Free Horse Racing tips and notes from our pro tipster, Malcolm Boyle appear here daily. All Weather tips from Dmouse can be found on the Dmouse Tip Star page, to read his latest selections log in to the Tip Star Tipping Competition.
ArchiveExeter Racing Tips -- Friday 20/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.50: GREEN BELT ELITE
nb- 16.00: SHALI SAN
13.05
Paul Nicholls has snared two of the last three renewals fo this event and THERE'S NO PANIC can give a lift to the stable which has not enjoyed the best of luck/results of late by their high standards. Six-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick and SONG SUNG BLUE will certainly represent the vintage to good effect whilst the aptly named FOUR STRONG WINDS is the each way call in the contest.
13.40
My self imposed ruling to only offer one name in these 'win only' events has returned to haunt me on this occasion as all four runners could realistically win the contest. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by marginally nominating FLIGHT LEADER who might represent value for money against the Nicholls horse.
14.15
All five winners have carried weights of 11-2 or more whereby the bottom three horses can be eliminated if like me you take the stats seriously. STRADBROOK and RICHARD'S SUNDANCE are the pair to take against the field.
14.50
The bottom five horses in the handicap are set to struggle if the weight stats are to be believed. GREEN BELT ELITE should take the beating on this ground whilst win and place investors might consider the likes of PASS ME A DIME and FORTY FIVE.
15:25
The nine represented trainers boast stats in the last fortnight of just 2/79 which hardly boosts confidence when assessing the contest. My tentative trio consists of TARA TAYLOR, RANDJO and ACONITUM, the three horses being listed in order of preference.
16.00
Five-year-olds have won both renewals to date and SHALI SAN and DONTSAYATHING have definite chances of landing the hat trick on behalf of the vintage. The potential party-pooper in the line up is CANNI THINKAAR.
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Wednesday 18/11/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.00: GALLANTRY
nb- 15.00: TROOPINGTHECOLOUR
12.00
With just three winning form lines in evidence via the last six outings for each of the twelve contenders, confidence cannot be described as anything but low but something has to win and my trio against the field consists of RED CURRENT, INQUISITRESS and MY FLAME. Good luck!
12.30
IF I WERE A BOY would be screaming out to be backed from an each way 'bet to nothing' perspective if one of the other runners drops out during the morning in what would then become a 'dead eight' event. Failing that, DIAM QUEEN and COME ON SAFARI make most appeal.
13.00
Richard Hannon has won two of the three claiming events since the flat season 'ended' and ROYAL BOX is not without a chance of improving the ratio still further. RAMAMARA wasn't beaten far on Monday and has to enter the mix, possibly alongside INSIDE TRACK.
13.30
JARROW and PICNIC PARTY should dominate this event from what we have witnessed thus far. Both horses have experienced just the one run to date and were impressive via their individual performances though the pair are listed in order of preference.
14:00
Three-year-olds have won five of the last ten renewals of this event yet junior raiders are conspicuous by their absence this time around. Trainers infuriate yours truly on a regular basis! Next time you hear about handlers bleating about the lack of prize money and opportunities for their horses, remember the 14.00 event at Lingifled on Wednesday 18th November! Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by offering PRIMUS TAGULA, GALLANTRY and ALFRESCO against the field, primarily becuase four of the last six winners have carried weights of 9-3 or more.
14.30
A 33/1 winner emerged via the inaugural running of this contest twelve months ago but with seemingly all twelve runners in with some sort of chance here, the winner will probably start around the 8/1 mark taking the average percentages into account. That fact brings COPPER KING, MARJURY DAW and SPINNING RIDGE into contention on this occasion.
15.00
Only one of John Gosden's last nine runners has finished 'out of the three', stats which include four winners! John's Nayef colt TROOPINGTHECOLOUR fits the bill accordingly, though with the Godolphin team sending out winners for fun at the time of writing, ROYAATY cannot be ignored. NEW COUTURE will win races in time but probably not this one at the first time of asking in such warm company.
15.30
Regular readers will be aware that I pay minimum attention to these amateur rider events. I usually rely on the experienced pilots in the field rather than the ability of the equine raiders, whereby I will nominate MOONSHINE CREEK, ARDMADDY and EXTREMELY SO this time around.
Fakenham Racing Tips -- Tuesday 17/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.30: BUSKER ROYAL
nb- 15.00: GREAT TSAR
13.00
Last year's prolific winner Little Shilling landed this event twelve months ago but I don't believe we have a horse of that calibre in this line up. LITTLE FIRECRACKER has been consistent in the extreme from a runner up perspective and another cheque of some description should be on its way to connections following the contest. PEARLY STAR might prove to be the party pooper on this occasion, whilst PIPERS LEGEND is another each way option.
13.30
I would wager that not many racecourses could declare good going just now but typically, a lot of the rain appears to have missed this part of the world. Connections of DUSK will be grateful as their progressive four-year-old scored under such conditions last time out. MORESTEAD would be a well timed winner for Brendan Powell who continues to recover from a mild heart attack a couple of weeks back.
13.50
THE BETCHWORTH KID could be one of the more interesting recruits to the winter game this season, especially as Alan King's raider acts on soft ground. Three of his four victories on the level were gained under such conditions whereby no excuses will be made if things go pear shaped around two o'clock this afternoon. COIN OF THE REALM has performed well over timber to date and you should not need me to remind you that Brighton based Gary Moore excels at 'local' tracks.
14.00
Talking of hearts, Donald McCain saddles his Red Ransom filly KIND HEART is this contest and the recent Aintree winner should run well alongside the other one hundred per cent performer in the line up, namely EVENING SUNSET from Mick Quinlan's yard. Tony McCoy has beebn booked to ride and the champion jockey should enjoy another good ride, especially in receipt of seven pounds from the two dual winners at the top of the list. AM I BLUE is the most interesting of the five newcomers according to the gospel of yours truly.
