Good Morning or Evening, depending on what time you are reading this, but thank you for coming here nonetheless! You join us on one of the best racedays of the year with many festival clues to be had across the country especially up at Newcastle. They hold the yearly Fighting Fifth Hurdle won last year by Countrywide Flame but has names on the trophy such as Sea Pigeon, Kribensis and Comedy Of Errors. The other big meeting comes from Newbury who stage the Hennessy Gold Cup won last year by Bobs Worth who of course went on to win the Gold Cup. They also go to post at Towcester, Bangor, Wolverhampton and over in Ireland they race at Fairyhouse where Flat Out returns after 1042 days off.
We had just the one winner last week with Alasi as she narrowly held on at Ascot and Mac Aeda took a tumble when still going well. The one you should all put in your tracker is Tokyo Brown however who turned for home 3 lengths clear before fading late on finishing out of the places. That was off the back of a long lay off and he will be winning next time out, so keep him on your side.
As always we have a video prepared for you covering tomorrow's races but unfortunately due to technical issues I was only joined by Michael Andrews (@mytentoryours) this week. You can follow me on twitter on @Lukeelder13 and watch the video by clicking on the following link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTIKvPv5FjU
A few weeks ago I went to visit Martin Smith's yard who is a trainer based in Newmarket and will be unleashing more of his string over the coming weeks. He has already had his first winner earlier this week with Boris The Bold at Kempton who returned at 14/1. Watch the stable tour by clicking on the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Favvx9Tdi2M&list=FLezAefNM6xM_sGDsrGUwjjQ
Onto this week's selections!
1:30 Bangor - Fentara
Tim Walford has Fentara off a winning mark now and Will Biddick takes a further 5 pounds off meaning he only carries 11-7 now. Although she is the only one in the field yet to have a start this season but does go well fresh having won twice and placed a further two more times after a break. The ground is set to be on the testing side which is exactly what Fentara needs to be seen to best effect with all her wins on soft or worse. Her season was aimed towards the big Mares chase at Newbury later in the season but that was abandoned when she was favourite. One last key point is that since the application of cheek pieces her form reads 132 and still looks to have something in hand. Fentara to make up for last year and gain a deserved success today. (2/1)
1:55 Fairyhouse - Some Tikket
This is a bit of an odd selection for this blog and a rare visit to Ireland as we side with Dessie Hughes' horse Some Tikket who fell on chase debut. He was still well in with a chance that day when coming down at the last and was up straight away so clearly had no immediate effects. Back into his hurdling days he had some smart form earlier in his career when winning his Maiden Hurdle easily before being well beaten by Mala Beach. Obviously today is a big ask for him in a 20 runner Beginners Chase but his running style will help him out as he shouldn't see a rival from the front. Some Tikket to make all and break his maiden tag over fences. (No Price Yet)
2:05 Newcastle - Duke Of Navan
Duke Of Navan is one that you all may scoff at a little as My Tent Or Yours is in the field and looks near unbeatable with Melodic Rendezvous 2nd in the betting. However Nicky Richards holds this one in very high regard and won the Morebattle last year, albeit a below par renewal of the race. The form that will stick out to most people is when 4th at Cheltenham behind Dodging Bullets, that form alone isn't good enough but it was very slowly run and not his true self. The real reason for me putting him up as a selection is that at the time of writing there are 8 runners meaning the places go down to third. He will certainly get third in my mind and it would be no surprise to see him split the main two in the betting, but he could certainly cause a shock. (28/1)
2:40 Newcastle - Baile Anrai
Onto one now who is certainly for win purposes from the in form Dan Skelton yard and is his only runner today. He gets in off a lowly weight of 10-3 today and also his lowest weight for some time over fences which must be noted. Also worth noting is the stable move, as mentioned before he is now with Dan Skelton after previously at Ian Williams yard. First time out for his new yard this year he ran an encouraging third at Huntingdon over hurdles but was outpaced over the shorter trip, the return to three miles is in his favour. Baile Anrai to refind the winning thread. (13/2)
3:00 Newbury - Katenko
Our last runner today is one that I consider to be a leading candidate for the Cheltenham Gold Cup as he was back in March before disaster struck. He picked up Colic (twisted gut) and was fortunately saved to fight another day as some aren't that lucky with this horrible illness. If he returns anywhere near the same horse that destroyed a good handicap field by 12 lengths at Cheltenham then he must go close today.That is a big if though as he is off the back of a big break and still has to prove he is the same horse after that bout of Colic. Katenko to continue his improvement for the in form Venetia Williams yard. (14/1)
NAP - Fentara
Nb - Baile Anrai
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 29 November 2013
Friday, 22 November 2013
Moore Of The Game At Huntingdon
Good morning racing fans and a big congratulations for making it through another work week, your reward? A big Saturday of racing of course. Today's main meeting comes from Haydock who stage their yearly Betfair Chase in which Silviniaco Conti aims to go back to back in the race. He faces stern opposition from last year's Gold Cup hero Bobs Worth and winner of the Ryanair, Cue Card who's stamina gets tested again. Also on the cards today is the Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot which see's the return of the exciting chaser Al Ferof as he faces two rivals. They also go to post at Huntingdon and on the polytrack at Lingfield as well as Wolverhampton in the evening.
Last week Le Bec got us out of trouble as the others disappointed, but at least we got off to a good start which counts for something... Right? As always we have prepared a video for you all covering tomorrow's Channel 4 races and i'm once again joined by the regulars. Amongst our regulars is Calum Madell (@Calummadell) who owns Magnifique Etoile, he of course runs in todays Ascot hurdle and we get the inside scoop on him. Making up the panel was Michael Andrews (@mytentoryours) and Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dA5TE6L_blQ
Now onto today's racing!
