Good Morning/Evening everyone, I hope you are all ready to the return of the flat season today as we start off with the Brocklesby and the day's feature race in England, the Lincoln. The two races mentioned are of course at Doncaster but we also race on the level at Kempton as well as over jumps at Stratford and Uttoxeter. There is only one other meeting in the UK today as Navan stage a good National Hunt card over in Ireland including Baily Green who fell at Cheltenham. However the main meeting is of course at Meydan in Dubai as they stage the yearly World Cup night card including Ruler Of The World who is favourite for the big race.
Last week we found two winners out of two bets but I will say no more about Ladies Are Forever who can go down as an unlucky loser. Roalco De Farges and Ertijaal were the two winners to provide us with a nice double but we will be hoping for a few more winners today!
As always we have a weekly video prepared for you as well as two more preview's of the Flat season as a whole and once again of the Meydan card tonight. Joining the panel for the weekly video and Flat season preview are the usual suspects of myself, @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours. We were privileged to be joined by Andrew Rideout (@thoroughbredAR) once more for the Meydan video, hope you enjoy them!
Flat Season Preview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3bmkYaQdco
Meydan World Cup Night Preview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXoJ8y_z7HI
Weekly Preview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DPWetxR-5c
Link to be added later
Now onto today's selections!
1:45 Meydan - Cavalryman
Our first visit to Meydan today with Cavalryman who looks to make it back to back wins in the Dubai Gold Cup after winning the race last year. He was also victorious here last time out over two furlongs shorter when impressive over a mile and six furlongs, beating Star Empire by five and a half lengths. One argument against him is that he isn't a true stayer although he has won twice over two miles and twice over a mile and six furlongs. Staying power isn't a huge doubt for me and he is clearly more than good enough, so it is Cavalryman who is taken to land the race for the second time in as many years. (5/2)
2:25 Meydan - Giovanni Boldini
We look to notch up a quick double at Meydan with the exciting Giovanni Boldini who was last seen when runner up to Outstrip at the Breeders Cup. There was more than meets the eye that day as he tried to keep in touch with Bobby's Kitten, who went off way too fast and set the fastest sectionals in the history of the race. Both of them suffered from that electric pace and Outstrip was there to pick up the pieces late on but Giovanni Boldini wasn't far away. Before that effort he had won a Dundalk race easily after finishing a good third to Toormore in the National Stakes at The Curragh, which is no bad thing as he is second favourite for the Guineas this year. Giovanni Boldini to make it a hat trick in the race for trainer Aidan O'Brien after victories with Daddy Long Legs and Lines Of Battle. (3/1)
2:40 Doncaster - Tropics
Tropics is widely regarded as a horse to follow and he renews his rivalry with the classy Jack Dexter here today as they both return from winter breaks. As many of you will know I am a big fan of Jack Dexter but there is no doubting that he is better with cut in the ground, for that reason Tropics is preferred today. Last season Tropics improved from a rating of 84 all the way up to his current mark of 116 and he could still be better than that. His most impressive effort last season came in his most recent run in the Benbough Stakes at Ascot when beating Music Master easily by three and a half lengths. The main worry for me as with many horses today is that he must prove he is racefit as he was 7th on his seasonal reappearance last year. We side with Tropics to get his season off to a winning start. (10/3)
3:50 Doncaster - Jack's Revenge
George Baker's Gelding just about gets in the Lincoln this year with only four below him in the weights, but a mark of 95 looks more than workable. You have to back Jack's Revenge with a good temperament as he isn't the easiest horse to win with, on more than one occasion last year he looked the winner before getting other ideas. If he is to win a race this season then this could well be it as he gets his ground and ran nicely off a two pound lower mark at York when finding only Graphic too good. One of the big worries however is that he hasn't got his head in front since July of 2012 but has ran with promise on many occasions. Fergus Sweeney will have his hands full today but Jack's Revenge could finally get his head in front once again. (14/1)
4:35 Navan - Baily Green
As many of you know I thought that it was a simply moronic idea to run Baily Green in the Champion Chase at Cheltenham as it showed when he was taken off his feet. As a result of the fast pace his jumping suffered resulting in him falling at the top of the hill but in truth he always looked uncomfortable. The step up to two and a half miles should be right up his street after a good show in the Kinloch Brae at Thurles in January. He probably should have won that day but for making a mistake at the last before rallying on the run in behind Texas Jack. His only other attempt over this distance this season was when he chased home Sizing Europe at Gowran Park, going down by only a length and three quarters. With Bog Warrior likely to set a good pace we take Baily Green to pick up the spoils and prove his worth over the distance. (10/11) Note that after writing this the prices were released and Baily Green is a shade of odds on, after doing the work I wont delete the entry but I will take the stick if he loses... Gulp!
NAP - Cavalryman
Nb - Giovanni Boldini
Good luck if you have a bet today and as always, happy punting!
Friday 28 March 2014
Friday 21 March 2014
Ivy To Close The Gate On His Rivals
Good Morning/Evening to you all and welcome to the first blog in a weird time of the year just after Cheltenham and before Aintree, something I call no man's land. I hope you all had a fantastic Festival week and even better if you found a few winners throughout the course of the four days.
We race today at Newbury, Bangor and Stratford over jumps in England with Kelso staging a decent National Hunt card across the border in Scotland. The only other meeting over jumps is in Ireland as Gowran Park stage a seven race card where the star attraction is Vicky De L'Oasis. Lingfield stage the best card in the country on the all weather however as they stage the Winter Derby in which Grandeur is a warm order and should take all the beating.
Ontheotherhoof is back after a short time off for Cheltenham week but we hope you enjoyed our preview videos leading up to the Festival. Today we preview the Channel 4 races today and any other races that get requested, joining me today is @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121, enjoy the show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqw7jit4F_Y
Now onto today's selections!
2:40 Lingfield - Ladies Are Forever
We start today off at Lingfield with last year's winner Ladies Are Forever who looks to emulate Arganil who won this race back to back in 2009 and 2010. There are a few main contenders in the race that will be having their first runs of the season, including Stepper Point and Kingsgate Choice so there is a chance they will be found a little short here. Ladies Are Forever was last seen in the Cleves Stakes here at Lingfield around a month ago when being inconvenienced by a very wide draw. Today she is drawn in stall number four which is ideal for her running style and the drop down to five furlongs should be in her favour with Cheek Pieces tried once more. Ladies Are Forever to make it back to back wins in the Hever Stakes with Robert Tart booked in the saddle. (7/2)
3:15 Lingfield - Ertijaal
Ertijaal is a bit unlucky and if he took any other passage as a two year old he would be unbeaten as in his maiden he bumped into Toormore who beat him by a neck. Unlike Ladies Are Forever, the draw has done him no favours whatsoever, but he broke well last time out and over seven furlongs it isn't the worst thing that could happen. Ertijaal is around a 20/1 shot for the 2000 Guineas later this year, and if he is to justify that price tag then he should at least be going close here and is taken to land the spoils today. (6/4)
3:30 Newbury - Roalco De Farges
Roalco De Farges has come back from an injury this season and with two runs back he should be race-fit after finishing runner up to Tidal Bay in the Bet365 Gold Cup two seasons ago. On that form he will have stamina in abundance today over this slightly shorter trip although he steps up in trip from last time when third at Ludlow. His jumping was fantastic that day but Richard Johnson seemed hesitant to go for everything until very late on and probably left it too late. The main positive with Roalco De Farges is that he gets Good ground back again with his only course victory coming on a faster surface. Richard Johnson was among the winners yesterday at Newbury and can have another one here after a good week at Cheltenham. (13/2)
4:30 Bangor - Ivy Gate
We have a long wait for today's NAP but hopefully its worth it as Ivy Gate ventures into handicap company for the first time with Maurice Linehan taking a further five pounds off. Ivy Gate could be well ahead of the handicapper as he has been judged for performances on bottomless ground which is less than ideal for him. The ground for today is Good to Soft which will be perfect for his chances and after being declared a non runner a few times he can gain his first hurdles victory. To be fair to him his hurdles efforts to date haven't been bad by any stretch of the imagination and has still beaten some nice horses, but the ground has been against him for a long time. Ivy Gate to land today's NAP and what should be a double on the card for Maurice Linehan. (11/2)
Trixie - Ladies Are Forever, Ertijaal and Ivy Gate
NAP - Ivy Gate
Nb - Ladies Are Forever
Have a good weekend everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
We race today at Newbury, Bangor and Stratford over jumps in England with Kelso staging a decent National Hunt card across the border in Scotland. The only other meeting over jumps is in Ireland as Gowran Park stage a seven race card where the star attraction is Vicky De L'Oasis. Lingfield stage the best card in the country on the all weather however as they stage the Winter Derby in which Grandeur is a warm order and should take all the beating.
Ontheotherhoof is back after a short time off for Cheltenham week but we hope you enjoyed our preview videos leading up to the Festival. Today we preview the Channel 4 races today and any other races that get requested, joining me today is @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121, enjoy the show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqw7jit4F_Y
Now onto today's selections!
