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!
Showing posts with label Newbury. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Newbury. Show all posts
Friday, 8 February 2013
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
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, 18 May 2012
The Return Of Frankel
Well William Buick appreciation didn't go to plan with Arctic Cosmos getting beat miles out of sight. We did however get one winner with Laugh Out Loud who was 3/1 when I put the blog up, but went off at an SP of 15/8. Daneking almost gave us a nice double but just being outstayed and beaten a neck on the line. If i'm perfectly honest about today, there isn't alot that I fancy in today's racing so it will be a shorter one and also a bit different today.
If you aren't excited about the return of Frankel then you have something wrong with you, but today may be where he is most vulnerable on his return from injury. It's nice to see that he hasn't scared the class acts away with his old friend Excelebration taking him on again but now of course for Ballydoyle. For some reason Sir Henry Cecil still believes Frankel needs a Pacemaker which is why Bullet Train is there even though Ransom Note will probably be more than happy to lead. Excelebration has his own pacemaker in the race and has already left Joseph O'Brien red faced once this year, when leaving it too late on St. Nicholas Abbey. But for me Strong Suit could well be the one to chase home Frankel, he was a much improved horse last year and his Breeders Cup attempt was never going well. Lets hope Frankel can show us another fantastic performance and show us why he is the best horse in the world.
The race before that is a wide open handicap and this spells the return of a horse I have been very keen on seeing this year. He entered my notebook last year at Sandown when 7th behind Martin Chuzzlewit, he was running well when inexperience kicked in, and he threw away a place in the last 50 yards. It wasnt that, that caught my eye though. Before hand in the parade ring is where he caught my eye, his frame was alot bigger than any other horse in the field. He went on to score twice in two races on the turf at Lingfield and then at Goodwood before running into Main Sequence at Newmarket. He was beaten 5 lengths that day and gave the winner heaps of weight, since then Main Sequence has won a Derby trial and is now one of the main protagonists in the betting for the Derby. As long as Poetic Lord is racefit he will take all the beating today and is a fantastic bet at 14/1 (as tonight's prices are).
That really is my only fancy of the day but the only other horse I would consider backing with confidence is Thought Worthy. He gets 5 pounds from Frankel's brother Noble Mission and that should be enough to see him beaten today.
Sorry about the lack of selections today but hopefully Poetic Lord can land us a nice win at 14/1.
Happy Punting as always guys
If you aren't excited about the return of Frankel then you have something wrong with you, but today may be where he is most vulnerable on his return from injury. It's nice to see that he hasn't scared the class acts away with his old friend Excelebration taking him on again but now of course for Ballydoyle. For some reason Sir Henry Cecil still believes Frankel needs a Pacemaker which is why Bullet Train is there even though Ransom Note will probably be more than happy to lead. Excelebration has his own pacemaker in the race and has already left Joseph O'Brien red faced once this year, when leaving it too late on St. Nicholas Abbey. But for me Strong Suit could well be the one to chase home Frankel, he was a much improved horse last year and his Breeders Cup attempt was never going well. Lets hope Frankel can show us another fantastic performance and show us why he is the best horse in the world.
The race before that is a wide open handicap and this spells the return of a horse I have been very keen on seeing this year. He entered my notebook last year at Sandown when 7th behind Martin Chuzzlewit, he was running well when inexperience kicked in, and he threw away a place in the last 50 yards. It wasnt that, that caught my eye though. Before hand in the parade ring is where he caught my eye, his frame was alot bigger than any other horse in the field. He went on to score twice in two races on the turf at Lingfield and then at Goodwood before running into Main Sequence at Newmarket. He was beaten 5 lengths that day and gave the winner heaps of weight, since then Main Sequence has won a Derby trial and is now one of the main protagonists in the betting for the Derby. As long as Poetic Lord is racefit he will take all the beating today and is a fantastic bet at 14/1 (as tonight's prices are).
That really is my only fancy of the day but the only other horse I would consider backing with confidence is Thought Worthy. He gets 5 pounds from Frankel's brother Noble Mission and that should be enough to see him beaten today.
Sorry about the lack of selections today but hopefully Poetic Lord can land us a nice win at 14/1.
Happy Punting as always guys
Saturday, 24 March 2012
Winter Derby Day
We found a winner earlier in the week with Pinerolo and another Sue Smith winner with Dartford Warbler. We would have had 3 in a lucky 15 but we chose the wrong Sue Smith horse in the last race, but hey we made a tidy profit. I stuck with the trainer yesterday and it paid off with all 3 of hers winning at sedgefield (thank you Mr Mccoy). her record lately is incredible, only one horse in her last 6 runners has been beat (and even that was by her own horse), to say she is in form is an understatement. So for that reason we have to tip up all three of her's today at Kelso.