2:15 Huntingdon - The Game Is A Foot
The Game Is A Foot improved to win at Plumpton on Monday and win well on that occasion. Gary Moore brings him up to Huntingdon under a penalty instead of waiting for the Handicapper to have his say. Josh Moore has been on fire lately with 4 of his last 11 rides being winners and 3 more being placed, including a win on this horse on Monday. I was at Plumpton that day and rushed to the winners enclosure to see him in and he would have hardly blown a candle out and definitely looks a horse going in the right direction. Before hand he didn't have much form that would be worthy of winning this but he is clearly in fine form with himself and could once again be well in at the weights. The Game Is A Foot to get today off to a flying start albeit at a short price. (6/5)
3:15 Ascot - Alasi
Paul Webber's mare is one that I have admired for a long time now as she never seems to run a bad race, that was no different last time out. She took on horses of her own sex at Wetherby and was in the firing line for a long time before fading late to finish eight and three quarter lengths behind the progressive Cockney Sparrow. The strongest form to her name however is when beating Champion Court by a neck over fences earlier this year, albeit a Champion Court that wasn't 100% right that day. She runs off the lowest handicap mark for a while today in 135. Alasi to get her day in the sun today at Ascot. (7/1)
3:35 Haydock - Mac Aeda
Mac Aeda was well backed on his reappearance but could manage no better than third behind Ultimate, however has never won after a break, so it was to be expected. He will strip much fitter for that run and off the winning mark of 125 can take all the beating in what is sure to be a stamina test. If you look at the races Mac Aeda has won you will find that he relishes a real stamina sapping race and has twice been the victor over this trip. The main danger could come in the form of The Rainbow Hunter but his day like many in this race will be the Grand National in April.
7:20 Wolverhampton - Tokyo Brown
Believe it or not, Tokyo Brown is one that I have been following for a good while now, ever since he was third in a strong Maiden at Lingfield behind Clowance Estate. Despite catching my eye he has never won and has since been off for just over a year which isn't a massive negative in my eyes. I was at Lingfield last week and Heather Main had two horses running that day running off massive layoffs yet still ran well, signifying the yard can ready one after a break. The jockey booking is also a huge positive with Luke Morris taking the reins today. Tokyo Brown to win after a break. (8/1)
NAP - The Game Is A Foot
Nb - Tokyo Brown
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Last week Le Bec got us out of trouble as the others disappointed, but at least we got off to a good start which counts for something... Right? As always we have prepared a video for you all covering tomorrow's Channel 4 races and i'm once again joined by the regulars. Amongst our regulars is Calum Madell (@Calummadell) who owns Magnifique Etoile, he of course runs in todays Ascot hurdle and we get the inside scoop on him. Making up the panel was Michael Andrews (@mytentoryours) and Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dA5TE6L_blQ
Now onto today's racing!
2:15 Huntingdon - The Game Is A Foot
The Game Is A Foot improved to win at Plumpton on Monday and win well on that occasion. Gary Moore brings him up to Huntingdon under a penalty instead of waiting for the Handicapper to have his say. Josh Moore has been on fire lately with 4 of his last 11 rides being winners and 3 more being placed, including a win on this horse on Monday. I was at Plumpton that day and rushed to the winners enclosure to see him in and he would have hardly blown a candle out and definitely looks a horse going in the right direction. Before hand he didn't have much form that would be worthy of winning this but he is clearly in fine form with himself and could once again be well in at the weights. The Game Is A Foot to get today off to a flying start albeit at a short price. (6/5)
3:15 Ascot - Alasi
Paul Webber's mare is one that I have admired for a long time now as she never seems to run a bad race, that was no different last time out. She took on horses of her own sex at Wetherby and was in the firing line for a long time before fading late to finish eight and three quarter lengths behind the progressive Cockney Sparrow. The strongest form to her name however is when beating Champion Court by a neck over fences earlier this year, albeit a Champion Court that wasn't 100% right that day. She runs off the lowest handicap mark for a while today in 135. Alasi to get her day in the sun today at Ascot. (7/1)
3:35 Haydock - Mac Aeda
Mac Aeda was well backed on his reappearance but could manage no better than third behind Ultimate, however has never won after a break, so it was to be expected. He will strip much fitter for that run and off the winning mark of 125 can take all the beating in what is sure to be a stamina test. If you look at the races Mac Aeda has won you will find that he relishes a real stamina sapping race and has twice been the victor over this trip. The main danger could come in the form of The Rainbow Hunter but his day like many in this race will be the Grand National in April.
7:20 Wolverhampton - Tokyo Brown
Believe it or not, Tokyo Brown is one that I have been following for a good while now, ever since he was third in a strong Maiden at Lingfield behind Clowance Estate. Despite catching my eye he has never won and has since been off for just over a year which isn't a massive negative in my eyes. I was at Lingfield last week and Heather Main had two horses running that day running off massive layoffs yet still ran well, signifying the yard can ready one after a break. The jockey booking is also a huge positive with Luke Morris taking the reins today. Tokyo Brown to win after a break. (8/1)
NAP - The Game Is A Foot
Nb - Tokyo Brown
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 15 November 2013
Williams To Pay For A Beer Or Two
Good Morning racing fans I trust you enjoyed yesterday's action at Cheltenham and your National Hunt buzz is in full flow, if its not already it will be after today. Many regard today's action as one of the top days racing in the season behind the Festival in March and Hennessy day at Newbury. It is the Open Meeting at Prestbury Park and the main day of course features the Paddypower Gold Cup won last year by the exciting Al Ferof. The race has a long list of top class winners including Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Imperial Commander, Exotic Dancer and Our Vic.
We are spoiled for choice once again today for racing, as previously mentioned Cheltenham have the big meeting of the day but Uttoxeter and Wetherby also hold National Hunt cards. Supporting them on the polytrack is Lingfield who hold the Listed Churchill Stakes whereas Wolverhampton race under the floodlights this evening. The exciting recruit to chasing and last years Supreme Novices winner, Champagne Fever, makes his debut today at Punchestown who host an 8 race card.
As always we have prepared a video for you all, this week previewing the Cheltenham card for today and once again joined by George Gorman who gave us the inside scoop on Gary Moore's weekend runners. As usual I was joined by the regular panel of Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours) and Calum Madell (@Calummadell). You can also find George on twitter by searching for @GeorgeFGorman. Watch the video in the link below!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53vakFih6Ms
Now onto today's selections after landing a 50/1 winner last week with Miss Cap Estel!!
