did the grey no favours but Richard Hughes' mount wasn't closing and always looked held by a determined Buick. Despite the stewards Enquiry the deemed that the interference was not enough to overturn the result and placings were confirmed.
From a slightly anxious winner to a very easy winner in our NAP, Kikonga under a confident Kirsty Milczarek. Throughout the race she was always handy and took up the lead on the turn for home with the minimum of fuss only to quicken again. By the time they passed the 2 furlong marker the race was all but in the bag with Milczarek just pushing away to keep Kikonga going. She went on to score by an easy four lengths and looks on to keep on the right side of. One to take out of the race is Miss Cap Estel who fared best of the hold up horses from a mile back and a troubled run.
Martin is running a contest for four Newmarket races today which entries are now closed but will be running a swoop next week for all tweeters. You can enter when he reveals the races by following him on twitter @Pigeon_Island and by visiting www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com or you can follow me on @Lukeyboy1325.
Onto today's racing however and to start Mickael Barzalona appreciation day!
2:05 Newmarket - Muharrib
Mickael Barzalona starts off today aboard Muharrib who ran a very good race on reappearance behind Intrigo and the reopposing Makafeh. He gets a four pounds pull of the weights with Makafeh today, along with race fitness that should put him ahead in theory. Last season he was a very progressive horse, winning nicely at Doncaster and before that finding just Cat O'Mountain too good at Kempton. The latter mentioned has developed into a very nice horse and is a strong selection later on in the afternoon. One incident that may have scuppered his chances somewhat last time occurred in the early part of the home straight. He was knocked to the side by Intrigo causing him to lose a couple of lengths and put him as the back marker. However saying that it did mean he got a clear path up the nearside rail, it just happened at an inconvenient time of the race. Muharrib to get today started with a bang. (7/1)
2:30 Ascot - Aljamaaheer
Aljamaaheer is the class horse of this race by a mile after 2 very solid Group one efforts the last twice, firstly in the Lockinge and secondly in the Queen Anne. The Queen Anne form is working out nicely, the winner has gone on to be second in the Eclipse and Elusive Kate who won yesterday was back in fourth. He wouldn't even have to match that effort of last time to take this, an effort slightly below it would suffice and his price is ludicrous. The only worry one could have about him is that he has only won twice but is always thereabouts, which questions his will to win. That shouldn't really be a problem today, if it is a problem at all as he is head and shoulders above today's rivals. His main rival Afsare comes off the back of a good effort at Sandown over a further trip, so todays distance will suit. But you would be hard pressed to say he is the class of the selection unless finding marked improvement from somewhere. Aljamaaheer is a very strong selection here. (5/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Outstrip
Outstrip will end a hectic 35 minutes for us and hopefully provide Mickael Barzalona with a quick fire double and ourselves with a treble. In my mind, there is nobody better at riding Newmarket than Barzalona, especially the July course, he excels with 2 year olds in particular. Outstrip really impressed me on debut over course and distance when taking on experienced rivals and beating them nicely. He was fairly poorly drawn that day and had to make his challenge down the centre of the track, which for a racecourse debutant is no easy thing. But in a really taking style he swooped to the front under Barzalona to win comfortably by a length and a half, from True Story who has since won well. On that occasion it looked like Outstrip will be much better with that run out of the way as he was a tiny bit green in victory. Outstrip to take the Superlative and prove how good he is. (10/3)
5:35 Newmarket - Cat O'Mountain
After Outstrip we have a long wait till our last runner who is the biggest price of the day and is also today's NAP. You may ask why but there is a simple answer and it would appear that people are jumping on the Hannon and Hughes bandwagon. The first thing to mention has to be the three year old allowance which proved so valuable for Kikonga yesterday, here he carries 8-13 instead of 9-12. After he won last year at Kempton he was given a Derby entry but wasn't seen on a racecourse until June and swerved the Classic. That race possibly has the strongest form in the book of any race this season despite only being a six runner affair. The winner of the race was Maputo who was running over too short of a distance at Ascot but broke the track record here on Thursday. He is the first one from the race considered a Group horse, back in second was Number One London who is the only one to let the form down. In third was Chesterfield who is a horse I really like and also a horse that won next time out at Newbury, he is also considered a Group horse. In fourth was Cat O'Mountain himself with Feel Like Dancing in behind who won the Bahrain Trophy on Thursday. After that run he is now a real live contender for the St Leger and held in very high regard by John Gosden and William Buick. Last up is the rank outsider Mr Fitzroy who was beaten out of sight in the race, even he has managed a second next time out. Cat O'Mountain is also well related as a horse by Street Cry, he is a half brother to seven winners including Michita who won the Ribblesdale and top class Willing Foe. On breeding this trip should see him to his best. It would be a huge shock to me were he to be out of the frame and it will take a very good horse to beat him here. Apologies for the extra long write up but I really fancy this one. (10/1)
NAP - Cat O'Mountain
Nb - Aljamaaheer
A lucky 15 with all the selections today should see a good profit and maximum confidence is behind all of today's selections.
Happy Punting!
