Good morning racing fans, I hope we are all well rested ahead of another big day of sport ahead of us and in anticipation for this we have another video preview for you. Once again joining me this week is Calum Madell and Adam Webb, you can follow them on twitter at @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell. Let us know what you thought of the video and if you have selections for us. We will be doing another video next week that you can watch live, you can do so by clicking the link that we will tweet beforehand.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9rcVOY_7qQ - Follow this link for the video
As always Martin is running another Pigeon Swoop for this Saturday of racing. You can enter by sending your selections in the four races to @Pigeon_Island on twitter. Everything is explained on that twitter page and if you manage to land all four winners you will get a free bet from BetVictor. Good Luck!!
I'm off to Sandown today so if you see me come and say hello! But now for the important stuff and this weeks selections after a fantastic week last.
2:05 Sandown - B Fifty Two
We start of this weekend at Sandown where John Hills is taken to land the opener with the potentially well handicapped B Fifty Two. In truth his only worthwhile form since his two year old years came behind Khubala at Windsor when he could only manage fifth. But as a result from them efforts he has tumbled down the weights while still hinting at ability on numerous occasions. At the height of his two year old season he had earned a rating of 107 which has since dropped 21 pounds down to a workable mark of 86. It has been 78 days B Fifty Two graced the racecourse but during that time has had many declarations to his name that he hasn't taken up. Each time top class jockeys have been booked which isn't too common for the stable and today is no different with William Buick getting the leg up. One last comment is that he has a poor draw of 15 at Sandown, but id be wary of draw bias today as the sprint winners all came wide yesterday. B Fifty Two to refind the winning thread at a big price. (25/1)
2:20 Chester - New Fforest
New Fforest is a progressive horse for the Andrew Balding yard and was last seen when showing a nice turn of foot during her win at Warwick. Unlike B Fifty Two she has the perfect draw at Chester and will have the rail which is oh so important round here, providing she jumps well of course. The yard is also in good form and were amongst the winners here yesterday as well as throwing in a 2nd placed effort for good measure. Young claimer Oisin Murphy takes the ride again after winning on her last time out and combined with the three pounds allowance she carries just 8-6. This is ten pounds less than her official mark and should be able to do some damage against the older horses today. Oisin Murphy to make is 2 from 2 aboard New Fforest. (4/1)
2:40 Beverley - Masamah
It's time for the Beverley Bullet over the flying five and Borderlescott looks to add to his victory last year, preference is for Marco Botti's representative in Masamah however. His most recent appearance was at Glorious Goodwood when eighth behind the progressive Moviesta when meeting trouble. He showed excellent early pace that day and blazed the trail from the front, he remained there till around a furlong and a half out. At this point his chance was fading but certainly wasn't helped by Tickled Pink and Spirit Quartz making him the meat in a sandwich, after that happened Neil Callan just eased him home. Today is notably easier despite still being competitive and the cheekpieces stay on, his record with them on is 518 all in top class races. Masamah to finally get his big day in the sun in the Beverley Bullet. (8/1)
3:30 Chester - Savanna La Mar
Sir Mark Prescott has a nice one here with Savanna La Mar who is a daughter of the 2008 Horse of the Year, Curlin. She began her 3 year old season with 2 runs in Europe, one in Germany and one in France both of which she finished fifth. She was then bought back over to England and reappeared in a hot Fillies Listed race where she was beaten a length into fourth. Turning for home she was readily outpaced and didn't look likely to trouble the judge but somehow found herself in front two furlongs out. She battled to the line but was swamped against the rail while showing a likable attitude in defeat and beat some nice horses including Bite Of The Cherry. Her strongest form came in her two year old season however where she only won once which came at Chester over 7 furlongs. After that she went on to finish just 4 and a quarter lengths behind Certify over a distance far too short for her, today is much more to her liking. Savanna La Mar to land the spoils. (11/1)
5:25 Market Rasen - Coronea Lilly
We have a while to wait for today's NAP as it comes over the jumps at Market Rasen with Neil Mulholland's mare Coronea Lilly. Despite being a nine year old she has been lightly raced due to some injuries but it hasn't affected her ability at all. This season she has been second over course and distance twice in more competitive affairs than this one promises to be. There are a couple of question marks here however, smaller field races can sometimes turn into a crawl which wont benefit her in the slightest. The other worry is her jumping, I was surprised last time as it was that are that cost her the race when usually she is very slick through the air. But she hails from a yard bang in form and gets in off the mark as last time again, so in a weaker race Coronea Lilly can finally get her win. (2/1)
NAP - Coronea Lilly
Nb - Savanna La Mar
Good luck today guys and as always, Happy Punting!
Friday, 30 August 2013
Friday, 23 August 2013
August 24th 2013
Good morning everyone and congratulations to making it through another work week and we have a little bit of money in our pockets today after Chancery won for us yesterday. Last week was somewhat a damp squib but this week at York we have once again been amongst the winners. Once again we have made a video previewing tomorrow's racing, this time Calum Madell replaces Michael who is on vacation. You can follow them two on twitter on @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121.
Once again Martin will be running a swoop on the first four races of York for the final time this week. As always to enter send your selections to @Pigeon_Island on twitter for a bit of fun in the afternoon without spending a penny. Good luck if you decide to enter!!
Onto todays racing!
2:20 Goodwood - Valen
Michael Bell's filly was very promising on debut over a furlong shorter at Glorious Goodwood when behind Valonia but has since built on that. Most recently she visited Ffos Las and was mightily impressive on fairly testing ground so the forecast rain will be no trouble at all. The clear danger looks to be Amazing Maria after she romped home at Glorious Goodwood and looks to be a filly improving all the time. Gerald Mosse takes the ride today which is very interesting but Valen traveled like a class horse at Ffos Las and looks to be the most improved horse in the field. The fact that it took Amazing Maria 3 attempts to get off the mark would worry me and at the prices Valen is the selection. (6/1)
3:10 Curragh - Dutch Masterpiece
Today's NAP comes in the form of Gary Moore's highly progressive sprinter Dutch Masterpiece who is seen on a rare voyage to Ireland for the Moore yard. Everyone back at the yard rates him very highly and in the form book he is one to take very seriously after an impressive win at Newmarket. It wasn't the strongest of races that day but it was more the manner of the victory over what he beat. He was giving weight away to every one of his opponents that day and it has to be added that he was running against seasoned handicappers. He hit the front around a furlong out and quickly went a length clear despite drifting left but still went further clear in the process. He wont get the chance to drift around today as he should get company till late on, but I'd fully expect him to prove much the best on the day. (9/2)
3:15 York - Parbold
Connections really fancied Parbold at Royal Ascot but he bumped into the impressive War Command who has since flopped in Ireland. Richard Fahey's Colt went to Goodwood on the back of his run at the Royal meeting but was beaten soundly into third. Usually that wouldn't be a positive thing but I hold Outstrip in very high regard and he could be a top class three year old, Toormore also looks a very good two year old. Of course tomorrow is very competitive and there is plenty of class in the race with co favourites of 6 and just the one rank outsider. Parbold will appreciate the step back to a flat course and being back at 6 furlongs doesn't look a negative by any means. One last comment on Parbold is that he won his Maiden on soft ground so the rain forecast wont be against him at all. Parbold to win the Gimcrack. (9/2)
5:00 York - Sam Sharp
Ian Williams' Gelding Sam Sharp is taken to bounce back from a poor effort last time out. Until then he had looked to be improving when posting some of the best efforts of his career. The pick of them efforts came here when victorious over a mile and a furlong off a mark of 86 before running a good 2nd behind Snowboarder at Newmarket. His latest outing resulted in a disappointing effort on Shergar Cup day when sixth over a mile under Cathy Gannon. I am prepared to put that down to a rider that didn't know the horse too well and he can still be competitive off today's mark, I am in know way blaming Cathy of course. It is interesting that Ian Williams has decided to step him up in trip which at this stage of his career could be a wise move. He was entered in a race earlier in the week but didn't take up that engagement due to the ground, today is much more suitable. Sam Sharp to cause a minor upset at a nice price. (12/1)
Ian Williams' Gelding Sam Sharp is taken to bounce back from a poor effort last time out. Until then he had looked to be improving when posting some of the best efforts of his career. The pick of them efforts came here when victorious over a mile and a furlong off a mark of 86 before running a good 2nd behind Snowboarder at Newmarket. His latest outing resulted in a disappointing effort on Shergar Cup day when sixth over a mile under Cathy Gannon. I am prepared to put that down to a rider that didn't know the horse too well and he can still be competitive off today's mark, I am in know way blaming Cathy of course. It is interesting that Ian Williams has decided to step him up in trip which at this stage of his career could be a wise move. He was entered in a race earlier in the week but didn't take up that engagement due to the ground, today is much more suitable. Sam Sharp to cause a minor upset at a nice price. (12/1)
NAP - Dutch Masterpiece
Nb - Valen
Good luck if you have a bet today and as always happy punting!
