Good Morning/Evening to you all, I have to apologise for the lack of a blog last weekend however I hope you enjoyed the Derby preview written earlier in the week. There was a good excuse for that though as I was dragged off to a wedding on the Friday afternoon which meant I had to watch the Oaks in a McDonalds car park, how was your day?
Australia was a fantastic winner of the Derby though with Kingston Hill chasing him all the way proving his Racing Post trophy win was no fluke and Romsdal shaped nicely as a St. Leger horse in third. But on to this weeks racing and as always we have a preview video for you featuring myself, @Calummadell and @Adamwebb121. We hope you enjoy tonight's show!
http://youtu.be/KkggC0bW_-U
Don't forget, I will be on BetRacingNation tomorrow morning from 10am till midday discussing all things racing with Royal Ascot high on the agenda. You can watch the show by tuning in to Sky 212 or watching on sportstonightlive.com.
Now onto today's selections!
2:20 Sandown - Sea Shanty
Sea Shanty made a winning reappearance when successful at Kempton and is also a course and distance winner from last May, before following that up with a second over course and distance once again. He clearly enjoys the stiffer mile at Sandown where his stamina will come to fruition and is only two pounds higher than last time out. Ryan Moore took over in the saddle that day due to an injury to Richard Hughes, but normal service is resumed today and the cheekpieces stay off. Judging from his latest runs over a mile, a strong pace looks a necessity which should be assured with the likes of Ishikawa in the field who is a regular trail blazer and won here 16 days ago. (7/1)
2:55 Sandown - Simple Magic
John Gosden throws Simple Magic in at the deep end here on her drop back to five furlongs after not cutting much ice when upped a furlong in trip. She ruined her chances on them occasions by pulling far too hard early on in the race and should appreciate a lightning fast pace and drop to the minimum trip. The draw has been kind to her but she can't miss the start like she did when disappointing at Newbury, however she did show tremendous speed to make up the lost ground that day before pulling too hard. On official ratings Simple Magic has a lot to find but she is fairly unexposed at the trip and should be a huge each way price for strong connections. (14/1)
3:25 Navan - Big Bad Lily
Lily is the name of my Grandmother so you can imagine the amount of fun we have when Big Bad Lily is on the TV, but enough of the sentimental stuff. She came good last time out after an encouraging effort at Fairyhouse when third, but she put that effort way behind her when bolting up at The Curragh in a competitive handicap. For that effort she has been raised eight pounds in the handicap but the claim of Ross Coakley negates four of them which makes life much easier today. She was very unlucky in running last time out and the excuses were making themselves, but just inside the final two furlongs she began to fly home and hit the front half a furlong out before scoring comfortably by two lengths. Big Bad Lily to make it back to back wins with the drop to five furlongs not posing any issues.
4:40 Sandown - Obsidian
Our final selection today will have entered many people's notebooks on debut at Newbury when flying home late on after being a long way off the pace turning for home. William Buick takes the ride from Frankie Dettori which can only be seen as a positive as he could have gone to York for Betimes. The form of the race hasn't been franked too much but only because we are still waiting for the others to reappear, however Moohaarib (6th) has since won at Ripon and Karaar (4th) reopposes today. One last thing is that the decision to run at a stiff track like Sandown could be an inspired one as stamina is in abundance here with the full brother to smart stablemate Fencing.
NAP - Obsidian
Nb - Big Bad Lily
Good luck today and as always, happy punting!!
Friday, 13 June 2014
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
2014 Investec Derby Preview
Australia
It seems right that we start with the long time favourite for the race and the horse who Aidan O'Brien has dubbed 'the best he has ever had' (Since that fantastic handicapper Camelot of course). Australia seemed to split the racing world right down the middle in the Guineas with one half saying he was a good thing and the other half saying he wasn't fast enough. However everyone seemed to agree with the fact that the Derby was his target for the season and he made a few friends after his encouraging third to Night Of Thunder at Newmarket. As with any member of the field, there are worries and we have to ask ourselves if the short
price tag is a true representation of his chances.
Worry number one, the ground? He has only experienced Good to Firm and Good ground in his short but successful career so far, with rain forecast all this week he could be thrown in at the deep end on Soft ground which he has never encountered.
Worry number two, the course? Epsom is about as unique as they come regarding the personality of the track with a downhill finish and steep camber running down to the centre of the course. Many horses over the years have come with big reputations but have failed to handle the undulations and punters were left burned at short odds. Obviously the same applies to everyone and Australia looks the ideal type on breeding with his Dam (Ouija Board) and Sire (Galileo) winning over course and distance, but there has to be a slight doubt in the back of your mind as with any runner in the field. (5/4)
Geoffrey Chaucer
As always Aidan O'Brien is not single handed in the Derby as he also saddles the current second favourite in Geoffrey Chaucer who lost his unbeaten tag last time out. That tag was accumulated as a two year old when winning a couple of nice races including the Beresford Stakes (Group 2) on only his second start. But last time out was the first real test for him when taking on Fascinating Rock and Ebanoran, who both conquered him that day resulting in a finish no better than third. There were a few excuses however, one being that the ride probably wasn't Joseph's finest hour and it has to be thought that he will improve as it was only his first start this season.
