Good Morning/Evening and a good wet weekend to you all, hopefully you all received many Valentine's cards unlike myself and are loved up for today's racing. We are getting closer and closer to Cheltenham and today bring us even more trials as well as it does more inspections which are becoming a daily thing now. Thankfully the day's two main meetings in England at Ascot and Haydock look certain to go ahead albeit in very testing ground. Lingfield obviously have no problems as they are on the polytrack but please take precaution if you are going there today. As far as inspections go, Wincanton will have to pass a precautionary inspection at 7:30am and Gowran Park have announced an inspection for tomorrow morning.
Last week however was a successful one after the first selection being a non runner in Tickity Bleue. The day got off to a great start with our NAP winning in the form of Upswing, but we have Mr McCoy to thank for that ride I think you'll agree. Next up was Balder Succes who jumped fantastically round Warwick and looked a live candidate for the Arkle before Alan King ruled him out of that. Module was next up in the Game Spirit as he outbattled Dodging Bullets and Hillbilly Boy returned us some each way money at Wolverhampton. All round, a very good day and our dinners were paid for! Well done if you backed any of them.
As always we have a video prepared for you previewing the Channel 4 racing and any other notable races in the day. Joining the panel this week are Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and the enigmatic Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We hope you enjoy the show and let us know any fancies of yours tomorrow or indeed at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7aOkIuV3bU
But now onto todays selections!!
2:05 Ascot - Many Clouds
You wont need me to tell you how well Oliver Sherwood's yard have been going this season and Many Clouds is one of his stable stars so far. He started off this season in winning style at Carlisle when comfortably beating Knock A Hand and Holywell over 2 and a half miles, before getting beat at Haydock. That remains his only chase defeat and there is every chance that Black Thunder just had too much toe for him that day with Shotgun Paddy well beaten in third. Last time out he went for a confidence booster at Wetherby in what has turned out to be a very strong race with the other 2 horses in the race winning since. Indian Castle was beaten 16 lengths and went on to beat Annacotty in a handicap at Cheltenham, whereas Pinerolo is a horse I very much like and won at Catterick this week. The step up in trip is well in Many Clouds' favour as I feel he has stamina in abundance and should take all the beating today. (2/1)
3:05 Wincanton - Ut Majeur Aulmes
We will be hoping that Wincanton can pass the morning inspection as if they do Ut Majeur Aulmes will have a great chance. He really impressed me when winning at Uttoxeter in December before running a good race in defeat over course and distance last time out. He was behind Quick Decisson that day but a strongly run race should see them two closer today, but the form horse is the runner up. They were separated by two has since been seen finishing a staying on sixth in the Betfair Hurdle last week at Newbury. The selection himself is a big strapping individual who definitely has a future over fences but a mark of 123 could still be lenient and will take all the beating today. (11/2)
3:15 Ascot - Like Minded
Dan Skelton has done very well with Like Minded after losing his way at Paul Nicholls' yard before one start for Paul Henderson. His first run for the yard was at Kempton when staying on well to grab 2nd behind God's Own who has since performced with credit over fences. He was then sent to Aintree where he duly obliged off a mark of 129 when just repelling Party Rock who was game in defeat. Many horses can win in a handicap and find life much tougher next time out but I was impressed with him in the Lanzarote behind Saphir De Rheu. The runner up in that race has since been second to Fingal Bay at Exeter so once again the form is stacking up nicely. I was impressed with the Like Minded travelled the last day as I could see him being a bit short of speed, but there could just be one more win in him today. (17/2)
4:05 Haydock - Wuff
Wuff is a horse that I really like after seeing him in a bumper here at Haydock when second to the useful Desoto County. He has looked even better in two hurdle wins since then however, firstly when rallying to beat Allow Dallow at Uttoxter over and extended 2 and a half miles. He looked beat that day turning for home but stamina kicked in and he motored up up the far side to win by half a length with Cogry further back in third. He really impressed me last time when providing us with a winning NAP on the blog over half a mile shorter in a good looking race. Both himself and Straidnahanna who re-opposes on worse terms were a long way clear of the third horse when separated by just a short head. In truth Wuff was probably value for further that day after only really getting going when switched out wide after the last when previously held in. One last note is that my good scouse friend Adam Webb informed that Paddy Brennan said he was flat out the whole way last time so the step up to 3 miles is a huge positive. Wuff is taken to step up in trip and class and make it a hat-trick over hurdles. (5/1)
NAP - Wuff
Nb - Many Clouds
Good luck and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 14 February 2014
Friday, 7 February 2014
AP will Swing to Cheltenham
Good Morning/Evening everyone, it seems a bit of a running theme now that we aren't sure whether racing will go ahead or not in some places. Newbury however are hopeful ahead of their Betfair Hurdle meeting today which promises to be another good race, with Chris Pea Green looking to emulate the great Heathcote. We hope to race at Warwick as well but that meeting must pass an inspection in the morning at 7am, so lets hope we wake up to good news. They also go to post on the all weather at Lingfield as well at Wolverhampton in the evening and Naas hold a good jumps card in Ireland.