Thursday, 22 August 2013
York Ebor Meeting Day Three
Good morning racing fans, yesterday wasn't quite so glamorous but we are back with some more selections and hoping to give the bookies another bashing. Once again we have made a video previewing today's racing at York, if you would like to follow the two people with me you can on @AdamWebb121 and @Mytentoryours. Michael wont be able to join us tomorrow, if you would like to and think you know your stuff, please contact us on twitter to fill in for the day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdI8Bree5p4
Martin has again been running a swoop all week, to enter today's swoop for a bit of fun to no expense send your selections for the first four races at York. You can send them to @Pigeon_Island on twitter and just like that you will be entered. Good luck if you enter!
Onto the racing!
1:55 York - Chancery
Dave O'Meara had two winners yesterday and as always is in fantastic form with pretty much all of his horses. Chancery actually began his career as a National Hunt horse in bumpers and once finished 2nd to The New One at Cheltenham. Since he has joined the flat racing ranks he has improved all the time from the average rating of 76 to his current rating of 91 which is four pounds lower than last time. He was disappointing that day and that run needs to be forgiven but the step up in trip certainly looks to be in his favour. Daniel Tudhope gets the ride back and seems to get on with him very well, winning his last two rides aboard today's selection. Chancery gets the nod for today's opener. (11/1)
2:30 York - Caucus
John Gosden has had a bit of a quiet season so far compared to last year but has just started to hit a bit of form including a big win yesterday with The Fugue. Caucus started this season with a good 2nd to Estimate by a length and three quarters when giving away 6 pounds which is strong form. Next time out he landed a strong race at Sandown in good style before going on to disappoint at Goodwood on his latest outing. He was beaten way too far from home and that run cant be taken literally, especially at a course like Goodwood. Today I would expect a much stronger run today in a much weaker race, Simenon is definitely the one to beat but Caucus could hold the key here. (6/1)
3:05 York - Gabrial
Richard Fahey adores this meeting and holds a leading chance here with Gabrial who doesn't come without his problems. He has been known to be slow out of the stalls but was better last time out so that isn't the biggest of worries today. His strongest form this year came from Epsom when beaten two lengths by Gregorian, in my mind Epsom is one of the worst tracks for him. York however could well be perfect as he is a lovely big galloping type, his chance today would boil down to whether he actually wants to do it today. If he has got out of bed on the right side then there could be a bit of a shock on the cards to lead us up to the Nunthorpe. Graham Lee takes the ride and the quirky Gabrial can stamp his authority on the Ebor meeting. (13/2)
3:40 York - Rosdhu Queen
William Haggas' filly was a star two year old last season but has been a bit disappointing this term for one reason or another. I hope for the world that they let her use her early speed today and go from the front as that is what made her so successful last year. If she does that then she can turn her whole season around here after a somewhat disappointing season thus far. One interesting point is that she has cheek pieces fitted for the first time which could bring about the needed improvement here. She will however need to find it as she hasn't won since her two year old years but has shown glimpses of form this year. Rosdhu Queen to cause a shock in the Nunthorpe. (22/1)
NAP - Caucus
Nb - Gabrial
Good luck if having a bet today and as always happy punting!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdI8Bree5p4
Martin has again been running a swoop all week, to enter today's swoop for a bit of fun to no expense send your selections for the first four races at York. You can send them to @Pigeon_Island on twitter and just like that you will be entered. Good luck if you enter!
Onto the racing!
1:55 York - Chancery
Dave O'Meara had two winners yesterday and as always is in fantastic form with pretty much all of his horses. Chancery actually began his career as a National Hunt horse in bumpers and once finished 2nd to The New One at Cheltenham. Since he has joined the flat racing ranks he has improved all the time from the average rating of 76 to his current rating of 91 which is four pounds lower than last time. He was disappointing that day and that run needs to be forgiven but the step up in trip certainly looks to be in his favour. Daniel Tudhope gets the ride back and seems to get on with him very well, winning his last two rides aboard today's selection. Chancery gets the nod for today's opener. (11/1)
2:30 York - Caucus
John Gosden has had a bit of a quiet season so far compared to last year but has just started to hit a bit of form including a big win yesterday with The Fugue. Caucus started this season with a good 2nd to Estimate by a length and three quarters when giving away 6 pounds which is strong form. Next time out he landed a strong race at Sandown in good style before going on to disappoint at Goodwood on his latest outing. He was beaten way too far from home and that run cant be taken literally, especially at a course like Goodwood. Today I would expect a much stronger run today in a much weaker race, Simenon is definitely the one to beat but Caucus could hold the key here. (6/1)
3:05 York - Gabrial
Richard Fahey adores this meeting and holds a leading chance here with Gabrial who doesn't come without his problems. He has been known to be slow out of the stalls but was better last time out so that isn't the biggest of worries today. His strongest form this year came from Epsom when beaten two lengths by Gregorian, in my mind Epsom is one of the worst tracks for him. York however could well be perfect as he is a lovely big galloping type, his chance today would boil down to whether he actually wants to do it today. If he has got out of bed on the right side then there could be a bit of a shock on the cards to lead us up to the Nunthorpe. Graham Lee takes the ride and the quirky Gabrial can stamp his authority on the Ebor meeting. (13/2)
3:40 York - Rosdhu Queen
William Haggas' filly was a star two year old last season but has been a bit disappointing this term for one reason or another. I hope for the world that they let her use her early speed today and go from the front as that is what made her so successful last year. If she does that then she can turn her whole season around here after a somewhat disappointing season thus far. One interesting point is that she has cheek pieces fitted for the first time which could bring about the needed improvement here. She will however need to find it as she hasn't won since her two year old years but has shown glimpses of form this year. Rosdhu Queen to cause a shock in the Nunthorpe. (22/1)
NAP - Caucus
Nb - Gabrial
Good luck if having a bet today and as always happy punting!
Wednesday, 21 August 2013
York Ebor Meeting Day Two
Good morning racing fans, we returned to winning ways yesterday with Bogart and Telescope providing us with a double near 18/1. Surprisingly it was with the two that weren't my Nap or Nb, but I'm not one to complain about a winner! Once more we have done a video previewing today's action and a small review of yesterday, I hope you enjoy. Follow the other two on twitter on @AdamWebb121 and @Mytentoryours.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kV1mw5YHd0
Once more Martin is on a holiday from work this week but is still running a Swoop for the entire York meeting, as always you can enter your four selections on twitter to @Pigeon_Island. Today is just the first four races which is what I shall be previewing as well. Good luck if entering and I hope you enjoy our video preview!
Onto today's action!
