Good Morning/Evening everyone, I greet you in a lowered voice today as at the time of writing any jumps racing looks unlikely. The English summer has gone into overdrive in the past month and we are really starting to feel the effects, but nonetheless we forge on.
Today we hope to race at Sandown, Wetherby and Ffos Las who all hold inspections early in the morning to see if racing will be possible today. Just in case they meet their maker we have two all weather meetings to rescue us with Lingfield and Wolverhampton potentially saving the day. We are assured some jumping in Ireland though as Fairyhouse seem to have avoided all the rain and will definitely go ahead baring accidents.
As always we have a preview video for you prepared but with a few difficulties this week, our apologies for that. We hope you enjoy it nonetheless as I am joined by @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours, alternatively you can follow me on twitter if you dont already at @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy the weekly broadcast!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwYfCwJD7KI
One last thing before we move onto the selections. Earlier this week I put up three Cheltenham Festival ante post selections, you can find them through the link below if you haven't already seen them.
http://lukeelder.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/cheltenham-2014-ante-post-selections.html
Now onto this week's racing!
1:30 Ffos Las - Comte D'anjou
Nick Williams Gelding caught my eye last time out at Sandown in what looks to be a hot Novice Hurdle won by the useful Vaniteux. Despite being beaten 29 and a quarter lengths he ran much better than that margin suggests after leading for the whole way to be headed just before two out. it is also worth noting that he tried to run out before the 2nd last hurdle just where the chase course at Sandown cuts away for the Pond Fence. Today is much easier and Comte D'anjou's only attempt on Heavy ground resulted in a victory when beating Vibrato Valtat who is a decent yardstick at Exeter. The stable really like this one and he should give a bold showing in today's opener at Ffos Las. (No Price Yet)
2:10 Wetherby - No Planning
Sue Smith's yard has been in great form lately and they can have some positive news with No Planning here after Aurora's Encore was forced into retirement through injury this week. He was victorious here in November over 3 miles and a furlong off a 5 pounds lower mark than he runs off here. Today will be all about stamina in the ground so the drop in trip doesn't scare me at all and he has won in testing ground before. Ryan Mania takes to the saddle today who gets on particularly well with him and has won on him three times and placed a further three times. No Planning to land the spoils today. (4/1)
2:45 Wetherby - Rattlin
Rattlin can round off a quickfire Sue Smith double here under Callum Bewley who won on her two runs ago off a 10 pounds lower mark than this. She is stepped back up in trip today after last time struggling for pace late on yet still only finding Saphir River too good on the day. She is back over a trip that she won over two outings ago for today's run however this could well be a tougher race than that. Once again the ground will be no issue to her and it would be no surprise were she to find the winners enclosure once again. Rattlin to relish the step up in trip once more. (5/2)
3:35 Sandown - Soll
Jo Hughes is probably best known for training London Bridge to win the Breeders Cup Marathon last year, but she has a Grand National hope here with Soll. He has shown a liking for Sandown on more than one occasion including a faultless victory here over course and distance last March. The two times he has made the trip to Sandown he has jumped impeccably and was in the process of doing that when lacking race fitness last time. He will strip much fitter for that run and off a pound lower looks to hold every chance, a win would also ensure he gets into the Grand National field. Soll to land another Sandown prize. (7/1) The selection stands if he is redirected to the 2:40 at Ffos Las as well
NAP - Soll
Nb - Comte D'anjou
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting
Friday 31 January 2014
Thursday 30 January 2014
Cheltenham 2014 Ante Post Selections
During the build up to Cheltenham I will be posting some ante post fancies of mine on the blog and introducing a Festival points system! (Oooooooooh) Enjoy!
Mouse Morris had a great day out with Baily Green last year when he was beaten two and a quarter lengths by Simonsig in the Arkle, after looking the winner at one point. In truth two miles has never really been Baily Green's specialist trip despite winning over it 4 times including 3 chases in Novice company. Outside of the Novice ranks he has proved a more than useful horse over 2 and a half miles, after shaping as if stamina was at a premium last time in the Grade 2 Kinloch Brae Chase at Thurles. His jumping was brilliant throughout that race except for at the last when he surrendered the advantage to the smooth travelling Texas Jack, but still managed to rally for 2nd beaten three parts of a length.
Earlier on in the season Baily Green had gone down by a length and a quarter to dual Cheltenham Festival winner Sizing Europe over the same trip. One of the main reasons for the selection is the yearly limbo of who will take their place in the Ryanair and who will go to the Gold Cup which is getting clearer by the day. There
has been sustained support for Benefficient this week which would give the idea that he will be running providing all is well with him. We then work our way down to three horses who will undoubtedly be in the Gold Cup, I speak of Cue Card, Al Ferof and First Lieutenant with Dynaste in next who also has his options open. Further down you get to the likes of Menorah, Cantlow and Hidden Cyclone who in truth really should not be shorter than Baily Green, not that we mind.