Last week we had just the one winner with Al Kazeem who was in truth a bit of a gift at the price considering all known form. He never really looked like losing either with the only worrying moment being when he cut up Mukhadram badly earning James Doyle a ban. He is now taking in a well earned break, but will be back later on in the season and all guns are aimed towards Longchamp for the Arc.
As for yesterday, it was a pretty good success as we managed two winners and an 18/1 double with our NAP and Nb. The afternoon started off averagely as Fig Roll came in fourth after looking for a while like the winner before tiring late on. Then Rosdhu Queen put in a woeful effort at York, one can only assume something was amiss as she was too bad to be true. She received a bump early on from March and then another one a furlong later from Sandreamer, it could come to light she picked up an injury there. But we shall have to wait an see.
Then it was time for Elusive Kate who did her best to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory by hanging across the course and Sky Lantern. It was clear she did the grey no favours but Richard Hughes' mount wasn't closing and always looked held by a determined Buick. Despite the stewards Enquiry the deemed that the interference was not enough to overturn the result and placings were confirmed.
From a slightly anxious winner to a very easy winner in our NAP, Kikonga under a confident Kirsty Milczarek. Throughout the race she was always handy and took up the lead on the turn for home with the minimum of fuss only to quicken again. By the time they passed the 2 furlong marker the race was all but in the bag with Milczarek just pushing away to keep Kikonga going. She went on to score by an easy four lengths and looks on to keep on the right side of. One to take out of the race is Miss Cap Estel who fared best of the hold up horses from a mile back and a troubled run.
Martin is running a contest for four Newmarket races today which entries are now closed but will be running a swoop next week for all tweeters. You can enter when he reveals the races by following him on twitter @Pigeon_Island and by visiting www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com or you can follow me on @Lukeyboy1325.
Onto today's racing however and to start Mickael Barzalona appreciation day!
2:05 Newmarket - Muharrib
Mickael Barzalona starts off today aboard Muharrib who ran a very good race on reappearance behind Intrigo and the reopposing Makafeh. He gets a four pounds pull of the weights with Makafeh today, along with race fitness that should put him ahead in theory. Last season he was a very progressive horse, winning nicely at Doncaster and before that finding just Cat O'Mountain too good at Kempton. The latter mentioned has developed into a very nice horse and is a strong selection later on in the afternoon. One incident that may have scuppered his chances somewhat last time occurred in the early part of the home straight. He was knocked to the side by Intrigo causing him to lose a couple of lengths and put him as the back marker. However saying that it did mean he got a clear path up the nearside rail, it just happened at an inconvenient time of the race. Muharrib to get today started with a bang. (7/1)
2:30 Ascot - Aljamaaheer
Aljamaaheer is the class horse of this race by a mile after 2 very solid Group one efforts the last twice, firstly in the Lockinge and secondly in the Queen Anne. The Queen Anne form is working out nicely, the winner has gone on to be second in the Eclipse and Elusive Kate who won yesterday was back in fourth. He wouldn't even have to match that effort of last time to take this, an effort slightly below it would suffice and his price is ludicrous. The only worry one could have about him is that he has only won twice but is always thereabouts, which questions his will to win. That shouldn't really be a problem today, if it is a problem at all as he is head and shoulders above today's rivals. His main rival Afsare comes off the back of a good effort at Sandown over a further trip, so todays distance will suit. But you would be hard pressed to say he is the class of the selection unless finding marked improvement from somewhere. Aljamaaheer is a very strong selection here. (5/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Outstrip
Outstrip will end a hectic 35 minutes for us and hopefully provide Mickael Barzalona with a quick fire double and ourselves with a treble. In my mind, there is nobody better at riding Newmarket than Barzalona, especially the July course, he excels with 2 year olds in particular. Outstrip really impressed me on debut over course and distance when taking on experienced rivals and beating them nicely. He was fairly poorly drawn that day and had to make his challenge down the centre of the track, which for a racecourse debutant is no easy thing. But in a really taking style he swooped to the front under Barzalona to win comfortably by a length and a half, from True Story who has since won well. On that occasion it looked like Outstrip will be much better with that run out of the way as he was a tiny bit green in victory. Outstrip to take the Superlative and prove how good he is. (10/3)
5:35 Newmarket - Cat O'Mountain
After Outstrip we have a long wait till our last runner who is the biggest price of the day and is also today's NAP. You may ask why but there is a simple answer and it would appear that people are jumping on the Hannon and Hughes bandwagon. The first thing to mention has to be the three year old allowance which proved so valuable for Kikonga yesterday, here he carries 8-13 instead of 9-12. After he won last year at Kempton he was given a Derby entry but wasn't seen on a racecourse until June and swerved the Classic. That race possibly has the strongest form in the book of any race this season despite only being a six runner affair. The winner of the race was Maputo who was running over too short of a distance at Ascot but broke the track record here on Thursday. He is the first one from the race considered a Group horse, back in second was Number One London who is the only one to let the form down. In third was Chesterfield who is a horse I really like and also a horse that won next time out at Newbury, he is also considered a Group horse. In fourth was Cat O'Mountain himself with Feel Like Dancing in behind who won the Bahrain Trophy on Thursday. After that run he is now a real live contender for the St Leger and held in very high regard by John Gosden and William Buick. Last up is the rank outsider Mr Fitzroy who was beaten out of sight in the race, even he has managed a second next time out. Cat O'Mountain is also well related as a horse by Street Cry, he is a half brother to seven winners including Michita who won the Ribblesdale and top class Willing Foe. On breeding this trip should see him to his best. It would be a huge shock to me were he to be out of the frame and it will take a very good horse to beat him here. Apologies for the extra long write up but I really fancy this one. (10/1)
NAP - Cat O'Mountain
Nb - Aljamaaheer
A lucky 15 with all the selections today should see a good profit and maximum confidence is behind all of today's selections.
