Good evening/morning everyone, I hope we have fully recovered from the festive period now and are ready to kick 2015 off with a bang. We did that last week with two winners in the shape of Fairy Rath and Mr Mole who started off the year well for us, it looks harder this week but we shall give it a go as always.
@OnTheOtherHoof have a video preview prepared for you guys as we look ahead to the Channel 4 action from Kempton and Warwick. Joining me on the panel this week are the usual suspects of @Adamwebb121 and @Calummadell who both give their best bets of the day. Hope you can join us via the link below, enjoy!
Lanzarote Hurdle and Classic Chase Day
Now onto the all important selections!
2:40 Kempton - Dell Arca
We start off with one of the day's feature races in the Lanzarote Hurdle at Kempton, which was won last year by the progressive Saphir Du Rheu. Dell Arca may not fall into the progressive category after failing to sparkle over fences, but he showed that the ability is still there in a Grade One at Ascot last time out.
I have to admit, Dell Arca has never really been a horse that I have warmed to despite featuring heavily in many top handicap hurdles. Those include a second to Splash Of Ginge in last year's Betfair Hurdle before a good fifth in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham. He failed to win in two attempts over fences and despite pushing the Grade One winning Coneygree to a length and a half he reverted to hurdles last time out. That came in the Grade One Long Walk Hurdle which also included his first attempt at a trip in excess of two miles and five furlongs. He quite clearly didn't stay that day and probably lacked a bit of class against Reve De Sivola and Zarkandar, but ran with great promise. Turning for home he was sat in a share of fourth and began to make his move while still travelling strongly, but his stamina gave out before the second last. Tom Scudamore was sensible on him after that and just nursed him home under a hands and heels ride, but he entered the notebook and the handicapper has left him on a mark of 145. That mark is four pounds higher than his effort when fifth in the Coral Cup and the softer ground should be no bother to him whatsoever. Dell Arca to add a Lanzarote Hurdle to his already impressive portfolio. (10/1)
3:15 Kempton - Via Sundown
You will remember Via Sundown featuring as part of the horses to follow list at the start of the season, but it hasn't exactly gone to plan so far. He landed a small novice hurdle at Exeter to start his year off but then put in a disappointing performance in the Hennessy when never really looking like landing a blow. The handicapper relented four pounds for that effort and he ran a far better race at Ascot last time out despite only finishing sixth.
He showed up well for a long way at Ascot and like Dell Arca was still travelling well when turning for home upsides with The Young Master. He benefited from first time cheek pieces that day and they remain on again today which should help him no end. Despite running well at Ascot he faded into sixth late in the race but as a result the handicapper has given him a chance and he finds himself four pounds lower in the handicap. Josh Moore has partnered him to all of his victories so far and he takes the ride once more this afternoon, he will need to brush up his jumping but can land his first race over fences this season. (10/1)
3:35 Warwick - West End Rocker
It has been four years since a 9 year old West End Rocker was victorious in this race and returns as an in form 13 year old. He faces a stiff task against his younger rivals but is also met with the burden of a mark of 139 which is two pounds higher than his highest winning mark. Tom Bellamy takes the ride once again which means he gets a valuable five pounds taken off his back and the two seemed to gel nicely at Lingfield last time out.
That was the perfect race for him to refind his form in as there were only three rivals for him to beat in a Veterans Chase, albeit against some classy horses though. He never really looked in trouble that day and jumped for fun, which is a crucial quality to have round Warwick as the fences come up thick and fast. The ground will also pose no issues for him whatsoever as he has three wins to his name on heavy ground including this race and the Becher Chase. With Tom Bellamy's claim taken into account he is only a pound higher than he was when victorious here in 2013 and he looks better than ever lately. West End Rocker to regain his Classic Chase crown. (14/1)
3:45 Kempton - War Singer
We end today with War Singer who's run last time out at Sandown is being boosted by the form book with a couple of winners coming out from behind him. Ruacana has since won the feature race at Musselburgh on New Years Day and Sleepy Haven who reopposes here has also bolted up at Haydock. The only one that has let the form down is Amore Alato who was a selection on the blog last week, but he can be forgiven as he hated the ground.
War Singer travelled excellently that day and he jumped to the front at the second last but was passed by Snake Eyes and Amore Alato up the Sandown hill. The easier track at Kempton will suit him and he has won on softer ground in the past so it will suit him more than some of his rivals. Despite shaping up into a National Hunt horse now he has been in winning action over the Autumn when landing events at Sandown and Goodwood. He could still be on a lenient mark over hurdles and is well worth giving another chance to with Nick Scholfield in the saddle. (8/1)
NAP - War Singer
Nb - Dell Arca
Have a good day everyone and as always, happy punting!
Showing posts with label National hunt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label National hunt. Show all posts
Friday, 9 January 2015
Friday, 22 February 2013
23rd February 2013
Morning everyone, its getting to that time of year when you wake up and check the calendar for how long is left until the Cheltenham roar goes up on the opening Tuesday. But there is still racing to get through and even some having their prep races for the festival including today at Kempton. We also race from Newcastle who host the yearly stamina sapping slog that is the Eider Chase over 4 miles and a furlong. Firstly a review of last week as always.
Usually if we only had one winner in a week, id be sitting here typing how poor the week was and that we need to recover this week. We only had the one winner on Saturday, however that one winner was Kuilsriver who returned at 33/1 and may I say jumped fantastically on the whole. He saved our bacon last week so hopefully a more consistent blog today with regular winners again.
Kempton host's a very good card with the highlight being the Racing Plus chase won last year by Nacarat who lines up again this year. This could well be his swansong so it would be lovely to see the brave grey give a bold showing again. Newcastle also hold a seven race card which as previously mentioned stages the Eider which will see the progressive Chac Du Cadran be the likely favourite. But enough about what is going on, lets dive into the action of the week.
1:30 Kempton - Milarrow
Colin Tizzard's Gelding is ultra consistent, second the last two times and not out of the first four since December 2011 registering two wins on the way. But its the last two runs that interest me, two outings ago he was beaten out of sight by Radjhani Express, but not much would have beaten him on that day. He was also one of only 3 to finish and was 7 lengths in front of the 3rd horse Coole River who in turn is a very useful sort. Most recently however he was second to Politeo when the winner was backed heavily during the day winning by 8 lengths. The point I am making is that the last two times he has been unlucky when running into a well handicapped horse, fortunately there doesn't look anything of that kind here today. Milarrow to land a Deserved victory. (9/2)
1:45 Newcastle - Fill The Power
Sue Smith's gelding is a ready made chaser who like Milarrow has been nothing but consistent recently. He won his chasing debut at Sedgefield beating the useful yardstick in Flinty Bay with Dica back in third. He was then a well beaten third before catching the horrible seconditis. This lasted for 3 runs before unseating last time out when probably in a race too good for him anyway, there is some top form in there though. He was second to Wyck Hill (favourite for the Racing Plus chase) by half a length before doing everything but win at Doncaster, again beaten half a length. His best novice form came when 15 lengths behind the classy Rocky Creek at Warwick and a reproduction of that will surely have him go close if not win. (4/1)
2:05 Kempton - Irish Saint
This was a tough choice for me between Irish Saint and Vasco Du Ronceray. But we shall side with the former who has the much stronger form to his name to date. He was seen here on debut for Paul Nicholls when absoluting cantering home in a Juvenile Hurdle beating the more than useful Mcvicar by 18 lengths. He wasn't particularly fancied by Paul Nicholls that day but did the job in a very professional and taking style. Irish Saint then stepped up in class when taking on the Nicky Henderson inmate Rolling Star, who is now the Triumph Hurdle favourite. Beaten 2 1/4 lengths that day after the bottomless ground got to him on the run in and climb up the Cheltenham hill. Even in defeat he was 30 lengths clear of the closest rival in Roc D'apsis and could just be a cut about them today. (13/8)
2:40 Kempton - Molotof
I have to come clean, at the start of the year I was wondering why Molotof was being sent over fences as I didn't feel he had the right frame for chasing, how wrong I was. He has proved himself to be a very smart novice and more importantly a slick jumper. He was an impressive winner at Warwick two weeks ago after finishing fourth to Dynaste here over 3 miles in the Feltham. With Barry Geraghty on board and the Henderson string in fine form we will take Molotof to oblige in what looks to be a fairly weak race. A very strong selection. (11/8)
2:55 Newcastle - Our Island
I have never been a big fan of Tim Vaughan's gelding but today he seemingly jumped off the page at his respected odds. There are a few stamina doubts about many of the field today but Our Island has ran well over marathon trips before, most notable 3rd over 4 miles at Exeter on very testing ground. He was also a decent fifth in the Welsh National behind Monbeg dude, beaten 18 lengths that day but it would seem that today is the one they have been waiting for. He struggled last year when in high class novice company but since going handicapping has been much more at home. With no stamina doubts and 3 pounds below his last winning mark he could take some beating here. (10/1)
3:15 Kempton - Forgotten Voice
This could well be a second part of a Henderson and Geraghty double in the Dovecote, this once top class flat performer has equipped himself nicely since switching to hurdles. Winning his first two races very nicely at Bangor and Market Rasen he came here in a handicap hurdle and finished fourth under top weight. He was giving a lot of weight away that day which isn't ideal for a novice in a handicap, but that will have put him straight and he will be much more fit today. with Geraghty getting the leg up we will take him to land a quick fire double.
I will have to apologise for the Racing Plus chase as I cant even force myself to fancy anything, nothing jumps off the page but if I were to have a bet for interest id take Mister Hyde each way at 33s.
4:25 Kempton - Quaddick Lake
If you have watched Quaddick Lake's last two runs and haven't entered him in your notebook then you need to check yourself into the local loony bin. Two runs ago he was 3rd at Cheltenham behind the very progressive Mr Watson, he was very tentatively handled that day and was never closer than he was at the line. I don't even think Nick Scholfield went for the whip on board him that day. Naturally you would think next time out would be a breeze for him, alas that was not the case. Everything was going fine at Huntingdon before he had a rival fall directly in front of him, resulting in him losing 10 lengths off the back of the field. From that point he had no chance but incredibly he stayed on again to come 3rd once more and only 3 1/4 lengths off the winner Art Professor. If there is any justice in the world he will be winning today and with only a two pound rise in the handicap he is taken to win again, with some luck of course. (6/1)
4:40 Newcastle - Papa Caruso
Hopefully by this point we will all be so rich we wont even need a winner, but just in case we will take a chance with Papa Caruso from the Sue Smith yard. Since winning a race at Newcastle when a very heavy backed favourite in 2011 he hasn't won, saying that he has only had four runs since. Last time looked as if there was a bit of a revival coming however when a close up third to Kandari at Catterick. He jumped much better on the whole that day and if continuing his upward curve off a 1 pound lower rating should be very competitive here. (11/2)
That's all for the action today folks, but one more word in that my interview with Shirley Teasdale is still coming at some point next week. I will be posting it on my twitter account when I finally upload it, you can find me on @lukeyboy1325
UPDATE: On the news that Newcastle is off im throwing Picansort into the blog in the last at Lingfield, he is returning to some form and could go well. Being backed in so get on quick. (5/1)
NAP - Molotof
NB - Irish Saint
Happy Punting guys!
Usually if we only had one winner in a week, id be sitting here typing how poor the week was and that we need to recover this week. We only had the one winner on Saturday, however that one winner was Kuilsriver who returned at 33/1 and may I say jumped fantastically on the whole. He saved our bacon last week so hopefully a more consistent blog today with regular winners again.
Kempton host's a very good card with the highlight being the Racing Plus chase won last year by Nacarat who lines up again this year. This could well be his swansong so it would be lovely to see the brave grey give a bold showing again. Newcastle also hold a seven race card which as previously mentioned stages the Eider which will see the progressive Chac Du Cadran be the likely favourite. But enough about what is going on, lets dive into the action of the week.
1:30 Kempton - Milarrow
Colin Tizzard's Gelding is ultra consistent, second the last two times and not out of the first four since December 2011 registering two wins on the way. But its the last two runs that interest me, two outings ago he was beaten out of sight by Radjhani Express, but not much would have beaten him on that day. He was also one of only 3 to finish and was 7 lengths in front of the 3rd horse Coole River who in turn is a very useful sort. Most recently however he was second to Politeo when the winner was backed heavily during the day winning by 8 lengths. The point I am making is that the last two times he has been unlucky when running into a well handicapped horse, fortunately there doesn't look anything of that kind here today. Milarrow to land a Deserved victory. (9/2)
1:45 Newcastle - Fill The Power
Sue Smith's gelding is a ready made chaser who like Milarrow has been nothing but consistent recently. He won his chasing debut at Sedgefield beating the useful yardstick in Flinty Bay with Dica back in third. He was then a well beaten third before catching the horrible seconditis. This lasted for 3 runs before unseating last time out when probably in a race too good for him anyway, there is some top form in there though. He was second to Wyck Hill (favourite for the Racing Plus chase) by half a length before doing everything but win at Doncaster, again beaten half a length. His best novice form came when 15 lengths behind the classy Rocky Creek at Warwick and a reproduction of that will surely have him go close if not win. (4/1)
2:05 Kempton - Irish Saint
This was a tough choice for me between Irish Saint and Vasco Du Ronceray. But we shall side with the former who has the much stronger form to his name to date. He was seen here on debut for Paul Nicholls when absoluting cantering home in a Juvenile Hurdle beating the more than useful Mcvicar by 18 lengths. He wasn't particularly fancied by Paul Nicholls that day but did the job in a very professional and taking style. Irish Saint then stepped up in class when taking on the Nicky Henderson inmate Rolling Star, who is now the Triumph Hurdle favourite. Beaten 2 1/4 lengths that day after the bottomless ground got to him on the run in and climb up the Cheltenham hill. Even in defeat he was 30 lengths clear of the closest rival in Roc D'apsis and could just be a cut about them today. (13/8)
2:40 Kempton - Molotof
I have to come clean, at the start of the year I was wondering why Molotof was being sent over fences as I didn't feel he had the right frame for chasing, how wrong I was. He has proved himself to be a very smart novice and more importantly a slick jumper. He was an impressive winner at Warwick two weeks ago after finishing fourth to Dynaste here over 3 miles in the Feltham. With Barry Geraghty on board and the Henderson string in fine form we will take Molotof to oblige in what looks to be a fairly weak race. A very strong selection. (11/8)
2:55 Newcastle - Our Island
I have never been a big fan of Tim Vaughan's gelding but today he seemingly jumped off the page at his respected odds. There are a few stamina doubts about many of the field today but Our Island has ran well over marathon trips before, most notable 3rd over 4 miles at Exeter on very testing ground. He was also a decent fifth in the Welsh National behind Monbeg dude, beaten 18 lengths that day but it would seem that today is the one they have been waiting for. He struggled last year when in high class novice company but since going handicapping has been much more at home. With no stamina doubts and 3 pounds below his last winning mark he could take some beating here. (10/1)
3:15 Kempton - Forgotten Voice
This could well be a second part of a Henderson and Geraghty double in the Dovecote, this once top class flat performer has equipped himself nicely since switching to hurdles. Winning his first two races very nicely at Bangor and Market Rasen he came here in a handicap hurdle and finished fourth under top weight. He was giving a lot of weight away that day which isn't ideal for a novice in a handicap, but that will have put him straight and he will be much more fit today. with Geraghty getting the leg up we will take him to land a quick fire double.
I will have to apologise for the Racing Plus chase as I cant even force myself to fancy anything, nothing jumps off the page but if I were to have a bet for interest id take Mister Hyde each way at 33s.
4:25 Kempton - Quaddick Lake
If you have watched Quaddick Lake's last two runs and haven't entered him in your notebook then you need to check yourself into the local loony bin. Two runs ago he was 3rd at Cheltenham behind the very progressive Mr Watson, he was very tentatively handled that day and was never closer than he was at the line. I don't even think Nick Scholfield went for the whip on board him that day. Naturally you would think next time out would be a breeze for him, alas that was not the case. Everything was going fine at Huntingdon before he had a rival fall directly in front of him, resulting in him losing 10 lengths off the back of the field. From that point he had no chance but incredibly he stayed on again to come 3rd once more and only 3 1/4 lengths off the winner Art Professor. If there is any justice in the world he will be winning today and with only a two pound rise in the handicap he is taken to win again, with some luck of course. (6/1)
4:40 Newcastle - Papa Caruso
Hopefully by this point we will all be so rich we wont even need a winner, but just in case we will take a chance with Papa Caruso from the Sue Smith yard. Since winning a race at Newcastle when a very heavy backed favourite in 2011 he hasn't won, saying that he has only had four runs since. Last time looked as if there was a bit of a revival coming however when a close up third to Kandari at Catterick. He jumped much better on the whole that day and if continuing his upward curve off a 1 pound lower rating should be very competitive here. (11/2)
That's all for the action today folks, but one more word in that my interview with Shirley Teasdale is still coming at some point next week. I will be posting it on my twitter account when I finally upload it, you can find me on @lukeyboy1325
UPDATE: On the news that Newcastle is off im throwing Picansort into the blog in the last at Lingfield, he is returning to some form and could go well. Being backed in so get on quick. (5/1)
NAP - Molotof
NB - Irish Saint
Happy Punting guys!
Friday, 15 February 2013
Saturday 16th February
Good morning everyone, I hope you enjoyed the Siobhan Miller post earlier this week and are ready for battle today. A real feast to sink our teeth into with top class racing from Ascot, Haydock and Wincanton, featuring the Kingwell Hurdle. Grandouet is a notable absentee from the field, but after a scare on Monday he is we on track for Cheltenham still.
Normal service was resumed last week with 4 winners and two seconds, lets hope to carry that form forward to this week. It was nice to see Wishfull Thinking get more black type to his name after living in the shadows for so long. That was probably his highlight this year unless going for the Ryanair at Cheltenham, it was also good to see Philip Hobbs with a big Saturday winner.
