Good morning/evening everyone! It was another profitable last weekend... Just, as Mecca's Angel was victorious although she was hit with a hefty Rule 4. First Flight also won us some each way money although it could have been better after Kikonga and Halation disappointed in the evening. Today brings around a new set of horses though and with it another good weekend of racing as the Cambridgeshire meeting peaks at Newmarket.
As always we have a new preview video prepared for you as we discuss the action on Channel 4 this afternoon including the Cambridgeshire. Joining me on the panel is @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell and you can follow us on twitter through @OnTheOtherHoof. We hope you enjoy the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjfarktWZ98&feature=youtu.be
Now onto the all important selections!
2:15 Market Rasen - Mijhaar
We start proceedings off today with our only visit to Market Rasen courtesy of Mijhaar who's season never really got going last year, but finished it with promise.
He also started his hurdling career with promise when winning a Novice Hurdle at Doncaster with the minimum of fuss by seven lengths, admittedly he didn't beat a strong field but it was more the manner of his victory that impressed. Unfortunately he took a few steps back on his second try over hurdles when falling at Huntingdon at the last, however he was well held at the time. Denis O'Regan was very forceful on him that day and in truth he probably went too fast on ground that was too soft for him. That record was put straight at Aintree when he finished fifth behind Josses Hill in the Top Novices Hurdle, that was back on faster ground which seems pretty key to his chances.
He will get that ground today at Market Rasen and opens up his handicapping career off a mark of 139 which could be lenient after carrying a highest flat rating of 109. AP McCoy takes the ride this afternoon and John Ferguson's string has been in fine form so far this season which Mijhaar is taken to continue. (5/1)
2:35 Newmarket - Elm Park
A victory for Andrew Balding's representative, Elm Park would be a fitting tribute to his uncle and racing legend Toby Balding who sadly passed away earlier this week.
Elm Park has been steadily progressing this season after an encouraging debut at Sandown when third behind Latharnach, who is considered a 2000 Guineas contender next season. He lost his Maiden tag on only his second attempt at Newbury, beating a good field in the process which included recent winner Acolyte. There was no doubt that he was destined for bigger and better things that afternoon, something he confirmed when landing the Listed Stonehenge Stakes at Salisbury last time out. Under David Probert he made all that day when beating a strong field by three lengths and going away near the finish, something which earned a go at a Group 2 today.
He was also engaged in the Solario at Sandown the day after winning at Salisbury, which shows how highly rated he is after that race was won by Kingman last season. The only negative I can find is that he may be a bit better over further in time but for now a mile is just right for him and is taken to win again. (3/1)
3:10 Newmarket - Tiggy Wiggy
I am never really one to go in too heavily on a short priced favourite however, I feel that Tiggy Wiggy should be heavily odds on today, which at the time of writing he isn't.
She is a two year old filly that needs absolutely no introduction after the success she has achieved this season through winning five of her seven starts. The improvement she has shown in her last two appearances is the most impressive thing however after tasting defeat at Royal Ascot. That came over five furlongs in the Queen Mary behind Anthem Alexander who she has since beaten at York over a furlong further. She followed up that narrow disappointment by blitzing the field at Newbury in the Super Sprint which came as a surprise to some people, despite being a short priced favourite. After that she was touted as a live contender for the Nunthorpe, but connections decided to tackle the Lowther and get their revenge on Anthem Alexander, which she did impressively with Cursory Glance splitting the two.
Her form as you can see is about as good as they come, but the reason for putting her up is based more on the negatives that can be found in her rivals. Anthem Alexander was the horse who impressed me most at Royal Ascot and I have masses of respect for Eddie Lynam however, she looks an out and out five furlong horse and proved it last time behind Tiggy Wiggy. The chief danger may come in the form of High Celebrity who was beaten on the July Course by Arabian Queen, although the latter got a sublime ride from Ryan Moore that day. Andre Fabre's filly has since won a Group 3 in France and despite that coming over five and a half furlongs she will likely need much further. Tendu is the only other one to mention as she won impressively at Kempton but has a lot to prove in this class of race. Tiggy Wiggy to continue her improvement and land her first Group One. (11/10)
3:50 Newmarket - Gabrial's Kaka
After hitting my head against a wall for a couple of hours I finally landed on Gabrial's Kaka in the Cambridgeshire. Richard Fahey has had his representative in fine fettle this season so far and has been rewarded with a string of consistent efforts.
He started off the season with a sixth in the Lincoln which is by no means a bad effort considering he had Ocean Tempest and Tullius ahead of him. That run was built on next time out as he won a competitive handicap at Newbury and looked a much improved horse in the process. Things haven't gone to plan since then but he has looked to be refinding the winning thread on his last two outings which started at Sandown. Frankie Dettori rode him that day and it would be one of his rides he would want back after giving him a lot to do when turning for home. Despite that he still managed to run on for third behind Velox who re-opposes this afternoon and is fancied with Cam Hardie on board. Last time out was equally as encouraging when staying on after being outpaced at York, he could only repair part of the damage as he stayed on into fifth place, but the extra furlong will help today. (25/1)
NAP - Elm Park
Nb - Tiggy Wiggy
Good luck today guys and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 26 September 2014
Friday, 19 September 2014
Every Time A Bell Rings
Good morning/evening to you all, I hope we have recovered from the excitement of last week and are ready for another good weekend of racing. We had a successful day last weekend when both Muthmir and Marmalady won before Kings Fete disappointed and Bronze Angel was narrowly denied. We hope to carry forward that form into this week but it looks a bit harder this time around, nonetheless we shall give it a go!
As always we have a video preview prepared for tomorrow's racing as we cover all of Channel 4's action which comes from Newbury and Ayr. Joining me on the panel this week are @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell. If you would like to tweet your questions or fancies into the show then you can tweet our new twitter page on @OnTheOtherHoof, while you are there why not give us a follow? Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch81C3ZqW_g&feature=youtu.be - Live at 8pm
Now onto the all important selections!
2:55 Newbury - First Flight
We start today off with an 18 runner handicap, so you could say that we are starting off slowly and easing into the harder races... Ahem. First Flight is the selection however and if you are a regular reader of this blog then you will know that I am a big fan of his since a taking debut as a two year old.
He had been a bit unlucky in the early part of this year as he encountered bottomless conditions on his first two outings, but to his credit he still ran well enough on both occasions. Finally he got some faster ground at Royal Ascot but along with that he also got the worst draw possible and was readily outpaced over a mile, despite all that he stayed on for a promising ninth in the Britannia. He then stepped up in trip at Newmarket to today's distance where he duly obliged after being strongly backed into favouritism.
Since then he has been beaten at Goodwood which was a run that baffled me as everything seemed to be in his favour once more, albeit over a furlong less. To the naked eye he looked a non stayer that day which clearly isn't true after his Newmarket win, but he stopped alarmingly inside the final furlong. It could just be that there was an underlying problem that afternoon and it has clearly been corrected after a 27 day break. With the ground seemingly no problem this afternoon and a key three year old allowance, we will side with First Flight to get us off to a flyer with his second victory of the season. (14/1)
3:30 Newbury - Mecca's Angel
This seasons breakthrough sprinter has undoubtedly been the three year old Mecca's Angel after winning a handicap off a mark of 95 just three runs ago. She has shown great improvement since that day and in her two runs since has won a Conditions race and the Listed Scarborough Stakes at Doncaster.
This is another step up in class but on her latest performance in Listed company she could be too good for these once more. There was a worry about the ground being too fast that day which she proved wrong, but after sufficient rain at Newbury yesterday she will adore the ground. Despite her last run only being in Listed race, it was about as good a Listed race as you will find with the likes or Reckless Abandon and Steps chasing home her shadow.
Paul Mulrennan would usually be in the saddle, but as he switches to Moviesta the ride is taken today by Paul Hanagan, which is no negative. There were rumours that Meccas Angel will go to the Abbaye in France, and it could just be that they are using today as a stepping stone to keep her fit, however it is just as likely that this will be her last run this season. I would be disappointed if Meccas Angel were to be beaten today and she can earn her wings today (which completes today's blog title). (9/4)
5:25 Newmarket - Kikonga
The in form Luca Cumani has an interesting one here in Kikonga who runs in the same colours as Silk Sari who won a Group 2 for connections last week. The yard remains in good form on the whole with a double at Yarmouth on Thursday and they bring three horses to Newmarket today.
Kikonga has found life a bit tough lately due to her own success early on in her career but she has shown signs of a resurgence recently. Her handicap mark has slowly been dropping through a couple of poor runs and despite only finishing seventh last time, showed that the fire still burns. To make life easier she is partnered by Louis Steward who takes off a valuable five pounds and puts her level to her last winning mark and should be going close today. (10/1)
8:20 Wolverhampton - Halation
A rare visit to Wolverhampton now but first I have to commend them on their new Tapeta surface which has looked fantastic in the early days. Saying that, it did need it as the old surface was getting borderline dangerous, but now that it has been resolved I can see many more trainers supporting the course.