Happy Punting!
Thursday 11 July 2013
Newmarket July Meeting Day 2
Well day two of the first test didn't exactly go to plan, as England were ripped apart by an incredible innings from the 19 year old Ashton Agar at number 11. He fell just short of a maiden test 100 when Graeme Swann caught him on 98, not mentioning how he was stumped earlier on and the 3rd umpire gave it not out on video evidence.
Later on the third umpire, Marais Erasmus, stole the spotlight again when once more on video replay he overruled the on field decision against Jonathan Trott. Despite there being a clear inside edge from Trott he felt there was enough evidence to declare him out LBW, overturning Aleem Dar's decision. The ICC later apologised to England for Erasmus' mistake which left them 11 for 2 at Tea.
Captain Alastair Cook and Kevin Pietersen are currently at the crease after seeing out the day with two brilliant innings'. At the close of play England were left on 80 for 2 with Cook on 37 not out and Pietersen at the other end on 35 not out with 3 days play left.
But onto the racing from yesterday and just the one winner to report home as William Buick and Feel Like Dancing fought out a victory in the Bahrain Trophy. It looked unlikely half a mile from home as the race began to turn into a bit of a sprint, but he stayed on gamely to hold off Jathabah and Havana Beat, returning at 3/1.
We were just denied a quick double at Figure Of Speech found only the Richard Hannon trained, Anjaal too good going down by a neck. If it wasn't for hanging across the track late on the story may have been a little different but he remains a nice prospect. In the race after Grandeur travelled up well but in the end his penalty and lack of race fitness told, coming in fourth, he will be winning soon though.
Martin is running a contest today which entries are now closed but will most probably be running a swoop this weekend for all tweeters. You can enter when he reveals the races by following him on twitter @Pigeon_Island and by visiting www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com or you can follow me on @Lukeyboy1325.
Onto the days racing!
2:10 Newmarket - Fig Roll
I have followed Fig Roll since her debut run and its fair to say I am a huge fan of her. She supplied us with a rewarding fourth in the Queen Mary, a trip that she finds a bit on the sharp side, especially in that class. But after staying on well she was stepped up to 6 furlongs here last time when she won well under Richard Hughes. Of course it is a big ask to turn the tables with Rizeena who was an impressive winner of the Queen Mary. With the penalty for winning at Ascot, the distance between these two should in theory be half a length, with Rizeena coming out on top. But over 6 furlongs Fig Roll could well be capable of turning the tables and cause a bit of an upset in the Duchess Of Cambridge. (15/2) (Reverse Forecast, Rizeena and Fig Roll)
2:25 York - Rosdhu Queen
After not staying 7 furlongs at Newbury first time up this year, Rosdhu Queen was dropped back to 6 furlongs in the Diamond Jubilee where she ran a brilliant fifth. She takes a step down in class in order to try and win for the first time since her two year old season last year. However this is no easy task with improving horses all around her in March, Body and Soul and the top class Restiadargent. I am certain we haven't seen the best of Rosdhu Queen however and she should be more than capable of taking this race on the way to better things. In truth she wont have to improve a great deal from her last run, if at all to be landing this race and looks a good bet. (5/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Elusive Kate
A disappointing turn out of 4 go to post for this year's Falmouth, but a field that are definitely not short on class and ability. The market is headed by top three year old Sky Lantern who was so impressive at Royal Ascot when overcoming a wide draw. Preference however is for the second favourite, Elusive Kate, who was having her comeback run at Ascot and despite badly needing it managed a very good fourth. She will come on no end for that run and the winner has since gone on to be second in the Eclipse behind Al Kazeem. Last year the reopposing, Giofra, took this with the selection back in second, however she is fancied to reverse placings today as this year she has the benefit of a run. Sky Lantern will be tough to beat receiving weight all round but in a race that could be slowly run we go with Elusive Kate to steal it. (5/2)
3:40 Ascot - Kikonga
In a recent interview I did with Kirsty Milczarek, she put Kikonga up as her horse to follow this season. After a defeat last time under Richard Hughes she is upped in trip and Kirsty gets the leg back up which is nothing but a positive. In that interview she described Kikonga as a promising filly and on her last run you could see why when just being outpaced late on. She gets a huge 3 year old allowance today that will see her carry 8-12 when she should be carrying 9-11. Even though this should account for her inexperience, she should still be good more than good enough to win and make her mark look foolish. For that reason, Kikonga is today's NAP. (5/2)
NAP - Kikonga
Nb - Elusive Kate
Happy Punting today guys! Good Luck
Later on the third umpire, Marais Erasmus, stole the spotlight again when once more on video replay he overruled the on field decision against Jonathan Trott. Despite there being a clear inside edge from Trott he felt there was enough evidence to declare him out LBW, overturning Aleem Dar's decision. The ICC later apologised to England for Erasmus' mistake which left them 11 for 2 at Tea.