Earlier in the week we did our first Cheltenham preview where we looked at the Supreme Novices Hurdle and the Champion Hurdle. As always on the show we had Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We were also very lucky to be joined by Nick Scholfield who gave us updates on Irving and Melodic Rendezvous who hold good chances at Cheltenham. Watch the whole show by clicking the link below and you can also find the show for today in the second link, hope you enjoy the shows!
Cheltenham Preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ
Today's Show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InTvhVz9r9g
Now onto today's selections!
1:35 Warwick - Tickity Bleue
It is no secret that Alan King has had a few problems in his yard, so much so that for the majority of January they shut down and had single figure runners in the month. During the slump before hand Tickity Bleue was one of the minority who won during that time when dead heating over further than this. She probably didn't stay that time as they were walking late on but she has shown before that she has plenty of speed about her so 2 miles will be no problem. Seemingly Wayne Hutchinson could have gone to Newbury to ride Vendor in the Betfair Hurdle but instead comes to Warwick for some good rides. Tickity Bleue to land the opener at Warwick and continue the good form of Alan King. (9/2)
1:50 Newbury - Upswing
If Upswing is going to get into the Pertemps at Cheltenham in March then he is going to have to win this and win well off his mark of 128. Currently he is 7 pounds out of the handicap going on last years ratings for the race so there wont be anything spared in winning today if able. He is still a young horse however and remains an individual with the world of potential as of present so could still have a bit more improvement left. We last saw him at Wincanton when he came down at the last just before his challenge on the eventual winner Champagne West who has since won again from 9 pounds higher. It was his two runs prior that caught my eye after he bolted up at Carlisle before going to a hot handicap at Cheltenham behind Thomas Crapper. Not much got into the race from the back of the field that day except for him and Killala Quay but he managed a good sixth, before staying on well at Sandown over shorter than this. Upswing to win and gain access to the Pertempt while doing so. (7/2)
2:40 Warwick - Balder Succes
It wasn't too long ago that we were talking about Balder Succes as one of the chief Arkle contenders before he fell at Cheltenham and then clearly wasn't right at Sandown last time. Once again his latest run came in the middle of the dry patch at the Alan King yard so can easily be forgotten as they all seem ready first time back. In truth this is a much weaker contest than the selection has been running in and if he is as good as we think then he'll take all the beating today. It can also be thrown in that he is a course and distance winner when jumping fantastically round here in November as he did on chase debut. Balder Succes to stake his Cheltenham claims and follow in the footsteps of his stablemate Valdez. (13/8)
3:00 Newbury - Module
Before we get into the selection here id like to just say one thing. Shame on Betfair and Shame on Newbury Racecourse... Oh sorry, The Racecourse Newbury for bringing a race with a heritage like the Game Spirit to nothing. This year the official name is the 'Betfair Cash Out Chase (Registered as the Game Spirit Chase)' which gives it the same name as a Novice Chase at Haydock in November. Is there any reason it can't be called the Betfair Game Spirit Chase? Or is that too much to ask from either party? Anyway rant over but this is just embarrassing for the sport.