Marching on to this week and a pretty tough day of betting to go with it, the Kingwell is the feature at Wincanton. Christmas Hurdle runner up Raya Star opposes leading Champion hurdle hope Zarkandar, the latter is a warm order to oblige. The main action however comes from Ascot with the Ascot Chase catching the eye. King George runner up Captain Chris is the favourite today with Cue Card, Finian's Rainbow and Somersby all worthy opponents. As we lead up to Cheltenham expect more bubbles to be burst and some enhanced.
Lets begin with this weeks selections:
1:20 Wincanton - Workbench
The first runner in a busy day for Paul Nicholls and its one I have been following since debut. Ruby mentioned after his first bumper that he'd be winning over two miles. However he has taken a while to come into himself but has been improving all the time, notably by results. Last time at Plumpton he was 2nd to Pendra who himself has proved to be a very promising novice. A run of that standard should suffice this afternoon. (5/4)
2:20 Haydock - Kentford Grey Lady
Comes here today off of a top class performance when second in the Cleeve Hurdle behind Oscar Whisky and Reve De Sivola. Before then she was below par when third to Une Artist at Sandown after winning a handicap at the same course. A run like her last will be more than enough today and with her mares allowance she should notch up number 2 for the season. Leighton Aspell takes the ride today. (2/1)
2:40 Ascot - Tatenen
Richard Rowe's gelding is somewhat of an Ascot specialist these days winning here for the past two seasons. He has only run at Cheltenham in the Paddypower this year where he was sixth and well beaten. He will be much straighter for the run and back here should give a bold showing from the front. One of the nagging doubts is whether he stays the 3 miles, but of he gets into a rhythm he could be running them ragged today. (8/1)
2:55 Haydock - Triggerman
A gruelling task here in the National Trial won last year by Giles Cross, preference this year is for Triggerman though. With James Best claiming 3 he carries 9-12 which is a featherweight for this kind of race. Its also a stone less than Monbeg Dude and almost two stones less than Teaforthree. In receipt of this much weight and his stamina in no doubt he could well prove value here. He was a running on third in the Welsh National and was a close up fourth in the Bet365 Gold Cup. As long as his jumping holds up this afternoon he will prove more than good enough to win. (12/1)
3:05 Wincanton - Swincombe Stone
Anthony Honeyball's first time hurdler is todays NAP, and you may think somewhat of a weird one. He entered my notebook after I saw him win his bumper at Fontwell in very taking style. He was then off for a while before reappearing at Huntingdon when staying on under a softer ride. He is stepped up markedly in trip here which looks ideal for him and with race fitness on his side he will take all the beating. Very strong preference this afternoon. (9/2)
3:15 Ascot - The Bear Trap + Kuilsriver
In truth this was a hard race to make a selection, it would be nice for General Miller to win on his return. But we will take a chance with The Bear Trap for Rebecca Curtis and Tony McCoy. Two reasons for good confidence in this one in that the Champ does 10-4 here which is rare for him. He was doing a pound lower when he won on Mr Watson at Cheltenham on trials day. The second reason being that he is only one of two rides for McCoy today which is even more rare for a Saturday. The horse himself though is very progressive after an easy win at Ffos Las first up this season. He was then narrowly denied at the track last time, he heads to Ascot from Wales with full confidence today. (10/3) one more quick each way mention is Kuilsriver who I am very fond of, he is ultra consistent and off a fly weight here could go well at a price. (28/1)
3:25 Haydock - Creepy
Martin Keighley's gelding really impressed me when behind Coneygree at Cheltenham travelling well for a long way. Horses alot better than todays opposition quickened away from him but he stuck to his task. Before then he had finished a promising fourth in a competitive bumper also at Cheltenham. On his only other run he beat some useful types in a Fontwell bumper and is very progressive. It would appear connections have found a nice opening for him today and should break his maiden tag over hurdles. (7/2)
3:50 Ascot - Somersby
The second Ascot specialist in the blog this week in Somersby who reappeared at Trials Day. He proved no match for Sprinter Sacre that day and lack of race fitness Lost him 2nd place to Mad Moose. This time he will be spot on for the run and this trip round Ascot is perfect for him. Lst year he outbattled todays Rival Finian's Rainbow in the Victor Chandler, again today he should have his number. Though its an ultra competitive race Somersby has proven time and time again he is top class. Definitely one for the placepot and will definitely give you a run for your money. (5/1)
4:25 Ascot - River Maigue
In truth this race is a match, who else could it be between other than Nicky Henderson and Paul Nicholls. The youngster Far West represents the champion trainer and River Maigue for Nicky Henderson. The latter gives 9 pounds to his rival today but is very progressive and looks a lot stronger than Far West. In my mind he simply has too much speed for his rival today as well which should put him well on top. It should be noted that River Maigue is very prominent in the Supreme betting, but Far West this week has drifted in the Triumph betting. River Maigue to end our day on a high. (11/8)
NAP - Swincombe Stone
NB - Creepy
One last note that there should be another interview up this week as Shirley Teasdale has kindly agreed to talk with me.
Happy Punting this week guys, good luck
Normal service was resumed last week with 4 winners and two seconds, lets hope to carry that form forward to this week. It was nice to see Wishfull Thinking get more black type to his name after living in the shadows for so long. That was probably his highlight this year unless going for the Ryanair at Cheltenham, it was also good to see Philip Hobbs with a big Saturday winner.
Marching on to this week and a pretty tough day of betting to go with it, the Kingwell is the feature at Wincanton. Christmas Hurdle runner up Raya Star opposes leading Champion hurdle hope Zarkandar, the latter is a warm order to oblige. The main action however comes from Ascot with the Ascot Chase catching the eye. King George runner up Captain Chris is the favourite today with Cue Card, Finian's Rainbow and Somersby all worthy opponents. As we lead up to Cheltenham expect more bubbles to be burst and some enhanced.
Lets begin with this weeks selections:
1:20 Wincanton - Workbench
The first runner in a busy day for Paul Nicholls and its one I have been following since debut. Ruby mentioned after his first bumper that he'd be winning over two miles. However he has taken a while to come into himself but has been improving all the time, notably by results. Last time at Plumpton he was 2nd to Pendra who himself has proved to be a very promising novice. A run of that standard should suffice this afternoon. (5/4)
2:20 Haydock - Kentford Grey Lady
Comes here today off of a top class performance when second in the Cleeve Hurdle behind Oscar Whisky and Reve De Sivola. Before then she was below par when third to Une Artist at Sandown after winning a handicap at the same course. A run like her last will be more than enough today and with her mares allowance she should notch up number 2 for the season. Leighton Aspell takes the ride today. (2/1)
2:40 Ascot - Tatenen
Richard Rowe's gelding is somewhat of an Ascot specialist these days winning here for the past two seasons. He has only run at Cheltenham in the Paddypower this year where he was sixth and well beaten. He will be much straighter for the run and back here should give a bold showing from the front. One of the nagging doubts is whether he stays the 3 miles, but of he gets into a rhythm he could be running them ragged today. (8/1)
2:55 Haydock - Triggerman
A gruelling task here in the National Trial won last year by Giles Cross, preference this year is for Triggerman though. With James Best claiming 3 he carries 9-12 which is a featherweight for this kind of race. Its also a stone less than Monbeg Dude and almost two stones less than Teaforthree. In receipt of this much weight and his stamina in no doubt he could well prove value here. He was a running on third in the Welsh National and was a close up fourth in the Bet365 Gold Cup. As long as his jumping holds up this afternoon he will prove more than good enough to win. (12/1)
3:05 Wincanton - Swincombe Stone
Anthony Honeyball's first time hurdler is todays NAP, and you may think somewhat of a weird one. He entered my notebook after I saw him win his bumper at Fontwell in very taking style. He was then off for a while before reappearing at Huntingdon when staying on under a softer ride. He is stepped up markedly in trip here which looks ideal for him and with race fitness on his side he will take all the beating. Very strong preference this afternoon. (9/2)
3:15 Ascot - The Bear Trap + Kuilsriver
In truth this was a hard race to make a selection, it would be nice for General Miller to win on his return. But we will take a chance with The Bear Trap for Rebecca Curtis and Tony McCoy. Two reasons for good confidence in this one in that the Champ does 10-4 here which is rare for him. He was doing a pound lower when he won on Mr Watson at Cheltenham on trials day. The second reason being that he is only one of two rides for McCoy today which is even more rare for a Saturday. The horse himself though is very progressive after an easy win at Ffos Las first up this season. He was then narrowly denied at the track last time, he heads to Ascot from Wales with full confidence today. (10/3) one more quick each way mention is Kuilsriver who I am very fond of, he is ultra consistent and off a fly weight here could go well at a price. (28/1)
3:25 Haydock - Creepy
Martin Keighley's gelding really impressed me when behind Coneygree at Cheltenham travelling well for a long way. Horses alot better than todays opposition quickened away from him but he stuck to his task. Before then he had finished a promising fourth in a competitive bumper also at Cheltenham. On his only other run he beat some useful types in a Fontwell bumper and is very progressive. It would appear connections have found a nice opening for him today and should break his maiden tag over hurdles. (7/2)
3:50 Ascot - Somersby
The second Ascot specialist in the blog this week in Somersby who reappeared at Trials Day. He proved no match for Sprinter Sacre that day and lack of race fitness Lost him 2nd place to Mad Moose. This time he will be spot on for the run and this trip round Ascot is perfect for him. Lst year he outbattled todays Rival Finian's Rainbow in the Victor Chandler, again today he should have his number. Though its an ultra competitive race Somersby has proven time and time again he is top class. Definitely one for the placepot and will definitely give you a run for your money. (5/1)
4:25 Ascot - River Maigue
In truth this race is a match, who else could it be between other than Nicky Henderson and Paul Nicholls. The youngster Far West represents the champion trainer and River Maigue for Nicky Henderson. The latter gives 9 pounds to his rival today but is very progressive and looks a lot stronger than Far West. In my mind he simply has too much speed for his rival today as well which should put him well on top. It should be noted that River Maigue is very prominent in the Supreme betting, but Far West this week has drifted in the Triumph betting. River Maigue to end our day on a high. (11/8)
NAP - Swincombe Stone
NB - Creepy
One last note that there should be another interview up this week as Shirley Teasdale has kindly agreed to talk with me.
Happy Punting this week guys, good luck
Friday, 8 February 2013
Betfair Hurdle Day
Morning Racing fans, A huge day of racing ahead of us with the betfair hurdle being the highlight. Leopardstown also host a top class card with Flemenstar and Sir Des Champs clashing horns once again. Stamina doubts surround Peter Casey's gelding whereas the latter must jump better to win. There is also a Gold Cup trial at Newbury with Silviniaco Conti a hot favourite for the Denman Chase. One thing is for certain, after today a few Cheltenham Festival credentials will be tarnished and some boosted. Firstly a review of last week.
It wasnt the best of blogs last week, however it would have been a completely different story if Third Intention hadn't idled to be caught in the final strides. We stilled managed to get the reverse forecast with Captain Conan which paid just over 5/1 though. Third Intention remains a good hope for the Jewson in March, you would think he would have some kind of headgear on at Cheltenham which would help no end. That was all there was to write home about last week.
Onto some more exciting news, I have recently conducted an interview with an jockey to put on here for you guys. It should be up next week and hopefully it will be the first in a series.
On Monday the racing world was put in shock when a routine prep for the Champion hurdle resulted in Darlan losing his life. A last hurdle fall upsides Rock on Ruby when coming to win ended in tragedy as he and McCoy hit the deck. Heart breakingly only one returned to their feet, the champ was fine but stood himself down for the day. The only other thing I have to say on the matter is shame on anyone who blamed Tony McCoy for the accident. It was in no way his fault and im afraid they are just talking through their pockets. Things like this really separate the Gamblers from the real racing people in life.
But on that sad note we must continue with this weeks racing.
12:55 Warwick - Open Day
McCoy only has two rides at Warwick before getting in his helicopter and flying off to Newbury. Open Day is the first of these two, he went off the boil since winning a novice hurdle in 2010 at Sandown but has recently found form again. He recorded his first win since then at Leicester back in November when beating some useful types. Last time out however he was put well in his place by Dark Lover who is highly thought of by Paul Nicholls. He himself runs in the Betfair hurdle later on and the Nicholls yard was firing at the time. Open Day was comfortably ahead of Dan Breen and this looks a weaker race. (9/2) an each way selection for the race is the useful Red Inca for Brian Ellison's yard (11/1) and we will take the reverse forecast once again.
1:30 Warwick - Ma Filleule
The Champ's second mount at Warwick comes in the shape of Nicky Henderson's Ma Filleule, who is improving with every run. She has only had 3 runs in England winning one and finishing second in the other two, she also has two wins to her name in France. One of the big advantages in this race however is that she receives 5 pounds from most of her main rivals today. With the Henderson team in great form we will take Ma Filleule to complete the double for Tony McCoy. (7/2)
1:40 Uttoxeter - Stow
When I first saw this race my jaw dropped to see Stow running in a selling race. It is one of the better sellers you will see but with Patrick Corbett's claim Stow gets 12 pounds from his two main rivals. He has been running against much better opposition over the past few years and dips his toe in this class for the first time. He simply cant be ignored and looks a really good bet today considering the circumstances. (No Price yet)
1:50 Newbury - Captain Sunshine
I think im the only person in the country who has kept faith with Captain Sunshine this year. But last time he was staying on very strongly when coming down at the last in the Lanzarote. He was certainly booked for a place that day and its not out of the equation that he would have won the race. He 'refused' to race at Exeter which I blamed the starter for that as he didnt show any reluctance. However last time he looked to have his quirks at the start with a handler down with him. He is well worth a chance on his step up to 3 miles today as realistically it was always going to be his trip. (9/1)
2:25 Newbury - Mail De Bievre
Tom George hasnt been discreet with what he thinks about Mail De Bievre outlining him as a Gold Cup contender. Back in 2008/09 he was with Alan King winning a hurdle race at Exeter, in France it is Chasing in which he has earned his reputation. Along with that he earned a rating of 160 and with the weight received from Silviniaco Conti he is 2 pounds behind him. If fully wound up for this race which I suspect he will be as he was entered for a couple of other races. He is too good of a price to ignore with others having chinks in their armour, a solid each way bet. (8/1)
3:00 Newbury - Wishfull Thinking
This years Game Spirit fell apart at the seams when Simonsig was declared as a non runner. But at the same time it gives Wishfull thinking a fantastic chance to land another valuable 2 mile chase. There are many potential improvers, mostly Shooters Wood who is the choice of Ruby Walsh. But Wishfull Thinking looks clear of those and is guaranteed to go on the ground. This could be a big race win for Phillip Hobbs and Richard Johnson. (10/3)
3:15 Warwick - Dream Again Boys
Back to Warwick now for Maurice Linehan's mount Dream Again Boys. Without Linehan's claim he would be top weight, instead he carries 11-7 which makes his task one heck of a lot easier. It also means he isnt giving much weight away all throughout the field. He won at this time of year in 2012, which was also the only time Linehan has ridden him. But he won most recently last time out at Ffos Las under AP very easily, the money was down for him that day and he should carry it forward here. An added bonus is that Linehan rides Warwick particularly well which is a bonus in a race of this type. (6/1)
3:35 Newbury - Punjabi
The 2009 Champion Hurdle winner turns up here after a good comeback run in the Christmas hurdle. His Reappearance was the typical run after a long lay off, travels well for a long way and then faded quickly. Sensibly Barry Geraghty looked after him and let him come home in his own time. He will be much straighter for that run and off a rating of 145 he looks a steal, physically however he runs off of 140 with Jeremiah McGrath's claim. Rewind to 2009 before his injury and he is rated 166 meaning he is thrown in today off an easy rating. On Attheraces Barry Geraghty said 'there was still plenty of spark about him' which is good enough for me and he gets the nod today. (22/1)
4:10 Newbury - Hadrian's Approach
The appeal of this race will be around Unioniste stepping up to 3 miles for the first time, but preference is for Hadrian's Approach. Nicky Henderson's charge was second to Dynaste, but at Kempton in the Feltham. Newbury should be much more to his liking as he is a big lump of a horse that wouldnt have liked the speed of Kempton. The wide Galloping track of Newbury will be much more up his street and his proven stamina could be put into effect. His one visit to Newbury ended in a fall when well in contention and going well. That was one of the strongest Novice chases of this year so the form of it must be taken strongly. It helps that the stable really fancy this one tomorrow also, he takes the choice. (7/2)
4:25 Warwick - Chiberta King
The last choice of the day is also the NAP of the day with Andrew Balding's ex top class flat horse Chiberta King. He goes left handed again after winning nicely at Newbury last time out, there was plenty to like about that victory, especially his improved jumping. His first two starts at Ascot resulted in him jumping severely out to his left and throwing races away. If he had been started out left handed, he could well be unbeaten. Paddy Brennan comes over from Newbury for the one ride and it should be a winning one.
NAP - Chiberta King
NB - Stow
Aaaaaaaaand breathe! Hope you enjoyed todays read, good luck to everyone if you have a bet. Enjoy your weekend guys.
Happy Punting!
It wasnt the best of blogs last week, however it would have been a completely different story if Third Intention hadn't idled to be caught in the final strides. We stilled managed to get the reverse forecast with Captain Conan which paid just over 5/1 though. Third Intention remains a good hope for the Jewson in March, you would think he would have some kind of headgear on at Cheltenham which would help no end. That was all there was to write home about last week.
Onto some more exciting news, I have recently conducted an interview with an jockey to put on here for you guys. It should be up next week and hopefully it will be the first in a series.
On Monday the racing world was put in shock when a routine prep for the Champion hurdle resulted in Darlan losing his life. A last hurdle fall upsides Rock on Ruby when coming to win ended in tragedy as he and McCoy hit the deck. Heart breakingly only one returned to their feet, the champ was fine but stood himself down for the day. The only other thing I have to say on the matter is shame on anyone who blamed Tony McCoy for the accident. It was in no way his fault and im afraid they are just talking through their pockets. Things like this really separate the Gamblers from the real racing people in life.
But on that sad note we must continue with this weeks racing.