14:30
Course winners are worth a few lengths at this venue and recent winner BUSKER ROYAL should take the beating here as Tony McCoy's mount is 'only' asked to give six pounds away to his four rivals. The six-year-old beat No Panic by twenty nine lengths here some three and a half weeks ago and you will be able to gain a late form guide via the 1.40 event at Folkestone on Tuesday which No Panic contests. However that horse runs, I expect BUSKER ROYAL to follow up in style here, chiefly at the expense of GEORGIAN KING.
15.00
Very little (nothing) to work with here in terms of trends from the two renewals thus far, whereby GREAT TSAR (Tim Vaughan) and MY CONDOR (Donald McCain) are offered against the field as the handlers are the only represented trainers who have saddled winners (nine between them) within the last fortnight at the time of writing.
15.30
All seven winners have carried weights of 11-2 or less which eliminates six of the fourteen runners (conveniently ignore claiming pilots) if you take the stats seriously. My trio against the field consists of WESTSTERN, CHALICE WELCOME and KASSUTA, with MISTER FIZZBOMB nominated as the overnight reserve.
Plumpton Racing Tips -- Monday 16/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.20: SOLE AGENT
nb- 14.20: BENSALEM
12.50
The Sinndar gelding ANAK is the 'talking horse' in the line up though if you want to part with hard earned cash on a 4/9 chance on 'bad ground', you are a braver person than yours truly and no mistake! COUER BRULE is the obvious forecast/alternative option to nominate, albeit I wouldn't have a bet in this event using your money.
13.20
AMBLE FORGE, SOLE AGENT and RUSSIAN FLAG all go on the ground to a fashion which will be worth several lengths against their seven rivals.
13.50
THE BETCHWORTH KID could be one of the more interesting recruits to the winter game this season, especially as Alan King's raider acts on soft ground. Three of his four victories on the level were gained under such conditions whereby no excuses will be made if things go pear shaped around two o'clock this afternoon. COIN OF THE REALM has performed well over timber to date and you should not need me to remind you that Brighton based Gary Moore excels at 'local' tracks.
14.20
BENSALEM should complete a short priced double for the King yard providing the six-year-old is not too ring-rusty following seven months off the track. As a winner of a much better soft ground Sandown race on his seasonal debut last year, BENSALEM should win with plenty to spare, becoming yet another soft ground Turtle Island specialist in the process. DEN OF INIQUITY is a useful horse in his own right and is nominated as forecast material if you want to play the race that way.
14:50
The wheels might fall off the Alan King/Robert Thornton bandwagon here as another potential favourite from the yard (STORMHOEK) registered his only victory to date on good ground, conditions which will not be in evidence on this occasion. I'm not suggesting that the four-year-old cannot win, but the odds on offer will probably reflect the fact that this is a stiffer task on the anticipated ground though 'running up' money in the betting shops might stop the horse from going off at a realistic price if Alan King comes into the race on a hat trick. QUARTANO and LE COMMENCEMENT are the alternatives if you are looking to oppose STORMHOEK.
15.20
A poor race whereby it would seem foolish to concentrate on horses at the top of the market when (literally) any of the six contenders could win. If you need an explanation, consider the fact that Quartz Du Montceau is listed as second favourite, yet the five-year-old remains a maiden following nineteen attempts! This is not to say that Peter Toole's mount cannot win in such a moderate event obviously, but you hopefully take my point. Value for money could be found via MAGIC MOMENTS and GO JOHNNY GO, though I wouldn't bank on it!
15.50
Time to catch the early train home if you're going to Plumpton I suggest, as this is a finale which is worth watching, but that's just about all. If you must have a bet, the likes of KAYBEEW, SILVER FOOTNOTE and SHE'S SASSY might serve best but let's face it, unless you are 'in the know' you are playing guessing games.
Fontwell Racing Tips -- Sunday 15/11/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 12.20: PETE THE FEAT
e/w- 15.10: BALLYGALLEY BOB
12.20
PETE THE FEAT has some decent form buried in his dim and distant past which might enable the five-year-old to become competitive at this level. DEW DROP IN and SMART AND SHARP are feared most.
12.50
MOUNT OSCAR and SEBASTIANO would appear to have this race at their mercy, providing the ground does not become almost unraceable.
13.25
L'EAU DU NIL has won on soft ground and despite giving weight away to all five rivals, this race should be his for the taking. GRACECHURCH cannot be trusted but the six-year-old should be good enough to fill the forecast position.14.00: Conditions have come right for COLONIAL JIM who appears to only have old stager KAPPELHOFF to beat.
14.35
TULLAMORE DEW would have a leading chance in this grade/company if Nick Gifford decides to run the seven-year-old here instead of an alternative option at Cheltenham on Sunday afternoon. If that scenario fails to materialise, the likes of ALASAO, SOUTH O'THE BORDER and MY TURN NOW might best take advantage of his defection.
15:10
BALLYGALLEY BOB appears to be one of the better value for money bets on the card despite the number of contenders. A winner under desperate conditions already in his career, the eight-year-old looks certain to trouble the judge one way or the other. THE GANGERMAN and the appropriately named TEEMING RAIN are others to consider.
15.40
HOPEFUL START would not be one of Jonjo O'Neill's leading lights but the five-year-old holds an undeniable chance at this level. CASUAL GARCIA and ASHFIELD'S DREAM might offer most resistance up the home stright.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider at Cheltenham:
14.20: EL DANCER / SIMARIAN / EUROPEAN DREAM
14.55: TULLAMORE DEW / AMORE MIO / FRUITY O'ROONEY
15.30: QUENTIN COLLONGES
16.00: BANJO DAVIS
Wetherby Racing Tips -- Saturday 14/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.25: GAORA LANE
nb- 13.45: DEUTERONOMY
12.40
It's disappointing to start a half decent card with a selling event but something has to win and according to the weights and measures people, LEULAHLEULAHLAY should go close. MY LES and GOSWICK could prove to be the pick of the newcomers to the winter game.
13.10
Just three four-year-olds lined up in the inaugural contest twelve moenhts ago and if we ignore the unplaced 100/1 representative, it's worth noting the four-year-olds snared the gold and bronze medals at 10/1 and 9/4. Just two 'junior' raiders have been declared this time around but I will be including both CARMELA MARIA and KISS ME HARDY (preferred in that order) in my overnight mix. The Newton Abbot winner CANDLE completes my trio against the field, even though the top weight has suffered a couple of subsequent reversals on the level.