2:30 - Brother Scott
3:30 - Shadrack
4:05 - Highrate
I'd also like to add that its great to see Ryan Mania back in the saddle after he hung up his boots a while back and is riding winners left right and centre. But its Lingfield that take centre stage today with the Winter Derby.
Winter Derby - Plenty of horses with chances today and the market is wide open, Premio Loco is obviously the class act but this isnt his best trip and he carries a penalty. Junoob owes his connections nothing after being picked up from a claimer, if he continues his improvement he will be right there when it counts. Like the first mentioned Cai Shen has his first run of the year here today and others are preferred. One that will be fit is Soorah however. He is my pick today, he blew away the cobwebs when last of 8 at Meydan but then bounced back in fantastic style with a win on the same track, from his form it looks very much as if he enjoys the Lingfield surface and should take all the beating today.
2:40 - Newbury - Kentford grey lady clearly brings the best form to the table but she is fresh from a run at Cheltenham and may need a longer break. Cue to Cue is a consistent type but will need to step up on her game were she to land this prize today. Heather Royal is a strong each way bet and id be surprised were she not to make the frame today but may find one or two too good. Tante Sisse is the selection for today, a hard pulling mare usually but got her confidence up with a straight forward win against lesser opposition last time at Doncaster after going close 3 times before that. Tante Sisse to land it today.
Im going to have to cut this short as im going point to pointing today and am in a bit of a rush, i hope there are a few winners above for you and as always, Happy Punting.
2:30 - Brother Scott
3:30 - Shadrack
4:05 - Highrate
I'd also like to add that its great to see Ryan Mania back in the saddle after he hung up his boots a while back and is riding winners left right and centre. But its Lingfield that take centre stage today with the Winter Derby.
Winter Derby - Plenty of horses with chances today and the market is wide open, Premio Loco is obviously the class act but this isnt his best trip and he carries a penalty. Junoob owes his connections nothing after being picked up from a claimer, if he continues his improvement he will be right there when it counts. Like the first mentioned Cai Shen has his first run of the year here today and others are preferred. One that will be fit is Soorah however. He is my pick today, he blew away the cobwebs when last of 8 at Meydan but then bounced back in fantastic style with a win on the same track, from his form it looks very much as if he enjoys the Lingfield surface and should take all the beating today.
2:40 - Newbury - Kentford grey lady clearly brings the best form to the table but she is fresh from a run at Cheltenham and may need a longer break. Cue to Cue is a consistent type but will need to step up on her game were she to land this prize today. Heather Royal is a strong each way bet and id be surprised were she not to make the frame today but may find one or two too good. Tante Sisse is the selection for today, a hard pulling mare usually but got her confidence up with a straight forward win against lesser opposition last time at Doncaster after going close 3 times before that. Tante Sisse to land it today.
Im going to have to cut this short as im going point to pointing today and am in a bit of a rush, i hope there are a few winners above for you and as always, Happy Punting.
Saturday, 3 March 2012
Newbury 3rd March
A good day of racing this Saturday especially with it being so close to Cheltenham. Newbury hold their gold cup meeting which never fails to attract a few bigger names, this year is no exception.
2:05
A race that revolves around BUCK MAGIC and whether the bounce factor will hit him today after a good run coming off a long lay off last time round, an exciting novice 2 years ago missed a substantial part of his career through injury but if he can build on his Wincanton run then he should take all the beating, Barry Geraghty a very positive jockey booking. LOVE OF TARA has been running against higher opposition than today as of late and has been outclassed, return to handicap company today is a plus but may just want a bit more give in the ground. LAMBORO LAD was a huge gamble last time at Doncaster when coming 4th, more market support is pretty interesting for him today but will need to improve. ALWAYS WAINING will run his race again but saves his best for Aintree nowadays. CINDERELLA ROSE has been freshened up since his last win at Plumpton but before that was beaten out of sight by Violin Davis which may just account for his chance. THEATRICAL STAR has been running well without reward lately and had some classy bumper form behind Rock on Ruby and Montbazon, if he can produce that over hurdles he should take all the beating, it is a big if though. BENBENS is rated 7 pounds higher than he was for being beat a short head at Taunton last time, that was a weaker race but he is an improving horse and should go close. GODSMEJUDGE hails from an in form yard and is relatively unexposed compared to some of the others. This is a big step up in class though and more will be needed, far from out of it though. Preference today is for the much improved TARVINI who is an in running punters dream after sulking the last two runs and finishing with a rocket on his back. He has been given 99 days off the track to freshen him up and is two from two under Maurice Linehan who seems to have found the key to him. TARVINI to keep his improvement going today and land the opener.