Captain Alastair Cook and Kevin Pietersen are currently at the crease after seeing out the day with two brilliant innings'. At the close of play England were left on 80 for 2 with Cook on 37 not out and Pietersen at the other end on 35 not out with 3 days play left.
But onto the racing from yesterday and just the one winner to report home as William Buick and Feel Like Dancing fought out a victory in the Bahrain Trophy. It looked unlikely half a mile from home as the race began to turn into a bit of a sprint, but he stayed on gamely to hold off Jathabah and Havana Beat, returning at 3/1.
We were just denied a quick double at Figure Of Speech found only the Richard Hannon trained, Anjaal too good going down by a neck. If it wasn't for hanging across the track late on the story may have been a little different but he remains a nice prospect. In the race after Grandeur travelled up well but in the end his penalty and lack of race fitness told, coming in fourth, he will be winning soon though.
Martin is running a contest today which entries are now closed but will most probably be running a swoop this weekend for all tweeters. You can enter when he reveals the races by following him on twitter @Pigeon_Island and by visiting www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com or you can follow me on @Lukeyboy1325.
Onto the days racing!
2:10 Newmarket - Fig Roll
I have followed Fig Roll since her debut run and its fair to say I am a huge fan of her. She supplied us with a rewarding fourth in the Queen Mary, a trip that she finds a bit on the sharp side, especially in that class. But after staying on well she was stepped up to 6 furlongs here last time when she won well under Richard Hughes. Of course it is a big ask to turn the tables with Rizeena who was an impressive winner of the Queen Mary. With the penalty for winning at Ascot, the distance between these two should in theory be half a length, with Rizeena coming out on top. But over 6 furlongs Fig Roll could well be capable of turning the tables and cause a bit of an upset in the Duchess Of Cambridge. (15/2) (Reverse Forecast, Rizeena and Fig Roll)
2:25 York - Rosdhu Queen
After not staying 7 furlongs at Newbury first time up this year, Rosdhu Queen was dropped back to 6 furlongs in the Diamond Jubilee where she ran a brilliant fifth. She takes a step down in class in order to try and win for the first time since her two year old season last year. However this is no easy task with improving horses all around her in March, Body and Soul and the top class Restiadargent. I am certain we haven't seen the best of Rosdhu Queen however and she should be more than capable of taking this race on the way to better things. In truth she wont have to improve a great deal from her last run, if at all to be landing this race and looks a good bet. (5/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Elusive Kate
A disappointing turn out of 4 go to post for this year's Falmouth, but a field that are definitely not short on class and ability. The market is headed by top three year old Sky Lantern who was so impressive at Royal Ascot when overcoming a wide draw. Preference however is for the second favourite, Elusive Kate, who was having her comeback run at Ascot and despite badly needing it managed a very good fourth. She will come on no end for that run and the winner has since gone on to be second in the Eclipse behind Al Kazeem. Last year the reopposing, Giofra, took this with the selection back in second, however she is fancied to reverse placings today as this year she has the benefit of a run. Sky Lantern will be tough to beat receiving weight all round but in a race that could be slowly run we go with Elusive Kate to steal it. (5/2)
3:40 Ascot - Kikonga
In a recent interview I did with Kirsty Milczarek, she put Kikonga up as her horse to follow this season. After a defeat last time under Richard Hughes she is upped in trip and Kirsty gets the leg back up which is nothing but a positive. In that interview she described Kikonga as a promising filly and on her last run you could see why when just being outpaced late on. She gets a huge 3 year old allowance today that will see her carry 8-12 when she should be carrying 9-11. Even though this should account for her inexperience, she should still be good more than good enough to win and make her mark look foolish. For that reason, Kikonga is today's NAP. (5/2)
NAP - Kikonga
Nb - Elusive Kate
Happy Punting today guys! Good Luck
Wednesday 10 July 2013
Newmarket July Meeting
I'd like to start off today's brief intro with a word about The Ashes which started yesterday. For your avid cricket fans, like myself, this is the crème de la crème of cricket, which is the reason I woke up at 2:45am to watch it.
Alistair Cook won the toss but he went for 13 when England had just 27 runs on the board. It was then up to his fellow opening batsman Joe Root and number 3 Jonathan Trott to steady the ship, which they did until Root was bowled by Siddle. That would be the first of 5 wickets for Peter Siddle, completing the other men that fell to him were Trott, who top scored with 48, Pietersen, Bell and Matt Prior. The only real positive from the England innings was that a few players got settled at the crease but disappointingly didn't go on with their score.
Of the Australian bowling attack, it started out poorly with James Pattinson doing his best Steve Harmison impression by bowling a wide first ball. From then on they gathered pace with Pattinson finishing with figures of 3-69 while debutant Ashton Agar bowled economically for no reward, ending with 0-24. Peter Siddle was the pick of the bowlers with 5-50 off his 14 overs and Mitchell Starc contributed 2 wickets for his 54 runs.