13.45
DEUTERONOMY finished second in the inaugural running of this contest last year when beaten in a photo finish having been sent off as one of the two 4/1 joint favourites. There is every chance that John Wade's eight-year-old can go one better this time around especially if the ground becomes desperate as his only success to date was recorded on heavy going. DARINA'S BOY has won on soft ground on two occasions whereby Sue Smith's joint top weight might offer most resistance close home, possibly alongside AVOINE.
14.20
This appears to be a better race than last year's contest with the likes of SPRING BREEZE, HI DANCER and QUAY MEADOW having been declared. The trio are listed in marginal preference though any win money will be held safely under lock and key.
14:55
Five-year-olds have won four of the last five renewals and the trend looks set to continue with vintage representatives CURRAHEE, FUSHE JO and ROSBAY in attendance to name but three of the four options.
15.25
Six of the last eight winners have carried weights of 11-4 or more which suggests that the bottom three horses in the handicap might struggle to land a blow. GAORA LANE could be another winner for the impressive five pound claimer Peter Toole whilst BELON GALE and ZITENKA can become competitive during the final circuit.
15.55
There is little doubt that Mission Control is a horse full of potential but the weight coupled with potentially soft/heavy ground will surely act as an anchor as the four-year-old is asked to concede twenty one pounds (before the riders claim) to his nine opponents. DONNY BRIGGS has won under soft conditions whilst WAVE POWER and FRANKIE ANSON might also take full advantage of the concession.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider at Cheltenham:
13.55: GALANT NUIT and HELLO BUD
14.25: ACCORDING TO PETE and POP
15.10: GREAT ENDEAVOUR and LE BEAU BAI
15.45: ZAFRANAGAR
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Friday 13/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.05: WHISTLE BLOWER
e/w- 14.50: STAN'S COOL CAT
12.35
Ian Williams has his team in fine fettle and I'm a little surprised he has found the time to find a race for ENSNARE with possible winners to saddle at Cheltenham this afternoon. Fair play to the trainer for his attention to detail and the declaration should ensure that at least one winner comes the way of the yard today. MISS EZE and HURAKAN are feared most.
13.05
John Gosden has his team in winning form again and the trainer landed a Nursery event on Wednesday whereby WHISTLE BLOWER could be another two-year-old handicap gold medallist for the trainer this week. MIRABELLA must be considered a threat, possibly alongside the likes of BE A DEVIL and BRAVE GHURKA from an each way perspective.
13.35
Three-year-olds have won three of the last five renewals as is often the case in these mixed vintage events. Just three junior raiders have been declared this time around which fits the bill nicely, naming SPIRITUAL ART, DIAMOND TWISTER and HIGHLAND RIVER in marginal order of preference.
14.15
The Oasis Dream filly MEMORANDUM should be able to win her maiden but I wouldn't go taking a short price about Roger Charlton's raider, albeit the March foal has not done a great deal wrong to date. AVON CASTLE might be the newcomer to consider whilst MOSA MINE is the other experienced runner in the field that catches the eye.
14:50
Fillies on a wet and windy day is not the recipe for a great deal of success whereby I can only offer the tentative trio of STAN'S COOL CAT, POYLE MEG and CRITICAL PATH against the field.
15.25
Three-year-olds have won the last four renewals of this penultimate race on the card and John Gosden appears to have found a good opportunity for KINETIX to score at the sixth attempt. The Linamix raider is not one for borrowed money however, as the likes of FRENCH HOLLOW and MAGISTRATE could simply have too much resolve for Jimmy Fortune's mount close home.
15.55
Five of the last six winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more whereby the chances of both RESPLENDENT ACE and HUCKING HERO have to be taken seriously. Those of you looking for the proverbial 'bet to nothing' in this 'dead eight' finale could do worse than consider ARMADDY on this occasion.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider at Cheltenham:
13.15: NEVER SO BLUE and NOTABOTHERONME
14.25: CONSIGLIERE
15.35: REGAL APPROACH
16.05: WEIRD AL and LITTLE JOSH
Taunton Racing Tips -- Thursday 12/11/2009
Best bets:
nb- 13.40: POSH EMILY
nap- 14.10: CARTIER OPERA
13.10
Five and six-year-olds have shared the last six renewals of this opening event (even split) whereby my trio of representatives via the two vintages consists of ISINTSHELOVELY, COUP DE TABAC and MIGHT AS WELL.
13.40
The last three winners of this event have carried weights of 11-5 or more and I expect the modern trend to continue via the likes of POSH EMILY, WHITE MOSS and CALZAGHE.
14.10
Four of the last six winners have carried weights of 11-9 or more and CARTIER OPERA (11-9) certainly creates plenty of interest in the contest. AL QANOON and DARAMOON might offer most resistance close home.
14.40
I wouldn't be inclined to take the current 8/13 odds about AUSTRALIA DAY, though I'm mindful that Paul Webber's raider will take the beating. DON'T PANIC is nominated as the each way alternative, whilst SALTAGIOO is an interesting newcomer to onsider from Alan King's powerful yard.
15:10
Younger horses dominated the frame in the inaugural contest twelve months ago whereby DOCTOR ROBERT, SHUT THE BAR (perish the thought) and SPANISH CONQUEST might be the way to go this time around.
15.40
Eight of the last nine winners have carried weights of 11-3 or more which seemingly scuppers the chances of the bottom three horses in the line up. I'm focusing on FORTIFICATION, MASTER COBBBLER and DUNE RAIDER at the time of writing.
16.10
KILLOBEE will fail to represent value for money in the finale but the name of the game is winners and Alan King's Beneficial gelding is the likeliest gold medallist in the line up according to the gospel of yours truly. OPENING MEET and STRICTLY BUSINESS will hopefully make things interesting during the last quarter of a mile in the contest.
