Good Evening/Morning and welcome to the weekend, put the kettle on, put your feet up and conserve as much energy for Cheltenham as possible. One thing we wont be conserving is our Cheltenham cash as we look to boost that for a couple of weeks time... hopefully.
They go to post today at Doncaster today as they stage the Grimthorpe Chase won last year by Quentin Collonges. We also go jumping at Newbury and across the border at Kelso whereas they also race at Navan over in Ireland. The final supporting card and a strong one at that comes from Lingfield as they race on the Polytrack.
We have a video prepared for you as always to look over all the racing today. Joining the panel this week is myself (@Lukeelder13), @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours who is on one of his rare working weeks... Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IYFZxlzMQ8
Now lets get on to the racing today and a less hectic day compared to last weekend
2:30 Kelso - Jet Master
Jet Master has been a bit unlucky as of late when either unseating when in contention or just bumping into one on the day, but with disappointments comes a lower handicap mark. He first caught my eye in a race won by festival hope Pendra when coming down three out when still travelling very well behind two nice types. Since then he has put in two good efforts and in between them runs he just failed to stay two miles and five furlongs in a race against Knock A Hand who is a true stayer. Three runs ago Jet Master was 2nd off the same mark as today behind Swift Arrow who is an improving type for Donald McCain. On his latest outing he bumped into another McCain horse who is now rated far higher than today's selection so today could be his day. Jet Master to provide Lucy Alexander with a welcome Saturday winner. (4/1)
3:15 Newbury - Tiqris
Philip Hobbs' Gelding has some good form at a Novice level which was franked again yesterday at Doncaster when Sign Of A Victory absolutely bolted up at a short price. Among the horses he has been close behind as a Novice are two Supreme Novices entries in Josses Hill and Wilde Blue Yonder, the former was runner up in the Tolworth Hurdle. Today he looks to take advantage of what could be a lenient handicap mark of 129 after bumping into on in the form of Vibrato Valtat from Paul Nicholls' yard. Tiqris holds two entries at Cheltenham in the County Hurdle and the Martin Pipe, if he were to realistically get into either of them races a good win is needed today. (11/4)
3:30 Doncaster - Monbeg Dude
I never thought I'd say this but I can't see Monbeg Dude being beaten today after winning impressively at Cheltenham when beating Theatre Guide. The thing that has caught my eye this season is that he has answered all his critics, especially in the jumping department. It seems we can thank Zara Phillips for that as she has been schooling him over the poles back at home which seems to have helped in a big way. He has also answered the critics (Including me) that say he is just a mudlark which isn't untrue but he has showed his ability on Good ground this season. For his impressive win last time out he has been raised 8 pounds which looks fair enough, but 146 is still a winable mark provided he keeps improving. Monbeg Dude to have the ideal National prep with Paul Carberry back on board. (6/1)
4:50 Kelso - Mister Jones
Sue Smith and Ryan Mania have been in fantastic form as of late and team up here for the same connections as Pinerolo last week. Mister Jones steps up in trip today on Handicap Debut after a nice enough effort over three furlongs shorter at Catterick. There was no stopping the winner that day but he was just touched off in the race for second after getting outpaced late on. The better ground today should be no problem whatsoever and a good staying performance in a bumper fills you with a bit more confidence. The yard aren't unfamiliar with first time handicapping winners and an opening mark of 100 could be a touch low. Mister Jones to round the day off in style. (11/2)
NAP - Tiqris
Nb - Monbeg Dude
Have a great day and as always, Happy Punting!
Friday 28 February 2014
Tuesday 25 February 2014
Cheltenham Memories - Barizan
It's two weeks to the day until the 2014 Cheltenham Festival and upon that I thought id provide towards the excitement by sharing some personal favourite memories.
The Triumph Hurdle of 2010 may not go down as a vintage race on the quality side of things, but as terms of viewing you wont find a better race. Carlito Brigante was sent off the 7/2 favourite with Alaivan and Soldatino in behind him in the market, but it was Barizan who wont the hearts of the Cheltenham crowd.
Off the back of a 125 day absence and from a yard not overly associated with top class 4 year olds, Barizan was sent off a 14/1 chance. Not many people could fathom what was going to happen next as Barizan and Tom O'Brien jumped off into a 2 length advantage at the drop of the flag. Turning back towards the stands at the top of the hill the duo were 15 lengths clear with everything else off the bridle, make that 25 lengths clear at two from home. What happened next? Watch and find out...
As you can see little Barizan had his heart broken by Barry Geraghty and Soldatino in the dying strides up the Cheltenham hill.