2:20
A race that will always have a dark spot in my eyes after one of my favourite horses Eric's Charm sadly broke a leg in last year and had to be put down. But it is great to see these veteran chasers meet today and it isnt short of class this year. DOM D'ORGEVAL never really fulfilled his full potential but is still more than capable of running a good race. A fairly long layoff must be overcome today though and it could be that Nick Williams has something a bit more long term planned for him. HELLO BUD is a household favourite for many around the country and always runs his race, he may just be a bit long in the tooth now however and others are preferred. NICHE MARKET and FAIR ALONG are the class horses of the race with the latter being placed at the Cheltenham Festival last year and running into 3rd in the Hennessy at this track. A reproduction of that form should see him right there with a chance, be warned he can sulk over fences though. The former mentioned is an Ex Irish Grand National winner and has been placed in a Hennessy and an A-on at this course, will be tough to beat. OUZBECK seems to have lost some of his old sparkle of his younger years and is hard to fancy on that, but a return to form will see him close after a little lay off. MARUFO gets in off a low weight and could be very dangerous here after coming 3rd in a competitive affair at Sandown last time out. MARK THE BOOK won well last time out at Chepstow but seems to do all his winning on heavy going and shouldnt be able to land a punch today. WOGAN is an admirable sort who never seems to stop running and destroying a few fences on the way round. Saying that his jumping was very good at Doncaster last time before being outclassed by Faasel. Should go well today. Im siding with the once very highly rated hurdler BLAZING BAILEY who is from a yard bang in form and should find this easier to win that the big handicaps he has been trying as off late.
3:05
The main race today seems to revolve around the two pricewise horses who have been backed in considerably this morning. ARALDUR and FINE PARCHMENT. The former seems to be his own worst enemy during his races by making a few bad mistakes, but on his best form he is very hard to oppose. The latter won this race last year off a 3 pound lower mark, Gavin Sheehan's 10 pound claim is invaluable here and he should make the frame at least. DAVE'S DREAM has alot of ability but is starting to become a bit disappointing after promising so much in his younger years and is once again opposed today. PASCO loves it round here and should put up a good show once again but one or two look more appealing today. The Moore family have been raving about FIX THE RIB all week, a return to the form he showed two years ago when he was 14 lengths behind Master Minded in the Game Spirit should put him right there, has something to prove though. WOOLCOMBE FOLLY needs to be forgiven his last run to have any chance today but is slowly slipping down the handicap to a nice mark though, more is needed today though and it could be one or two more runs before we see him at his best. AERIAL won very nicely at Ascot and followed up with an admirable effort at Cheltenham last time behind The Giant Bolster. It does seem that the Handicapper has caught him however. RILEYEV was badly outpaced last week at Chepstow and ran on for fourth but races from 3 pounds out of the handicap and may find life tough today. MAD MAX is the selection today. Last time out was his return to action and wasn't asked of much at Haydock last time, dropped two pounds he is still a very lightly raced 10 year old but has had his problem. He was only 5 lengths behind Sizing Europe in the Arkle 2 years ago and would have probably won if he hadnt made a shocking mistake two out. Today will be his first test for new trainer Neil Mulholland and we will give him the nod to return to winning ways.
3:05
DUBAI CREST has something to prove after a very poor effort last time at Taunton, but he is dropped in trip and is best watched today. Two horses come from a very long layoff in this race today, BALGARRY and SIRE COLLONGES the former hasnt been seen on an English racecourse before but has won a 3 year old hurdle at Clairefontaine, for that reason he is a very interesting newcomer. The latter's best effort came here in this race last year and is 3 pounds higher than last years renewal. EBANOUR tries a handicap for the first time for a stable bang in form and is down in trip, it will be interesting to see how he adapts after being consistent in Novice company. LOOKS LIKE SLIM didnt get very far last time when unseating his rider, before that he had been going in the right direction and more improvement may be to come today. REBEL DANCER has something to prove at this level and is best opposed today. ORZARE ran a cracker in the Ladbroke but failed to build on that last time, forgive that run and he is in with a cracking chance. NAMPOUR ran a nice enough race coming off a very long layoff two races ago but didnt get too far when falling at the 3rd at Taunton last time, he was a very good horse in his younger days and im taking a gamble on him stripping fitter today and at least making the frame.
4:20
Oh goody another big handicap to dissect. QUOUSKO D'LISOP is becoming more and more frustrating and looks hard to back today. TESHALI always runs his race but does find winning hard to come by and usually isnt the strongest finisher. RULING PARTY is unexposed and has shown ability in his career so far, it would be no surprise to see him close today but a place may be his best hope. TICKATACK won a pretty weak affair at Southwell last time and may find life tougher today. BALLYQUIN QUEEN brings the best form to the table with a 3rd behind kentford grey lady at this track, he was bogged down last time in desperate going and it would be no surprise to see him go close today. HANDY ANDY needs to show alot more today and im not too sure why he is 6/1 but someone must know something so should be respected. GALIOTTO will strip alot fitter for his last flat outing 17 days ago and is a much better hurdler than he is on the flat and does have really strong each way credentials today. The selection is for the Charlie Longsdon trained BE MY LIGHT who returns to hurdles after not really taking too much to fences but reverting back to hurdles looks a positive mood, a useful 10 pound claimer is on board today and looks to have a nice weight with his claim.