1:15 Cheltenham - Le Bec
This race is intriguing as so many festival 'bubbles' could be burst in this event alone. A fitting place to start would be the favourite and a horse that has been called a Gold Cup horse by connections, of course I am talking about AFRICAN GOLD. Last season he was a leading contender for the Albert Bartlett before finding only At Fishers Cross too good and had LE BEC behind him that day. Unlike Nigel Twiston-Davies' charge, LE BEC has had a run over the larger obstacles in which he won cosily and was always in control down the home straight. He would have learned a lot from that day and is expected to come on a lot for the run, despite having to give AFRICAN GOLD 5 pounds today. He is one that has always looked a chaser and looks to remain unbeaten like the Jonjo O'Neill trained SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR. His only outing over fences was at Aintree 21 days ago when he edged out the promising Beeves late on although he had something left up his sleeve. He has also tasted the Festival experience when running a good fourth behind Holywell in last years Pertemps Final. Dessie Hughes has two representatives at Cheltenham today and his second runner is WHITE STAR LINE who is already a National winner. By that I mean he won the Kerry National at Listowel back in September but won again at Clonmel last time albeit maybe a tad fortuitous. He has the most chasing experience in the field and has to give weight all round including the interesting SAM WINNER who has already had two attempts at the Chasing game. Unfortunately both of them ended in him falling and one of them he sustained a serious injury but on the whole his jumping was good. If them two experiences haven't scarred him mentally then he could be a real player today for the Paul Nicholls yard. The other contender today is BOB FORD who put it up to Taquin Du Seuil on chasing debut but looks up against it today. Preference is for LE BEC who hails from the bang in form yard of Emma Lavelle and Noel Fehily who cant do much wrong at present. (4/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Tour Des Champs
Tour Des Champs gets in here off a very low weight of 10-1 and is one of the last ones within the handicap after his mark remains unchanged from last time. He ended last season with a good fourth in the Scottish National behind Godsmejudge who reopposes today on worse terms. First time out this season however he was a good 2nd behind Balthazar King who of course won yesterday's Cross Country race. The step up in trip for Tour Des Champs however is a positive and he seldom runs a bad race but has been slipping down the handicap in the process. Team Twiston-Davies haven't quite been in the form we are accustomed to at this time of year but they dont send horses to Cheltenham without a chance. Tour Des Champs to go one better than last time. (8/1)
2:30 Cheltenham - Woolcombe Folly
Paul Nicholls took this last year with Al Ferof and this year is represented by only Woolcombe Folly who has been dropped two pounds for his last effort. Today is an extra 110 yards but that wouldnt have stopped him getting 2nd behind Johns Spirit had he jumped the last well. Alas he made a mistake that cost him big time and he finished only sixth but on the plus side he is dropped a further two pounds. This is an odd race in the sense that you cant find anything that is really well handicapped, instead everything looks on an honest mark. Woolcombe Folly was once fancied for a Champion Chase and always performs well in these kind of events so is taken to land todays prize at a good price. (33/1)
3:35 Cheltenham - Toubeera
Today's NAP comes in the form of Toubeera for Venetia Williams who was impressive on her last two starts last season at Huntingdon and Uttoxeter. This is obviously a much bigger ask but we haven't even scraped the bottom of the barrel regarding her ability and this is well within her. She is a big horse and as a result has taken a bit of time to grow into herself but looks to have the world at her feet this season and is a horse going places for sure. Usually Venetia Williams doesn't have her string in dazzling form but this year she has been having winners left, right and centre. Toubeera to land today's race and use this as a stepping stone towards bigger and better things. (15/2)
4:05 Cheltenham - Flementime
Flementime looked a very promising horse in early 2012 but after a good sixth at Aintree in their big Mares bumper she injured her leg and has been given time off since. It is odd for anyone to be tipping a horse who hasn't seen the track for 582 days but connections are excited about this one and at home he works with Champion Court. Obviously he is one of Martin Keighley's best horses if not his best horse so for a bumper horse to already be considered that good is rare and must be noted. Flementime to go well in the bumper. (16/1)
NAP - Toubeera
Nb - Flementime
Good luck today guys and lets hope for another big winner this week!!
We are spoiled for choice once again today for racing, as previously mentioned Cheltenham have the big meeting of the day but Uttoxeter and Wetherby also hold National Hunt cards. Supporting them on the polytrack is Lingfield who hold the Listed Churchill Stakes whereas Wolverhampton race under the floodlights this evening. The exciting recruit to chasing and last years Supreme Novices winner, Champagne Fever, makes his debut today at Punchestown who host an 8 race card.
As always we have prepared a video for you all, this week previewing the Cheltenham card for today and once again joined by George Gorman who gave us the inside scoop on Gary Moore's weekend runners. As usual I was joined by the regular panel of Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours) and Calum Madell (@Calummadell). You can also find George on twitter by searching for @GeorgeFGorman. Watch the video in the link below!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53vakFih6Ms
Now onto today's selections after landing a 50/1 winner last week with Miss Cap Estel!!