He may not have been overly fancied that day but at three hurdles out he had almost everyone in the stands on his side and willing him home. Tiredness eventually caught him up after untidy jumps at the final two flights of hurdles and only one of the 16 rivals could get anywhere near him.
He may not have won that day but he remains one of the few horses at Cheltenham to get a louder reception in the winners enclosure than the actual winner himself. For that, Barizan will always be remembered in my Cheltenham history and many others as well.
After Cheltenham, Barizan took to Aintree partnered by AP McCoy when he again found one too good in the shape of Orsippus. Many trainers would call it a day on their horse's season and most animals would have cried enough by now, but Barizan bravely marched on to Punchestown.
In Ireland he finally got his day in the sun when making all once again and reversing form with Orsippus who could do no better than fourth. To this day that victory is the only Grade 1 victory to the name of Barizan but last season he was seen fending off Mr Mole in the Swinton Hurdle.
The Triumph Hurdle of 2010 may not go down as a vintage race on the quality side of things, but as terms of viewing you wont find a better race. Carlito Brigante was sent off the 7/2 favourite with Alaivan and Soldatino in behind him in the market, but it was Barizan who wont the hearts of the Cheltenham crowd.
Off the back of a 125 day absence and from a yard not overly associated with top class 4 year olds, Barizan was sent off a 14/1 chance. Not many people could fathom what was going to happen next as Barizan and Tom O'Brien jumped off into a 2 length advantage at the drop of the flag. Turning back towards the stands at the top of the hill the duo were 15 lengths clear with everything else off the bridle, make that 25 lengths clear at two from home. What happened next? Watch and find out...
As you can see little Barizan had his heart broken by Barry Geraghty and Soldatino in the dying strides up the Cheltenham hill.
He may not have been overly fancied that day but at three hurdles out he had almost everyone in the stands on his side and willing him home. Tiredness eventually caught him up after untidy jumps at the final two flights of hurdles and only one of the 16 rivals could get anywhere near him.
He may not have won that day but he remains one of the few horses at Cheltenham to get a louder reception in the winners enclosure than the actual winner himself. For that, Barizan will always be remembered in my Cheltenham history and many others as well.
After Cheltenham, Barizan took to Aintree partnered by AP McCoy when he again found one too good in the shape of Orsippus. Many trainers would call it a day on their horse's season and most animals would have cried enough by now, but Barizan bravely marched on to Punchestown.
In Ireland he finally got his day in the sun when making all once again and reversing form with Orsippus who could do no better than fourth. To this day that victory is the only Grade 1 victory to the name of Barizan but last season he was seen fending off Mr Mole in the Swinton Hurdle.
 |
| Barizan as he got caught up the hill |
Friday 21 February 2014
It's A Grand Day At Lingfield
Good Morning/Evening everyone I hope you are feeling well as its a monster blog today with eight selections on the cards. Cheltenham Fever is just about in full flow now and the final preparations are taking place including the Supreme second favourite Irving running at Kempton. You may recall he was an ante post selection a few blogs ago so we will be hoping for a good run in a race he really should be winning. As well as Kempton today they also race up at Newcastle who stage the yearly Eider chase over a gruelling four miles and a furlong. They also go to post at Chepstow and Fairyhouse as well as a big day at Lingfield as they hold a Winter Derby trial for which Grandeur is a warm favourite.
As always we have a video prepared for you guys and we also have another Cheltenham Preview. Joining me in this weeks preview is @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell however due to internet problems Adam was unable to join the Cheltenham preview. You can find both links below and the second link will see us talking about the Ryanair and Champion Chase in March.
Today's Link
http://youtu.be/IK0M-PsU1n4
Ryanair and Champion Chase preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKha65k435c
Now onto today's marathon of selections!