12:55 Warwick - Open Day
McCoy only has two rides at Warwick before getting in his helicopter and flying off to Newbury. Open Day is the first of these two, he went off the boil since winning a novice hurdle in 2010 at Sandown but has recently found form again. He recorded his first win since then at Leicester back in November when beating some useful types. Last time out however he was put well in his place by Dark Lover who is highly thought of by Paul Nicholls. He himself runs in the Betfair hurdle later on and the Nicholls yard was firing at the time. Open Day was comfortably ahead of Dan Breen and this looks a weaker race. (9/2) an each way selection for the race is the useful Red Inca for Brian Ellison's yard (11/1) and we will take the reverse forecast once again.
1:30 Warwick - Ma Filleule
The Champ's second mount at Warwick comes in the shape of Nicky Henderson's Ma Filleule, who is improving with every run. She has only had 3 runs in England winning one and finishing second in the other two, she also has two wins to her name in France. One of the big advantages in this race however is that she receives 5 pounds from most of her main rivals today. With the Henderson team in great form we will take Ma Filleule to complete the double for Tony McCoy. (7/2)
1:40 Uttoxeter - Stow
When I first saw this race my jaw dropped to see Stow running in a selling race. It is one of the better sellers you will see but with Patrick Corbett's claim Stow gets 12 pounds from his two main rivals. He has been running against much better opposition over the past few years and dips his toe in this class for the first time. He simply cant be ignored and looks a really good bet today considering the circumstances. (No Price yet)
1:50 Newbury - Captain Sunshine
I think im the only person in the country who has kept faith with Captain Sunshine this year. But last time he was staying on very strongly when coming down at the last in the Lanzarote. He was certainly booked for a place that day and its not out of the equation that he would have won the race. He 'refused' to race at Exeter which I blamed the starter for that as he didnt show any reluctance. However last time he looked to have his quirks at the start with a handler down with him. He is well worth a chance on his step up to 3 miles today as realistically it was always going to be his trip. (9/1)
2:25 Newbury - Mail De Bievre
Tom George hasnt been discreet with what he thinks about Mail De Bievre outlining him as a Gold Cup contender. Back in 2008/09 he was with Alan King winning a hurdle race at Exeter, in France it is Chasing in which he has earned his reputation. Along with that he earned a rating of 160 and with the weight received from Silviniaco Conti he is 2 pounds behind him. If fully wound up for this race which I suspect he will be as he was entered for a couple of other races. He is too good of a price to ignore with others having chinks in their armour, a solid each way bet. (8/1)
3:00 Newbury - Wishfull Thinking
This years Game Spirit fell apart at the seams when Simonsig was declared as a non runner. But at the same time it gives Wishfull thinking a fantastic chance to land another valuable 2 mile chase. There are many potential improvers, mostly Shooters Wood who is the choice of Ruby Walsh. But Wishfull Thinking looks clear of those and is guaranteed to go on the ground. This could be a big race win for Phillip Hobbs and Richard Johnson. (10/3)
3:15 Warwick - Dream Again Boys
Back to Warwick now for Maurice Linehan's mount Dream Again Boys. Without Linehan's claim he would be top weight, instead he carries 11-7 which makes his task one heck of a lot easier. It also means he isnt giving much weight away all throughout the field. He won at this time of year in 2012, which was also the only time Linehan has ridden him. But he won most recently last time out at Ffos Las under AP very easily, the money was down for him that day and he should carry it forward here. An added bonus is that Linehan rides Warwick particularly well which is a bonus in a race of this type. (6/1)
3:35 Newbury - Punjabi
The 2009 Champion Hurdle winner turns up here after a good comeback run in the Christmas hurdle. His Reappearance was the typical run after a long lay off, travels well for a long way and then faded quickly. Sensibly Barry Geraghty looked after him and let him come home in his own time. He will be much straighter for that run and off a rating of 145 he looks a steal, physically however he runs off of 140 with Jeremiah McGrath's claim. Rewind to 2009 before his injury and he is rated 166 meaning he is thrown in today off an easy rating. On Attheraces Barry Geraghty said 'there was still plenty of spark about him' which is good enough for me and he gets the nod today. (22/1)
4:10 Newbury - Hadrian's Approach
The appeal of this race will be around Unioniste stepping up to 3 miles for the first time, but preference is for Hadrian's Approach. Nicky Henderson's charge was second to Dynaste, but at Kempton in the Feltham. Newbury should be much more to his liking as he is a big lump of a horse that wouldnt have liked the speed of Kempton. The wide Galloping track of Newbury will be much more up his street and his proven stamina could be put into effect. His one visit to Newbury ended in a fall when well in contention and going well. That was one of the strongest Novice chases of this year so the form of it must be taken strongly. It helps that the stable really fancy this one tomorrow also, he takes the choice. (7/2)
4:25 Warwick - Chiberta King
The last choice of the day is also the NAP of the day with Andrew Balding's ex top class flat horse Chiberta King. He goes left handed again after winning nicely at Newbury last time out, there was plenty to like about that victory, especially his improved jumping. His first two starts at Ascot resulted in him jumping severely out to his left and throwing races away. If he had been started out left handed, he could well be unbeaten. Paddy Brennan comes over from Newbury for the one ride and it should be a winning one.
NAP - Chiberta King
NB - Stow
Aaaaaaaaand breathe! Hope you enjoyed todays read, good luck to everyone if you have a bet. Enjoy your weekend guys.
Happy Punting!
Friday, 1 February 2013
Sandown and Ffos Las 2nd February
Good Morning everybody, I hope we all slept well and are ready for a Saturday of racing. Today we race at Ffos Las, Sandown and Wetherby over jumps and Lingfield on the Polytrack. Focus however is at Sandown and Great Britain's newest racecourse Ffos Las.
The highlight of the Sandown card was expected to be the Contenders Hurdle won in the past by Binocular. JP McManus had the hot favourite for the race this year in Darlan, however the Hurdle course is waterlogged. For that reason Sandown host an all chase card featuring the Scilly Isles Novices Chase. This looks a bit more simple than driving round the same named roundabout just down the road from the course. I say this as Captain Conan is a warm order on his step up in trip and faces only three rivals for this task.
But before we start on today lets reminisce from last week. We managed to find three winners including the NAP in Katenko and the NB in Mr Watson. They were both 5/1 but we then struck gold when Vino Griego won by 19 lengths at 25/1. If you had combined these in a treble you would have been looking at, to my maths a 625/1 treble. Lets hope for something as good as that this week.
One last thing, I was going to put Pique Sous up as an ante post selection for the Supreme at 25/1. He bolted up at Dundalk last night in his prep run, he is now a best priced 20/1 which is still a very good price if you can get it. Another reason for this other than his Champion bumper 3rd is the fact it looks a very weak Supreme this year. Very few look top class but Pique Sous has beaten most of them from the Irish side at some point in his career. River Maigue and My Tent Or Yours look the biggest dangers right now but Pique Sous cant be ignored now even at 20/1.
Without further ado lets begin with this weeks action.
1:50 Sandown - Toubab
Ruby Walsh is a jockey that rides sandown particularly well and he comes here for 2 rides today. The first of which is the strong travelling Toubab who was beaten only 13 lengths by Sprinter Sacre last season at Aintree. This was after being bought down in the Grand Annual 4 out when still going well. He has run just once this season though when behind William's Wishes and Champion Court at Ascot. The form of that race is holding up quite nicely, with the winner considered good enough for the Queen Mother before injury struck. Champion Court is also one of the main protagonists in the Ryanair market and is my fancy for the race. Toubab however takes a slight dip in class here and off a pound lower rating can take our opener. (10/3)
2:05 Ffos Las - The Romford Pele
Over to Wales now and we have the Welsh Champion Hurdle which of course is now a Handicap over 2 and a half miles. That means no Oscar Whiskey this year, Tanerko Emery sports the Dai Walters silks instead. Preference however is for Rebecca Curtis' The Romford Pele who was 7th in last years Champion Bumper. However this year he is a fast improving Novice hurdler winning 2 out of 4 novice hurdles. His second run was 3 lengths behind Court Minstrel who is very highly thought of by connections. Since then he has won two novice hurdles at Taunton and Chepstow, the latter run takes the eye though. That was the first time he has tackled really heavy ground and he seemed to love it beating Sin Bin by 2 lengths. Patrick Corbett takes 7 pounds off today resulting in him Carrying well under 10 stone. For them reasons we will take him to progress again here and land the spoils. (10/1)
2.25 Sandown - Third Intention
Many people think that this looks a shoe in for Captain Conan at 4/9 on his first try at 2 and a half miles. However Third Intention is more than good enough to ruffle a few feathers and is grossly overpriced. He is still a maiden after four attempts over fence and has been beaten 8 lengths by Captain Conan twice. That was over 2 miles which these days for him is on the sharp side, he flew up the hill to grab third in the Henry VIII here at Sandown. This resulted in him stepping straight up to 3 miles in the Feltham at Kempton behind Dynaste. He matched the RSA favourite for a long time there before Dynaste showed his class. 2 and half miles is much more to his liking and I have been waiting for him to run over it all season. One last mention is that he won the National Spirit hurdle over this trip in an absolute canter. He is well worth a shot today and a reverse forecast with Captain Conan. (14/1)
2:40 Ffos Las - Makethe Mostofnow
Evan Williams gelding was gifted his first chase by Keppols Hill who made a horrific mistake at the last fence. Before then he was well behind but kept to his task well before being beaten soundly at Newbury. Everything came out of the Newbury race and franked the form and it remains one of the stronger Novice chases of the year. He then went to Lingfield where he hated the course and was never travelling well, that run is best forgotten. He now enters handicaps off a low weight which was always going to be his game. Its an added bonus that he can begin handicapping at his beloved Ffos Las where he is a perfect four from four. The flat Wales course suits him as he is a lovely big Galloping horse which was his downfall at Fontwell and Lingfield. He was also travelling well when in contention and bought down at Aintree last year in the Sefton. He could well prove popular in the market today and looks a really good each way price. (14/1)
3:00 Sandown - Mad Max
For an 11 year old Mad Max is pretty lightly raced, only visiting the racecourse a total of 17 times. He has won 6 of those, the last of them coming in 2010 but tries his hand in a Veterans' chase here. This is a big step down in class from running behind the likes of Master Minded and Sizing Europe. The ground wont be a problem here and he is usually a sound jumper to meet the demands of the Esher track. One more added bonus is the return of Barry Geraghty who has partnered him on 3 of his 6 victories. In a pretty weak race we will side with Mad Max to return to winning ways. (7/1)
3:35 Sandown - Keppols Hill
Ruby gets the leg up on his second ride of the day with novice Keppols Hill who will be in heaven today. If there was a race over 10 miles he would be the winner of it down to guts and extreme stamina. Viking Blond will ensure there is no hanging around today and I would expect Keppols Hill to be picking them off one by one. The biggest fear would be his jumping as he is prone to the odd race ending mistake, saying that he was much better last time. Should complete a Ruby Walsh double at Sandown. (2/1)
3:45 Ffos Las - Consigliere
Consigliere is an old favourite of mine and is always one to make a note of when the going gets like this. He is known for his trade as a chaser and after his win last time at Ayr he reverts to hurdles. With Kieron Edgar's claim he is 17 pounds lower over hurdles than fences and that must be noted. He won last time off 138 which is as good as he is really but could be contesting bigger races later this season. He could well hose up today and is preferred to others, Consigliere the choice. (3/1)
NAP - Mad Max
NB - Keppols Hill
Lets hope for another week like the last, its also worth noting that Sue Smith has a few nice runners up at Wetherby that are well worth checking out.
Happy Punting
The highlight of the Sandown card was expected to be the Contenders Hurdle won in the past by Binocular. JP McManus had the hot favourite for the race this year in Darlan, however the Hurdle course is waterlogged. For that reason Sandown host an all chase card featuring the Scilly Isles Novices Chase. This looks a bit more simple than driving round the same named roundabout just down the road from the course. I say this as Captain Conan is a warm order on his step up in trip and faces only three rivals for this task.
But before we start on today lets reminisce from last week. We managed to find three winners including the NAP in Katenko and the NB in Mr Watson. They were both 5/1 but we then struck gold when Vino Griego won by 19 lengths at 25/1. If you had combined these in a treble you would have been looking at, to my maths a 625/1 treble. Lets hope for something as good as that this week.
One last thing, I was going to put Pique Sous up as an ante post selection for the Supreme at 25/1. He bolted up at Dundalk last night in his prep run, he is now a best priced 20/1 which is still a very good price if you can get it. Another reason for this other than his Champion bumper 3rd is the fact it looks a very weak Supreme this year. Very few look top class but Pique Sous has beaten most of them from the Irish side at some point in his career. River Maigue and My Tent Or Yours look the biggest dangers right now but Pique Sous cant be ignored now even at 20/1.
Without further ado lets begin with this weeks action.
1:50 Sandown - Toubab
Ruby Walsh is a jockey that rides sandown particularly well and he comes here for 2 rides today. The first of which is the strong travelling Toubab who was beaten only 13 lengths by Sprinter Sacre last season at Aintree. This was after being bought down in the Grand Annual 4 out when still going well. He has run just once this season though when behind William's Wishes and Champion Court at Ascot. The form of that race is holding up quite nicely, with the winner considered good enough for the Queen Mother before injury struck. Champion Court is also one of the main protagonists in the Ryanair market and is my fancy for the race. Toubab however takes a slight dip in class here and off a pound lower rating can take our opener. (10/3)
2:05 Ffos Las - The Romford Pele
Over to Wales now and we have the Welsh Champion Hurdle which of course is now a Handicap over 2 and a half miles. That means no Oscar Whiskey this year, Tanerko Emery sports the Dai Walters silks instead. Preference however is for Rebecca Curtis' The Romford Pele who was 7th in last years Champion Bumper. However this year he is a fast improving Novice hurdler winning 2 out of 4 novice hurdles. His second run was 3 lengths behind Court Minstrel who is very highly thought of by connections. Since then he has won two novice hurdles at Taunton and Chepstow, the latter run takes the eye though. That was the first time he has tackled really heavy ground and he seemed to love it beating Sin Bin by 2 lengths. Patrick Corbett takes 7 pounds off today resulting in him Carrying well under 10 stone. For them reasons we will take him to progress again here and land the spoils. (10/1)
2.25 Sandown - Third Intention
Many people think that this looks a shoe in for Captain Conan at 4/9 on his first try at 2 and a half miles. However Third Intention is more than good enough to ruffle a few feathers and is grossly overpriced. He is still a maiden after four attempts over fence and has been beaten 8 lengths by Captain Conan twice. That was over 2 miles which these days for him is on the sharp side, he flew up the hill to grab third in the Henry VIII here at Sandown. This resulted in him stepping straight up to 3 miles in the Feltham at Kempton behind Dynaste. He matched the RSA favourite for a long time there before Dynaste showed his class. 2 and half miles is much more to his liking and I have been waiting for him to run over it all season. One last mention is that he won the National Spirit hurdle over this trip in an absolute canter. He is well worth a shot today and a reverse forecast with Captain Conan. (14/1)
2:40 Ffos Las - Makethe Mostofnow
Evan Williams gelding was gifted his first chase by Keppols Hill who made a horrific mistake at the last fence. Before then he was well behind but kept to his task well before being beaten soundly at Newbury. Everything came out of the Newbury race and franked the form and it remains one of the stronger Novice chases of the year. He then went to Lingfield where he hated the course and was never travelling well, that run is best forgotten. He now enters handicaps off a low weight which was always going to be his game. Its an added bonus that he can begin handicapping at his beloved Ffos Las where he is a perfect four from four. The flat Wales course suits him as he is a lovely big Galloping horse which was his downfall at Fontwell and Lingfield. He was also travelling well when in contention and bought down at Aintree last year in the Sefton. He could well prove popular in the market today and looks a really good each way price. (14/1)
3:00 Sandown - Mad Max
For an 11 year old Mad Max is pretty lightly raced, only visiting the racecourse a total of 17 times. He has won 6 of those, the last of them coming in 2010 but tries his hand in a Veterans' chase here. This is a big step down in class from running behind the likes of Master Minded and Sizing Europe. The ground wont be a problem here and he is usually a sound jumper to meet the demands of the Esher track. One more added bonus is the return of Barry Geraghty who has partnered him on 3 of his 6 victories. In a pretty weak race we will side with Mad Max to return to winning ways. (7/1)
3:35 Sandown - Keppols Hill
Ruby gets the leg up on his second ride of the day with novice Keppols Hill who will be in heaven today. If there was a race over 10 miles he would be the winner of it down to guts and extreme stamina. Viking Blond will ensure there is no hanging around today and I would expect Keppols Hill to be picking them off one by one. The biggest fear would be his jumping as he is prone to the odd race ending mistake, saying that he was much better last time. Should complete a Ruby Walsh double at Sandown. (2/1)
3:45 Ffos Las - Consigliere
Consigliere is an old favourite of mine and is always one to make a note of when the going gets like this. He is known for his trade as a chaser and after his win last time at Ayr he reverts to hurdles. With Kieron Edgar's claim he is 17 pounds lower over hurdles than fences and that must be noted. He won last time off 138 which is as good as he is really but could be contesting bigger races later this season. He could well hose up today and is preferred to others, Consigliere the choice. (3/1)
NAP - Mad Max
NB - Keppols Hill
Lets hope for another week like the last, its also worth noting that Sue Smith has a few nice runners up at Wetherby that are well worth checking out.
Happy Punting
Friday, 25 January 2013
Festival Trials Day
Good Morning everybody, I trust you all slept well and werent too excited by the prospect of jumps racing returning. We have already lost the meeting at Doncaster, which is particularly annoying to me as Grandouet misses out on his prep for March. I suspect he will now go to the Morebattle hurdle up at Kelso won last year by Simonsig for the same stable.
But there are more trials at Prestbury Park today with the Cleeve Hurdle, featuring Oscar Whisky returning to three miles. He takes on long walk winner Reve De Sivola and Paul Nicholls' Kauto Stone. More importantly the 2010 Gold Cup winner returns in the Argento, of course I speak of Imperial Commander. If he were to get his head in front today there will be the biggest cheer at Cheltenham until March.