David Simcock is one of those trainers supporting them, however it will be impossible for him to match his success last week after Sheikhzayedroad and Trade Storm both won Grade One's at Woodbine. Halation can help keep the winners coming though after making good progress for Marco Botti before being purchased by Qatar Racing and sent to Trillium Place. He made a brilliant debut for the yard as he made a competitive field look ordinary at Sandown including Master The World who overturned the form at York. The race could not have been run to suit Halation less as they didn't particularly go a strong pace and he needs a break neck gallop from the outset.
He also steps up in trip to nine and a half furlongs for the first time which should suit him with a couple of pace angles in the race. Halation is also the second selection of the day that benefits from the five pound allowance that three year olds are allowed in these handicaps, although the majority of them are three year olds. We side with Halation to get the day rounded off in style for David Simcock and Jamie Spencer. (6/1)
NAP - Meccas Angel
Nb - First Flight
Good luck guys and as always, happy punting!
As always we have a video preview prepared for tomorrow's racing as we cover all of Channel 4's action which comes from Newbury and Ayr. Joining me on the panel this week are @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell. If you would like to tweet your questions or fancies into the show then you can tweet our new twitter page on @OnTheOtherHoof, while you are there why not give us a follow? Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch81C3ZqW_g&feature=youtu.be - Live at 8pm
Now onto the all important selections!
2:55 Newbury - First Flight
We start today off with an 18 runner handicap, so you could say that we are starting off slowly and easing into the harder races... Ahem. First Flight is the selection however and if you are a regular reader of this blog then you will know that I am a big fan of his since a taking debut as a two year old.
He had been a bit unlucky in the early part of this year as he encountered bottomless conditions on his first two outings, but to his credit he still ran well enough on both occasions. Finally he got some faster ground at Royal Ascot but along with that he also got the worst draw possible and was readily outpaced over a mile, despite all that he stayed on for a promising ninth in the Britannia. He then stepped up in trip at Newmarket to today's distance where he duly obliged after being strongly backed into favouritism.
Since then he has been beaten at Goodwood which was a run that baffled me as everything seemed to be in his favour once more, albeit over a furlong less. To the naked eye he looked a non stayer that day which clearly isn't true after his Newmarket win, but he stopped alarmingly inside the final furlong. It could just be that there was an underlying problem that afternoon and it has clearly been corrected after a 27 day break. With the ground seemingly no problem this afternoon and a key three year old allowance, we will side with First Flight to get us off to a flyer with his second victory of the season. (14/1)
3:30 Newbury - Mecca's Angel
This seasons breakthrough sprinter has undoubtedly been the three year old Mecca's Angel after winning a handicap off a mark of 95 just three runs ago. She has shown great improvement since that day and in her two runs since has won a Conditions race and the Listed Scarborough Stakes at Doncaster.
This is another step up in class but on her latest performance in Listed company she could be too good for these once more. There was a worry about the ground being too fast that day which she proved wrong, but after sufficient rain at Newbury yesterday she will adore the ground. Despite her last run only being in Listed race, it was about as good a Listed race as you will find with the likes or Reckless Abandon and Steps chasing home her shadow.
Paul Mulrennan would usually be in the saddle, but as he switches to Moviesta the ride is taken today by Paul Hanagan, which is no negative. There were rumours that Meccas Angel will go to the Abbaye in France, and it could just be that they are using today as a stepping stone to keep her fit, however it is just as likely that this will be her last run this season. I would be disappointed if Meccas Angel were to be beaten today and she can earn her wings today (which completes today's blog title). (9/4)
5:25 Newmarket - Kikonga
The in form Luca Cumani has an interesting one here in Kikonga who runs in the same colours as Silk Sari who won a Group 2 for connections last week. The yard remains in good form on the whole with a double at Yarmouth on Thursday and they bring three horses to Newmarket today.
Kikonga has found life a bit tough lately due to her own success early on in her career but she has shown signs of a resurgence recently. Her handicap mark has slowly been dropping through a couple of poor runs and despite only finishing seventh last time, showed that the fire still burns. To make life easier she is partnered by Louis Steward who takes off a valuable five pounds and puts her level to her last winning mark and should be going close today. (10/1)
8:20 Wolverhampton - Halation
A rare visit to Wolverhampton now but first I have to commend them on their new Tapeta surface which has looked fantastic in the early days. Saying that, it did need it as the old surface was getting borderline dangerous, but now that it has been resolved I can see many more trainers supporting the course.
David Simcock is one of those trainers supporting them, however it will be impossible for him to match his success last week after Sheikhzayedroad and Trade Storm both won Grade One's at Woodbine. Halation can help keep the winners coming though after making good progress for Marco Botti before being purchased by Qatar Racing and sent to Trillium Place. He made a brilliant debut for the yard as he made a competitive field look ordinary at Sandown including Master The World who overturned the form at York. The race could not have been run to suit Halation less as they didn't particularly go a strong pace and he needs a break neck gallop from the outset.
He also steps up in trip to nine and a half furlongs for the first time which should suit him with a couple of pace angles in the race. Halation is also the second selection of the day that benefits from the five pound allowance that three year olds are allowed in these handicaps, although the majority of them are three year olds. We side with Halation to get the day rounded off in style for David Simcock and Jamie Spencer. (6/1)
NAP - Meccas Angel
Nb - First Flight
Good luck guys and as always, happy punting!
Wednesday, 17 September 2014
National Hunt Horses To Follow 14/15
The flat season is almost at an end and with the National Hunt season rapidly approaching we turn our attentions the the other code. Below I have compiled a list of 15 horses that I feel are worth following throughout the coming season and ones that will more than pay their way.
I have also divided them into different divisions with some more confident than others as you will see, however I have tried to limit each section to two or three horses, but that is easier said than done!
Before we get into the horses to follow I will just have to promote a few interviews I conducted on behalf of BetRacingNation. Among the links below you will find an interview with Jamie Moore who gave us the latest on Sire De Grugy and the rest of the string, some of which you shall spot in our list of horses. Nick Scholfield also gave us the low down on some of Paul Nicholls' string including one of last year's top novices Irving. Last but not least I spoke to up and coming northern trainer Rebecca Menzies who introduced us to her stable and some of her star horses this season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMHrsidJZzM - Jamie Moore interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZw0iOTWVR8 - Nick Scholfield interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2SjQn6xyOE Rebecca Menzies interview
Now onto the all important horses to follow for this season.
We start off our list with one of the more obvious ones in the shape of last year's Neptune winner Faugheen, who looks to be targeted at the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
He answered all his critics last year despite still taking a few liberties in the jumping department, most notably when taking the third and second last hurdles with him at Cheltenham. He was much better at Punchestown when stepping down to two miles, and it has long been my theory that his jumping improves when he is allowed to set a strong pace, which will be needed if he wants to stake his claims in Grade One events over two miles.
In recent years the Neptune has been a similarly successful source of future Champion Hurdle horses than that of the Supreme, with Rock On Ruby and The New One flying the flag. Faugheen however looks to have a lot more speed than the aforementioned duo, but also has enough stamina to win over three miles, which is an extremely rare combination and quite a potent one at that.
With the likes of Vautour and Un De Sceaux going chasing, and Hurricane Fly stepping up in trip it seems that Faugheen is the only one to fly the flag in the two mile division for the dominant Willie Mullins. He is generally a 5/1 chance for the Champion Hurdle but in my mind as long as he gets there he will be winning, famous last words eh!!
Beat That - 6 - OR 154
Number two on our hurdlers list is a bit more of a tentative one, not because he lacks ability but because he may still end up chasing. At this moment in time he seems to be staying hurdling but the decision largely revolves around More Of That and if he tackles the big obstacles.
More Of That was obviously very impressive when winning the World Hurdle last season, but I wouldn't be put off of Beat That when taking him on. I first saw Nicky Henderson's inmate at Ascot last year and without being rude he really didn't look anything special, so I was sufficiently shocked when he bolted up by 10 lengths. Sandown was the next port of call and with that came his first
attempt in Graded company, visually he looked much more forward that day and had muscled up nicely. However it didn't quite go to plan after a bad mistake at the last left him in third and without enough time to regain his momentum on testing ground.
After a break just short of 5 months he came back at Aintree and looked a completely different animal when defeating Cole Harden by four lengths with 25 lengths back to the rest. He again looked to have muscled up a lot and improved again to beat the exciting Don Poli at Punchestown by half a length.
There are two things worth noting about Beat That, firstly that he looks an out and out three miler and he remains unbeaten over the trip in two Grade One's so far. The latter and more important factor is that he seems to be improving with time as last season proved so I can only dream of how good he may be this season...
I have included him in the hurdlers section as that is where I feel he would show his best form, but that doesn't mean I don't think he would take to fences. In fact I think he would make a very good chaser, but he is so slick over his hurdles that it would be a waste to not give him a season out of novice company over timber. If he were to go Novice chasing then he would make into a live RSA hope, but we will cross that bridge if it ever arises.
Djakadam - 5 - OR 147
Willie Mullins has amazingly never had a winner in the Gold Cup but has filled the runner up position twice in the last two years with Sir Des Champs and On His Own. He may have a nice one on his hands here with the progressive Djakadam who was handled carefully last year when only running three times.
