Good Morning/Evening racing fans I hope we are rested up for another big weekend of racing as our clues for Cheltenham stack up and our fancies strengthen. The flagship meetings today come from Cheltenham and Doncaster who stage the Skybet Chase of 2013 for which Unioniste is a strong favourite at the time of writing. The other two meetings of the day come from Lingfield and Leopardstown with some strong races on the latter card.
As always we have prepared a video for you covering all of tomorrow's Channel 4 racing. Joining me this week are the regular's @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and a rare visit from @Mytentoryours!! You can also follow me on twitter at @Lukeelder13. Let us know your thoughts on tomorrow's racing and if you agree with us or not. Enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdNTRmbVjHs
Now onto today's selections!
12:25 Doncaster - Mcllhatton
Paul Nicholls has never hid the fact that he thinks a lot of Mcllhatton and he has shaped well on various occasions in his still young career. We last saw him on the back of a break at Kempton when being beaten by 23 lengths behind runaway winner Junction Fourteen off today's mark. He is dropped a furlong and a half today which looks to be in his favour after not quite staying the last twice but had won in Novice Company before. His only trip to Doncaster came over course and distance when third in a good race behind African Gold and Close Touch who have since gone on to better things. Mcllhatton to get our day off to a flying start. (9/1)
1:15 Cheltenham - The Italian Yob
Today promises to be a good day for Nick Williams and he has a leading chance here with The Italian Yob after scoring well at Sandown last time. He is a big stamp of a horse and always promised to make a better chaser than hurdler which he started to confirm last time out. His strongest form over fences is his 2nd to exciting novice Valdez, a race in which he had Ohio Gold 37 lengths behind him off the same terms as today. Today's ground will be absolutely no problem for him and a 7 pound rise from his Sandown victory looks on the lenient side. The Italian Yob to land the spoils with Annacotty as the biggest danger. (5/1)
1:50 Cheltenham - Double Ross
We keep the faith with Double Ross today after he has been profitable for us twice this season already resulting in a rise of 15 pounds. He took his tally over fences to 3 from 5 on New Years Day in absolutely bottomless ground over course and distance again. The writing was on the wall a long way out that day and despite tiring close to home he kept on well beating Cedre Bleu by 4 and a half lengths. He has been raised 8 pounds for his exertions which still may not be enough to stop him winning today as he is still an improving young chaser. Double Ross to land the Cheltenham hat-trick. (7/2)
2:15 Leopardstown - Djakadam
After our jumpers to follow video and his chasing debut, its only fair to put up Djakadam today as he steps up to 2 miles and 5 furlongs. He was thrown in at the deep end on chase debut when taking on the far more experienced Si C'etait Vrai and Minsk, but still had no problems brushing them aside. Back in fifth that day was Katnap who has since gone close behind the highly thought of Mount Colah but back to the selection. Not many horses had me too excited at the beginning of this season but Djakadam was definitely one of them after a promising juvenile hurdle season. Djakadam to land this on the way to bigger things and is an absolute steal of a price. (7/4)
2:50 Leopardstown - Make A Track
Make A Track is another that I have liked for a long time ever since his debut for David Arbuthnot at Sandown before being sold to Ireland. Since joining Charlie Swan's yard he has managed a fourth in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham and was fancied in the Thyestes earlier this week before being taken out. He put in a laboured effort last time in a four runner race at Thurles which can be forgiven as his best form is in bigger fields. Four of his six wins have come in double figure fields and the other two were in 5 and 7 horse fields. He is 9 pounds higher than when landing a competitive handicap at Limerick easily by 15 lengths with Castle Wings back in 2nd place and looks to have something in hand still. Make A Track to make his big price look foolish. (25/1)
NAP - Djakadam
Nb - Make A Track
As always happy punting!!
Friday, 24 January 2014
Friday, 17 January 2014
Land Seeks to Score at Lingfield
Good Morning/Evening Racing fans, I trust we are all rested for a big weekend of racing and to hopefully make a bit of money. Last week was a bit of a damp squib with none of the three runners doing too much, but we will hopefully leave that well behind today. They go to post today at Ascot who stage their yearly Sodexo Clarence House Chase (formerly known as the Victor Chandler) where Sire De Grugy is a warm order. They also race at Haydock who hold the Peter Marsh as well as three other Grade 2 events in which we see Ptit Zig take on Melodic Rendezvous. The supporting cards today come from Lingfield, Naas and Taunton if it passes a precautionary inspection at 7:30am.
As always we have a video prepared for you covering today's racing, joining me this week are a couple of the regulars in @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. Find the show in the link below and let us know your fancies either on twitter or in the comments section below. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR6lp3ie79g
Also before we start today's selections id like to ask of a favour from you all, which is rare for me! Late last year a good friend of mine lost his mother to MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Along with 3 other mentalists he is running the Brighton Marathon in April in honour of Helen Cook and to raise money for MS Research Treatment and Education. It would mean a lot to me and to Rob if you could sponsor them as Helen wasn't just a mother but a dear friend to... Well, everyone she ever met. If you have a winner today please have a think about sponsoring Rob, Jack, Tom and Matt. Thank you very much, lets raise some money!! Oh did I mention they are all running as Teletubbies!?
http://www.justgiving.com/
Once again, thank you very much for sponsoring if you do, if not then no worries :)
Now, onto today's selections!!