1:55 York - Xanthos
Ed Walker is bringing two horses up from Newmarket today (This one and Reroute in the next race) both have chances and would make a nice each way double. But it is Xanthos who gets the vote in our opener after a nice debut at Windsor where he was taught about racing and ran an encouraging fourth. He was then taken all the way up to Newcastle where he won in the style of a very good horse over a furlong further than today. To be quite honest though I don't think that will hinder his chances too much as in the last furlong he wasn't extending but doing enough. The speedy Xanthos can land today's prize after an impressive maiden win and at a nice price as well. (22/1)
2:30 York - J Wonder
As mentioned previously, Reroute could be a nice second leg of an each way double here but preference is for J Wonder. She has been nicely campaigned this year and looks a horse that could be a potential superstar, one step at a time of course though. She won her maiden at Newbury in very a very nice fashion before landing a handicap very cosily off of today's mark. Today is a big step up in class for her but she is nowhere near her best yet and remains an exciting horse win, lose or draw today. Despite it being a tough race here she looks to have a leading chance and if the expected improvement comes she will be tough to beat. (11/4)
3:05 York - Sam Sharp
One at more of a price now with Ian Williams Gelding Sam Sharp who is taken to bounce back from a poor effort last time out. Until then he had looked to improve posting some of the best efforts of his career. The pick of them efforts came here when victorious over a mile off a mark of 86 before running a good 2nd behind Snowboarder at Newmarket. His latest outing resulted in a disappointing effort on Shergar Cup day when sixth over a mile under Cathy Gannon. I am prepared to put that down to a rider that didn't know the horse too well and he can still be competitive off today's mark. Sam Sharp to cause an upset at a nice price. (25/1)
3:40 York - Secret Gesture
Ralph Beckett's filly burst onto the Oaks scene with a devastating performance when winning the Lingfield Oaks trial hard on the bridle. She was immediately installed as the favourite for Epsom and found only her stablemate too good when Talent swooped by late on. You could argue that she wasn't truly in love with the track that day and York will be much more to her liking. She comes here off the back of a disappointing run in the German Oaks however she did manage to get 2nd once again there. Before this race was priced up I was expecting something nearer to 3/1 so I am delighted at the prices on offer here. Places are first three today so 9/1 looks to be a huge price to me and is an each way steal. Secret Gesture to refind the winning thread today and finally win her oaks. (9/1)
NAP - J Wonder
Nb - Xanthos
Good luck today and as always Happy Punting!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kV1mw5YHd0
Once more Martin is on a holiday from work this week but is still running a Swoop for the entire York meeting, as always you can enter your four selections on twitter to @Pigeon_Island. Today is just the first four races which is what I shall be previewing as well. Good luck if entering and I hope you enjoy our video preview!
Onto today's action!
1:55 York - Xanthos
Ed Walker is bringing two horses up from Newmarket today (This one and Reroute in the next race) both have chances and would make a nice each way double. But it is Xanthos who gets the vote in our opener after a nice debut at Windsor where he was taught about racing and ran an encouraging fourth. He was then taken all the way up to Newcastle where he won in the style of a very good horse over a furlong further than today. To be quite honest though I don't think that will hinder his chances too much as in the last furlong he wasn't extending but doing enough. The speedy Xanthos can land today's prize after an impressive maiden win and at a nice price as well. (22/1)
2:30 York - J Wonder
As mentioned previously, Reroute could be a nice second leg of an each way double here but preference is for J Wonder. She has been nicely campaigned this year and looks a horse that could be a potential superstar, one step at a time of course though. She won her maiden at Newbury in very a very nice fashion before landing a handicap very cosily off of today's mark. Today is a big step up in class for her but she is nowhere near her best yet and remains an exciting horse win, lose or draw today. Despite it being a tough race here she looks to have a leading chance and if the expected improvement comes she will be tough to beat. (11/4)
3:05 York - Sam Sharp
One at more of a price now with Ian Williams Gelding Sam Sharp who is taken to bounce back from a poor effort last time out. Until then he had looked to improve posting some of the best efforts of his career. The pick of them efforts came here when victorious over a mile off a mark of 86 before running a good 2nd behind Snowboarder at Newmarket. His latest outing resulted in a disappointing effort on Shergar Cup day when sixth over a mile under Cathy Gannon. I am prepared to put that down to a rider that didn't know the horse too well and he can still be competitive off today's mark. Sam Sharp to cause an upset at a nice price. (25/1)
3:40 York - Secret Gesture
Ralph Beckett's filly burst onto the Oaks scene with a devastating performance when winning the Lingfield Oaks trial hard on the bridle. She was immediately installed as the favourite for Epsom and found only her stablemate too good when Talent swooped by late on. You could argue that she wasn't truly in love with the track that day and York will be much more to her liking. She comes here off the back of a disappointing run in the German Oaks however she did manage to get 2nd once again there. Before this race was priced up I was expecting something nearer to 3/1 so I am delighted at the prices on offer here. Places are first three today so 9/1 looks to be a huge price to me and is an each way steal. Secret Gesture to refind the winning thread today and finally win her oaks. (9/1)
NAP - J Wonder
Nb - Xanthos
Good luck today and as always Happy Punting!
Tuesday, 20 August 2013
York Ebor Meeting Day One
Good morning racing fans, not a long intro but something for you to watch in case this blog isn't enough for you! I have teamed up with two friends to create a preview of today's action, if you enjoy the video and want to follow them on twitter you can on @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5omHFIlisuE
Martin is on a holiday from work this week but is still running a Swoop for the entire York meeting, as always you can enter your four selections on twitter to @Pigeon_Island. Today is just the first four races which is what I shall be previewing as well. Good luck if entering and I hope you enjoy our video preview!
All feedback is appreciated, onto today's action however.
1:55 York - Bogart
Kevin Ryan's sprinter was last seen at this track and was in the process of running a huge race when disaster struck around 2 furlongs from home. The saddle had slipped leaving Amy Ryan absolutely no chance of staying on board, she took a sickening fall but incredibly got up almost straight away. To me he was looking like the winner until that point and the only good thing from it is that he can run off the same mark today. Neil Callan gets the ride for the first time today which is by no means a negative and the slight drop in trip is by no means a negative. However a negative is that he hasn't won since his 2 year old years when landing the 2 year old trophy at Redcar and looking top class. He does look to be refinding his form though and is taken to land the opener of the week. (10/1)
2:30 York - First Flight
For me this was a very straightforward choice and possibly the second strongest bet of the week behind Al Kazeem later this afternoon. We have only seen First Flight in public once and he impressed me greatly that day after overcoming his inexperience at Newbury. He missed the break by around ten lengths and didn't look as if he knew too much about the game in the first two furlongs of the race. All of a sudden he picked up and in a matter of strides he was level and swooping past the field to win going away from a strung out group. I was very taken that day and even though its early days he looks to be one of the leading lights in next years 2000 Guineas. First Flight to land this on his way to bigger and better things. (2/1)
3:05 York - Telescope
At the start of the season Telescope was the one horse everyone wanted to be on in the Derby, however injuries plagued him and he is just getting back on track. He opened up this season with a easy win at Leicester against only two rivals in a Conditions race, obviously that was just a training run. He then ran in a Group 3 against the older horses which some people said 'burst his bubble', which in a sense may be true. If he didn't come with the reputation he carries, we would be saying that it was a very good run against older horses. One last thing is that he looked as if he will relish the extra two furlongs and to me looked like a horse who may enjoy a St Leger trip. Telescope to continue his progression today. (13/8)
3:40 York - Al Kazeem
Today's Nap and probably the best bet of the week comes in the form of this season's revelation horse from Roger Charlton's yard, Al Kazeem. This is being built up as the clash between Toronado and Al Kazeem when in truth I would see Trading Leather as more of a threat. There are major stamina doubts over Toronado but it is more than ensured with the selection and Trading Leather, the same can be said with Hillstar. Another thing in favour of Al Kazeem is the layout of the York course, it is a track that emphasises on stamina, something Al Kazeem lacks none of. Trading Leather to follow home Al Kazeem and a fourth Group 1 of the year for the selection. (6/4)
NAP - Al Kazeem
Nb - First Flight
Good luck today guys and as always Happy Punting!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5omHFIlisuE
Martin is on a holiday from work this week but is still running a Swoop for the entire York meeting, as always you can enter your four selections on twitter to @Pigeon_Island. Today is just the first four races which is what I shall be previewing as well. Good luck if entering and I hope you enjoy our video preview!
All feedback is appreciated, onto today's action however.