Southwell Racing Tips -- Wednesday 11/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.30: LADY CAVENDISH
nb- 16.00: EFISIO PRINCESS
13.00
The five renewals to date have brought about a top priced winner of 7/1 whilst two market leaders (the last two) have prevailed. Just one of the other three favourites has finished in the frame however. The Ishiguru gelding THATLITTLECOLT is an interesting newcomer though more logical winners include KUMMEL EXCESS and DIMAIRE.
13.30
MALT OR MASH would have picked this lot up and carried them a year or two back but time catches up with us all even though Richard Hannon's raider remains a relatively young horse at just five years of age. I cannot support the top weight on this slow surface until he has actually won here at Southwell whereby I will reluctantly pass him over over in favour of BOUNDLESS PROSPECT, APPLAUDE and LOST SOLDIER THREE on this occasion.
14.00
All six horses to secure toteplacepot/each way positions to date have carried weights of 9-1 or less, including the two winners at odds of 40/1 and 16/1. GOLD DIAMOND is equipped with blinkers for the first time which should enable Mark Johnston's raider to become competitive, whilst others down the weights to consider include BABY JUDGE and ADMIRAL COCHRANE.
14.30
LADY CAVENISH and ANNIA are well treated if you take the official figures seriously whilst DONTBUGTHEBUNNY represents George Baker who trained the inaugural winner of this event twelve months ago. BURY ST EDMUNDS receives the reserve nomination on this occasion.
15:00
CREEVEY is an outsider to consider if only because Sylvester Kirk really came into his own during the 'close season' last year. More logical winners via the form book include POWER OF DREAMS and SASSANIAN. COMRADESHIP is an obvious horse to mention but I still question the resolve of John Gosden's potential favourite which makes the top weight more of a lay than a play in my book.
15.30
The three horses to finish in the frame in the first running of this race twelve months ago carried weights of 8-12 or more whereby DART, SAUTE and THEY ALL LAUGHED will represent yours truly in the penultimate event on the card.
16.00
EFISIO PRINCESS won the inaugural event last year and having returned to winning form at Windsor last time out, the six-year-old can defend her crown in the finale. KENSINGTON is the each way call if you are looking for one whilst PREMIER LAD looks sure to be on the premises at the furlong marker.
Exeter Racing Tips -- Tuesday 10/11/2009
Best bets:
nb- 14.40: INCHIDALY ROCK
nap- 16.10: THE MINACK
13.40
Some of the top yards in the land are represented in this opening event, the pick of whick might prove to be Alan King (BRUKIRK LASS), Evan Williams (GILWEN GLORY) and Venetia Williams (KAHSABELLE).
14.10
This is a new race on the Exeter card which has attracted fifteen runners which makes for a refreshing change. Three of the last seven runners sent out by David Pipe have won whereby the chance of PRINCE GEENO is greatly respected even if his form leaves a little to be desired. THE GREAT ALFIE and REFERENT represent the powerful yards of Nigel Twiston-Davies and Philip Hobbs respectfully whereby this trio will do for me against the field. SIR BATHWICK also represents David in the contest but PRINCE GEENO is expected to finish ahead of his stable companion on this occasion.
14.40
Paul Nicholls comes to this particular gig on a hat trick and INCHIDALY ROCK is a perfectly decent representative to take on the task. GILES CROSS and HEY BIG SPENDER are the nominated dangers in an interesting event.
15.10
Several horses come into this contest with potential winning chances but AJZAL is the least exposed of the eleven contenders whereby the Tom George raider can supplement his Wincanton success. Andrew Turnell is enjoying plenty of each way success at the time of writing; hence CAPTAIN AMERICO is considered from a win and place perspective though COPPER BLEU is a more logical winner according to the form book.
15:40
DIGITAL MEDIA represents the Burrough yard which has won the last two runnings of this event, albeit via the same horse. BUAILTEOIR is the potential party poopper in the line up this time around.
16.10
THE MINACK should complete a double for the Nicholls/Walsh bandwagon in the finale, the five-year-old possibly having BEST OSCAR to beat.
Wolverhampton Racing Tips -- Monday 09/11/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.40: DREAM NUMBER
nb- 16.10: TANGERINE TREES
14.05
GRAMERCY would have disappointed connections and punters alike last time out because despite contesting a warm maiden event, Michael Bell's well touted juvenile failed to build on a half decent debut performance. I will give the Whipper colt another chance however as this is just his third run to date whereby there is plenty of time for the March foal to get his act together. NOTTE DI NOTE and KENSWICK are feared most on this occasion.
14.35
This is arguably the poorest race of the day whereby ORDER ORDER should be good
enough to finally win at the twelth attempt. MEML could be James Bethell's fourth juvenile
winner of the season which would be a pretty decent return, bearing in mind the trainer
saddled just the one two-year-old winner during the enite 2008 campaign. DAVANA completes
my trio against the field.
15.05
Mick Channon won this event last year and though the trainer does not saddle too many runners/winners following the end of the turf season, Mick obviously believes there is a race to be won with this year's representative WHIPPERAWAY. Similar comments could be made about David Evans and his raider MIND OF HER OWN, whilst Peter Makin has found a decent opportunity for his Trade Fair debuntante FEVER TREE who would not have to be overly precocious to figure at the business end of proceedings.
15.40
Despite saddling ninety four juvenile winners last season, Richard Hannon only won two races during the last seven weeks of the year after the turf campaign had ended. I've a notion that Richard will go all out to reach the hundred mark this time around, having already equalled his final total via a double at Doncaster on Saturday. Richard is certainly well represented in this event with LA PANTERA and MASTER OF DANCE and others included in my overnight mix include DREAM NUMBER and STEF AND STELIO.
16:10
TANGERINE TREES is a winner of one of
his four A/W races to date (here at
Wolverhampton) and with Bryan Smart's team
approaching something like their true form, the
Mind Games gelding can return to winning ways.
LA GIFTED and TRIMLESTOWN arer tentatively
selected as the pair to beat.
16.40
SPINNING comes to the gig on a seven
pound higher mark according to official figures
compared to his winning weight twelve months
ago in this contest. The six-year-old looks sure
to figure prominently though the extra pounds
offer the likes of GAILY NOBLE and LUJANO
definite chances.