2:25 Ascot - Get Back In Line
We start today off with the Jonjo O'Neill trained Get Back In Line, who was running a big race in the Gerry Feilden on seasonal reappearance when unseating two out. He has only graced the racecourse with his presence three times but looked full of potential on the first two outings at Plumpton and Catterick. He started off in a strong Novice hurdle when second to his useful stable mate Mr Watson under today's jockey Maurice Linehan. He went one better next time out at Catterick when winning nicely over a longer trip beating King Of The Wolds by two and a half lengths. I would be surprised if he isn't off a winning mark today especially with a 5 pound claimer on board, who in my mind is the best claimers around at the moment. (5/1)
2:35 Lingfield - Seek The Fair Land
Lee Carter trains a course specialist here in Seek The Fair Land who seldom runs a poor race at Lingfield and proved that once more when 2nd over course and distance last time. He reopposes Valmina that day who beat him by three quarters of a length but he faces the selection on 3 pound worse terms today. Seek The Fair Land was raised 2 pounds for that effort after being forced wide round the home turn, when the winner got a dream split late on. In truth he would probably be best over 7 furlongs here but has more than enough pace to win over a furlong shorter, so expect him to be finishing fast and late. One last mention that the in form Louis Steward takes off a very valuable 7 pounds meaning he is running off 18 pounds lower than his last winning mark. Seek The Fair Land to find the Lingfield winners enclosure once more. (6/1)
3:15 Haydock - Katenko
Today would appear an all or bust task for Katenko in a sense that if he doesn't win today the Gold Cup dream for this year could be over. He made his seasonal reappearance in the Hennessy and was still travelling strongly when he fell at the 14th fence but jumped very well before that mistake. He then had an outing at Aintree just a week later and was disappointing to say the least in a race he would win if 100% fit. It is best to forget that run after a potentially well needed break to get his confidence back when jumping a fence. There is every chance that he is still of a fairly low mark as I still dont think we have seen the best of Katenko, but if he shows that today he will be very hard to stop. Katenko to win with the main danger being Vino Griego after an impressive Sandown display. (9/2)
3:50 Haydock - Wuff
First of all id like to say what an incredible name this horse has and I'm not barking mad to fancy it... Anybody get the pun? No? Ok we'll carry on then. He first caught my eye when second to Desoto County on his debut bumper run, he is the type of horse that isn't built for bumper races at all yet almost made all. Since then he has run over hurdles at Uttoxeter when beating the promising Allow Dallow with a fantastic battling display. Turning for home he looked beaten but then stamina kicked in to get up late in the race under today's jockey, Paddy Brennan who was in good form in the week. He looks the perfect horse to take to these fixed brush hurdles and a fast pace would be a huge positive. Wuff to take his tally to 2 from 2 over hurdles in Terrier like fashion... Ok fine ill stop now!! (No Price Yet)
4:15 Lingfield - Dutchartcollector
We round off today's blog with a Gary Moore runner at Lingfield in what could be a big day for the yard with Sire De Grugy and Vino Griego out. Dutchartcollector should be able to give him at least one winner in the last after last time losing his maiden tag at Kempton. There is no doubt in my mind that he is a better horse than a rating of 64 and over a further 2 furlongs than last time he should be too good for these. Throughout the whole race last time George Baker was pushing him along which was odd but after he showed enough speed for 6 furlongs previously. It could just be that he was winning when having an off day which could mean he is thrown in today. Dutchartcollector to follow up his win last time. (10/3)
NAP - Seek The Fair Land
Nb - Get Back In Line
Happy Punting as always, Good Luck!!
As always we have a video prepared for you covering today's racing, joining me this week are a couple of the regulars in @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. Find the show in the link below and let us know your fancies either on twitter or in the comments section below. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR6lp3ie79g
Also before we start today's selections id like to ask of a favour from you all, which is rare for me! Late last year a good friend of mine lost his mother to MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Along with 3 other mentalists he is running the Brighton Marathon in April in honour of Helen Cook and to raise money for MS Research Treatment and Education. It would mean a lot to me and to Rob if you could sponsor them as Helen wasn't just a mother but a dear friend to... Well, everyone she ever met. If you have a winner today please have a think about sponsoring Rob, Jack, Tom and Matt. Thank you very much, lets raise some money!! Oh did I mention they are all running as Teletubbies!?
http://www.justgiving.com/
Once again, thank you very much for sponsoring if you do, if not then no worries :)
Now, onto today's selections!!