1:15 Cheltenham - Le Bec
This race is intriguing as so many festival 'bubbles' could be burst in this event alone. A fitting place to start would be the favourite and a horse that has been called a Gold Cup horse by connections, of course I am talking about AFRICAN GOLD. Last season he was a leading contender for the Albert Bartlett before finding only At Fishers Cross too good and had LE BEC behind him that day. Unlike Nigel Twiston-Davies' charge, LE BEC has had a run over the larger obstacles in which he won cosily and was always in control down the home straight. He would have learned a lot from that day and is expected to come on a lot for the run, despite having to give AFRICAN GOLD 5 pounds today. He is one that has always looked a chaser and looks to remain unbeaten like the Jonjo O'Neill trained SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR. His only outing over fences was at Aintree 21 days ago when he edged out the promising Beeves late on although he had something left up his sleeve. He has also tasted the Festival experience when running a good fourth behind Holywell in last years Pertemps Final. Dessie Hughes has two representatives at Cheltenham today and his second runner is WHITE STAR LINE who is already a National winner. By that I mean he won the Kerry National at Listowel back in September but won again at Clonmel last time albeit maybe a tad fortuitous. He has the most chasing experience in the field and has to give weight all round including the interesting SAM WINNER who has already had two attempts at the Chasing game. Unfortunately both of them ended in him falling and one of them he sustained a serious injury but on the whole his jumping was good. If them two experiences haven't scarred him mentally then he could be a real player today for the Paul Nicholls yard. The other contender today is BOB FORD who put it up to Taquin Du Seuil on chasing debut but looks up against it today. Preference is for LE BEC who hails from the bang in form yard of Emma Lavelle and Noel Fehily who cant do much wrong at present. (4/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Tour Des Champs
Tour Des Champs gets in here off a very low weight of 10-1 and is one of the last ones within the handicap after his mark remains unchanged from last time. He ended last season with a good fourth in the Scottish National behind Godsmejudge who reopposes today on worse terms. First time out this season however he was a good 2nd behind Balthazar King who of course won yesterday's Cross Country race. The step up in trip for Tour Des Champs however is a positive and he seldom runs a bad race but has been slipping down the handicap in the process. Team Twiston-Davies haven't quite been in the form we are accustomed to at this time of year but they dont send horses to Cheltenham without a chance. Tour Des Champs to go one better than last time. (8/1)
2:30 Cheltenham - Woolcombe Folly
Paul Nicholls took this last year with Al Ferof and this year is represented by only Woolcombe Folly who has been dropped two pounds for his last effort. Today is an extra 110 yards but that wouldnt have stopped him getting 2nd behind Johns Spirit had he jumped the last well. Alas he made a mistake that cost him big time and he finished only sixth but on the plus side he is dropped a further two pounds. This is an odd race in the sense that you cant find anything that is really well handicapped, instead everything looks on an honest mark. Woolcombe Folly was once fancied for a Champion Chase and always performs well in these kind of events so is taken to land todays prize at a good price. (33/1)
3:35 Cheltenham - Toubeera
Today's NAP comes in the form of Toubeera for Venetia Williams who was impressive on her last two starts last season at Huntingdon and Uttoxeter. This is obviously a much bigger ask but we haven't even scraped the bottom of the barrel regarding her ability and this is well within her. She is a big horse and as a result has taken a bit of time to grow into herself but looks to have the world at her feet this season and is a horse going places for sure. Usually Venetia Williams doesn't have her string in dazzling form but this year she has been having winners left, right and centre. Toubeera to land today's race and use this as a stepping stone towards bigger and better things. (15/2)
4:05 Cheltenham - Flementime
Flementime looked a very promising horse in early 2012 but after a good sixth at Aintree in their big Mares bumper she injured her leg and has been given time off since. It is odd for anyone to be tipping a horse who hasn't seen the track for 582 days but connections are excited about this one and at home he works with Champion Court. Obviously he is one of Martin Keighley's best horses if not his best horse so for a bumper horse to already be considered that good is rare and must be noted. Flementime to go well in the bumper. (16/1)
NAP - Toubeera
Nb - Flementime
Good luck today guys and lets hope for another big winner this week!!
Friday, 8 November 2013
Reckless To Be The Wincanton Meister
First of all I have to apologise as there was no blog last week, the only excuse I can offer is that I got too caught up in the Breeders Cup action. Hopefully you still watched out Breeders Cup video and also our video covering last week's action, both of which returned winners. Today the racing comes from Doncaster who hold their annual November Handicap meeting and are the only track racing on the flat today. We also have national hunt action from Sandown, Kelso and Wincanton which stages the Badger Ales Trophy won last year by The Package.
Speaking of The Package, he was runner up to Restless D'artaix when AP McCoy made it to Three Thousand winners at Plumpton in 2009. This week he passed Four Thousand at Towcester when riding Mountain Tunes to victory in typical McCoy style. When turning from home he looked to hold little chance and he even touched 50/1 in running after a mistake at the 2nd last hurdle. Coming to the last he had just about got his mount staying on before jumping in to Panama Petrus, would that stop him? No, of course not. Mountain Tunes was galvanised and more importantly a more than willing partner which enable the duo to catch Kris Spin and Jamie Moore late on.
People have asked what an achievement like this means to me and to be truthful, I couldn't tell you. I am a 20 year old guy who as a passion for horse racing, but I have never known the sport when it hasn't been dominated by The Champ. For me personally, it is hard to think of the sport without one man being so far ahead of the others in the jockeys championship. It will show exactly how much he means to this sport on the day he retires and we realise how privileged we have been to see this man in action.
Before we start with the days selections I have to mention that we have prepared another video including some singing... You have to watch it to understand. Joining me today were the usual suspects Adam Webb (@adamwebb121) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). Watch the video through the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgxwckNt-x4
12:20 Wincanton - SGT Reckless
Mick Channon landed the Haldon Gold Cup this week with Somersby who we very much know everything about. SGT Reckless is at the other end of that scale in the sense that we dont know much about him as he makes his hurdling debut today. His career got off to a great start as he made two big impressions first at Wincanton and secondly at Lingfield, both in bumpers. He went to the Champion Bumper at the Festival with a leading chance and was sent off 8/1, in truth he probably wasn't bred to be a flat horse. Which brings us onto today and his hurdling debut, this discipline definitely makes more appeal for a horse like him and he could even make a nice chaser in time. There is nothing else I can really add to that other than the fact that he looks every yard a National Hunt horse and this looks a winnable race. (No Price Available Yet)
2:05 Wincanton - Far West
Paul Nicholls had the first two horses home in this race last year with Zarkandar and Prospect Wells fighting out a thrilling finish. Far West looks to hold the key to today's race as well and can land this for the 2nd year running for Team Ditcheat. Sam Twiston-Davies rides again for Paul Nicholls and over the past week he has an outstanding strike rate when teaming up with the ex Champion Trainer. This is also an exciting race for a number of reasons, mostly for me its exciting because of the fact that Our Conor's form will first be truly tested. Sametegal has already come out and won who was of course third in last year's Triumph Hurdle and 2 and quarter lengths behind Far West. A repeat of his Triumph Hurdle effort would hold him in fine regard for today and he handed out a 12 length beating of Handazan first time out last season. Far West to land the Elite Hurdle 2013. (3/1)
2:25 Doncaster - Jack Dexter