1:55 York - Bogart
Kevin Ryan's sprinter was last seen at this track and was in the process of running a huge race when disaster struck around 2 furlongs from home. The saddle had slipped leaving Amy Ryan absolutely no chance of staying on board, she took a sickening fall but incredibly got up almost straight away. To me he was looking like the winner until that point and the only good thing from it is that he can run off the same mark today. Neil Callan gets the ride for the first time today which is by no means a negative and the slight drop in trip is by no means a negative. However a negative is that he hasn't won since his 2 year old years when landing the 2 year old trophy at Redcar and looking top class. He does look to be refinding his form though and is taken to land the opener of the week. (10/1)
2:30 York - First Flight
For me this was a very straightforward choice and possibly the second strongest bet of the week behind Al Kazeem later this afternoon. We have only seen First Flight in public once and he impressed me greatly that day after overcoming his inexperience at Newbury. He missed the break by around ten lengths and didn't look as if he knew too much about the game in the first two furlongs of the race. All of a sudden he picked up and in a matter of strides he was level and swooping past the field to win going away from a strung out group. I was very taken that day and even though its early days he looks to be one of the leading lights in next years 2000 Guineas. First Flight to land this on his way to bigger and better things. (2/1)
3:05 York - Telescope
At the start of the season Telescope was the one horse everyone wanted to be on in the Derby, however injuries plagued him and he is just getting back on track. He opened up this season with a easy win at Leicester against only two rivals in a Conditions race, obviously that was just a training run. He then ran in a Group 3 against the older horses which some people said 'burst his bubble', which in a sense may be true. If he didn't come with the reputation he carries, we would be saying that it was a very good run against older horses. One last thing is that he looked as if he will relish the extra two furlongs and to me looked like a horse who may enjoy a St Leger trip. Telescope to continue his progression today. (13/8)
3:40 York - Al Kazeem
Today's Nap and probably the best bet of the week comes in the form of this season's revelation horse from Roger Charlton's yard, Al Kazeem. This is being built up as the clash between Toronado and Al Kazeem when in truth I would see Trading Leather as more of a threat. There are major stamina doubts over Toronado but it is more than ensured with the selection and Trading Leather, the same can be said with Hillstar. Another thing in favour of Al Kazeem is the layout of the York course, it is a track that emphasises on stamina, something Al Kazeem lacks none of. Trading Leather to follow home Al Kazeem and a fourth Group 1 of the year for the selection. (6/4)
NAP - Al Kazeem
Nb - First Flight
Good luck today guys and as always Happy Punting!
Friday, 16 August 2013
Grandeur Goes Stateside
Good morning racing fans, I hope we have all recovered from a whipping last week and are ready to soldier through another tough day. We are spoilt for choice with race meetings today which spread all over the country, from Perth down to Lingfield. The main meetings of the day come courtesy of the Garden Racecourse Ripon, and Newbury who stage the Group 2 Hungerford Stakes. Support cards come from Chester, Doncaster, Market Rasen and one Irish meeting from Tramore in the evening. The other meeting is at Newmarket where they stage the annual Grey's only race in which 15 horses, of course all grey horses go to post.
Last week wasn't our finest hour and was most definitely the worst weekend we have ever had on this blog as all our selections failed to place. Hopefully things get a lot better this week!
Speaking of last week. I went to the evening meeting at Lingfield and had a great night, however one thing slightly bemused me. In the third race (A maiden over 6 furlongs) there was a 2/7 favourite in a nine horse race that duly obliged under James Doyle. In the parade ring I picked out an outsider to have a pound each way on who eventually came third at 66/1 for Tom Garner.
I walked up to one of the bookmakers on a stand and said 'one pound each way on number one please'. To my shock he replied 'we aren't betting each way on this one mate' and pushed me aside, so I looked at the other bookmakers looking for someone who would take my tiny bet. There were around 20 bookmakers there last week, which two of them were offering each way terms and offering 20/1 only. This happened again later in the night once more in a 9 runner race.
So my question, in a sociable evening when there is a concert on and there are unlikely to be any real gamblers there, why aren't they offering each way. Most people will be there for a night out and want a pound bet here and a couple of pounds there, where are they expecting to get trade from? Until then I have always been in favour to have Bookmakers on their pitches at the racecourse, but after that? Im not sure.
But from a rant to this weeks Pigeon Swoop! Martin is running a contest for the 2:20 and 2:55 from Newmarket and the 2:50 and 3:30 from Ripon. If you wish to enter just send your selections for them races to @pigeon_island on twitter and you will be entered for free. You can check everyone else's selections on this website, www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com and also see where you rank. Good luck if you decide to enter!
Once more George Gorman has kindly joined me in a tipping challenge. George is an amateur jockey based with Roger Teal and rides out for Gary Moore when he can as well as race riding in point to points. You will hopefully be able to see George in action on your TV's on board She Is A Cracker as soon as she makes it into a race off her mark. If he manages to tip you a winner, feel free to say thanks to him on twitter at @GeorgeFGorman. Good luck to him! But I hope he comes in 2nd.
Luke George
2:50 Ripon - Mehdi Head Space
3:15 Newbury - Gregorian Caspar Netscher
3:30 Ripon - Secret Witness Pearl Ice
6:40 Market Rasen - Lemon Drop Red Lauberhorn
Now onto the selections this week!
1:35 Newbury - Fashion Fund
Just the one early selection today with Fashion Fund who definitely didn't disgrace herself on debut at Glorious Goodwood. She was drawn in stall one which is furthest away from the stands resulting in her not being able to find any cover in the field. She also ran alone down the centre of the track for the majority of the race which isn't what a horse on debut needs. With a furlong to go she still held a slim chance in around fifth place but was looked after by Frankie Dettori, saving her for another day. That could be today after everything from that field that has run again has finished in the first two including Valen winning impressively the other day. I'd expect a much bigger run from Fashion Fund today and she can get off the mark at attractive odds. (9/2)
6:40 Market Rasen - Lemon Drop Red
A long wait not for the first of this evening's selections and it comes in the form of the promising Lemon Drop Red. His chase form doesn't read too well, but on the whole his jumping is very good despite unseating his rider twice. That includes last time when he was in the process of running the opposition into the ground when bought down by a loose horse. He even jumped that fence perfectly well but it just so happened the loose horse jumped across him and clipped heels upon landing. His unseating at Kempton was his fault however after trying to put in an extra stride and going through the top of the fence. This looks like an ideal opportunity for Lemon Drop Red and he can finally get his chasing career off the mark. (11/8)
7:40 Market Rasen - Coronea Lilly
Coronea Lilly is a horse I am very fond of but doesn't come without her injury risks, when fully fit however she is a very good horse. Last time she ran here over course and distance and just ran out of room to get to the leader, going down by half a length. She is up 5 pounds for that effort and instead of a 3 pound claimer she has Noel Fehily on board, i.e. carrying 8 pounds more. She is coming off the back of a personal best here though and despite being a 9 year old she is still very lightly raced so improvement is on the cards. Coronea Lilly to refind the winning thread in a fast run affair. (5/1)
11:44 Arlington Park - Grandeur
A long wait now and I hope you will be able to stay up with me till 11:44pm to watch the Arlington Million where Grandeur should be able to win his first Grade 1. Like Coronea Lilly he is coming off the back of a clear personal best when 3 quarters of a length behind Mukhadram when giving him three pounds. That was by far his best run to date and we already know he can handle the American tracks and bends after winning at the Breeders Cup meeting last year. After then he went to Hollywood park and was second once after being unlucky but then went on to win over two furlongs further. That will be the same distance today and after he has improved once more he can prove himself as top class. The one thing against him today is his draw, he is drawn 13 out in the graveyard but he should be able to drop in behind the field and pick them off. Grandeur to finally win his Grade 1 in America for Jeremy Noseda and William Buick. (5/2)
NAP - Grandeur
Nb - Lemon Drop Red
Good luck today and as always, happy punting!!
Last week wasn't our finest hour and was most definitely the worst weekend we have ever had on this blog as all our selections failed to place. Hopefully things get a lot better this week!
Speaking of last week. I went to the evening meeting at Lingfield and had a great night, however one thing slightly bemused me. In the third race (A maiden over 6 furlongs) there was a 2/7 favourite in a nine horse race that duly obliged under James Doyle. In the parade ring I picked out an outsider to have a pound each way on who eventually came third at 66/1 for Tom Garner.
I walked up to one of the bookmakers on a stand and said 'one pound each way on number one please'. To my shock he replied 'we aren't betting each way on this one mate' and pushed me aside, so I looked at the other bookmakers looking for someone who would take my tiny bet. There were around 20 bookmakers there last week, which two of them were offering each way terms and offering 20/1 only. This happened again later in the night once more in a 9 runner race.