1:50 Newcastle - Pinerolo
Sue Smith has her horses in fine form lately including Pinerolo who was victorious by an easy 22 lengths last time at Catterick when well backed twelve days ago. He is one I have had my eye on to make a good chaser for a while now but injury prevented us seeing him over the larger obstacles for a while. He opened up over fences when fourth over two miles here at Newcastle before finishing last of three in a very strong race at Wetherby over half a mile shorter. That was behind Many Clouds and Indian Castle who have both ran with credit since including the latter taking a big Cheltenham handicap on trials day. For his troubles last time he has been raised 15 pounds up to 127 which could still be lenient however on official ratings he has something to find on the top two. If this doesn't come too soon after his last outing then it will take a good horse to stop Pinerolo tomorrow. (5/1)
2:20 Newcastle - Angelot Du Berlais
Dr Richard Newland has an interesting runner here in the French Import Angelot Du Berlais who has been running on the flat as of late. Them runs were only to get him fit as previously he has taken one or two runs to get fit so he turns up today racefit and ready to do himself justice. Last year he made is English debut at Sandown when running well for a long way but faded two from home and went on to win next time out on soft ground. He also showed up well for a long way in last years Fred Winter but in all truth he was probably biting off a bit more he could chew at Cheltenham. Josh Moore is a positive jockey booking for this yard as he takes off three and has been in fantastic form as of late for a variety of stables. Angelot Du Berlais to outrun his odds and provide a big day winner for connections. (8/1)
2:30 Chepstow - Lord Protector
You may remember Lord Protector from a previous blog as he disappointed behind Embsay Crag last time after seemingly not staying the extra distance. He returns to the same trip he won over at Sandown which is a big positive and the ground is definitely not a negative either. The only positive to come from his last race is that the handicapper has consented to drop him two pounds down to 119 which looks easier. Despite only finishing fifth in his last race he was with them a long way and it looked down to nothing more than an issue of stamina, which today's trip will correct. Lord Protector to get back to winning ways today. (11/4)
2:35 Fairyhouse - Wicklow Gold
Wicklow Gold has taken his time to find his feet in the hurdling game but put that right last time when winning very easily last time out in a Maiden Hurdle at Tramore. Today will be his first try in a handicap off a workable mark of 125 following his 27 length romp where he had some useful types in behind him, including a winner since back in third. Before that effort he was a good staying on fourth under hands and heels over today's trip at Clonmel but arguably should have been closer that day. Wicklow Brave to improve for the step into handicap company and make a mockery of 125 today. (4/1)
2:55 Newcastle - Smoking Aces
Jonjo O'Neill saddles the second string of JP McManus runners here but thanks to Maurice Linehan's five pound claim shoulders absolutely no weight whatsoever. Smoking Aces has proved on many occasions this season that he lacks nothing in the stamina department when runner up at Plumpton over three miles and five furlongs. That run came before placing in another National as he third in the West Wales National on desperate ground over a furlong shorter. Today will separate the men from the boys over the gruelling four miles and a furlong but Smoking Aces will be staying on when others have cried enough. Smoking Aces to win the Eider Chase of 2014. (8/1)
3:25 Newcastle - Ivy Gate
Maurice Linehan can land a double with a belated win on Ivy Gate after he was a non runner earlier in the week at Ludlow. Since joining the the team at Jackdaws he has been a good second at Exeter behind Tagrita and V Neck which could work out to be very strong form. He is dropped in trip today after not quite getting home last time out at Towcester but again that form looks strong with Sybarite winning since who was behind Ivy Gate that day. For his efforts Ivy Gate has earned a rating of 122 which puts him well ahead of the rest with Getabuzz and Panama Petrus penalised for victories. Ivy Gate to land his first win on English soil and provide Maurice Linehan with a double. (7/2)
3:30 Lingfield - Grandeur
Globetrotting is often a word that surrounds Grandeur, but he returns home today and Jeremy Noseda has found him a nice opening for him here. Despite a nice field turning out here and Grandeur giving away weight all round, he really should be head and shoulders ahead of his rivals as his rating would suggest. Ryan Moore is a very positive jockey booking and was victorious on him at Goodwood back in September when coming from last to first on ground that is a huge negative for him. We last saw him in December when seventh in Sha Tin after not getting a clear run behind Akeed Mofeed and wasn't far behind Cirrus Des Aigles. The only question marks for today will be surround his fitness but more importantly if he handles the Lingfield Polytrack which shouldn't be an issue. Grandeur to outclass his rivals today on the way to bigger and better things. (7/4)
3:50 Kempton - Baile Anrai
We end today's blog with the big race of the day in the BetBright Chase at Kempton Park although you may know it as the Racing Post Chase. Dan Skelton has really made a name for himself in the training ranks and seems to have rejuvenated Baile Anrai after a huge run behind The Rainbow Hunter last time. For that effort he has been raised an extra five pounds which would need to see a career best but he has won off three pounds lower back in April 2012. There are a few in the race who are looking handicapped out of this but with the lease of life he has been in, this doesn't look beyond Baile Anrai. Dan Skelton to follow in Harry Fry's footsteps in this race and saddle Baile Anrai to victory. (14/1)
NAP - Grandeur
Nb - Ivy Gate
Have a good day and as always Happy Punting!!
As always we have a video prepared for you guys and we also have another Cheltenham Preview. Joining me in this weeks preview is @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell however due to internet problems Adam was unable to join the Cheltenham preview. You can find both links below and the second link will see us talking about the Ryanair and Champion Chase in March.
Today's Link
http://youtu.be/IK0M-PsU1n4
Ryanair and Champion Chase preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKha65k435c
Now onto today's marathon of selections!