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| Baily Green in Action at Cheltenham last year |
In short I fully expect Cheltenham to once again play to Baily Green's strengths and after such a strong display last season, another is very much expected. Note that Mouse Morris has said that Baily Green is much more likely to take up his engagement here if Sprinter Sacre runs in the Champion Chase.
Baily Green - 2 points each way at 25/1 (Ladbrokes and Betfred)
Arkle - Grandouet
I'm expecting a lot of abuse for this next selection which is probably justified but along with the minority on Twitter I feel Grandouet is overpriced. It's hard to believe that he is still just a 7 year old as he seems to have been around forever but remains lightly raced having only seen the racecourse in England and Ireland 16 times. Admittedly a lot of his time off has been forced through injury but in my mind he has strengthened physically every year of his career. Let's start off in a unique fashion and quash some usual counter arguments against him.
He is a bridle horse - Untrue, his victory in the International Hurdle of 2011 and his 2nd in the Henry VIII this season proves that he isn't, he does however travel very stylishly.
He can't jump - Also untrue, sure on his debut he was a bit jittery at times but what Novice isn't? His unseating at the last wasn't entirely his fault but he did make a mistake which you can't deny. He then went on to finish second in a Grade 1 and arguably would have won for a mistake at a bad time, he jumped the tricky Sandown fences very well however.
He is too keen for his own good - This one can be true but do you really think in the Arkle they will be going a crawl? Especially if Champagne Fever turns up to ensure its a stamina test.
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| Grandouet (Centre) winning the International at Cheltenham |
Cheltenham isn't his track - Bar the one time he didn't complete in last years Champion Hurdle his record round Prestbury Park is pretty good. From four completions he is yet to finish outside of the first 3 including a Grade 2 victory and a place as well as a third in a Grade 1. Does that sound like a horse who doesn't like the track?
Finally, he isn't good enough - Grandouet was rated 166 over hurdles and has a Grade 1 and Grade 2 victory to his name, he IS good enough.
So there are a few theories answered about Grandouet and one final point is that it doesn't worry me that he is a maiden over fences. Of course it isn't ideal but he ran with great credit in one of the strongest Novice Chases this season and is yet to run on Good ground which he relishes. Forget his last Kempton effort, that was a farce of a race and he probably should never have ran on ground as soft as it was.
Grandouet - 2 points each way at 16/1 (Paddypower and Bet365)
Supreme - Irving
Paul Nicholls' has one here in Irving that has really impressed me this season on all three starts showing a great temperament and versatility throughout. He started off life in England with a fantastic display at Taunton when beating the potentially useful Cup Final with the minimum of fuss after travelling strongly.
He then went on to what would be his first visit to Ascot in what has to be said was an average race however the runner up has since run well in better company. That race was run very slowly so turned into a dash, but you wouldn't have thought so by looking at how strung out Irving had them at the finish. Once again he moved stylishly throughout and had things in control turning for home, but it was two fantastic jumps helped seal the victory with Nick Scholfield easing him close to home.
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| Irving in winning action at Ascot |
Next on the agenda was the Grade 2 Kennel Gate Novices Hurdle in which Volnay De Thaix was sent off the 4/5 favourite but was brushed aside by Irving. It came as a surprise to many to see Prince Siegfried giving Irving the most to think about but he fell at the last when looking held in truth. This race was run in a completely different manner to his previous victories as Splash Of Ginge ensured a good gallop, but Irving still oozed class with the way he travelled. The only complaint that can be made is that he got in a little bit tight to the second last but he soon picked up and was leading at the last.
The only thing left to mention is that Irving will be taking the route that My Tent Or Yours followed on the run up to Cheltenham last year, by running in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury. He gets into that race off a lenitent mark of 143 which he should be able to handle with no problems but it is a tough race of course.
Irving - 3 points win at 10/1 (Paddypower and Betvictor)
1 point at 33/1 Irving to win the Betfair Hurdle and Supreme Novices (Paddypower and Bet 365)
Friday 24 January 2014
Djak To Stay on Track at Leopardstown
Good Morning/Evening racing fans I hope we are rested up for another big weekend of racing as our clues for Cheltenham stack up and our fancies strengthen. The flagship meetings today come from Cheltenham and Doncaster who stage the Skybet Chase of 2013 for which Unioniste is a strong favourite at the time of writing. The other two meetings of the day come from Lingfield and Leopardstown with some strong races on the latter card.