At the close of play England had Australia in a spot of bother as they closed on 74-4, with Shane Watson, Chris Rogers and the danger man Michael Clarke all falling. Late selection, Steve Smith, remains at the crease on 38 and looking dangerous, his partner in the morning will be Philip Hughes who himself is on 7. An exciting days play in prospect however.
Now onto the racing and the first day of the July meeting at Newmarket.
1:40 Newmarket - Feel Like Dancing
This race in the past has gone to such horses as Persian Punch, Youmzain, Tranquil Tiger and more recently Masked Marvel. The last two running's have gone to the yard of John Gosden with Masked Marvel and last year with Shantaram, so its clear he sends some good horses to this race. Feel Like Dancing put up a much improved effort last time out when he was second in the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot. Sensibly he takes a step down in trip today to a mile and five furlongs after not really staying the distance over 2 miles. Behind him that day were the reopposing Ray Ward, Boite and Dashing Star, form that should be upheld over this trip. Also on that day was the introduction of cheek pieces for the first time which bought around marked improvement, they stay on today. He has run at Newmarket once before, ending in him only beating one home in a 6 runner race, but that was over a trip too short and in a good race carrying top weight. Preference is for Feel Like Dancing to make it a hat trick in the race for John Gosden. (10/3)
2:10 Newmarket - Figure Of Speech
Godolphin look to have a smart recruit here with Figure Of Speech after winning easily on debut over course and distance, easily dispatching of Whaleweigh Station. His chief rival today looks to be Ballydoyle's Sir John Hawkins, but he looks to need further and is easy to back early on. Mickael Barzalona takes the ride after Adam Kirby rode him for his debut win over this course, Barzalona is a huge positive on this course. Against some of todays rivals he has relatively little experience with just the one outing but as it was over this course and distance, it can be seen as a positive. His sire, Invincible Spirit, has sired some top class horses, most recently with Mayson, Swiss Spirit and over longer trips the top class Hurricane Run. Its clear that class is in his pedigree and this trip is more likely to suit him over some of today's rivals. Figure Of Speech to win for the boys in blue. (9/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Grandeur
Ever since Grandeur won his maiden at Brighton I have been certain he was a group horse, after last year that has been justified as he won two handicaps and a conditions race. His season culminated in a win at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park with a second in between when unlucky in running. The latest victory coming in the Hollywood Cup over todays trip which he saw out well winning easily in the Grade 2. A bit more is needed today on his return to action but should be fit after a racecourse gallop here last week in which he impressed. As William Buick said lately, 'We haven't seen the best of Grandeur yet', a statement I fully agree with and by the end of the year I imagine he'd be contesting top races. Grandeur is taken to find the improvement in a race which he looks overpriced in completely. (9/1)
NAP - Figure Of Speech
Nb - Grandeur
A patent on the three should return a profit but also an each way treble will also be rewarding as the three should all be thereabouts.
Happy Punting!
Alistair Cook won the toss but he went for 13 when England had just 27 runs on the board. It was then up to his fellow opening batsman Joe Root and number 3 Jonathan Trott to steady the ship, which they did until Root was bowled by Siddle. That would be the first of 5 wickets for Peter Siddle, completing the other men that fell to him were Trott, who top scored with 48, Pietersen, Bell and Matt Prior. The only real positive from the England innings was that a few players got settled at the crease but disappointingly didn't go on with their score.
Of the Australian bowling attack, it started out poorly with James Pattinson doing his best Steve Harmison impression by bowling a wide first ball. From then on they gathered pace with Pattinson finishing with figures of 3-69 while debutant Ashton Agar bowled economically for no reward, ending with 0-24. Peter Siddle was the pick of the bowlers with 5-50 off his 14 overs and Mitchell Starc contributed 2 wickets for his 54 runs.
At the close of play England had Australia in a spot of bother as they closed on 74-4, with Shane Watson, Chris Rogers and the danger man Michael Clarke all falling. Late selection, Steve Smith, remains at the crease on 38 and looking dangerous, his partner in the morning will be Philip Hughes who himself is on 7. An exciting days play in prospect however.
Now onto the racing and the first day of the July meeting at Newmarket.