2:40 Lingfield - Ladies Are Forever
We start today off at Lingfield with last year's winner Ladies Are Forever who looks to emulate Arganil who won this race back to back in 2009 and 2010. There are a few main contenders in the race that will be having their first runs of the season, including Stepper Point and Kingsgate Choice so there is a chance they will be found a little short here. Ladies Are Forever was last seen in the Cleves Stakes here at Lingfield around a month ago when being inconvenienced by a very wide draw. Today she is drawn in stall number four which is ideal for her running style and the drop down to five furlongs should be in her favour with Cheek Pieces tried once more. Ladies Are Forever to make it back to back wins in the Hever Stakes with Robert Tart booked in the saddle. (7/2)
3:15 Lingfield - Ertijaal
Ertijaal is a bit unlucky and if he took any other passage as a two year old he would be unbeaten as in his maiden he bumped into Toormore who beat him by a neck. Unlike Ladies Are Forever, the draw has done him no favours whatsoever, but he broke well last time out and over seven furlongs it isn't the worst thing that could happen. Ertijaal is around a 20/1 shot for the 2000 Guineas later this year, and if he is to justify that price tag then he should at least be going close here and is taken to land the spoils today. (6/4)
3:30 Newbury - Roalco De Farges
Roalco De Farges has come back from an injury this season and with two runs back he should be race-fit after finishing runner up to Tidal Bay in the Bet365 Gold Cup two seasons ago. On that form he will have stamina in abundance today over this slightly shorter trip although he steps up in trip from last time when third at Ludlow. His jumping was fantastic that day but Richard Johnson seemed hesitant to go for everything until very late on and probably left it too late. The main positive with Roalco De Farges is that he gets Good ground back again with his only course victory coming on a faster surface. Richard Johnson was among the winners yesterday at Newbury and can have another one here after a good week at Cheltenham. (13/2)
4:30 Bangor - Ivy Gate
We have a long wait for today's NAP but hopefully its worth it as Ivy Gate ventures into handicap company for the first time with Maurice Linehan taking a further five pounds off. Ivy Gate could be well ahead of the handicapper as he has been judged for performances on bottomless ground which is less than ideal for him. The ground for today is Good to Soft which will be perfect for his chances and after being declared a non runner a few times he can gain his first hurdles victory. To be fair to him his hurdles efforts to date haven't been bad by any stretch of the imagination and has still beaten some nice horses, but the ground has been against him for a long time. Ivy Gate to land today's NAP and what should be a double on the card for Maurice Linehan. (11/2)
Trixie - Ladies Are Forever, Ertijaal and Ivy Gate
NAP - Ivy Gate
Nb - Ladies Are Forever
Have a good weekend everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
Tuesday 18 March 2014
Cheltenham Forgiveness List
What is the Cheltenham forgiveness list you ask? Simple! A horse will make it onto the forgiveness list for not performing to his or her full potential at Cheltenham and is one that can be followed in the next few runs. Just picture your money lost at Cheltenham like an ex girlfriend that you are trying to get back, you may want it on occasions but it doesn't matter in the long run. Now before we get too distracted and start a support group for lonely males, lets crack on with horse number one on the forgiveness list.
The New One
More of an obvious one to start the list off with The New One who was desperately unlucky in the Champion Hurdle, when hampered by the tragic and fatal fall of Our Conor. In that incident he lost five to six lengths and when that happens in any Championship race at Cheltenham, it's hard to come back from.
The argument against him is that he was outpaced coming down the hill towards three out and then stayed on up the hill. A different and my personal view is that he exerted a lot of energy getting back into the race and his jumping suffered as a result of the incident at the third flight. Sam Twiston-Davies wasn't asking his mount for a great deal of effort coming down the hill and it could just be that he was filling his lungs before flying home up the hill.
The New One is the first entry on the forgiveness list and should go close in the Aintree Hurdle whereas another crack at the Champion Hurdle isn't off the cards.
Alaivan
Jonjo O'Neill saddled Alaivan in the County Hurdle who ran well for a long way before being outpaced turning for home and not for the first time in the race. As usual the pace was a rapid one which looked to catch him out in the jumping department as he was far from fluent at a few hurdles in first time Cheek Pieces.
By the time they were preparing to turn back towards the stands you got the feeling and Maurice Linehan was far from happy with him and started pushing along his mount. He was still prominent approaching two from home but was hard off the bridle just after, and found himself struggling to go with the likes of Lac Fontana and Montbazon who both placed. Even approaching the last he was no more than five lengths off the lead but a poor jump cost him further lengths and he kept on at the same pace.
A trip to Aintree may not be completely off the cards but he will definitely appreciate a step up to two and a half miles after staying on in taking style in the Betfair hurdle previously.
Violet Dancer
Gary and Jamie Moore were all over the front pages after Sire De Grugy was victorious in the Champion Chase on Wednesday, and later that day had a good chance in the Fred Winter. Violet Dancer was responsible for that chance and with all things considered he ran a promising race in a competitive handicap. This year's Fred Winter was particularly messy with mistakes and a few incidents, none of them managed to avoid Violet Dancer's passage, all of this wasn't helped by him being fiercely keen early on in the race.
The first time he was hampered came at the second hurdle when Astre De La Cour came down hindering the whole field, but especially Violet Dancer who was forced very wide after bumping. Approaching three from home when the race was heating up, he found himself short of room and had to get tight to one at a bad time of the contest, but it was two from home that put the nail in the coffin.
The fall of Clarcam forced more people out wide and with Raven's Tower coming across him it cost him a lot of momentum and his chance. Violet Dancer is definitely one to watch next season and will definitely make a chaser.
Sgt Reckless
Sgt Reckless was an eye catcher for many in the Supreme after coming from an impossible position to finish fourth behind the mightily impressive Vautour.
He was widely fancied last year in the Champion Bumper before being outstayed up the Cheltenham hill but it was the opposite case this year. He has gone a bit under the radar this season but has taken the notable scalp of West Wizard at Kempton before a good third on bad ground at Kempton once again. His run in the Supreme was an interesting one as he was way out the back for the whole race and no less than 25 lengths down jumping two out. You could go about that run in two ways, either say he needs further and draw the line at saying he was outpaced or say he isn't a Cheltenham horse. It could be a little bit of both but I would argue more the latter as he hasn't looked the most straightforward ride on either visit to the course.
Sgt Reckless put in a massive effort to grab fourth at the line and will surely be suited more by the demands of Aintree, and is one horse who could just need a flat track and good ground.
Baily Green
The last two horses on the forgiveness list probably ran in the wrong race which is easy to say in hindsight, but that doesn't apply to Baily Green who ran in the Champion Chase.
This season Baily Green had run four times back in Ireland before Cheltenham came around when shaping well without success. When stepped up to two and a half miles back home he pushed Sizing Europe to a length and a quarter before being second to Texas Jack in a race he arguably should have won. He has only ran over a shorter distance once this season when tackling fences and that outing resulted in a thirty and a quarter lengths pounding from Benefficient. But with the defection of Sprinter Sacre, connections decided to tackle the bigger race which you cant blame them for however you cant campaign a horse for one race and then change plans late on. The Champion Chase resulted in Baily Green being taken off his feet throughout and his jumping suffered, eventually falling four out.
For the future Baily Green definitely looks a stayer in the making and for now two and a half miles should suit but it would be no surprise were he to stay three miles, But onto our last entry on the list.
Wonderful Charm
The final entry comes courtesy of former Champion Trainer, Paul Nicholls who saddled the promising Wonderful Charm in the JLT Novices Chase.
You cant blame connections for getting this race wrong as he has been campaigned over two and a half miles on every chase start so far and holding his own in top races. Before last week the only horse who had beat him over fences was Oscar Whisky and even that was a race he arguably should have won. There isn't much else left to say about him other than he was probably travelling a bit too fast for his jumping to be fluent and as a result that suffered. The only thing that hindered him that was out of his control was when Djakadam came down four out, but in truth he wasn't hampered too badly but it checked his momentum slightly at a bad time. He ended off the race by flying up the hill and almost catching Felix Yonger for fourth who may not have stayed the trip.
The future will surely be over further for Wonderful Charm and it would seem that a win isn't too far away for him as he does look a natural over fences.
So that rounds off the forgiveness list, if I have missed any horses that you like then let me know, the same applies if you disagree with any of the entrants to the list. Follow me on twitter @lukeelder13 and join the debate!
The New One
More of an obvious one to start the list off with The New One who was desperately unlucky in the Champion Hurdle, when hampered by the tragic and fatal fall of Our Conor. In that incident he lost five to six lengths and when that happens in any Championship race at Cheltenham, it's hard to come back from.
The argument against him is that he was outpaced coming down the hill towards three out and then stayed on up the hill. A different and my personal view is that he exerted a lot of energy getting back into the race and his jumping suffered as a result of the incident at the third flight. Sam Twiston-Davies wasn't asking his mount for a great deal of effort coming down the hill and it could just be that he was filling his lungs before flying home up the hill.
The New One is the first entry on the forgiveness list and should go close in the Aintree Hurdle whereas another crack at the Champion Hurdle isn't off the cards.