As always we have prepared a video for you covering all of tomorrow's Channel 4 racing. Joining me this week are the regular's @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and a rare visit from @Mytentoryours!! You can also follow me on twitter at @Lukeelder13. Let us know your thoughts on tomorrow's racing and if you agree with us or not. Enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdNTRmbVjHs
Now onto today's selections!
12:25 Doncaster - Mcllhatton
Paul Nicholls has never hid the fact that he thinks a lot of Mcllhatton and he has shaped well on various occasions in his still young career. We last saw him on the back of a break at Kempton when being beaten by 23 lengths behind runaway winner Junction Fourteen off today's mark. He is dropped a furlong and a half today which looks to be in his favour after not quite staying the last twice but had won in Novice Company before. His only trip to Doncaster came over course and distance when third in a good race behind African Gold and Close Touch who have since gone on to better things. Mcllhatton to get our day off to a flying start. (9/1)
1:15 Cheltenham - The Italian Yob
Today promises to be a good day for Nick Williams and he has a leading chance here with The Italian Yob after scoring well at Sandown last time. He is a big stamp of a horse and always promised to make a better chaser than hurdler which he started to confirm last time out. His strongest form over fences is his 2nd to exciting novice Valdez, a race in which he had Ohio Gold 37 lengths behind him off the same terms as today. Today's ground will be absolutely no problem for him and a 7 pound rise from his Sandown victory looks on the lenient side. The Italian Yob to land the spoils with Annacotty as the biggest danger. (5/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Double Ross
We keep the faith with Double Ross today after he has been profitable for us twice this season already resulting in a rise of 15 pounds. He took his tally over fences to 3 from 5 on New Years Day in absolutely bottomless ground over course and distance again. The writing was on the wall a long way out that day and despite tiring close to home he kept on well beating Cedre Bleu by 4 and a half lengths. He has been raised 8 pounds for his exertions which still may not be enough to stop him winning today as he is still an improving young chaser. Double Ross to land the Cheltenham hat-trick. (7/2)
2:15 Leopardstown - Djakadam
After our jumpers to follow video and his chasing debut, its only fair to put up Djakadam today as he steps up to 2 miles and 5 furlongs. He was thrown in at the deep end on chase debut when taking on the far more experienced Si C'etait Vrai and Minsk, but still had no problems brushing them aside. Back in fifth that day was Katnap who has since gone close behind the highly thought of Mount Colah but back to the selection. Not many horses had me too excited at the beginning of this season but Djakadam was definitely one of them after a promising juvenile hurdle season. Djakadam to land this on the way to bigger things and is an absolute steal of a price. (7/4)
2:50 Leopardstown - Make A Track
Make A Track is another that I have liked for a long time ever since his debut for David Arbuthnot at Sandown before being sold to Ireland. Since joining Charlie Swan's yard he has managed a fourth in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham and was fancied in the Thyestes earlier this week before being taken out. He put in a laboured effort last time in a four runner race at Thurles which can be forgiven as his best form is in bigger fields. Four of his six wins have come in double figure fields and the other two were in 5 and 7 horse fields. He is 9 pounds higher than when landing a competitive handicap at Limerick easily by 15 lengths with Castle Wings back in 2nd place and looks to have something in hand still. Make A Track to make his big price look foolish. (25/1)
NAP - Djakadam
Nb - Make A Track
As always happy punting!!
As always we have prepared a video for you covering all of tomorrow's Channel 4 racing. Joining me this week are the regular's @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and a rare visit from @Mytentoryours!! You can also follow me on twitter at @Lukeelder13. Let us know your thoughts on tomorrow's racing and if you agree with us or not. Enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdNTRmbVjHs
Now onto today's selections!