On his first outing and chasing debut last season he beat the highly thought of Si C'etait Vrai and the ill fated but classy Minsk in good style. He then stepped up in trip to two miles and five furlongs and took the even bigger scalp of Bright New Dawn when landing a Grade Two. During those two race he was allowed to receive weight all round from his rivals as he is still only a five year old, so things will be tougher this season.
On his third and most recent chase start he travelled to Cheltenham to contest the JLT Novice Chase which I was firmly against. In my mind he was too young to tackle the older horses on such a big stage when he would only be receiving a pound in weight. Despite falling four out I was pleasantly surprised with his performance as he jumped and travelled beautifully and was still in with a chance before coming down.
Things will get decidedly tougher for him this season as he takes on horses out of novice company, but he will also be taking them on without large weight allowances. One thing to counter that argument is that he is a big horse and will have grown into himself a bit more over the summer. I mentioned the Gold Cup earlier on, but in truth that may come a season too early and be a more feasible target in 2016, but he wouldn't go unfancied this time around.
Next Sensation - 7 - OR 147
Next Sensation will be a name that everyone remembers for the wrong reasons after getting caught on the run in at Cheltenham last year in the Grand Annual. What made his performance all the more spectacular was the fact that he was 15 lengths clear at the top of the hill with everything else in trouble, however his forceful tactics meant he paid the price up the hill.
After Cheltenham he went to Aintree and Michael Scudamore will be the first one to admit that it was a mistake to send him there when finishing fifth behind Balder Succes. That doesn't mean he isn't exciting for the coming season, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the two mile division and there is room for one to improve onto the scene.
Next Sensation made great strides towards the top level last year and started by winning a lowly rated event at Plumpton with the minimum of fuss. Two runs later after a win and an uncharacteristic unseat he was ready to announce himself on the scene for Cheltenham handicaps and did so at Doncaster in no uncertain fashion. His main asset is his lightning fast jumping that could make even the best horse look slovenly over his fences, he showed that at Cheltenham when forcing all of his rivals off the bridle by the top of the hill.
As for this season however, the handicap chase that Sire De Grugy won last year at Chepstow could be an ideal start for Next Sensation off a mark of 150. He was beaten at Cheltenham off an eight pound lower mark, but with Tom Scudamore back in the saddle and less forceful tactics, a win should be well within his abilities.
The question I keep asking myself is if he could cut it outside of handicap company and take on some bigger names in the sport, I see no reason why he can't continue that improvement. However I will say that his running style may make him vulnerable, much like the ill fated Sanctuaire a couple of seasons ago. Despite that Next Sensation is an intriguing entry to the list and is expected to keep progressing into a big force among the two milers.
Chris Pea Green 5 - OR 142 (Hurdles)
The first Novice Chaser on the list comes from a local stable to me with Chris Pea Green from Gary Moore's yard. He has always been one that looked as if he will improve for a fence, but he was more than useful over the smaller obstacles including a seventh to Our Conor in the Triumph Hurdle. After his juvenile career ended he made up into a nice handicap hurdler and ended last season with a mark of 145 after a good third in the National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell. He has been off since that run in February which is likely a positive as he was in need of a break after a fairly demanding campaign, but it will also have given him time to mature a bit more for this season.
Over hurdles he was a bit short of top class and it is likely to be the same story over fences but he should be winning a few novice chases along the way. For a while I have considered Chris Pea Green as a perfect horse for the Centenary at Cheltenham which is the handicap for novices on day one of the Festival.
He boasted a high level of form last season including a staying on fourth in the Ladbroke Hurdle and a good seventh in the Betfair Hurdle behind Splash Of Ginge. Unfortunately he was one of the unlucky ones that kept on running well without winning which resulted in him climbing the handicap without success. I fully expect him to improve past his hurdles mark after turning his attention to the bigger obstacles, but it has to be noted that he prefers ground with ease in it, but he is still taken to rise high in the novice ranks.
Gilgamboa - 6 - OR 139 (Hurdles)
Enda Bolger is well known for being a master of cross country races in the past, but he could have a high classed individual here with Gilgamboa. Despite being a six year old he has only graced the track five times but has made huge strides on each appearance and has won three of those.
On the breeding front you would think that his future lies over further than the two miles he is accustomed to running over, but he has shown that he has enough speed for the minimum trip. The furthest he has been tried over is two and a half miles so far which came on bottomless ground, but he won that nicely off a handicap mark of 120. He was then dropped back to two miles for the Boylesports.com Hurdle which is considered a key Cheltenham trial, and he duly obliged off a eight pound higher mark of 128.
His biggest task to date came at the Cheltenham Festival in the Supreme Novices behind Vautour who ran out an emphatic winner. His finishing place of thirteenth doesn't exactly install confidence, but there is more than meets the eye in this case. The race was just beginning to heat up and Gilgamboa was travelling well enough on the inside under AP McCoy. His race was ended at this point when he made a horrendous mistake at the second last hurdle and in truth he did well not to fall, but from that point onward he was tenderly handled.
It was announced soon after that he will be going Novice Chasing this year which is understandable as he is a big strapping individual. Despite that one mistake at Cheltenham he was always a good jumper of a hurdle but shaped as if he would improve for a fence and likely a step up in trip.
Ubak - 6
Ubak is a horse that we haven't seen for a while after suffering an injury at home last year, but he is back and preparing for a novice chasing campaign.
The last time we saw Ubak on a racecourse was at the Punchestown Festival when just edged out by Un Atout who has also been off for a season since. That came off the back of a disappointing performance at Cheltenham in the Neptune (despite being 100/1) and a victory in the Grade 2 Mersey Novices Hurdle at Aintree. He had clearly taken a step forward on his last two performances, but the exciting thing is that he promises to be even better over three miles with fences in the way.
He was highly tried when he came over to England from France and chased home My Tent Or Yours and Taquin Du Seuil on his debut in this country. I recently got a chance to conduct an interview with Jamie Moore on behalf of BetRacingNation and he listed Ubak as his horse to follow and gave a glowing report of the Novice Chaser.
Jamie Moore - "I think he is going to be a very very good horse, apart from Sire De Grugy he is definitely the best horse in the yard"
Blakemount 6 - OR 140 (Hurdles)
The last Novice Chaser on our list this season is a northern representative in the shape of Blakemount from the yard of Sue Smith. He made great strides in Novice Hurdles last season before disappointingly being confirmed as a non runner on the morning at Cheltenham in March.
Despite only winning twice in five attempts last season he kept himself in high company including a close third to Ballyalton who chased home Faugheen at Cheltenham. Earlier on in the season he had got off the mark at Wetherby when beating Sir Mangan (Now rated 125) with the minimum of fuss before stepping up in class. He bumped into Ballyalton and Oscar Rock on that occasion but was by no means embarrassed and if anything was closing the gap late on in the day.
His most promising run however came at Doncaster last time out when just losing out in an almighty battle with Urban Hymn in a Grade Two over and extended 3 miles. This answered many questions for me as both of his victories had come in a more emphatic manner, but he showed tremendous battling qualities on this occasion despite just being beaten.
He has always been a brilliant jumper of a hurdle but has shaped that he would be even better over a fence, as is the way with a lot of Sue Smith's horses. The only time that his jumping has suffered is when restrained and not allowed to lead and as a result got himself caught behind horses. If he is allowed to do his own thing out in front then Blakemount could make into a strong force among the staying novices this season.
Vigil - 5
I have to confess that the Novice Hurdlers this season don't have me particularly excited which I'm sure will change soon enough, but Vigil is one that stuck out to me in Bumpers last season.
He ran well on debut before getting a bit stuck in the mud after the eventual winner had kicked away and got first run, despite that he ran on well and the winner has since made a successful start over hurdles for Tony Martin. He built on that run with a very eye-catching victory over two miles at Leopardstown in a good race under Robbie McNamara. There was a lot to like about that victory with the most taking part being the strength with which he travelled and put the race to bed so decisively on bad ground.
Next stop for him was Cheltenham in the Champion Bumper where he once again ran an admirable race but could do no better than fifth behind Silver Concorde. As usual he travelled into the race really well and still had a chance with a furlong to go, but when really asked he just lacked a bit of speed late in the day before plugging on. With that said he has looked a horse who will thrive over further in time and could be one to consider for the Neptune this season.
Jollyallan - 5
Our second and last horse to fall under the Novice Hurdlers category is Harry Fry's Jollyallan who looked a lovely prospect last season and is held in high esteem by his connections.
He started off in a Bumper at Wincanton when demolishing an admittedly an average looking field, however he was 15 lengths clear of the runner up who in turn was 11 lengths clear of the rest. His exploits that day caught the eye of a certain JP McManus who purchased the Gelding and immediately stepped him up in class. That step up in class came at the Punchestown Festival where he finished sixth to Shaneshill, it was clear that he would need more time than the more prominent of his rivals though. Despite never looking like troubling the leaders he made a lovely sweeping move before turning for home which hints that there is sufficient ability there and as I say, he will have improved for the summer break and should hold his own this season.
As for his targets, your guess is as good as mine but Harry Fry has hinted that he will aim to make his reappearance in November and go from there. He also recently said in an interview with Racing FM that ultimately he will be a chaser instead of being an out and out hurdler, which is understandable. I would still expect him to make into a nice hurdler and win his share of races though and he looks one to go to war with this season.