2:25 Ascot - Get Back In Line
We start today off with the Jonjo O'Neill trained Get Back In Line, who was running a big race in the Gerry Feilden on seasonal reappearance when unseating two out. He has only graced the racecourse with his presence three times but looked full of potential on the first two outings at Plumpton and Catterick. He started off in a strong Novice hurdle when second to his useful stable mate Mr Watson under today's jockey Maurice Linehan. He went one better next time out at Catterick when winning nicely over a longer trip beating King Of The Wolds by two and a half lengths. I would be surprised if he isn't off a winning mark today especially with a 5 pound claimer on board, who in my mind is the best claimers around at the moment. (5/1)
2:35 Lingfield - Seek The Fair Land
Lee Carter trains a course specialist here in Seek The Fair Land who seldom runs a poor race at Lingfield and proved that once more when 2nd over course and distance last time. He reopposes Valmina that day who beat him by three quarters of a length but he faces the selection on 3 pound worse terms today. Seek The Fair Land was raised 2 pounds for that effort after being forced wide round the home turn, when the winner got a dream split late on. In truth he would probably be best over 7 furlongs here but has more than enough pace to win over a furlong shorter, so expect him to be finishing fast and late. One last mention that the in form Louis Steward takes off a very valuable 7 pounds meaning he is running off 18 pounds lower than his last winning mark. Seek The Fair Land to find the Lingfield winners enclosure once more. (6/1)
3:15 Haydock - Katenko
Today would appear an all or bust task for Katenko in a sense that if he doesn't win today the Gold Cup dream for this year could be over. He made his seasonal reappearance in the Hennessy and was still travelling strongly when he fell at the 14th fence but jumped very well before that mistake. He then had an outing at Aintree just a week later and was disappointing to say the least in a race he would win if 100% fit. It is best to forget that run after a potentially well needed break to get his confidence back when jumping a fence. There is every chance that he is still of a fairly low mark as I still dont think we have seen the best of Katenko, but if he shows that today he will be very hard to stop. Katenko to win with the main danger being Vino Griego after an impressive Sandown display. (9/2)
3:50 Haydock - Wuff
First of all id like to say what an incredible name this horse has and I'm not barking mad to fancy it... Anybody get the pun? No? Ok we'll carry on then. He first caught my eye when second to Desoto County on his debut bumper run, he is the type of horse that isn't built for bumper races at all yet almost made all. Since then he has run over hurdles at Uttoxeter when beating the promising Allow Dallow with a fantastic battling display. Turning for home he looked beaten but then stamina kicked in to get up late in the race under today's jockey, Paddy Brennan who was in good form in the week. He looks the perfect horse to take to these fixed brush hurdles and a fast pace would be a huge positive. Wuff to take his tally to 2 from 2 over hurdles in Terrier like fashion... Ok fine ill stop now!! (No Price Yet)
4:15 Lingfield - Dutchartcollector
We round off today's blog with a Gary Moore runner at Lingfield in what could be a big day for the yard with Sire De Grugy and Vino Griego out. Dutchartcollector should be able to give him at least one winner in the last after last time losing his maiden tag at Kempton. There is no doubt in my mind that he is a better horse than a rating of 64 and over a further 2 furlongs than last time he should be too good for these. Throughout the whole race last time George Baker was pushing him along which was odd but after he showed enough speed for 6 furlongs previously. It could just be that he was winning when having an off day which could mean he is thrown in today. Dutchartcollector to follow up his win last time. (10/3)
NAP - Seek The Fair Land
Nb - Get Back In Line
Happy Punting as always, Good Luck!!
Friday, 10 January 2014
Longsdon Holds The Quay to Warwick
Good Morning/Evening racing fans, I hope we are all rested and after last week's disappointment ready to get back with some top class racing. Obviously last weekend was a bit of a washout, but we still had two selections run at Newcastle but I think you'll agree the less said the better. As I write this all meetings are currently going ahead albeit in very testing conditions, but that is better than no racing at all of course.
They go to post today at Kempton, Warwick and Wetherby over jumps as well as action from Lingfield on the all weather. They also race at Punchestown over in Ireland where we will get another chance to see Vautour who is the favourite for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
As always we have a video prepared for you guys as we managed to overcome some technical difficulties, better late than never though, right? Joining me this week were the regulars who are more affectionately known as @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. You can also follow me on Twitter by searching for @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy our preview.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfsCYTJAU9I
Now onto the selections!!
12:10 Warwick - Flementime
Martin Keighley could have a good mare here with Flementime after she chased home the smart Legacy Gold at Uttoxeter last time off the back of a long layoff. Previously she won her first bumper in nice style before finishing 6th in the big mares bumper at the Aintree Grand National meeting. After that run she picked up an injury hence the reason why we didn't see her for 606 days but left a good impression albeit in a lower class. The step up in trip will help her cause markedly today and with a season aim of winning the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, she looks an exciting sort. Flementime to make up for lost time. (9/1)
2:50 Wetherby - Lord Protector
Last week we had Lord Protector as one of the days main fancies before the meeting got called off at Wincanton, but we persist this week. He left a big impression on me when winning at Sandown but faces an 11 pound rise for his troubles which I can't see as being too much of an issue. He is a very imposing type that will almost certainly improve for a fence as mentioned last week but off a mark of 121 could still do some damage over the smaller obstacles. Behind him at Sandown were two very likable types in Uhlan Bute and a horse that I hold in high regard called Reverb, with a break back to the fourth placed horse. This looks an easier race than his last outing and despite strong opposition from Shimla Dawn, preference is for Lord Protector. (7/2)
3:00 Warwick - Killala Quay
Killala Quay won on the same day as Lord Protector at Sandown when landing a similar event to this one albeit maybe a touch weaker. I clearly had placeitis that day as a horse that I really like called Beat That was back in second and would have arguably won if he didn't make a mess of the last. That is taking nothing away from Killala Quay who kept on in good fashion after looking beat two hurdles from home. Stamina is clearly one of his strong points and the softer ground today will undoubtedly help him on that front and Jason Maguire is riding out of his skin at present. Killala Quay to boost his Cheltenham credentials and burst a bubble or two in the process. (5/1)
NAP - Lord Protector
Nb - Killala Quay
As always happy punting!!