Module was somewhat a disappointment last time at Huntingdon in the Peterborough when fourth behind Riverside Theatre and 9 lengths off the third place horse Captain Chris. He was well fancied by all that day but his jumping seemed to let him down somewhat, so he drops back to the same trip that saw him just beat at Exeter. This looks like it could be an ideal race for him as he gets 3 pounds from Dodging Bullets who of course is a novice as is Raya Star. Tom George's yard has been in decent form as of late and arguably should have had another winner on Friday in Chartreux before falling. Module can get back to winning ways here though in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury Racecourse. (9/4)
7:20 Wolverhampton - Hillbilly Boy
A rare visit to the polytrack now as Hillbilly Boy makes his debut for the 'young' up and coming trainer Martin Smith, after being bought from a seller at Lingfield. He was probably value for a further winning distance last time as his rider dropped his whip 2 furlongs out when beating Kuanyao by a head. There isn't much to him in truth but unlike his trainer he is a good looking individual and he doesn't lack anything in a battle as we found out last time. The highest mark he has held is 83 after finishing down the field in the Chesham at Royal Ascot but has since found the step up to 7 furlongs in his favour. Hillbilly Boy to round off today in style at a nice enough price as well, Good luck to Martin Smith and all involved too!! (10/1)
NAP - Upswing
Nb - Tickity Bleue
Good Luck today guys and as always Happy Punting.
Earlier in the week we did our first Cheltenham preview where we looked at the Supreme Novices Hurdle and the Champion Hurdle. As always on the show we had Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Michael Andrews (@Mytentoryours). We were also very lucky to be joined by Nick Scholfield who gave us updates on Irving and Melodic Rendezvous who hold good chances at Cheltenham. Watch the whole show by clicking the link below and you can also find the show for today in the second link, hope you enjoy the shows!
Cheltenham Preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fFzX0bqxTQ
Today's Show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InTvhVz9r9g
Now onto today's selections!
1:35 Warwick - Tickity Bleue
It is no secret that Alan King has had a few problems in his yard, so much so that for the majority of January they shut down and had single figure runners in the month. During the slump before hand Tickity Bleue was one of the minority who won during that time when dead heating over further than this. She probably didn't stay that time as they were walking late on but she has shown before that she has plenty of speed about her so 2 miles will be no problem. Seemingly Wayne Hutchinson could have gone to Newbury to ride Vendor in the Betfair Hurdle but instead comes to Warwick for some good rides. Tickity Bleue to land the opener at Warwick and continue the good form of Alan King. (9/2)
1:50 Newbury - Upswing
If Upswing is going to get into the Pertemps at Cheltenham in March then he is going to have to win this and win well off his mark of 128. Currently he is 7 pounds out of the handicap going on last years ratings for the race so there wont be anything spared in winning today if able. He is still a young horse however and remains an individual with the world of potential as of present so could still have a bit more improvement left. We last saw him at Wincanton when he came down at the last just before his challenge on the eventual winner Champagne West who has since won again from 9 pounds higher. It was his two runs prior that caught my eye after he bolted up at Carlisle before going to a hot handicap at Cheltenham behind Thomas Crapper. Not much got into the race from the back of the field that day except for him and Killala Quay but he managed a good sixth, before staying on well at Sandown over shorter than this. Upswing to win and gain access to the Pertempt while doing so. (7/2)
2:40 Warwick - Balder Succes
It wasn't too long ago that we were talking about Balder Succes as one of the chief Arkle contenders before he fell at Cheltenham and then clearly wasn't right at Sandown last time. Once again his latest run came in the middle of the dry patch at the Alan King yard so can easily be forgotten as they all seem ready first time back. In truth this is a much weaker contest than the selection has been running in and if he is as good as we think then he'll take all the beating today. It can also be thrown in that he is a course and distance winner when jumping fantastically round here in November as he did on chase debut. Balder Succes to stake his Cheltenham claims and follow in the footsteps of his stablemate Valdez. (13/8)
3:00 Newbury - Module
Before we get into the selection here id like to just say one thing. Shame on Betfair and Shame on Newbury Racecourse... Oh sorry, The Racecourse Newbury for bringing a race with a heritage like the Game Spirit to nothing. This year the official name is the 'Betfair Cash Out Chase (Registered as the Game Spirit Chase)' which gives it the same name as a Novice Chase at Haydock in November. Is there any reason it can't be called the Betfair Game Spirit Chase? Or is that too much to ask from either party? Anyway rant over but this is just embarrassing for the sport.