12:25 Doncaster - Mcllhatton
Paul Nicholls has never hid the fact that he thinks a lot of Mcllhatton and he has shaped well on various occasions in his still young career. We last saw him on the back of a break at Kempton when being beaten by 23 lengths behind runaway winner Junction Fourteen off today's mark. He is dropped a furlong and a half today which looks to be in his favour after not quite staying the last twice but had won in Novice Company before. His only trip to Doncaster came over course and distance when third in a good race behind African Gold and Close Touch who have since gone on to better things. Mcllhatton to get our day off to a flying start. (9/1)
1:15 Cheltenham - The Italian Yob
Today promises to be a good day for Nick Williams and he has a leading chance here with The Italian Yob after scoring well at Sandown last time. He is a big stamp of a horse and always promised to make a better chaser than hurdler which he started to confirm last time out. His strongest form over fences is his 2nd to exciting novice Valdez, a race in which he had Ohio Gold 37 lengths behind him off the same terms as today. Today's ground will be absolutely no problem for him and a 7 pound rise from his Sandown victory looks on the lenient side. The Italian Yob to land the spoils with Annacotty as the biggest danger. (5/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Double Ross
We keep the faith with Double Ross today after he has been profitable for us twice this season already resulting in a rise of 15 pounds. He took his tally over fences to 3 from 5 on New Years Day in absolutely bottomless ground over course and distance again. The writing was on the wall a long way out that day and despite tiring close to home he kept on well beating Cedre Bleu by 4 and a half lengths. He has been raised 8 pounds for his exertions which still may not be enough to stop him winning today as he is still an improving young chaser. Double Ross to land the Cheltenham hat-trick. (7/2)
2:15 Leopardstown - Djakadam
After our jumpers to follow video and his chasing debut, its only fair to put up Djakadam today as he steps up to 2 miles and 5 furlongs. He was thrown in at the deep end on chase debut when taking on the far more experienced Si C'etait Vrai and Minsk, but still had no problems brushing them aside. Back in fifth that day was Katnap who has since gone close behind the highly thought of Mount Colah but back to the selection. Not many horses had me too excited at the beginning of this season but Djakadam was definitely one of them after a promising juvenile hurdle season. Djakadam to land this on the way to bigger things and is an absolute steal of a price. (7/4)
2:50 Leopardstown - Make A Track
Make A Track is another that I have liked for a long time ever since his debut for David Arbuthnot at Sandown before being sold to Ireland. Since joining Charlie Swan's yard he has managed a fourth in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham and was fancied in the Thyestes earlier this week before being taken out. He put in a laboured effort last time in a four runner race at Thurles which can be forgiven as his best form is in bigger fields. Four of his six wins have come in double figure fields and the other two were in 5 and 7 horse fields. He is 9 pounds higher than when landing a competitive handicap at Limerick easily by 15 lengths with Castle Wings back in 2nd place and looks to have something in hand still. Make A Track to make his big price look foolish. (25/1)
NAP - Djakadam
Nb - Make A Track
As always happy punting!!
Friday 17 January 2014
Land Seeks to Score at Lingfield
Good Morning/Evening Racing fans, I trust we are all rested for a big weekend of racing and to hopefully make a bit of money. Last week was a bit of a damp squib with none of the three runners doing too much, but we will hopefully leave that well behind today. They go to post today at Ascot who stage their yearly Sodexo Clarence House Chase (formerly known as the Victor Chandler) where Sire De Grugy is a warm order. They also race at Haydock who hold the Peter Marsh as well as three other Grade 2 events in which we see Ptit Zig take on Melodic Rendezvous. The supporting cards today come from Lingfield, Naas and Taunton if it passes a precautionary inspection at 7:30am.
As always we have a video prepared for you covering today's racing, joining me this week are a couple of the regulars in @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. Find the show in the link below and let us know your fancies either on twitter or in the comments section below. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR6lp3ie79g
Also before we start today's selections id like to ask of a favour from you all, which is rare for me! Late last year a good friend of mine lost his mother to MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Along with 3 other mentalists he is running the Brighton Marathon in April in honour of Helen Cook and to raise money for MS Research Treatment and Education. It would mean a lot to me and to Rob if you could sponsor them as Helen wasn't just a mother but a dear friend to... Well, everyone she ever met. If you have a winner today please have a think about sponsoring Rob, Jack, Tom and Matt. Thank you very much, lets raise some money!! Oh did I mention they are all running as Teletubbies!?
http://www.justgiving.com/
Once again, thank you very much for sponsoring if you do, if not then no worries :)
Now, onto today's selections!!