They go to post today at Kempton, Warwick and Wetherby over jumps as well as action from Lingfield on the all weather. They also race at Punchestown over in Ireland where we will get another chance to see Vautour who is the favourite for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
As always we have a video prepared for you guys as we managed to overcome some technical difficulties, better late than never though, right? Joining me this week were the regulars who are more affectionately known as @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. You can also follow me on Twitter by searching for @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy our preview.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfsCYTJAU9I
Now onto the selections!!
12:10 Warwick - Flementime
Martin Keighley could have a good mare here with Flementime after she chased home the smart Legacy Gold at Uttoxeter last time off the back of a long layoff. Previously she won her first bumper in nice style before finishing 6th in the big mares bumper at the Aintree Grand National meeting. After that run she picked up an injury hence the reason why we didn't see her for 606 days but left a good impression albeit in a lower class. The step up in trip will help her cause markedly today and with a season aim of winning the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, she looks an exciting sort. Flementime to make up for lost time. (9/1)
2:50 Wetherby - Lord Protector
Last week we had Lord Protector as one of the days main fancies before the meeting got called off at Wincanton, but we persist this week. He left a big impression on me when winning at Sandown but faces an 11 pound rise for his troubles which I can't see as being too much of an issue. He is a very imposing type that will almost certainly improve for a fence as mentioned last week but off a mark of 121 could still do some damage over the smaller obstacles. Behind him at Sandown were two very likable types in Uhlan Bute and a horse that I hold in high regard called Reverb, with a break back to the fourth placed horse. This looks an easier race than his last outing and despite strong opposition from Shimla Dawn, preference is for Lord Protector. (7/2)
3:00 Warwick - Killala Quay
Killala Quay won on the same day as Lord Protector at Sandown when landing a similar event to this one albeit maybe a touch weaker. I clearly had placeitis that day as a horse that I really like called Beat That was back in second and would have arguably won if he didn't make a mess of the last. That is taking nothing away from Killala Quay who kept on in good fashion after looking beat two hurdles from home. Stamina is clearly one of his strong points and the softer ground today will undoubtedly help him on that front and Jason Maguire is riding out of his skin at present. Killala Quay to boost his Cheltenham credentials and burst a bubble or two in the process. (5/1)
NAP - Lord Protector
Nb - Killala Quay
As always happy punting!!
Friday, 3 January 2014
Hobbs to be Lord of Wincanton
Good Morning and welcome to the first blog I have written in 2014, lets hope it's a lucky one for us all. Our New Year's Day blog was a tad disappointing in my eyes, but at least Double Ross got us out of trouble when landing his second NAP for us. Call me arrogant but i'm still not prepared to tip Oscar Whisky as a potential top chaser, time will tell I suppose.
Unfortunately Sandown has had to abandon today's meeting but the Tolworth Hurdle has been rescheduled for Kempton next week so it's not all bad news. Racing will hopefully go ahead at Wincanton but they must pass an inspection this morning however they remain hopeful. Two meetings that aren't under threat are Newcastle and Lingfield who stage an all weather meeting on Channel 4, they also race in Ireland at Cork.
As always we have a video prepared for you today as we preview all the Channel 4 races tomorrow and hopefully tip some winners. Joining me this week is @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours as we run through the races at Lingfield and Wincanton. Hope you enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzY1mSQ-e8Q
Now onto this week's selections!!
12:35 Newcastle - Dancing Art
Dancing Art looks the obvious selection in what looks a fairly weak race involving just four participants. He returned from just over a year off last time out and needed it badly but still ran creditably for a long way before being found out. That came over a six furlong further trip and it proved too much hence the drastic drop down to the extended two miles. This is a much weaker race today and you'd fancy if he has progressed at all from his reappearance that he will take some catching. It is also worth noting that the stable look to be in decent form and the two pound ease in the handicap wont hold him back. (2/1)
1:40 Newcastle - Etxalar
Lucinda Russell's representative was back to form last time when making all at Carlisle after being dropped to 3 miles having previously tackled further. His jumping won him the race that day and was absolutely faultless at all of the obstacles while staying on in determined fashion. He was raised 5 pounds for that win which is eye catching for me as he looked better value for the 5 length victory as it was never really in doubt. The only nagging doubt is the form of the yard as they haven't particularly been amongst the winners lately but have shown glimpses of a revival. Etxalar to run his rivals into the ground. (7/2)
2:05 Wincanton - Consigliere
Consigliere is somewhat a veteran these days but has shown some of his old sparkle on his last two starts, most notably last time out when sixth behind Lancetto at Ascot. That was over 2 miles and a furlong which these days is too sharp for the old boy, today's return to two miles and five furlongs will be much more to his liking. As a result of the poor efforts so far this season he has dropped down to a lowly 136 with Kieron Edgar's 7 pound claim on top of that. The ground today will be absolutely perfect for him as he loves getting his toe in and its very notable that early money is coming for him. Consigliere to roll back the years and gain his 2nd victory in this race. (11/4)
2:40 Wincanton - Lord Protector
I have spent most of the week debating whether Lord Protector will go to Sandown or come here instead, that decision was made for him with the other meeting being abandoned. He left a huge impression on me when winning nicely last time at Sandown beating Uhlan Bute and a horse I really like called Reverb. The ground wont be a problem for this big stamp of a horse and it could just be that he has taken a little bit of time to grow into himself. The big question mark today is whether he can contend with a hefty 11 pound rise from last time, personally I don't think we have brushed on his ability and it shouldn't be a problem. (6/1)
NAP - Consigliere
Nb - Lord Protector
As always happy punting and be lucky!