Alaivan
Jonjo O'Neill saddled Alaivan in the County Hurdle who ran well for a long way before being outpaced turning for home and not for the first time in the race. As usual the pace was a rapid one which looked to catch him out in the jumping department as he was far from fluent at a few hurdles in first time Cheek Pieces.
By the time they were preparing to turn back towards the stands you got the feeling and Maurice Linehan was far from happy with him and started pushing along his mount. He was still prominent approaching two from home but was hard off the bridle just after, and found himself struggling to go with the likes of Lac Fontana and Montbazon who both placed. Even approaching the last he was no more than five lengths off the lead but a poor jump cost him further lengths and he kept on at the same pace.
A trip to Aintree may not be completely off the cards but he will definitely appreciate a step up to two and a half miles after staying on in taking style in the Betfair hurdle previously.
Violet Dancer
Gary and Jamie Moore were all over the front pages after Sire De Grugy was victorious in the Champion Chase on Wednesday, and later that day had a good chance in the Fred Winter. Violet Dancer was responsible for that chance and with all things considered he ran a promising race in a competitive handicap. This year's Fred Winter was particularly messy with mistakes and a few incidents, none of them managed to avoid Violet Dancer's passage, all of this wasn't helped by him being fiercely keen early on in the race.
The first time he was hampered came at the second hurdle when Astre De La Cour came down hindering the whole field, but especially Violet Dancer who was forced very wide after bumping. Approaching three from home when the race was heating up, he found himself short of room and had to get tight to one at a bad time of the contest, but it was two from home that put the nail in the coffin.
The fall of Clarcam forced more people out wide and with Raven's Tower coming across him it cost him a lot of momentum and his chance. Violet Dancer is definitely one to watch next season and will definitely make a chaser.
Sgt Reckless
Sgt Reckless was an eye catcher for many in the Supreme after coming from an impossible position to finish fourth behind the mightily impressive Vautour.
He was widely fancied last year in the Champion Bumper before being outstayed up the Cheltenham hill but it was the opposite case this year. He has gone a bit under the radar this season but has taken the notable scalp of West Wizard at Kempton before a good third on bad ground at Kempton once again. His run in the Supreme was an interesting one as he was way out the back for the whole race and no less than 25 lengths down jumping two out. You could go about that run in two ways, either say he needs further and draw the line at saying he was outpaced or say he isn't a Cheltenham horse. It could be a little bit of both but I would argue more the latter as he hasn't looked the most straightforward ride on either visit to the course.
Sgt Reckless put in a massive effort to grab fourth at the line and will surely be suited more by the demands of Aintree, and is one horse who could just need a flat track and good ground.
Baily Green
The last two horses on the forgiveness list probably ran in the wrong race which is easy to say in hindsight, but that doesn't apply to Baily Green who ran in the Champion Chase.
This season Baily Green had run four times back in Ireland before Cheltenham came around when shaping well without success. When stepped up to two and a half miles back home he pushed Sizing Europe to a length and a quarter before being second to Texas Jack in a race he arguably should have won. He has only ran over a shorter distance once this season when tackling fences and that outing resulted in a thirty and a quarter lengths pounding from Benefficient. But with the defection of Sprinter Sacre, connections decided to tackle the bigger race which you cant blame them for however you cant campaign a horse for one race and then change plans late on. The Champion Chase resulted in Baily Green being taken off his feet throughout and his jumping suffered, eventually falling four out.
For the future Baily Green definitely looks a stayer in the making and for now two and a half miles should suit but it would be no surprise were he to stay three miles, But onto our last entry on the list.
Wonderful Charm
The final entry comes courtesy of former Champion Trainer, Paul Nicholls who saddled the promising Wonderful Charm in the JLT Novices Chase.
You cant blame connections for getting this race wrong as he has been campaigned over two and a half miles on every chase start so far and holding his own in top races. Before last week the only horse who had beat him over fences was Oscar Whisky and even that was a race he arguably should have won. There isn't much else left to say about him other than he was probably travelling a bit too fast for his jumping to be fluent and as a result that suffered. The only thing that hindered him that was out of his control was when Djakadam came down four out, but in truth he wasn't hampered too badly but it checked his momentum slightly at a bad time. He ended off the race by flying up the hill and almost catching Felix Yonger for fourth who may not have stayed the trip.
The future will surely be over further for Wonderful Charm and it would seem that a win isn't too far away for him as he does look a natural over fences.
So that rounds off the forgiveness list, if I have missed any horses that you like then let me know, the same applies if you disagree with any of the entrants to the list. Follow me on twitter @lukeelder13 and join the debate!
Thursday 13 March 2014
Cheltenham Festival Day Four
So here we are, the final day of the 2014 Cheltenham Festival and another day has gone by where we say goodbye to another one of our heroes. The mighty Big Buck's has had time called on his racing career after he could do no better than fifth today and failed to show his old sparkle. His career began back on the 2nd February in 2007 and 25 races later as an eleven year old he will now take on a different career after touching so many hearts along the years.
But after a below standard day yesterday we shall move onto the final day of the Cheltenham Festival and hope for a few winners to go out on.
JCB Triumph Hurdle - Calipto
This year's Triumph Hurdle is a little light on numbers but after the absence of Le Rocher was confirmed earlier this week, it's Calipto's race to lose. Paul Nicholls has had a few disappointments this week and is yet to have a winner, however not all his runners have ran below par. Calipto has been favourite for the race for some time now after two convincing displays at Newbury when travelling strongly before beating strong fields each time. The only argument against him is that he doesn't do a great deal in front which is true but with 15 rivals to pass he shouldn't hit the front too early. He has proved himself on faster ground which is no problem today and already looks a chaser but also looks all class which will help him today. Calipto to land today's opener and provide Paul Nicholls with his first winner of the week. (4/1)
Vincent O'Brien County Handicap Hurdle - Alaivan
Since joining the yard of Jonjo O'Neill Alaivan has failed to sparkle but has shown that ability is still there on softer ground under a declining mark. He was an eye catching sixth last time in the Betfair Hurdle when staying on from an unpromising position and the good ground could help his cause. The most interesting thing about him is that he will run in cheek pieces for the first time today and is eight pounds below his last winning mark. Maurice Linehan was out of luck today in two rides but takes a valuable five pounds off the bottom weight and he can claim his first festival success. (14/1)
Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle - Blakemount
Briar Hill looks the most likely winner of this race but is a shocking price now so a chance is taken with the improving and consistent Blakemount. There have been good reports of his work at home circulating and he lost nothing in defeat to Urban Hymn when defeated by a short head on soft ground. Before then he had pushed Ballyalton, who was runner up in Wednesday's opener, to three and three quarter lengths on good ground. That currently looks the strongest of his form and has since successfully stepped up in trip proving his stamina and showing he is no slouch in a battle. Blakemount to outrun his odds and provide Sue Smith with a deserving festival winner. (25/1)
Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup - Bobs Worth
Now one that you may know a bit more about with last year's Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth, as he looks to go back to back in the race. He started off his season in the Betfair Chase with his only disappointing run in his career when beaten a long way back in sixth by Cue Card. Since that below par seasonal debut he has since corrected the record when winning in a brilliant fashion at Leopardstown when landing the Lexus. First Lieutenant was behind him that day as he has been on many occasions but the Champion showed he has lost none of his ability and should land back to back Gold Cup's today. (2/1)
CGA Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup - On The Fringe
It's the turn of the Hunter Chasers now and with the defection of dual winner Salsify, On The Fringe is installed as a worthy favourite. He was fourth in this event back in 2011 before being a non runner when fancied just a year later on, but he can set that record straight today. Nina Carberry partnered him at Down Royal when victorious on his return from a break before finding Tammys Hill too good last time. The return to better ground should see him reverse that form and at this level he is the one to beat. (4/1)
Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle - Leo Luna
Connections were hoping to get Leo Luna into the Coral Cup but he just failed to make the cut after a much better performance at Ascot last time out. He was just three lengths behind Ptit Zig on handicap debut over two miles which has since proved to be too short as his last visit here showed. That run is easily forgiven, especially as a step up in trip resulted in a good third at Ascot on ground that was probably against him. It will be interesting to see him in the market beforehand, but back on good ground Leo Luna can give Gary Moore another festival winner but with Josh in the saddle this time. (16/1)
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup - Next Sensation
The final race of the Festival is usually a madly run two miles which is exactly what Next Sensation will relish and he will be up there setting the pace. I put him up as one of the handicappers to follow at Cheltenham a while back and has since been backed into favouritism with Ted Veale running in the Arkle. He was simply awesome last time out at Doncaster when making all and leaving a blemish on his CV when unseating Tom Scudamore at Newbury. In truth he was unlucky that day as he couldn't have jumped better before clipping the top of one and losing his rider, but he was foot perfect last time out. If he were to taste victory today he will need to defy a nine pound rise which should be no problem whatsoever and Next Sensation is taken to land the finale. (ante post 10/1)
NAP - Next Sensation
Nb - Alaivan
Good Luck today guys and as always, Happy Punting!
But after a below standard day yesterday we shall move onto the final day of the Cheltenham Festival and hope for a few winners to go out on.