1:50 Newcastle - Pinerolo
Sue Smith has her horses in fine form lately including Pinerolo who was victorious by an easy 22 lengths last time at Catterick when well backed twelve days ago. He is one I have had my eye on to make a good chaser for a while now but injury prevented us seeing him over the larger obstacles for a while. He opened up over fences when fourth over two miles here at Newcastle before finishing last of three in a very strong race at Wetherby over half a mile shorter. That was behind Many Clouds and Indian Castle who have both ran with credit since including the latter taking a big Cheltenham handicap on trials day. For his troubles last time he has been raised 15 pounds up to 127 which could still be lenient however on official ratings he has something to find on the top two. If this doesn't come too soon after his last outing then it will take a good horse to stop Pinerolo tomorrow. (5/1)
2:20 Newcastle - Angelot Du Berlais
Dr Richard Newland has an interesting runner here in the French Import Angelot Du Berlais who has been running on the flat as of late. Them runs were only to get him fit as previously he has taken one or two runs to get fit so he turns up today racefit and ready to do himself justice. Last year he made is English debut at Sandown when running well for a long way but faded two from home and went on to win next time out on soft ground. He also showed up well for a long way in last years Fred Winter but in all truth he was probably biting off a bit more he could chew at Cheltenham. Josh Moore is a positive jockey booking for this yard as he takes off three and has been in fantastic form as of late for a variety of stables. Angelot Du Berlais to outrun his odds and provide a big day winner for connections. (8/1)
2:30 Chepstow - Lord Protector
You may remember Lord Protector from a previous blog as he disappointed behind Embsay Crag last time after seemingly not staying the extra distance. He returns to the same trip he won over at Sandown which is a big positive and the ground is definitely not a negative either. The only positive to come from his last race is that the handicapper has consented to drop him two pounds down to 119 which looks easier. Despite only finishing fifth in his last race he was with them a long way and it looked down to nothing more than an issue of stamina, which today's trip will correct. Lord Protector to get back to winning ways today. (11/4)
2:35 Fairyhouse - Wicklow Gold
Wicklow Gold has taken his time to find his feet in the hurdling game but put that right last time when winning very easily last time out in a Maiden Hurdle at Tramore. Today will be his first try in a handicap off a workable mark of 125 following his 27 length romp where he had some useful types in behind him, including a winner since back in third. Before that effort he was a good staying on fourth under hands and heels over today's trip at Clonmel but arguably should have been closer that day. Wicklow Brave to improve for the step into handicap company and make a mockery of 125 today. (4/1)
2:55 Newcastle - Smoking Aces
Jonjo O'Neill saddles the second string of JP McManus runners here but thanks to Maurice Linehan's five pound claim shoulders absolutely no weight whatsoever. Smoking Aces has proved on many occasions this season that he lacks nothing in the stamina department when runner up at Plumpton over three miles and five furlongs. That run came before placing in another National as he third in the West Wales National on desperate ground over a furlong shorter. Today will separate the men from the boys over the gruelling four miles and a furlong but Smoking Aces will be staying on when others have cried enough. Smoking Aces to win the Eider Chase of 2014. (8/1)
3:25 Newcastle - Ivy Gate
Maurice Linehan can land a double with a belated win on Ivy Gate after he was a non runner earlier in the week at Ludlow. Since joining the the team at Jackdaws he has been a good second at Exeter behind Tagrita and V Neck which could work out to be very strong form. He is dropped in trip today after not quite getting home last time out at Towcester but again that form looks strong with Sybarite winning since who was behind Ivy Gate that day. For his efforts Ivy Gate has earned a rating of 122 which puts him well ahead of the rest with Getabuzz and Panama Petrus penalised for victories. Ivy Gate to land his first win on English soil and provide Maurice Linehan with a double. (7/2)
3:30 Lingfield - Grandeur
Globetrotting is often a word that surrounds Grandeur, but he returns home today and Jeremy Noseda has found him a nice opening for him here. Despite a nice field turning out here and Grandeur giving away weight all round, he really should be head and shoulders ahead of his rivals as his rating would suggest. Ryan Moore is a very positive jockey booking and was victorious on him at Goodwood back in September when coming from last to first on ground that is a huge negative for him. We last saw him in December when seventh in Sha Tin after not getting a clear run behind Akeed Mofeed and wasn't far behind Cirrus Des Aigles. The only question marks for today will be surround his fitness but more importantly if he handles the Lingfield Polytrack which shouldn't be an issue. Grandeur to outclass his rivals today on the way to bigger and better things. (7/4)
3:50 Kempton - Baile Anrai
We end today's blog with the big race of the day in the BetBright Chase at Kempton Park although you may know it as the Racing Post Chase. Dan Skelton has really made a name for himself in the training ranks and seems to have rejuvenated Baile Anrai after a huge run behind The Rainbow Hunter last time. For that effort he has been raised an extra five pounds which would need to see a career best but he has won off three pounds lower back in April 2012. There are a few in the race who are looking handicapped out of this but with the lease of life he has been in, this doesn't look beyond Baile Anrai. Dan Skelton to follow in Harry Fry's footsteps in this race and saddle Baile Anrai to victory. (14/1)
NAP - Grandeur
Nb - Ivy Gate
Have a good day and as always Happy Punting!!