Unfortunately Sandown has had to abandon today's meeting but the Tolworth Hurdle has been rescheduled for Kempton next week so it's not all bad news. Racing will hopefully go ahead at Wincanton but they must pass an inspection this morning however they remain hopeful. Two meetings that aren't under threat are Newcastle and Lingfield who stage an all weather meeting on Channel 4, they also race in Ireland at Cork.
As always we have a video prepared for you today as we preview all the Channel 4 races tomorrow and hopefully tip some winners. Joining me this week is @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours as we run through the races at Lingfield and Wincanton. Hope you enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzY1mSQ-e8Q
Now onto this week's selections!!
12:35 Newcastle - Dancing Art
Dancing Art looks the obvious selection in what looks a fairly weak race involving just four participants. He returned from just over a year off last time out and needed it badly but still ran creditably for a long way before being found out. That came over a six furlong further trip and it proved too much hence the drastic drop down to the extended two miles. This is a much weaker race today and you'd fancy if he has progressed at all from his reappearance that he will take some catching. It is also worth noting that the stable look to be in decent form and the two pound ease in the handicap wont hold him back. (2/1)
1:40 Newcastle - Etxalar
Lucinda Russell's representative was back to form last time when making all at Carlisle after being dropped to 3 miles having previously tackled further. His jumping won him the race that day and was absolutely faultless at all of the obstacles while staying on in determined fashion. He was raised 5 pounds for that win which is eye catching for me as he looked better value for the 5 length victory as it was never really in doubt. The only nagging doubt is the form of the yard as they haven't particularly been amongst the winners lately but have shown glimpses of a revival. Etxalar to run his rivals into the ground. (7/2)
2:05 Wincanton - Consigliere
Consigliere is somewhat a veteran these days but has shown some of his old sparkle on his last two starts, most notably last time out when sixth behind Lancetto at Ascot. That was over 2 miles and a furlong which these days is too sharp for the old boy, today's return to two miles and five furlongs will be much more to his liking. As a result of the poor efforts so far this season he has dropped down to a lowly 136 with Kieron Edgar's 7 pound claim on top of that. The ground today will be absolutely perfect for him as he loves getting his toe in and its very notable that early money is coming for him. Consigliere to roll back the years and gain his 2nd victory in this race. (11/4)
2:40 Wincanton - Lord Protector
I have spent most of the week debating whether Lord Protector will go to Sandown or come here instead, that decision was made for him with the other meeting being abandoned. He left a huge impression on me when winning nicely last time at Sandown beating Uhlan Bute and a horse I really like called Reverb. The ground wont be a problem for this big stamp of a horse and it could just be that he has taken a little bit of time to grow into himself. The big question mark today is whether he can contend with a hefty 11 pound rise from last time, personally I don't think we have brushed on his ability and it shouldn't be a problem. (6/1)
NAP - Consigliere
Nb - Lord Protector
As always happy punting and be lucky!
Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Taquin Double on New Years Day
Happy New Year to you all!! I shall keep today's intro very short as I am in need of some food and then to see in 2014 in style. Good luck to you all and more importantly please stay safe whatever you are doing tonight.
Happy New Year!