All in all Geoffrey Chaucer makes up into an intriguing candidate and definitely isn't out of place here, but he will need to improve significantly to land his mark on the race, despite strong market support recently. (8/1)
Kingston Hill
Roger Varian has his best chance of a Classic winner in his still young training career here with Kingston Hill who finished eighth in the 2000 Guineas, although the longer distance should suit him. It remains to be seen how much improvement the step up in trip will bring, but he really stamped his authority on the Derby scene last year when landing the Racing Post Trophy in fantastic style, however the form of that race is hugely underwhelming. One thing that is in his favour is the weather forecast as Soft ground seems to bring out the best in him as he proved at Doncaster last season. On all known form Kingston Hill looks as if he will come up a bit short against the best of these but a placed effort certainly isn't off the cards. (9/1)
True Story
Godolphin's first representative in the race now in the shape of True Story who until his Dante flop was meant to be the big danger to Australia, after winning impresively at Newmarket in a listed race first time up this season. His Dante run left something to be desired but saying that, the form has since been franked in a big way with The Grey Gatsby winning the Prix Du Jockey Club at Chantilly. There is also a huge doubt in my mind about his suitability to the course after not appearing overly balanced straightening up at York last time after being very keen early on. However for all you dressage fans he would perform some fantastic one time changes as he switched his lead leg every stride turning for home. For win purposes it is best to look elsewhere. (12/1)
Western Hymn
We have had the first of the Godolphin runners so now we move onto the first runner from John Gosden's yard, after stablemate Romsdal was supplemented into the race earlier in the week. William Buick however opts for the ride on Western Hymn after he justified short odds in a Group 3 at Sandown last time out on
bottomless ground. The main worry regarding his chances come after two racecourse gallops, the first being at Lingfield when he hung badly left when asked to quicken and the same happened at Epsom, however he had a work partner to limit the distance of his drift down the camber. For this reason it would be a surprise to me if Western Hymn could land a serious blow in the Derby however he looks a perfect horse for the St. Leger later in the season. (14/1)
Fascinating Rock
Fascinating Rock is definitely living up to the first part of his name as he really is a fascinating contender in the race after being awarded the race from Ebanoran last time out, with Geoffrey Chaucer back in third. The main thing to take into account about Dermot Weld's representative is that all his form his on softer ground, however judging from the way he carries himself through his races, testing ground isn't a necessity. The last point on the ground front is that he is by Fastnet Rock who's progeny can handle faster going as can horses out of the Dam, Miss Polaris who has only produced himself and hurdler Quick Jack. From that aspect it will be no problem at all and stamina doesn't look to be a bother on him, however the course will play a big part on the day and he may be one to suffer, but he doesn't look to be short on class and is definitely on for the shortlist. (14/1)
Ebanoran
John Oxx last won the Derby with the fantastic Sea The Stars, obviously Ebanoran isn't a patch on him but hold a respectable chance after running well against Fascinating Rock last time out. On that occasion Ebanoran actually passed the post first but got demoted to second place after drifting right late on into the
path of the eventual winner. He showed great battling qualities that day after showing a fantastic turn of foot when making Geoffrey Chaucer look ordinary in the process. If Ebanoran can hit the front then he is a huge danger to all and he remains a very interesting runner at a big price for Saturday's race. (16/1)
Arod
Peter Chapple-Hyam threw Arod in at the deep end when finishing runner up in the Dante behind The Grey Gatsby and shaped as if the step up in trip will suit. The main worry with him is that he was still green last time out, if that happens once again at Epsom then he is in deep trouble against genuine Group One animals. He may be one who possesses a lot of talent but we may have to wait a couple of more runs to see him fulfil his full potential. (16/1)
Orchestra
Ryan Moore teamed up with Orchestra to win the same prep race at Chester that his stablemate Ruler Of The World won before victory in the Derby itself. That came over slightly further than the Derby trip but he was in need of the line from quite a way out with Romsdal closing with every stride after a troubled passage. The main worry is that you can downgrade the run quite a bit as he was gifted the rail run which is like gold dust round Chester whereas Romsdal really had to fight. For that reason Orchestra is overlooked despite Ryan Moore showing interest in the ride. (16/1)
Sudden Wonder
Now it's time for the second Godolphin runner in the shape of Sudden Wonder who needs to step up on what he has shown so far in his career, but he is more than entitled to do that. He was last seen in the Lingfield Derby Trial when I found the tactics baffling as he is a horse who has never looked a non stayer, resulting in him struggling to show a turn of foot from the back of the field. The only way Sudden Wonder could play a part in the finish of the race is if he is allowed to lead all the way and put his stamina to good use. There is a possibility that he is used as a pacemaker for True Story but even if this happens he would still have solid place claims (66/1)
Snow Sky
Snow Sky beat Sudden Wonder back into third last time out in the Lingfield Derby Trial however he did get the run of the race when settled just behind the leader. There was also a worrying time when coming down the hill preparing to turn for home as he looked slightly off balance which will show round Tattenham Corner
if that were to happen again. It would be a bit of a shock were Snow Sky to win on Saturday in my eyes despite winning a key trial and a reversal of form with Sudden Wonder is expected. (20/1)
Romsdal
John Gosden decided it was worth supplementing Romsdal into the race earlier this week after a good staying performance when just denied by Orchestra at Chester. He has a troubled passage that day and it took a horse with Class to get close to the winner so you would fancy the placings to be reversed. Saying that he probably isn't good enough to win a Derby however like his stable mate Western Hymn, a crack at the St Leger doesn't look out of the equation. Overall he doesn't have the most obvious chance but if they go a break neck speed early on it could play into his hands as he looks a very strong stayer. (25/1)
Summary
In conclusion, it would take a very good horse to beat Australia there is no doubting, but it isn't beyond the realms of possibility. The key race to focus on could well have happened between Ebanoran and Fascinating Rock with the latter preferred to come out on top. Geoffrey Chaucer was back in third that day but would have to improve significantly to hit the frame despite have a troubled passage. Neither of the Lingfield Classic trials looked vintage but I would expect the form between Snow Sky and Sudden Wonder to be reversed as I would with Orchestra and Romsdal. There is no doubting that Western Hymn is a very good horse but I can't imagine Epsom being his cup of tea and Kingston Hill has left himself with a lot to prove after a scintillating two year old season. Arod is the only one left however as mentioned before I can't see him being forward enough to win a classic despite a good run in the Dante.
1st - Fascinating Rock
2nd - Australia
3rd - Ebanoran
It seems right that we start with the long time favourite for the race and the horse who Aidan O'Brien has dubbed 'the best he has ever had' (Since that fantastic handicapper Camelot of course). Australia seemed to split the racing world right down the middle in the Guineas with one half saying he was a good thing and the other half saying he wasn't fast enough. However everyone seemed to agree with the fact that the Derby was his target for the season and he made a few friends after his encouraging third to Night Of Thunder at Newmarket. As with any member of the field, there are worries and we have to ask ourselves if the short
 |
| Australia bids to win the Derby for Aidan O'Brien for the third successive year |
Worry number one, the ground? He has only experienced Good to Firm and Good ground in his short but successful career so far, with rain forecast all this week he could be thrown in at the deep end on Soft ground which he has never encountered.
Worry number two, the course? Epsom is about as unique as they come regarding the personality of the track with a downhill finish and steep camber running down to the centre of the course. Many horses over the years have come with big reputations but have failed to handle the undulations and punters were left burned at short odds. Obviously the same applies to everyone and Australia looks the ideal type on breeding with his Dam (Ouija Board) and Sire (Galileo) winning over course and distance, but there has to be a slight doubt in the back of your mind as with any runner in the field. (5/4)
Geoffrey Chaucer
As always Aidan O'Brien is not single handed in the Derby as he also saddles the current second favourite in Geoffrey Chaucer who lost his unbeaten tag last time out. That tag was accumulated as a two year old when winning a couple of nice races including the Beresford Stakes (Group 2) on only his second start. But last time out was the first real test for him when taking on Fascinating Rock and Ebanoran, who both conquered him that day resulting in a finish no better than third. There were a few excuses however, one being that the ride probably wasn't Joseph's finest hour and it has to be thought that he will improve as it was only his first start this season.