1:40 Newmarket - Feel Like Dancing
This race in the past has gone to such horses as Persian Punch, Youmzain, Tranquil Tiger and more recently Masked Marvel. The last two running's have gone to the yard of John Gosden with Masked Marvel and last year with Shantaram, so its clear he sends some good horses to this race. Feel Like Dancing put up a much improved effort last time out when he was second in the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot. Sensibly he takes a step down in trip today to a mile and five furlongs after not really staying the distance over 2 miles. Behind him that day were the reopposing Ray Ward, Boite and Dashing Star, form that should be upheld over this trip. Also on that day was the introduction of cheek pieces for the first time which bought around marked improvement, they stay on today. He has run at Newmarket once before, ending in him only beating one home in a 6 runner race, but that was over a trip too short and in a good race carrying top weight. Preference is for Feel Like Dancing to make it a hat trick in the race for John Gosden. (10/3)
2:10 Newmarket - Figure Of Speech
Godolphin look to have a smart recruit here with Figure Of Speech after winning easily on debut over course and distance, easily dispatching of Whaleweigh Station. His chief rival today looks to be Ballydoyle's Sir John Hawkins, but he looks to need further and is easy to back early on. Mickael Barzalona takes the ride after Adam Kirby rode him for his debut win over this course, Barzalona is a huge positive on this course. Against some of todays rivals he has relatively little experience with just the one outing but as it was over this course and distance, it can be seen as a positive. His sire, Invincible Spirit, has sired some top class horses, most recently with Mayson, Swiss Spirit and over longer trips the top class Hurricane Run. Its clear that class is in his pedigree and this trip is more likely to suit him over some of today's rivals. Figure Of Speech to win for the boys in blue. (9/2)
2:40 Newmarket - Grandeur
Ever since Grandeur won his maiden at Brighton I have been certain he was a group horse, after last year that has been justified as he won two handicaps and a conditions race. His season culminated in a win at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park with a second in between when unlucky in running. The latest victory coming in the Hollywood Cup over todays trip which he saw out well winning easily in the Grade 2. A bit more is needed today on his return to action but should be fit after a racecourse gallop here last week in which he impressed. As William Buick said lately, 'We haven't seen the best of Grandeur yet', a statement I fully agree with and by the end of the year I imagine he'd be contesting top races. Grandeur is taken to find the improvement in a race which he looks overpriced in completely. (9/1)
NAP - Figure Of Speech
Nb - Grandeur
A patent on the three should return a profit but also an each way treble will also be rewarding as the three should all be thereabouts.
Happy Punting!
Saturday 6 July 2013
Coral Eclipse Day
A more somber Good Morning today as the racing world holds their breath on updates about the health of jockey Brian Toomey. I'm sure you know by now but in case you didn't he took a fall at Perth mid-week resulting in him being hospitalised with 'life-threatening head injuries'. Thankfully since then he has been stabilised, but we wont get the next update until tomorrow, fingers crossed its a positive one.
Racing must go on however and Sandown hold their annual Eclipse meeting, which Al Kazeem is the deserving favourite for with Queen Anne winner, Declaration Of War in at second favourite. He is joined by three year old stablemate in the line-up, Mars who bids to set the record straight after being unlucky at Royal Ascot. It would take a colossal effort for him to come out on top though. The Fugue takes her chance and attempt to improve a poor record for the girls in this race but she also has no easy task. At Royal Ascot she was staying on behind Al Kazeem and the also reopposing Mukhadram who looks sure to set the pace. German raider Pastorius and Miblish round up the field but are also more than capable of shaking up the field. Supporting the card today is the Group 3, Coral Charge in which Dutch Masterpiece takes a step into this company for the first time.
Away from the Esher track there is also a good meeting at Haydock where they host the Lancashire Oaks, won last year by Great Heavens. Albasharah is the hot favourite for Godolphin this year and looks to be a tough filly to beat. There is also action from Beverley this afternoon, followed by evening meetings from Leicester, Carlisle and Nottingham. We only have the one meeting in Ireland today as the Bellewstown festival carries on, where Cheltenham Festival winner Ted Veale takes on Pique Sous.
Today Martin runs a competition on four races at Sandown, the races are as follows: 2:05, 2:40, 3:15 and the 3:50. All you have to do is make a selection in each race and tweet them to @pigeon_island and you are entered in the competition. Players that hit the four out of four will be rewarded with a free bet from BetVictor. To see other players selections and my blog posts for the website visit www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com and remember to follow Martin on twitter.
For a free bet from Betfair if you don't already have an account. Make an account with them and when entering your details type in this code, RCH7K6VRY into the referral code box. Whatever your first deposit, between 25 and 50 pounds, that is what you will receive back a few days later, thus being a free bet. You will only get your money back after you have gambled that first deposited money. The following is from the Betfair website itself. 'If your friend places at least £50* in sports back bets at odds of at least 1.2 in the first 31 days of joining we will credit you with a £25 bonus as a thank you for introducing them. They’ll be eligible for a matched Sportsbook free bet of between £5 and £25.' *The bet must be matched however. I must also stress that I receive a reward for you making your account of however much you first stake, just so you know everything. Good luck with your bet!
Before we begin with this weeks racing, a look back at last week. It was a day that promised so much but never really developed the way we wanted it to after the first two horses in our Lucky 15 won. After Fig Roll and Nabucco went in we were let down by Ghanaian and the very disappointing Libertarian, who was also the week's NAP. However we still ended up with a nice double to keep the bank balance ticking over. But now onto this weeks racing!