Folsom Blue was one of my ante post selections for Cheltenham a few years ago over hurdles before he got injured just weeks before the race. He was rated 142 over the smaller obstacles and gets the soft ground that he relishes after a more than promising chase debut at Navan behind Sizing Gold. In the capable hands of Davy Russell he could do no better than fourth, beaten 30 and a half lengths behind the winner which usually wouldn't be much to write home about. That run was off the back of almost a year out of action and naturally he will strip much fitter today so should be able to make his presence felt in a weaker contest. (No Price Yet)
1:20 Cheltenham - Taquin Du Seuil
A poor turn out for this years Dipper with just the four turning up which is disappointing but it isn't short on class. I will say the same thing I have said all season that Oscar Whisky is not a chaser and in my eyes never will be but did beat Wonderful Charm last time in receipt of weight. The top two in the market have already clashed once over fences in which the selection came out on top, but that was over 2 miles and a farce of a race. However I do fully expect Taquin Du Seuil to confirm that form today over the longer trip of 2 miles and 5 furlongs after being outpaced at Sandown last time. To me Oscar Whisky looks a false favourite and Taquin Du Seuil is an absolute gift of a price. (6/4)
2:30 Cheltenham - Double Ross
It was a few weeks ago when Double Ross was a winning NAP on this blog but unfortunately we wont be getting anywhere near 11/1 today. To me he was very impressive last time out with a brilliant turn of foot on the home turn to take the lead two out to score by 2 lengths to Cantlow back in 2nd. To my mind he was much better value than two lengths after idling in front and it would be no surprise to see Sam Twiston-Davies be a bit more patient today. That was a very competitive and very strong Cheltenham handicap last time and this once again looks much weaker but he has a 7 pound rise to deal with. One thing I will say it that any rain that falls is in his favour after last time the ground was possibly on the fast side for him. Double Ross to land a Cheltenham Double. (2/1)
3:40 Cheltenham - Coyaba
Annacotty won on the blog for the same connections last week in the Feltham at Kempton and Coyaba can add to that today. He was mightily impressive on debut at Ffos Las in testing ground when quickening off a slow pace to score decisively by 7 lengths and easily so. Next up was Towcester when he was arguably even more impressive under a penalty in the usual testing ground, winning by 4 and a half lengths. From that run we can take that the Cheltenham hill will pose no problems and if successful today the Festival will be the next port of call. Coyaba to make it a perfect 3 from 3 and good luck to all involved with the horse (Apologies there were no jokes this week Hannah!). (7/2)
NAP - Double Ross
Nb - Taquin Du Seuil
Friday, 27 December 2013
Moore At The Double
Good Morning racing fans, I hope your waistline is at least two sizes bigger after Christmas and the New Year's resolution of 'Go to the Gym more' is being prepared. Boxing Day was a good one for us after nailing the 20/1 winner of the Feltham in Annacotty, judging by Twitter a few of you backed it which is great. Big congratulations have to go to Martin Keighley, Ian Popham and owner Liz Prowting who all saddled their first Grade One winner in the process. Also a big well done should go to the Managing Director for Mrs Prowting, Hannah Bishop for originally buying the horse. She also read this blog last week and informed me she will definitely come back again, so 'HI HANNAH!!'. One final thing, good luck to the same connections with Faultless Feelings today at Newbury, now enough of the sucking up and onto the racing today.
They go to post this afternoon at Newbury as they hold the Challow Hurdle won last year by Taquin Du Seuil who went on to run in the Neptune. Also racing today is Chepstow as 20 horses step up to the challenge in the Welsh National which was won by the exciting Monbeg Dude last year. The only other English National Hunt meeting is at Catterick but they race on the polytrack at Lingfield as well. Perhaps the pick of all the meetings today is at Leopardstown which last season provided one of the races of the year in the Lexus. Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth takes the trip over and looks to put behind a recent flop at Haydock behind him. Limerick also hold a jumps card.
As always we have prepared a video for you previewing the Channel 4 races. Joining me this week we have Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and jockey George Gorman (@GeorgeFGorman) who rode his first winner under rules on boxing day. Watch the video by clicking the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p04mZGgIKNM
Now onto the action today!
12:45 Newbury - De Blacksmith
In our video George put this one up as his NAP of the day which I seriously considered doing, but we will let him have his moment of glory. He ended last season by hitting the deck twice over hurdles but has since got back on track this season now that he is over fences. His chasing career got off to a good start when runner up behind the exciting Uxizandre at Plumpton but has since disappointed on testing ground at Lingfield. It is best putting a line through that run as he was beaten way too far out and some problems came to light which will have been corrected. De Blacksmith to carry on the good form of Gary Moore. (9/1)
1:30 Chepstow - Lamps
I like this one for a few reasons and one of them is because I am a big Chelsea fan (here comes the hate on Twitter) but there are stronger reasons. We will start with his love of the soft ground that he will encounter today, on soft ground or worse he has won twice and placed a further 6 times so he has earned the title 'Mudlark'. The equally important factor today is that he goes well fresh winning twice first time out in his still short career but there is plenty more improvement to come this season, after all he is only a 6 year old. Any money for him will be a big positive as well, Lamps to find the back of the net... Please forgive me for that one!! (12/1)
2:00 Chepstow - Violet Dancer
This is the second selection of the day from Gary Moore's yard and also the NAP of the day for me. He left a huge impression on me at Sandown when winning last time and remaining unbeaten over hurdles. On his hurdles bow he handed out a 10 pound beating to the well regarded Aldopicgros on very soft ground before winning a very strong race at Sandown as previously mentioned. He wasn't the best over the 2nd last that time but picked himself up to jump the last really well and ended it all by going away from Sleepy Haven up the hill. He is a very strong bet and looks destined for great things down the line. (4/1)
2:20 Leopardstown - Djakadam
This is one horse I am genuinely excited about seeing this afternoon and have been excited about all season after a few eye catching efforts last year. He gets a lot of weight from the older horses today as for the next few days he is still a four year old, 11 pounds is a lot of weight to get though. On his last run last season he was just over 11 lengths behind Diakali who has since won a big Grade One hurdle in France, but anything he did over hurdles was just a bonus. Once you see him you will realise just why I fancy him to make a top chaser and from the Willie Mullins yard he could be absolutely anything. Djakadam to land his first chase at the first time of asking. (2/1)
2:35 Chepstow - Merry King
Last weekend Houblon Des Obeaux was put up as a selection on this blog after staying on very takingly in the Hennessy late on to grab 6th. Merry King was staying on with him and finished just ahead of him in 5th and was flying late in the race which would signify the step up in trip will be no problem. He has always been a horse that needs a trip and this will be the furthest he has run over so far in his career and the ground should pose no problems at all. Thanks to Tidal Bay keeping the majority of the other horses out of the handicap, Merry King is allowed to run off a very low weight of 10-3 which is very appealing in this race for sure. Merry King to land the Welsh National of 2013. (10/1)
NAP - Violet Dancer
Nb - Djakadam
As always Happy Punting guys!