Friday 14 February 2014
Wuff To Bark Away The Haydock Clouds
Good Morning/Evening and a good wet weekend to you all, hopefully you all received many Valentine's cards unlike myself and are loved up for today's racing. We are getting closer and closer to Cheltenham and today bring us even more trials as well as it does more inspections which are becoming a daily thing now. Thankfully the day's two main meetings in England at Ascot and Haydock look certain to go ahead albeit in very testing ground. Lingfield obviously have no problems as they are on the polytrack but please take precaution if you are going there today. As far as inspections go, Wincanton will have to pass a precautionary inspection at 7:30am and Gowran Park have announced an inspection for tomorrow morning.
Last week however was a successful one after the first selection being a non runner in Tickity Bleue. The day got off to a great start with our NAP winning in the form of Upswing, but we have Mr McCoy to thank for that ride I think you'll agree. Next up was Balder Succes who jumped fantastically round Warwick and looked a live candidate for the Arkle before Alan King ruled him out of that. Module was next up in the Game Spirit as he outbattled Dodging Bullets and Hillbilly Boy returned us some each way money at Wolverhampton. All round, a very good day and our dinners were paid for! Well done if you backed any of them.
As always we have a video prepared for you previewing the Channel 4 racing and any other notable races in the day. Joining the panel this week are Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and the enigmatic Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We hope you enjoy the show and let us know any fancies of yours tomorrow or indeed at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7aOkIuV3bU
But now onto todays selections!!
2:05 Ascot - Many Clouds
You wont need me to tell you how well Oliver Sherwood's yard have been going this season and Many Clouds is one of his stable stars so far. He started off this season in winning style at Carlisle when comfortably beating Knock A Hand and Holywell over 2 and a half miles, before getting beat at Haydock. That remains his only chase defeat and there is every chance that Black Thunder just had too much toe for him that day with Shotgun Paddy well beaten in third. Last time out he went for a confidence booster at Wetherby in what has turned out to be a very strong race with the other 2 horses in the race winning since. Indian Castle was beaten 16 lengths and went on to beat Annacotty in a handicap at Cheltenham, whereas Pinerolo is a horse I very much like and won at Catterick this week. The step up in trip is well in Many Clouds' favour as I feel he has stamina in abundance and should take all the beating today. (2/1)
3:05 Wincanton - Ut Majeur Aulmes
We will be hoping that Wincanton can pass the morning inspection as if they do Ut Majeur Aulmes will have a great chance. He really impressed me when winning at Uttoxeter in December before running a good race in defeat over course and distance last time out. He was behind Quick Decisson that day but a strongly run race should see them two closer today, but the form horse is the runner up. They were separated by two has since been seen finishing a staying on sixth in the Betfair Hurdle last week at Newbury. The selection himself is a big strapping individual who definitely has a future over fences but a mark of 123 could still be lenient and will take all the beating today. (11/2)
3:15 Ascot - Like Minded
Dan Skelton has done very well with Like Minded after losing his way at Paul Nicholls' yard before one start for Paul Henderson. His first run for the yard was at Kempton when staying on well to grab 2nd behind God's Own who has since performced with credit over fences. He was then sent to Aintree where he duly obliged off a mark of 129 when just repelling Party Rock who was game in defeat. Many horses can win in a handicap and find life much tougher next time out but I was impressed with him in the Lanzarote behind Saphir De Rheu. The runner up in that race has since been second to Fingal Bay at Exeter so once again the form is stacking up nicely. I was impressed with the Like Minded travelled the last day as I could see him being a bit short of speed, but there could just be one more win in him today. (17/2)
4:05 Haydock - Wuff
Wuff is a horse that I really like after seeing him in a bumper here at Haydock when second to the useful Desoto County. He has looked even better in two hurdle wins since then however, firstly when rallying to beat Allow Dallow at Uttoxter over and extended 2 and a half miles. He looked beat that day turning for home but stamina kicked in and he motored up up the far side to win by half a length with Cogry further back in third. He really impressed me last time when providing us with a winning NAP on the blog over half a mile shorter in a good looking race. Both himself and Straidnahanna who re-opposes on worse terms were a long way clear of the third horse when separated by just a short head. In truth Wuff was probably value for further that day after only really getting going when switched out wide after the last when previously held in. One last note is that my good scouse friend Adam Webb informed that Paddy Brennan said he was flat out the whole way last time so the step up to 3 miles is a huge positive. Wuff is taken to step up in trip and class and make it a hat-trick over hurdles. (5/1)
NAP - Wuff
Nb - Many Clouds
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Last week however was a successful one after the first selection being a non runner in Tickity Bleue. The day got off to a great start with our NAP winning in the form of Upswing, but we have Mr McCoy to thank for that ride I think you'll agree. Next up was Balder Succes who jumped fantastically round Warwick and looked a live candidate for the Arkle before Alan King ruled him out of that. Module was next up in the Game Spirit as he outbattled Dodging Bullets and Hillbilly Boy returned us some each way money at Wolverhampton. All round, a very good day and our dinners were paid for! Well done if you backed any of them.