Urbain De Sivola - 6 - OR 138 (Hurdles) 135 (Chase)
I have a sneaky suspicion that Urbain De Sivola is the best horse in training but he just doesn't want to be, but in all seriousness he is a very talented horse with a few temperament issues. He couldn't be in many better hands to help him achieve the best of his ability than with the Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls.
All his quirks came into one when he was left around 20 lengths behind at the start of the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham, but somehow he had negotiated his was into the front four by the home turn. He jumped really well at the back of the field but was always facing an uphill battle and probably made too much ground too quickly at the wrong time. With all that taken into account he has put in a mighty performance, especially considering that the winner, Don Poli is being aimed at some big races this season.
It is likely that he will go chasing sooner rather than later and it would make sense to do so with a three pound lower mark of 135 over the bigger obstacles. One thing is for certain though, Sam Twiston-Davies will have to be at his fantastic best if Urbain De Sivola is to return to the winners enclosure.
Via Sundown - 6 - OR 140
The second and final horse to fall under the handicappers title is a lightly raced six year old from Gary Moore's yard called Via Sundown. He has found the winners enclosure three times from five attempts so far and as a result has amassed a rating of 140, which could still be lenient.
He was last seen when beating his elders in Benvolio and Lamb Or Cod who are in no right superstars, but in the same breath are good yardsticks. His jumping was very good on the whole that day and showed tremendous battling qualities to see off Benvolio who is a thorough stayer. Before that he ran a poor race in better company behind Corrin Wood and Black Thunder, but he has since proved that to be nothing more than a blip. They came after two demolition jobs at Lingfield in easier races but he proved more than capable in better races and should improve again this season.
I have dubbed Via Sundown as the new Vino Griego which is some title to hold, but in truth he will probably stay further than his stablemate and could develop into a type for some of the smaller Nationals. He quietly went about his way last season but remains a six year old with plenty of scope and should make his mark on a bigger stage this time around.
Pinerolo - 7 - OR 133
Pinerolo has sat in my tracker for around three years with the same comment beside his name of 'wait until he goes chasing', my patience was tested but finally rewarded last year in a big way.
There was one point in his career when is was doubtful that he would ever race again after going badly wrong at Carlisle over hurdles. But after nine months off he made an encouraging reappearance at Sedgefield over hurdles which showed the fire still burned bright in him. His chasing debut came over a distance far too short but showed us that he was a solid jumper and showed tremendous promise to go forward with.
On his second start over fences he bumped into Indian Castle and Many Clouds who both went to Cheltenham with fancied chances in their respected races. Connections then decided to utilise a handicap mark at Carlisle where he duly obliged by 18 lengths on his first try over a trip in excess of three miles. For that he was raised 15 pounds which caused a drop back into novice company where he won again although not in as much of an emphatic style. He was forced to dig deep on that occasion and in all honesty he didn't look like winning until after the last fence which is when his stamina kicked in. His latest two outings came on faster ground and are worth forgetting in a hurry which is why he pulled up twice at the end of a busy season.
His love for softer ground may limit what races he can go to with a realistic chance and rules out the majority of Nationals and he may not have the class for a Welsh National. Will all of those ruled out he would be a perfect horse for something like an Eider Chase at Newcastle which he should be able to make all the running. Regardless where they go, Pinerolo remains an interesting stayer for this season.
Puisque Tu Pars - 4
I understand that this list may have a few Gary Moore horses thrown in, but he has some nice horses for the season ahead and Puisque Tu Pars is another of them. He could be one that is put under the Novice Hurdlers title but I feel he is more at home in this department, but just to reiterate, he will be a Novice this season.
He made a very likable racecourse debut when victorious at Newbury over an extended mile and a half and used all his stamina reserves to gain that maiden success. The ground was pretty testing that day and that could be key to him as he never does anything flashy but will always do enough to grind it out. He was thrown in the deep end next time out at Aintree in a Grade Two but met more than his fair share of trouble, but stayed on nicely at the end when he finally got into the clear. That run is best
forgotten and he was unlucky to bump into a nice horse of Charlie Longsdon's last time out at Fontwell, which wouldn't be his track over a mile and six furlongs but it would seem that he was caught for a bit of speed that day.
He will definitely be a chaser in time however he still looks a horse that can do some damage over hurdles as long as he has progressed over the summer. With all that taken into account the Challow Hurdle at Newbury may be aiming high but could be a good target for the season with soft ground all but assured.
Fine Words - 6 - OR 109
A first entry for Alan King now with Fine Words who is one that you may not know too much about, but I promise you that in the future you will hear plenty of him. Anyone that has seen him will know exactly why I say that as he is a beautiful looking individual and has plenty of ability to go with it.
I first noticed him when standing at the pre-parade ring at Kempton last November before chasing home a future Grade One winner in Captain Cutter. He is a tremendous stamp of a horse and needed last season to really grow into his huge frame, but he was slowly but surely getting the idea late last year. He finished ten lengths behind Captain Cutter which is no bad thing however he was then beaten a long way in his next two novice hurdles, although he showed good promise at Newbury which is likely to be more his track.
His latest appearance saw him be well backed at Kempton on handicap debut off a mark of 109, however things far from went to plan. He was beaten 43 lengths that day but he is much better than that performance shows and he will likely improve for a step up in trip as his sire (Alflora) also produced What A Friend and Wishfull Thinking. He will also improve for a fence but his handicap mark is low enough to be exploited early on in the season before possibly trying his hand at chasing.
I have also divided them into different divisions with some more confident than others as you will see, however I have tried to limit each section to two or three horses, but that is easier said than done!
Before we get into the horses to follow I will just have to promote a few interviews I conducted on behalf of BetRacingNation. Among the links below you will find an interview with Jamie Moore who gave us the latest on Sire De Grugy and the rest of the string, some of which you shall spot in our list of horses. Nick Scholfield also gave us the low down on some of Paul Nicholls' string including one of last year's top novices Irving. Last but not least I spoke to up and coming northern trainer Rebecca Menzies who introduced us to her stable and some of her star horses this season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMHrsidJZzM - Jamie Moore interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZw0iOTWVR8 - Nick Scholfield interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2SjQn6xyOE Rebecca Menzies interview
Now onto the all important horses to follow for this season.
Hurdlers
Faugheen - 6 - OR 158We start off our list with one of the more obvious ones in the shape of last year's Neptune winner Faugheen, who looks to be targeted at the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
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| Faugheen - Photo courtesy of Dan Heap |
In recent years the Neptune has been a similarly successful source of future Champion Hurdle horses than that of the Supreme, with Rock On Ruby and The New One flying the flag. Faugheen however looks to have a lot more speed than the aforementioned duo, but also has enough stamina to win over three miles, which is an extremely rare combination and quite a potent one at that.
With the likes of Vautour and Un De Sceaux going chasing, and Hurricane Fly stepping up in trip it seems that Faugheen is the only one to fly the flag in the two mile division for the dominant Willie Mullins. He is generally a 5/1 chance for the Champion Hurdle but in my mind as long as he gets there he will be winning, famous last words eh!!
Beat That - 6 - OR 154
Number two on our hurdlers list is a bit more of a tentative one, not because he lacks ability but because he may still end up chasing. At this moment in time he seems to be staying hurdling but the decision largely revolves around More Of That and if he tackles the big obstacles.
More Of That was obviously very impressive when winning the World Hurdle last season, but I wouldn't be put off of Beat That when taking him on. I first saw Nicky Henderson's inmate at Ascot last year and without being rude he really didn't look anything special, so I was sufficiently shocked when he bolted up by 10 lengths. Sandown was the next port of call and with that came his first
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| Beat That at Punchestown - Photo courtesy of Dan Heap |
After a break just short of 5 months he came back at Aintree and looked a completely different animal when defeating Cole Harden by four lengths with 25 lengths back to the rest. He again looked to have muscled up a lot and improved again to beat the exciting Don Poli at Punchestown by half a length.
There are two things worth noting about Beat That, firstly that he looks an out and out three miler and he remains unbeaten over the trip in two Grade One's so far. The latter and more important factor is that he seems to be improving with time as last season proved so I can only dream of how good he may be this season...
I have included him in the hurdlers section as that is where I feel he would show his best form, but that doesn't mean I don't think he would take to fences. In fact I think he would make a very good chaser, but he is so slick over his hurdles that it would be a waste to not give him a season out of novice company over timber. If he were to go Novice chasing then he would make into a live RSA hope, but we will cross that bridge if it ever arises.
Chasers
Djakadam - 5 - OR 147
Willie Mullins has amazingly never had a winner in the Gold Cup but has filled the runner up position twice in the last two years with Sir Des Champs and On His Own. He may have a nice one on his hands here with the progressive Djakadam who was handled carefully last year when only running three times.
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| Djakadam looks to stamp his class on the 3 mile division |
On his third and most recent chase start he travelled to Cheltenham to contest the JLT Novice Chase which I was firmly against. In my mind he was too young to tackle the older horses on such a big stage when he would only be receiving a pound in weight. Despite falling four out I was pleasantly surprised with his performance as he jumped and travelled beautifully and was still in with a chance before coming down.