2:25 Ascot - Get Back In Line
We start today off with the Jonjo O'Neill trained Get Back In Line, who was running a big race in the Gerry Feilden on seasonal reappearance when unseating two out. He has only graced the racecourse with his presence three times but looked full of potential on the first two outings at Plumpton and Catterick. He started off in a strong Novice hurdle when second to his useful stable mate Mr Watson under today's jockey Maurice Linehan. He went one better next time out at Catterick when winning nicely over a longer trip beating King Of The Wolds by two and a half lengths. I would be surprised if he isn't off a winning mark today especially with a 5 pound claimer on board, who in my mind is the best claimers around at the moment. (5/1)
2:35 Lingfield - Seek The Fair Land
Lee Carter trains a course specialist here in Seek The Fair Land who seldom runs a poor race at Lingfield and proved that once more when 2nd over course and distance last time. He reopposes Valmina that day who beat him by three quarters of a length but he faces the selection on 3 pound worse terms today. Seek The Fair Land was raised 2 pounds for that effort after being forced wide round the home turn, when the winner got a dream split late on. In truth he would probably be best over 7 furlongs here but has more than enough pace to win over a furlong shorter, so expect him to be finishing fast and late. One last mention that the in form Louis Steward takes off a very valuable 7 pounds meaning he is running off 18 pounds lower than his last winning mark. Seek The Fair Land to find the Lingfield winners enclosure once more. (6/1)
3:15 Haydock - Katenko
Today would appear an all or bust task for Katenko in a sense that if he doesn't win today the Gold Cup dream for this year could be over. He made his seasonal reappearance in the Hennessy and was still travelling strongly when he fell at the 14th fence but jumped very well before that mistake. He then had an outing at Aintree just a week later and was disappointing to say the least in a race he would win if 100% fit. It is best to forget that run after a potentially well needed break to get his confidence back when jumping a fence. There is every chance that he is still of a fairly low mark as I still dont think we have seen the best of Katenko, but if he shows that today he will be very hard to stop. Katenko to win with the main danger being Vino Griego after an impressive Sandown display. (9/2)
3:50 Haydock - Wuff
First of all id like to say what an incredible name this horse has and I'm not barking mad to fancy it... Anybody get the pun? No? Ok we'll carry on then. He first caught my eye when second to Desoto County on his debut bumper run, he is the type of horse that isn't built for bumper races at all yet almost made all. Since then he has run over hurdles at Uttoxeter when beating the promising Allow Dallow with a fantastic battling display. Turning for home he looked beaten but then stamina kicked in to get up late in the race under today's jockey, Paddy Brennan who was in good form in the week. He looks the perfect horse to take to these fixed brush hurdles and a fast pace would be a huge positive. Wuff to take his tally to 2 from 2 over hurdles in Terrier like fashion... Ok fine ill stop now!! (No Price Yet)
4:15 Lingfield - Dutchartcollector
We round off today's blog with a Gary Moore runner at Lingfield in what could be a big day for the yard with Sire De Grugy and Vino Griego out. Dutchartcollector should be able to give him at least one winner in the last after last time losing his maiden tag at Kempton. There is no doubt in my mind that he is a better horse than a rating of 64 and over a further 2 furlongs than last time he should be too good for these. Throughout the whole race last time George Baker was pushing him along which was odd but after he showed enough speed for 6 furlongs previously. It could just be that he was winning when having an off day which could mean he is thrown in today. Dutchartcollector to follow up his win last time. (10/3)
NAP - Seek The Fair Land
Nb - Get Back In Line
Happy Punting as always, Good Luck!!
As always we have a video prepared for you covering today's racing, joining me this week are a couple of the regulars in @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. Find the show in the link below and let us know your fancies either on twitter or in the comments section below. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR6lp3ie79g
Also before we start today's selections id like to ask of a favour from you all, which is rare for me! Late last year a good friend of mine lost his mother to MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Along with 3 other mentalists he is running the Brighton Marathon in April in honour of Helen Cook and to raise money for MS Research Treatment and Education. It would mean a lot to me and to Rob if you could sponsor them as Helen wasn't just a mother but a dear friend to... Well, everyone she ever met. If you have a winner today please have a think about sponsoring Rob, Jack, Tom and Matt. Thank you very much, lets raise some money!! Oh did I mention they are all running as Teletubbies!?
http://www.justgiving.com/
Once again, thank you very much for sponsoring if you do, if not then no worries :)
Now, onto today's selections!!