Jack Dexter is undoubtedly the class horse of the race and definitely brings the best form to the table after his 2nd to Slade Power on Champions Day. He must give away 6 pounds to everyone in the field except for Arnold Lane and he gets his preferred ground today which is a huge positive. The Ayr Gold Cup form should be turned around with Highland Colori and that remains a monumental effort to finish third from top weight on ground that probably was too fast for him. Ballesteros could be the biggest danger to him on his first outing for Richard Fahey and with Paul Hanagan on board, he wasn't at his best last time but can correct that. Jack Dexter to take all the beating today however. (7/2)
3:00 Doncaster - Miss Cap Estel
This is a really hard race to dissect but I have a strong fancy in this to some people's disbelief, not naming anybody on last nights video of course. At the start of the season as some of you may know I interviewed Kirsty Milczarek, she gave us all a horse to follow for the season. That horse was called Kikonga who has since gone on to be successful this year, one of the times was when beating Miss Cap Estel at Ascot. That was when she first caught my eye as she was the only one who made any sort of ground from the back of the field and was never nearer than at the finish. She then went to Goodwood twice, the first time was behind Wild Coco when she was thoroughly outclassed and the second time is best forgotten. She righted that wrong though when absolutely bolting up at Ffos Las before tailing off in a French listed race which can also be forgiven. Miss Cap Estel to go well at a price. (50/1)
3:15 Wincanton - Meister Eckhart
Meister Eckhart is one of my Novice Chasers to follow for the season and has been a horse that has impressed me for a couple of seasons now. I first noticed him when fifth for Rebecca Curtis behind the late Brindisi Breeze in the Albert Bartlett at the Festival a couple of seasons ago. Everything about him just screamed that he was a chaser and he has done nothing to put me off that since switching to Alan King's yard. On his belated reappearance last season he was runner up to Prospect Wells in the National Spirit Hurdle at Fonwell, before again finishing runner up at Cheltenham in the Coral Cup. He then went on to finish third at Aintree in another hot race with was a great effort as many Cheltenham horses struggle when going to Aintree in the same season. Alan King couldnt have found a much harder race to start him off over fences, despite it being a four runner race, all of these could be Grade One chasers. Meister Eckhart to start his chasing career off on the right foot and land today's race. (7/2)
NAP - Far West
Nb - SGT Reckless
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
Speaking of The Package, he was runner up to Restless D'artaix when AP McCoy made it to Three Thousand winners at Plumpton in 2009. This week he passed Four Thousand at Towcester when riding Mountain Tunes to victory in typical McCoy style. When turning from home he looked to hold little chance and he even touched 50/1 in running after a mistake at the 2nd last hurdle. Coming to the last he had just about got his mount staying on before jumping in to Panama Petrus, would that stop him? No, of course not. Mountain Tunes was galvanised and more importantly a more than willing partner which enable the duo to catch Kris Spin and Jamie Moore late on.
People have asked what an achievement like this means to me and to be truthful, I couldn't tell you. I am a 20 year old guy who as a passion for horse racing, but I have never known the sport when it hasn't been dominated by The Champ. For me personally, it is hard to think of the sport without one man being so far ahead of the others in the jockeys championship. It will show exactly how much he means to this sport on the day he retires and we realise how privileged we have been to see this man in action.
Before we start with the days selections I have to mention that we have prepared another video including some singing... You have to watch it to understand. Joining me today were the usual suspects Adam Webb (@adamwebb121) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). Watch the video through the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgxwckNt-x4
12:20 Wincanton - SGT Reckless
Mick Channon landed the Haldon Gold Cup this week with Somersby who we very much know everything about. SGT Reckless is at the other end of that scale in the sense that we dont know much about him as he makes his hurdling debut today. His career got off to a great start as he made two big impressions first at Wincanton and secondly at Lingfield, both in bumpers. He went to the Champion Bumper at the Festival with a leading chance and was sent off 8/1, in truth he probably wasn't bred to be a flat horse. Which brings us onto today and his hurdling debut, this discipline definitely makes more appeal for a horse like him and he could even make a nice chaser in time. There is nothing else I can really add to that other than the fact that he looks every yard a National Hunt horse and this looks a winnable race. (No Price Available Yet)
2:05 Wincanton - Far West
Paul Nicholls had the first two horses home in this race last year with Zarkandar and Prospect Wells fighting out a thrilling finish. Far West looks to hold the key to today's race as well and can land this for the 2nd year running for Team Ditcheat. Sam Twiston-Davies rides again for Paul Nicholls and over the past week he has an outstanding strike rate when teaming up with the ex Champion Trainer. This is also an exciting race for a number of reasons, mostly for me its exciting because of the fact that Our Conor's form will first be truly tested. Sametegal has already come out and won who was of course third in last year's Triumph Hurdle and 2 and quarter lengths behind Far West. A repeat of his Triumph Hurdle effort would hold him in fine regard for today and he handed out a 12 length beating of Handazan first time out last season. Far West to land the Elite Hurdle 2013. (3/1)
2:25 Doncaster - Jack Dexter
Jack Dexter is undoubtedly the class horse of the race and definitely brings the best form to the table after his 2nd to Slade Power on Champions Day. He must give away 6 pounds to everyone in the field except for Arnold Lane and he gets his preferred ground today which is a huge positive. The Ayr Gold Cup form should be turned around with Highland Colori and that remains a monumental effort to finish third from top weight on ground that probably was too fast for him. Ballesteros could be the biggest danger to him on his first outing for Richard Fahey and with Paul Hanagan on board, he wasn't at his best last time but can correct that. Jack Dexter to take all the beating today however. (7/2)
3:00 Doncaster - Miss Cap Estel
This is a really hard race to dissect but I have a strong fancy in this to some people's disbelief, not naming anybody on last nights video of course. At the start of the season as some of you may know I interviewed Kirsty Milczarek, she gave us all a horse to follow for the season. That horse was called Kikonga who has since gone on to be successful this year, one of the times was when beating Miss Cap Estel at Ascot. That was when she first caught my eye as she was the only one who made any sort of ground from the back of the field and was never nearer than at the finish. She then went to Goodwood twice, the first time was behind Wild Coco when she was thoroughly outclassed and the second time is best forgotten. She righted that wrong though when absolutely bolting up at Ffos Las before tailing off in a French listed race which can also be forgiven. Miss Cap Estel to go well at a price. (50/1)
3:15 Wincanton - Meister Eckhart
Meister Eckhart is one of my Novice Chasers to follow for the season and has been a horse that has impressed me for a couple of seasons now. I first noticed him when fifth for Rebecca Curtis behind the late Brindisi Breeze in the Albert Bartlett at the Festival a couple of seasons ago. Everything about him just screamed that he was a chaser and he has done nothing to put me off that since switching to Alan King's yard. On his belated reappearance last season he was runner up to Prospect Wells in the National Spirit Hurdle at Fonwell, before again finishing runner up at Cheltenham in the Coral Cup. He then went on to finish third at Aintree in another hot race with was a great effort as many Cheltenham horses struggle when going to Aintree in the same season. Alan King couldnt have found a much harder race to start him off over fences, despite it being a four runner race, all of these could be Grade One chasers. Meister Eckhart to start his chasing career off on the right foot and land today's race. (7/2)
NAP - Far West
Nb - SGT Reckless
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
Friday, 25 October 2013
Ballesteros To Get His Hole In One
Good Morning everyone and congratulations for making it through another work week, your reward? A huge weekend of racing of course! The big meeting today comes to us from Doncaster as they stage their yearly Racing Post Trophy won last year by Kingsbarns. We have jumps action from Chepstow, Aintree, Stratford and over in Ireland they race over the sticks at Wexford. As well as Doncaster on the flat we have strong cards from Newbury Leopardstown an evening meeting from Wolverhampton on the polytrack.