One last thing is an apology, there was no blog last week, this was a mix of two reasons, firstly that the racing was awful. Only the all weather in action due to the snow and frost, but the main reason was because I was camping. I l know, who goes camping in the winter time? Canadians apparently, but despite a little burn mark on my hand from the campfire im back in one piece.
But if it is ok with you guys, we will leave my drunken exploits behind us and focus on some racing. Here we go!
12:10 Cheltenham - Irish Saint
The first race can go to the Champion trainer who saddles the very impressive Kempton winner Irish Saint. He could hardly have been more taking that day, dealing out an 18 length victory to Mcvicar. Nicholls reported him to not be fully wound up for that race, if he has improved for the run we could be in for a real treat. He faces worthy opponents however in Nicky Henderson's 'Rolling Star' and Jonjo's 'Last Shadow'. We will take Irish Saint to make it 2 from 2 in England for our opener on trials day though. (6/4)
12:40 Cheltenham - Vino Griego
Gary Moore's runners always have to be respected here, and Vino Griego was fourth at the festival two years ago behind Divers. He has a tendency to be a bit hit and miss, but if you catch him on a going day then he can make his price look silly. today could well be one of those ocassions, at Ascot his race ended before it got going when he departed at the 2nd fence. But since he has run a great race at Plumpton behind Salden Licht and ahead of Vulcanite. That run throws him in with a real chance here and is a more than interesting each way proposition. (16/1)
1:15 Cheltenham - Katenko
Katenko is actually my Dark horse for the Gold Cup come March, he is around 50/1 for that race. Today is an easier task, he entered my reckonings when winning very well at Sandown. He looked that day as if he has bags of room for improvement, putting Johns Spirit and the reopposing Fruity O'Rooney well in their place. This is only his 3rd chase and fourth start in England, his only other chase he was runner up to Wyck Hill (another Gold Cup entrant). But off a mark of 147 this exciting young strapping chaser simply cant be ignored. Landing him the burden of being today's NAP. (5/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Somersby
Somersby has his first run for Mick Channon today and while he is unlikely to ruffle the feathers of Sprinter Sacre, he is a tasty each way price. He is also 7/4 in the betting without Sprinter Sacre behind only Sanctuaire whom he aims to reverse Sandown form. I will quietly be cheering Sanctuaire on today but will wait for Cheltenham and Better ground to back him. Somersby won this race last year when at its usual track of Ascot, obviously that was abandoned, hence our predicament today. His stamina may just help him out in todays ground and id be surprised were he to be out of the placings. (12/1)
2:25 Cheltenham - Imperial Commander
News is beginning to come that Tidal Bay is a non runner today, if there is any truth to that then the race loses some of its gloss. But there are questions over most of the other runners today, so we take a chance on Imperial Commander. If he is fit enough and retains his ability then he should take some beating on his belated return from injury. Paddy Brennan retains the ride of course which is nothing but a positive, he knows the horse inside out and you will do well to find a better jockey riding. A tentative vote goes towards the 2010 Gold Cup hero today. (6/1)
3:00 Cheltenham - Coneygree
Mark Bradstock's gelding is one of the Cheltenham hot pots right now after his 2 wins here, one of which all but over course and distance. He is being aimed for the 3 mile Albert Bartlett however, today is only two and a half miles. He probably lacks a few gears but he will never stop running and today that could be just what the doctor ordered. Also The New One in my mind is a bit overrated, no disrespect meant to him but today will be his biggest test to date and is well worth opposing. Coneygree the selection though. (5/2)
3:35 Cheltenham - Kauto Stone
A very intriguing runner here for the Champion trainer in that Kauto Stone steps down to hurdles today. This could prove to be an inspired move as Kauto Stone has been prone to make a few mistakes. There is a Paul Nicholls horse that went from Chasing to Hurdling a few years back, but the name escapes me.... Nope cant remember, Big something? Of course I jest. But Kauto stone could prove a nice priced winner getting 8 pounds from the top two here, he is almost an each way price. Could well just have slipped under the radar here. (15/2)
4:10 Cheltenham - Mr Watson
If you are anywhere near the course today and you hear something that sounds like an earthquake, dont be alarmed, it will be Tony McCoy's Stomach. He has fasted himself down to 10-3 for this ride here today, which I am informed is his lowest weight for 12 months. The champ rarely gets himself down to a weight this low, but when he does they rarely disappoint. Mr Watson was bought for £215,000 at the Cheltenham sales and settled much better in the hood at Plumpton last time when winning. Looks a real solid bet. (5/1)
NAP - Katenko
NB - Mr Watson
Lets hope for a good day and line our pockets on the build up to the Festival in March. Personally I have booked my flights back for the 5th March, feel free to greet me at the airport.
Happy Punting guys!
But there are more trials at Prestbury Park today with the Cleeve Hurdle, featuring Oscar Whisky returning to three miles. He takes on long walk winner Reve De Sivola and Paul Nicholls' Kauto Stone. More importantly the 2010 Gold Cup winner returns in the Argento, of course I speak of Imperial Commander. If he were to get his head in front today there will be the biggest cheer at Cheltenham until March.
One last thing is an apology, there was no blog last week, this was a mix of two reasons, firstly that the racing was awful. Only the all weather in action due to the snow and frost, but the main reason was because I was camping. I l know, who goes camping in the winter time? Canadians apparently, but despite a little burn mark on my hand from the campfire im back in one piece.
But if it is ok with you guys, we will leave my drunken exploits behind us and focus on some racing. Here we go!
12:10 Cheltenham - Irish Saint
The first race can go to the Champion trainer who saddles the very impressive Kempton winner Irish Saint. He could hardly have been more taking that day, dealing out an 18 length victory to Mcvicar. Nicholls reported him to not be fully wound up for that race, if he has improved for the run we could be in for a real treat. He faces worthy opponents however in Nicky Henderson's 'Rolling Star' and Jonjo's 'Last Shadow'. We will take Irish Saint to make it 2 from 2 in England for our opener on trials day though. (6/4)
12:40 Cheltenham - Vino Griego
Gary Moore's runners always have to be respected here, and Vino Griego was fourth at the festival two years ago behind Divers. He has a tendency to be a bit hit and miss, but if you catch him on a going day then he can make his price look silly. today could well be one of those ocassions, at Ascot his race ended before it got going when he departed at the 2nd fence. But since he has run a great race at Plumpton behind Salden Licht and ahead of Vulcanite. That run throws him in with a real chance here and is a more than interesting each way proposition. (16/1)
1:15 Cheltenham - Katenko
Katenko is actually my Dark horse for the Gold Cup come March, he is around 50/1 for that race. Today is an easier task, he entered my reckonings when winning very well at Sandown. He looked that day as if he has bags of room for improvement, putting Johns Spirit and the reopposing Fruity O'Rooney well in their place. This is only his 3rd chase and fourth start in England, his only other chase he was runner up to Wyck Hill (another Gold Cup entrant). But off a mark of 147 this exciting young strapping chaser simply cant be ignored. Landing him the burden of being today's NAP. (5/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Somersby
Somersby has his first run for Mick Channon today and while he is unlikely to ruffle the feathers of Sprinter Sacre, he is a tasty each way price. He is also 7/4 in the betting without Sprinter Sacre behind only Sanctuaire whom he aims to reverse Sandown form. I will quietly be cheering Sanctuaire on today but will wait for Cheltenham and Better ground to back him. Somersby won this race last year when at its usual track of Ascot, obviously that was abandoned, hence our predicament today. His stamina may just help him out in todays ground and id be surprised were he to be out of the placings. (12/1)
2:25 Cheltenham - Imperial Commander
News is beginning to come that Tidal Bay is a non runner today, if there is any truth to that then the race loses some of its gloss. But there are questions over most of the other runners today, so we take a chance on Imperial Commander. If he is fit enough and retains his ability then he should take some beating on his belated return from injury. Paddy Brennan retains the ride of course which is nothing but a positive, he knows the horse inside out and you will do well to find a better jockey riding. A tentative vote goes towards the 2010 Gold Cup hero today. (6/1)
3:00 Cheltenham - Coneygree
Mark Bradstock's gelding is one of the Cheltenham hot pots right now after his 2 wins here, one of which all but over course and distance. He is being aimed for the 3 mile Albert Bartlett however, today is only two and a half miles. He probably lacks a few gears but he will never stop running and today that could be just what the doctor ordered. Also The New One in my mind is a bit overrated, no disrespect meant to him but today will be his biggest test to date and is well worth opposing. Coneygree the selection though. (5/2)
3:35 Cheltenham - Kauto Stone
A very intriguing runner here for the Champion trainer in that Kauto Stone steps down to hurdles today. This could prove to be an inspired move as Kauto Stone has been prone to make a few mistakes. There is a Paul Nicholls horse that went from Chasing to Hurdling a few years back, but the name escapes me.... Nope cant remember, Big something? Of course I jest. But Kauto stone could prove a nice priced winner getting 8 pounds from the top two here, he is almost an each way price. Could well just have slipped under the radar here. (15/2)
4:10 Cheltenham - Mr Watson
If you are anywhere near the course today and you hear something that sounds like an earthquake, dont be alarmed, it will be Tony McCoy's Stomach. He has fasted himself down to 10-3 for this ride here today, which I am informed is his lowest weight for 12 months. The champ rarely gets himself down to a weight this low, but when he does they rarely disappoint. Mr Watson was bought for £215,000 at the Cheltenham sales and settled much better in the hood at Plumpton last time when winning. Looks a real solid bet. (5/1)
NAP - Katenko
NB - Mr Watson
Lets hope for a good day and line our pockets on the build up to the Festival in March. Personally I have booked my flights back for the 5th March, feel free to greet me at the airport.
Happy Punting guys!
Friday, 28 December 2012
Saturday 29th December - Challow Hurdle Day
I write the start of today's blog on the Skytrain, venturing across Vancouver. Friends back home often ask what a Skytrain is, their logic and common sense escapes me sometimes. Fortunately the racing is better than their questions.
Newbury host the card with the Challow hurdle on, won last year by the unlucky Fingal Bay. Whereas Hurricane Fly is out to boost his Champion hurdle credentials at Leopardstown, who are hosting their winter festival. Some Irish Cheltenham bubbles were somewhat burst yesterday, and others strongly boosted.
Yesterday we saw Monksland steered to victory by the awesome Paul Carberry, after the ride i quoted it as ride of the year. This earned him quotes of 7/1 for the World Hurdle in March, which he may go straight to. He was then outdone later in the afternoon, firstly on the novice Back In Focus who chinned Aupcharlie on the line. Lifted to victory by Ruby Walsh, he wasnt satisfied with that, he then one upped himself on the enigma that is Tidal Bay. He would have been one of the competitors you would have ruled out down the back straight. But Mr Walsh called on his mounts seemingly endless supply of stamina and got up again on the line. Even 50 yards from home it looked unlikely, stuck behind Flemenstar and with First Lieutenant and Sir Des Champs on either side. Ruby thread the eye of a needle and managed to keep momentum on his side through the finish.
There are a few Cheltenham profiles on show today, none as strong as yesterday however. As I reach the end of my journey we shall kick start our Saturday and begin the action. Enjoy.
1:15 Doncaster - Pere Blanc
This one may seem an odd choice to kick things off with seeing that he has been off the track for 648 days. When last seen on the track however he was a rapidly progressing hurdler for David Arbuthnot winning three races easily. He now tries his hand at Chasing for the yard of John Ferguson ridden by Denis O'Regan. The yard has been flying as of late with their latest winner being Chat Room yesterday at Catterick. He has shown on more than one occasion this year he is capable of getting them out first time, even after this long break. In bumpers he was 18 lengths behind Oscar Whisky and 13 3/4 lengths behind Rock on Ruby. It is also worth noting that he has been entered before this season and withdrawn, which could mean he is ready to run not just looking for a pipeopener.
1:35 Newbury - Bury Parade
The ex northern based horse, now with Paul Nicholls carries a 7 pound penalty for his 2 length beating of Super Duty. Who has since gone on to land a valuable novice chase at Cheltenham, the 3rd placed horse, Yurok, has also won since when beating Aland Islands. Merry King was fourth in that race and franked the form further with his second in the Tommy Whittle, beaten a short head by Cannington Brook. The form of that race is rock solid and chasing has always been the look he has given over hurdles. Despite the strong but select field he looks the pick and should defy his penalty. I have followed this horse since he defeated one of my horses to follow in Pinerolo easily at Hexham, he looks to be going places over fences. (7/2)
2:10 Newbury - Rey Nacarado
Rey Nacarado is 1 pound higher than when landing this race a year ago and hails from a stable in fine form. The most eye catching factor however is that Charlie Longsdon books Tony McCoy for the ride today. He is rarely used by this stable but when he is it must be noted and taken down. He was a decent fourth over course and distance last time in an amateur riders race but the booking of the champ could well see him over the line in front here today. (7/2)
2:35 Leopardstown - Zuzka
Zuzkan is tough as old boots and took on the boys last time passing with flying colours, she was beaten 2 1/2 lengths by the top class Jezki and was only a length behind Champagne Fever. She steps down in class here into a mares race and could just have one eye on the mares hurdle at Cheltenham. Paddy Mullins takes the ride today as Ruby is on Glens Melody, but Willie has been trying desperately to get his son one more winner before the year end. He needs one more winner to ride the most winners as an Amateur in one season. Zuzka looks to be the horse to do that for him and is a very strong bet today. (6/4)
2:45 Newbury - Taquin Du Seuil
Taquin Du Seuil is held in very high regard by Jonjo and AP and improved alot last time to give a pounding to the expensive Le Bec. He won very cosily that day and is expected to improve again for today. He was defeated by My Tent Or Yours first time over hurdles, but was then upped in trip resulting in a smooth success at Sandown. He is 16/1 for the Neptune right now, and a win here would see that price tighten some more. I fully expect him to follow Zuzka in visiting the winners enclosure and could make it a good 10 minutes for us. (15/8)
2:55 Doncaster - Fill The Power
Sue Smith's Gelding has only ran in 3 chases but was 2nd on handicap debut last time to Wyck Hill. The winner has boosted that form by following up at Ascot beating Roberto Goldback comprehensively. He will most probably be ridden agressively today to take advantage of his strong staying power. jumping is also not a problem as he practically steps over his fences due to his size. Sue Smith has been in pretty good form lately and now is around the time of year she starts firing in a few winners. Fill The Power could well be one of them here today. (5/1)
3:50 Newbury - Chatterbox
Chatterbox has been all the rage on the gallops at Seven Barrows with reports of how good he has been schooling. He won his only start to date when winning a bumper at Huntingdon in good style. Nicky Henderson won this last year with All The Aces, he looks set to win this again as he saddles My Tent Or Yours and of course Chatterbox. Due to The former being owned by JP McManus, Tony McCoy rides him, meaning Barry Geraghty is free to ride the selection. Granted it will be a tough race to win but he could well be an each way price and should be at least placed. (No Price Yet)
A few short priced ones and it could be a day for multiples, but lets hope for a few winners to refund the hole in our wallets Christmas left.
NAP - Taquin Du Seuil
NB - Zuzka
Happy Punting guys
Newbury host the card with the Challow hurdle on, won last year by the unlucky Fingal Bay. Whereas Hurricane Fly is out to boost his Champion hurdle credentials at Leopardstown, who are hosting their winter festival. Some Irish Cheltenham bubbles were somewhat burst yesterday, and others strongly boosted.
Yesterday we saw Monksland steered to victory by the awesome Paul Carberry, after the ride i quoted it as ride of the year. This earned him quotes of 7/1 for the World Hurdle in March, which he may go straight to. He was then outdone later in the afternoon, firstly on the novice Back In Focus who chinned Aupcharlie on the line. Lifted to victory by Ruby Walsh, he wasnt satisfied with that, he then one upped himself on the enigma that is Tidal Bay. He would have been one of the competitors you would have ruled out down the back straight. But Mr Walsh called on his mounts seemingly endless supply of stamina and got up again on the line. Even 50 yards from home it looked unlikely, stuck behind Flemenstar and with First Lieutenant and Sir Des Champs on either side. Ruby thread the eye of a needle and managed to keep momentum on his side through the finish.
There are a few Cheltenham profiles on show today, none as strong as yesterday however. As I reach the end of my journey we shall kick start our Saturday and begin the action. Enjoy.
1:15 Doncaster - Pere Blanc
This one may seem an odd choice to kick things off with seeing that he has been off the track for 648 days. When last seen on the track however he was a rapidly progressing hurdler for David Arbuthnot winning three races easily. He now tries his hand at Chasing for the yard of John Ferguson ridden by Denis O'Regan. The yard has been flying as of late with their latest winner being Chat Room yesterday at Catterick. He has shown on more than one occasion this year he is capable of getting them out first time, even after this long break. In bumpers he was 18 lengths behind Oscar Whisky and 13 3/4 lengths behind Rock on Ruby. It is also worth noting that he has been entered before this season and withdrawn, which could mean he is ready to run not just looking for a pipeopener.