All in all Geoffrey Chaucer makes up into an intriguing candidate and definitely isn't out of place here, but he will need to improve significantly to land his mark on the race, despite strong market support recently. (8/1)
Kingston Hill
Roger Varian has his best chance of a Classic winner in his still young training career here with Kingston Hill who finished eighth in the 2000 Guineas, although the longer distance should suit him. It remains to be seen how much improvement the step up in trip will bring, but he really stamped his authority on the Derby scene last year when landing the Racing Post Trophy in fantastic style, however the form of that race is hugely underwhelming. One thing that is in his favour is the weather forecast as Soft ground seems to bring out the best in him as he proved at Doncaster last season. On all known form Kingston Hill looks as if he will come up a bit short against the best of these but a placed effort certainly isn't off the cards. (9/1)
True Story
Godolphin's first representative in the race now in the shape of True Story who until his Dante flop was meant to be the big danger to Australia, after winning impresively at Newmarket in a listed race first time up this season. His Dante run left something to be desired but saying that, the form has since been franked in a big way with The Grey Gatsby winning the Prix Du Jockey Club at Chantilly. There is also a huge doubt in my mind about his suitability to the course after not appearing overly balanced straightening up at York last time after being very keen early on. However for all you dressage fans he would perform some fantastic one time changes as he switched his lead leg every stride turning for home. For win purposes it is best to look elsewhere. (12/1)
Western Hymn
We have had the first of the Godolphin runners so now we move onto the first runner from John Gosden's yard, after stablemate Romsdal was supplemented into the race earlier in the week. William Buick however opts for the ride on Western Hymn after he justified short odds in a Group 3 at Sandown last time out on
 |
| Western Hymn in winning action at Sandown |
Fascinating Rock
Fascinating Rock is definitely living up to the first part of his name as he really is a fascinating contender in the race after being awarded the race from Ebanoran last time out, with Geoffrey Chaucer back in third. The main thing to take into account about Dermot Weld's representative is that all his form his on softer ground, however judging from the way he carries himself through his races, testing ground isn't a necessity. The last point on the ground front is that he is by Fastnet Rock who's progeny can handle faster going as can horses out of the Dam, Miss Polaris who has only produced himself and hurdler Quick Jack. From that aspect it will be no problem at all and stamina doesn't look to be a bother on him, however the course will play a big part on the day and he may be one to suffer, but he doesn't look to be short on class and is definitely on for the shortlist. (14/1)
Ebanoran
John Oxx last won the Derby with the fantastic Sea The Stars, obviously Ebanoran isn't a patch on him but hold a respectable chance after running well against Fascinating Rock last time out. On that occasion Ebanoran actually passed the post first but got demoted to second place after drifting right late on into the
 |
| Fascinating Rock (Noseband), Ebanoran (Green) and Geoffrey Chaucer (Behind) |
Arod
Peter Chapple-Hyam threw Arod in at the deep end when finishing runner up in the Dante behind The Grey Gatsby and shaped as if the step up in trip will suit. The main worry with him is that he was still green last time out, if that happens once again at Epsom then he is in deep trouble against genuine Group One animals. He may be one who possesses a lot of talent but we may have to wait a couple of more runs to see him fulfil his full potential. (16/1)
Orchestra
Ryan Moore teamed up with Orchestra to win the same prep race at Chester that his stablemate Ruler Of The World won before victory in the Derby itself. That came over slightly further than the Derby trip but he was in need of the line from quite a way out with Romsdal closing with every stride after a troubled passage. The main worry is that you can downgrade the run quite a bit as he was gifted the rail run which is like gold dust round Chester whereas Romsdal really had to fight. For that reason Orchestra is overlooked despite Ryan Moore showing interest in the ride. (16/1)
Sudden Wonder
Now it's time for the second Godolphin runner in the shape of Sudden Wonder who needs to step up on what he has shown so far in his career, but he is more than entitled to do that. He was last seen in the Lingfield Derby Trial when I found the tactics baffling as he is a horse who has never looked a non stayer, resulting in him struggling to show a turn of foot from the back of the field. The only way Sudden Wonder could play a part in the finish of the race is if he is allowed to lead all the way and put his stamina to good use. There is a possibility that he is used as a pacemaker for True Story but even if this happens he would still have solid place claims (66/1)
Snow Sky
Snow Sky beat Sudden Wonder back into third last time out in the Lingfield Derby Trial however he did get the run of the race when settled just behind the leader. There was also a worrying time when coming down the hill preparing to turn for home as he looked slightly off balance which will show round Tattenham Corner
 |
| Snow Sky winning the Lingfield Derby Trial |
Romsdal
John Gosden decided it was worth supplementing Romsdal into the race earlier this week after a good staying performance when just denied by Orchestra at Chester. He has a troubled passage that day and it took a horse with Class to get close to the winner so you would fancy the placings to be reversed. Saying that he probably isn't good enough to win a Derby however like his stable mate Western Hymn, a crack at the St Leger doesn't look out of the equation. Overall he doesn't have the most obvious chance but if they go a break neck speed early on it could play into his hands as he looks a very strong stayer. (25/1)
Summary
In conclusion, it would take a very good horse to beat Australia there is no doubting, but it isn't beyond the realms of possibility. The key race to focus on could well have happened between Ebanoran and Fascinating Rock with the latter preferred to come out on top. Geoffrey Chaucer was back in third that day but would have to improve significantly to hit the frame despite have a troubled passage. Neither of the Lingfield Classic trials looked vintage but I would expect the form between Snow Sky and Sudden Wonder to be reversed as I would with Orchestra and Romsdal. There is no doubting that Western Hymn is a very good horse but I can't imagine Epsom being his cup of tea and Kingston Hill has left himself with a lot to prove after a scintillating two year old season. Arod is the only one left however as mentioned before I can't see him being forward enough to win a classic despite a good run in the Dante.
1st - Fascinating Rock
2nd - Australia
3rd - Ebanoran
Friday, 30 May 2014
Fallon To Take The Right Steps At Haydock
Good Morning/Afternoon depending on when you are reading this, we can all relax a little this week now that the Scoop 6 was won last week after Chatez landed the last leg. As for the blog last week it was a little disappointing but our NAP came placed at an each way price and Anteros won at Ffos Las, however I am still confused as to how Runswick Royal got beat at Cartmel. That is racing however and we move onwards to a big day of racing from across the country.
As always we have a video preview prepared for you guys as we go through all of the days Channel 4 races. Joining me on the panel today are the regulars in @Calummadell, @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours. We hope you enjoy the show which we would like to dedicate to Henry Smith, a brave young boy who was cruelly taken from us far too soon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb9FZ29f5Pg
Now onto the days selections!