As always we have prepared a video for you covering all the races on Channel 4 today including some insight into some runners today. I was joined by Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121) as always and Calum Madell (@Calummadell) who gave us insight into his runner tomorrow at Stratford, Magnifique Etoile. We were also joined by amateur jockey George Gorman (@GeorgeFGorman) who is based with Gary Moore. He gave us the inside scoop on how Sire De Grugy and Fruity O'Rooney are doing at home ahead of their run this afternoon. You can watch the video by clicking on the link below.
I hope you enjoy! But onto today's selections.
2:40 Doncaster - Ennistown
Since joining Charlie Appleby Ennistown is unbeaten in two outings and since having a hood applied he has been defeated just once in 4 attempts. He takes the step back up in trip today after previously being successful over 1 mile and 3 furlongs he tackles an extra furlong here, that is a positive. Possibly the biggest positive today is the 3 year old allowance, instead of his official rating of 100 he is allowed to run off 93. This time of year is fantastic to catch 3 year olds as they are beginning to mature and the older horses don't have so much of an advantage. The last positive towards Ennistown is that he hails from a stable bang in form, from the last 14 runners Charlie Appleby has had no representative placed worse than 5th. In that purple patch he has had winners priced 8/11, 14/1, 20/1 and 8/1 and as you can imagine the profit to a pound stake is high. (6/1)
2:55 Newbury - Nichols Canyon
This is a tough race to assess but Nichols Canyon impressed me when victorious last time out at Ascot on testing ground. He beat Greatwood by 2 lengths that day who was in turn 2 lengths clear of the rest of the field. The biggest positive for any horse running today is that they can go on soft ground which is something that definitely applies for Nichols Canyon today. He is unbeaten on the surface and this race looks undecidingly weak for the class of it. Nichols Canyon to land the spoils in today's conditions. (7/2)
3:05 Aintree - Astracad
Unfortunately Astracad is pricewise today but for good reason as he hails from a Twiston-Davies team that are bang in form as always this time of year. At Cheltenham last time he was travelling as well as anything before being held in by eventual winner John's Spirit. By the time Astracad finally got going he was already 3 lengths down on the winner and all hopes of winning had gone bar an accident. He was looking good for a place but made a mistake at the last scuppering all chances of a place but still stayed on very well for 5th. Astracad to land the Old Roan. (7/1)
3:15 Doncaster - Ballesteros
Ballesteros is a soft ground specialist and probably brings the best form in the race to the table from his four runs this season. The latter two are the races of interest and more importantly on soft ground behind the top class Maarek. First of all he was beaten 2 lengths at Newbury when showing his first form of the season and then went on to the Abbaye once again behind Maarek. He was 9th that day and takes the drop back into handicap company today which can only be a positive as its his easiest race of the season. Ballesteros himself is in great form but the stable has been without a winner since the 4th of this month, however they have had some useful efforts since. Ballesteros to land his race for the season. (14/1)
NAP - Ballesteros
Nb - Ennistown
Good luck if you have a bet today and as always, Happy Punting.
Friday, 18 October 2013
Qipco Champions Day 2013
Good Morning everyone a happy weekend to you all and more importantly a happy Champions Day to you all. After today the flat season begins to wind down and go into hibernation but they have one last hurrah on these shores, and what a hurrah it is. Today brings together most of the top class horses who have helped make this season from 3 year olds like Dawn Approach to Royal runners like Estimate. Every horse running today has provided something this year and they will all be fighting it out to end the season, and in some cases their careers with a win.
As always we have prepared a video for you covering champions day and we also threw in Cheltenham for good measure and managed to have a good laugh throughout. Joining me today is @Adamwebb121 @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours or as they are more affectionately known, Adam, Calum and Michael. You can watch our preview by clicking on the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-ydrVklvPY&feature=youtu.be
Enjoy! But now we go on with our selections!!