JCB Triumph Hurdle - Calipto
This year's Triumph Hurdle is a little light on numbers but after the absence of Le Rocher was confirmed earlier this week, it's Calipto's race to lose. Paul Nicholls has had a few disappointments this week and is yet to have a winner, however not all his runners have ran below par. Calipto has been favourite for the race for some time now after two convincing displays at Newbury when travelling strongly before beating strong fields each time. The only argument against him is that he doesn't do a great deal in front which is true but with 15 rivals to pass he shouldn't hit the front too early. He has proved himself on faster ground which is no problem today and already looks a chaser but also looks all class which will help him today. Calipto to land today's opener and provide Paul Nicholls with his first winner of the week. (4/1)
Vincent O'Brien County Handicap Hurdle - Alaivan
Since joining the yard of Jonjo O'Neill Alaivan has failed to sparkle but has shown that ability is still there on softer ground under a declining mark. He was an eye catching sixth last time in the Betfair Hurdle when staying on from an unpromising position and the good ground could help his cause. The most interesting thing about him is that he will run in cheek pieces for the first time today and is eight pounds below his last winning mark. Maurice Linehan was out of luck today in two rides but takes a valuable five pounds off the bottom weight and he can claim his first festival success. (14/1)
Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle - Blakemount
Briar Hill looks the most likely winner of this race but is a shocking price now so a chance is taken with the improving and consistent Blakemount. There have been good reports of his work at home circulating and he lost nothing in defeat to Urban Hymn when defeated by a short head on soft ground. Before then he had pushed Ballyalton, who was runner up in Wednesday's opener, to three and three quarter lengths on good ground. That currently looks the strongest of his form and has since successfully stepped up in trip proving his stamina and showing he is no slouch in a battle. Blakemount to outrun his odds and provide Sue Smith with a deserving festival winner. (25/1)
Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup - Bobs Worth
Now one that you may know a bit more about with last year's Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth, as he looks to go back to back in the race. He started off his season in the Betfair Chase with his only disappointing run in his career when beaten a long way back in sixth by Cue Card. Since that below par seasonal debut he has since corrected the record when winning in a brilliant fashion at Leopardstown when landing the Lexus. First Lieutenant was behind him that day as he has been on many occasions but the Champion showed he has lost none of his ability and should land back to back Gold Cup's today. (2/1)
CGA Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup - On The Fringe
It's the turn of the Hunter Chasers now and with the defection of dual winner Salsify, On The Fringe is installed as a worthy favourite. He was fourth in this event back in 2011 before being a non runner when fancied just a year later on, but he can set that record straight today. Nina Carberry partnered him at Down Royal when victorious on his return from a break before finding Tammys Hill too good last time. The return to better ground should see him reverse that form and at this level he is the one to beat. (4/1)
Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle - Leo Luna
Connections were hoping to get Leo Luna into the Coral Cup but he just failed to make the cut after a much better performance at Ascot last time out. He was just three lengths behind Ptit Zig on handicap debut over two miles which has since proved to be too short as his last visit here showed. That run is easily forgiven, especially as a step up in trip resulted in a good third at Ascot on ground that was probably against him. It will be interesting to see him in the market beforehand, but back on good ground Leo Luna can give Gary Moore another festival winner but with Josh in the saddle this time. (16/1)
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup - Next Sensation
The final race of the Festival is usually a madly run two miles which is exactly what Next Sensation will relish and he will be up there setting the pace. I put him up as one of the handicappers to follow at Cheltenham a while back and has since been backed into favouritism with Ted Veale running in the Arkle. He was simply awesome last time out at Doncaster when making all and leaving a blemish on his CV when unseating Tom Scudamore at Newbury. In truth he was unlucky that day as he couldn't have jumped better before clipping the top of one and losing his rider, but he was foot perfect last time out. If he were to taste victory today he will need to defy a nine pound rise which should be no problem whatsoever and Next Sensation is taken to land the finale. (ante post 10/1)
NAP - Next Sensation
Nb - Alaivan
Good Luck today guys and as always, Happy Punting!
Wednesday 12 March 2014
Cheltenham Festival Day Three
Good Morning/Evening to you all, you join me after a great day of racing and a fantastic day for the blog as we saddled three winners and a big priced placed horse. But the stars of the day were undoubtedly Jamie and Gary Moore who finally won a festival race with Sire De Grugy who was a brilliant winner of the Champion Chase.
However I am really short on time as we are celebrating a friends birthday this evening so without further ado, lets get onto today's selections.
JLT Novices' Chase - Wonderful Charm
Wonderful Charm had a tall reputation over hurdles and has finally come right when switched to fences and looks somewhat a natural unlike others in this field. I was amazed to see him at the same price as Oscar Whisky who in the form book he has well held over today's trip. Daryl Jacob may have not given him the best ride that day after travelling so well but wasn't able to cope with his rival's speed on the day. The ground today will be near perfect for him and a strong pace will help him out no end as he has looked to get further than this and was in last year's World Hurdle. Wonderful Charm to land the JLT on his way to bigger things... Just like we said about Faugheen and he also carries the tag of today's NAP.
Pertemps Network Final - Josies Orders
Jonjo O'Neill's second string just sneaks in the bottom of the weights here after improving twenty two pounds so far this season. But he has shown no rise of stopping this improvement and Maurice Linehan is used for the first time this Festival taking off a valuable five pounds. His improvement began when first fitted with blinkers and since then he is two from two winning easily both times with Linehan in the saddle last time. The return to better ground could bring around more improvement and despite a few obvious main rivals, the race doesn't look the hottest renewal. Josies Orders to continue his rapid improvement and defy a 14 pound rise in the weights.
Ryanair Chase - Hunt Ball
This season's Ryanair looks far from vintage renewal and with a horse like Dynaste as favourite a chance is taken on Hunt Ball to return to form. A lot of people say Hunt Ball isn't the force of old after his brief spell in American as a result of making the headlines for the wrong reasons. He failed to sparkle in three outings across the pond but for me there is a simple explanation for that after he showed he hasn't lost any ability last time out. American's dont know how to ride in Jumps races and ill explain what I mean by that. In this country (which is what Hunt Ball is used to) the horses go a true gallop throughout and its a stamina test no matter what distance. In America they crawl until around three or four furlongs out then sprint at the end which caught Hunt Ball flat footed each time. For that reason Hunt Ball is taken to return to form with a bang today over a trip that is near perfect for him at a ludicrous price.
Ladbrokes World Hurdle - Big Buck's
Big Buck's needs no introduction here as a four time winner of the race, although he does have a new challenge this year in the form of Annie Power. He returned from injury in a disappointing manner last time for many, however there were more positives than negatives for me. Firstly he showed the sparkle is still there and has lost very little ability if any at all after getting tired late on after a long break and with a jockey who is unfamiliar with the horse. Sam Twiston-Davies will have learned a lot that day and the better ground is a big bonus for him as well as having a few more front runners to aim at. The question mark hanging over Annie Power is simple, does she stay? Big Buck's we know will stay all day when fully fit and with Celestial Halo setting a good gallop out on front the mare will be fully found out today. Big Buck's to return as King of the staying hurdle division.
Byrne Group Plate - Johns Spirit
I have looked over this race time and time again and the one I cant get away from is the Paddypower Gold Cup winner, Johns Spirit. Many people will argue that the handicapper is in control of him now after finishing fifth to Double Ross when last seen back in December, but that was his third big run in just under two months. Since then he has been given a break and will turn up here absolutely spot on with Richie McLernon on board who knows him so well. The addition of Champion Court saves him from the welter burden of top weight and he gets away with a nice weight of 11-3 which is more than competitive for him. Looking back at his last run fills you with confidence as it shows it was probably just one run too many in such a short period of time, but he does have to reverse form with Colour Squadron. Nonetheless, Johns Spirit is taken to land another big Cheltenham handicap after a well earned break.
Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase - Indian Castle
Indian Castle appears to be the name on everyone's lips this season and his price reflects that unfortunately, but a winner is a winner of course. Last season it was Super Duty who was strongly fancied by the same connections but Indian Castle can go one better this time around. The jockey booking is a huge one in these amateur riders events as there are few better than Derek O'Connor and he will be hungry to avenge last years narrow defeat. There are few that jump off the page here and after his big handicap win last time out over a shorter distance back here at Cheltenham Indian Castle can handle a five pound rise. One last thing is that his form with Many Clouds and Pinerolo from Wetherby looks particularly strong and we may not have seen the best of him yet. Indian Castle to set the record straight for connections this year.
NAP - Wonderful Charm
Nb - Johns Spirit
Have a great day everyone and as always, happy punting!!
However I am really short on time as we are celebrating a friends birthday this evening so without further ado, lets get onto today's selections.
JLT Novices' Chase - Wonderful Charm
Wonderful Charm had a tall reputation over hurdles and has finally come right when switched to fences and looks somewhat a natural unlike others in this field. I was amazed to see him at the same price as Oscar Whisky who in the form book he has well held over today's trip. Daryl Jacob may have not given him the best ride that day after travelling so well but wasn't able to cope with his rival's speed on the day. The ground today will be near perfect for him and a strong pace will help him out no end as he has looked to get further than this and was in last year's World Hurdle. Wonderful Charm to land the JLT on his way to bigger things... Just like we said about Faugheen and he also carries the tag of today's NAP.