3:00 Newmarket - Picture Dealer
This will be Picture Dealer's third start for Lydia Pearce after leaving Gary Moore's yard late last year, when finishing fourth in the Ayr Silver Cup in during which he was luckless in running. On debut for the yard he finished a good second behind the at the time promising Lancelot Du Lac before shaping as if needing the run first time this season at the York Dante meeting. He was dropped a pound for that effort but in truth was never really asked for everything by Simon Pearce who once again claims three pounds today. If Picture Dealer can build on that opening effort then he could defy his price tag today and surprise a few people off a pound lower mark and on ground he loves. (16/1)
3:15 Haydock Park - Steps
There is no denying that Steps is ultra talented but he has also been called every name under the sun and not all positive remarks at that. This came after a string of seconds last season but he set the record straight with a cosy success over Eton Rifles at Ascot in a listed race. We have only seen him once this season in which he finished a good third to Lucky Beggar at Newbury, but he is a horse who usually needs a run before he is at his best. Kieren Fallon takes the ride for the first time which could be a fantastic jockey booking due to the strength he will provide from the saddle. Steps to get his season back on track for Roger Varian. (5/1)
5:45 Newmarket - Top Diktat
Gary Moore stole a few headlines with Sire De Grugy in the National Hunt season and despite not reaching that level, Top Diktat has raised a few eyebrows after stringing together four straight victories. That sensational run which has seen him rise 22 pounds in the handicap started at Kempton where he won easily twice before turning his attentions to the turf. He made that transition perfectly when first landing a Newbury handicap for Ryan Moore before the same duo were successful off a mark of 84 at Windsor. Today is obviously tougher but he won with some ease last time out giving the feeling there is plenty more to come off a 5 pound higher mark. (7/1)
8:10 Newbury - Laser Blazer
Alan King has been in good form as of late including Chatez who won the all important final race of the Scoop 6 last week making a few millionaires. He is represented here with Laser Blazer who reverts his attentions back to the flat after a couple of good efforts over hurdles including at Newbury despite being keen. We haven't seen him on the level since his days with Jeremy Gask and remains off a handy mark two pounds higher than his last win. Laser Blazer to land his first win for Alan King and Fergus Sweeney. (9/1)
NAP - Steps
Nb - Top Diktat
Good luck if you are having a bet today and as always, Happy Punting
As always we have a video preview prepared for you guys as we go through all of the days Channel 4 races. Joining me on the panel today are the regulars in @Calummadell, @Adamwebb121 and @Mytentoryours. We hope you enjoy the show which we would like to dedicate to Henry Smith, a brave young boy who was cruelly taken from us far too soon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb9FZ29f5Pg
Now onto the days selections!
3:00 Newmarket - Picture Dealer
This will be Picture Dealer's third start for Lydia Pearce after leaving Gary Moore's yard late last year, when finishing fourth in the Ayr Silver Cup in during which he was luckless in running. On debut for the yard he finished a good second behind the at the time promising Lancelot Du Lac before shaping as if needing the run first time this season at the York Dante meeting. He was dropped a pound for that effort but in truth was never really asked for everything by Simon Pearce who once again claims three pounds today. If Picture Dealer can build on that opening effort then he could defy his price tag today and surprise a few people off a pound lower mark and on ground he loves. (16/1)
3:15 Haydock Park - Steps
There is no denying that Steps is ultra talented but he has also been called every name under the sun and not all positive remarks at that. This came after a string of seconds last season but he set the record straight with a cosy success over Eton Rifles at Ascot in a listed race. We have only seen him once this season in which he finished a good third to Lucky Beggar at Newbury, but he is a horse who usually needs a run before he is at his best. Kieren Fallon takes the ride for the first time which could be a fantastic jockey booking due to the strength he will provide from the saddle. Steps to get his season back on track for Roger Varian. (5/1)
5:45 Newmarket - Top Diktat
Gary Moore stole a few headlines with Sire De Grugy in the National Hunt season and despite not reaching that level, Top Diktat has raised a few eyebrows after stringing together four straight victories. That sensational run which has seen him rise 22 pounds in the handicap started at Kempton where he won easily twice before turning his attentions to the turf. He made that transition perfectly when first landing a Newbury handicap for Ryan Moore before the same duo were successful off a mark of 84 at Windsor. Today is obviously tougher but he won with some ease last time out giving the feeling there is plenty more to come off a 5 pound higher mark. (7/1)
8:10 Newbury - Laser Blazer
Alan King has been in good form as of late including Chatez who won the all important final race of the Scoop 6 last week making a few millionaires. He is represented here with Laser Blazer who reverts his attentions back to the flat after a couple of good efforts over hurdles including at Newbury despite being keen. We haven't seen him on the level since his days with Jeremy Gask and remains off a handy mark two pounds higher than his last win. Laser Blazer to land his first win for Alan King and Fergus Sweeney. (9/1)
NAP - Steps
Nb - Top Diktat
Good luck if you are having a bet today and as always, Happy Punting
Friday, 23 May 2014
Atzeni To Take Flight At Haydock
Good Morning/Evening everyone, I hope we are all ready for a big weekend of racing including the Irish 1000 and 2000 Guineas which will see the return of Kingman. Racing this side of the Irish Sea however is headlined by Haydock who stage the Group 2 Temple Stakes won last year by Kingsgate Native who looks to go for his third win in the race. Goodwood provide a supporting card with two listed races on the schedule whereas there is also racing at Beverley and Catterick. We are also treated to some evening jumping courtesy of Ffos Las and Cartmel with The Curragh stage the Irish 2000 Guineas as well as two other Group 3 events.
As always we have a preview video prepared for you featuring myself (@Lukeelder13), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121). We hope you can join us on this week's video and I also hope you can join us on BetRacingNation tomorrow morning where I will be presenting the show for the first time from 11am - 1pm. You can watch the show live through a link I will tweet in the morning but you can watch tonight's video through the link below, enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MoQtk8ZQIQ
It was harder to pick the selections today so we have two shorter priced horses later on for a nice double... Hopefully!