As always we have a video prepared for you previewing the Channel 4 racing and any other notable races in the day. Joining the panel this week are Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and the enigmatic Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We hope you enjoy the show and let us know any fancies of yours tomorrow or indeed at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7aOkIuV3bU
But now onto todays selections!!
2:05 Ascot - Many Clouds
You wont need me to tell you how well Oliver Sherwood's yard have been going this season and Many Clouds is one of his stable stars so far. He started off this season in winning style at Carlisle when comfortably beating Knock A Hand and Holywell over 2 and a half miles, before getting beat at Haydock. That remains his only chase defeat and there is every chance that Black Thunder just had too much toe for him that day with Shotgun Paddy well beaten in third. Last time out he went for a confidence booster at Wetherby in what has turned out to be a very strong race with the other 2 horses in the race winning since. Indian Castle was beaten 16 lengths and went on to beat Annacotty in a handicap at Cheltenham, whereas Pinerolo is a horse I very much like and won at Catterick this week. The step up in trip is well in Many Clouds' favour as I feel he has stamina in abundance and should take all the beating today. (2/1)
3:05 Wincanton - Ut Majeur Aulmes
We will be hoping that Wincanton can pass the morning inspection as if they do Ut Majeur Aulmes will have a great chance. He really impressed me when winning at Uttoxeter in December before running a good race in defeat over course and distance last time out. He was behind Quick Decisson that day but a strongly run race should see them two closer today, but the form horse is the runner up. They were separated by two has since been seen finishing a staying on sixth in the Betfair Hurdle last week at Newbury. The selection himself is a big strapping individual who definitely has a future over fences but a mark of 123 could still be lenient and will take all the beating today. (11/2)
3:15 Ascot - Like Minded
Dan Skelton has done very well with Like Minded after losing his way at Paul Nicholls' yard before one start for Paul Henderson. His first run for the yard was at Kempton when staying on well to grab 2nd behind God's Own who has since performced with credit over fences. He was then sent to Aintree where he duly obliged off a mark of 129 when just repelling Party Rock who was game in defeat. Many horses can win in a handicap and find life much tougher next time out but I was impressed with him in the Lanzarote behind Saphir De Rheu. The runner up in that race has since been second to Fingal Bay at Exeter so once again the form is stacking up nicely. I was impressed with the Like Minded travelled the last day as I could see him being a bit short of speed, but there could just be one more win in him today. (17/2)
4:05 Haydock - Wuff
Wuff is a horse that I really like after seeing him in a bumper here at Haydock when second to the useful Desoto County. He has looked even better in two hurdle wins since then however, firstly when rallying to beat Allow Dallow at Uttoxter over and extended 2 and a half miles. He looked beat that day turning for home but stamina kicked in and he motored up up the far side to win by half a length with Cogry further back in third. He really impressed me last time when providing us with a winning NAP on the blog over half a mile shorter in a good looking race. Both himself and Straidnahanna who re-opposes on worse terms were a long way clear of the third horse when separated by just a short head. In truth Wuff was probably value for further that day after only really getting going when switched out wide after the last when previously held in. One last note is that my good scouse friend Adam Webb informed that Paddy Brennan said he was flat out the whole way last time so the step up to 3 miles is a huge positive. Wuff is taken to step up in trip and class and make it a hat-trick over hurdles. (5/1)
NAP - Wuff
Nb - Many Clouds
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Friday 7 February 2014
AP will Swing to Cheltenham
Good Morning/Evening everyone, it seems a bit of a running theme now that we aren't sure whether racing will go ahead or not in some places. Newbury however are hopeful ahead of their Betfair Hurdle meeting today which promises to be another good race, with Chris Pea Green looking to emulate the great Heathcote. We hope to race at Warwick as well but that meeting must pass an inspection in the morning at 7am, so lets hope we wake up to good news. They also go to post on the all weather at Lingfield as well at Wolverhampton in the evening and Naas hold a good jumps card in Ireland.