1:45 Ascot - Ahzeemah
They say to back anything that you dream about which is exactly what I'm doing here with Ahzeemah. Last Tuesday I dreamt he won this race beating Caucus by two lengths, but I do fancy him and it isn't just sentimental. Ahzeemah has been ultra consistent this season and firstly is great each way value as the ground wont bother him after a run at Doncaster on Heavy last year. He hasn't finished outside of the first two on any of his last eleven outings and has won four times during that period. Ahzeemah to land the spoils in testing ground. (8/1)
2:00 Cheltenham - Creepy
Martin Keighley looks to hold the key to this one with Creepy who wasn't disgraced at a high enough level last year on a few occasions. The peak of his novice race season came in November on softer ground when fourth behind the progressive Coneygree here at Cheltenham. He then went better than that when runner up in a big handicap hurdle again at Cheltenham behind Party Rock over two and a half miles. On reappearance this year he finally got his head in front at Chepstow when beating Splash of Ginge by two and a quarter lengths comfortably. The in form Martin Keighley yard to land the opener. (4/1)
2:20 Ascot - Jack Dexter
Finally the ground has come for Jim Goldie's star as he looks to make it back to back wins on Champions Day after landing the apprentice race last season. He ran a huge race to finish third in the Ayr Gold Cup under top weight off the back of almost a three month lay off which holds him in fine regard here. He has encountered ground worse than Good to soft six times and the result has been the same each time, a win for Jack Dexter. Tomorrow the ground is already soft with more rain forecast. Jack Dexter to win once again on testing ground and at Champions Day. Just a side note, don't get too worried if he sweats at the start, he has been known to do this. (9/2)
3:45 Cheltenham - Sire Collonges
Ex Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls had a double at Cheltenham yesterday and looks to have a few good chances with Sire Collnges being a leading hope. First time out could be a could time to catch him and this race looks ideal with Will Biddick taking five pounds off his back. The trip looks to be near perfect and although not setting the world on fire last year he definitely looked one to keep on the right side of. For last season's exploits he picked up a rating of 145 but if you go through his opponents you can pick holes in each of them. Sire Collonges to land the spoils for Paul Nicholls. (14/1)
4:05 Ascot - Mukhadram
William Haggas' Colt has been unlucky this year, he bumped into Al Kazeem at Royal Ascot when just getting edged out late on. He then ran in the Eclipse and was unlucky to not be in the first two when getting hampered late on and passed by Declaration of War. He finally got his day in the sun last time at York when landing a Group 2 and beating Grandeur, who I am convinced is a Group 1 horse in the process. Paul Hanagan takes the ride and the two of them combined with front running tactics make for an irresistible combination. Im convinced we haven't seen the best of Mukhadram yet and today he can show us what he is truly made of. (12/1)
4:25 Cheltenham - Court In Session
Martin Keighley is responsible for one of our selections earlier on with Creepy and he can round off a double here courtesy of Court in Session. He had surgery over the summer which meant he has just taken a few runs to get back to full health but he has been aimed here. The form book will say his last run ended in a fourth placed finish which technically is correct but physically is wrong. You may recall at Chepstow last week there was a Legends race, you may also recall that he was the winner of it so he is clearly in good heart. If tuned up 100% he will have a massive chance today and justify the early market support. (16/1)
NAP - Mukhadram
Nb - Jack Dexter
Good Luck today and as always, Happy Punting!
As always we have prepared a video for you covering champions day and we also threw in Cheltenham for good measure and managed to have a good laugh throughout. Joining me today is @Adamwebb121 @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours or as they are more affectionately known, Adam, Calum and Michael. You can watch our preview by clicking on the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-ydrVklvPY&feature=youtu.be
Enjoy! But now we go on with our selections!!
1:45 Ascot - Ahzeemah
They say to back anything that you dream about which is exactly what I'm doing here with Ahzeemah. Last Tuesday I dreamt he won this race beating Caucus by two lengths, but I do fancy him and it isn't just sentimental. Ahzeemah has been ultra consistent this season and firstly is great each way value as the ground wont bother him after a run at Doncaster on Heavy last year. He hasn't finished outside of the first two on any of his last eleven outings and has won four times during that period. Ahzeemah to land the spoils in testing ground. (8/1)
2:00 Cheltenham - Creepy
Martin Keighley looks to hold the key to this one with Creepy who wasn't disgraced at a high enough level last year on a few occasions. The peak of his novice race season came in November on softer ground when fourth behind the progressive Coneygree here at Cheltenham. He then went better than that when runner up in a big handicap hurdle again at Cheltenham behind Party Rock over two and a half miles. On reappearance this year he finally got his head in front at Chepstow when beating Splash of Ginge by two and a quarter lengths comfortably. The in form Martin Keighley yard to land the opener. (4/1)
2:20 Ascot - Jack Dexter
Finally the ground has come for Jim Goldie's star as he looks to make it back to back wins on Champions Day after landing the apprentice race last season. He ran a huge race to finish third in the Ayr Gold Cup under top weight off the back of almost a three month lay off which holds him in fine regard here. He has encountered ground worse than Good to soft six times and the result has been the same each time, a win for Jack Dexter. Tomorrow the ground is already soft with more rain forecast. Jack Dexter to win once again on testing ground and at Champions Day. Just a side note, don't get too worried if he sweats at the start, he has been known to do this. (9/2)
3:45 Cheltenham - Sire Collonges
Ex Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls had a double at Cheltenham yesterday and looks to have a few good chances with Sire Collnges being a leading hope. First time out could be a could time to catch him and this race looks ideal with Will Biddick taking five pounds off his back. The trip looks to be near perfect and although not setting the world on fire last year he definitely looked one to keep on the right side of. For last season's exploits he picked up a rating of 145 but if you go through his opponents you can pick holes in each of them. Sire Collonges to land the spoils for Paul Nicholls. (14/1)
4:05 Ascot - Mukhadram
William Haggas' Colt has been unlucky this year, he bumped into Al Kazeem at Royal Ascot when just getting edged out late on. He then ran in the Eclipse and was unlucky to not be in the first two when getting hampered late on and passed by Declaration of War. He finally got his day in the sun last time at York when landing a Group 2 and beating Grandeur, who I am convinced is a Group 1 horse in the process. Paul Hanagan takes the ride and the two of them combined with front running tactics make for an irresistible combination. Im convinced we haven't seen the best of Mukhadram yet and today he can show us what he is truly made of. (12/1)
4:25 Cheltenham - Court In Session
Martin Keighley is responsible for one of our selections earlier on with Creepy and he can round off a double here courtesy of Court in Session. He had surgery over the summer which meant he has just taken a few runs to get back to full health but he has been aimed here. The form book will say his last run ended in a fourth placed finish which technically is correct but physically is wrong. You may recall at Chepstow last week there was a Legends race, you may also recall that he was the winner of it so he is clearly in good heart. If tuned up 100% he will have a massive chance today and justify the early market support. (16/1)
NAP - Mukhadram
Nb - Jack Dexter
Good Luck today and as always, Happy Punting!