Hereford Racing Tips -- Sunday 08/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.30: CARTIER OPERA
nb- 14.35: NAWOW
13.00
The four winners have scored at 25/1-8/1-7/1-5/1 with only one of the four favourites having finished in the frame to date. SIR BUMBLE, ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, BRAYBROOKE LADY and DEW DROP INN is my speculative quartet against the field in the circumstances.
13.30
Grand National winning trainer Venetia Williams has hit the ground running now that the proper National Hunt season has started and CARTIER OPERA can be another winner for the yard. The Zilzal gelding showed plenty of tenacity to win at Towcester last time out and though this is a far easier circuit, it's worth noting that the nine-year-old was only narrowly beaten at Wetherby a while ago which suggests that CARTIER OPERA can act around this course to decent effect. PARTICLE and CHICO TIME might offer most resistance close home.
14.00
Donald McCain (junior) has snared two gold and two silver medals via his last six runners at the time of writing whereby BALLABROOK could take the beating. BUREAUCRAT is expected to challenge to serious effect somewhere up the home straight.
14.35
Peter O'Toole is a young jockey going places at a rate of knots and NAWOW is another good ride for the promising pilot. FRIENDS OF TINA and DEVILS CREEK are nominated as potential each way players.
15:05
Nigel Twiston-Davies complicates matters by declaring two horses in this contest though as the trainer has sent out seven winners during the last fortnight, both VIKING BLOND and SAULTY MAX enter my overnight mix. The Stratford bumper winner QUIDEO DE TOUZAINE is the fairly obvious danger to Nigel's pair.
15.35
Giles Hawkins continues to offer decent value for his ten pound claim and CALUSA SHADOW can be the latest horse to take advantage of a positive situation. PEPPERTREE LANE would take the beating at his best but the six-year-old has plenty of miles on his clock and time might already be catching up with the Peintre Celebre gelding. THE JIGSAW MAN is asked to give upwards of seven pounds away all around but as a winner of three of his four races to date (finished second on the other occasion), Nick Schofield's mount cannot be ignored.
16.10
Alan King's raider QUETZAL only finished third in a Uttoxter egg and spoon bumper at the first time of asking but experience could gain the day in the finale. HEAR MY SONG and TALLYHO TARA might prove to be the pick of the five newcomers. I would be inclined to oppose the penalised winner No Principles.
Sandown Racing Tips -- Saturday 07/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.05: CRACK AWAY JACK
nb- 15.20: NAGAM
12.30
Seven-year-olds have won three of the last four renewals and two of this year's three vintage representatives make some degree of appeal, namely LE CORVEE and SCOTS DRAGOON. HOHLETHELONELY completes my trio against the field.
13.05
A fascinating three horse race, even if one of the trio looks to be hoplessly outclassed! CRACK AWAY JACK finished fourth in the Champion Hurdle last term whereby Emma Lavelle's five-year-old should account for Calusa Crystal if adapting to this demanding steeplechase circuit.
13.40
ASHES SUMMER sets a reasonable standard following just the one outing but with Nicky Henderson having won this race back in 2002, the trainer might snare the prize again via his Dalakhani colt ZARINSKY. I particularly take to horses that were still going the right way according to official figures on the level before taking in NH contests, as was the case with ZARINSKY who last ran off a mark of eighty eight. GILDED AGE was the thick end of stone inferior on the level but Alan King has worked miracles before and I wouldn't write off the Cape Cross gelding by any means.
14.10
The vintage stats suggest that the middle four horses in the list should struggle whereby I'll nominate CRUCHAIN (blinkered for the first time), CALUSA CALDERA and PORTERS WAR against the other eight contenders.
14:45
Five-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick and though two of the five vintage representatives might struggle to win, the likes of NEARBY, CALL ME A LEGEND and PICAROON should represent us to good effect.
15.20
The last six winners of this event have carried 11-2 or more and Tony McCoy appears to have come in for a decent ride aboard NAGAM. A winner down the road at Kempton last time out, NAGAM holds a definite chance of 'doubling up' especially as the jockey in question will offer his 'never say die' attitude in the saddle which is worth several lengths over long distance steeplechase events at Sandown. PRESENTANDCORRECT will probably plod around to toteplacepot effect whilst ANY CURRENCY is another to consider from an each way perspective.
15.50
Nicky Henderson appears to hold strong claims in the closing bumper event with both MASTER OF THE HALL and THE WHITE ADMIRAL having been declared. STONEY'S TREASURE did little wrong on his debut in this sector of the sport and Alan King's raider might make experience tell up the stiff home straight.
Southwell Racing Tips -- Friday 06/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.00: PONTING
e/w- 13.00: CAST OF STARS
13.00
The blue colours of Godolphin are doubly represented and the chances of both JUDICIERY and CON ARTIST have to be respected. The Invincible Spirit colt JUDICIERY has been highly tried and as a late (May) foal, further improvement can be anticipated at the third time of asking. If blue is not to be the colour on this occasion, CAST OF STARS appears to be the likeliest party pooper in the line up, especially as three of Ralph Beckett's last seven runners have won, with three others securing toteplacepot positions for good measure during the period.
13.30
STEF AND STEFILIO ran into something of a tartar in Karaka Jack last time out and it was no disgrace to go down fighting against the Mark Johnston representative. That said, the Singspiel colt TERTIARY was a half decent winner on his debut at Brighton which says a lot about hios potential, given that Singspiel stock improve for almost every outing they make. The Godolphin team can celebrate its first winner on the Fibresand surface at Southwell this season, if their two representatives are beaten in the opening juvenile encounter.
14.00
Frederik Tylicky (YEADON) and David Probert (SAFARI CAMP) go head to head here as the claimers title draws to a close with 'Fred' seemingly holding the upper hand in this contest. Both riders could be denied by ANGIES NAP however with the Lion Heart filly attempting the hat trick here following two course victories within the space of a month.
14.30
FEELIN FOXY has failed to put back-to- back victories together to date despite seven successes down the years but this is a first visit to Southwell for the much travelled top weight whereby a 'double first' could be on the cards. A two pound penalty for the recent Wolverhampton victory looks anything but harsh and with a 6/1 quote already sighted, an each way play appears to be the order of the day. LESLEY'S CHOICE is an obvious danger whilst FIGARO FLYER completes my trio against the field.