2:05 Sandown - Dutch Masterpiece
Long time readers of this blog will know that long ago I branded Dutch Masterpiece a Group horse in the making, he makes his Group race debut today. Two weeks ago he won easily at Newmarket, the reason for him not being a selection on here is simple, I didn't think he would run. In the past connections haven't ran him on faster ground but he showed he is just as effective on it last time out. He was in control of the race around a furlong and a half out and never looked back from there to score by a length and a quarter. The most impressive thing about that win was that he didn't appear to be totally in love with the July Course, mainly the undulations. Throughout the race he seemed to be snatching at the ground and not really striding out fully yet still winning impressively. That win was off 9 pounds higher than his Chester victory previously and the handicapper puts him up another 7 here. That raise leaves Gary Moore with little option but to come here and it will take a good horse to beat him. For some time English Sprinter's have been a bit in the shade and overshadowed by other horses from around the world, Dutch Masterpiece could well be the answer to that. (6/1)
2:55 Haydock - Albasharah
Albasharah was desperately unlucky not to keep her unbeaten title at Royal Ascot after being denied a run at a crucial time. After the incident she stayed on very well for a fast finishing fifth under hands and heels from Silvestre De Sousa. In her three unbeaten runs before that she had impressed on each start and on that form looks a serious animal. Today we will find out just how good she is with the biggest danger potentially coming from Coquet who badly needed her first run. But for today Albasharah looks a definite Group performer and can show that today, nothing else needs to be said. (2/1)
3:50 Sandown - Al Kazeem
Al Kazeem has been a much improved horse this season and is arguably one of the best in Europe, even the world right now. In my opinion, the only horse that can beat him right now is Cirrus Des Aigles who goes for the King George at Ascot. Last time at the Royal meeting he wore down Mukhadram later on in the Prince Of Wales's, showing off his supreme stamina. That was probably as good as the former mentioned is as Paul Hanagan gave him a perfect ride that day from the front. In the end he was just beaten by a very talented individual. The bigger danger may come from the horse in third, The Fugue, but its a big ask for fillies to win this race as history has shown. The same rule applies for Mars as the only three old in the field, but to back him you would be hoping for a much improved performance. As for Declaration Of War, I don't think his stamina will hold out in a Group 1 over this distance, especially one with a confirmed front runner. There are no stamina doubts about the selection though, the only worry being that he needs to have recovered from Ascot, saying that his main rivals all went to Ascot as well. Al Kazeem is a strong selection to land this on the way to tackling The Arc later on in the season. (9/4) (William Hill and Coral will be going 3/1 early this morning)
4:25 Sandown - Model Pupil
Charlie Hills' representative was far from disgraced here two runs ago behind Gloomy Sunday in a Group 3 before shaping well in the Ascot Gold Cup. It looked to me as if Ascot came a year too early for him but he still ran an admirable race to come seventh. If there is one think that is assured it is stamina after firstly seeing out this trip really well in the Henry II and then 4 furlongs further last time. Model Pupil is also a bit unexposed especially compared to his other main rivals, he is also top rated in the field and has bags of room for improvement. James McDonald once again does the steering and he can get a big win to his name here today. The main danger appears to be from Caucus who ran very well on his reappearance behind subsequent Gold Cup winner, Estimate. As long as he doesn't bounce, he should be hard to beat. But preference is for the improving Model Pupil. (5/1)
8:20 Bellewstown - Pique Sous
We have saved the best till last this week with Pique Sous who was a selection on here to win the Supreme Novices at the Cheltenham Festival in March. He returns to the level today over a mile and a half under the sister of Ruby, Katie Walsh who herself has made a reputation. The most important thing for him today is that he gets his beloved fast ground which he needs so badly. The distance is no problem as he is one of the fastest two mile hurdlers around, and after a Dundalk romp before Cheltenham should take some beating. This may only be a bit of a prep run for Galway and eventually the Grimes hurdle at Tipperary, but connections say he is raring to go and is fit. Willie Mullins has been patient with the grey and this looks an ideal opportunity to hopefully round off a good day. (Evens)
NAP - Pique Sous
Nb - Al Kazeem
Id like to say I have a Lucky 15 for you but I cant drop one of the selections with any confidence so we will have to do a Lucky 31 with all 5 horses.
Good Luck and Happy Punting!
Racing must go on however and Sandown hold their annual Eclipse meeting, which Al Kazeem is the deserving favourite for with Queen Anne winner, Declaration Of War in at second favourite. He is joined by three year old stablemate in the line-up, Mars who bids to set the record straight after being unlucky at Royal Ascot. It would take a colossal effort for him to come out on top though. The Fugue takes her chance and attempt to improve a poor record for the girls in this race but she also has no easy task. At Royal Ascot she was staying on behind Al Kazeem and the also reopposing Mukhadram who looks sure to set the pace. German raider Pastorius and Miblish round up the field but are also more than capable of shaking up the field. Supporting the card today is the Group 3, Coral Charge in which Dutch Masterpiece takes a step into this company for the first time.
Away from the Esher track there is also a good meeting at Haydock where they host the Lancashire Oaks, won last year by Great Heavens. Albasharah is the hot favourite for Godolphin this year and looks to be a tough filly to beat. There is also action from Beverley this afternoon, followed by evening meetings from Leicester, Carlisle and Nottingham. We only have the one meeting in Ireland today as the Bellewstown festival carries on, where Cheltenham Festival winner Ted Veale takes on Pique Sous.
Today Martin runs a competition on four races at Sandown, the races are as follows: 2:05, 2:40, 3:15 and the 3:50. All you have to do is make a selection in each race and tweet them to @pigeon_island and you are entered in the competition. Players that hit the four out of four will be rewarded with a free bet from BetVictor. To see other players selections and my blog posts for the website visit www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com and remember to follow Martin on twitter.