Friday, 11 October 2013
Cesarewitch Day
Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen, I have to start off with an apology for the lack of a blog the last two weeks, this is down to the fact that I was in Canada. My brother got married and I was best man, social protocol said I had to be there apparently... It came as a shock to me too. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive... No? How about if we find some winners together? Well alright then, that is more like it. As always we have produced a video for you covering this weeks Channel 4 races, joining me this week is @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. The link shall be left below!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnGSpV0_wB8&feature=youtu.be
My brother who was the Groom in mention regarding the whole wedding thing has also given us a tip for the day, please bare in mind he knows little about racing and lives abroad!!
5:45 Chepstow - Ace High (11/1)
But now onto this week's selections and hopefully a successful return to blogging with some winners from strong fancies.
3:10 Newmarket - Outstrip
If you are a regular reader you will know how highly I regard Outstrip after previous efforts. He has tasted defeat just once in his three outings and that was to the highly touted Toormore who looks a potential world beater. Last time out was without doubt his best performance when sweeping aside The Grey Gatsby who is a fair yard stick in his own right. Mickael Barzalona takes the ride today which is a huge positive at Newmarket, nobody rides the track better than him, especially on a horse like this. For those who like form lines he also has the clear beating of War Command as he was behind Sudirman who went on to be comfortably beaten by none other than Toormore. If you take that literally the prices are grossly wrong, but its foolish to take that literally. Outstrip to land the Dewhurst and War Command is the lay of the day. (15/8)
3:20 Hexham - Etxalar
Etxalar has been a useful horse for a long time and despite being a 10 year old really caught my eye last time out at Perth when being given a soft ride. Despite that he still managed to get involved and wasn't far behind Strobe who re-opposes on worse terms today. The only confidence in backing him today is that he looks well handicapped but the use of a claimer puts doubts in my mind as Peter Buchanan prefers another. If his jumping holds up then he will take some beating off this mark today. (6/1)
3:30 York - Doc Hay
Doc Hay was an eye catcher at Doncaster after meeting trouble and finishing strongly over 5 furlongs and was again an eye catcher at Beverley over the same trip. He then won when stepped up in trip to 6 furlongs which is his optimum trip and also today's trip under David Nolan who gets on well with him. I'm not too sure why he was then dropped back to the minimum distance but they look to right that wrong today. He still looks potentially well handicapped back at a trip that he will actually enjoy and could be a tad overpriced today in a competitive race. (12/1)
4:15 Chepstow - Balder Succes
Our last main selection of the day is also our NAP of the day on his Chasing Debut. Since his juvenile hurdling days I have been waiting for him to jump a fence as that looks his true calling judged on his scope and how he jumps a hurdle. This looks a nice introduction in a potentially weak race and I am shocked he isn't favourite ahead of Easter Day, but hey that is our gain. Robert Thornton is back from injury and takes the ride which is a positive regardless of what some people say about him... Cough Calum Madell... Cough. If Balder Succes doesn't get his Chasing career off to a winning start tomorrow I will be shocked to say the least. (15/8)
Others to consider:
2:20 York - Sam Sharp
3:50 Newmarket - Recession Proof
4:10 York - Supersta
4:55 Newmarket - Safety Check
5:10 York - Barren Brook
5:25 Newmarket - French Navy
6:10 Chepstow - Trillerin Minella
NAP - Balder Succes
Nb - Outstrip
Good luck if you are having a bet today guys!! Let me know how you get on!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnGSpV0_wB8&feature=youtu.be
My brother who was the Groom in mention regarding the whole wedding thing has also given us a tip for the day, please bare in mind he knows little about racing and lives abroad!!
5:45 Chepstow - Ace High (11/1)
But now onto this week's selections and hopefully a successful return to blogging with some winners from strong fancies.
3:10 Newmarket - Outstrip
If you are a regular reader you will know how highly I regard Outstrip after previous efforts. He has tasted defeat just once in his three outings and that was to the highly touted Toormore who looks a potential world beater. Last time out was without doubt his best performance when sweeping aside The Grey Gatsby who is a fair yard stick in his own right. Mickael Barzalona takes the ride today which is a huge positive at Newmarket, nobody rides the track better than him, especially on a horse like this. For those who like form lines he also has the clear beating of War Command as he was behind Sudirman who went on to be comfortably beaten by none other than Toormore. If you take that literally the prices are grossly wrong, but its foolish to take that literally. Outstrip to land the Dewhurst and War Command is the lay of the day. (15/8)
3:20 Hexham - Etxalar
Etxalar has been a useful horse for a long time and despite being a 10 year old really caught my eye last time out at Perth when being given a soft ride. Despite that he still managed to get involved and wasn't far behind Strobe who re-opposes on worse terms today. The only confidence in backing him today is that he looks well handicapped but the use of a claimer puts doubts in my mind as Peter Buchanan prefers another. If his jumping holds up then he will take some beating off this mark today. (6/1)
3:30 York - Doc Hay
Doc Hay was an eye catcher at Doncaster after meeting trouble and finishing strongly over 5 furlongs and was again an eye catcher at Beverley over the same trip. He then won when stepped up in trip to 6 furlongs which is his optimum trip and also today's trip under David Nolan who gets on well with him. I'm not too sure why he was then dropped back to the minimum distance but they look to right that wrong today. He still looks potentially well handicapped back at a trip that he will actually enjoy and could be a tad overpriced today in a competitive race. (12/1)
4:15 Chepstow - Balder Succes
Our last main selection of the day is also our NAP of the day on his Chasing Debut. Since his juvenile hurdling days I have been waiting for him to jump a fence as that looks his true calling judged on his scope and how he jumps a hurdle. This looks a nice introduction in a potentially weak race and I am shocked he isn't favourite ahead of Easter Day, but hey that is our gain. Robert Thornton is back from injury and takes the ride which is a positive regardless of what some people say about him... Cough Calum Madell... Cough. If Balder Succes doesn't get his Chasing career off to a winning start tomorrow I will be shocked to say the least. (15/8)
Others to consider:
2:20 York - Sam Sharp
3:50 Newmarket - Recession Proof
4:10 York - Supersta
4:55 Newmarket - Safety Check
5:10 York - Barren Brook
5:25 Newmarket - French Navy
6:10 Chepstow - Trillerin Minella
NAP - Balder Succes
Nb - Outstrip
Good luck if you are having a bet today guys!! Let me know how you get on!
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