Module was somewhat a disappointment last time at Huntingdon in the Peterborough when fourth behind Riverside Theatre and 9 lengths off the third place horse Captain Chris. He was well fancied by all that day but his jumping seemed to let him down somewhat, so he drops back to the same trip that saw him just beat at Exeter. This looks like it could be an ideal race for him as he gets 3 pounds from Dodging Bullets who of course is a novice as is Raya Star. Tom George's yard has been in decent form as of late and arguably should have had another winner on Friday in Chartreux before falling. Module can get back to winning ways here though in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury Racecourse. (9/4)
7:20 Wolverhampton - Hillbilly Boy
A rare visit to the polytrack now as Hillbilly Boy makes his debut for the 'young' up and coming trainer Martin Smith, after being bought from a seller at Lingfield. He was probably value for a further winning distance last time as his rider dropped his whip 2 furlongs out when beating Kuanyao by a head. There isn't much to him in truth but unlike his trainer he is a good looking individual and he doesn't lack anything in a battle as we found out last time. The highest mark he has held is 83 after finishing down the field in the Chesham at Royal Ascot but has since found the step up to 7 furlongs in his favour. Hillbilly Boy to round off today in style at a nice enough price as well, Good luck to Martin Smith and all involved too!! (10/1)
NAP - Upswing
Nb - Tickity Bleue
Good Luck today guys and as always Happy Punting.
Friday, 31 January 2014
It Takes Soll To Win
Good Morning/Evening everyone, I greet you in a lowered voice today as at the time of writing any jumps racing looks unlikely. The English summer has gone into overdrive in the past month and we are really starting to feel the effects, but nonetheless we forge on.
Today we hope to race at Sandown, Wetherby and Ffos Las who all hold inspections early in the morning to see if racing will be possible today. Just in case they meet their maker we have two all weather meetings to rescue us with Lingfield and Wolverhampton potentially saving the day. We are assured some jumping in Ireland though as Fairyhouse seem to have avoided all the rain and will definitely go ahead baring accidents.
As always we have a preview video for you prepared but with a few difficulties this week, our apologies for that. We hope you enjoy it nonetheless as I am joined by @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours, alternatively you can follow me on twitter if you dont already at @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy the weekly broadcast!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwYfCwJD7KI
One last thing before we move onto the selections. Earlier this week I put up three Cheltenham Festival ante post selections, you can find them through the link below if you haven't already seen them.
http://lukeelder.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/cheltenham-2014-ante-post-selections.html
Now onto this week's racing!
1:30 Ffos Las - Comte D'anjou
Nick Williams Gelding caught my eye last time out at Sandown in what looks to be a hot Novice Hurdle won by the useful Vaniteux. Despite being beaten 29 and a quarter lengths he ran much better than that margin suggests after leading for the whole way to be headed just before two out. it is also worth noting that he tried to run out before the 2nd last hurdle just where the chase course at Sandown cuts away for the Pond Fence. Today is much easier and Comte D'anjou's only attempt on Heavy ground resulted in a victory when beating Vibrato Valtat who is a decent yardstick at Exeter. The stable really like this one and he should give a bold showing in today's opener at Ffos Las. (No Price Yet)
2:10 Wetherby - No Planning
Sue Smith's yard has been in great form lately and they can have some positive news with No Planning here after Aurora's Encore was forced into retirement through injury this week. He was victorious here in November over 3 miles and a furlong off a 5 pounds lower mark than he runs off here. Today will be all about stamina in the ground so the drop in trip doesn't scare me at all and he has won in testing ground before. Ryan Mania takes to the saddle today who gets on particularly well with him and has won on him three times and placed a further three times. No Planning to land the spoils today. (4/1)
2:45 Wetherby - Rattlin
Rattlin can round off a quickfire Sue Smith double here under Callum Bewley who won on her two runs ago off a 10 pounds lower mark than this. She is stepped back up in trip today after last time struggling for pace late on yet still only finding Saphir River too good on the day. She is back over a trip that she won over two outings ago for today's run however this could well be a tougher race than that. Once again the ground will be no issue to her and it would be no surprise were she to find the winners enclosure once again. Rattlin to relish the step up in trip once more. (5/2)
3:35 Sandown - Soll
Jo Hughes is probably best known for training London Bridge to win the Breeders Cup Marathon last year, but she has a Grand National hope here with Soll. He has shown a liking for Sandown on more than one occasion including a faultless victory here over course and distance last March. The two times he has made the trip to Sandown he has jumped impeccably and was in the process of doing that when lacking race fitness last time. He will strip much fitter for that run and off a pound lower looks to hold every chance, a win would also ensure he gets into the Grand National field. Soll to land another Sandown prize. (7/1) The selection stands if he is redirected to the 2:40 at Ffos Las as well
NAP - Soll
Nb - Comte D'anjou
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting
Today we hope to race at Sandown, Wetherby and Ffos Las who all hold inspections early in the morning to see if racing will be possible today. Just in case they meet their maker we have two all weather meetings to rescue us with Lingfield and Wolverhampton potentially saving the day. We are assured some jumping in Ireland though as Fairyhouse seem to have avoided all the rain and will definitely go ahead baring accidents.