Pertemps Network Final - Josies Orders
Jonjo O'Neill's second string just sneaks in the bottom of the weights here after improving twenty two pounds so far this season. But he has shown no rise of stopping this improvement and Maurice Linehan is used for the first time this Festival taking off a valuable five pounds. His improvement began when first fitted with blinkers and since then he is two from two winning easily both times with Linehan in the saddle last time. The return to better ground could bring around more improvement and despite a few obvious main rivals, the race doesn't look the hottest renewal. Josies Orders to continue his rapid improvement and defy a 14 pound rise in the weights.
Ryanair Chase - Hunt Ball
This season's Ryanair looks far from vintage renewal and with a horse like Dynaste as favourite a chance is taken on Hunt Ball to return to form. A lot of people say Hunt Ball isn't the force of old after his brief spell in American as a result of making the headlines for the wrong reasons. He failed to sparkle in three outings across the pond but for me there is a simple explanation for that after he showed he hasn't lost any ability last time out. American's dont know how to ride in Jumps races and ill explain what I mean by that. In this country (which is what Hunt Ball is used to) the horses go a true gallop throughout and its a stamina test no matter what distance. In America they crawl until around three or four furlongs out then sprint at the end which caught Hunt Ball flat footed each time. For that reason Hunt Ball is taken to return to form with a bang today over a trip that is near perfect for him at a ludicrous price.
Ladbrokes World Hurdle - Big Buck's
Big Buck's needs no introduction here as a four time winner of the race, although he does have a new challenge this year in the form of Annie Power. He returned from injury in a disappointing manner last time for many, however there were more positives than negatives for me. Firstly he showed the sparkle is still there and has lost very little ability if any at all after getting tired late on after a long break and with a jockey who is unfamiliar with the horse. Sam Twiston-Davies will have learned a lot that day and the better ground is a big bonus for him as well as having a few more front runners to aim at. The question mark hanging over Annie Power is simple, does she stay? Big Buck's we know will stay all day when fully fit and with Celestial Halo setting a good gallop out on front the mare will be fully found out today. Big Buck's to return as King of the staying hurdle division.
Byrne Group Plate - Johns Spirit
I have looked over this race time and time again and the one I cant get away from is the Paddypower Gold Cup winner, Johns Spirit. Many people will argue that the handicapper is in control of him now after finishing fifth to Double Ross when last seen back in December, but that was his third big run in just under two months. Since then he has been given a break and will turn up here absolutely spot on with Richie McLernon on board who knows him so well. The addition of Champion Court saves him from the welter burden of top weight and he gets away with a nice weight of 11-3 which is more than competitive for him. Looking back at his last run fills you with confidence as it shows it was probably just one run too many in such a short period of time, but he does have to reverse form with Colour Squadron. Nonetheless, Johns Spirit is taken to land another big Cheltenham handicap after a well earned break.
Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase - Indian Castle
Indian Castle appears to be the name on everyone's lips this season and his price reflects that unfortunately, but a winner is a winner of course. Last season it was Super Duty who was strongly fancied by the same connections but Indian Castle can go one better this time around. The jockey booking is a huge one in these amateur riders events as there are few better than Derek O'Connor and he will be hungry to avenge last years narrow defeat. There are few that jump off the page here and after his big handicap win last time out over a shorter distance back here at Cheltenham Indian Castle can handle a five pound rise. One last thing is that his form with Many Clouds and Pinerolo from Wetherby looks particularly strong and we may not have seen the best of him yet. Indian Castle to set the record straight for connections this year.
NAP - Wonderful Charm
Nb - Johns Spirit
Have a great day everyone and as always, happy punting!!
Tuesday 11 March 2014
Cheltenham Festival Day Two
Good Evening/Morning all, yesterday wasn't the best day for the blog but more importantly for racing as we lost the exciting young Our Conor after a fall in the Champion Hurdle. What was meant to be the best race of the race turned out to be one filled with tragedy when the news broke just after the race. But we move forward with heavy hearts and lumps in our throat as we say our last goodbye's to Our Conor.
Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle - Faugheen
Faugheen was widely regarded as Willie Mullins' banker of the meeting by a lot of Irish punters and after Vautour was so impressive yesterday in the Supreme is taken to make it a double. His jumping has never been the best but in truth he has never been forced to race at a break neck pace which he will surely face today. Everytime Faugheen has been asked to quicken has resulted in his jumping improving vastly so it is taken that it wont be a problem today. Each time he has graced the track he has been fantastic and has never been off the bridle including when beating Supreme Hurdle runner up, Josses Hill by 22 lengths in a bumper. He is unbeaten in three over hurdles however and is taken to stretch that to four from four and continue his rise to the top. (5/2)
RSA Chase - Annacotty
Many of you already know that I hold Annacotty in high regard and since the application of blinkers he has been a revelation. His win in the Grade One Feltham at Kempton was his first run in headgear which worked perfectly as he made all to beat a decent field including Green Flag who placed yesterday at Cheltenham. Also boosting his form yesterday was Present View who won the finale for Brendan Powell and Jamie Snowden, after seeing the rear of Annacotty in a handicap at Kempton once more. Most recently we saw Annacotty bravely go down as top weight in a Cheltenham Handicap on Trials day back in January, showing he handles the course perfectly fine. One more added bonus is that with Corrin Wood and Gevrey Chambertin trying different tactics tomorrow he should get it all his own way out in front. Annacotty to gallop his rivals into submission. (25/1)
Coral Cup - Get Me Out Of Here
Yesterday's handicappers to follow didn't particularly set the world alight but we try once more with Get Me Out Of Here. He was given an easy time of things in the Greatwood after losing his chance yet stayed on after being outpaced turning for home. He was dropped a pound for that effort which we wont be complaining about and his current price tag looks too big for a once top class horse. This time last year he was contesting the World Hurdle but stamina gave out and in the end he was pulled up, but as a result his handicap mark is now ten pounds lower and this looks to be his level nowadays. One important thing that is in his favour is that the ground is on the fast side after today which he will love and trainer Jonjo O'Neill was already amongst the winners with Holywell. Get Me Out Of Here to finally get his Festival win. (ante post 33/1)
Betvictor Queen Mother Champion Chase - Sire De Grugy
Sire De Grugy has been fantastic over two miles this year in the absence of Sprinter Sacre, especially last time at Ascot when very impressive. The one doubt over him is that he doesn't handle the course at Cheltenham which im not in total agreeance with as today he should have more to aim at in front. He attempted to give Kid Cassidy 10 pounds that day so on the formline he shouldn't be able to come home in front once more. There have been glowing reports from the Moore yard and the ground wont inconvenience him at all, however softer ground would be preferred. Sire De Grugy to lose his Cheltenham maiden tag and land the Champion Chase for Jamie and Gary Moore. (3/1)
Glenfarclas Handicap Chase - Balthazar King
Philip Hobbs' representative is no stranger to the Cross Country course and the ground has come absolutely perfect for him, however he does have to carry round top weight. Last week his participation hung in the balance with the ground on the softer side, clearly that is now no problem and he returns here as a ten year old in great form. Last year's winner Big Shu is sure to be a danger as are the regulars round here in Any Currency and Uncle Junior, the latter from Ireland's Champion Trainer Willie Mullins. But Balthazar King can take his already impressive Cross Country record to a new level. (7/1)
Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle - Violet Dancer
Hopefully by this point Gary and Jamie Moore will already have one winner on the board with Sire De Grugy and they can double up with Violet Dancer. He impressed me at Sandown when winning a Juvenile Hurdle in good style before running well behind Le Rocher and Kentucky Hyden in a Grade One at Chepstow. He then disappointed last time at Huntingdon when attempting to give weight away all round but the ground was against him that day and better ground will help him big time. One thing Violet Dancer doesn't lack is size and you wouldn't guess he is a four year old just by looking at him as he already looks a chasing type, which is where his future lies. But off a workable mark of 130 he can land this year's Fred Winter. (25/1)
Weatherbys Champion Bumper - Black Hercules and Coyaba
We go into the last double handed with Black Hercules for the same connections of last year's winner albeit now a second string to Shaneshill. The latter mentioned hasn't been seen for 102 days which can only be seen as a negative but looks the speedier type, whereas Black Hercules already looks a stayer. The ground could cause him to be outpaced but he won impressively on debut when tackling Good to Yielding so it shouldn't be too much of a worry. Paddy Mullins bought the horse from a Point to Point before selling him to Graham Wylie who still owns him to this date and will run in them colours today. The second selection and one at a more spectacular price is Coyaba who has been unfairly treated by bookmakers after his run on New Year's Day. He is yet to run over this distance but looks a stayer in the making so stamina wont be a problem for him and a four year old allowance can only boost his chances. Martin Keighley's Gelding had won two bumpers in very smart style before getting stuck in the mud at Cheltenham when racing shouldn't really have gone ahead. That run is forgiven and an each way price is taken by us. (8/1 and 66/1)
NAP - Faugheen
Nb - Annacotty
Good luck and as always, Happy Punting!