Things will get decidedly tougher for him this season as he takes on horses out of novice company, but he will also be taking them on without large weight allowances. One thing to counter that argument is that he is a big horse and will have grown into himself a bit more over the summer. I mentioned the Gold Cup earlier on, but in truth that may come a season too early and be a more feasible target in 2016, but he wouldn't go unfancied this time around.
Next Sensation - 7 - OR 147
Next Sensation will be a name that everyone remembers for the wrong reasons after getting caught on the run in at Cheltenham last year in the Grand Annual. What made his performance all the more spectacular was the fact that he was 15 lengths clear at the top of the hill with everything else in trouble, however his forceful tactics meant he paid the price up the hill.
After Cheltenham he went to Aintree and Michael Scudamore will be the first one to admit that it was a mistake to send him there when finishing fifth behind Balder Succes. That doesn't mean he isn't exciting for the coming season, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the two mile division and there is room for one to improve onto the scene.
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| Next Sensation before his Cheltenham heroics |
As for this season however, the handicap chase that Sire De Grugy won last year at Chepstow could be an ideal start for Next Sensation off a mark of 150. He was beaten at Cheltenham off an eight pound lower mark, but with Tom Scudamore back in the saddle and less forceful tactics, a win should be well within his abilities.
The question I keep asking myself is if he could cut it outside of handicap company and take on some bigger names in the sport, I see no reason why he can't continue that improvement. However I will say that his running style may make him vulnerable, much like the ill fated Sanctuaire a couple of seasons ago. Despite that Next Sensation is an intriguing entry to the list and is expected to keep progressing into a big force among the two milers.
Novice Chasers
Chris Pea Green 5 - OR 142 (Hurdles)
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| Chris Pea Green will go chasing |
The first Novice Chaser on the list comes from a local stable to me with Chris Pea Green from Gary Moore's yard. He has always been one that looked as if he will improve for a fence, but he was more than useful over the smaller obstacles including a seventh to Our Conor in the Triumph Hurdle. After his juvenile career ended he made up into a nice handicap hurdler and ended last season with a mark of 145 after a good third in the National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell. He has been off since that run in February which is likely a positive as he was in need of a break after a fairly demanding campaign, but it will also have given him time to mature a bit more for this season.
Over hurdles he was a bit short of top class and it is likely to be the same story over fences but he should be winning a few novice chases along the way. For a while I have considered Chris Pea Green as a perfect horse for the Centenary at Cheltenham which is the handicap for novices on day one of the Festival.
He boasted a high level of form last season including a staying on fourth in the Ladbroke Hurdle and a good seventh in the Betfair Hurdle behind Splash Of Ginge. Unfortunately he was one of the unlucky ones that kept on running well without winning which resulted in him climbing the handicap without success. I fully expect him to improve past his hurdles mark after turning his attention to the bigger obstacles, but it has to be noted that he prefers ground with ease in it, but he is still taken to rise high in the novice ranks.
Gilgamboa - 6 - OR 139 (Hurdles)
Enda Bolger is well known for being a master of cross country races in the past, but he could have a high classed individual here with Gilgamboa. Despite being a six year old he has only graced the track five times but has made huge strides on each appearance and has won three of those.
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| Gilgamboa (Near Side) looks a lovely chasing prospect |
His biggest task to date came at the Cheltenham Festival in the Supreme Novices behind Vautour who ran out an emphatic winner. His finishing place of thirteenth doesn't exactly install confidence, but there is more than meets the eye in this case. The race was just beginning to heat up and Gilgamboa was travelling well enough on the inside under AP McCoy. His race was ended at this point when he made a horrendous mistake at the second last hurdle and in truth he did well not to fall, but from that point onward he was tenderly handled.
It was announced soon after that he will be going Novice Chasing this year which is understandable as he is a big strapping individual. Despite that one mistake at Cheltenham he was always a good jumper of a hurdle but shaped as if he would improve for a fence and likely a step up in trip.
Ubak - 6
Ubak is a horse that we haven't seen for a while after suffering an injury at home last year, but he is back and preparing for a novice chasing campaign.
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| Ubak will return to action over fences this season |
He was highly tried when he came over to England from France and chased home My Tent Or Yours and Taquin Du Seuil on his debut in this country. I recently got a chance to conduct an interview with Jamie Moore on behalf of BetRacingNation and he listed Ubak as his horse to follow and gave a glowing report of the Novice Chaser.
Jamie Moore - "I think he is going to be a very very good horse, apart from Sire De Grugy he is definitely the best horse in the yard"
Blakemount 6 - OR 140 (Hurdles)
The last Novice Chaser on our list this season is a northern representative in the shape of Blakemount from the yard of Sue Smith. He made great strides in Novice Hurdles last season before disappointingly being confirmed as a non runner on the morning at Cheltenham in March.
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| Blakemount (right) battles with Urban Hymn |
His most promising run however came at Doncaster last time out when just losing out in an almighty battle with Urban Hymn in a Grade Two over and extended 3 miles. This answered many questions for me as both of his victories had come in a more emphatic manner, but he showed tremendous battling qualities on this occasion despite just being beaten.
He has always been a brilliant jumper of a hurdle but has shaped that he would be even better over a fence, as is the way with a lot of Sue Smith's horses. The only time that his jumping has suffered is when restrained and not allowed to lead and as a result got himself caught behind horses. If he is allowed to do his own thing out in front then Blakemount could make into a strong force among the staying novices this season.
Novice Hurdlers
Vigil - 5
I have to confess that the Novice Hurdlers this season don't have me particularly excited which I'm sure will change soon enough, but Vigil is one that stuck out to me in Bumpers last season.
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| Vigil improved last season and may do so again this year |
Next stop for him was Cheltenham in the Champion Bumper where he once again ran an admirable race but could do no better than fifth behind Silver Concorde. As usual he travelled into the race really well and still had a chance with a furlong to go, but when really asked he just lacked a bit of speed late in the day before plugging on. With that said he has looked a horse who will thrive over further in time and could be one to consider for the Neptune this season.
Jollyallan - 5
Our second and last horse to fall under the Novice Hurdlers category is Harry Fry's Jollyallan who looked a lovely prospect last season and is held in high esteem by his connections.
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| Jollyallan (Third Right) Will improve this season |
As for his targets, your guess is as good as mine but Harry Fry has hinted that he will aim to make his reappearance in November and go from there. He also recently said in an interview with Racing FM that ultimately he will be a chaser instead of being an out and out hurdler, which is understandable. I would still expect him to make into a nice hurdler and win his share of races though and he looks one to go to war with this season.
Handicappers
Urbain De Sivola - 6 - OR 138 (Hurdles) 135 (Chase)
I have a sneaky suspicion that Urbain De Sivola is the best horse in training but he just doesn't want to be, but in all seriousness he is a very talented horse with a few temperament issues. He couldn't be in many better hands to help him achieve the best of his ability than with the Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls.
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| Urbain De Sivola is quirky but talented |
It is likely that he will go chasing sooner rather than later and it would make sense to do so with a three pound lower mark of 135 over the bigger obstacles. One thing is for certain though, Sam Twiston-Davies will have to be at his fantastic best if Urbain De Sivola is to return to the winners enclosure.
Via Sundown - 6 - OR 140
The second and final horse to fall under the handicappers title is a lightly raced six year old from Gary Moore's yard called Via Sundown. He has found the winners enclosure three times from five attempts so far and as a result has amassed a rating of 140, which could still be lenient.
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| Via Sundown (left) fends off Benvolio (right) |
I have dubbed Via Sundown as the new Vino Griego which is some title to hold, but in truth he will probably stay further than his stablemate and could develop into a type for some of the smaller Nationals. He quietly went about his way last season but remains a six year old with plenty of scope and should make his mark on a bigger stage this time around.
Pinerolo - 7 - OR 133
Pinerolo has sat in my tracker for around three years with the same comment beside his name of 'wait until he goes chasing', my patience was tested but finally rewarded last year in a big way.
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| Pinerolo progressed rapidly last year and looks a nice stayer |
On his second start over fences he bumped into Indian Castle and Many Clouds who both went to Cheltenham with fancied chances in their respected races. Connections then decided to utilise a handicap mark at Carlisle where he duly obliged by 18 lengths on his first try over a trip in excess of three miles. For that he was raised 15 pounds which caused a drop back into novice company where he won again although not in as much of an emphatic style. He was forced to dig deep on that occasion and in all honesty he didn't look like winning until after the last fence which is when his stamina kicked in. His latest two outings came on faster ground and are worth forgetting in a hurry which is why he pulled up twice at the end of a busy season.
His love for softer ground may limit what races he can go to with a realistic chance and rules out the majority of Nationals and he may not have the class for a Welsh National. Will all of those ruled out he would be a perfect horse for something like an Eider Chase at Newcastle which he should be able to make all the running. Regardless where they go, Pinerolo remains an interesting stayer for this season.