So my question, in a sociable evening when there is a concert on and there are unlikely to be any real gamblers there, why aren't they offering each way. Most people will be there for a night out and want a pound bet here and a couple of pounds there, where are they expecting to get trade from? Until then I have always been in favour to have Bookmakers on their pitches at the racecourse, but after that? Im not sure.
But from a rant to this weeks Pigeon Swoop! Martin is running a contest for the 2:20 and 2:55 from Newmarket and the 2:50 and 3:30 from Ripon. If you wish to enter just send your selections for them races to @pigeon_island on twitter and you will be entered for free. You can check everyone else's selections on this website, www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com and also see where you rank. Good luck if you decide to enter!
Once more George Gorman has kindly joined me in a tipping challenge. George is an amateur jockey based with Roger Teal and rides out for Gary Moore when he can as well as race riding in point to points. You will hopefully be able to see George in action on your TV's on board She Is A Cracker as soon as she makes it into a race off her mark. If he manages to tip you a winner, feel free to say thanks to him on twitter at @GeorgeFGorman. Good luck to him! But I hope he comes in 2nd.
Luke George
2:50 Ripon - Mehdi Head Space
3:15 Newbury - Gregorian Caspar Netscher
3:30 Ripon - Secret Witness Pearl Ice
6:40 Market Rasen - Lemon Drop Red Lauberhorn
Now onto the selections this week!
1:35 Newbury - Fashion Fund
Just the one early selection today with Fashion Fund who definitely didn't disgrace herself on debut at Glorious Goodwood. She was drawn in stall one which is furthest away from the stands resulting in her not being able to find any cover in the field. She also ran alone down the centre of the track for the majority of the race which isn't what a horse on debut needs. With a furlong to go she still held a slim chance in around fifth place but was looked after by Frankie Dettori, saving her for another day. That could be today after everything from that field that has run again has finished in the first two including Valen winning impressively the other day. I'd expect a much bigger run from Fashion Fund today and she can get off the mark at attractive odds. (9/2)
6:40 Market Rasen - Lemon Drop Red
A long wait not for the first of this evening's selections and it comes in the form of the promising Lemon Drop Red. His chase form doesn't read too well, but on the whole his jumping is very good despite unseating his rider twice. That includes last time when he was in the process of running the opposition into the ground when bought down by a loose horse. He even jumped that fence perfectly well but it just so happened the loose horse jumped across him and clipped heels upon landing. His unseating at Kempton was his fault however after trying to put in an extra stride and going through the top of the fence. This looks like an ideal opportunity for Lemon Drop Red and he can finally get his chasing career off the mark. (11/8)
7:40 Market Rasen - Coronea Lilly
Coronea Lilly is a horse I am very fond of but doesn't come without her injury risks, when fully fit however she is a very good horse. Last time she ran here over course and distance and just ran out of room to get to the leader, going down by half a length. She is up 5 pounds for that effort and instead of a 3 pound claimer she has Noel Fehily on board, i.e. carrying 8 pounds more. She is coming off the back of a personal best here though and despite being a 9 year old she is still very lightly raced so improvement is on the cards. Coronea Lilly to refind the winning thread in a fast run affair. (5/1)
11:44 Arlington Park - Grandeur
A long wait now and I hope you will be able to stay up with me till 11:44pm to watch the Arlington Million where Grandeur should be able to win his first Grade 1. Like Coronea Lilly he is coming off the back of a clear personal best when 3 quarters of a length behind Mukhadram when giving him three pounds. That was by far his best run to date and we already know he can handle the American tracks and bends after winning at the Breeders Cup meeting last year. After then he went to Hollywood park and was second once after being unlucky but then went on to win over two furlongs further. That will be the same distance today and after he has improved once more he can prove himself as top class. The one thing against him today is his draw, he is drawn 13 out in the graveyard but he should be able to drop in behind the field and pick them off. Grandeur to finally win his Grade 1 in America for Jeremy Noseda and William Buick. (5/2)
NAP - Grandeur
Nb - Lemon Drop Red
Good luck today and as always, happy punting!!
Friday, 9 August 2013
Shergar Cup Day
Good Morning racing fans, today is the annual Shergar Cup held at Ascot as well as many supporting cards around the country. Whether you are for or against the Shergar Cup, you have to admit it brings the world of racing with four teams taking part this year. Captain of the home team is Kieren Fallon, he is joined by James Doyle and 2000 Guineas winning jockey Kevin Manning for Team Great Britain.
As always there is fierce competition from the European team with the trio of Andrasch Starke, Ioritz Mendizabal and Gerald Mosse completing that team.
They are joined by the team from the Rest Of The World headed by Gary Stevens with Yasunari Iwata and Joao Moreira completing that side.
Last but not least we have the ladies who could well be springing a not so big surprise, unfortunately with Hayley Turner breaking her ankle she sacrifices her place. This means the team captain is the more than capable Cathy Gannon, she is joined by Lisa Allpress and Rosie Napravnik.
As you can see its wide open this year and any team could be winning this year, personally I would be boring and side with the home team who look to have the most firepower. Back in second I would expect to be the ladies who have a marvellous book of rides amongst them.
Last week we managed to find two winners with our NAP being Urban Space and our first runner Sound Reflection who looks one to keep on your side. Our next best was just foiled with Duke Of Perth just denied close home but giving us a run for our money nonetheless. The other two were disappointments but we march on to this week with a few strong selections and a lot of confidence... Hopefully.
Martin is once again running a Pigeon Swoop open to everyone, just tweet your selections to @Pigeon_Island for the following races: Haydock 2:20 and 3:25 then Newmarket 3:00 and the 3:35. You can check your selections and other players at www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com for a bit of excitement to your afternoon.
One last mention before we crack on with this week's selections. This time last week we were wishing Siobhan Miller a speedy recovery after she broke her Collarbone in a fall at Goodwood. This week we wish Racheal Kneller a fast return after she broke her back in a fall from a 2 year old when riding out for Mark Usher. Please go and show her a bit of love and let her know we are all thinking of her as I know she isn't the biggest fan of hospitals. Send your get well messages to her twitter which is @Rachealkneller or you can leave me a message and I will make sure she receives it. Get well soon Racheal, hope to see you back on the track soon.
But now onto this week's action:
12:55 Ascot - Sam Sharp
Shergar Cup day can start off with one for the ladies here with Cathy Gannon on Sam Sharp for Ian Williams. Regular readers may know how highly I regard this horse and despite being a 7 year old he is in the form of his life and running off a career high mark. Just looking at his runs this year however is greatly encouraging, he started off as a very unlucky loser when flying home at Haydock. He then bolted in at York despite still finding a little bit of trouble when making his move, he was by far the best that day though. Most recently however he ran in a very strong race at Newmarket in which he found only Godolphin's Snowboarder too good. Even on that day he may have been the best horse as he was once again flying home but running out of time when the line came. This looks an easier race in truth and Sam Sharp is more than capable of winning from this mark of 93. Sam Sharp to get our day off to a flier. (5/1)
2:20 Haydock - Labarinto
I really fancied Labarinto on day one of Glorious Goodwood last week but the trip seemed a little on the short side possibly after being outpaced late on. He still managed a more than respectable 3rd that day behind the fast finishing Viewpoint under Richard Hughes and the tough Nabucco. On that form and from just a pound higher in the weights, this trip looks ideal for him and at the prices can give a bold show of himself. Again there is every possibility that this race is easier than last time and he wont need to find too much improvement to win a race of this standard. The danger could well come in the form of Ismail Mohammed's representative, Educate who has the eye catching jockey booking of Johnny Murtagh. Labarinto to get his big day here however. (8/1)
2:40 Ascot - Chesterfield
Chesterfield is another horse I hold in very high regard and at one point I thought he was a St Leger horse, but this is only his fourth outing today. On his seasonal reappearance he was beaten just 2 and a half lengths by the rapidly improving Maputo and has since improved for that run. His most recent win saw him battle brilliantly to get the better of Lady Pimpernel in a very good staying fashion. He was off the bridle every now and then for a couple of strides but instantly came back onto the bridle and came down the centre of the home straight to win. The runner up has franked the form by coming second on its next outing so the form has a nice look about it. Kevin Manning takes the ride for the home team which is a big positive with him riding out of his skin as of late. Chesterfield looks to hold the key to this race and can continue his improvement into a Group horse. (3/1)
3:25 Haydock - Expressly
A tough race here with a whole host of horses in with good chances but we go with the completely unexposed Expressly for Charlie Appleby. I was at Ascot to watch her debut and couldn't have been more impressed with her in everything she did that day. In a group of fairly nervous and babyish three year olds, she was the only one that was relaxed and behaved herself in the preliminaries. She then won with the minimum of fuss and was oh so impressive when travelling through the field hard on the bridle. The only worry then was that she may idle in front, that fear was put to bed as quickly as the race when Mickael Barzalona gave her a squeeze. Everything about her seems to point towards a top class filly, from breeding to the fact that Godolphin put her straight into a listed race after debut. Her step brother is the top class Rio De La Plata who is a well known name all throughout Europe. Expressly to show her class and use this as a stepping stone to bigger and better things. (5/1)
NAP - Sam Sharp
Nb - Expressly
Good luck today guys, a patent with Expressly, Chesterfield and Sam Sharp should return nicely.