 |
| Our Conor in last year's Triumph Hurdle Romp |
Faugheen was widely regarded as Willie Mullins' banker of the meeting by a lot of Irish punters and after Vautour was so impressive yesterday in the Supreme is taken to make it a double. His jumping has never been the best but in truth he has never been forced to race at a break neck pace which he will surely face today. Everytime Faugheen has been asked to quicken has resulted in his jumping improving vastly so it is taken that it wont be a problem today. Each time he has graced the track he has been fantastic and has never been off the bridle including when beating Supreme Hurdle runner up, Josses Hill by 22 lengths in a bumper. He is unbeaten in three over hurdles however and is taken to stretch that to four from four and continue his rise to the top. (5/2)
RSA Chase - Annacotty
Many of you already know that I hold Annacotty in high regard and since the application of blinkers he has been a revelation. His win in the Grade One Feltham at Kempton was his first run in headgear which worked perfectly as he made all to beat a decent field including Green Flag who placed yesterday at Cheltenham. Also boosting his form yesterday was Present View who won the finale for Brendan Powell and Jamie Snowden, after seeing the rear of Annacotty in a handicap at Kempton once more. Most recently we saw Annacotty bravely go down as top weight in a Cheltenham Handicap on Trials day back in January, showing he handles the course perfectly fine. One more added bonus is that with Corrin Wood and Gevrey Chambertin trying different tactics tomorrow he should get it all his own way out in front. Annacotty to gallop his rivals into submission. (25/1)
Coral Cup - Get Me Out Of Here
Yesterday's handicappers to follow didn't particularly set the world alight but we try once more with Get Me Out Of Here. He was given an easy time of things in the Greatwood after losing his chance yet stayed on after being outpaced turning for home. He was dropped a pound for that effort which we wont be complaining about and his current price tag looks too big for a once top class horse. This time last year he was contesting the World Hurdle but stamina gave out and in the end he was pulled up, but as a result his handicap mark is now ten pounds lower and this looks to be his level nowadays. One important thing that is in his favour is that the ground is on the fast side after today which he will love and trainer Jonjo O'Neill was already amongst the winners with Holywell. Get Me Out Of Here to finally get his Festival win. (ante post 33/1)
Betvictor Queen Mother Champion Chase - Sire De Grugy
Sire De Grugy has been fantastic over two miles this year in the absence of Sprinter Sacre, especially last time at Ascot when very impressive. The one doubt over him is that he doesn't handle the course at Cheltenham which im not in total agreeance with as today he should have more to aim at in front. He attempted to give Kid Cassidy 10 pounds that day so on the formline he shouldn't be able to come home in front once more. There have been glowing reports from the Moore yard and the ground wont inconvenience him at all, however softer ground would be preferred. Sire De Grugy to lose his Cheltenham maiden tag and land the Champion Chase for Jamie and Gary Moore. (3/1)
Glenfarclas Handicap Chase - Balthazar King
Philip Hobbs' representative is no stranger to the Cross Country course and the ground has come absolutely perfect for him, however he does have to carry round top weight. Last week his participation hung in the balance with the ground on the softer side, clearly that is now no problem and he returns here as a ten year old in great form. Last year's winner Big Shu is sure to be a danger as are the regulars round here in Any Currency and Uncle Junior, the latter from Ireland's Champion Trainer Willie Mullins. But Balthazar King can take his already impressive Cross Country record to a new level. (7/1)
Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle - Violet Dancer
Hopefully by this point Gary and Jamie Moore will already have one winner on the board with Sire De Grugy and they can double up with Violet Dancer. He impressed me at Sandown when winning a Juvenile Hurdle in good style before running well behind Le Rocher and Kentucky Hyden in a Grade One at Chepstow. He then disappointed last time at Huntingdon when attempting to give weight away all round but the ground was against him that day and better ground will help him big time. One thing Violet Dancer doesn't lack is size and you wouldn't guess he is a four year old just by looking at him as he already looks a chasing type, which is where his future lies. But off a workable mark of 130 he can land this year's Fred Winter. (25/1)
Weatherbys Champion Bumper - Black Hercules and Coyaba
We go into the last double handed with Black Hercules for the same connections of last year's winner albeit now a second string to Shaneshill. The latter mentioned hasn't been seen for 102 days which can only be seen as a negative but looks the speedier type, whereas Black Hercules already looks a stayer. The ground could cause him to be outpaced but he won impressively on debut when tackling Good to Yielding so it shouldn't be too much of a worry. Paddy Mullins bought the horse from a Point to Point before selling him to Graham Wylie who still owns him to this date and will run in them colours today. The second selection and one at a more spectacular price is Coyaba who has been unfairly treated by bookmakers after his run on New Year's Day. He is yet to run over this distance but looks a stayer in the making so stamina wont be a problem for him and a four year old allowance can only boost his chances. Martin Keighley's Gelding had won two bumpers in very smart style before getting stuck in the mud at Cheltenham when racing shouldn't really have gone ahead. That run is forgiven and an each way price is taken by us. (8/1 and 66/1)
NAP - Faugheen
Nb - Annacotty
Good luck and as always, Happy Punting!
Monday 10 March 2014
Cheltenham Festival - Day One
Good Evening/Morning to you all, I hope you are ready for this!
Today marks the first day of the 2014 Cheltenham Festival, the day when all talk stops and attention is turned to the track. At 1:30 this afternoon thousands of racing fans will cheer in unison as the Cheltenham roar before the Supreme Novices gets us underway for 4 days of heart stopping action. Over the next week we will see history changed, names immortalised along with faces of old and names of new announce their arrival into the world of national Hunt Racing. Join me as we get this show on the road after months of anticipation, ladies and gentlemen, the Cheltenham Festival is here!
Our video with Nick Scholfield previewing the Champion Hurdle and Supreme Novices
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ&list=UUezAefNM6xM_sGDsrGUwjjQ
Now onto the racing! (Apologies for all the ante post prices, they all seemed to want to run on the same day!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ&list=UUezAefNM6xM_sGDsrGUwjjQ
Now onto the racing! (Apologies for all the ante post prices, they all seemed to want to run on the same day!)
SkyBet Supreme Novices Hurdle - Irving
Until a month ago the name of the novice on everyone's lips was that of Vautour after his victory in the Deloitte Hurdle when beating The Tullow Tank. However around a month ago Irving staked his Festival claims when winning the Dovecote Hurdle at Kempton in emphatic style. That has been the case on all of his starts this season albeit in lower company but Irving has shown that he is all class on more than one occasion. He landed the Kennel Gate at Ascot in good fashion when maybe looking more impressive due to Prince Siegfried departing at the last hurdle. Splash Of Ginge who re opposes here today has since gone on the boost that form however when winning the Betfair Hurdle, but he should once again struggle to contend with Irving. Nick Scholfield and Paul Nicholls to get the Festival off to a flying start with Irving. (10/1 ante post)
Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy - Grandouet
This year's Arkle looks wide open with the dual Festival winner Champagne Fever at the head of the market. Preference however is for Nicky Henderson's Grandouet who is still a maiden over fences but was a classy animal over hurdles. On chase debut he unseated Barry Geraghty in an incident that probably wasn't all his fault with Hinterland jumping across him, but it is debatable if he were to win that day. As always he improved for his seasonal debut and ran a fantastic race in the Henry VIII back at Sandown when jumping perfectly bar two out which cost him. Hinterland was once again just in front that day but Grandouet came flying up the hill but just ran out of time and settled for second. The last time we saw him was at Kempton when trailing in a well beat second behind Dodging Bullets who is in today's field once again. However it must be said that nothing was in Grandouet's favour that day with bottomless ground, a severe lack of pace and the stable being under a bit of a cloud. That run is best forgotten and back on Good ground for the first time this season Grandouet is taken to land the Arkle of 2014. (16/1 ante post)
Baylis and Harding Handicap Chase - Alfie Sherrin
Alfie Sherrin was put up as one of my handicappers to follow for Cheltenham but I have to say im surprised he comes here instead of the Kim Muir, that said he is a past winner. Stamina is Alfie Sherrin's forte and has been looked after this year as he has only seen the racecourse once all season when fourth in a big handicap hurdle at Haydock. Last season however he was fourth in the Kim Muir off a two pounds higher mark, but his jumping wasn't great that day and he will need to brush up on that. AP McCoy takes the ride this afternoon as he prefers Alfie Sherrin to top weight Cantlow who is a consistent sort in his own right which can only be seen as a positive. Alfie Sherrin to win this race again from six pounds higher than he was when victorious in 2012 and with Cheek Pieces reapplied. (20/1 ante post)
Alfie Sherrin was put up as one of my handicappers to follow for Cheltenham but I have to say im surprised he comes here instead of the Kim Muir, that said he is a past winner. Stamina is Alfie Sherrin's forte and has been looked after this year as he has only seen the racecourse once all season when fourth in a big handicap hurdle at Haydock. Last season however he was fourth in the Kim Muir off a two pounds higher mark, but his jumping wasn't great that day and he will need to brush up on that. AP McCoy takes the ride this afternoon as he prefers Alfie Sherrin to top weight Cantlow who is a consistent sort in his own right which can only be seen as a positive. Alfie Sherrin to win this race again from six pounds higher than he was when victorious in 2012 and with Cheek Pieces reapplied. (20/1 ante post)
Stan James Champion Hurdle - The New One