2:25 Ascot - Get Back In Line
We start today off with the Jonjo O'Neill trained Get Back In Line, who was running a big race in the Gerry Feilden on seasonal reappearance when unseating two out. He has only graced the racecourse with his presence three times but looked full of potential on the first two outings at Plumpton and Catterick. He started off in a strong Novice hurdle when second to his useful stable mate Mr Watson under today's jockey Maurice Linehan. He went one better next time out at Catterick when winning nicely over a longer trip beating King Of The Wolds by two and a half lengths. I would be surprised if he isn't off a winning mark today especially with a 5 pound claimer on board, who in my mind is the best claimers around at the moment. (5/1)
2:35 Lingfield - Seek The Fair Land
Lee Carter trains a course specialist here in Seek The Fair Land who seldom runs a poor race at Lingfield and proved that once more when 2nd over course and distance last time. He reopposes Valmina that day who beat him by three quarters of a length but he faces the selection on 3 pound worse terms today. Seek The Fair Land was raised 2 pounds for that effort after being forced wide round the home turn, when the winner got a dream split late on. In truth he would probably be best over 7 furlongs here but has more than enough pace to win over a furlong shorter, so expect him to be finishing fast and late. One last mention that the in form Louis Steward takes off a very valuable 7 pounds meaning he is running off 18 pounds lower than his last winning mark. Seek The Fair Land to find the Lingfield winners enclosure once more. (6/1)
3:15 Haydock - Katenko
Today would appear an all or bust task for Katenko in a sense that if he doesn't win today the Gold Cup dream for this year could be over. He made his seasonal reappearance in the Hennessy and was still travelling strongly when he fell at the 14th fence but jumped very well before that mistake. He then had an outing at Aintree just a week later and was disappointing to say the least in a race he would win if 100% fit. It is best to forget that run after a potentially well needed break to get his confidence back when jumping a fence. There is every chance that he is still of a fairly low mark as I still dont think we have seen the best of Katenko, but if he shows that today he will be very hard to stop. Katenko to win with the main danger being Vino Griego after an impressive Sandown display. (9/2)
3:50 Haydock - Wuff
First of all id like to say what an incredible name this horse has and I'm not barking mad to fancy it... Anybody get the pun? No? Ok we'll carry on then. He first caught my eye when second to Desoto County on his debut bumper run, he is the type of horse that isn't built for bumper races at all yet almost made all. Since then he has run over hurdles at Uttoxeter when beating the promising Allow Dallow with a fantastic battling display. Turning for home he looked beaten but then stamina kicked in to get up late in the race under today's jockey, Paddy Brennan who was in good form in the week. He looks the perfect horse to take to these fixed brush hurdles and a fast pace would be a huge positive. Wuff to take his tally to 2 from 2 over hurdles in Terrier like fashion... Ok fine ill stop now!! (No Price Yet)
4:15 Lingfield - Dutchartcollector
We round off today's blog with a Gary Moore runner at Lingfield in what could be a big day for the yard with Sire De Grugy and Vino Griego out. Dutchartcollector should be able to give him at least one winner in the last after last time losing his maiden tag at Kempton. There is no doubt in my mind that he is a better horse than a rating of 64 and over a further 2 furlongs than last time he should be too good for these. Throughout the whole race last time George Baker was pushing him along which was odd but after he showed enough speed for 6 furlongs previously. It could just be that he was winning when having an off day which could mean he is thrown in today. Dutchartcollector to follow up his win last time. (10/3)
NAP - Seek The Fair Land
Nb - Get Back In Line
Happy Punting as always, Good Luck!!
Friday 10 January 2014
Longsdon Holds The Quay to Warwick
Good Morning/Evening racing fans, I hope we are all rested and after last week's disappointment ready to get back with some top class racing. Obviously last weekend was a bit of a washout, but we still had two selections run at Newcastle but I think you'll agree the less said the better. As I write this all meetings are currently going ahead albeit in very testing conditions, but that is better than no racing at all of course.
They go to post today at Kempton, Warwick and Wetherby over jumps as well as action from Lingfield on the all weather. They also race at Punchestown over in Ireland where we will get another chance to see Vautour who is the favourite for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
As always we have a video prepared for you guys as we managed to overcome some technical difficulties, better late than never though, right? Joining me this week were the regulars who are more affectionately known as @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. You can also follow me on Twitter by searching for @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy our preview.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfsCYTJAU9I
Now onto the selections!!
12:10 Warwick - Flementime
Martin Keighley could have a good mare here with Flementime after she chased home the smart Legacy Gold at Uttoxeter last time off the back of a long layoff. Previously she won her first bumper in nice style before finishing 6th in the big mares bumper at the Aintree Grand National meeting. After that run she picked up an injury hence the reason why we didn't see her for 606 days but left a good impression albeit in a lower class. The step up in trip will help her cause markedly today and with a season aim of winning the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, she looks an exciting sort. Flementime to make up for lost time. (9/1)
2:50 Wetherby - Lord Protector
Last week we had Lord Protector as one of the days main fancies before the meeting got called off at Wincanton, but we persist this week. He left a big impression on me when winning at Sandown but faces an 11 pound rise for his troubles which I can't see as being too much of an issue. He is a very imposing type that will almost certainly improve for a fence as mentioned last week but off a mark of 121 could still do some damage over the smaller obstacles. Behind him at Sandown were two very likable types in Uhlan Bute and a horse that I hold in high regard called Reverb, with a break back to the fourth placed horse. This looks an easier race than his last outing and despite strong opposition from Shimla Dawn, preference is for Lord Protector. (7/2)
3:00 Warwick - Killala Quay
Killala Quay won on the same day as Lord Protector at Sandown when landing a similar event to this one albeit maybe a touch weaker. I clearly had placeitis that day as a horse that I really like called Beat That was back in second and would have arguably won if he didn't make a mess of the last. That is taking nothing away from Killala Quay who kept on in good fashion after looking beat two hurdles from home. Stamina is clearly one of his strong points and the softer ground today will undoubtedly help him on that front and Jason Maguire is riding out of his skin at present. Killala Quay to boost his Cheltenham credentials and burst a bubble or two in the process. (5/1)
NAP - Lord Protector
Nb - Killala Quay
As always happy punting!!