As always we have a preview video for you prepared but with a few difficulties this week, our apologies for that. We hope you enjoy it nonetheless as I am joined by @Adamwebb121, @Calummadell and @Mytentoryours, alternatively you can follow me on twitter if you dont already at @Lukeelder13. Hope you enjoy the weekly broadcast!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwYfCwJD7KI
One last thing before we move onto the selections. Earlier this week I put up three Cheltenham Festival ante post selections, you can find them through the link below if you haven't already seen them.
http://lukeelder.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/cheltenham-2014-ante-post-selections.html
Now onto this week's racing!
1:30 Ffos Las - Comte D'anjou
Nick Williams Gelding caught my eye last time out at Sandown in what looks to be a hot Novice Hurdle won by the useful Vaniteux. Despite being beaten 29 and a quarter lengths he ran much better than that margin suggests after leading for the whole way to be headed just before two out. it is also worth noting that he tried to run out before the 2nd last hurdle just where the chase course at Sandown cuts away for the Pond Fence. Today is much easier and Comte D'anjou's only attempt on Heavy ground resulted in a victory when beating Vibrato Valtat who is a decent yardstick at Exeter. The stable really like this one and he should give a bold showing in today's opener at Ffos Las. (No Price Yet)
2:10 Wetherby - No Planning
Sue Smith's yard has been in great form lately and they can have some positive news with No Planning here after Aurora's Encore was forced into retirement through injury this week. He was victorious here in November over 3 miles and a furlong off a 5 pounds lower mark than he runs off here. Today will be all about stamina in the ground so the drop in trip doesn't scare me at all and he has won in testing ground before. Ryan Mania takes to the saddle today who gets on particularly well with him and has won on him three times and placed a further three times. No Planning to land the spoils today. (4/1)
2:45 Wetherby - Rattlin
Rattlin can round off a quickfire Sue Smith double here under Callum Bewley who won on her two runs ago off a 10 pounds lower mark than this. She is stepped back up in trip today after last time struggling for pace late on yet still only finding Saphir River too good on the day. She is back over a trip that she won over two outings ago for today's run however this could well be a tougher race than that. Once again the ground will be no issue to her and it would be no surprise were she to find the winners enclosure once again. Rattlin to relish the step up in trip once more. (5/2)
3:35 Sandown - Soll
Jo Hughes is probably best known for training London Bridge to win the Breeders Cup Marathon last year, but she has a Grand National hope here with Soll. He has shown a liking for Sandown on more than one occasion including a faultless victory here over course and distance last March. The two times he has made the trip to Sandown he has jumped impeccably and was in the process of doing that when lacking race fitness last time. He will strip much fitter for that run and off a pound lower looks to hold every chance, a win would also ensure he gets into the Grand National field. Soll to land another Sandown prize. (7/1) The selection stands if he is redirected to the 2:40 at Ffos Las as well
NAP - Soll
Nb - Comte D'anjou
Good luck today and as always, Happy Punting
Thursday, 30 January 2014
Cheltenham 2014 Ante Post Selections
During the build up to Cheltenham I will be posting some ante post fancies of mine on the blog and introducing a Festival points system! (Oooooooooh) Enjoy!
Mouse Morris had a great day out with Baily Green last year when he was beaten two and a quarter lengths by Simonsig in the Arkle, after looking the winner at one point. In truth two miles has never really been Baily Green's specialist trip despite winning over it 4 times including 3 chases in Novice company. Outside of the Novice ranks he has proved a more than useful horse over 2 and a half miles, after shaping as if stamina was at a premium last time in the Grade 2 Kinloch Brae Chase at Thurles. His jumping was brilliant throughout that race except for at the last when he surrendered the advantage to the smooth travelling Texas Jack, but still managed to rally for 2nd beaten three parts of a length.
Earlier on in the season Baily Green had gone down by a length and a quarter to dual Cheltenham Festival winner Sizing Europe over the same trip. One of the main reasons for the selection is the yearly limbo of who will take their place in the Ryanair and who will go to the Gold Cup which is getting clearer by the day. There
has been sustained support for Benefficient this week which would give the idea that he will be running providing all is well with him. We then work our way down to three horses who will undoubtedly be in the Gold Cup, I speak of Cue Card, Al Ferof and First Lieutenant with Dynaste in next who also has his options open. Further down you get to the likes of Menorah, Cantlow and Hidden Cyclone who in truth really should not be shorter than Baily Green, not that we mind.