The New One announced himself as a top class hurdler when taking some notable scalps at Cheltenham last year in the Neptune before a good effort out of Novice company at Aintree. He has been campaigned lightly this year starting off with an impressive display at Kempton when beating ex winner of this race, Rock On Ruby. He then tackled a higher class of race when winning the International here at Cheltenham fending off Zarkandar in more testing conditions than he will experience today. Most recently he was seen just being touched off in the Christmas Hurdle behind My Tent Or Yours when in reality he probably should have won after fluffing the last completely. He had to be the first to commit that day also which isn't ideal and in the end My Tent Or Yours was able to travel into the race and pounce at the last to win. Sam Twiston-Davies to team up with his father and ride The New One to victory in the Champion Hurdle. (3/1)
The New One announced himself as a top class hurdler when taking some notable scalps at Cheltenham last year in the Neptune before a good effort out of Novice company at Aintree. He has been campaigned lightly this year starting off with an impressive display at Kempton when beating ex winner of this race, Rock On Ruby. He then tackled a higher class of race when winning the International here at Cheltenham fending off Zarkandar in more testing conditions than he will experience today. Most recently he was seen just being touched off in the Christmas Hurdle behind My Tent Or Yours when in reality he probably should have won after fluffing the last completely. He had to be the first to commit that day also which isn't ideal and in the end My Tent Or Yours was able to travel into the race and pounce at the last to win. Sam Twiston-Davies to team up with his father and ride The New One to victory in the Champion Hurdle. (3/1)
OLBG Mares Hurdle - Quevega
This should be a fairly short one as Quevega goes for her sixth successive win in the Mares Hurdle and to reinstate herself as the Queen of Cheltenham. Her closest rival is likely to be Sirene D'ainay again who at one point looked to have the beating of her last season before Quevega found an extra gear after the final hurdle. Nothing has managed to get close to her in recent times and with her usual preparation of coming here fresh she should once again be very hard to beat. (10/11)
This should be a fairly short one as Quevega goes for her sixth successive win in the Mares Hurdle and to reinstate herself as the Queen of Cheltenham. Her closest rival is likely to be Sirene D'ainay again who at one point looked to have the beating of her last season before Quevega found an extra gear after the final hurdle. Nothing has managed to get close to her in recent times and with her usual preparation of coming here fresh she should once again be very hard to beat. (10/11)
Terry Biddlecombe National Hunt Chase - Rogue Angel
One for Gigginstown and Mouse Morris now as they saddle Rogue Angel in the four miler this year who has been consistent enough throughout the season. He managed to win a Beginners Chase easily at Punchestown two starts ago in a competitive field on testing ground, which im not convinced is what he wants. The blinkers are kept on today after disappointing in a big way last time behind Foxrock but the return to good ground should see him post a much better performance. Davy Russell said at the start of the season that he will win an Irish National one day which would suggest that stamina is at a premium. On the other hand he isn't short of speed as on his second start over fences he was able to match Champagne Fever for a long way before a shuddering error bought him to a halt. Rogue Angel to land the four miler for Steven Clements and Mouse Morris. (14/1)
One for Gigginstown and Mouse Morris now as they saddle Rogue Angel in the four miler this year who has been consistent enough throughout the season. He managed to win a Beginners Chase easily at Punchestown two starts ago in a competitive field on testing ground, which im not convinced is what he wants. The blinkers are kept on today after disappointing in a big way last time behind Foxrock but the return to good ground should see him post a much better performance. Davy Russell said at the start of the season that he will win an Irish National one day which would suggest that stamina is at a premium. On the other hand he isn't short of speed as on his second start over fences he was able to match Champagne Fever for a long way before a shuddering error bought him to a halt. Rogue Angel to land the four miler for Steven Clements and Mouse Morris. (14/1)
Rewardsforracing Novices' Handicap Chase - Close House
Close House is an intriguing runner for David Pipe in the finale after a couple of good efforts out of Handicap company earlier in the season. He is the second of our Handicappers to follow that will run today but this race was always the one he was aimed at as it was his only entry, so no surprises here. Close House was running a big race on Chase Debut behind Wonderful Charm and Oscar Whisky before coming down four out, up until which his jumping had been good. Next up, once again at Cheltenham he was third behind Oscar Whisky and Taquin Du Seuil in what has to be said was atrocious ground on New Year's Day. More recently he was dropped to two miles which was never likely to suit and it showed as he laboured out the back and came in a well held fourth of four. However, he has dropped three pounds for that effort which can only help his cause today and is taken to land the finale. (25/1 ante post)
NAP - The New One
Nb - Irving
Good Luck and as always, Happy Punting!
Close House is an intriguing runner for David Pipe in the finale after a couple of good efforts out of Handicap company earlier in the season. He is the second of our Handicappers to follow that will run today but this race was always the one he was aimed at as it was his only entry, so no surprises here. Close House was running a big race on Chase Debut behind Wonderful Charm and Oscar Whisky before coming down four out, up until which his jumping had been good. Next up, once again at Cheltenham he was third behind Oscar Whisky and Taquin Du Seuil in what has to be said was atrocious ground on New Year's Day. More recently he was dropped to two miles which was never likely to suit and it showed as he laboured out the back and came in a well held fourth of four. However, he has dropped three pounds for that effort which can only help his cause today and is taken to land the finale. (25/1 ante post)
NAP - The New One
Nb - Irving
Good Luck and as always, Happy Punting!
Friday 7 March 2014
Smith to take a Forward Flight
Festival fever is in full flow here and Cheltenham is only 3 days away with the action getting underway on Tuesday afternoon and with good weather promised. But we have the small matter of five meetings to get through this afternoon as Sandown stage the Imperial Cup which includes Regal Encore who was second in last year's Champion Bumper. They also race at Ayr and Chepstow as well as Wolverhampton who hold a meeting on the all weather with a few valuable contests. The only meeting in Ireland today is from Gowran Park in which a few Cheltenham entries opt to go there instead of the Festival.
As always we have a video prepared for you and we also have another Cheltenham Preview prepared as we cover the Gold Cup, World Hurdle, RSA and the Cheltenham Foxhunters. Joining me in the videos are the regular panelists in myself, @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. You can find both of the links below, enjoy the show!
Preview for today's racing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBTkOUoBH9k&feature=youtu.be
Cheltenham Preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqbxVje0rhM
Now onto today's selections!
Alan King has a few good chances next week at the Festival and he has another good one here with Gone Too Far and AP McCoy. He is having his first run in a handicap today after chasing home useful novices Garde La Victoire and Vaniteux on his last two outings. Most recently he travelled into the race nicely at Doncaster before not being thrown around by AP, but still ran on to be a good third. That was behind Vaniteux as mentioned before who is entered and fancied in next week's Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham. He proved no match for Garde La Victoire the time before that over a shorter distance but won nicely at Wetherby on his hurdle debut. He has been assigned a mark of 125 which looks workable and if ready for today's task he wont be too far away. (8/1)
3:15 Sandown - Vibrato Valtat
This looks far from a vintage renewal of the Imperial Cup but as always there are a few unexposed types in here, including the selection Vibrato Valtat. You may remember that last week our best bet of the day was a horse called Tiqris who looked likely to win comfortably when bought down two out. He was beaten comfortably by today's selection at Exeter by three and a quarter lengths when really it could have been ten times further. Vibrato Valtat was in receipt of weight that time but it didn't make the difference however he did take a while to discover how to win in his career. He first caught my eye over 110 yards shorter after being out sprinted again by Vaniteux (There is a running theme in today's blog) before again finding one too good at Kempton off a lower mark. Everything seemed to click last time out though and if he can carry that improvement forward it will take a good horse to beat him today. (7/2)
4:50 Ayr - Forward Flight
We end today's blog with another JP McManus horse, this time trained by Sue Smith who has her string in fine form as of late including Forward Flight. He is yet to win away from Sedgefield in his so far short career and hasn't looked the easiest ride on a few occasions but he possesses a lot of talent. Last time out he was able to ease up at the line when winning by 15 lengths but has a seven pound penalty to deal with today which shouldn't be a bother in truth. He finally seems to be coming into himself and should take the world of beating in what looks a below average field. (2/1)
NAP - Forward Flight
Nb - Vibrato Voltat
Good luck and as always, Happy Punting!
Tuesday 4 March 2014
Cheltenham Festival Handicappers To Follow
Make A Track – 148
We start off with one of two entries in the Festival Chase on day one at Cheltenham which is also the first handicap of the meeting, so lets get off to a flyer. Charlie Swan's gelding didn't exactly get the perfect prep run at Fairyhouse when pulling up in a listed chase but there could be a reason for that. Make A Track has never excelled in small race fields and it has long been my belief that big handicaps are the way forward for him. Whether there is a reason he underachieve's in smaller races is something only people closer to the horse will know, but he does wear a noseband and it could just be that he loses concentration during the race.