For a free bet from Betfair if you don't already have an account. Make an account with them and when entering your details type in this code, RCH7K6VRY into the referral code box. Whatever your first deposit, between 25 and 50 pounds, that is what you will receive back a few days later, thus being a free bet. You will only get your money back after you have gambled that first deposited money. The following is from the Betfair website itself. 'If your friend places at least £50* in sports back bets at odds of at least 1.2 in the first 31 days of joining we will credit you with a £25 bonus as a thank you for introducing them. They’ll be eligible for a matched Sportsbook free bet of between £5 and £25.' *The bet must be matched however. I must also stress that I receive a reward for you making your account of however much you first stake, just so you know everything. Good luck with your bet!
Before we begin with this weeks racing, a look back at last week. It was a day that promised so much but never really developed the way we wanted it to after the first two horses in our Lucky 15 won. After Fig Roll and Nabucco went in we were let down by Ghanaian and the very disappointing Libertarian, who was also the week's NAP. However we still ended up with a nice double to keep the bank balance ticking over. But now onto this weeks racing!
2:05 Sandown - Dutch Masterpiece
Long time readers of this blog will know that long ago I branded Dutch Masterpiece a Group horse in the making, he makes his Group race debut today. Two weeks ago he won easily at Newmarket, the reason for him not being a selection on here is simple, I didn't think he would run. In the past connections haven't ran him on faster ground but he showed he is just as effective on it last time out. He was in control of the race around a furlong and a half out and never looked back from there to score by a length and a quarter. The most impressive thing about that win was that he didn't appear to be totally in love with the July Course, mainly the undulations. Throughout the race he seemed to be snatching at the ground and not really striding out fully yet still winning impressively. That win was off 9 pounds higher than his Chester victory previously and the handicapper puts him up another 7 here. That raise leaves Gary Moore with little option but to come here and it will take a good horse to beat him. For some time English Sprinter's have been a bit in the shade and overshadowed by other horses from around the world, Dutch Masterpiece could well be the answer to that. (6/1)
2:55 Haydock - Albasharah
Albasharah was desperately unlucky not to keep her unbeaten title at Royal Ascot after being denied a run at a crucial time. After the incident she stayed on very well for a fast finishing fifth under hands and heels from Silvestre De Sousa. In her three unbeaten runs before that she had impressed on each start and on that form looks a serious animal. Today we will find out just how good she is with the biggest danger potentially coming from Coquet who badly needed her first run. But for today Albasharah looks a definite Group performer and can show that today, nothing else needs to be said. (2/1)
3:50 Sandown - Al Kazeem
Al Kazeem has been a much improved horse this season and is arguably one of the best in Europe, even the world right now. In my opinion, the only horse that can beat him right now is Cirrus Des Aigles who goes for the King George at Ascot. Last time at the Royal meeting he wore down Mukhadram later on in the Prince Of Wales's, showing off his supreme stamina. That was probably as good as the former mentioned is as Paul Hanagan gave him a perfect ride that day from the front. In the end he was just beaten by a very talented individual. The bigger danger may come from the horse in third, The Fugue, but its a big ask for fillies to win this race as history has shown. The same rule applies for Mars as the only three old in the field, but to back him you would be hoping for a much improved performance. As for Declaration Of War, I don't think his stamina will hold out in a Group 1 over this distance, especially one with a confirmed front runner. There are no stamina doubts about the selection though, the only worry being that he needs to have recovered from Ascot, saying that his main rivals all went to Ascot as well. Al Kazeem is a strong selection to land this on the way to tackling The Arc later on in the season. (9/4) (William Hill and Coral will be going 3/1 early this morning)
4:25 Sandown - Model Pupil
Charlie Hills' representative was far from disgraced here two runs ago behind Gloomy Sunday in a Group 3 before shaping well in the Ascot Gold Cup. It looked to me as if Ascot came a year too early for him but he still ran an admirable race to come seventh. If there is one think that is assured it is stamina after firstly seeing out this trip really well in the Henry II and then 4 furlongs further last time. Model Pupil is also a bit unexposed especially compared to his other main rivals, he is also top rated in the field and has bags of room for improvement. James McDonald once again does the steering and he can get a big win to his name here today. The main danger appears to be from Caucus who ran very well on his reappearance behind subsequent Gold Cup winner, Estimate. As long as he doesn't bounce, he should be hard to beat. But preference is for the improving Model Pupil. (5/1)
8:20 Bellewstown - Pique Sous
We have saved the best till last this week with Pique Sous who was a selection on here to win the Supreme Novices at the Cheltenham Festival in March. He returns to the level today over a mile and a half under the sister of Ruby, Katie Walsh who herself has made a reputation. The most important thing for him today is that he gets his beloved fast ground which he needs so badly. The distance is no problem as he is one of the fastest two mile hurdlers around, and after a Dundalk romp before Cheltenham should take some beating. This may only be a bit of a prep run for Galway and eventually the Grimes hurdle at Tipperary, but connections say he is raring to go and is fit. Willie Mullins has been patient with the grey and this looks an ideal opportunity to hopefully round off a good day. (Evens)
NAP - Pique Sous
Nb - Al Kazeem
Id like to say I have a Lucky 15 for you but I cant drop one of the selections with any confidence so we will have to do a Lucky 31 with all 5 horses.
Good Luck and Happy Punting!
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