4:55
BACK BOB BACK has been disappointing in his last two runs but before them won at this course in possibly a weaker contest than today and should be resepcted. CHENEY MANOR represents a powerful stable and has a good claimer on board that gets on well with him, he may just be playing for minor prize money today. SHAMMICK BOY has a bit about him but hasnt followed through with the talent he showed in his younger years, not without a chance today. PEPITE ROSE is strongly fancied by Aidan Coleman today even under a 7 pound penalty. As long as she can take the quick reappearance she will take all the beating.
happy punting today guys
Nap - Mad Max
2:05
A race that revolves around BUCK MAGIC and whether the bounce factor will hit him today after a good run coming off a long lay off last time round, an exciting novice 2 years ago missed a substantial part of his career through injury but if he can build on his Wincanton run then he should take all the beating, Barry Geraghty a very positive jockey booking. LOVE OF TARA has been running against higher opposition than today as of late and has been outclassed, return to handicap company today is a plus but may just want a bit more give in the ground. LAMBORO LAD was a huge gamble last time at Doncaster when coming 4th, more market support is pretty interesting for him today but will need to improve. ALWAYS WAINING will run his race again but saves his best for Aintree nowadays. CINDERELLA ROSE has been freshened up since his last win at Plumpton but before that was beaten out of sight by Violin Davis which may just account for his chance. THEATRICAL STAR has been running well without reward lately and had some classy bumper form behind Rock on Ruby and Montbazon, if he can produce that over hurdles he should take all the beating, it is a big if though. BENBENS is rated 7 pounds higher than he was for being beat a short head at Taunton last time, that was a weaker race but he is an improving horse and should go close. GODSMEJUDGE hails from an in form yard and is relatively unexposed compared to some of the others. This is a big step up in class though and more will be needed, far from out of it though. Preference today is for the much improved TARVINI who is an in running punters dream after sulking the last two runs and finishing with a rocket on his back. He has been given 99 days off the track to freshen him up and is two from two under Maurice Linehan who seems to have found the key to him. TARVINI to keep his improvement going today and land the opener.
2:20
A race that will always have a dark spot in my eyes after one of my favourite horses Eric's Charm sadly broke a leg in last year and had to be put down. But it is great to see these veteran chasers meet today and it isnt short of class this year. DOM D'ORGEVAL never really fulfilled his full potential but is still more than capable of running a good race. A fairly long layoff must be overcome today though and it could be that Nick Williams has something a bit more long term planned for him. HELLO BUD is a household favourite for many around the country and always runs his race, he may just be a bit long in the tooth now however and others are preferred. NICHE MARKET and FAIR ALONG are the class horses of the race with the latter being placed at the Cheltenham Festival last year and running into 3rd in the Hennessy at this track. A reproduction of that form should see him right there with a chance, be warned he can sulk over fences though. The former mentioned is an Ex Irish Grand National winner and has been placed in a Hennessy and an A-on at this course, will be tough to beat. OUZBECK seems to have lost some of his old sparkle of his younger years and is hard to fancy on that, but a return to form will see him close after a little lay off. MARUFO gets in off a low weight and could be very dangerous here after coming 3rd in a competitive affair at Sandown last time out. MARK THE BOOK won well last time out at Chepstow but seems to do all his winning on heavy going and shouldnt be able to land a punch today. WOGAN is an admirable sort who never seems to stop running and destroying a few fences on the way round. Saying that his jumping was very good at Doncaster last time before being outclassed by Faasel. Should go well today. Im siding with the once very highly rated hurdler BLAZING BAILEY who is from a yard bang in form and should find this easier to win that the big handicaps he has been trying as off late.
3:05
The main race today seems to revolve around the two pricewise horses who have been backed in considerably this morning. ARALDUR and FINE PARCHMENT. The former seems to be his own worst enemy during his races by making a few bad mistakes, but on his best form he is very hard to oppose. The latter won this race last year off a 3 pound lower mark, Gavin Sheehan's 10 pound claim is invaluable here and he should make the frame at least. DAVE'S DREAM has alot of ability but is starting to become a bit disappointing after promising so much in his younger years and is once again opposed today. PASCO loves it round here and should put up a good show once again but one or two look more appealing today. The Moore family have been raving about FIX THE RIB all week, a return to the form he showed two years ago when he was 14 lengths behind Master Minded in the Game Spirit should put him right there, has something to prove though. WOOLCOMBE FOLLY needs to be forgiven his last run to have any chance today but is slowly slipping down the handicap to a nice mark though, more is needed today though and it could be one or two more runs before we see him at his best. AERIAL won very nicely at Ascot and followed up with an admirable effort at Cheltenham last time behind The Giant Bolster. It does seem that the Handicapper has caught him however. RILEYEV was badly outpaced last week at Chepstow and ran on for fourth but races from 3 pounds out of the handicap and may find life tough today. MAD MAX is the selection today. Last time out was his return to action and wasn't asked of much at Haydock last time, dropped two pounds he is still a very lightly raced 10 year old but has had his problem. He was only 5 lengths behind Sizing Europe in the Arkle 2 years ago and would have probably won if he hadnt made a shocking mistake two out. Today will be his first test for new trainer Neil Mulholland and we will give him the nod to return to winning ways.