2:40 Haydock - Pearl Secret
For me this year's Temple Stakes revolve around the two Qatar Racing horses with Hot Streak and and Pearl Secret with the latter finally getting his preferred ground. You would be forgiven for scoffing at the potential reversal of form from Newmarket when Hot Streak finished around 2 and a half lengths ahead of the selection. Hot Streak also gets an extra two pounds from Pearl Secret making it a seven pound difference instead of five, so why will the tables be turned? Depending on what time you are reading this you will get a different going description as early on Friday it was good but in the late evening it will be far softer. It is no hidden fact that Pearl Secret needs it soft to be seen at his best and in my opinion he didn't handle Newmarket at all last time resulting in Jamie Spencer giving him an easy time when his chance had gone. Pearl Secret to make his belated announcement amongst the top sprinters in the country. 4/1
Straight Forecast - Pearl Secret to beat Hot Streak
3:45 Haydock - First Flight
We move on to the Silver Bowl next and we can all have a giggle at my expense through this one, after his Maiden win at Newbury I backed First Flight for the 2000 Guineas which didn't exactly work out in my favour. Now we have that embarrassment out of the way we can move onto the part that matters for today. The sole Godolphin representative with Andrea Atzeni on board has only seen the racecourse three times in his career but was thought highly enough to contest a Group 3 on his second start. He was very green that day and did well to only be beaten four lengths albeit last of the six behind Treaty Of Paris and The Grey Gatsby who has franked the form in a big way this season. Saeed Bin Suroor has only given him one run as a three year old this season which came at Sandown on very testing ground behind What About Carlo. Turning for home he was still last and moved into the race in the style of a good horse before tiring up the hill and seemingly needing the run. It is worth noting that due to the ground that day, not many horses were getting competitive from the rear of the field with Western Hymn the exception. First Flight to get his career back on track with a victory in the Silver Bowl off the same mark of 90 last time out. 12/1
6:35 Ffos Las - Anteros
Anteros has been slightly unlucky over hurdles so far in his career in the sense that he has bumped into good horses on more than one occasion, but it all fell into place last time out over course and distance. That also looks a much stronger race than today's with Rolling Maul who finished third already boosting the form by winning easily at Market Rasen last week. On paper it would look as if there is only one danger to the selection in the shape of Tim Vaughan's Liberty Court, but Anteros should be good enough to dispose of him. Sophie Leech to get a winner with her only runner on the card with the improving Anteros.
7:55 Cartmel - Runswick Royal
Hopefully the late double is still going after Anteros goes to post with Runswick Royal as the last port of call today. The selection was by far the best of these over timber and went off 33/1 for the County Hurdle at Cheltenham after winning the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso, he was also second in a very good race on his debut over fences behind Master Of The Game. Despite losing out that day he had Orsippus and Ruacana in behind him who are good yardsticks in their own right. Runswick Royal to round the day off in good style and land our evening double.
Double - Anteros and Runswick Royal
NAP - First Flight
Nb - Pearl Secret
Have a great day everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
As always we have a preview video prepared for you featuring myself (@Lukeelder13), Calum Madell (@Calummadell) and Adam Webb (@Adamwebb121). We hope you can join us on this week's video and I also hope you can join us on BetRacingNation tomorrow morning where I will be presenting the show for the first time from 11am - 1pm. You can watch the show live through a link I will tweet in the morning but you can watch tonight's video through the link below, enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MoQtk8ZQIQ
It was harder to pick the selections today so we have two shorter priced horses later on for a nice double... Hopefully!
2:40 Haydock - Pearl Secret
For me this year's Temple Stakes revolve around the two Qatar Racing horses with Hot Streak and and Pearl Secret with the latter finally getting his preferred ground. You would be forgiven for scoffing at the potential reversal of form from Newmarket when Hot Streak finished around 2 and a half lengths ahead of the selection. Hot Streak also gets an extra two pounds from Pearl Secret making it a seven pound difference instead of five, so why will the tables be turned? Depending on what time you are reading this you will get a different going description as early on Friday it was good but in the late evening it will be far softer. It is no hidden fact that Pearl Secret needs it soft to be seen at his best and in my opinion he didn't handle Newmarket at all last time resulting in Jamie Spencer giving him an easy time when his chance had gone. Pearl Secret to make his belated announcement amongst the top sprinters in the country. 4/1
Straight Forecast - Pearl Secret to beat Hot Streak
3:45 Haydock - First Flight
We move on to the Silver Bowl next and we can all have a giggle at my expense through this one, after his Maiden win at Newbury I backed First Flight for the 2000 Guineas which didn't exactly work out in my favour. Now we have that embarrassment out of the way we can move onto the part that matters for today. The sole Godolphin representative with Andrea Atzeni on board has only seen the racecourse three times in his career but was thought highly enough to contest a Group 3 on his second start. He was very green that day and did well to only be beaten four lengths albeit last of the six behind Treaty Of Paris and The Grey Gatsby who has franked the form in a big way this season. Saeed Bin Suroor has only given him one run as a three year old this season which came at Sandown on very testing ground behind What About Carlo. Turning for home he was still last and moved into the race in the style of a good horse before tiring up the hill and seemingly needing the run. It is worth noting that due to the ground that day, not many horses were getting competitive from the rear of the field with Western Hymn the exception. First Flight to get his career back on track with a victory in the Silver Bowl off the same mark of 90 last time out. 12/1
6:35 Ffos Las - Anteros
Anteros has been slightly unlucky over hurdles so far in his career in the sense that he has bumped into good horses on more than one occasion, but it all fell into place last time out over course and distance. That also looks a much stronger race than today's with Rolling Maul who finished third already boosting the form by winning easily at Market Rasen last week. On paper it would look as if there is only one danger to the selection in the shape of Tim Vaughan's Liberty Court, but Anteros should be good enough to dispose of him. Sophie Leech to get a winner with her only runner on the card with the improving Anteros.
7:55 Cartmel - Runswick Royal
Hopefully the late double is still going after Anteros goes to post with Runswick Royal as the last port of call today. The selection was by far the best of these over timber and went off 33/1 for the County Hurdle at Cheltenham after winning the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso, he was also second in a very good race on his debut over fences behind Master Of The Game. Despite losing out that day he had Orsippus and Ruacana in behind him who are good yardsticks in their own right. Runswick Royal to round the day off in good style and land our evening double.
Double - Anteros and Runswick Royal
NAP - First Flight
Nb - Pearl Secret
Have a great day everyone and as always, Happy Punting!
Friday, 16 May 2014
Aeolus To Land Above The Stars
Good Morning/Evening to you all, I hope you are prepared for a big weekend of racing across the world including the Preakness Stakes over in America. But before that we have an action packed day of racing in England including the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes in which Farhh was victorious last season. That race is of course at Newbury who host the main card today with Newmarket providing a very good support card, Thirsk also provides one race towards the Scoop 6. Bangor and Uttoxeter also stage National Hunt cards as well as Punchestown who hold the only card in Ireland, evening racing comes courtesy of Doncaster.
As always we have a preview video where we discuss all of tomorrow's racing, joining the panel this week are myself and @Mytentoryours. We hope you enjoy the video and have a good day of punting!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38h7Zs3-jNg
Now onto the week's selections!!