They go to post this afternoon at Newbury as they hold the Challow Hurdle won last year by Taquin Du Seuil who went on to run in the Neptune. Also racing today is Chepstow as 20 horses step up to the challenge in the Welsh National which was won by the exciting Monbeg Dude last year. The only other English National Hunt meeting is at Catterick but they race on the polytrack at Lingfield as well. Perhaps the pick of all the meetings today is at Leopardstown which last season provided one of the races of the year in the Lexus. Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth takes the trip over and looks to put behind a recent flop at Haydock behind him. Limerick also hold a jumps card.
As always we have prepared a video for you previewing the Channel 4 races. Joining me this week we have Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and jockey George Gorman (@GeorgeFGorman) who rode his first winner under rules on boxing day. Watch the video by clicking the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p04mZGgIKNM
Now onto the action today!
12:45 Newbury - De Blacksmith
In our video George put this one up as his NAP of the day which I seriously considered doing, but we will let him have his moment of glory. He ended last season by hitting the deck twice over hurdles but has since got back on track this season now that he is over fences. His chasing career got off to a good start when runner up behind the exciting Uxizandre at Plumpton but has since disappointed on testing ground at Lingfield. It is best putting a line through that run as he was beaten way too far out and some problems came to light which will have been corrected. De Blacksmith to carry on the good form of Gary Moore. (9/1)
1:30 Chepstow - Lamps
I like this one for a few reasons and one of them is because I am a big Chelsea fan (here comes the hate on Twitter) but there are stronger reasons. We will start with his love of the soft ground that he will encounter today, on soft ground or worse he has won twice and placed a further 6 times so he has earned the title 'Mudlark'. The equally important factor today is that he goes well fresh winning twice first time out in his still short career but there is plenty more improvement to come this season, after all he is only a 6 year old. Any money for him will be a big positive as well, Lamps to find the back of the net... Please forgive me for that one!! (12/1)
2:00 Chepstow - Violet Dancer
This is the second selection of the day from Gary Moore's yard and also the NAP of the day for me. He left a huge impression on me at Sandown when winning last time and remaining unbeaten over hurdles. On his hurdles bow he handed out a 10 pound beating to the well regarded Aldopicgros on very soft ground before winning a very strong race at Sandown as previously mentioned. He wasn't the best over the 2nd last that time but picked himself up to jump the last really well and ended it all by going away from Sleepy Haven up the hill. He is a very strong bet and looks destined for great things down the line. (4/1)
2:20 Leopardstown - Djakadam
This is one horse I am genuinely excited about seeing this afternoon and have been excited about all season after a few eye catching efforts last year. He gets a lot of weight from the older horses today as for the next few days he is still a four year old, 11 pounds is a lot of weight to get though. On his last run last season he was just over 11 lengths behind Diakali who has since won a big Grade One hurdle in France, but anything he did over hurdles was just a bonus. Once you see him you will realise just why I fancy him to make a top chaser and from the Willie Mullins yard he could be absolutely anything. Djakadam to land his first chase at the first time of asking. (2/1)
2:35 Chepstow - Merry King
Last weekend Houblon Des Obeaux was put up as a selection on this blog after staying on very takingly in the Hennessy late on to grab 6th. Merry King was staying on with him and finished just ahead of him in 5th and was flying late in the race which would signify the step up in trip will be no problem. He has always been a horse that needs a trip and this will be the furthest he has run over so far in his career and the ground should pose no problems at all. Thanks to Tidal Bay keeping the majority of the other horses out of the handicap, Merry King is allowed to run off a very low weight of 10-3 which is very appealing in this race for sure. Merry King to land the Welsh National of 2013. (10/1)
NAP - Violet Dancer
Nb - Djakadam
As always Happy Punting guys!
Wednesday, 25 December 2013
Al Ferof To Be Kempton King
Merry Christmas to you all, I hope everyone had a wonderful day yesterday and ate enough Turkey to last a lifetime, but we are back to normality today. There is a total of 11 meetings today and that is with Huntingdon and Ffos Las already abandoning their cards due to waterlogging. The main meeting of course is from Kempton as they stage two Grade One's in the King George and the Christmas Hurdle that involves My Tent Or Yours and The New One.