3:05
DUBAI CREST has something to prove after a very poor effort last time at Taunton, but he is dropped in trip and is best watched today. Two horses come from a very long layoff in this race today, BALGARRY and SIRE COLLONGES the former hasnt been seen on an English racecourse before but has won a 3 year old hurdle at Clairefontaine, for that reason he is a very interesting newcomer. The latter's best effort came here in this race last year and is 3 pounds higher than last years renewal. EBANOUR tries a handicap for the first time for a stable bang in form and is down in trip, it will be interesting to see how he adapts after being consistent in Novice company. LOOKS LIKE SLIM didnt get very far last time when unseating his rider, before that he had been going in the right direction and more improvement may be to come today. REBEL DANCER has something to prove at this level and is best opposed today. ORZARE ran a cracker in the Ladbroke but failed to build on that last time, forgive that run and he is in with a cracking chance. NAMPOUR ran a nice enough race coming off a very long layoff two races ago but didnt get too far when falling at the 3rd at Taunton last time, he was a very good horse in his younger days and im taking a gamble on him stripping fitter today and at least making the frame.
4:20
Oh goody another big handicap to dissect. QUOUSKO D'LISOP is becoming more and more frustrating and looks hard to back today. TESHALI always runs his race but does find winning hard to come by and usually isnt the strongest finisher. RULING PARTY is unexposed and has shown ability in his career so far, it would be no surprise to see him close today but a place may be his best hope. TICKATACK won a pretty weak affair at Southwell last time and may find life tougher today. BALLYQUIN QUEEN brings the best form to the table with a 3rd behind kentford grey lady at this track, he was bogged down last time in desperate going and it would be no surprise to see him go close today. HANDY ANDY needs to show alot more today and im not too sure why he is 6/1 but someone must know something so should be respected. GALIOTTO will strip alot fitter for his last flat outing 17 days ago and is a much better hurdler than he is on the flat and does have really strong each way credentials today. The selection is for the Charlie Longsdon trained BE MY LIGHT who returns to hurdles after not really taking too much to fences but reverting back to hurdles looks a positive mood, a useful 10 pound claimer is on board today and looks to have a nice weight with his claim.
4:55
BACK BOB BACK has been disappointing in his last two runs but before them won at this course in possibly a weaker contest than today and should be resepcted. CHENEY MANOR represents a powerful stable and has a good claimer on board that gets on well with him, he may just be playing for minor prize money today. SHAMMICK BOY has a bit about him but hasnt followed through with the talent he showed in his younger years, not without a chance today. PEPITE ROSE is strongly fancied by Aidan Coleman today even under a 7 pound penalty. As long as she can take the quick reappearance she will take all the beating.
happy punting today guys
Nap - Mad Max
Friday, 17 February 2012
Newbury on Friday continued....
1:50
An exciting Novice Hurdle in which you would be surprised if the winner didnt come from one of the top four. VULCANITE probably has the most to prove out of the lot but does look a good horse and has made the transition from the flat to hurdles very well. He could just be out of his depth in a race like this though. ALL THE ACES is another from the flat who has taken well to hurdles, i would rather be on the Henderson horse rather than the first mentioned. MONTBAZON is one of the leading horses in the Supreme Novices this year but hasnt been too impressive so far, a win today would give you more confidence, last time at Fontwell he won at 1/10 and it would have been worrying if he couldnt win that race. I got the feeling that his jumping isnt clean enough to win a race of this standard and has everything to prove. COLOUR SQUADRON is the selection today, he threw away his chance last time by hanging badly left in the Tolworth Hurdle last time. The opposite way round today and that should play to his strengths. TANERKO EMERY could be a better horse than the rest who fell on his first start under rules, he would be my idea of an each way bet.
2:25
A very competitive 3 mile hurdle with some more than interesting horses. none more so than JUNIOR and BUENA VISTA who wont quite be wound up yet with bigger targets set for them. GRABTHEGLORY unseated his rider last time out but before that had been progressing very nicely and is shaping into a very nice horse, i would expect him to go close again today. GULLINBURSTI is an exciting novice but was beaten last time by an exciting horse from Paul Nicholls. Ridden by Emma Lavelle's new stable jockey Noel Fehily he may just find a couple too good today but should give a good account of himself. QROKTOU has been running very well without reward but was beaten at odds on last time in a novice hurdle. EXTREME IMPACT has a ten pound claimer on board so has a fly weight to carry, he does seem to run his best races at Chepstow but is wouldnt be a surprise to see him pop up at a big price today. Paul Nicholls looks to hold the key to this one with DEIREADH RE, he got up to win his last race on the last stride which would suggest he will stay every yard of this race today. Harry Derham takes off 7 pounds who won on him last time out.