2:05 Newbury - Mount Athos
Mount Athos has been aimed at the Melbourne Cup for the last two seasons and it would be a surprise if that were to be any different this time around for Marco Botti. He was a non runner last week at Chester due to soft ground which there is none of today and this may be an easier option with no Brown Panther or Hillstar to deal with. He should still be race fit after two outings in Meydan where he performed with credit including a very good third in a Group 2 before running with credit behind Gentildonna. Mount Athos to get us off to a good start for the day and boost his Melbourne Cup credentials.
2:55 Newmarket - Aeolus
Ed McMahon allows Aeolus to take his chance outside of handicap company for the first time since his second to Night Of Thunder as a two year old over six furlongs. He has only been seen once so far this season when third over course and distance behind Shifting Power who has since finished fourth in the 2000 Guineas. He was desperately unlucky that day however and was still hadn't been asked a question a furlong from home but had nowhere to go before flying home late on. That effort came off a mark of 101 and despite a big turn around with the weights with Parbold can put the record straight after a luckless run last time out.
3:30 Newmarket - Stars Above Me
Stars Above Me looked a very classy animal when losing his maiden tag late last season at Leicester, but wasn't able to build on that when finding Nova Champ too good on her reappearance. She travelled much the best that day and there is every chance she will improve for the experience as it was only her third visit to a racecourse, but has to contend with a three pound rise in the weights. William Buick takes the ride today replacing James Doyle who is at Newbury to ride Brass Ring, but that is hardly a negative, however the current yard form would be a slight worry. Stars Above Me to take another step forward in her career today and defy the three pound rise in the handicap.
3:50 Newbury - Montiridge
Trainer Richard Hannon is doubly represented here with Olympic Glory who is the short priced favourite and the selection Montiridge who is partnered by Richard Hughes. Nothing can be read into the jockey bookings however as Frankie Dettori has been retained by Al Shaqab Racing forcing the Champion Jockey onto the second string. It is hardly a bad ride to settle for though as he has always promised to win a big race but hasn't really had a load of chances at the highest level. Most recently he was seen chasing home Tullius at Sandown when soundly beaten, however he travelled by far the best that day and the ground is much more in his favour today. Montiridge to finally get his day in the sun and land his first Group One back on faster ground.
NAP - Aeolus
Nb - Stars Above Me
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
As always we have a preview video where we discuss all of tomorrow's racing, joining the panel this week are myself and @Mytentoryours. We hope you enjoy the video and have a good day of punting!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38h7Zs3-jNg
Now onto the week's selections!!
2:05 Newbury - Mount Athos
Mount Athos has been aimed at the Melbourne Cup for the last two seasons and it would be a surprise if that were to be any different this time around for Marco Botti. He was a non runner last week at Chester due to soft ground which there is none of today and this may be an easier option with no Brown Panther or Hillstar to deal with. He should still be race fit after two outings in Meydan where he performed with credit including a very good third in a Group 2 before running with credit behind Gentildonna. Mount Athos to get us off to a good start for the day and boost his Melbourne Cup credentials.
2:55 Newmarket - Aeolus
Ed McMahon allows Aeolus to take his chance outside of handicap company for the first time since his second to Night Of Thunder as a two year old over six furlongs. He has only been seen once so far this season when third over course and distance behind Shifting Power who has since finished fourth in the 2000 Guineas. He was desperately unlucky that day however and was still hadn't been asked a question a furlong from home but had nowhere to go before flying home late on. That effort came off a mark of 101 and despite a big turn around with the weights with Parbold can put the record straight after a luckless run last time out.
3:30 Newmarket - Stars Above Me
Stars Above Me looked a very classy animal when losing his maiden tag late last season at Leicester, but wasn't able to build on that when finding Nova Champ too good on her reappearance. She travelled much the best that day and there is every chance she will improve for the experience as it was only her third visit to a racecourse, but has to contend with a three pound rise in the weights. William Buick takes the ride today replacing James Doyle who is at Newbury to ride Brass Ring, but that is hardly a negative, however the current yard form would be a slight worry. Stars Above Me to take another step forward in her career today and defy the three pound rise in the handicap.
3:50 Newbury - Montiridge
Trainer Richard Hannon is doubly represented here with Olympic Glory who is the short priced favourite and the selection Montiridge who is partnered by Richard Hughes. Nothing can be read into the jockey bookings however as Frankie Dettori has been retained by Al Shaqab Racing forcing the Champion Jockey onto the second string. It is hardly a bad ride to settle for though as he has always promised to win a big race but hasn't really had a load of chances at the highest level. Most recently he was seen chasing home Tullius at Sandown when soundly beaten, however he travelled by far the best that day and the ground is much more in his favour today. Montiridge to finally get his day in the sun and land his first Group One back on faster ground.
NAP - Aeolus
Nb - Stars Above Me
Good luck today everyone and as always, Happy Punting
Friday, 9 May 2014
Wonder On Trial At Lingfield
Good morning/evening everyone, I hope we are all ready for an action packed weekend of racing as the flat season gets into full flow with... Well, jumps racing. That comes courtesy of Haydock who host what is now the only mixed card in the English racing calendar including the Swinton Hurdle won last year by Barizan. The days feature meeting is at Ascot as their card features the impossible handicap that is the Victoria Cup won last year by Excellent Guest who runs in this year's renewal. We also have the Derby and Oaks trials at Lingfield with flat racing also at Warwick, Thirsk and Nottingham with the latter featuring in the monster Scoop 6. The only other meeting in the UK today is at Hexham but they go to post at Wexford which is the only meeting in Ireland today.
As always we have a video prepared for you after last week finding the winner of the 2000 Guineas at 40/1 in Night Of Thunder. Joining me on the panel this week are the usual suspects of @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. We hope you enjoy the video and more importantly have guided you towards a winner or two, thank you for your support!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecuMiiWkGmA
You can also find our videos on the Getyourtipsout website for which we thank them greatly, you can follow them on twitter through their tag @GetYourTipsOut
http://www.getyour-tipsout.co.uk/ontheotherhoof.html
But now onto the selections for today!
2:55 Lingfield - Sudden Wonder
Godolphin haven't exactly hit the ground running this season with a few disappointments but Sudden Wonder was victorious first time out at the Craven meeting. He takes the step up to listed class today and more importantly over further for the Lingfield Derby Trial, which has been won by horses such as Main Sequence who was runner up in the big race two years ago. Sudden Wonder carries an entry in the Epsom Derby and carries a price tag of 33/1, however True Story looks the main Godolphin hope. The selection was last seen over ten furlongs and battled all the way to the line but in truth never really looked like losing out despite the narrow margin of victory. He has always looked a horse who would improve for a longer trip and is likely improving with age so it would be no surprise to see him post a better performance today.