We shall keep the intro fairly short today as we have plenty of racing to get stuck into, but before that I have to plug our video for today. We went through the Kempton card as well as covering the Rowland Meyrick at Wetherby providing analysis of the races and giving our tips, as well as having a laugh along the way of course. Joining me this week were Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrew (@Mytentoryours). You can also follow me on Twitter at @Lukeelder13, watch the video by clicking the link below, enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjHsPkxso-4
Now lets get down to business.
12:50 Kempton - Vaniteux
Nicky Henderson's Gelding made a lasting impression first time out in England when winning a hot Novice Hurdle at Sandown, beating Vibrato Valtat and Champagne At Tara in the process. It looked to be a tight run thing coming to the last but found an extra gear on the run in to win cosily and in very good style. There isn't much else to add on that front but one of the main dangers could be Fascino Rustico who may have needed that last run when well beat at Newbury. Vaniteux is taken to make it two from two here however. (7/2)
1:25 Kempton - Urbain De Sivola
Urbain De Sivola is making his chase debut today after running a blinder at Sandown when backed off the boards last time out. That was over 2 miles which looked a bit on the sharp side but he did look as if a switch to fences would be a benefit with the way he jumped. One of the interesting things about Urbain De Sivola is that he had a breathing operation before this season which looks to have bought around some improvement. Urbain De Sivola to make a winning chasing debut. (7/2)
2:00 Kempton - Annacotty
A few of you may scoff at this selection as he is the rank outsider of the field and his overall form so far isn't up to this standard, but he is better than that for sure. Connections try blinkers for the first time which looks an interesting move after a couple of below par efforts but he bounced right back at Chepstow last time. There is no way around it, this year's Feltham is a poor one by its usual standards and Just A Par is a worthy favourite, but I have serious doubts about him acting round Kempton. The selection is a course and distance winner however and is the only front runner in the field which is a huge positive as he is a 10 pound better horse when leading. Annacotty to run his rivals into the ground. (20/1)
3:10 Kempton - Al Ferof
In our jumps preview video I put up Al Ferof as the best bet of the season in this race so I'm happy he is here for starters. This race looks tailor made for Al Ferof and the only negative I can find is that he hasn't ran over 3 miles yet so is an unconfirmed stayer. I would have no doubts on that front and he will be racefit after an easy match at Ascot where he justified very short odds. There is no lack of pace here with horses such as Champion Court and Cue Card in the field so he will have a strong pace to aim at for sure. Al Ferof to take this race and continue is progression through the ranks and land the King George. (antepost 16/1)
NAP - Urbain De Sivola
Nb - Vaniteux
Good luck and as always, happy punting
We shall keep the intro fairly short today as we have plenty of racing to get stuck into, but before that I have to plug our video for today. We went through the Kempton card as well as covering the Rowland Meyrick at Wetherby providing analysis of the races and giving our tips, as well as having a laugh along the way of course. Joining me this week were Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrew (@Mytentoryours). You can also follow me on Twitter at @Lukeelder13, watch the video by clicking the link below, enjoy!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjHsPkxso-4
Now lets get down to business.
12:50 Kempton - Vaniteux
Nicky Henderson's Gelding made a lasting impression first time out in England when winning a hot Novice Hurdle at Sandown, beating Vibrato Valtat and Champagne At Tara in the process. It looked to be a tight run thing coming to the last but found an extra gear on the run in to win cosily and in very good style. There isn't much else to add on that front but one of the main dangers could be Fascino Rustico who may have needed that last run when well beat at Newbury. Vaniteux is taken to make it two from two here however. (7/2)
1:25 Kempton - Urbain De Sivola
Urbain De Sivola is making his chase debut today after running a blinder at Sandown when backed off the boards last time out. That was over 2 miles which looked a bit on the sharp side but he did look as if a switch to fences would be a benefit with the way he jumped. One of the interesting things about Urbain De Sivola is that he had a breathing operation before this season which looks to have bought around some improvement. Urbain De Sivola to make a winning chasing debut. (7/2)
2:00 Kempton - Annacotty
A few of you may scoff at this selection as he is the rank outsider of the field and his overall form so far isn't up to this standard, but he is better than that for sure. Connections try blinkers for the first time which looks an interesting move after a couple of below par efforts but he bounced right back at Chepstow last time. There is no way around it, this year's Feltham is a poor one by its usual standards and Just A Par is a worthy favourite, but I have serious doubts about him acting round Kempton. The selection is a course and distance winner however and is the only front runner in the field which is a huge positive as he is a 10 pound better horse when leading. Annacotty to run his rivals into the ground. (20/1)
3:10 Kempton - Al Ferof
In our jumps preview video I put up Al Ferof as the best bet of the season in this race so I'm happy he is here for starters. This race looks tailor made for Al Ferof and the only negative I can find is that he hasn't ran over 3 miles yet so is an unconfirmed stayer. I would have no doubts on that front and he will be racefit after an easy match at Ascot where he justified very short odds. There is no lack of pace here with horses such as Champion Court and Cue Card in the field so he will have a strong pace to aim at for sure. Al Ferof to take this race and continue is progression through the ranks and land the King George. (antepost 16/1)
NAP - Urbain De Sivola
Nb - Vaniteux
Good luck and as always, happy punting
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