15:00
PONTING has to be the call given the Ralph Beckett stats (see 13.00 race for details) alongside form stats which jump of the page in the context of this event. VERINCO and POCKET'S PICK can offer most resistance close home.
15.30
HIGHLY REGAL has to be marked down as a mile specialist as all six victories have been gained over the trip whilst the High Chaparral raider also won on his only previous start over this Fibresand surface. That said, SALEROSA has won three of her four starts here at Southwell and though 'only' snaring the silver medal over course and distance last time out, the front pair pulled well clear of their rivals close home. MOUNT HADLEY is nominated as the each way call in the contest.
16.00
A finale to steer clear of in all honesty though if you are contemplating an each way play in this 'dead eight' encounter, you could do worse than consider the likes of WABBRAAN, VAIN BOTELI and STORMY SUMMER I guess.
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Thursday 05/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.45: SAHARA KINGDOM
e/w- 13.10: PHLUKE
13.10
It's just about eighteen months since PHLUKE won a race albeit Eve Johnson Houghton's evergreen eight-year-old invariable becomes involved at the front end of his races at some stage of the relevant events. LOCATION, RESENTFUL ANGEL and COLANGNIK are others to consider.
13.45
A 4/7 chance won the inaugural running of this event last year and Godolphin's Cozzene colt SAHARA KINGDOM looks likely to continue the great run of Saeed Bin Suroor and the team here, albeit at similarly skinny odds. The course and distance winner was impressive in the extreme and though BELLINI ROSE also scored on her debut, the Bertolini filly would do well to beat the April foal, even in receipt of ten pounds. BELLINI ROSE scored over the minimum trip whereby this additional quarter of a mile also poses a question about Tom Dascombe's late foal. SLIP SLIDING AWAY would have to be some individual to give experience away to this field whilst the two horses at the top of the list are pretty much exposed now, albeit they are decent juveniles in their own right.
14.20
Andrew Balding attempted to help David Probert win the claimers title in this event last year but the Kingsclere representative finished second and the jockey will be hoping to go one better aboard Alan Bailey's four-year-old AUTUMN BLADES as the pilot tries to win the prize again. The potential party poopers in the line up include RAVI RIVER and HIGHTIME HEROINE.
14.55
The Acclamation filly EVELYN MAY won well at Kempton on her penultimate start, albeit a decent draw helped the cause on that occasion. Stall seven (of twelve) is not a bad position this time around and with Barry Hills very much producing the best recent percentage figures via the represented handlers, the three-year-old can go close to winning. The main threats appear to be CECILY, CUT THE CACKLE and RIVER KIROV.
15:30
Three-year-olds invariably dominate this type of event and this race will prove no exception. MASTER LIGHTFOOT, TIGHTROPE and SPINNING BALIWICK are likely to produce the winner between them, though I personally would not get involved in the contest.
16.00
It's a crying shame that NED LUDD has not won more than two races as he comes to his fortieth gig which has encompassed both sectors of the sport. It remains to be seen if the six-year-old has retained enough speed to win on the level or if he will need to jump hurdles again to bring about a third victory. Either way, John Portman's each way player looks sure to give a good account of himself for win and place investors. Logically, more likely winners might emerge via the trio of CALCULATING, BENOZZO GOZZOLI and L'HOMME DE NUIT.
Kempton Racing Tips -- Wednesday 04/11/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 21.20: JUST JIMMY
nb- 20.20: SILENT ACT
17.50
Half the field (6/12) can be eliminated if we take the weight stats seriously as all three gold medallists to date carried 9-2 or more. MUFTARRES, MISTER NEW YORK and SUZIE SPENDS should represent the column to good effect.
18.20
Godolphin juveniles just about pick themselves at this moment in time but that said, I much prefer their two-year-olds who have not contested two races without winning. Those are the form figures of MUTAFAJER and though it would considered churlish in the extreme to leave Saeed Bin Suroor's raider out of the mix, I will not be backing the Oasis Dream colt to win if cramped prices are the order of the day. Most resistance might emerge from the likes of KEY LIGHT and FOREST CROWN.
18.50
Four of the six available toteplacepot/each way positions have been secured by horses carrying 9-2 or more (including both winners) whereby my trio against the field consists of CATCHANOVA, UNDERWORLD DANDY and ALFALEVVA. CATCHANOVA would have been offererd as a serious each way play but for his trap two position which tempers enthusiasm to a fashion.
19.20
Horses towards the top of the weights have held the call via the three contests thus far whereby HAVING A BALL, MARMOOQ and FOXTROT ALPHA make it onto my short list. AUSSIE BLUE receives the reserve nomination.
19:50
Three-year-olds can rarely be left out of the equation in these mixed vintage events and the lone junior representative BEAUCHAMP XERXES is no exception to the rule. Godolphin put several spanners in the works by declaring three horses in the race, the pick of which might prove to be AGE OF REASON who boasts 2/2 on all weather surfaces.
20.20
Course and distance winner SILENT ACT receives weight from all six rivals which might tip the balance in favour of the Theatrical filly in a trappy contest. John Best has his team in better form at the time of writing whereby SAPPHIRE PRINCE might provide the biggest threat to the selection.
20.50
Alan Jarvis (MR RIO) and Milton Bradley (OUTER HEBRIDES) are the trainers in form via the collective handlers and both horses could run well at rewarding odds. CHEERY CAT could be a blot on the handicap given his riders claim and the five-year-old is added to the mix.
21.20
David Evans continues to send out winners for fun and stable representative JUST JIMMY is nominated as the each way call in the finale. The trap one position prevents George Baker's mount from being a decent 'get out of trouble' bet but the Ashkalani gelding would be entered in the book for a punt next time out if running well from his bad draw. More logical winners in the circumstances include CALLYBACKEY (11/14) and MISTER JINGLES (13).