They go to post today at Kempton, Warwick and Wetherby over jumps as well as action from Lingfield on the all weather. They also race at Punchestown over in Ireland where we will get another chance to see Vautour who is the favourite for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
As always we have a video prepared for you guys as we managed to overcome some technical difficulties, better late than never though, right? Joining me this week were the regulars who are more affectionately known as @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. You can also follow me on Twitter by searching for @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy our preview.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfsCYTJAU9I
Now onto the selections!!
12:10 Warwick - Flementime
Martin Keighley could have a good mare here with Flementime after she chased home the smart Legacy Gold at Uttoxeter last time off the back of a long layoff. Previously she won her first bumper in nice style before finishing 6th in the big mares bumper at the Aintree Grand National meeting. After that run she picked up an injury hence the reason why we didn't see her for 606 days but left a good impression albeit in a lower class. The step up in trip will help her cause markedly today and with a season aim of winning the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, she looks an exciting sort. Flementime to make up for lost time. (9/1)
2:50 Wetherby - Lord Protector
Last week we had Lord Protector as one of the days main fancies before the meeting got called off at Wincanton, but we persist this week. He left a big impression on me when winning at Sandown but faces an 11 pound rise for his troubles which I can't see as being too much of an issue. He is a very imposing type that will almost certainly improve for a fence as mentioned last week but off a mark of 121 could still do some damage over the smaller obstacles. Behind him at Sandown were two very likable types in Uhlan Bute and a horse that I hold in high regard called Reverb, with a break back to the fourth placed horse. This looks an easier race than his last outing and despite strong opposition from Shimla Dawn, preference is for Lord Protector. (7/2)
3:00 Warwick - Killala Quay
Killala Quay won on the same day as Lord Protector at Sandown when landing a similar event to this one albeit maybe a touch weaker. I clearly had placeitis that day as a horse that I really like called Beat That was back in second and would have arguably won if he didn't make a mess of the last. That is taking nothing away from Killala Quay who kept on in good fashion after looking beat two hurdles from home. Stamina is clearly one of his strong points and the softer ground today will undoubtedly help him on that front and Jason Maguire is riding out of his skin at present. Killala Quay to boost his Cheltenham credentials and burst a bubble or two in the process. (5/1)
NAP - Lord Protector
Nb - Killala Quay
As always happy punting!!
Friday 3 January 2014
Hobbs to be Lord of Wincanton
Good Morning and welcome to the first blog I have written in 2014, lets hope it's a lucky one for us all. Our New Year's Day blog was a tad disappointing in my eyes, but at least Double Ross got us out of trouble when landing his second NAP for us. Call me arrogant but i'm still not prepared to tip Oscar Whisky as a potential top chaser, time will tell I suppose.
Unfortunately Sandown has had to abandon today's meeting but the Tolworth Hurdle has been rescheduled for Kempton next week so it's not all bad news. Racing will hopefully go ahead at Wincanton but they must pass an inspection this morning however they remain hopeful. Two meetings that aren't under threat are Newcastle and Lingfield who stage an all weather meeting on Channel 4, they also race in Ireland at Cork.
As always we have a video prepared for you today as we preview all the Channel 4 races tomorrow and hopefully tip some winners. Joining me this week is @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours as we run through the races at Lingfield and Wincanton. Hope you enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzY1mSQ-e8Q
Now onto this week's selections!!