Dark Horses
Puisque Tu Pars - 4
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| The exciting Puisque Tu Pars |
He made a very likable racecourse debut when victorious at Newbury over an extended mile and a half and used all his stamina reserves to gain that maiden success. The ground was pretty testing that day and that could be key to him as he never does anything flashy but will always do enough to grind it out. He was thrown in the deep end next time out at Aintree in a Grade Two but met more than his fair share of trouble, but stayed on nicely at the end when he finally got into the clear. That run is best
forgotten and he was unlucky to bump into a nice horse of Charlie Longsdon's last time out at Fontwell, which wouldn't be his track over a mile and six furlongs but it would seem that he was caught for a bit of speed that day.
He will definitely be a chaser in time however he still looks a horse that can do some damage over hurdles as long as he has progressed over the summer. With all that taken into account the Challow Hurdle at Newbury may be aiming high but could be a good target for the season with soft ground all but assured.
Fine Words - 6 - OR 109
A first entry for Alan King now with Fine Words who is one that you may not know too much about, but I promise you that in the future you will hear plenty of him. Anyone that has seen him will know exactly why I say that as he is a beautiful looking individual and has plenty of ability to go with it.
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| Fine Words leading his string at home - Photo courtesy of Dan Heap |
His latest appearance saw him be well backed at Kempton on handicap debut off a mark of 109, however things far from went to plan. He was beaten 43 lengths that day but he is much better than that performance shows and he will likely improve for a step up in trip as his sire (Alflora) also produced What A Friend and Wishfull Thinking. He will also improve for a fence but his handicap mark is low enough to be exploited early on in the season before possibly trying his hand at chasing.
Tuesday, 16 September 2014
A Friend, A Man, A Legend
Today racing lost one of the brightest sparks in the sport when learning about the death of Oliver Brady, not because he had the best horses or because he was the best trainer that ever lived, but for what he gave to the sport and how little he expected back other than respect. Some would even argue that he wasn't a genius, just a gentleman with a method to his madness, but the truth is that all of these are right.
His life wasn't entirely about Horse Racing although it did take up a significant part along with his close friend Rita Shah who owned the majority of his horses. Together they set up the Shabra Charity which also carried the name of a lot of their horses, but through their charity they helped donate to many good causes over the years. To this day the Charity has raised an astonishing 550,550 Euros and every penny of that has been donated to people in severe need in Ireland, Kenya and Nigeria. If you would like to donate then I shall leave the link below.
http://www.shabracharity.com/the-causes/donate-now/
Oliver Brady was more known for his racehorses however, and in particular his winners enclosure antics after training and more often than not, tipping a winner. This was shown fantastically by AtTheRaces, however post race interviews never really went to plan as he would prefer to take the microphone and address the adoring crowd.
The biggest show in the winners enclosure, ironically came after he had a third placed horse at the Cheltenham Festival. In 2007 his horse Baron De Feypo chased home Burntoakboy in the Coral Cup at odds of 20/1 but could manage no better than twelfth in the County Hurdle when returning just two days later. Sadly, 'The Baron' never won another race, however Brady celebrated as if he had just won the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He had promised a strip tease if Baron ran well and he didn't disappoint, but just when people got worried about him stripping to the hairs on his chest, he uncovered the final layer as a Monaghan GAA Football shirt.
He was incredibly proud of his hometown of Monaghan and one of his ambitions was to 'Put Monaghan on the map' which he did well, in this sport at least. This brings us to his most famous saying of 'Up Monaghan!!' which he once got the whole parade ring at Cheltenham chanting, regardless of if they knew what or where Monaghan is.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8l9yOZg-Lw - Brady treats the crowd to a masterclass
We have to thank AtTheRaces and in particular Matt Chapman for introducing us to the gentleman that was Oliver Brady. Chapman was the best person to bring out and utilise Brady's madness and for years they had a love affair (Not literally) which is still unrivaled in this business. You can see via the link below that they had a rapport like no other and it was probably more the case that Chapman just let him tire himself out through talking, as long as that may have taken.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JO8zQs3YN3o
On the serious side of things, Oliver Brady had been struggling with an illness since 2003 and on the back of that he was given six months to live. But he fought that in his own way and despite doctors telling him that he couldn't get excited, he maintained his lifestyle of going racing and lived life the only way he knew how to.
Many felt that in 2009 his strong faith in the good Lord was going to be rewarded as his galloping grey Ebadiyan went off a fancied 8/1 shot in the Triumph Hurdle. Fortune was not on his side that day however as Ebadiyan ran out through a gap in the rails at the second last hurdle when still travelling strongly. That was undoubtedly his best chance at a Festival winner and would have eased the pain of Balapour being touched off by a neck in the 2003 County Hurdle. Oliver Brady never did train a Cheltenham Festival winner but I can only imagine the celebrations that would have taken place had he achieved that feat.
I'm afraid it has come to that time, the time where we say our final goodbye to another legend of our sport. One last thing to mention though, in his interviews or when he addressed the crowd he always mentioned that the 'Good Lord will take me when he needs me', that time came today and I hope he can find a good use for the great man.
For the last time I hope you can all join me in saying a final goodbye and a fond thank you for the years Oliver Brady, you were an inspiration and an asset to this great sport of Horse Racing. Up Monaghan!!
His life wasn't entirely about Horse Racing although it did take up a significant part along with his close friend Rita Shah who owned the majority of his horses. Together they set up the Shabra Charity which also carried the name of a lot of their horses, but through their charity they helped donate to many good causes over the years. To this day the Charity has raised an astonishing 550,550 Euros and every penny of that has been donated to people in severe need in Ireland, Kenya and Nigeria. If you would like to donate then I shall leave the link below.
http://www.shabracharity.com/the-causes/donate-now/
 |
| Brady conducting the crowd to his beat |
The biggest show in the winners enclosure, ironically came after he had a third placed horse at the Cheltenham Festival. In 2007 his horse Baron De Feypo chased home Burntoakboy in the Coral Cup at odds of 20/1 but could manage no better than twelfth in the County Hurdle when returning just two days later. Sadly, 'The Baron' never won another race, however Brady celebrated as if he had just won the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He had promised a strip tease if Baron ran well and he didn't disappoint, but just when people got worried about him stripping to the hairs on his chest, he uncovered the final layer as a Monaghan GAA Football shirt.
He was incredibly proud of his hometown of Monaghan and one of his ambitions was to 'Put Monaghan on the map' which he did well, in this sport at least. This brings us to his most famous saying of 'Up Monaghan!!' which he once got the whole parade ring at Cheltenham chanting, regardless of if they knew what or where Monaghan is.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8l9yOZg-Lw - Brady treats the crowd to a masterclass
We have to thank AtTheRaces and in particular Matt Chapman for introducing us to the gentleman that was Oliver Brady. Chapman was the best person to bring out and utilise Brady's madness and for years they had a love affair (Not literally) which is still unrivaled in this business. You can see via the link below that they had a rapport like no other and it was probably more the case that Chapman just let him tire himself out through talking, as long as that may have taken.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JO8zQs3YN3o
 |
| Brady and Willie Mullins in a rare moment of silence |
Many felt that in 2009 his strong faith in the good Lord was going to be rewarded as his galloping grey Ebadiyan went off a fancied 8/1 shot in the Triumph Hurdle. Fortune was not on his side that day however as Ebadiyan ran out through a gap in the rails at the second last hurdle when still travelling strongly. That was undoubtedly his best chance at a Festival winner and would have eased the pain of Balapour being touched off by a neck in the 2003 County Hurdle. Oliver Brady never did train a Cheltenham Festival winner but I can only imagine the celebrations that would have taken place had he achieved that feat.
I'm afraid it has come to that time, the time where we say our final goodbye to another legend of our sport. One last thing to mention though, in his interviews or when he addressed the crowd he always mentioned that the 'Good Lord will take me when he needs me', that time came today and I hope he can find a good use for the great man.
For the last time I hope you can all join me in saying a final goodbye and a fond thank you for the years Oliver Brady, you were an inspiration and an asset to this great sport of Horse Racing. Up Monaghan!!
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| R.I.P Oliver Brady |
Friday, 12 September 2014
Crowning Of The Leger King
Good morning/evening to you all, I hope we have got over last weeks exertions and are ready for a huge weekend of racing. Despite only having six meetings in the British Isles tomorrow we have three Group Ones, three Group Twos and two Group Threes... Got that? Good!
We had a strong weekend on the blog last week with an 11/1 winner courtesy of G Force and two places at 14/1 and 16/1 with Agent Murphy and Marmalady who were potentially unlucky. This week promises to be even better with four strong fancies, but before we get to that...
As always OnTheOtherHoof have prepared a video for you all as we run through the day of racing on Channel 4, with some Irish action thrown in for good measure. Joining me on the panel today are @Calummadell, @Mytentoryours and @TWEnclosure. We hope you enjoy the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05xfWzMSTHo&feature=youtu.be
Now onto the all important selections for today.
2:40 Doncaster - Muthmir
William Haggas and Paul Hanagan get today started off for us with the exciting Muthmir who has been progressing nicely all season. He announced himself onto the handicaps scene with a demolition job off a mark of 93 at York in the Skybet Dash when beating Goldream. You would have to search far and wide to find a horse travel into a big six furlong handicap as well as Muthmir that day, but he matched it with a turn of foot as well which is quite a potent combination in this sphere. It was quite clear that day that his days in handicap company were numbered and it still only looks a matter of time before he is taking on better horses.