Catterick Racing Tips -- Tuesday 03/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.10: CONO ZUR
e/w- 14.40: NORTHERN BOLT
13.40
If Alan Berry is ever going to train a juvenile winner this season (0/108 at the time of writing) this could be the race as the form of HOT ROD MAMMA when running Durham Express to a couple of lengths on her penultimate start would surely take his filly close in this grade/company. That said, CONFESSIONAL and BRIARY MAC are two viable alternatives.
14.10
The late Aanaaba foal CONO ZUR won on his debut and time will tell if his official mark if fair after just one outing. Mark Johnston continues to chase Mick Channon in the Nursery table and the May 29 foal will surely improve for his winning experience at Newcastle. By comparison, TRANSFIXED is contesting her twenty-second race of the campaign and having finished 'in the three' sixteen times already, this five-time winner will produce another consistent effort I'll wager. PROFESSOR JOHN completes my trio against the field.
14.40
Dandy Nicholls has secured two of the last five renewals of this event and NORTHERN BOLT has a definite chance of improving the ratio on behalf of the yard. Horses at the top of the handicap have a good record in the race for good measure and an each way play would be on the cards is the bookmakers were feeling generous on Tuesday morning. The nine represented trainers 'boast' aggregate stats of just 9/118 via their runners in the last fortnight, whereby confidence in their raiders is low. FIVEFOOTNUMBERONE and GRIMES FAITH might offer most resistance to the selection close home.
15.10
The last nine winners have carried weights of 8-12 or more which eliminates the bottom three horses in the handicap if you take the stats seriously. Four-year-olds have won four of the last seven contests and putting the stats and facts together suggests that BORASCO, KASHIMIN and TAMASOU can offer each way investors a decent run for their collective monies.
15:40
Three-year-olds have snared eight of the last nine renewals whereby John Gosden's trio TIME BOOK, BRUTON STREET and TROOPING THE COLOUR are under consideration at the time of writing alongside COTILLION from the William Haggas yard.
16.10
Three and four-year-olds have missed out in the last couple of years but the stats remain solid as the two vintages have won six of the last eight contests between them. BEAT THE SHOWER, NO WONGA and SOUNDBYTE should revert the race back to type.
Kempton Racing Tips -- Monday 2/11/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.30: FAIRYLAND
e/w- 16.10: WESTSTERN
12.50
There are heavy downpours of rain as I write this analysis in the south of the county on Sunday afternoon but that said, Kempton is one of the quickest drying tracks in the country as the course was built of gravel. SLIP should not find conditions too arduous, whilst others to consider include GRATIFICATION and DEPARTED.
13.20
LIKE MINDED represents a group of lucky owners who are headed by the much loved Jim Lewis (aside from his Aston Villa tendencies of course) whereby Ruby Walsh should boot home another winner at the Sunbury venue. QUARTANO is pretty much exposed albeit he is a talented (each way) individual whilst HENRY HOOK is the dark horse in the contest.
13.55
Horses well down the weights have won both renewals to date and SHE'S HUMBLE certainly has a chance off 10-13 whilst SYDEY SLING (11-0) is another to consider. Andrew Turnell has his team in good nick just now (three winners within the last fortnight) and SPANISH CRUISE could be the one to bustle up the two other horses mentioned in dispatches.
14.30
Another of the (Pertemps) handicap hurdle qualifiers and a competitive event into the bargain with the likes of FAIRYLAND, RASLAN and BOUGGLER having been declared. Nicky Henderson has won two of the three renewals thus far and in Fairyland, the popular trainer has a definite chance of improving the ratio.
15:05
A fascinating contest which will no doubt destroy many toteplacepot dreams via its 'win only' status with just four runners having been declared. My self imposed ruling of only being able to nominate one horse is infuriating on this occasion but as a winner on his seasonal debut last season, SIR HARRY ORMESHER just gets the nod over the other three runners.
15.40
The three winners to date have carried weights ranging between 11-4 and 11-8 and I think the 'coincidence' as some readers might view the stats will continue via don't TELL THE WIFE, GOOD HARVEST or SOUTH BANK.
16.10
Horses aged six or less have won the last nine renewals of this finale which is good news relating to the fact that 'younger' runners make up just 57% of the contenders which given the stats on offer, is heartening from a punting perspective. FOREIGN KING, QUANTIQUE and WESTSTERN might serve best on this occasion.
Huntingdon Racing Tips -- Sunday 01/11/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: BARNHILL BROWNIE
nb- 14.20: MISSION CONTROL
13.10
Tom George saddled a winner at Chepstow last weekend whereby stable representative THE DARLING BOY should go well with arguably AOHNA and PARAZAR to beat on this occasion.
13.45
The favourite won the inaugural running of this event last year though if you could name this year's market leader at the time of writing, you are a furlong clear of this particular columnist! ROUSSEA, R'CAM and SATINDRA might serve each way investors best in a tough contest to call.
14.20
MISSION CONTROL came unstuck when attempting a four-timer last time out but his effort was commendable enough and though asked to give plenty of weight away here, Tim Vaughan's four-year-old can be given a chance to return to winning ways. SADLER'S STAR is the alternative selection/forecast option.
14.55
Whilst the Philip Hobbs yard is not is such magnificent form as was the case a few weeks ago, the trainer has still saddled two winners via his last thirteen runners whereby his pair ofrepresentatives HUGUENOT and GENTLE JOHN will be included in my Sunday mix. Nick Gifford would love to win this 'Macer Gifford' event with ROYAL WEDDING and the seven-year-old is not without a chance.
15:35
BARNHILL BROWNIE goes well fresh as his first two victories on his CV confirm and Philip Hobbs has another definite chance of a winner on the card. WYCHWOODS LEGEND is offered up as the tentative danger in receipt of weight from all five rivals.
16.00
Not the type of race to watch if you are attempting to digest Sunday lunch but something has to win this eighteen runner handicap hurdle and my idea of four horses to consider consists of DARING RACER, GOLDEN SQUARE, CHALICE WELCOME and COMPTON STAR. And the very best of luck to you!