12:35 Newcastle - Dancing Art
Dancing Art looks the obvious selection in what looks a fairly weak race involving just four participants. He returned from just over a year off last time out and needed it badly but still ran creditably for a long way before being found out. That came over a six furlong further trip and it proved too much hence the drastic drop down to the extended two miles. This is a much weaker race today and you'd fancy if he has progressed at all from his reappearance that he will take some catching. It is also worth noting that the stable look to be in decent form and the two pound ease in the handicap wont hold him back. (2/1)
1:40 Newcastle - Etxalar
Lucinda Russell's representative was back to form last time when making all at Carlisle after being dropped to 3 miles having previously tackled further. His jumping won him the race that day and was absolutely faultless at all of the obstacles while staying on in determined fashion. He was raised 5 pounds for that win which is eye catching for me as he looked better value for the 5 length victory as it was never really in doubt. The only nagging doubt is the form of the yard as they haven't particularly been amongst the winners lately but have shown glimpses of a revival. Etxalar to run his rivals into the ground. (7/2)
2:05 Wincanton - Consigliere
Consigliere is somewhat a veteran these days but has shown some of his old sparkle on his last two starts, most notably last time out when sixth behind Lancetto at Ascot. That was over 2 miles and a furlong which these days is too sharp for the old boy, today's return to two miles and five furlongs will be much more to his liking. As a result of the poor efforts so far this season he has dropped down to a lowly 136 with Kieron Edgar's 7 pound claim on top of that. The ground today will be absolutely perfect for him as he loves getting his toe in and its very notable that early money is coming for him. Consigliere to roll back the years and gain his 2nd victory in this race. (11/4)
2:40 Wincanton - Lord Protector
I have spent most of the week debating whether Lord Protector will go to Sandown or come here instead, that decision was made for him with the other meeting being abandoned. He left a huge impression on me when winning nicely last time at Sandown beating Uhlan Bute and a horse I really like called Reverb. The ground wont be a problem for this big stamp of a horse and it could just be that he has taken a little bit of time to grow into himself. The big question mark today is whether he can contend with a hefty 11 pound rise from last time, personally I don't think we have brushed on his ability and it shouldn't be a problem. (6/1)
NAP - Consigliere
Nb - Lord Protector
As always happy punting and be lucky!
Unfortunately Sandown has had to abandon today's meeting but the Tolworth Hurdle has been rescheduled for Kempton next week so it's not all bad news. Racing will hopefully go ahead at Wincanton but they must pass an inspection this morning however they remain hopeful. Two meetings that aren't under threat are Newcastle and Lingfield who stage an all weather meeting on Channel 4, they also race in Ireland at Cork.
As always we have a video prepared for you today as we preview all the Channel 4 races tomorrow and hopefully tip some winners. Joining me this week is @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours as we run through the races at Lingfield and Wincanton. Hope you enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzY1mSQ-e8Q
Now onto this week's selections!!
12:35 Newcastle - Dancing Art
Dancing Art looks the obvious selection in what looks a fairly weak race involving just four participants. He returned from just over a year off last time out and needed it badly but still ran creditably for a long way before being found out. That came over a six furlong further trip and it proved too much hence the drastic drop down to the extended two miles. This is a much weaker race today and you'd fancy if he has progressed at all from his reappearance that he will take some catching. It is also worth noting that the stable look to be in decent form and the two pound ease in the handicap wont hold him back. (2/1)
1:40 Newcastle - Etxalar
Lucinda Russell's representative was back to form last time when making all at Carlisle after being dropped to 3 miles having previously tackled further. His jumping won him the race that day and was absolutely faultless at all of the obstacles while staying on in determined fashion. He was raised 5 pounds for that win which is eye catching for me as he looked better value for the 5 length victory as it was never really in doubt. The only nagging doubt is the form of the yard as they haven't particularly been amongst the winners lately but have shown glimpses of a revival. Etxalar to run his rivals into the ground. (7/2)
2:05 Wincanton - Consigliere
Consigliere is somewhat a veteran these days but has shown some of his old sparkle on his last two starts, most notably last time out when sixth behind Lancetto at Ascot. That was over 2 miles and a furlong which these days is too sharp for the old boy, today's return to two miles and five furlongs will be much more to his liking. As a result of the poor efforts so far this season he has dropped down to a lowly 136 with Kieron Edgar's 7 pound claim on top of that. The ground today will be absolutely perfect for him as he loves getting his toe in and its very notable that early money is coming for him. Consigliere to roll back the years and gain his 2nd victory in this race. (11/4)
2:40 Wincanton - Lord Protector
I have spent most of the week debating whether Lord Protector will go to Sandown or come here instead, that decision was made for him with the other meeting being abandoned. He left a huge impression on me when winning nicely last time at Sandown beating Uhlan Bute and a horse I really like called Reverb. The ground wont be a problem for this big stamp of a horse and it could just be that he has taken a little bit of time to grow into himself. The big question mark today is whether he can contend with a hefty 11 pound rise from last time, personally I don't think we have brushed on his ability and it shouldn't be a problem. (6/1)
NAP - Consigliere
Nb - Lord Protector
As always happy punting and be lucky!
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