1:35 Newbury - Bury Parade
The ex northern based horse, now with Paul Nicholls carries a 7 pound penalty for his 2 length beating of Super Duty. Who has since gone on to land a valuable novice chase at Cheltenham, the 3rd placed horse, Yurok, has also won since when beating Aland Islands. Merry King was fourth in that race and franked the form further with his second in the Tommy Whittle, beaten a short head by Cannington Brook. The form of that race is rock solid and chasing has always been the look he has given over hurdles. Despite the strong but select field he looks the pick and should defy his penalty. I have followed this horse since he defeated one of my horses to follow in Pinerolo easily at Hexham, he looks to be going places over fences. (7/2)
2:10 Newbury - Rey Nacarado
Rey Nacarado is 1 pound higher than when landing this race a year ago and hails from a stable in fine form. The most eye catching factor however is that Charlie Longsdon books Tony McCoy for the ride today. He is rarely used by this stable but when he is it must be noted and taken down. He was a decent fourth over course and distance last time in an amateur riders race but the booking of the champ could well see him over the line in front here today. (7/2)
2:35 Leopardstown - Zuzka
Zuzkan is tough as old boots and took on the boys last time passing with flying colours, she was beaten 2 1/2 lengths by the top class Jezki and was only a length behind Champagne Fever. She steps down in class here into a mares race and could just have one eye on the mares hurdle at Cheltenham. Paddy Mullins takes the ride today as Ruby is on Glens Melody, but Willie has been trying desperately to get his son one more winner before the year end. He needs one more winner to ride the most winners as an Amateur in one season. Zuzka looks to be the horse to do that for him and is a very strong bet today. (6/4)
2:45 Newbury - Taquin Du Seuil
Taquin Du Seuil is held in very high regard by Jonjo and AP and improved alot last time to give a pounding to the expensive Le Bec. He won very cosily that day and is expected to improve again for today. He was defeated by My Tent Or Yours first time over hurdles, but was then upped in trip resulting in a smooth success at Sandown. He is 16/1 for the Neptune right now, and a win here would see that price tighten some more. I fully expect him to follow Zuzka in visiting the winners enclosure and could make it a good 10 minutes for us. (15/8)
2:55 Doncaster - Fill The Power
Sue Smith's Gelding has only ran in 3 chases but was 2nd on handicap debut last time to Wyck Hill. The winner has boosted that form by following up at Ascot beating Roberto Goldback comprehensively. He will most probably be ridden agressively today to take advantage of his strong staying power. jumping is also not a problem as he practically steps over his fences due to his size. Sue Smith has been in pretty good form lately and now is around the time of year she starts firing in a few winners. Fill The Power could well be one of them here today. (5/1)
3:50 Newbury - Chatterbox
Chatterbox has been all the rage on the gallops at Seven Barrows with reports of how good he has been schooling. He won his only start to date when winning a bumper at Huntingdon in good style. Nicky Henderson won this last year with All The Aces, he looks set to win this again as he saddles My Tent Or Yours and of course Chatterbox. Due to The former being owned by JP McManus, Tony McCoy rides him, meaning Barry Geraghty is free to ride the selection. Granted it will be a tough race to win but he could well be an each way price and should be at least placed. (No Price Yet)
A few short priced ones and it could be a day for multiples, but lets hope for a few winners to refund the hole in our wallets Christmas left.
NAP - Taquin Du Seuil
NB - Zuzka
Happy Punting guys
Saturday, 22 December 2012
Long Walk and Tommy Whittle Day
I write this after returning from our yearly staff party, in the raffle the top prize was a 42 inch flat screen TV. Of course I won bath soaps (passion fruit) some cheese and wine. Please form an orderly queue to take a bath with smelly cheese and white wine with yours truly.
Onto more pressing matters and a cracking day of racing at Ascot and hopefully Haydock. Lets start shall we?
1:30 Ascot - Cedre Bleu
Paul Nicholls is without Big Bucks this week, but Cedre Bleu can claim some slight compensation here. The soft ground wont hinder him in the slightest and is still relatively unexposed over fences. He had a nice pipe opener at Newbury last time when a very close fourth under top weight. Today he should build on that with Ruby back on board and everything seemingly in his favour, including 7 pounds from rival Solix. Ian Williams' Gelding is useful in his own right, but cant be trusted in the jumping department. Therefore a very confident vote goes to Cedre Bleu. (6/4)
1:45 Haydock - Bakbenscher
Choc Thornton is at Ascot to ride Balder Succes today, Wayne Hutchinson fills in for today however and is more than capable. Bakbenscher was beaten a long way last time, but there is more to it than meets the eye. He was almost bought down on 3 occasions and recovered each time, he was bang in contention turning for home, but tired. Previously he had run well at Chepstow and a line can be put through his Newbury run. So long as the meeting is on today he will enjoy the ground and must have a good chance. The presence of Hollow Tree means he runs off of lower than 11 stone which could be vital in this ground. (8/1)
2:00 Ascot - Master Of The Hall
Barry Geraghty shuns Master Of The Hall here for stable mate Cucumber run. AP is far from a stranger to this horse though after riding on debut and over fences at Kelso. He reverts back to hurdles today and with no Big Buck's lining up, its a wide open contest. 2010 was his last run over hurdles but in truth he looks like more of the hurdling type and should show well. The ground isn't a worry either with multiple wins on soft ground and has proved himself over the distance, Including a chase win at This track. On seasonal reappearance he was well put in his place by Silviniaco Conti, but he should strip fitter for that run and the form is red hot from the race. On that form he could prove the one to be with and is fantastic each way value. (8/1)
2:15 Haydock - Douglas Julian
Sue Smith has planned this race for Douglas Julian since his Kelso win a fortnight ago. The heavy ground has come that she wanted and there is alot in his favour, staying power being one of them. The mix of staying power and a low weight could be lethal here, Jonathan England takes a further 7 pounds off his back and is better than your average claimer. There are alot of dangers in the race but Douglas Julian could well be good enough to land the Tommy Whittle. (7/1)
2:35 Ascot - Hey Big Spender
Colin Tizzard's charge was fancied in the Peterborough which has been abandoned twice this season. He has always been a sound jumper but one mistake seems to hold him back here and then, a clear round will see him round in front today. His trainer went on record as saying he is a stone better in heavy ground, which would make it seem as if he needs this ground. Others may struggle in it here. The only negative is that he is second top weight and must give alot away to the others. He still represents good value however and should take some beating on seasonal debut. (4/1)
3:10 Ascot - Olofi
Olofi was a pretty impressive winner last time out at Cheltenham on testing ground. Paddy Brennan once again takes the ride and an 8 pound rise in the weights shouldnt be enough hold him back. Tom George gave a positive write up in the Racing Post about Olofi this week and early money is key to him. Though there are a number of unexposed types in the field, yet he could still have a shade more improvement in him. Olofi is taken to land the odds today in the Ladbroke. (9/1)
Bothy - He was behind Olofi at Cheltenham and has since gone on to run well for a long way in the Fighting Fifth behind Countrywide Flame. That is top form but he was well beat in truth. The most interesting part about his run here today is regular jockey Danny Cook is at Haydock. Seven pound claimer Patrick Corbett takes the ride instead, putting him on a more than winable mark. Bothy is always a horse to follow on testing ground, which is why he is an each way selection today at glamorous odds. (28/1)
As im writing this Haydock has been given the green light, so lets look forward to a big day and many winners.
Happy Punting
Onto more pressing matters and a cracking day of racing at Ascot and hopefully Haydock. Lets start shall we?
1:30 Ascot - Cedre Bleu
Paul Nicholls is without Big Bucks this week, but Cedre Bleu can claim some slight compensation here. The soft ground wont hinder him in the slightest and is still relatively unexposed over fences. He had a nice pipe opener at Newbury last time when a very close fourth under top weight. Today he should build on that with Ruby back on board and everything seemingly in his favour, including 7 pounds from rival Solix. Ian Williams' Gelding is useful in his own right, but cant be trusted in the jumping department. Therefore a very confident vote goes to Cedre Bleu. (6/4)
1:45 Haydock - Bakbenscher
Choc Thornton is at Ascot to ride Balder Succes today, Wayne Hutchinson fills in for today however and is more than capable. Bakbenscher was beaten a long way last time, but there is more to it than meets the eye. He was almost bought down on 3 occasions and recovered each time, he was bang in contention turning for home, but tired. Previously he had run well at Chepstow and a line can be put through his Newbury run. So long as the meeting is on today he will enjoy the ground and must have a good chance. The presence of Hollow Tree means he runs off of lower than 11 stone which could be vital in this ground. (8/1)
2:00 Ascot - Master Of The Hall
Barry Geraghty shuns Master Of The Hall here for stable mate Cucumber run. AP is far from a stranger to this horse though after riding on debut and over fences at Kelso. He reverts back to hurdles today and with no Big Buck's lining up, its a wide open contest. 2010 was his last run over hurdles but in truth he looks like more of the hurdling type and should show well. The ground isn't a worry either with multiple wins on soft ground and has proved himself over the distance, Including a chase win at This track. On seasonal reappearance he was well put in his place by Silviniaco Conti, but he should strip fitter for that run and the form is red hot from the race. On that form he could prove the one to be with and is fantastic each way value. (8/1)
2:15 Haydock - Douglas Julian
Sue Smith has planned this race for Douglas Julian since his Kelso win a fortnight ago. The heavy ground has come that she wanted and there is alot in his favour, staying power being one of them. The mix of staying power and a low weight could be lethal here, Jonathan England takes a further 7 pounds off his back and is better than your average claimer. There are alot of dangers in the race but Douglas Julian could well be good enough to land the Tommy Whittle. (7/1)
2:35 Ascot - Hey Big Spender
Colin Tizzard's charge was fancied in the Peterborough which has been abandoned twice this season. He has always been a sound jumper but one mistake seems to hold him back here and then, a clear round will see him round in front today. His trainer went on record as saying he is a stone better in heavy ground, which would make it seem as if he needs this ground. Others may struggle in it here. The only negative is that he is second top weight and must give alot away to the others. He still represents good value however and should take some beating on seasonal debut. (4/1)
3:10 Ascot - Olofi
Olofi was a pretty impressive winner last time out at Cheltenham on testing ground. Paddy Brennan once again takes the ride and an 8 pound rise in the weights shouldnt be enough hold him back. Tom George gave a positive write up in the Racing Post about Olofi this week and early money is key to him. Though there are a number of unexposed types in the field, yet he could still have a shade more improvement in him. Olofi is taken to land the odds today in the Ladbroke. (9/1)
Bothy - He was behind Olofi at Cheltenham and has since gone on to run well for a long way in the Fighting Fifth behind Countrywide Flame. That is top form but he was well beat in truth. The most interesting part about his run here today is regular jockey Danny Cook is at Haydock. Seven pound claimer Patrick Corbett takes the ride instead, putting him on a more than winable mark. Bothy is always a horse to follow on testing ground, which is why he is an each way selection today at glamorous odds. (28/1)
As im writing this Haydock has been given the green light, so lets look forward to a big day and many winners.
Happy Punting
Friday, 14 December 2012
Saturday 15th December
Today we start on a horrible note that nobody wishes to talk about. As im sure you all know, yesterday 20 Children under the age of 10, and 9 adults were shot dead in Connecticut. Now I know this is in no way horse racing related, but I wanted to pay respects to those who will be spending Christmas this year without a family member at the dinner table. You cant imagine what the families are going through, and it is important they are shown how much the world cares.
But with heavy hearts we go on to today's racing after a very successful week on the last blog.
12:45 Cheltenham or 1:45 Lingfield - Court In Motion
Lingfield is the preferred choice for Emma Lavelle's gelding, but in case of abandonment he is left in at Cheltenham. To be quite honest, he should win either race he goes for today he should take all the beating. He was last seen behind leading 3 mile novice Dynaste at Newbury, he was the only one to make a race of it that day. Eventually he went down by 4 1/2 lengths but emerged as a top novice candidate. Our Father was getting alot of weight last time when winning here at Cheltenham, this time he concedes alot. Timmy Murphy also said he wasnt totally in love with the ground, which suggests he'll struggle today. Court in Motion wont mind the ground at either tracks and should take some beating. Cheltenham 11/4 Lingfield 6/4
1:20 Cheltenham - Oh Crick
A couple of weeks ago Oh Crick landed us an each way winning at Newbury to save us. He goes again today and is one of the only runners who is a confirmed mudlark for Alan King. He keeps Josh Newman on board to take off 7 pounds which in this ground could not be more important. This means he carries 10-4 and with a more than capable jockey should make it count. He wasn't straight when losing to Shooters Wood, id be surprised were he not to reverse that form. Really strong claims for the ex festival winner. (6/1)
1:55 Cheltenham - Coneygree
Im only writing a couple of lines on Coneygree as he is a short priced favourite and should duly oblige. He was put up on this blog when winning here impressively last time, and so far is the leading staying novice hurdler. (11/10)
2:20 Lingfield - Lamps
It will be very soft at Lingfield today (if on) and Lamps excels when puddles are visible. He is effectively raised 10 pounds today for his Sandown demolition job when heavily eased to win, thanks to Tom Cannon claiming 3. There isnt really much left to say about Lamps today other than the fact in he should win and could improve further. (3/1)
2:30 Cheltenham - Tartak
Tim Vaughan's gelding is not one id usually follow, but I have heard some pretty encouraging things from the gallops this week. On that front im willing to take a chance on Tartak. Nobody could deny his talent being a former Peterborough Chase winner (rescheduled to Newbury). He was fifth
Last year at the festival behind Salut Flo and sixth here on reappearance. He is dropped two pounds for that effort and will be much better for it, that also gives me confidence he will go in the ground. With that and stable confidence behind him, Tartak is the selection. (20/1)
2:45 Doncaster - Counsel
Counsel was a horse I followed on the flat with mixed results, he is now with Donald McCain over jumps. He started off life over hurdles in a hot contest at Aintree (Handazan won, runs in Cheltenham opener). Though in truth he probably got stuck in the mud that day and has since won nicely at Bangor on better ground. Reversing placings with Moidore in doing so. Jason Maguire comes to ride him today and his odds are a bit on the generous side right now. Useful flat performer will go well on the better ground once again. (7/1)
3:05 Cheltenham - Grandouet
Nicky Henderson's inmate is my selection right now for the Champion Hurdle in March. This is his comeback run from injury, and he must concede 4 pounds to a racefit Zarkandar which is no easy task. Last year he improved no end however and he should be straight for today, with no ground worries he should make a bold showing and solidify his Festival claims. (5/2)
3:20 Doncaster - Mr Moonshine
His eight length defeat to Bold Sir Brian isnt looking too bad now after the winner's recent Sandown win. A return to 3 miles over fences is just what the doctor ordered here though. Last time he finished very tired on very soft ground at Haydock over hurdles, he was ridden very aggresively then however. On this better ground he is an out and out galloper and wont be stopping on the front end under top weight. As mentioned previously he was one of the top staying novices of last year with a 7th in the RSA. With early market support behind him and better ground, Sue Smith could well win the finale here. (6/1)
5 winners last week so lets hope for more of the same this week!
NAP - Oh Crick and Court in Motion (nice double)
NB - Lamps
Happy punting this week guys
But with heavy hearts we go on to today's racing after a very successful week on the last blog.
12:45 Cheltenham or 1:45 Lingfield - Court In Motion
Lingfield is the preferred choice for Emma Lavelle's gelding, but in case of abandonment he is left in at Cheltenham. To be quite honest, he should win either race he goes for today he should take all the beating. He was last seen behind leading 3 mile novice Dynaste at Newbury, he was the only one to make a race of it that day. Eventually he went down by 4 1/2 lengths but emerged as a top novice candidate. Our Father was getting alot of weight last time when winning here at Cheltenham, this time he concedes alot. Timmy Murphy also said he wasnt totally in love with the ground, which suggests he'll struggle today. Court in Motion wont mind the ground at either tracks and should take some beating. Cheltenham 11/4 Lingfield 6/4
1:20 Cheltenham - Oh Crick
A couple of weeks ago Oh Crick landed us an each way winning at Newbury to save us. He goes again today and is one of the only runners who is a confirmed mudlark for Alan King. He keeps Josh Newman on board to take off 7 pounds which in this ground could not be more important. This means he carries 10-4 and with a more than capable jockey should make it count. He wasn't straight when losing to Shooters Wood, id be surprised were he not to reverse that form. Really strong claims for the ex festival winner. (6/1)
1:55 Cheltenham - Coneygree
Im only writing a couple of lines on Coneygree as he is a short priced favourite and should duly oblige. He was put up on this blog when winning here impressively last time, and so far is the leading staying novice hurdler. (11/10)
2:20 Lingfield - Lamps
It will be very soft at Lingfield today (if on) and Lamps excels when puddles are visible. He is effectively raised 10 pounds today for his Sandown demolition job when heavily eased to win, thanks to Tom Cannon claiming 3. There isnt really much left to say about Lamps today other than the fact in he should win and could improve further. (3/1)
2:30 Cheltenham - Tartak
Tim Vaughan's gelding is not one id usually follow, but I have heard some pretty encouraging things from the gallops this week. On that front im willing to take a chance on Tartak. Nobody could deny his talent being a former Peterborough Chase winner (rescheduled to Newbury). He was fifth
Last year at the festival behind Salut Flo and sixth here on reappearance. He is dropped two pounds for that effort and will be much better for it, that also gives me confidence he will go in the ground. With that and stable confidence behind him, Tartak is the selection. (20/1)
2:45 Doncaster - Counsel
Counsel was a horse I followed on the flat with mixed results, he is now with Donald McCain over jumps. He started off life over hurdles in a hot contest at Aintree (Handazan won, runs in Cheltenham opener). Though in truth he probably got stuck in the mud that day and has since won nicely at Bangor on better ground. Reversing placings with Moidore in doing so. Jason Maguire comes to ride him today and his odds are a bit on the generous side right now. Useful flat performer will go well on the better ground once again. (7/1)
3:05 Cheltenham - Grandouet
Nicky Henderson's inmate is my selection right now for the Champion Hurdle in March. This is his comeback run from injury, and he must concede 4 pounds to a racefit Zarkandar which is no easy task. Last year he improved no end however and he should be straight for today, with no ground worries he should make a bold showing and solidify his Festival claims. (5/2)
3:20 Doncaster - Mr Moonshine
His eight length defeat to Bold Sir Brian isnt looking too bad now after the winner's recent Sandown win. A return to 3 miles over fences is just what the doctor ordered here though. Last time he finished very tired on very soft ground at Haydock over hurdles, he was ridden very aggresively then however. On this better ground he is an out and out galloper and wont be stopping on the front end under top weight. As mentioned previously he was one of the top staying novices of last year with a 7th in the RSA. With early market support behind him and better ground, Sue Smith could well win the finale here. (6/1)
5 winners last week so lets hope for more of the same this week!