2:55
This race is a reminder about just how strong the Novice chase division is this year. MOSSLEY found only Bobs Worth too good at Cheltenham last year, he hasnt really set the world alight with his jumping and looks like a better hurdler than a chaser. One with something to prove. WALKON will appreciate the longer distance this time out and may be the biggest improver in the field. PACHA DU POLDER is capable but doesnt look good enough to trouble horses of this standard. The same may apply to MICHEAL FLIPS who is pretty exposed but could be experienced enough to play a hand in the finish today. OUR MICK is an improving horse and won well at Kempton on boxing day, however he may meet a few horses that are more forward in their chasing career than him today. CEDRE BLEU made a nice chasing debut when he beat the 'reluctant' Bellvano who won at kelso in the week. He jumped like a stag at most fences here first time out and could be a very good horse. My selection is FOR NON STOP here who will stay this trip all day, last time suffered a bad mistake at the first in the home straight last time behind Cue Card. Before that he pushed Al Ferof all the way to the line and it would be no surprise to see him come home in front today for Noel Fehily and Nick Williams.
3:30
VILLAGE VIC and GEVREY CHAMBERTIN both won their first starts at Chepstow, the latter is a full brother to Grand Crus and could have a bit about him after winning by 30 lengths on debut (admittedly he didnt beat much) but it was the way he did it. The former won just as impressively by 14 lengths but both were on heavy ground. SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR won a very competitive race at Ascot last time and has to be respected. VRAI VERT won nicely at Hereford last time out and holds leading claims. In truth most of these have a chance, and that includes David O'Meara's CHANCERY who was running a big race at Cheltenham in a bumper last time when just fading up the hill but finished a respectable second. That is who we are siding with today.
Happy Punting as always
An exciting Novice Hurdle in which you would be surprised if the winner didnt come from one of the top four. VULCANITE probably has the most to prove out of the lot but does look a good horse and has made the transition from the flat to hurdles very well. He could just be out of his depth in a race like this though. ALL THE ACES is another from the flat who has taken well to hurdles, i would rather be on the Henderson horse rather than the first mentioned. MONTBAZON is one of the leading horses in the Supreme Novices this year but hasnt been too impressive so far, a win today would give you more confidence, last time at Fontwell he won at 1/10 and it would have been worrying if he couldnt win that race. I got the feeling that his jumping isnt clean enough to win a race of this standard and has everything to prove. COLOUR SQUADRON is the selection today, he threw away his chance last time by hanging badly left in the Tolworth Hurdle last time. The opposite way round today and that should play to his strengths. TANERKO EMERY could be a better horse than the rest who fell on his first start under rules, he would be my idea of an each way bet.
2:25
A very competitive 3 mile hurdle with some more than interesting horses. none more so than JUNIOR and BUENA VISTA who wont quite be wound up yet with bigger targets set for them. GRABTHEGLORY unseated his rider last time out but before that had been progressing very nicely and is shaping into a very nice horse, i would expect him to go close again today. GULLINBURSTI is an exciting novice but was beaten last time by an exciting horse from Paul Nicholls. Ridden by Emma Lavelle's new stable jockey Noel Fehily he may just find a couple too good today but should give a good account of himself. QROKTOU has been running very well without reward but was beaten at odds on last time in a novice hurdle. EXTREME IMPACT has a ten pound claimer on board so has a fly weight to carry, he does seem to run his best races at Chepstow but is wouldnt be a surprise to see him pop up at a big price today. Paul Nicholls looks to hold the key to this one with DEIREADH RE, he got up to win his last race on the last stride which would suggest he will stay every yard of this race today. Harry Derham takes off 7 pounds who won on him last time out.
2:55
This race is a reminder about just how strong the Novice chase division is this year. MOSSLEY found only Bobs Worth too good at Cheltenham last year, he hasnt really set the world alight with his jumping and looks like a better hurdler than a chaser. One with something to prove. WALKON will appreciate the longer distance this time out and may be the biggest improver in the field. PACHA DU POLDER is capable but doesnt look good enough to trouble horses of this standard. The same may apply to MICHEAL FLIPS who is pretty exposed but could be experienced enough to play a hand in the finish today. OUR MICK is an improving horse and won well at Kempton on boxing day, however he may meet a few horses that are more forward in their chasing career than him today. CEDRE BLEU made a nice chasing debut when he beat the 'reluctant' Bellvano who won at kelso in the week. He jumped like a stag at most fences here first time out and could be a very good horse. My selection is FOR NON STOP here who will stay this trip all day, last time suffered a bad mistake at the first in the home straight last time behind Cue Card. Before that he pushed Al Ferof all the way to the line and it would be no surprise to see him come home in front today for Noel Fehily and Nick Williams.