If there were any negatives to take from York it would be that he wandered a little when coming off the bridle and he showed a bit of greenness late on in the day. That would probably account for a more disappointing effort at Goodwood in the Stewards Cup, although in truth there wasn't a lot wrong with his run. Personally I feel that race came a bit too soon for him and after a break of 42 days there will be no excuses today and he should show his class once more. (5/1)
2:50 Bath - Marmalady
You will probably remember Marmalady from last week as she made an appearance on the blog when in action at Ascot and left us heartbroken when going down by a head behind Algar Lad. She had been struggling on the Lingfield polytrack which clearly doesn't suit her before a much better effort last week, and she returns to a course where she has won at before on ground she will adore.
Both herself and Algar Lad put a lot of distance between themselves and the rest of the field last week which justifies the six pounds rise in the handicap. However she effectively runs off a one pound lower mark due to the claim of Hector Crouch who is a promising young rider and one you will hear a lot more about. Along with a one pound lower mark this is also a much weaker contest than that of seven days ago which will suggest that everything is in her favour today. Marmalady to finally gain another well deserved win and go one better than last week to justify today's Nap. (11/4)
3:50 Doncaster - Kings Fete
If you are unlucky enough to follow me on twitter (@Lukeelder13) then you will know how highly I regard Kings Fete, but for those of you who don't here is some reasoning!
There was a rather large sigh of relief earlier in the week when it was confirmed that Kings Fete would take his chance after a good piece of work at home last Saturday. He has long been my idea of the winner of this race after a strong Maiden at Sandown before improving once again at York in handicap company. He proved at York that he comes with a health warning however, as he bolted on the way to post that day before proving very keen in the early part of the race. It just shows how much talent he has that he could still beat older and more experienced rivals after behaving the way he did, but he came unstuck next time out.
He was given a strong waiting ride by James Doyle on his first visit to Goodwood when also wearing a hood for the first time which helped him settle, but he was given too much to do and failed to catch Double Bluff who made all. The hood came off last time out on his second visit to Goodwood and he was very keen early on again before coming up short behind Alex My Boy and Forever Now who re-oppose today.
He doesn't carry the strongest portfolio coming into the race but he is an improving figure and the booking of Ryan Moore is a very strong one. I am also pretty confident that he is the best horse in the race, but even I have to concede that he does need to settle early on if he is to have a chance today. (16/1) advised ante-post along with Romsdal at (7/1)
http://lukeelder.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/ladbrokes-st-leger-ante-post.html
6:05 Doncaster - Bronze Angel
I was a little disappointed that Bronze Angel wasn't closer last time, but looking back it wasn't the worst run to finish behind Short Squeeze, Top Notch Tonto and an improving Balducci. He runs off the same mark of 99 today but is assisted by the Ebor winning jockey Louis Steward who takes a valuable five pounds off.
He didn't run too badly last time out, but it was his effort two outings ago that sticks out in my mind when luckless in running behind Red Avenger at Glorious Goodwood. He was drawn awfully that day but overcame it early on and had to give everything in the field a head start, however it wasn't the start that beat him. Around two furlongs out he got a bump from the eventual winner and was set back a couple of lengths, it took him a while to regather his momentum but when he did he absolutely flew home to no avail.
With his riders claim he runs off the same mark as that day which should see him go well and that is why Bronze Angel is taken to land today's prize on the way to the Cambridgeshire once more. (5/1)
NAP - Marmalady
Nb - Muthmir
Good luck guys and as always, happy punting!
We had a strong weekend on the blog last week with an 11/1 winner courtesy of G Force and two places at 14/1 and 16/1 with Agent Murphy and Marmalady who were potentially unlucky. This week promises to be even better with four strong fancies, but before we get to that...
As always OnTheOtherHoof have prepared a video for you all as we run through the day of racing on Channel 4, with some Irish action thrown in for good measure. Joining me on the panel today are @Calummadell, @Mytentoryours and @TWEnclosure. We hope you enjoy the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05xfWzMSTHo&feature=youtu.be
Now onto the all important selections for today.
2:40 Doncaster - Muthmir
William Haggas and Paul Hanagan get today started off for us with the exciting Muthmir who has been progressing nicely all season. He announced himself onto the handicaps scene with a demolition job off a mark of 93 at York in the Skybet Dash when beating Goldream. You would have to search far and wide to find a horse travel into a big six furlong handicap as well as Muthmir that day, but he matched it with a turn of foot as well which is quite a potent combination in this sphere. It was quite clear that day that his days in handicap company were numbered and it still only looks a matter of time before he is taking on better horses.
If there were any negatives to take from York it would be that he wandered a little when coming off the bridle and he showed a bit of greenness late on in the day. That would probably account for a more disappointing effort at Goodwood in the Stewards Cup, although in truth there wasn't a lot wrong with his run. Personally I feel that race came a bit too soon for him and after a break of 42 days there will be no excuses today and he should show his class once more. (5/1)
2:50 Bath - Marmalady
You will probably remember Marmalady from last week as she made an appearance on the blog when in action at Ascot and left us heartbroken when going down by a head behind Algar Lad. She had been struggling on the Lingfield polytrack which clearly doesn't suit her before a much better effort last week, and she returns to a course where she has won at before on ground she will adore.
Both herself and Algar Lad put a lot of distance between themselves and the rest of the field last week which justifies the six pounds rise in the handicap. However she effectively runs off a one pound lower mark due to the claim of Hector Crouch who is a promising young rider and one you will hear a lot more about. Along with a one pound lower mark this is also a much weaker contest than that of seven days ago which will suggest that everything is in her favour today. Marmalady to finally gain another well deserved win and go one better than last week to justify today's Nap. (11/4)
3:50 Doncaster - Kings Fete
If you are unlucky enough to follow me on twitter (@Lukeelder13) then you will know how highly I regard Kings Fete, but for those of you who don't here is some reasoning!
There was a rather large sigh of relief earlier in the week when it was confirmed that Kings Fete would take his chance after a good piece of work at home last Saturday. He has long been my idea of the winner of this race after a strong Maiden at Sandown before improving once again at York in handicap company. He proved at York that he comes with a health warning however, as he bolted on the way to post that day before proving very keen in the early part of the race. It just shows how much talent he has that he could still beat older and more experienced rivals after behaving the way he did, but he came unstuck next time out.
He was given a strong waiting ride by James Doyle on his first visit to Goodwood when also wearing a hood for the first time which helped him settle, but he was given too much to do and failed to catch Double Bluff who made all. The hood came off last time out on his second visit to Goodwood and he was very keen early on again before coming up short behind Alex My Boy and Forever Now who re-oppose today.
He doesn't carry the strongest portfolio coming into the race but he is an improving figure and the booking of Ryan Moore is a very strong one. I am also pretty confident that he is the best horse in the race, but even I have to concede that he does need to settle early on if he is to have a chance today. (16/1) advised ante-post along with Romsdal at (7/1)
http://lukeelder.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/ladbrokes-st-leger-ante-post.html
6:05 Doncaster - Bronze Angel
I was a little disappointed that Bronze Angel wasn't closer last time, but looking back it wasn't the worst run to finish behind Short Squeeze, Top Notch Tonto and an improving Balducci. He runs off the same mark of 99 today but is assisted by the Ebor winning jockey Louis Steward who takes a valuable five pounds off.
He didn't run too badly last time out, but it was his effort two outings ago that sticks out in my mind when luckless in running behind Red Avenger at Glorious Goodwood. He was drawn awfully that day but overcame it early on and had to give everything in the field a head start, however it wasn't the start that beat him. Around two furlongs out he got a bump from the eventual winner and was set back a couple of lengths, it took him a while to regather his momentum but when he did he absolutely flew home to no avail.
With his riders claim he runs off the same mark as that day which should see him go well and that is why Bronze Angel is taken to land today's prize on the way to the Cambridgeshire once more. (5/1)
NAP - Marmalady
Nb - Muthmir
Good luck guys and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 5 September 2014
Lady To Come Of Age At Ascot
Good morning/evening everyone I hope you are all eagerly awaiting the fantastic racing this weekend after last week's disappointing turn out. Despite that we still salvaged a profitable day with B Fifty Two who was a winning nap, but there is no time to celebrate as we have to do the same again this week. Today's main race is the Betfred Sprint Cup which is a Group One over six furlongs, unfortunately Slade Power doesn't take his chance however his fellow superstar stable mate in Sole Power does.
As always we have a video preview prepared for you guys as we look forward to all of the action on Channel 4 today. Joining me on the panel this week are @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell as Michael forgot what day it was... I wish I was joking. I hope you enjoy the preview and find some winners along with us!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQufOPRRq_s
One last thing to mention before getting to the selections. Tomorrow (Saturday) I am hosting the late show on BetRacingNation as we preview the jumps season ahead, I will be joined on the panel by Gary Woods and Sam Boswell. Even more importantly (Sorry guys) I will be interviewing Nick Scholfield, Jamie Moore and trainer Rebecca Menzies about the upcoming season. I hope you can join us, but if not then you can catch the interviews on Youtube. You can watch live via the link below at Midday until 1:30.
http://www.sportstonightlive.com/
Now onto the all important selections!