NAP - Oh Crick and Court in Motion (nice double)
NB - Lamps
Happy punting this week guys
Friday, 30 November 2012
Newbury Hennessy Day
Well last week was just one of those days, all each way bets came a place out of where they needed and win bets were a runners up. All we can do is dust ourselves of and soldier on for this week. What a week it is as well with the return of Big Buck's and last years RSA winner Bobs Worth! Lets all pray that Newcastle passes it's 8am inspection.
12:05 Newcastle - No Planning
Sue Smith won pretty much everything on this card last year, including with race with Lackamon. This year No Planning represents her after being touched off at Sedgefield last time by Buck Mulligan. If he were in the race today he would be a warm order to oblige after the drop in class. The most eye catching piece of form for No Planning is the win at Hexham on Heavy ground. We all know just how heavy Hexham can get on a bad day as well. No Planning is taken to oblige in the first race of the day. (4/1)
12:15 Newbury - Rey Nacarado
Charlie Longsdon's yard have been in fantastic form early on this year, especially in softer ground. Rey Nacarado is one that will relish the more testing ground, as well as being a course and distance winner in good style. He should be able to pick off the leaders in the home straight late on after running well in the Durham National for a long way. One last thing in that a recent third at Wincanton should have set him straight, and is theoretically running 9 pounds lower today. (7/2)
12:35 Newcastle - Twice Lucky
A frantic start to today and we hopefully round off a Sue Smith double with the consistent Twice Lucky. He has been in fantastic form this year so far, and looked like adding another win to his resume last time when coming down in front. The only things to hinder him today are his competitors as the ground and distance will be ideal. He hasn't been given any more weight from the handicapper, and as long as he is none the worse for his fall, should take all the beating here. (9/2)
12:50 Newbury - Call Me A Star
A frantic hour to start the day but we end the hour with my NAP of the day with Call Me A Star. She has already beaten Eleven Fifty Nine twice (lost once) this includes a win over hurdles last time. Their strongest form came in a big Bumper at Sandown when Umadachar separated them. She has already won over hurdles too. The Alan King yard looked as if a return to form was imminent with a couple of good performances yesterday. She is the one all have to beat. (7/4)
2:35 Newbury - Princely Player
Phillip Hobbs had a big winner last week with Captain Chris and could well have another here. Princely Player was ultra consistent last year and picked up where he left off, when just denied by Hawkhill at Kempton. Granted, today is a stronger race than last time out, he wouldn't need to improve a great deal to win this. Last year he claimed the notable scalp of Jump City before being beat two lengths by Black Thunder. Should not be the price that he is and could be some value in the race. (6/1)
3:10 Newbury - Lion Na Bearnai
Everyone seems to be getting excited about this renewal of the Hennessy, when in truth it is a very poor race. You usually get a few gold cup contenders come from it, but the only one that could be considered for that is Bobs Worth. He saves his best for Cheltenham however. For this reason I am willing to take a chance on one of the rank outsiders from Ireland. Lion Na Bearnai is from a stable with only 4 or 5 horses, but that didn't stop him from winning the Irish National last year. He battled in determined fashion to win that day and had previously beat the likes of Four Commanders. The softer ground and distance wont hinder him at all today, and it would be no surprise at all to see him run a big race. One final thing is that a stable this small would not bring him over to England if he wasn't fully wound up. (50/1)
3:40 Newbury - Oh Crick
The last race of the day could round off a nice double for Alan king at Newbury with the ex Festival winner. He ran a blinder first time out, which he usually needs badly. If he can progress for that then he should be a tough nut to crack, after refinding his form by winning at Chepstow last season. He runs off two pounds lower and the useful 7 pound claimer Josh Newman keeps the ride. This should be enough to see him be in the mix right at the end. (12/1)
NAP - Call Me A Star
Nb - Oh Crick
No Planning
Twice Lucky
Call me a Star
Princely Player
Oh Crick
Cinders and Ashes should take all the beating in the Fighting Fifth today, hopefully you were aware and got your bets on before Darlan and Rock on Ruby came out. Odds on now.
These five should give us a bit of fun in a Lucky 31 throughout the afternoon.
Happy Punting, lets hope for a better performance that last weeks dismal display.
12:05 Newcastle - No Planning
Sue Smith won pretty much everything on this card last year, including with race with Lackamon. This year No Planning represents her after being touched off at Sedgefield last time by Buck Mulligan. If he were in the race today he would be a warm order to oblige after the drop in class. The most eye catching piece of form for No Planning is the win at Hexham on Heavy ground. We all know just how heavy Hexham can get on a bad day as well. No Planning is taken to oblige in the first race of the day. (4/1)
12:15 Newbury - Rey Nacarado
Charlie Longsdon's yard have been in fantastic form early on this year, especially in softer ground. Rey Nacarado is one that will relish the more testing ground, as well as being a course and distance winner in good style. He should be able to pick off the leaders in the home straight late on after running well in the Durham National for a long way. One last thing in that a recent third at Wincanton should have set him straight, and is theoretically running 9 pounds lower today. (7/2)
12:35 Newcastle - Twice Lucky
A frantic start to today and we hopefully round off a Sue Smith double with the consistent Twice Lucky. He has been in fantastic form this year so far, and looked like adding another win to his resume last time when coming down in front. The only things to hinder him today are his competitors as the ground and distance will be ideal. He hasn't been given any more weight from the handicapper, and as long as he is none the worse for his fall, should take all the beating here. (9/2)
12:50 Newbury - Call Me A Star
A frantic hour to start the day but we end the hour with my NAP of the day with Call Me A Star. She has already beaten Eleven Fifty Nine twice (lost once) this includes a win over hurdles last time. Their strongest form came in a big Bumper at Sandown when Umadachar separated them. She has already won over hurdles too. The Alan King yard looked as if a return to form was imminent with a couple of good performances yesterday. She is the one all have to beat. (7/4)
2:35 Newbury - Princely Player
Phillip Hobbs had a big winner last week with Captain Chris and could well have another here. Princely Player was ultra consistent last year and picked up where he left off, when just denied by Hawkhill at Kempton. Granted, today is a stronger race than last time out, he wouldn't need to improve a great deal to win this. Last year he claimed the notable scalp of Jump City before being beat two lengths by Black Thunder. Should not be the price that he is and could be some value in the race. (6/1)
3:10 Newbury - Lion Na Bearnai
Everyone seems to be getting excited about this renewal of the Hennessy, when in truth it is a very poor race. You usually get a few gold cup contenders come from it, but the only one that could be considered for that is Bobs Worth. He saves his best for Cheltenham however. For this reason I am willing to take a chance on one of the rank outsiders from Ireland. Lion Na Bearnai is from a stable with only 4 or 5 horses, but that didn't stop him from winning the Irish National last year. He battled in determined fashion to win that day and had previously beat the likes of Four Commanders. The softer ground and distance wont hinder him at all today, and it would be no surprise at all to see him run a big race. One final thing is that a stable this small would not bring him over to England if he wasn't fully wound up. (50/1)
3:40 Newbury - Oh Crick
The last race of the day could round off a nice double for Alan king at Newbury with the ex Festival winner. He ran a blinder first time out, which he usually needs badly. If he can progress for that then he should be a tough nut to crack, after refinding his form by winning at Chepstow last season. He runs off two pounds lower and the useful 7 pound claimer Josh Newman keeps the ride. This should be enough to see him be in the mix right at the end. (12/1)
NAP - Call Me A Star
Nb - Oh Crick
No Planning
Twice Lucky
Call me a Star
Princely Player
Oh Crick
Cinders and Ashes should take all the beating in the Fighting Fifth today, hopefully you were aware and got your bets on before Darlan and Rock on Ruby came out. Odds on now.
These five should give us a bit of fun in a Lucky 31 throughout the afternoon.
Happy Punting, lets hope for a better performance that last weeks dismal display.
Friday, 23 November 2012
Betfair Chase Day
Haydock 12:20 - Hollow Tree
Donald McCain's yard have been in fine order as of late and this race is small but competitive. Balder Succes will go off a short priced favourite but Hollow Tree is preferred, with the better soft ground form under his belt. He hasn't been seen since his 7th in the triumph hurdle, which may not put much between him and his main rival today. But since switching to hurdles he has gone from strength to strength and any more improvement should see him win today.
Ascot 12:35 - Shernando
Nicky Henderson's string was a useful performer on the flat and ran an encouraging race in his first hurdle at Newbury. After that he flunked at Sandown when odds on to oblige, that trip was more than likely too short though. Hence the reason for the step up to 2m 6f today, a worry for most runners today will be the ground, but on the few occasions Shernando has experienced it he has performed well. As long as the step up in trip works in his favour he could well win first time this season.
Haydock 12:55 - Black Thunder
He made an encouraging reappearance at Kempton when third in a good handicap hurdle, that will have put him straight for today. He does however have the huge burden of carrying top weight on this ground. He showed a liking for softer ground at Cheptsow and he could still be well handicapped off a mark of 139. This is a better race however and has other improving horses to overcome including Cheltenham winner Double Ross.
Haydock 2:00 - Railway Dillon
He was last of four to finish on reappearance this year, but truth is he usually needs the run and comes on leaps and bounds for it. He is off a career high mark but was a huge improver last year and it would be no surprise if more were to come. Looking back through his form, pretty much all of his worthwhile form is on very soft ground. In fact the only races he was unplaced in were due to faster ground, from that he has earned the title mudlark. Shouldn't be dismissed lightly and 10/1 is simply too big, wont be unplaced.
Ascot 2:10 - For Non Stop
Nick Williams gelding was one of the top novices over the middle distance last year with his third in the Jewson. However he looked better than ever when pounding some good rivals in the Old Roan. Including Wishfull Thinking by 23 lengths (receiving 11 pounds), he dotted up at Cheltenham last week in a hot race. For Non Stop gets 4 pounds from Champion Chaser Finian's Rainbow, the main threat could however be from Captain Chris. But race fitness could well be the order here and For Non Stop is taken to go back to back.
Haydock 2:30 - Mr Moonshine
Conditions are near perfect for this one today after last time not having to toe for the end of the race. Sue Smith returns him to hurdles today and may have found a good opening for him. His reappearance this year was over hurdles when finishing second at Wetherby on faster ground. He was one of the top novices over 3 miles last year but the 2 and a half miles last time is far from ideal. Everything about him screams stayer and that will definitely come in handy today. The worry is Katkeau who has heavy form in France and comes from David Pipe's yard (who has won this the last two years with Grand Crus and Dynaste). Mr Moonshine could well be worth an each way shout however.
Ascot 2:45 - Get Me Out Of Here
Oscar Whisky came down at the last when cruising upsides battling Overturn in this race last year. 4 go to post this year but its far from short on talent with Oscar whisky and the selection giving 4 pounds to Brampour and Raya Star. Brampour is weighted to dead heat with Get Me Out Of Here on Kempton form, but that was a very slowly run race and this will suit AP's mount much more than Brampour today. That is why he is the selection after improving on past form late last year and could again improve.
Haydock 3:05 - Weird Al
The Betfair Chase doesnt have as much glamour as last years renewal with Kauto Star's comeback. On good ground Long Run would be a fairly solid favourite. But on ground like this its difficult to see him getting competitive with confirmed mudlark Weird Al. He won the Charlie Hall last year first time out and then finished third here behind Long run. He will handle the ground better than everything else in the field with the exception of Cannington Brook, who looks just short on class here. Silviniaco Conti won the Charlie Hall impressively but may get stuck in the mud, whereas the biggest threat may come from Gold Cup runner up The Giant Bolster. Donald McCain is taken to land the 2012 Betfair Chase with Weird Al.
Ascot 3:20 - Mad Max
This race could be deceptively weak with the main four in the betting having chinks in their armour. Tanks For That has been exposed at this level but still remains capable, whereas this will be a bit sharp for Champion Court. Pepite Rose will be the biggest danger but this could be as good as she is, Toubab rarely finds off the bridle and conditions will not suit. This introduces Mad Max who has form on this ground and is due a win now he has recovered from injuries. He was running a huge race in the Arkle when leaving a hole in the second last behind Sizing Europe, since then it hasn't been straight forward. He is one of the few that will enjoy the ground, being a past winner and a massive individual should make his mark. One last point that Neil Mulholland books Richard Johnson for the ride today instead of Dougie Costello. Huge each way value.
Haydock 3:40 - Pettifour
Phew! Last race of today for me, its been a long one today, apologies! Pettifour could well be the value in the Haydock Finale so long he can jump with fluency. He overcame a monster absence last year to run a huge race at Cheltenham in a top handicap hurdle behind Dorset Square. An added bonus is that he should plough through this ground under Sam Twiston-Davies and will stay no problem. The only worry is that he sometimes struggles to find a jumping rhythm over the larger obstacles. We will go with Pettifour to either enhance our profits or get us out of trouble, hopefully the former!
One final thing is the a tentative vote in the 1:40 at Ascot is Be My Light who has been knocking on the door far too long
Nap - Weird Al
Nb - Hollow Tree
As always happy punting guys!
Donald McCain's yard have been in fine order as of late and this race is small but competitive. Balder Succes will go off a short priced favourite but Hollow Tree is preferred, with the better soft ground form under his belt. He hasn't been seen since his 7th in the triumph hurdle, which may not put much between him and his main rival today. But since switching to hurdles he has gone from strength to strength and any more improvement should see him win today.
Ascot 12:35 - Shernando
Nicky Henderson's string was a useful performer on the flat and ran an encouraging race in his first hurdle at Newbury. After that he flunked at Sandown when odds on to oblige, that trip was more than likely too short though. Hence the reason for the step up to 2m 6f today, a worry for most runners today will be the ground, but on the few occasions Shernando has experienced it he has performed well. As long as the step up in trip works in his favour he could well win first time this season.
Haydock 12:55 - Black Thunder
He made an encouraging reappearance at Kempton when third in a good handicap hurdle, that will have put him straight for today. He does however have the huge burden of carrying top weight on this ground. He showed a liking for softer ground at Cheptsow and he could still be well handicapped off a mark of 139. This is a better race however and has other improving horses to overcome including Cheltenham winner Double Ross.
Haydock 2:00 - Railway Dillon
He was last of four to finish on reappearance this year, but truth is he usually needs the run and comes on leaps and bounds for it. He is off a career high mark but was a huge improver last year and it would be no surprise if more were to come. Looking back through his form, pretty much all of his worthwhile form is on very soft ground. In fact the only races he was unplaced in were due to faster ground, from that he has earned the title mudlark. Shouldn't be dismissed lightly and 10/1 is simply too big, wont be unplaced.
Ascot 2:10 - For Non Stop
Nick Williams gelding was one of the top novices over the middle distance last year with his third in the Jewson. However he looked better than ever when pounding some good rivals in the Old Roan. Including Wishfull Thinking by 23 lengths (receiving 11 pounds), he dotted up at Cheltenham last week in a hot race. For Non Stop gets 4 pounds from Champion Chaser Finian's Rainbow, the main threat could however be from Captain Chris. But race fitness could well be the order here and For Non Stop is taken to go back to back.
Haydock 2:30 - Mr Moonshine
Conditions are near perfect for this one today after last time not having to toe for the end of the race. Sue Smith returns him to hurdles today and may have found a good opening for him. His reappearance this year was over hurdles when finishing second at Wetherby on faster ground. He was one of the top novices over 3 miles last year but the 2 and a half miles last time is far from ideal. Everything about him screams stayer and that will definitely come in handy today. The worry is Katkeau who has heavy form in France and comes from David Pipe's yard (who has won this the last two years with Grand Crus and Dynaste). Mr Moonshine could well be worth an each way shout however.
Ascot 2:45 - Get Me Out Of Here
Oscar Whisky came down at the last when cruising upsides battling Overturn in this race last year. 4 go to post this year but its far from short on talent with Oscar whisky and the selection giving 4 pounds to Brampour and Raya Star. Brampour is weighted to dead heat with Get Me Out Of Here on Kempton form, but that was a very slowly run race and this will suit AP's mount much more than Brampour today. That is why he is the selection after improving on past form late last year and could again improve.
Haydock 3:05 - Weird Al
The Betfair Chase doesnt have as much glamour as last years renewal with Kauto Star's comeback. On good ground Long Run would be a fairly solid favourite. But on ground like this its difficult to see him getting competitive with confirmed mudlark Weird Al. He won the Charlie Hall last year first time out and then finished third here behind Long run. He will handle the ground better than everything else in the field with the exception of Cannington Brook, who looks just short on class here. Silviniaco Conti won the Charlie Hall impressively but may get stuck in the mud, whereas the biggest threat may come from Gold Cup runner up The Giant Bolster. Donald McCain is taken to land the 2012 Betfair Chase with Weird Al.
Ascot 3:20 - Mad Max
This race could be deceptively weak with the main four in the betting having chinks in their armour. Tanks For That has been exposed at this level but still remains capable, whereas this will be a bit sharp for Champion Court. Pepite Rose will be the biggest danger but this could be as good as she is, Toubab rarely finds off the bridle and conditions will not suit. This introduces Mad Max who has form on this ground and is due a win now he has recovered from injuries. He was running a huge race in the Arkle when leaving a hole in the second last behind Sizing Europe, since then it hasn't been straight forward. He is one of the few that will enjoy the ground, being a past winner and a massive individual should make his mark. One last point that Neil Mulholland books Richard Johnson for the ride today instead of Dougie Costello. Huge each way value.
Haydock 3:40 - Pettifour
Phew! Last race of today for me, its been a long one today, apologies! Pettifour could well be the value in the Haydock Finale so long he can jump with fluency. He overcame a monster absence last year to run a huge race at Cheltenham in a top handicap hurdle behind Dorset Square. An added bonus is that he should plough through this ground under Sam Twiston-Davies and will stay no problem. The only worry is that he sometimes struggles to find a jumping rhythm over the larger obstacles. We will go with Pettifour to either enhance our profits or get us out of trouble, hopefully the former!
One final thing is the a tentative vote in the 1:40 at Ascot is Be My Light who has been knocking on the door far too long
Nap - Weird Al
Nb - Hollow Tree
As always happy punting guys!