Happy Punting!
As always there is fierce competition from the European team with the trio of Andrasch Starke, Ioritz Mendizabal and Gerald Mosse completing that team.
They are joined by the team from the Rest Of The World headed by Gary Stevens with Yasunari Iwata and Joao Moreira completing that side.
Last but not least we have the ladies who could well be springing a not so big surprise, unfortunately with Hayley Turner breaking her ankle she sacrifices her place. This means the team captain is the more than capable Cathy Gannon, she is joined by Lisa Allpress and Rosie Napravnik.
As you can see its wide open this year and any team could be winning this year, personally I would be boring and side with the home team who look to have the most firepower. Back in second I would expect to be the ladies who have a marvellous book of rides amongst them.
Last week we managed to find two winners with our NAP being Urban Space and our first runner Sound Reflection who looks one to keep on your side. Our next best was just foiled with Duke Of Perth just denied close home but giving us a run for our money nonetheless. The other two were disappointments but we march on to this week with a few strong selections and a lot of confidence... Hopefully.
Martin is once again running a Pigeon Swoop open to everyone, just tweet your selections to @Pigeon_Island for the following races: Haydock 2:20 and 3:25 then Newmarket 3:00 and the 3:35. You can check your selections and other players at www.pigeonscoop4.wordpress.com for a bit of excitement to your afternoon.
One last mention before we crack on with this week's selections. This time last week we were wishing Siobhan Miller a speedy recovery after she broke her Collarbone in a fall at Goodwood. This week we wish Racheal Kneller a fast return after she broke her back in a fall from a 2 year old when riding out for Mark Usher. Please go and show her a bit of love and let her know we are all thinking of her as I know she isn't the biggest fan of hospitals. Send your get well messages to her twitter which is @Rachealkneller or you can leave me a message and I will make sure she receives it. Get well soon Racheal, hope to see you back on the track soon.
But now onto this week's action:
12:55 Ascot - Sam Sharp
Shergar Cup day can start off with one for the ladies here with Cathy Gannon on Sam Sharp for Ian Williams. Regular readers may know how highly I regard this horse and despite being a 7 year old he is in the form of his life and running off a career high mark. Just looking at his runs this year however is greatly encouraging, he started off as a very unlucky loser when flying home at Haydock. He then bolted in at York despite still finding a little bit of trouble when making his move, he was by far the best that day though. Most recently however he ran in a very strong race at Newmarket in which he found only Godolphin's Snowboarder too good. Even on that day he may have been the best horse as he was once again flying home but running out of time when the line came. This looks an easier race in truth and Sam Sharp is more than capable of winning from this mark of 93. Sam Sharp to get our day off to a flier. (5/1)
2:20 Haydock - Labarinto
I really fancied Labarinto on day one of Glorious Goodwood last week but the trip seemed a little on the short side possibly after being outpaced late on. He still managed a more than respectable 3rd that day behind the fast finishing Viewpoint under Richard Hughes and the tough Nabucco. On that form and from just a pound higher in the weights, this trip looks ideal for him and at the prices can give a bold show of himself. Again there is every possibility that this race is easier than last time and he wont need to find too much improvement to win a race of this standard. The danger could well come in the form of Ismail Mohammed's representative, Educate who has the eye catching jockey booking of Johnny Murtagh. Labarinto to get his big day here however. (8/1)
2:40 Ascot - Chesterfield
Chesterfield is another horse I hold in very high regard and at one point I thought he was a St Leger horse, but this is only his fourth outing today. On his seasonal reappearance he was beaten just 2 and a half lengths by the rapidly improving Maputo and has since improved for that run. His most recent win saw him battle brilliantly to get the better of Lady Pimpernel in a very good staying fashion. He was off the bridle every now and then for a couple of strides but instantly came back onto the bridle and came down the centre of the home straight to win. The runner up has franked the form by coming second on its next outing so the form has a nice look about it. Kevin Manning takes the ride for the home team which is a big positive with him riding out of his skin as of late. Chesterfield looks to hold the key to this race and can continue his improvement into a Group horse. (3/1)
3:25 Haydock - Expressly
A tough race here with a whole host of horses in with good chances but we go with the completely unexposed Expressly for Charlie Appleby. I was at Ascot to watch her debut and couldn't have been more impressed with her in everything she did that day. In a group of fairly nervous and babyish three year olds, she was the only one that was relaxed and behaved herself in the preliminaries. She then won with the minimum of fuss and was oh so impressive when travelling through the field hard on the bridle. The only worry then was that she may idle in front, that fear was put to bed as quickly as the race when Mickael Barzalona gave her a squeeze. Everything about her seems to point towards a top class filly, from breeding to the fact that Godolphin put her straight into a listed race after debut. Her step brother is the top class Rio De La Plata who is a well known name all throughout Europe. Expressly to show her class and use this as a stepping stone to bigger and better things. (5/1)
NAP - Sam Sharp
Nb - Expressly
Good luck today guys, a patent with Expressly, Chesterfield and Sam Sharp should return nicely.
Happy Punting!
Friday, 2 August 2013
Saturday 3rd August
Good Morning racing fans, I hope you are all well and your wallets haven't been too damaged by Glorious Goodwood this week. If it has, lets try and get out of that slump today, although it looks a tough day of betting in all honesty.
Last week we had a tough time of things but managed to save the day with a place at 7/1 from Grandeur, he looks a definite Group 1 performer now. Even more importantly, Glen Moss grabbed fourth for us at 25/1 to help us out as well, I also grabbed Galician at 33/1 who won that race, not on the blog unfortunately. We have had a few winners here throughout the week at Glorious Goodwood as well, they were capped off with Instance yesterday. She was potentially an unlucky loser as she took the brave route up the rail and ended up following the winner through, at 40/1 though, im not complaining.
Onto today and as I have already said, its a very hard day of racing to look at winners, most of the selections you will find today are at Newmarket instead of the main meeting of the day.
One last thing, after Siobhan Miller had her first ride at Glorious Goodwood on David Simcock's, Mean It, she had a fall after the line. This ended in her receiving treatment behind the screens for quite some time and she was then taken to Hospital. News broke yesterday that she had broken her collar bone, we wish her a speedy recovery and we also wish Racheal Kneller good luck in her first Glorious Goodwood ride today.
But onto todays racing!