3:30
VILLAGE VIC and GEVREY CHAMBERTIN both won their first starts at Chepstow, the latter is a full brother to Grand Crus and could have a bit about him after winning by 30 lengths on debut (admittedly he didnt beat much) but it was the way he did it. The former won just as impressively by 14 lengths but both were on heavy ground. SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR won a very competitive race at Ascot last time and has to be respected. VRAI VERT won nicely at Hereford last time out and holds leading claims. In truth most of these have a chance, and that includes David O'Meara's CHANCERY who was running a big race at Cheltenham in a bumper last time when just fading up the hill but finished a respectable second. That is who we are siding with today.
Happy Punting as always
Newbury on Friday
A big meeting today at Newbury, unfortunately for me i cant go to the meeting today after originally having tickets to last Saturday. But well done to Newbury for staging this re-arranged card and also for granting free entry.
12:10
A race that fell apart after Cue Card's withdrawal, which probably took away most of the value from the race. SPRINTER SACRE looks the sure winner if he can have a clear round, Barry Geraghty has been quoted as saying he is one of the best he is ridden. His biggest threat today is probably going to be the improving Paul Nicholls horse HOLD FAST, who last time could hardly have been more impressive when winning a pretty competitive handicap at Sandown on his second start for the yard, it is also interesting that he holds a Champion Chase entry and it will be interesting to see just how good he is. FRENCH OPERA won this race last year and is a very classy 2 mile chaser, but is the Henderson second string and will probably need the run, it could just be that his target is the Celebration Chase at Sandown at the end of the year. ZAYNAR is a very tough horse to predict, he could bolt up one day (like he did at Ascot) or never go a yard. However it looks that Nick Williams has rejuvenated the Grey Gelding who is now back running consistently. It does look like he is biting off more than he can chew here but if at his best definitely has place claims. IM SO LUCKY ran a good race for a long way in the Champion Chase behind Sizing Europe but faded on the turn for home and you would imagine this is too much for his as could be said for KINKEEL who is only there for minor place money. SPRINTER SACRE should take all the beating here though.
12:40
A race that revolves all around the defending Gold Cup champion LONG RUN who really does need to win this race if he is going to stake his Gold Cup claims. BURTON PORT is very interesting but should need the run and may have a more long term target this year. TIDAL BAY always seems to find at least one too good nowadays but on his day is more than capable, it should be that he isnt classy enough to beat the Henderson charge but definite each way claims. If WHAT A FRIEND runs to his Gold Cup form then he is a serious threat to the favourite, but he really does need to step up his game for this race if he is going to land a blow. THE GIANT BOLSTER rounds up the field and won impressively last time at Cheltenham but in a Handicap and has to give 6 pounds to everything but LONG RUN today and will take a mighty effort for him to be involved.
1:15
A race full of class with a Triumph Hurdle winner and the first two home in last years County Hurdle lining up in the field. We will start with RAYA STAR who took advantage of a slowly run Ladbroke Hurdle last time to land his big race. He should find a 5 pound rise too much but still has each way claims. OLOFI was running a big race last time at this track when coming down at this track last time out behind Celestial Halo. Big market support is very interesting for him. EMPIRE LEVANT won a Handicap Hurdle at Newbury two runs ago very impressively then found only Rock on Ruby too good two days later, reproduction of that form should put him close. Keep in mind he is 12 pounds higher for them two runs. BRAMPOUR has run some very good races this year but the handicapper seems to have caught him now, Harry Derham takes off 7 pounds, but that still may not be enough. DESERT CRY will appreciate a strong gallop but would appreciate softer ground than this. SIRE DE GRUGY had a run at Chepstow to put him straight and will be alot fitter today, he was an exciting novice last year but will need to come on if he is going to get closer today. DARLAN was very impressive last time under Barry Geraghty at Taunton last time, but it has been questioned how much he actually had left then. Before that at Cheltenham he won a battling finish which will only help him in today's company. ABERGAVENNY won a flat race at Southwell last time out and has been well in himself but may just come against one or two good horses, saying that he is nicely handicapped and would be no surprise to see him run well. Market support very interesting. GET ME OUT OF HERE and FINAL APPROACH contested the County hurdle last year. On that occasion the latter got on top right on the line. Since then he hasnt done much but finishing 10 lengths behind Voler La Vedette is a good effort and its interesting that Willie Mullins brings him over for today. The former finished a nose behind in the County and was giving away 9 pounds at Cheltenham. He is only one pound higher today but that is eliminated by Maurice Linehan's 7 pound claim today. He has been running over longer distances (second to Oscar Whisky last time) but a return to his best should see him go close. THIRD INTENTION looks a good horse and Colin Tizzard is adamant he is a better horse than we have seen so far. The race really does revolve around ZARKANDAR though who is one of the main challengers to Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle in March. Its no secret that Paul Nicholls doesnt have him 100% for this race and for this reason i am going to oppose him in this big field this afternoon with JP McManus' second string, GET ME OUT OF HERE. It is a gamble on him returning to his best but last time ran a very good race at Cheltenham and his jockeys claim in invaluable. If at his best he will take all the beating.
other races to follow....