3:15 Haydock Park - Hassle
Hassle has been progressing nicely this season before finishing third when staying on all too late in the Shergar Cup behind Retirement Plan, who boosted that form when running a good race in the Ebor. That effort came over two miles at Ascot which wouldn't suggest that a drop in trip will be in his favour, however Adam Kirby knows the horse well which can't be said for Olivier Peslier.
You can't talk too badly of a ride in the Shergar Cup as they riders won't have even sat on the horses before, but Hassle would benefit from more of a stamina test. Today promises to be just that and Haydock may be a flat course, but the long straight means that they race a long way from home, so staying power is essential. The ground isn't too much of a worry at present, however he wouldn't want too much more rain to be seen at his best this afternoon.
Havana Cooler is a horse I like but it will take a huge performance if he were to win this off top weight and the bottom weight, Epsom Hill will need a deluge of rain tonight. Glenard recently won at York and is one of the pace angles, however he does have stamina worries and Quest For More looked to appreciated the step up in trip last time out, but he is hard to win with. With all things considered it would be no surprise is Hassle had more to offer and should give his running again. (10/1)
3:30 Ascot - Agent Murphy
Brian Meehan and connections of Agent Murphy all but lost a good horse earlier in the season with Da Do Run Run, but their representative here has done well at picking up the pieces.
We have only seen him on a racecourse three times but he has impressed on each occasion and last time gave the impression that this trip would suit. He bumped into Redkirk on that occasion who is a well regarded horse of William Haggas', but the horses who finished behind him that day haven't exactly boosted the form, despite Mantou running well in the Melrose before his saddle came off along with his rider. Both himself and Redkirk put a lot of distance between themselves and the field however so it could just be that them two are a lot better than their opponents that day.
One last thing to add about Agent Murphy is to defend the fact that his winning margins have never been that great. He won by a head at Bath when running over a trip that was in all likeliness too short and hit the front too soon at Sandown, which was seen again at Ascot when not doing much in front late on in the day. However we take Agent Murphy to defy another six pound rise in the handicap and take a further step forward to better company. (16/1)
3:50 Haydock Park - G Force
This race obviously revolves around Sole Power who has been nothing short of sensational this year, but over five furlongs, today's race is over six furlongs which he has struggled over on every attempt in the past.
One that wasn't far behind the favourite in the Nunthorpe was G Force who represents Middleham Park Racing and Dave O'Meara, who has his string in fine form. My eye was initially drawn to the staying on Cougar Mountain in the Nunthorpe, however after a further look it would appear that G Force could be branded an unlucky loser. Danny Tudhope tried to get a lead into the race from Sole Power who didn't have an easy passage in his own right, however the eventual winner got a gap at the perfect time and G Force has to suffer. Before that he found the five furlongs at Goodwood too fast which is no disgrace at all and the step up to six furlongs should suit him.
As mentioned before I am a fan of Cougar Mountain who has been thrown into the deep end in his early career, but he may just need a bit more time and peak next season. Tropics is also an interesting one as he has refound his best form, but I am desperate for him to go to Santa Anita to contest the Breeders Cup Sprint. This could be the first Group One for G Force though. (11/1)
5:15 Ascot - Marmalady
If we have three winners by now then a lot will be riding on the chances of Marmalady who chased home Intrinsic over a furlong further here in May. Since then things haven't really progressed like they promised to but she is still a young sprinter with bags of potential, especially when she gets her beloved fast ground like today.
She was last seen when finishing third at Lingfield over six furlongs, but I wouldn't expect Lingfield to be her track after running poorly there previously. She also didn't look to be striding out fully in the closing stages so there could have been something holding her back, however she wouldn't be here today if that wasn't corrected. This is a strong race and it can probably be viewed as a negative that Ryan Moore prefers to ride Foxy Forever, however William Buick is a more than able deputy.
There are some opinions that Marmalady is better over six furlongs however she also has bags of speed and she won't be left behind and will stay the stiff five well. Marmalady to end the day on a high for Gary Moore and William Buick. (14/1)
NAP - Agent Murphy
Nb - Hassle
Good luck tomorrow guys and as always, happy punting!
As always we have a video preview prepared for you guys as we look forward to all of the action on Channel 4 today. Joining me on the panel this week are @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell as Michael forgot what day it was... I wish I was joking. I hope you enjoy the preview and find some winners along with us!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQufOPRRq_s
One last thing to mention before getting to the selections. Tomorrow (Saturday) I am hosting the late show on BetRacingNation as we preview the jumps season ahead, I will be joined on the panel by Gary Woods and Sam Boswell. Even more importantly (Sorry guys) I will be interviewing Nick Scholfield, Jamie Moore and trainer Rebecca Menzies about the upcoming season. I hope you can join us, but if not then you can catch the interviews on Youtube. You can watch live via the link below at Midday until 1:30.
http://www.sportstonightlive.com/
Now onto the all important selections!
3:15 Haydock Park - Hassle
Hassle has been progressing nicely this season before finishing third when staying on all too late in the Shergar Cup behind Retirement Plan, who boosted that form when running a good race in the Ebor. That effort came over two miles at Ascot which wouldn't suggest that a drop in trip will be in his favour, however Adam Kirby knows the horse well which can't be said for Olivier Peslier.
You can't talk too badly of a ride in the Shergar Cup as they riders won't have even sat on the horses before, but Hassle would benefit from more of a stamina test. Today promises to be just that and Haydock may be a flat course, but the long straight means that they race a long way from home, so staying power is essential. The ground isn't too much of a worry at present, however he wouldn't want too much more rain to be seen at his best this afternoon.
Havana Cooler is a horse I like but it will take a huge performance if he were to win this off top weight and the bottom weight, Epsom Hill will need a deluge of rain tonight. Glenard recently won at York and is one of the pace angles, however he does have stamina worries and Quest For More looked to appreciated the step up in trip last time out, but he is hard to win with. With all things considered it would be no surprise is Hassle had more to offer and should give his running again. (10/1)
3:30 Ascot - Agent Murphy
Brian Meehan and connections of Agent Murphy all but lost a good horse earlier in the season with Da Do Run Run, but their representative here has done well at picking up the pieces.
We have only seen him on a racecourse three times but he has impressed on each occasion and last time gave the impression that this trip would suit. He bumped into Redkirk on that occasion who is a well regarded horse of William Haggas', but the horses who finished behind him that day haven't exactly boosted the form, despite Mantou running well in the Melrose before his saddle came off along with his rider. Both himself and Redkirk put a lot of distance between themselves and the field however so it could just be that them two are a lot better than their opponents that day.
One last thing to add about Agent Murphy is to defend the fact that his winning margins have never been that great. He won by a head at Bath when running over a trip that was in all likeliness too short and hit the front too soon at Sandown, which was seen again at Ascot when not doing much in front late on in the day. However we take Agent Murphy to defy another six pound rise in the handicap and take a further step forward to better company. (16/1)
3:50 Haydock Park - G Force
This race obviously revolves around Sole Power who has been nothing short of sensational this year, but over five furlongs, today's race is over six furlongs which he has struggled over on every attempt in the past.
One that wasn't far behind the favourite in the Nunthorpe was G Force who represents Middleham Park Racing and Dave O'Meara, who has his string in fine form. My eye was initially drawn to the staying on Cougar Mountain in the Nunthorpe, however after a further look it would appear that G Force could be branded an unlucky loser. Danny Tudhope tried to get a lead into the race from Sole Power who didn't have an easy passage in his own right, however the eventual winner got a gap at the perfect time and G Force has to suffer. Before that he found the five furlongs at Goodwood too fast which is no disgrace at all and the step up to six furlongs should suit him.
As mentioned before I am a fan of Cougar Mountain who has been thrown into the deep end in his early career, but he may just need a bit more time and peak next season. Tropics is also an interesting one as he has refound his best form, but I am desperate for him to go to Santa Anita to contest the Breeders Cup Sprint. This could be the first Group One for G Force though. (11/1)
5:15 Ascot - Marmalady
If we have three winners by now then a lot will be riding on the chances of Marmalady who chased home Intrinsic over a furlong further here in May. Since then things haven't really progressed like they promised to but she is still a young sprinter with bags of potential, especially when she gets her beloved fast ground like today.
She was last seen when finishing third at Lingfield over six furlongs, but I wouldn't expect Lingfield to be her track after running poorly there previously. She also didn't look to be striding out fully in the closing stages so there could have been something holding her back, however she wouldn't be here today if that wasn't corrected. This is a strong race and it can probably be viewed as a negative that Ryan Moore prefers to ride Foxy Forever, however William Buick is a more than able deputy.
There are some opinions that Marmalady is better over six furlongs however she also has bags of speed and she won't be left behind and will stay the stiff five well. Marmalady to end the day on a high for Gary Moore and William Buick. (14/1)
NAP - Agent Murphy
Nb - Hassle
Good luck tomorrow guys and as always, happy punting!
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