3:50 Ascot - Pastoral Player
Today's second selection comes in the Victoria Cup where we will see the cavalry charge over the straight seven furlongs at Ascot. Preference out of the 29 runners comes in the shape of Pastoral Player who has been called every name under the sun in his time after some suspect performances. He has however had his fair share of bad rides which doesn't help when running in Group races and the drop back to handicap company could be just what the doctor ordered. After a failed effort at Wolverhampton with a view to the All Weather Championships he has been lowered an extra two pounds in the handicap, one pound lower than when winning over course and distance in 2011. As mentioned earlier, he isn't the most straight forward of horses but he should have won a few races recently when help from the saddle wasn't at a premium, Hayley Turner takes the ride today however which is a huge positive. One last positive is that he goes well fresh and has won first time out before as well as being sixth in this race in 2012 behind Global Village.
4:00 Lingfield - Dalayna
Alan de Royer-Dupre brings one horse over for this weekend which is incidentally Christophe Soumillon's only ride in England today and he is back at Longchamp tomorrow. Dalayna was last seen when fifth in a listed race at Maison Laffitte on good ground but before that had posted better performances on a softer going, both in listed races. The form of her overall races isn't that of a world beater, but she won't need to be to win today's race on her first crack at seven furlongs. Dalayna to make a winning raid and make it successive weekend's for French horses winning on English soil after Miss France.
4:40 Haydock - Green Wizard
Sue Smith's yard have been knocking on the door more than they have been winning lately but she usually comes into her own at this time of year with some summer jumpers. She is represented here by Green Wizard who has the eye catching jockey booking of Sam Twiston-Davies in what has to be said is a poor race with the prize money on offer. The selection was going well enough when coming down four out at Wetherby last time out in a race that fell apart late on with only two finishers. His jumping would have to be the main worry after also meeting his demise at the last when well in contention at Southwell but has proved his talent and chased home Green Flag off a mark of 128. Green Wizard to take advantage of his lower mark and provide a rare winner for the duo of Sam Twiston-Davies and Sue Smith.
NAP - Sudden Wonder
Nb - Pastoral Player (ew)
Good luck if you are having a bet this week and as always, happy punting!
As always we have a video prepared for you after last week finding the winner of the 2000 Guineas at 40/1 in Night Of Thunder. Joining me on the panel this week are the usual suspects of @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell. We hope you enjoy the video and more importantly have guided you towards a winner or two, thank you for your support!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecuMiiWkGmA
You can also find our videos on the Getyourtipsout website for which we thank them greatly, you can follow them on twitter through their tag @GetYourTipsOut
http://www.getyour-tipsout.co.uk/ontheotherhoof.html
But now onto the selections for today!
2:55 Lingfield - Sudden Wonder
Godolphin haven't exactly hit the ground running this season with a few disappointments but Sudden Wonder was victorious first time out at the Craven meeting. He takes the step up to listed class today and more importantly over further for the Lingfield Derby Trial, which has been won by horses such as Main Sequence who was runner up in the big race two years ago. Sudden Wonder carries an entry in the Epsom Derby and carries a price tag of 33/1, however True Story looks the main Godolphin hope. The selection was last seen over ten furlongs and battled all the way to the line but in truth never really looked like losing out despite the narrow margin of victory. He has always looked a horse who would improve for a longer trip and is likely improving with age so it would be no surprise to see him post a better performance today.
3:50 Ascot - Pastoral Player
Today's second selection comes in the Victoria Cup where we will see the cavalry charge over the straight seven furlongs at Ascot. Preference out of the 29 runners comes in the shape of Pastoral Player who has been called every name under the sun in his time after some suspect performances. He has however had his fair share of bad rides which doesn't help when running in Group races and the drop back to handicap company could be just what the doctor ordered. After a failed effort at Wolverhampton with a view to the All Weather Championships he has been lowered an extra two pounds in the handicap, one pound lower than when winning over course and distance in 2011. As mentioned earlier, he isn't the most straight forward of horses but he should have won a few races recently when help from the saddle wasn't at a premium, Hayley Turner takes the ride today however which is a huge positive. One last positive is that he goes well fresh and has won first time out before as well as being sixth in this race in 2012 behind Global Village.
4:00 Lingfield - Dalayna
Alan de Royer-Dupre brings one horse over for this weekend which is incidentally Christophe Soumillon's only ride in England today and he is back at Longchamp tomorrow. Dalayna was last seen when fifth in a listed race at Maison Laffitte on good ground but before that had posted better performances on a softer going, both in listed races. The form of her overall races isn't that of a world beater, but she won't need to be to win today's race on her first crack at seven furlongs. Dalayna to make a winning raid and make it successive weekend's for French horses winning on English soil after Miss France.
4:40 Haydock - Green Wizard
Sue Smith's yard have been knocking on the door more than they have been winning lately but she usually comes into her own at this time of year with some summer jumpers. She is represented here by Green Wizard who has the eye catching jockey booking of Sam Twiston-Davies in what has to be said is a poor race with the prize money on offer. The selection was going well enough when coming down four out at Wetherby last time out in a race that fell apart late on with only two finishers. His jumping would have to be the main worry after also meeting his demise at the last when well in contention at Southwell but has proved his talent and chased home Green Flag off a mark of 128. Green Wizard to take advantage of his lower mark and provide a rare winner for the duo of Sam Twiston-Davies and Sue Smith.
NAP - Sudden Wonder
Nb - Pastoral Player (ew)
Good luck if you are having a bet this week and as always, happy punting!
Friday, 2 May 2014
Toor To Leave Us Wanting More
Good Morning/Evening everybody, I hope we are all ready for a big weekend of racing from across the globe with our focus on England of course. The flat season is finding it's stride and today will mark the first Classic of the season in the 2000 Guineas in which Kingman is a warm favourite for. While the flat season warms up the jumps season is closing down as the final festival of the year at Punchestown marks it's last day of 2014. However as the main season of jumping winds down, the summer jumping season starts up and they go to post today at Uttoxeter and Hexham. The main meeting of the day comes from flat racing HQ which is of course Newmarket whereas Thirsk stage an eight race card including the Thirsk Hunt Cup (careful how you pronounce that). Supporting cards also come courtesy of Goodwood and Doncaster.
As always we have a video prepared for you as we cover all of tomorrow's racing including the 2000 Guineas. Joining me this week are the usual suspects in @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell, we hope you enjoy the show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJV4_QMm2WE
Now onto today's selections.