1:45 Newmarket - Sound Reflection
A Godolphin newcomer to start with today at a track that the boys in blue do so well with their 2 year old's and especially their first time out runners. Mickael Barzalona is booked to ride as well, a jockey who excels with inexperienced horses and rides the July course especially well. All that is needed is the horse to be useful, that certainly looks the case with this son of Street Cry who in time may need a bit further, but for now this is perfect. Also in his family is the top class Nathaniel who will need no introduction. One for Godolphin to start off our weekends here. (No Price Yet)
3:15 Goodwood - Beatrice Aurore
One at a nice price now for the Nassau and an interesting one at that for the very eye catching jockey booking of Olivier Peslier. Last time out she stripped a lot fitter than her reappearance at Epsom and despite being fourth was only three parts of a length behind the winner Duntle. The hood is reached for first time which could help over this longer distance which she tries for the first time since her run in the Oaks. She posted a much better effort last time and this trip could bring her on again as she may have been caught for toe late on. Its a very hard race but she could improve over the trip and looks to hold a good each way chance at a working man's price. The biggest danger in my mind is Integral who looks a class act based on her two outings so far. Beatrice Aurore to spring an upset though. (28/1)
3:30 Newmarket - Urban Dance
Another one for the boys in blue here with Charlie Appleby's Urban Dance after a taking debut when still running very green. It took a while for the penny to drop but once it did he made up ground easily and will be all the better for that run. A very strong pace would benefit him greatly as it looks like he will appreciate a mile and a half in time, he will be staying on strongly. Despite all his other rivals this afternoon being much more experienced, his three year old allowance can help him out no end. His official opening rating is 90 but the three year old allowance allows him to run off of 81 today. Urban Dance to make it two from two. (11/4)
3:55 Newton Abbot - Toubab
Back to National Hunt racing now with Paul Nicholls' Toubab who loves faster ground and at the end of last season was going the right way. At the back end of the season he won off a mark of 140, with Harry Derham's 5 pound claim his rating today is 139 and this is a much easier race. Toubab is a horse full of speed, but can be found wanting when coming under pressure, he looks head and shoulders over these rivals today though. Newton Abbot could well be the perfect course for him as well as it is known as a tight track, the fast ground is a great help as well. His jumping wont be an issue and the biggest danger looks to be fellow top weight Anquetta, from the Nicky Henderson yard. Toubab to land the battle of Nicholls and Henderson this time. (10/3)
4:40 Newmarket - Nave
David Simcock's representative has been a non runner countless amounts of times lately, but has refound his form recently. Those last two wins came off a rating of 67, the latter of them came with a 6 pound penalty so really a rating of 73. Even from 7 pounds higher than that he can take another step forward through landing this race this afternoon. It is a stronger race tomorrow, but he could still be well handicapped, but like I say he will need to improve once more as he still has 11 pounds on his old mark. Nave to land this for Team Simcock. (4/1)
4:45 Doncaster - Duke Of Perth
The last selection today is Luca Cumani's, Duke Of Perth ridden by Kirsty Milczarek. He is one that has been a bit unlucky in the past when bumping in to one each time, his last run was no different. Kieren Fallon was on that time when going down to Lady Cecil's progressive horse, Venue by two lengths over this trip. That was his first try at this distance and it wasn't the trip that beat him, it was just the fact that he bumped into one again. Even from a rating two pounds higher, he does look a better horse than this rating suggests and can prove his stamina. Duke Of Perth to round off the day in style. (7/1)
NAP - Urban Dance
Nb - Duke Of Perth
Good luck today guys! As always happy punting!
Last week we had a tough time of things but managed to save the day with a place at 7/1 from Grandeur, he looks a definite Group 1 performer now. Even more importantly, Glen Moss grabbed fourth for us at 25/1 to help us out as well, I also grabbed Galician at 33/1 who won that race, not on the blog unfortunately. We have had a few winners here throughout the week at Glorious Goodwood as well, they were capped off with Instance yesterday. She was potentially an unlucky loser as she took the brave route up the rail and ended up following the winner through, at 40/1 though, im not complaining.
Onto today and as I have already said, its a very hard day of racing to look at winners, most of the selections you will find today are at Newmarket instead of the main meeting of the day.
One last thing, after Siobhan Miller had her first ride at Glorious Goodwood on David Simcock's, Mean It, she had a fall after the line. This ended in her receiving treatment behind the screens for quite some time and she was then taken to Hospital. News broke yesterday that she had broken her collar bone, we wish her a speedy recovery and we also wish Racheal Kneller good luck in her first Glorious Goodwood ride today.
But onto todays racing!
1:45 Newmarket - Sound Reflection
A Godolphin newcomer to start with today at a track that the boys in blue do so well with their 2 year old's and especially their first time out runners. Mickael Barzalona is booked to ride as well, a jockey who excels with inexperienced horses and rides the July course especially well. All that is needed is the horse to be useful, that certainly looks the case with this son of Street Cry who in time may need a bit further, but for now this is perfect. Also in his family is the top class Nathaniel who will need no introduction. One for Godolphin to start off our weekends here. (No Price Yet)
3:15 Goodwood - Beatrice Aurore
One at a nice price now for the Nassau and an interesting one at that for the very eye catching jockey booking of Olivier Peslier. Last time out she stripped a lot fitter than her reappearance at Epsom and despite being fourth was only three parts of a length behind the winner Duntle. The hood is reached for first time which could help over this longer distance which she tries for the first time since her run in the Oaks. She posted a much better effort last time and this trip could bring her on again as she may have been caught for toe late on. Its a very hard race but she could improve over the trip and looks to hold a good each way chance at a working man's price. The biggest danger in my mind is Integral who looks a class act based on her two outings so far. Beatrice Aurore to spring an upset though. (28/1)
3:30 Newmarket - Urban Dance
Another one for the boys in blue here with Charlie Appleby's Urban Dance after a taking debut when still running very green. It took a while for the penny to drop but once it did he made up ground easily and will be all the better for that run. A very strong pace would benefit him greatly as it looks like he will appreciate a mile and a half in time, he will be staying on strongly. Despite all his other rivals this afternoon being much more experienced, his three year old allowance can help him out no end. His official opening rating is 90 but the three year old allowance allows him to run off of 81 today. Urban Dance to make it two from two. (11/4)
3:55 Newton Abbot - Toubab
Back to National Hunt racing now with Paul Nicholls' Toubab who loves faster ground and at the end of last season was going the right way. At the back end of the season he won off a mark of 140, with Harry Derham's 5 pound claim his rating today is 139 and this is a much easier race. Toubab is a horse full of speed, but can be found wanting when coming under pressure, he looks head and shoulders over these rivals today though. Newton Abbot could well be the perfect course for him as well as it is known as a tight track, the fast ground is a great help as well. His jumping wont be an issue and the biggest danger looks to be fellow top weight Anquetta, from the Nicky Henderson yard. Toubab to land the battle of Nicholls and Henderson this time. (10/3)
4:40 Newmarket - Nave
David Simcock's representative has been a non runner countless amounts of times lately, but has refound his form recently. Those last two wins came off a rating of 67, the latter of them came with a 6 pound penalty so really a rating of 73. Even from 7 pounds higher than that he can take another step forward through landing this race this afternoon. It is a stronger race tomorrow, but he could still be well handicapped, but like I say he will need to improve once more as he still has 11 pounds on his old mark. Nave to land this for Team Simcock. (4/1)
4:45 Doncaster - Duke Of Perth
The last selection today is Luca Cumani's, Duke Of Perth ridden by Kirsty Milczarek. He is one that has been a bit unlucky in the past when bumping in to one each time, his last run was no different. Kieren Fallon was on that time when going down to Lady Cecil's progressive horse, Venue by two lengths over this trip. That was his first try at this distance and it wasn't the trip that beat him, it was just the fact that he bumped into one again. Even from a rating two pounds higher, he does look a better horse than this rating suggests and can prove his stamina. Duke Of Perth to round off the day in style. (7/1)
NAP - Urban Dance
Nb - Duke Of Perth
Good luck today guys! As always happy punting!