Earlier in the week we did our first Cheltenham preview where we looked at the Supreme Novices Hurdle and the Champion Hurdle. As always on the show we had Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We were also very lucky to be joined by Nick Scholfield who gave us updates on Irving and Melodic Rendezvous who hold good chances at Cheltenham. Watch the whole show by clicking the link below and you can also find the show for today in the second link, hope you enjoy the shows!
Cheltenham Preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ
Today's Show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InTvhVz9r9g
Now onto today's selections!
1:35 Warwick - Tickity Bleue
It is no secret that Alan King has had a few problems in his yard, so much so that for the majority of January they shut down and had single figure runners in the month. During the slump before hand Tickity Bleue was one of the minority who won during that time when dead heating over further than this. She probably didn't stay that time as they were walking late on but she has shown before that she has plenty of speed about her so 2 miles will be no problem. Seemingly Wayne Hutchinson could have gone to Newbury to ride Vendor in the Betfair Hurdle but instead comes to Warwick for some good rides. Tickity Bleue to land the opener at Warwick and continue the good form of Alan King. (9/2)
1:50 Newbury - Upswing
If Upswing is going to get into the Pertemps at Cheltenham in March then he is going to have to win this and win well off his mark of 128. Currently he is 7 pounds out of the handicap going on last years ratings for the race so there wont be anything spared in winning today if able. He is still a young horse however and remains an individual with the world of potential as of present so could still have a bit more improvement left. We last saw him at Wincanton when he came down at the last just before his challenge on the eventual winner Champagne West who has since won again from 9 pounds higher. It was his two runs prior that caught my eye after he bolted up at Carlisle before going to a hot handicap at Cheltenham behind Thomas Crapper. Not much got into the race from the back of the field that day except for him and Killala Quay but he managed a good sixth, before staying on well at Sandown over shorter than this. Upswing to win and gain access to the Pertempt while doing so. (7/2)
2:40 Warwick - Balder Succes
It wasn't too long ago that we were talking about Balder Succes as one of the chief Arkle contenders before he fell at Cheltenham and then clearly wasn't right at Sandown last time. Once again his latest run came in the middle of the dry patch at the Alan King yard so can easily be forgotten as they all seem ready first time back. In truth this is a much weaker contest than the selection has been running in and if he is as good as we think then he'll take all the beating today. It can also be thrown in that he is a course and distance winner when jumping fantastically round here in November as he did on chase debut. Balder Succes to stake his Cheltenham claims and follow in the footsteps of his stablemate Valdez. (13/8)
3:00 Newbury - Module
Before we get into the selection here id like to just say one thing. Shame on Betfair and Shame on Newbury Racecourse... Oh sorry, The Racecourse Newbury for bringing a race with a heritage like the Game Spirit to nothing. This year the official name is the 'Betfair Cash Out Chase (Registered as the Game Spirit Chase)' which gives it the same name as a Novice Chase at Haydock in November. Is there any reason it can't be called the Betfair Game Spirit Chase? Or is that too much to ask from either party? Anyway rant over but this is just embarrassing for the sport.
Module was somewhat a disappointment last time at Huntingdon in the Peterborough when fourth behind Riverside Theatre and 9 lengths off the third place horse Captain Chris. He was well fancied by all that day but his jumping seemed to let him down somewhat, so he drops back to the same trip that saw him just beat at Exeter. This looks like it could be an ideal race for him as he gets 3 pounds from Dodging Bullets who of course is a novice as is Raya Star. Tom George's yard has been in decent form as of late and arguably should have had another winner on Friday in Chartreux before falling. Module can get back to winning ways here though in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury Racecourse. (9/4)
7:20 Wolverhampton - Hillbilly Boy
A rare visit to the polytrack now as Hillbilly Boy makes his debut for the 'young' up and coming trainer Martin Smith, after being bought from a seller at Lingfield. He was probably value for a further winning distance last time as his rider dropped his whip 2 furlongs out when beating Kuanyao by a head. There isn't much to him in truth but unlike his trainer he is a good looking individual and he doesn't lack anything in a battle as we found out last time. The highest mark he has held is 83 after finishing down the field in the Chesham at Royal Ascot but has since found the step up to 7 furlongs in his favour. Hillbilly Boy to round off today in style at a nice enough price as well, Good luck to Martin Smith and all involved too!! (10/1)
NAP - Upswing
Nb - Tickity Bleue
Good Luck today guys and as always Happy Punting.