He started off this season with two defeats at short prices in four runner fields before demolishing a Limerick handicap field off a 10 pound lower mark than present in a 16 runner field. He then went on to disappoint again at a short price in a four runner field before coming a good seventh in a 17 runner race behind He'llberemembered. That was over two and a half miles which isn't ideal for him and that showed as he got outpaced turning for home, but stayed on after almost being brought down at the last.
One last point is that he has ran at the Festival before when a good fourth in the Martin Pipe behind Attaglance. He showed that two and a half miles was too short for him that day again as he lost his place two out and then stayed on strongly for a place.
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| Close House looks to break his Maiden tag over fences |
Baylis and Harding Handicap Chase - 33/1
Close House – 135
David Pipe saddles an interesting one in the final race on day one with Close House who is still a maiden after three starts over fences. As a hurdler he showed great promise and at his best he achieved a mark of 143 which is a whole 8 pounds higher than he is rated over the bigger obstacles. In his first two races Close House kept good company when running against Wonderful Charm, Taquin Du Seuil and Oscar Whisky and
was looking a danger when coming down on chase debut four from home. On his second outing he completed but could do no better than third on bottomless ground which isn't a bad performance in truth. His third and latest run bought about his handicap chase debut over two miles which was always going to be too short for him and he finished a lowly last of the four competitors. A combination of the step up in trip and a drop of three pounds in the handicap could see him go close here with jumping not much of an issue in my mind.
Rewards4Racing Novices Handicap Chase - 25/1
Indian Icon – 121
Indian Icon is a risky one as he looks unlikely to get into his handicap but will need 26 horses above him to come out if he wants to sneak in at the bottom of the weights. If he were to get into the race then he will be lethal off a mark of 121 after chasing home Ivan Grozny two outings ago but couldn't go with him on testing ground. That has been his downfall this year as he needs better ground but hasn't been able to perform to his best on the tough winter surface in Ireland. Each time he has travelled like the best horse in the race but when push has come to shove he couldn't quicken in the ground.
On the level he was a useful 83 rated horse so there definitely looks room for breathing regarding his hurdles mark on that front. Like Close House he is also a maiden in this sphere which isn't ideal but would be tackling a handicap for the first time which is a positive. Despite being a maiden from 5 attempts over hurdles he has done no worse than fourth, but the stand out of the form is definitely the 2nd to Ivan Grozny. If he makes it into the race then Indian Icon will be a serious contender and is one to keep onside for future reference.
Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle - 33/1
Alfie Sherrin –
134
Alfie Sherrin is no stranger to the Cheltenham Festival as he looks to add to his excellent record on his fourth visit to Cheltenham. He tasted Festival success when partnering Richie McLernon to catch Fruity O'Rooney in the Festival Chase in 2012, which he has another entry in again this year. The alternate option for him and in my eyes the more likely target is the Kim Muir for which he is 55th on the list, whereas he is a lowly 76th
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| Alfie Sherrin on his way to Festival glory |
Baylis and Harding Handicap Chase - 20/1
Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Handicap Chase - 16/1
Get Me Out Of Here
– 148
Get Me Out Of Here is another horse that is no stranger to Cheltenham and will be making his fifth appearance at the Festival next week. He has two entries throughout the course of the four days with his first option coming in the Coral Cup in which he was runner up back in 2012 behind Son Of Flicka. That effort came from a 7 pound higher mark and also off top weight which is a hard thing to do in a Festival Handicap. This time last season he was rated 158 and contesting the World Hurdle which proved to be too much for him and he was pulled up, but he showed promise last time in the Greatwood Hurdle.
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| Get Me Out Of Here bids gain his first Cheltenham success |
That race is a similar distance to his other engagement for the week in the County Hurdle which is another race he has been second back in 2011. That was off exactly the same mark as he is right now when he was just touched off on the line by Final Approach and Ruby Walsh.
He has been a serious force for some time in handicaps now and owes connections absolutely nothing but he couldn't deserve a festival win more. In four visits to the Cheltenham Festival he has been runner up in the Supreme Novices, Coral Cup and County Hurdle and is yet to win. He can break that duck this season but will need the ground to dry out.
Vincent O'Brien County Hurdle - 33/1
Coral Cup - 33/1
Next Sensation –
142
We save the best till last here with Next Sensation who is living up to his name in every way possible after winning eased down for the third time this season at Doncaster. His first win came off a basement mark of 105 and the improvement he has shown for Michael Scudamore this season is nothing short of miraculous. He beat God's Own last time out albeit in receipt of four pounds, but he could hardly have won easier that day and the runner up has since franked the form.
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| Next Sensation after his Doncaster romp |
The one single thing that has impressed me about him is his jumping, if you watch his last race you will understand why as he is a giant of a horse. That doesn't mean he lacks any speed however as he does things very easily from the front end and at present has the perfect mix of Speed and Stamina. He was raised nine pounds for his latest victory which if showing up in the same frame of mind wont be nearly enough. With the detraction of Ted Veale, who it has been announced will go for the Arkle, he has now shortened significantly and is favourite in places. Next Sensation will take all the beating at Cheltenham and I fully expect him to make into a Graded chaser next season.
Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap - 10/1
Byrne Group Plate - 20/1
Sunday 2 March 2014
Cheltenham Memories - Brindisi Breeze
At the time of his victory in the Albert Barlett Novices Hurdle, the story of Brindisi Breeze looked one that would capture the hearts of everyone in racing for years to come, Instead it turned out to be a story filled with tragedy.
On March 16th 2012, Brindisi Breeze had formed a formidable partnership with Campbell Gillies after winning each of the 3 races they took part in together. The duo came into the race a 7/1 chance behind only Boston Bob who headed the market for the familiar names of Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh.
The instructions that day? Simple, get out in front and stay there, which Campbell and Brindisi Breeze made look easy. At the top of the hill half of the field were well off the bridle with Boston Bob cutting through the pack and Grand Vision and Meister Eckhart nibbling at his heels. Upon turning for home the crowd let out a roar of support for the Scottish raider and Gillies kicked for home with the leader taking a four length lead with him.
Three final rivals, one hurdle and the Cheltenham hill stood between Brindisi Breeze and victory in his first Grade One. That chasing trio quickly became two and at the final flight it looked more than likely that Boston Bob would claim victory and break the hearts of many, but the Scottish pair had other ideas. The rest makes for fantastic viewing and one that leaves a lump in the throat of many.
The biggest cheer of the festival in 2012 came as Gillies punched the air in front of the crowd, but nobody could imagine the fate that lay before them.
In the early hours on the morning of 19th May 2012 Brindisi Breeze escaped his paddock by jumping the fence and was hit by a tanker, dying instantly. The horse that had so much potential and seemingly had the world at his feet was suddenly taken away from us in what can only be described as a freak accident. That wasn't the end of this horrific story however.
Just over a month later on holiday with a few friends in Greece, Gillies was found dead in a swimming pool at the resort in which they were staying. Three months after the highlight of Cheltenham for many people, the two main participants were both taken from the world and racing lost two bright young stars.
My words cant do justice to the tragedies that happened in 2012 so in the only way I can imagine does him justice, I leave you with 'A Song For Campbell' by Mark Boylan.
On March 16th 2012, Brindisi Breeze had formed a formidable partnership with Campbell Gillies after winning each of the 3 races they took part in together. The duo came into the race a 7/1 chance behind only Boston Bob who headed the market for the familiar names of Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh.
The instructions that day? Simple, get out in front and stay there, which Campbell and Brindisi Breeze made look easy. At the top of the hill half of the field were well off the bridle with Boston Bob cutting through the pack and Grand Vision and Meister Eckhart nibbling at his heels. Upon turning for home the crowd let out a roar of support for the Scottish raider and Gillies kicked for home with the leader taking a four length lead with him.
Three final rivals, one hurdle and the Cheltenham hill stood between Brindisi Breeze and victory in his first Grade One. That chasing trio quickly became two and at the final flight it looked more than likely that Boston Bob would claim victory and break the hearts of many, but the Scottish pair had other ideas. The rest makes for fantastic viewing and one that leaves a lump in the throat of many.
The biggest cheer of the festival in 2012 came as Gillies punched the air in front of the crowd, but nobody could imagine the fate that lay before them.
In the early hours on the morning of 19th May 2012 Brindisi Breeze escaped his paddock by jumping the fence and was hit by a tanker, dying instantly. The horse that had so much potential and seemingly had the world at his feet was suddenly taken away from us in what can only be described as a freak accident. That wasn't the end of this horrific story however.
Just over a month later on holiday with a few friends in Greece, Gillies was found dead in a swimming pool at the resort in which they were staying. Three months after the highlight of Cheltenham for many people, the two main participants were both taken from the world and racing lost two bright young stars.
My words cant do justice to the tragedies that happened in 2012 so in the only way I can imagine does him justice, I leave you with 'A Song For Campbell' by Mark Boylan.
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