Thursday, 1 August 2013
Glorious Goodwood Day Four
1:55 Goodwood - Forgotten Voice
The eyecatching jocking booking here is Johnny Murtagh for Nicky Henderson after they teamed up to win at the Royal meeting to win the Wolferton. That came off the back of a pretty successful novice season over hurdles, but he is a more than classy individual on the level. He takes a step back into Group company tomorrow which looks by no means beyond him even at the age of 8. One thing that is essential to Forgotten Voice is that he needs the ground to be lightning fast, two days ago he wouldnt have got that. Thankfully, Goodwood is one of the fastest draining tracks as the track is on top of chalk, after a red hot day yesterday and a dry one today, the ground will be perfect. Nicky Henderson can have a Group winner here with the talented Forgotten Voice. (5/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Glory Awaits
It would be fantastic to see Glory Awaits win here for Kevin Ryan after such a consistent season after an outstanding 2nd at 150/1 in the 2000 Guineas. That day was in first time blinkers and he ran an admirable race next time out in the St James' Palace when fifth in a stronger race. Today they take the blinkers off and replace them with first time cheekpieces to freshen him up a bit and more importantly, improve him. Unfortunately there is no Jamie Spencer today as he is retained onto Anna's Pearl, this means Neil Callan steps in for the ride. Despite it being a tough race today, it is arguably the easiest race all season for him, a reproduction of this seasons form could be enough. Glory Awaits to get his well deserved moment in the sun. (6/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Sirius Prospect
I have to admit that Sirius Prospect is somewhat a cliff horse for me and he finally came good again last week at York. He looked a bit more like his old self that day when out battle Smarty Socks, but he could have been called the winner from a furlong out. The main worry from most people is that a mile isnt his strongest trip, that may have been the case this time last year for sure. But this season, especially last time he looked liked a mile would be right up his street after running all the way to the line. The only unknown is the course and how he will handle it, but we wont know about that until tomorrow and the draw may not be the best for him. Saying that, there have been a few high draw winners this week so its not the biggest of worries. Sirius Prospect to reward followers again. (25/1)
3:40 Goodwood - Masamah
This race had me scratching my head for some time, but after managing to discount a few of them I came to the past winner Masamah. He ticks all the right boxes and as a younger horse had real potential which never really came to the fore. However he took a huge step forward when winning a big Ascot handicap last time out in cheek pieces, that latter may be a key point. His form when running in cheek pieces is as follows, fifth in a listed race behind Sole Power before winning last time out. They stay on this time and he looks to hold a huge chance as a course and distance winner and gets the nod for the fast 5 furlongs. Masamah to provide Neil Callan with a big race double. (12/1)
4:15 Goodwood - Grecian
Grecian made a likeable debut when winning at Kempton for today's rider, Jim Crowley who rides Goodwood very well. Last time out at Ascot he was a bit too keen for his own good but stayed on to good effect late on to just be denied. That run would suggest that Goodwood will be perfect for him, the straight course is one of the fastest in the world and he looks to be an improving horse. Grecian runs today off a mark of 83 which looks lenient and has the potential to be so much better. With a fast run 6 furlongs today, almost at a break neck speed, it will take a very good horse to beat him today. Grecian to land the nursery. (8/1)
4:50 Goodwood - Instance
A somewhat interesting choice I think you will agree here as Instance is on a mark well below the protagonists here and has to give weight for age. She will need a personal best here, but last time was a very encouraging run that she is a great deal better than her mark suggests. That was her seasonal reappearance and it came in a much stronger race than today, ahead of her that day was a strong list of horses. These include the winner Producer, Pastoral Player and Red Jazz, however she still beat home Libranno that day and just like Grecian will benefit from a very fast pace. Instance to cause an upset for the in form Jeremy Noseda yard. (33/1)
5:25 Goodwood - Couloir Extreme
The lucky last can go to the rapidly improving Couloir Extreme from the locally trained yard of Gary Moore. He had a breathing operation at the start of this year which has bought along endless improvement as a result. He started off with a good fourth at this track which he followed up with a good second at Brighton behind Duroble Man who has gone on to improve again. After them two runs he notched up a quick double at Windsor, the first of which easy as you like, they then ran him under a penalty. He went in again but not as impressive and the break will have done him some good and freshened him up a treat. He is today running off a mark of 80 but more improvement could well come and he is a bit over priced in truth. A market check will be very informative with this one. Couloir Extreme to land the lucky last. (14/1)
NAP - Grecian
Nb - Couloir Extreme
Good luck and as always, Happy Punting!
The eyecatching jocking booking here is Johnny Murtagh for Nicky Henderson after they teamed up to win at the Royal meeting to win the Wolferton. That came off the back of a pretty successful novice season over hurdles, but he is a more than classy individual on the level. He takes a step back into Group company tomorrow which looks by no means beyond him even at the age of 8. One thing that is essential to Forgotten Voice is that he needs the ground to be lightning fast, two days ago he wouldnt have got that. Thankfully, Goodwood is one of the fastest draining tracks as the track is on top of chalk, after a red hot day yesterday and a dry one today, the ground will be perfect. Nicky Henderson can have a Group winner here with the talented Forgotten Voice. (5/1)
2:30 Goodwood - Glory Awaits
It would be fantastic to see Glory Awaits win here for Kevin Ryan after such a consistent season after an outstanding 2nd at 150/1 in the 2000 Guineas. That day was in first time blinkers and he ran an admirable race next time out in the St James' Palace when fifth in a stronger race. Today they take the blinkers off and replace them with first time cheekpieces to freshen him up a bit and more importantly, improve him. Unfortunately there is no Jamie Spencer today as he is retained onto Anna's Pearl, this means Neil Callan steps in for the ride. Despite it being a tough race today, it is arguably the easiest race all season for him, a reproduction of this seasons form could be enough. Glory Awaits to get his well deserved moment in the sun. (6/1)
3:05 Goodwood - Sirius Prospect
I have to admit that Sirius Prospect is somewhat a cliff horse for me and he finally came good again last week at York. He looked a bit more like his old self that day when out battle Smarty Socks, but he could have been called the winner from a furlong out. The main worry from most people is that a mile isnt his strongest trip, that may have been the case this time last year for sure. But this season, especially last time he looked liked a mile would be right up his street after running all the way to the line. The only unknown is the course and how he will handle it, but we wont know about that until tomorrow and the draw may not be the best for him. Saying that, there have been a few high draw winners this week so its not the biggest of worries. Sirius Prospect to reward followers again. (25/1)
3:40 Goodwood - Masamah
This race had me scratching my head for some time, but after managing to discount a few of them I came to the past winner Masamah. He ticks all the right boxes and as a younger horse had real potential which never really came to the fore. However he took a huge step forward when winning a big Ascot handicap last time out in cheek pieces, that latter may be a key point. His form when running in cheek pieces is as follows, fifth in a listed race behind Sole Power before winning last time out. They stay on this time and he looks to hold a huge chance as a course and distance winner and gets the nod for the fast 5 furlongs. Masamah to provide Neil Callan with a big race double. (12/1)
4:15 Goodwood - Grecian
Grecian made a likeable debut when winning at Kempton for today's rider, Jim Crowley who rides Goodwood very well. Last time out at Ascot he was a bit too keen for his own good but stayed on to good effect late on to just be denied. That run would suggest that Goodwood will be perfect for him, the straight course is one of the fastest in the world and he looks to be an improving horse. Grecian runs today off a mark of 83 which looks lenient and has the potential to be so much better. With a fast run 6 furlongs today, almost at a break neck speed, it will take a very good horse to beat him today. Grecian to land the nursery. (8/1)
4:50 Goodwood - Instance
A somewhat interesting choice I think you will agree here as Instance is on a mark well below the protagonists here and has to give weight for age. She will need a personal best here, but last time was a very encouraging run that she is a great deal better than her mark suggests. That was her seasonal reappearance and it came in a much stronger race than today, ahead of her that day was a strong list of horses. These include the winner Producer, Pastoral Player and Red Jazz, however she still beat home Libranno that day and just like Grecian will benefit from a very fast pace. Instance to cause an upset for the in form Jeremy Noseda yard. (33/1)
5:25 Goodwood - Couloir Extreme
The lucky last can go to the rapidly improving Couloir Extreme from the locally trained yard of Gary Moore. He had a breathing operation at the start of this year which has bought along endless improvement as a result. He started off with a good fourth at this track which he followed up with a good second at Brighton behind Duroble Man who has gone on to improve again. After them two runs he notched up a quick double at Windsor, the first of which easy as you like, they then ran him under a penalty. He went in again but not as impressive and the break will have done him some good and freshened him up a treat. He is today running off a mark of 80 but more improvement could well come and he is a bit over priced in truth. A market check will be very informative with this one. Couloir Extreme to land the lucky last. (14/1)
NAP - Grecian
Nb - Couloir Extreme
Good luck and as always, Happy Punting!
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