Earlier in the week we did our first Cheltenham preview where we looked at the Supreme Novices Hurdle and the Champion Hurdle. As always on the show we had Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We were also very lucky to be joined by Nick Scholfield who gave us updates on Irving and Melodic Rendezvous who hold good chances at Cheltenham. Watch the whole show by clicking the link below and you can also find the show for today in the second link, hope you enjoy the shows!
Cheltenham Preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ
Today's Show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InTvhVz9r9g
Now onto today's selections!
1:35 Warwick - Tickity Bleue
It is no secret that Alan King has had a few problems in his yard, so much so that for the majority of January they shut down and had single figure runners in the month. During the slump before hand Tickity Bleue was one of the minority who won during that time when dead heating over further than this. She probably didn't stay that time as they were walking late on but she has shown before that she has plenty of speed about her so 2 miles will be no problem. Seemingly Wayne Hutchinson could have gone to Newbury to ride Vendor in the Betfair Hurdle but instead comes to Warwick for some good rides. Tickity Bleue to land the opener at Warwick and continue the good form of Alan King. (9/2)
1:50 Newbury - Upswing
If Upswing is going to get into the Pertemps at Cheltenham in March then he is going to have to win this and win well off his mark of 128. Currently he is 7 pounds out of the handicap going on last years ratings for the race so there wont be anything spared in winning today if able. He is still a young horse however and remains an individual with the world of potential as of present so could still have a bit more improvement left. We last saw him at Wincanton when he came down at the last just before his challenge on the eventual winner Champagne West who has since won again from 9 pounds higher. It was his two runs prior that caught my eye after he bolted up at Carlisle before going to a hot handicap at Cheltenham behind Thomas Crapper. Not much got into the race from the back of the field that day except for him and Killala Quay but he managed a good sixth, before staying on well at Sandown over shorter than this. Upswing to win and gain access to the Pertempt while doing so. (7/2)
2:40 Warwick - Balder Succes
It wasn't too long ago that we were talking about Balder Succes as one of the chief Arkle contenders before he fell at Cheltenham and then clearly wasn't right at Sandown last time. Once again his latest run came in the middle of the dry patch at the Alan King yard so can easily be forgotten as they all seem ready first time back. In truth this is a much weaker contest than the selection has been running in and if he is as good as we think then he'll take all the beating today. It can also be thrown in that he is a course and distance winner when jumping fantastically round here in November as he did on chase debut. Balder Succes to stake his Cheltenham claims and follow in the footsteps of his stablemate Valdez. (13/8)
3:00 Newbury - Module
Before we get into the selection here id like to just say one thing. Shame on Betfair and Shame on Newbury Racecourse... Oh sorry, The Racecourse Newbury for bringing a race with a heritage like the Game Spirit to nothing. This year the official name is the 'Betfair Cash Out Chase (Registered as the Game Spirit Chase)' which gives it the same name as a Novice Chase at Haydock in November. Is there any reason it can't be called the Betfair Game Spirit Chase? Or is that too much to ask from either party? Anyway rant over but this is just embarrassing for the sport.
Module was somewhat a disappointment last time at Huntingdon in the Peterborough when fourth behind Riverside Theatre and 9 lengths off the third place horse Captain Chris. He was well fancied by all that day but his jumping seemed to let him down somewhat, so he drops back to the same trip that saw him just beat at Exeter. This looks like it could be an ideal race for him as he gets 3 pounds from Dodging Bullets who of course is a novice as is Raya Star. Tom George's yard has been in decent form as of late and arguably should have had another winner on Friday in Chartreux before falling. Module can get back to winning ways here though in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury Racecourse. (9/4)
7:20 Wolverhampton - Hillbilly Boy
A rare visit to the polytrack now as Hillbilly Boy makes his debut for the 'young' up and coming trainer Martin Smith, after being bought from a seller at Lingfield. He was probably value for a further winning distance last time as his rider dropped his whip 2 furlongs out when beating Kuanyao by a head. There isn't much to him in truth but unlike his trainer he is a good looking individual and he doesn't lack anything in a battle as we found out last time. The highest mark he has held is 83 after finishing down the field in the Chesham at Royal Ascot but has since found the step up to 7 furlongs in his favour. Hillbilly Boy to round off today in style at a nice enough price as well, Good luck to Martin Smith and all involved too!! (10/1)
NAP - Upswing
Nb - Tickity Bleue
Good Luck today guys and as always Happy Punting.
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