Saturday, 17 November 2012
Cheltenham Open Meeting Day Three
Well yesterday was more like it, with the first two winning and stamping their authority for March. Far West now as short as 8/1 favourite for the Triumph Hurdle and Our Father also as short as 8/1 for the RSA. Skybet are the standout at 14/1 after his bloodless beating of Sire Collonges who in turn was miles clear of old rival Sea of Thunder.
Another top class looking Novice chase starts us off today which is where we shall start.
1:10 Cheltenham - Captain Conan
He looks like one of the standout novice chasers of this season and this should be a race to stake his claims for the Arkle. He wont have things his own way with Gary Moore Yardstick Sire De Grugy who won easily at Kempton on debut also in the field. The main danger could be from Third Intention who was probably beaten by lack of race fitness behind His Excellency here last time. Paul Nicholls won the PaddyPower yesterday and is represented by Exeter winner Rebel Rebellion, he could be biting off a bit more than he can chew here however. Last years Tolworth hurdle winner looks the one to be on today with a win on soft ground at Auteil in France. Added confidence in his Tolworth Hurdle victory was also on Soft. It will take a very good one to beat him on his reappearance today.
1:45 Cheltenham - Captain Sunshine
I fancied him for his reappearance here last time, that time race fitness told and he faded after 2 from home. He was entered last week at Exeter where he 'refused' to race, in my mind thats a bit harsh. He was subject to a big gamble and was going off 5/4 before disaster struck. Just as they were coming out onto the track he decided to go left and take a turn instead of towards the tape. In my opinion the starter should have recalled them, but hey thats not up to me. He didnt plant his feet or look unwilling to run at anypoint down at the start. Before that blotch on his CV he had shown great promise and the fact that he is turned out again so quickly shows they think he is in good heart and could be the one to beat here. Paul Nicholls' Ruben Cotter is the one for the early money. Emma Lavelle's representative looks worth another try though.
2:20 Cheltenham - Wishfull Thinking
Were the going tomorrow good instead of as testing as today he'd be opposable, it would also mean the Sprinter Sacre would be going to post however. This looks to be his day in the sun this year receiving weight from inferior rivals, unfortunately the price reflects that. Seen just the once this year at Aintree when in the Old Roan field that got slammed by For Non Stop, that was 2 and a half miles. The drop back to two miles on this ground will suit him no end and should dismiss of the reappearing Doeslessthanme.
Imperial Shabra, the Irish Raider from the enigmatic Oliver Brady yard could be the biggest danger. He was considered good enough to go for the Jewson last year but was pulled out at the last stage. He has had alot of runs since then, well into the double figures but proved he isnt in need of a break when a close third to Cristal Bonus last time out. The 'toughest horse in training' could be a tough nut to crack here today. One other bonus is that Oliver Brady does very well with his runners in England, Imperial Shabra himself has won at Stratford earlier in the year. I recall Baron De Feypo winning at the festival a few years back, that was his highest profile win. A solid each way chance.
2:50 Cheltenham - Bothy
Brian Ellison's charge made a more than pleasing comeback off topweight at Wetherby, beaten a length by the reopposing Hi Dancer for Ben Haslam. One major thing in Bothy's court today is the testing ground which everyone knows are his preferred condtions. Five pounds higher today than at Wetherby, he should strip alot fitter for his reappearance and looks the one to beat on his old form. You will remember he was second in the Totesport trophy by a short head off four pounds lower behind Recession Proof. Next time out he was 6 lengths beaten by Carlito Brigante, who has gone on to bigger and better things. A confident vote and 16/1 is way overpriced.
3:25 Cheltenham - Coneygree
He may just slip in under the radar here with bigger more powerful stables represented here, but Coneygree absolutely routed his rivals at Uttoxeter. You'd have to go back 20 lengths before you found the second placed horse from Donald McCain yard, its not the only time he has beaten a McCain horse. On his debut he handed out a beating to the expensive Dannanceys Hill. He has a bit to find with Village Vic on their Newbury bumper form and he could be the biggest threat today, after a very positive debut. Two things stick out to me about Coneygree however. The first is that he seems to excel on softer ground and is an improving horse, the second of which is his breeding. He is a half brother to Hennessy winner Carruthers, signifying he will probably need further in time and today should suit him down to the ground. The current 8/1 on offer looks a good bet and could well be the value in the race.
4:00 Cheltenham - Fascino Rustico
John Hales owned the Paddy Power winner yesterday and he could just have another good one here with Carlisle bumper winner Fascino Rustico. This will be his first start for Paul Nicholls since switching from Ron O'Leary's yard and one would think he'd improve for that. A big imposing type that is destined to try his hand in some novice hurdles later this season, and next season chasing beckons for him. He will improve for this run but looks by far the best of these and should take all the beating. This is also attheraces presenter Martin Kelly's horse to watch for the season (via Twitter)
Lets hope to follow up after a good day yesterday, a reminder that last years Champion Bumper winner Champagne Fever takes part in his first hurdle at 12:45
As always Happy Punting guys
Another top class looking Novice chase starts us off today which is where we shall start.
1:10 Cheltenham - Captain Conan
He looks like one of the standout novice chasers of this season and this should be a race to stake his claims for the Arkle. He wont have things his own way with Gary Moore Yardstick Sire De Grugy who won easily at Kempton on debut also in the field. The main danger could be from Third Intention who was probably beaten by lack of race fitness behind His Excellency here last time. Paul Nicholls won the PaddyPower yesterday and is represented by Exeter winner Rebel Rebellion, he could be biting off a bit more than he can chew here however. Last years Tolworth hurdle winner looks the one to be on today with a win on soft ground at Auteil in France. Added confidence in his Tolworth Hurdle victory was also on Soft. It will take a very good one to beat him on his reappearance today.
1:45 Cheltenham - Captain Sunshine
I fancied him for his reappearance here last time, that time race fitness told and he faded after 2 from home. He was entered last week at Exeter where he 'refused' to race, in my mind thats a bit harsh. He was subject to a big gamble and was going off 5/4 before disaster struck. Just as they were coming out onto the track he decided to go left and take a turn instead of towards the tape. In my opinion the starter should have recalled them, but hey thats not up to me. He didnt plant his feet or look unwilling to run at anypoint down at the start. Before that blotch on his CV he had shown great promise and the fact that he is turned out again so quickly shows they think he is in good heart and could be the one to beat here. Paul Nicholls' Ruben Cotter is the one for the early money. Emma Lavelle's representative looks worth another try though.
2:20 Cheltenham - Wishfull Thinking
Were the going tomorrow good instead of as testing as today he'd be opposable, it would also mean the Sprinter Sacre would be going to post however. This looks to be his day in the sun this year receiving weight from inferior rivals, unfortunately the price reflects that. Seen just the once this year at Aintree when in the Old Roan field that got slammed by For Non Stop, that was 2 and a half miles. The drop back to two miles on this ground will suit him no end and should dismiss of the reappearing Doeslessthanme.
Imperial Shabra, the Irish Raider from the enigmatic Oliver Brady yard could be the biggest danger. He was considered good enough to go for the Jewson last year but was pulled out at the last stage. He has had alot of runs since then, well into the double figures but proved he isnt in need of a break when a close third to Cristal Bonus last time out. The 'toughest horse in training' could be a tough nut to crack here today. One other bonus is that Oliver Brady does very well with his runners in England, Imperial Shabra himself has won at Stratford earlier in the year. I recall Baron De Feypo winning at the festival a few years back, that was his highest profile win. A solid each way chance.
2:50 Cheltenham - Bothy
Brian Ellison's charge made a more than pleasing comeback off topweight at Wetherby, beaten a length by the reopposing Hi Dancer for Ben Haslam. One major thing in Bothy's court today is the testing ground which everyone knows are his preferred condtions. Five pounds higher today than at Wetherby, he should strip alot fitter for his reappearance and looks the one to beat on his old form. You will remember he was second in the Totesport trophy by a short head off four pounds lower behind Recession Proof. Next time out he was 6 lengths beaten by Carlito Brigante, who has gone on to bigger and better things. A confident vote and 16/1 is way overpriced.
3:25 Cheltenham - Coneygree
He may just slip in under the radar here with bigger more powerful stables represented here, but Coneygree absolutely routed his rivals at Uttoxeter. You'd have to go back 20 lengths before you found the second placed horse from Donald McCain yard, its not the only time he has beaten a McCain horse. On his debut he handed out a beating to the expensive Dannanceys Hill. He has a bit to find with Village Vic on their Newbury bumper form and he could be the biggest threat today, after a very positive debut. Two things stick out to me about Coneygree however. The first is that he seems to excel on softer ground and is an improving horse, the second of which is his breeding. He is a half brother to Hennessy winner Carruthers, signifying he will probably need further in time and today should suit him down to the ground. The current 8/1 on offer looks a good bet and could well be the value in the race.
4:00 Cheltenham - Fascino Rustico
John Hales owned the Paddy Power winner yesterday and he could just have another good one here with Carlisle bumper winner Fascino Rustico. This will be his first start for Paul Nicholls since switching from Ron O'Leary's yard and one would think he'd improve for that. A big imposing type that is destined to try his hand in some novice hurdles later this season, and next season chasing beckons for him. He will improve for this run but looks by far the best of these and should take all the beating. This is also attheraces presenter Martin Kelly's horse to watch for the season (via Twitter)
Lets hope to follow up after a good day yesterday, a reminder that last years Champion Bumper winner Champagne Fever takes part in his first hurdle at 12:45
As always Happy Punting guys
Friday, 16 November 2012
Cheltenham Open Meeting Day Two
Well yesterday was about as bad as it gets, the closest we had was Duke of Navan who just failed to place. I must confess something though, i switched from Coffee to Buck Magic in the conditional jockeys hurdle. Apologies for the change of heart.
Today promises to be a great day of racing with a top class renewal of the Paddy Power Gold Cup, featuring the likes of, Hunt Ball, Walkon and of course Grand Crus. Lets crack on.
12:45 Cheltenham - Far West
Mcvicar was a high class flat recruit to the Alan King yard and is two from two over timber. Today however he must give 4 pounds to leading triumph hurdle hope Far West. The selection was a very easy winner at Chepstow on his first run in this country, in the process beating another useful Alan King horse in Handazan. He has since won at Aintree in a race which the form is working out very nicely (3rd and 4th have been first and second). In the past two years Paul Nicholls has won this with the high class Sam Winner in 2010 and last year with Hinterland, Far West looks set to follow in their shoes today. 7/4 is on offer at the moment and that could prove a good price. One to watch out for at a price is Mick Channon's, Foster's Road after getting his head in front over hurdles at Fakenham, and then on the flat at Wolverhampton the last twice.
1:20 Cheltenham - Our Father
He was a huge gamble when winning a handicap hurdle at Ascot last year in taking style, it appeared after then that the world was at his feet before disappointing at Cheltenham and Aintree. In truth however it has always looked as if he was a ready made chaser, and its eye catching that David Pipe introduces him here at such a high level first time. The two main rivals in the betting should be hard to beat, but both under penalties and giving Our Father weight he should be tough to beat. A big shout to the double David Pipe had yesterday which could mean a return to form for the yard.
1:55 Cheltenham - Poker De Sivola
He won the Bet 365 Gold Cup at Sandown off todays mark and Ferdy Murphy always has been a little... Let's say shrewd. But onto the form side, he turned in a disappointing effort at Newcastle first time out, he was hampered that day though and was looked after. Robert Thornton gets the leg up which is a fairly unusual jockey booking by Murphy as he is rarely used, but Poker De Sivola seems to get on with any jockey aboard him. You may remember his supreme staying performance to win the National Hunt Chase here at the festival a couple of years back. Other wins at Sandown and Hexham show his liking for undulating courses, he gets a tentative each way vote today at 25/1
Unfortuanately he is a non runner, replace him with David Pipe's Ashkazar
2:35 Cheltenham - Triolo D'alene
The Nicky Henderson representative looked an exciting French import after beating Ackertac first time at Ascot before disappointing at Cheltenham. His jumping never stood him in good health that day, but a promising reappearance at Market Rasen reinstalls confidence. The form from that race is working out quite nicely with winners and placed horses in behind next time out. He looked as if he needed that opener badly when tiring two from home and proving no match for Zitenka. Possibly the biggest eye catcher is that Barry Geraghty has starved himself down to 10-1 to take the ride today, he had the choice of good handicapper Tanks For That (non runner) but kept the faith with Triolo D'alene.
I have heard glowing reports from Tom Cooper's yard about 2009 Arkle winner Forpadydeplasterer who hasnt won since his festival success. He has however been very consistent without getting his day in the sun, if anywhere back to his best he will be a serious threat to all rivals. Paddy Brennan takes the ride.
One more to keep an eye out for is Ex festival winner Finger onthe Pulse who ran brilliantly here last time (behind Nadiya De La Vega) to come third, 40/1 looks too big. Positive that top Amateur Maurice Linehan gets on very well with him.
3:05 Cheltenham - Abnaki
Jonjo's representative made a pleasing reappearance at Aintree behind fast improving Ely Brown, that was his first run since winning here at glamourous odds. If that run has had the desired affect and blown away the cobwebs, he could well upset a few major players today off a fly weight with Maurice Linehan taking off 7 pounds. One worry is that the stable are a bit hit and miss right now, but a positive is that Coffee ran a good race yesterday in a messy conditional jockeys hurdle. Not one to put your mortgage on but should go well.
Market support for ex top novice Bouggler would be interesting on his return from injury, he could potentially make his mark look silly.
3:40 Cheltenham - Tanerko Emery
He is a typical David Pipe improver whom i have been watching from the start of his career. Before his Stratford victory he had been behind some big names from leading stables, firstly at Hereford he fell behind Tour D'argent, then at Newbury he was behind Montbazon, Vulcanite and All the Aces. He is open to more improvement and past performances would suggest he isn't a 112 rated performer and shouldn't be for much longer. Today could be a great day for the Pipe Yard.
Definitely wouldnt put you off of a David Pipe lucky 31 today, some real solid chances across the card.
Our Father
Problema Tic (narrowly preferred to Ashkazar, both leading chances)
Grand Crus
Goulanes
Tanerko Emery
As always Happy Punting and here is for a better day than yesterday, it couldnt get much worse!
Today promises to be a great day of racing with a top class renewal of the Paddy Power Gold Cup, featuring the likes of, Hunt Ball, Walkon and of course Grand Crus. Lets crack on.
12:45 Cheltenham - Far West
Mcvicar was a high class flat recruit to the Alan King yard and is two from two over timber. Today however he must give 4 pounds to leading triumph hurdle hope Far West. The selection was a very easy winner at Chepstow on his first run in this country, in the process beating another useful Alan King horse in Handazan. He has since won at Aintree in a race which the form is working out very nicely (3rd and 4th have been first and second). In the past two years Paul Nicholls has won this with the high class Sam Winner in 2010 and last year with Hinterland, Far West looks set to follow in their shoes today. 7/4 is on offer at the moment and that could prove a good price. One to watch out for at a price is Mick Channon's, Foster's Road after getting his head in front over hurdles at Fakenham, and then on the flat at Wolverhampton the last twice.
1:20 Cheltenham - Our Father
He was a huge gamble when winning a handicap hurdle at Ascot last year in taking style, it appeared after then that the world was at his feet before disappointing at Cheltenham and Aintree. In truth however it has always looked as if he was a ready made chaser, and its eye catching that David Pipe introduces him here at such a high level first time. The two main rivals in the betting should be hard to beat, but both under penalties and giving Our Father weight he should be tough to beat. A big shout to the double David Pipe had yesterday which could mean a return to form for the yard.
1:55 Cheltenham - Poker De Sivola
He won the Bet 365 Gold Cup at Sandown off todays mark and Ferdy Murphy always has been a little... Let's say shrewd. But onto the form side, he turned in a disappointing effort at Newcastle first time out, he was hampered that day though and was looked after. Robert Thornton gets the leg up which is a fairly unusual jockey booking by Murphy as he is rarely used, but Poker De Sivola seems to get on with any jockey aboard him. You may remember his supreme staying performance to win the National Hunt Chase here at the festival a couple of years back. Other wins at Sandown and Hexham show his liking for undulating courses, he gets a tentative each way vote today at 25/1
Unfortuanately he is a non runner, replace him with David Pipe's Ashkazar
2:35 Cheltenham - Triolo D'alene
The Nicky Henderson representative looked an exciting French import after beating Ackertac first time at Ascot before disappointing at Cheltenham. His jumping never stood him in good health that day, but a promising reappearance at Market Rasen reinstalls confidence. The form from that race is working out quite nicely with winners and placed horses in behind next time out. He looked as if he needed that opener badly when tiring two from home and proving no match for Zitenka. Possibly the biggest eye catcher is that Barry Geraghty has starved himself down to 10-1 to take the ride today, he had the choice of good handicapper Tanks For That (non runner) but kept the faith with Triolo D'alene.
I have heard glowing reports from Tom Cooper's yard about 2009 Arkle winner Forpadydeplasterer who hasnt won since his festival success. He has however been very consistent without getting his day in the sun, if anywhere back to his best he will be a serious threat to all rivals. Paddy Brennan takes the ride.
One more to keep an eye out for is Ex festival winner Finger onthe Pulse who ran brilliantly here last time (behind Nadiya De La Vega) to come third, 40/1 looks too big. Positive that top Amateur Maurice Linehan gets on very well with him.
3:05 Cheltenham - Abnaki
Jonjo's representative made a pleasing reappearance at Aintree behind fast improving Ely Brown, that was his first run since winning here at glamourous odds. If that run has had the desired affect and blown away the cobwebs, he could well upset a few major players today off a fly weight with Maurice Linehan taking off 7 pounds. One worry is that the stable are a bit hit and miss right now, but a positive is that Coffee ran a good race yesterday in a messy conditional jockeys hurdle. Not one to put your mortgage on but should go well.
Market support for ex top novice Bouggler would be interesting on his return from injury, he could potentially make his mark look silly.