2:55 Goodwood - Jack's Revenge
Jack's Revenge was last seen when seventh in the Lincoln earlier this year behind Ocean Tempest who won a listed race at Ascot this week. He looked to have needed that run so should strip fitter today and over a furlong shorter which may suit against weaker rivals. As always he comes with a health warning as he isn't the most straight forward of rides but on his day he is a very classy animal and has been lowered a pound for his latest effort. Out of the six horses that beat Jack's Revenge in the Lincoln, four of them won on their next start with one finishing fifth in a big handicap and the other being our next selection for the day. The form is clearly very strong from the last race and we take Jack's Revenge to put it all together today. (13/2)
3:40 Thirsk - Off Art
As mentioned in the write up for Jack's Revenge, Off Art also last ran in the Lincoln when strongly fancied and sent off 7/1 joint favourite with Tullius. He was successful on this card last year and there was a great deal of stable confidence behind him that day and he ran with credit against more experienced rivals who as previously mentioned have franked the form since. Tim Easterby's Colt has remained on the same mark after that run which would seem a winning mark with three of the four horses that beat him winning next time out. One of those horses is Robert The Painter who with Julie Burke's three pound claim runs off the same mark as the Lincoln, however improvement is expected in Off Art. David Allan to steer Off Art to victory in the Thirsk Hunt Cup and get his career back on track after disappointment last time. (5/1)
3:50 Newmarket - Toormore
Next up is the 2000 Guineas which looks to be one of the best renewals of the race in recent times with Kingman heading the market after a decisive success in the Greenham. We side with Toormore however who won the Craven in good style which is run over the same course and distance as the 2000 Guineas. Upon first viewing of the Craven you couldn't help but feel a little disappointed by the performance as he only beat The Grey Gatsby by two lengths. However he was increasing that winning distance at the end of the race and he can never be described as an emphatic winning of any race he has contested so far. That didn't stop him being crowned as Champion 2 year old last year after winning the National Stakes at the Curragh when making all. That has been a trend of his last two runs in that he has led from start to finish, but his Goodwood victory proved that the lead isn't a necessity when catching Outstrip on the line.
Kingman staked his claims when winning the Greenham in very easy fashion and handing out a four and a half length beating to Night Of Thunder in the process. I would be very wary about taking that form too literally as Night Of Thunder was the NAP of the day on the blog, however I couldn't back him after seeing his appearance in the parade ring. There is no way he was anywhere near 100% fit and if I didn't know any better he looked a touch lame on a hind leg, which would make his performance a good one. I'm not saying that he will overturn the form of Newbury but he is around 33/1 at the moment which is a ludicrous price. Toormore however get's the vote ahead of War Command. (8/1)
4:25 Newmarket - Stars Above Me
Roger Charlton confirmed Stars Above Me as a non runner at Sandown last week due to the ground getting too soft which will clearly be no problem today. We have only seen him on a racecourse twice but in them two runs he has accumulated a mark of 88 which looks very much below her. She made her debut at Glorious Goodwood and found only Valonia too good with Coral Mist behind her in third which was an eye catching first run. She then went to Leicester next time out where she won despite being frightfully keen throughout the who race but kept on in taking style to distance herself from the main field. She dips her hoof into handicap company for the first time today which should see a faster pace and should help her settle somewhat, but Stars Above Me is taken to continue her improvement. (3/1)
NAP - Stars Above Me
Nb - Toormore
Good luck everyone and as always, Happy Punting.
As always we have a video prepared for you as we cover all of tomorrow's racing including the 2000 Guineas. Joining me this week are the usual suspects in @Adamwebb121, @Mytentoryours and @Calummadell, we hope you enjoy the show!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJV4_QMm2WE
Now onto today's selections.
2:55 Goodwood - Jack's Revenge
Jack's Revenge was last seen when seventh in the Lincoln earlier this year behind Ocean Tempest who won a listed race at Ascot this week. He looked to have needed that run so should strip fitter today and over a furlong shorter which may suit against weaker rivals. As always he comes with a health warning as he isn't the most straight forward of rides but on his day he is a very classy animal and has been lowered a pound for his latest effort. Out of the six horses that beat Jack's Revenge in the Lincoln, four of them won on their next start with one finishing fifth in a big handicap and the other being our next selection for the day. The form is clearly very strong from the last race and we take Jack's Revenge to put it all together today. (13/2)
3:40 Thirsk - Off Art
As mentioned in the write up for Jack's Revenge, Off Art also last ran in the Lincoln when strongly fancied and sent off 7/1 joint favourite with Tullius. He was successful on this card last year and there was a great deal of stable confidence behind him that day and he ran with credit against more experienced rivals who as previously mentioned have franked the form since. Tim Easterby's Colt has remained on the same mark after that run which would seem a winning mark with three of the four horses that beat him winning next time out. One of those horses is Robert The Painter who with Julie Burke's three pound claim runs off the same mark as the Lincoln, however improvement is expected in Off Art. David Allan to steer Off Art to victory in the Thirsk Hunt Cup and get his career back on track after disappointment last time. (5/1)
3:50 Newmarket - Toormore
Next up is the 2000 Guineas which looks to be one of the best renewals of the race in recent times with Kingman heading the market after a decisive success in the Greenham. We side with Toormore however who won the Craven in good style which is run over the same course and distance as the 2000 Guineas. Upon first viewing of the Craven you couldn't help but feel a little disappointed by the performance as he only beat The Grey Gatsby by two lengths. However he was increasing that winning distance at the end of the race and he can never be described as an emphatic winning of any race he has contested so far. That didn't stop him being crowned as Champion 2 year old last year after winning the National Stakes at the Curragh when making all. That has been a trend of his last two runs in that he has led from start to finish, but his Goodwood victory proved that the lead isn't a necessity when catching Outstrip on the line.
Kingman staked his claims when winning the Greenham in very easy fashion and handing out a four and a half length beating to Night Of Thunder in the process. I would be very wary about taking that form too literally as Night Of Thunder was the NAP of the day on the blog, however I couldn't back him after seeing his appearance in the parade ring. There is no way he was anywhere near 100% fit and if I didn't know any better he looked a touch lame on a hind leg, which would make his performance a good one. I'm not saying that he will overturn the form of Newbury but he is around 33/1 at the moment which is a ludicrous price. Toormore however get's the vote ahead of War Command. (8/1)
4:25 Newmarket - Stars Above Me
Roger Charlton confirmed Stars Above Me as a non runner at Sandown last week due to the ground getting too soft which will clearly be no problem today. We have only seen him on a racecourse twice but in them two runs he has accumulated a mark of 88 which looks very much below her. She made her debut at Glorious Goodwood and found only Valonia too good with Coral Mist behind her in third which was an eye catching first run. She then went to Leicester next time out where she won despite being frightfully keen throughout the who race but kept on in taking style to distance herself from the main field. She dips her hoof into handicap company for the first time today which should see a faster pace and should help her settle somewhat, but Stars Above Me is taken to continue her improvement. (3/1)
NAP - Stars Above Me
Nb - Toormore
Good luck everyone and as always, Happy Punting.
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