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| Baily Green in Action at Cheltenham last year |
In short I fully expect Cheltenham to once again play to Baily Green's strengths and after such a strong display last season, another is very much expected. Note that Mouse Morris has said that Baily Green is much more likely to take up his engagement here if Sprinter Sacre runs in the Champion Chase.
Baily Green - 2 points each way at 25/1 (Ladbrokes and Betfred)
Arkle - Grandouet
I'm expecting a lot of abuse for this next selection which is probably justified but along with the minority on Twitter I feel Grandouet is overpriced. It's hard to believe that he is still just a 7 year old as he seems to have been around forever but remains lightly raced having only seen the racecourse in England and Ireland 16 times. Admittedly a lot of his time off has been forced through injury but in my mind he has strengthened physically every year of his career. Let's start off in a unique fashion and quash some usual counter arguments against him.
He is a bridle horse - Untrue, his victory in the International Hurdle of 2011 and his 2nd in the Henry VIII this season proves that he isn't, he does however travel very stylishly.
He can't jump - Also untrue, sure on his debut he was a bit jittery at times but what Novice isn't? His unseating at the last wasn't entirely his fault but he did make a mistake which you can't deny. He then went on to finish second in a Grade 1 and arguably would have won for a mistake at a bad time, he jumped the tricky Sandown fences very well however.
He is too keen for his own good - This one can be true but do you really think in the Arkle they will be going a crawl? Especially if Champagne Fever turns up to ensure its a stamina test.
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| Grandouet (Centre) winning the International at Cheltenham |
Cheltenham isn't his track - Bar the one time he didn't complete in last years Champion Hurdle his record round Prestbury Park is pretty good. From four completions he is yet to finish outside of the first 3 including a Grade 2 victory and a place as well as a third in a Grade 1. Does that sound like a horse who doesn't like the track?
Finally, he isn't good enough - Grandouet was rated 166 over hurdles and has a Grade 1 and Grade 2 victory to his name, he IS good enough.
So there are a few theories answered about Grandouet and one final point is that it doesn't worry me that he is a maiden over fences. Of course it isn't ideal but he ran with great credit in one of the strongest Novice Chases this season and is yet to run on Good ground which he relishes. Forget his last Kempton effort, that was a farce of a race and he probably should never have ran on ground as soft as it was.
Grandouet - 2 points each way at 16/1 (Paddypower and Bet365)
Supreme - Irving
Paul Nicholls' has one here in Irving that has really impressed me this season on all three starts showing a great temperament and versatility throughout. He started off life in England with a fantastic display at Taunton when beating the potentially useful Cup Final with the minimum of fuss after travelling strongly.
He then went on to what would be his first visit to Ascot in what has to be said was an average race however the runner up has since run well in better company. That race was run very slowly so turned into a dash, but you wouldn't have thought so by looking at how strung out Irving had them at the finish. Once again he moved stylishly throughout and had things in control turning for home, but it was two fantastic jumps helped seal the victory with Nick Scholfield easing him close to home.
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| Irving in winning action at Ascot |
Next on the agenda was the Grade 2 Kennel Gate Novices Hurdle in which Volnay De Thaix was sent off the 4/5 favourite but was brushed aside by Irving. It came as a surprise to many to see Prince Siegfried giving Irving the most to think about but he fell at the last when looking held in truth. This race was run in a completely different manner to his previous victories as Splash Of Ginge ensured a good gallop, but Irving still oozed class with the way he travelled. The only complaint that can be made is that he got in a little bit tight to the second last but he soon picked up and was leading at the last.
The only thing left to mention is that Irving will be taking the route that My Tent Or Yours followed on the run up to Cheltenham last year, by running in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury. He gets into that race off a lenitent mark of 143 which he should be able to handle with no problems but it is a tough race of course.
Irving - 3 points win at 10/1 (Paddypower and Betvictor)
1 point at 33/1 Irving to win the Betfair Hurdle and Supreme Novices (Paddypower and Bet 365)
Friday, 24 January 2014
Djak To Stay on Track at Leopardstown
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!!
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, 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!!
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