3:40 Cheltenham - Tanerko Emery
He is a typical David Pipe improver whom i have been watching from the start of his career. Before his Stratford victory he had been behind some big names from leading stables, firstly at Hereford he fell behind Tour D'argent, then at Newbury he was behind Montbazon, Vulcanite and All the Aces. He is open to more improvement and past performances would suggest he isn't a 112 rated performer and shouldn't be for much longer. Today could be a great day for the Pipe Yard.
Definitely wouldnt put you off of a David Pipe lucky 31 today, some real solid chances across the card.
Our Father
Problema Tic (narrowly preferred to Ashkazar, both leading chances)
Grand Crus
Goulanes
Tanerko Emery
As always Happy Punting and here is for a better day than yesterday, it couldnt get much worse!
Wednesday, 26 September 2012
2012 National Hunt Season Profiles - Ambion Wood
Hey guys, sorry there hasn't been a new blog in a few months, but we have been settling in, in Canada (which has all gone smoothly).
This is a new feature in this blog, basically I will throw in horses to follow for the season, be it novices or seasoned horses that have been forgotten. Pretty much a horse that i think will pay for itself for the season and should be followed.
First up is Victor Dartnall's exciting Novice chaser Ambion Wood. He is probably the horse i am most looking forward to seeing this season over fences. Reasoning for this is the sheer size of him, he looks like a real chaser and had some top form over hurdles. Horses he was behind last year include Cotton Mill (who ran out at Cheltenham when leading Simonsig two out) and the late Brindisi Breeze (Who of course won the Albert Bartlett).
He really came into his own at the back end of last year winning a really competitive novice handicap at Sandown easily, before dotting up at Perth. In truth he has never really ran a bad race in his career, with a worst place finish of 5th. I have kept my eye on him since I saw his first run at Sandown in a bumper behind Make a Track. The winner has since gone on to show his talent being placed at Cheltenham.
I believe the route being taken this year is to start off with a Novice Chase at Exeter in November and if victorious going on to better races, culminating in the RSA in March. He is around a 25/1 mark for Cheltenham and could be the biggest improver in the 3 mile division.
One more positive before I wrap this up is that Cheltenham should be a course right up his street after winning at Sandown and Chepstow, proving a liking for undulating testing courses. Denis O'Regan must be licking his lips at the thought of getting the leg up on Ambion Wood this season.
Hopefully a few of you agree with the first selection and if not then let me know who you would prefer by messaging me. Hopefully another profile will be up tomorrow and they shall continue.
Happy Punting
This is a new feature in this blog, basically I will throw in horses to follow for the season, be it novices or seasoned horses that have been forgotten. Pretty much a horse that i think will pay for itself for the season and should be followed.
First up is Victor Dartnall's exciting Novice chaser Ambion Wood. He is probably the horse i am most looking forward to seeing this season over fences. Reasoning for this is the sheer size of him, he looks like a real chaser and had some top form over hurdles. Horses he was behind last year include Cotton Mill (who ran out at Cheltenham when leading Simonsig two out) and the late Brindisi Breeze (Who of course won the Albert Bartlett).
He really came into his own at the back end of last year winning a really competitive novice handicap at Sandown easily, before dotting up at Perth. In truth he has never really ran a bad race in his career, with a worst place finish of 5th. I have kept my eye on him since I saw his first run at Sandown in a bumper behind Make a Track. The winner has since gone on to show his talent being placed at Cheltenham.
I believe the route being taken this year is to start off with a Novice Chase at Exeter in November and if victorious going on to better races, culminating in the RSA in March. He is around a 25/1 mark for Cheltenham and could be the biggest improver in the 3 mile division.
One more positive before I wrap this up is that Cheltenham should be a course right up his street after winning at Sandown and Chepstow, proving a liking for undulating testing courses. Denis O'Regan must be licking his lips at the thought of getting the leg up on Ambion Wood this season.
Hopefully a few of you agree with the first selection and if not then let me know who you would prefer by messaging me. Hopefully another profile will be up tomorrow and they shall continue.
Happy Punting
Thursday, 12 April 2012
Day 1 Aintree Festival
Aintree is here after what has seemed an eternity since Cheltenham, and a fairly decent card to start of the Grand National meeting as well. I was glad last night that i chose to stay up to watch the Stanley Cup playoffs especially going to bed when it was light outside after my Vancouver Canucks lost the first game 4-2. But hey 6 more games to go and id still fancy our chances of going through.
2:00 - Aintree Hurdle
As always its a top 3 mile hurdle in England and the race revolves around the unbelievable BIG BUCK'S who goes for his 17th straight career win. He needs no introduction and it would appear the only thing that can beat him today is himself. A few horses of notable each way value but the one that is closest to him in the betting is World Hurdle third SMAD PLACE for Robert Thornton. He has been a very admirable horse this year after opening up by romping home in a big handicap hurdle at Ascot then finishing second to Bourne the time after. There is no real reason that he should get closer to big bucks today though. WON IN THE DARK has run well in Champion hurdles before but as of late has found winning a tough thing to do in much lower grades than this and cant be fancied. ACROSS THE BAY and CRACK AWAY JACK look well out of their depth here. TIDAL BAY could be a bit of each way value if he is in the right frame of mind today but it is a bit of a gamble on which horse will turn up. RESTLESS HARRY has been consistent this year but found life tough last time out and has been on the go for a while now, he is swerved today. Each way preference is for Paul Nicholls' second string POUNGACH who was last seen being beaten 2 lengths by Oscar Whisky but this is over a longer trip and seeing as there is no reason he wont stay should be fighting for minor honours.
2:30 - Matalan Anniversary 4-Y-O hurdle
Alot of horses here who contested the Triumph hurdle on the Friday of Cheltenham, including eventual winner COUNTRYWIDE FLAME who has been reported to be in good health since his win, my only worry is that he has been on the go for a long time this season and could be vulnerable to less exposed types. Nicky Henderson swerved the Triumph with LYVIUS after losing at Newbury and to me he looks a bit short of the top. Saying that he will be fresh and could well be the each way value of the race on his step up in grade. GRUMETI looks to go off the favourite for the race after going off favourite at Cheltenham when 3rd. He is another that this race may just be one run too much for and others are preferred. HINTERLAND has two engagements at Cheltenham but ended up not taking either of them in preference to come here fit, there has been a little bit of market support for him this morning. He has looked fairly vulnerable at times this year and can be taken on. SADLERS RISK hasnt fulfilled the potential he promised in his first run when destroying the field in a novice hurdle. Since then he has been upped in class and has been found out it would seem, Aintree will be more up his street than Cheltenham though and should go closer today. GOTTANY O'S looked a really nice prospect when smashing Lyvius at Newbury but was since beaten at very short odds at Hexham, forgive the last run and he should be bang there for a stable in great form this season. Preference today however is for DODGING BULLETS who ran a brilliant race in the Triumph but may have hit the front too early there when stopping fairly quickly after the last when looking like a winner. If Noel Fehily can hold on to him then he should take all the beating after running such a good race at Kempton first up over hurdles.
3:05 - Betfred Bowl Chase
Today at Aintree could possibly see the end of a fairytale season for the most progressive chaser arguably ever in HUNT BALL who has had an unbelievable season be raised over 80 pounds in the handicap. I would say this race may be too early for him after a hard season but every time i say something against him he makes me look silly. But he should fine it tough today and others are preferred. Tony Mccoy hasnt been out of the placings when riding BURTON PORT who ran a cracker in the Gold Cup last time out, i just feel that for a fragile horse this may be too quick after Cheltenham for him. RIVERSIDE THEATRE is stepped up in trip but had a tough race at Cheltenham and others are fancied ahead of Barry Geraghty's choice. NACARAT is laid out for this race every year and finally got his head in front last year, the one thing he has over most of these is freshness after all but 3 ran at Cheltenham. He should again go well but may struggle to get his head in front. MEDERMIT looks like a bridesmaid but it stepped up to 3 miles for the first time, in my opinion this isnt the right race to step him up in trip after his Ryanair exploits, but who am i to question Alan King. He has place claims are best. CARRUTHERS and MASTER OF THE HALL are useful on their day but just look a bit short in this class so have to be opposed like last years third FOLLOW THE PLAN. DIAMOND HARRY is becoming frustrating to follow and he is another that looks a bit short at the top, but there is definitely a world of talent there and its just a case of finding the key with him. He is best watched at the moment. We are siding with WHAT A FRIEND today which may be a silly thing to say as he always looks a winner then doesnt go through with it. But you forget that he is really going to Aintree a fresh horse after falling at the second fence. Paul Nicholls is extremely bullish about his chances saying he has a serious serious chance, it would appear they fancy that today is his day. Before I end this race id just like to say how great it would be for Hunt Ball to win just to see Anthony Knott's celebration in the parade ring.
3:40 - John Smiths Fox Hunters' Chase
Here is the first lottery at the Aintree festival, if you can find the winner of this then good luck to you. CLOUDY LANE was favourite for the National a few years back and he has got round these fences before but he does need an extreme distance nowadays and will be staying on at the end of the day. As long as he can jump while in top gear he should be thereabouts. One that will have no problem with the pace is past winner SILVER ADONIS who seems to save his best for these fences and is coming somewhat of an Aintree Specialist and he seemed in good health last time out at Fakenham when winning. More than capable jockey on board helps. TEDDY'S REFLECTION is a huge price for a horse with alot of talent. If he can take to the National fences then i cant see any possible reason why he wouldnt be close up as everything is in his in favour. THE POLOMOCHE was a once very good horse and has showed this year he still has plenty of love for the game winning 2 of his last three but there may be one or two better in this field. BOXER GEORG ran a blinder in this race last year to come second and he showed a genuine love for the course, another performance like that will put him right in the mix and its hard to see him too far out of it. ISLAND LIFE has been well in himself after winning his last two and definitely deserves his place in the field today and also isnt without a chance after running in some good races over the years. OFFSHORE ACCOUNT could make his price look silly as in his younger years he was grade one winner in Ireland. An even bigger tick in his box is the fact that he has made is round the National fences before on more than one occasion. GWANAKO won the Topham as a 5 year old which has to be respected and is arguably the one they all have to beat today with the talented James Cowley on board. But he has disgraced himself before over these fences when sending Sam Thomas 20 foot into the air at the Chair. I think he is more than beatable and the one im taking him on with is MY WAY DE SOLZEN who is an ex Cheltenham festival winner. He is a sound enough jumper and the distance isnt a problem for him, I don't see why the fences should pose a threat to him and as long as he can avoid the other 25 in the field he should have a fantastic chance of coming home in front.
the last three races will follow up here shortly
2:00 - Aintree Hurdle
As always its a top 3 mile hurdle in England and the race revolves around the unbelievable BIG BUCK'S who goes for his 17th straight career win. He needs no introduction and it would appear the only thing that can beat him today is himself. A few horses of notable each way value but the one that is closest to him in the betting is World Hurdle third SMAD PLACE for Robert Thornton. He has been a very admirable horse this year after opening up by romping home in a big handicap hurdle at Ascot then finishing second to Bourne the time after. There is no real reason that he should get closer to big bucks today though. WON IN THE DARK has run well in Champion hurdles before but as of late has found winning a tough thing to do in much lower grades than this and cant be fancied. ACROSS THE BAY and CRACK AWAY JACK look well out of their depth here. TIDAL BAY could be a bit of each way value if he is in the right frame of mind today but it is a bit of a gamble on which horse will turn up. RESTLESS HARRY has been consistent this year but found life tough last time out and has been on the go for a while now, he is swerved today. Each way preference is for Paul Nicholls' second string POUNGACH who was last seen being beaten 2 lengths by Oscar Whisky but this is over a longer trip and seeing as there is no reason he wont stay should be fighting for minor honours.
2:30 - Matalan Anniversary 4-Y-O hurdle
Alot of horses here who contested the Triumph hurdle on the Friday of Cheltenham, including eventual winner COUNTRYWIDE FLAME who has been reported to be in good health since his win, my only worry is that he has been on the go for a long time this season and could be vulnerable to less exposed types. Nicky Henderson swerved the Triumph with LYVIUS after losing at Newbury and to me he looks a bit short of the top. Saying that he will be fresh and could well be the each way value of the race on his step up in grade. GRUMETI looks to go off the favourite for the race after going off favourite at Cheltenham when 3rd. He is another that this race may just be one run too much for and others are preferred. HINTERLAND has two engagements at Cheltenham but ended up not taking either of them in preference to come here fit, there has been a little bit of market support for him this morning. He has looked fairly vulnerable at times this year and can be taken on. SADLERS RISK hasnt fulfilled the potential he promised in his first run when destroying the field in a novice hurdle. Since then he has been upped in class and has been found out it would seem, Aintree will be more up his street than Cheltenham though and should go closer today. GOTTANY O'S looked a really nice prospect when smashing Lyvius at Newbury but was since beaten at very short odds at Hexham, forgive the last run and he should be bang there for a stable in great form this season. Preference today however is for DODGING BULLETS who ran a brilliant race in the Triumph but may have hit the front too early there when stopping fairly quickly after the last when looking like a winner. If Noel Fehily can hold on to him then he should take all the beating after running such a good race at Kempton first up over hurdles.
3:05 - Betfred Bowl Chase
Today at Aintree could possibly see the end of a fairytale season for the most progressive chaser arguably ever in HUNT BALL who has had an unbelievable season be raised over 80 pounds in the handicap. I would say this race may be too early for him after a hard season but every time i say something against him he makes me look silly. But he should fine it tough today and others are preferred. Tony Mccoy hasnt been out of the placings when riding BURTON PORT who ran a cracker in the Gold Cup last time out, i just feel that for a fragile horse this may be too quick after Cheltenham for him. RIVERSIDE THEATRE is stepped up in trip but had a tough race at Cheltenham and others are fancied ahead of Barry Geraghty's choice. NACARAT is laid out for this race every year and finally got his head in front last year, the one thing he has over most of these is freshness after all but 3 ran at Cheltenham. He should again go well but may struggle to get his head in front. MEDERMIT looks like a bridesmaid but it stepped up to 3 miles for the first time, in my opinion this isnt the right race to step him up in trip after his Ryanair exploits, but who am i to question Alan King. He has place claims are best. CARRUTHERS and MASTER OF THE HALL are useful on their day but just look a bit short in this class so have to be opposed like last years third FOLLOW THE PLAN. DIAMOND HARRY is becoming frustrating to follow and he is another that looks a bit short at the top, but there is definitely a world of talent there and its just a case of finding the key with him. He is best watched at the moment. We are siding with WHAT A FRIEND today which may be a silly thing to say as he always looks a winner then doesnt go through with it. But you forget that he is really going to Aintree a fresh horse after falling at the second fence. Paul Nicholls is extremely bullish about his chances saying he has a serious serious chance, it would appear they fancy that today is his day. Before I end this race id just like to say how great it would be for Hunt Ball to win just to see Anthony Knott's celebration in the parade ring.
3:40 - John Smiths Fox Hunters' Chase
Here is the first lottery at the Aintree festival, if you can find the winner of this then good luck to you. CLOUDY LANE was favourite for the National a few years back and he has got round these fences before but he does need an extreme distance nowadays and will be staying on at the end of the day. As long as he can jump while in top gear he should be thereabouts. One that will have no problem with the pace is past winner SILVER ADONIS who seems to save his best for these fences and is coming somewhat of an Aintree Specialist and he seemed in good health last time out at Fakenham when winning. More than capable jockey on board helps. TEDDY'S REFLECTION is a huge price for a horse with alot of talent. If he can take to the National fences then i cant see any possible reason why he wouldnt be close up as everything is in his in favour. THE POLOMOCHE was a once very good horse and has showed this year he still has plenty of love for the game winning 2 of his last three but there may be one or two better in this field. BOXER GEORG ran a blinder in this race last year to come second and he showed a genuine love for the course, another performance like that will put him right in the mix and its hard to see him too far out of it. ISLAND LIFE has been well in himself after winning his last two and definitely deserves his place in the field today and also isnt without a chance after running in some good races over the years. OFFSHORE ACCOUNT could make his price look silly as in his younger years he was grade one winner in Ireland. An even bigger tick in his box is the fact that he has made is round the National fences before on more than one occasion. GWANAKO won the Topham as a 5 year old which has to be respected and is arguably the one they all have to beat today with the talented James Cowley on board. But he has disgraced himself before over these fences when sending Sam Thomas 20 foot into the air at the Chair. I think he is more than beatable and the one im taking him on with is MY WAY DE SOLZEN who is an ex Cheltenham festival winner. He is a sound enough jumper and the distance isnt a problem for him, I don't see why the fences should pose a threat to him and as long as he can avoid the other 25 in the field he should have a fantastic chance of coming home in front.
the last three races will follow up here shortly
Thursday, 2 February 2012
Selections For Today
One really strong selection today and also in a treble. The only National hunt action comes from Clonmel in Ireland today after Towcester and Wincanton fell victim to the weather.
The Nap of the day comes in the 2:40 Novice Hurdle, being boring and siding with the favourite here but FOLSOM BLUE really should not be beat. If you saw his last run he made some very good novices look very average when beating Star Neuville by nine and a half lengths on the bridle. Despite it being a strong race today the selection is an improving horse and there could even be more to come from him.
The horses to put in a treble with are COOLDINE and IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. The first selection won the RSA back in 2009 but has been out of sorts as of late. I have a feeling that the 5 pounds he is getting from The Midnight Club and that could just be enough to return to winning ways. Immediate Response has been off the track for a long time so may need the run, but you can bet your bottom dollar that Willie Mullins will have him fit.
The Nap of the day comes in the 2:40 Novice Hurdle, being boring and siding with the favourite here but FOLSOM BLUE really should not be beat. If you saw his last run he made some very good novices look very average when beating Star Neuville by nine and a half lengths on the bridle. Despite it being a strong race today the selection is an improving horse and there could even be more to come from him.
The horses to put in a treble with are COOLDINE and IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. The first selection won the RSA back in 2009 but has been out of sorts as of late. I have a feeling that the 5 pounds he is getting from The Midnight Club and that could just be enough to return to winning ways. Immediate Response has been off the track for a long time so may need the run, but you can bet your bottom dollar that Willie Mullins will have him fit.
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