12:10
A race that fell apart after Cue Card's withdrawal, which probably took away most of the value from the race. SPRINTER SACRE looks the sure winner if he can have a clear round, Barry Geraghty has been quoted as saying he is one of the best he is ridden. His biggest threat today is probably going to be the improving Paul Nicholls horse HOLD FAST, who last time could hardly have been more impressive when winning a pretty competitive handicap at Sandown on his second start for the yard, it is also interesting that he holds a Champion Chase entry and it will be interesting to see just how good he is. FRENCH OPERA won this race last year and is a very classy 2 mile chaser, but is the Henderson second string and will probably need the run, it could just be that his target is the Celebration Chase at Sandown at the end of the year. ZAYNAR is a very tough horse to predict, he could bolt up one day (like he did at Ascot) or never go a yard. However it looks that Nick Williams has rejuvenated the Grey Gelding who is now back running consistently. It does look like he is biting off more than he can chew here but if at his best definitely has place claims. IM SO LUCKY ran a good race for a long way in the Champion Chase behind Sizing Europe but faded on the turn for home and you would imagine this is too much for his as could be said for KINKEEL who is only there for minor place money. SPRINTER SACRE should take all the beating here though.
12:40
A race that revolves all around the defending Gold Cup champion LONG RUN who really does need to win this race if he is going to stake his Gold Cup claims. BURTON PORT is very interesting but should need the run and may have a more long term target this year. TIDAL BAY always seems to find at least one too good nowadays but on his day is more than capable, it should be that he isnt classy enough to beat the Henderson charge but definite each way claims. If WHAT A FRIEND runs to his Gold Cup form then he is a serious threat to the favourite, but he really does need to step up his game for this race if he is going to land a blow. THE GIANT BOLSTER rounds up the field and won impressively last time at Cheltenham but in a Handicap and has to give 6 pounds to everything but LONG RUN today and will take a mighty effort for him to be involved.
1:15
A race full of class with a Triumph Hurdle winner and the first two home in last years County Hurdle lining up in the field. We will start with RAYA STAR who took advantage of a slowly run Ladbroke Hurdle last time to land his big race. He should find a 5 pound rise too much but still has each way claims. OLOFI was running a big race last time at this track when coming down at this track last time out behind Celestial Halo. Big market support is very interesting for him. EMPIRE LEVANT won a Handicap Hurdle at Newbury two runs ago very impressively then found only Rock on Ruby too good two days later, reproduction of that form should put him close. Keep in mind he is 12 pounds higher for them two runs. BRAMPOUR has run some very good races this year but the handicapper seems to have caught him now, Harry Derham takes off 7 pounds, but that still may not be enough. DESERT CRY will appreciate a strong gallop but would appreciate softer ground than this. SIRE DE GRUGY had a run at Chepstow to put him straight and will be alot fitter today, he was an exciting novice last year but will need to come on if he is going to get closer today. DARLAN was very impressive last time under Barry Geraghty at Taunton last time, but it has been questioned how much he actually had left then. Before that at Cheltenham he won a battling finish which will only help him in today's company. ABERGAVENNY won a flat race at Southwell last time out and has been well in himself but may just come against one or two good horses, saying that he is nicely handicapped and would be no surprise to see him run well. Market support very interesting. GET ME OUT OF HERE and FINAL APPROACH contested the County hurdle last year. On that occasion the latter got on top right on the line. Since then he hasnt done much but finishing 10 lengths behind Voler La Vedette is a good effort and its interesting that Willie Mullins brings him over for today. The former finished a nose behind in the County and was giving away 9 pounds at Cheltenham. He is only one pound higher today but that is eliminated by Maurice Linehan's 7 pound claim today. He has been running over longer distances (second to Oscar Whisky last time) but a return to his best should see him go close. THIRD INTENTION looks a good horse and Colin Tizzard is adamant he is a better horse than we have seen so far. The race really does revolve around ZARKANDAR though who is one of the main challengers to Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle in March. Its no secret that Paul Nicholls doesnt have him 100% for this race and for this reason i am going to oppose him in this big field this afternoon with JP McManus' second string, GET ME OUT OF HERE. It is a gamble on him returning to his best but last time ran a very good race at Cheltenham and his jockeys claim in invaluable. If at his best he will take all the beating.
other races to follow....
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