Newmarket Racing Tips -- Saturday 31/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.15: BENDED KNEE
nb- 15.10: THRILL
12.20
Big stables win this opening event pure and simple, though favourites have a poor record. Three 20/1 winners have been recorded via the last nine renewals without a winning market leader in sight. My Barry Hills trio against the field is SUNRISE SHUFFLE, AJOOL and COUNTENENCE DIVINE though if the race does not go Barry's way, REVERED is the likeliest gold medallist in the line up.
12.55
This is the second division of the opening race whereby the stats remain the same. SCORN was only beaten a couple lengths on her debut and with John Gosden's juveniles showing better form now, the Seeking The Gold filly is expected to run well. Barry Hills saddles three runners again in the second heat, the pick of which should prove to be PARKVIEW, whilst the Godolphin raider PERFECT NOTE completes my short list.
13.30
It is difficult to look beyond the Godolphin pair given the form of the yard of late, particularly in the juvenile sector. ANHAR and NATURAL LAW are the horses in question and in all honesty, this is not the best 'Zetland' field I have witnessed by any means.
14.05
Although many of you will be drawn towards three-year-olds I'll wager, it's worth noting that just one junior raider has landed the spoils in the last six years. MARVO would be of interest if the forecast rain arrives, though whether the wet stuff will have arrived in time to get into the ground is questionable. Other older horses to consider include SWOP and MARAJAA whilst the pick of the young upstarts could prove to be SECRECY who has also shown winning form on soft ground.
14:35
Three-year-olds have won four of the last six contests and with Godolphin's pair of raiders CITY STYLE and SHAWEEL joined by the unbeaten PRINCE OF DANCE, the trend looks set to continue.
15.10
The last winning favourite scored back in 2001 when 'foot and mouth' was aN unwanted virus of the recent past. Winners have scored at 33/1-25/1-16/1 since that year of discontent and with eleven of the fourteen strong field showing winning form within the trade press form lines, anything could could happen. My speculative trio against an interesting field consists of THRILL, FLIP FLOP and MARIE DE MEDICI.
15.45
It is eight years since a junior raider won this event but that said, both PRINCE SIEGFRIED and LAAHEB hold solid claims to end the unwanted trend. PERKS has been a major disappointment this season but as a horse which revels on soft ground, conditions might offer the four-year-old a chance if the weather forecast proves to be accurate.
16.15
Contrary to the previous event on the card, the finale has been kind to junior raiders as three-year-olds have won five of the last six renewals. I expect the recent sequence to be extended via the likes of BENDED KNEE, REGENERATION, INHERITOR and EDGEWORTH, hoping against hope that all sixteen runners face the starter.
Wolverhampton Racing Tips -- Friday 30/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.50: JUICY PEAR
nb- 20.20: I'MALWAYSRIGHT
18.20
Five-year-old come to the party on a hat trick yet only BIDABLE represents the vintage on this occasion. Stable companion MIGHTY MOVER is a possible danger whilst MAY PARKIN hails from the canny yard of Michael Wigham and the four -year-old could represent some each way value at rewarding odds.
18.50
David Probert is still travelling the length and width of the country in the search of winners to secure his potential claimer's title this year and SUPERSTITIOUS ME should offer the pilot the chance of securing another victory in a race which will not prove difficult to win. MAGROOM makes some appeal at the other end of the weights whilst FORTUNATE BID completes my trio against the field.
19.20
WATCH OUT had a liverner over timber the other week whereby David Probert has another chance of a decent ride in a poor contest. Sir Mark Prerscott has pulled some rabbits out of various hats down the years but the trainer will surely struggle to win even this modest event with Our Last Call whereby PARK'S PRODIGY and PERTEMPTS POWER might give the tentative each way selection WATCH OUT most to do close home.
19.50
Just nine of The Tatling's one hundred and thirty three races have been contested on all weather surfaces. The old timer managed to win two of those nine events however, whereby THE TATLING might have to be aimed at this type of race if the twelve-year-old is to secure a seventeenth victory. GREEN PARK and ORPENINDEED should also become involved towards the business end of proceedings.
20:20
The bottom three horses in the handicap have plenty to do according to the stats as all five winners have carried weights of 8-8 or more to date. Market leaders come to the gig on a four-timer, whilst five of the six favourites have finished in the frame thus far. My trio against the field consists of NIGHT TRADE, I'MALWAYSRIGHT and KOO AND THE GANG.
20.50
Michael Bell's Pyrus gelding JUICY PEAR was beaten less than two lengths on his debut over course and distance three weeks ago and Hayley Turner's mount has definite each way claims at the very least. SURANAM and NEW CHRISTMAS (preferred in that order) might offer most resistance up the home stright.
21.20
A 'dead eight' even to wrap up
proceedings on the horse racing front on Friday and desprately attempting to find a 'bet to nothing' from an each way perspective, I'm currently homing in on MISS EZE, LABISA and FLYING VALENTINO.
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Thursday 29/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.40: APPLE CHARLOTTE
nb- 14.10: ROSIKA
13.10
Not a great race to start the '20th anniversary of Polytrack' meeting but something has to win and my short list consists of LA GIFTED, EXCEED ELEGANCE and COLOMBARD. Good luck!
13.40
With at least five top stables represented in this event, it might prove foolish to stake a wager but punters are punters through and through whereby 'watching briefs' are seldom in evidence if truth be told. Brannagh is a well related and expensive juvenile but warning signs were in evidence first time out via a tardy start and the swishing of the tail when asked to take an interest in proceedings. I prefer the likes of MUREB, LAY CLAIM and GOVERN on this occasion.
14.10
Three-year-olds have won all three renewals to date and there is little (or no) reason to expect the sequence to end this time around. Baila Me is the obvious older danger I guess though I'm happy to rely on junior raiders such as ROSIKA, ARTY CRAFTY and FLAME OF GIBRALTAR to extend the trend.
14.40
A four-year-old stopped a run of three consecutive victories by junior raiders twelve months ago though I expect the race to revert to type here via the likes of APPLE CHARLOTTE, AHLA WASAHL and INTENSE.
15:10
Salient has slipped down to a winning mark now but the five-year-old lacks consistency these days and though I wouldn't be at all surprised if Matty Attwater's Fasliyev gelding won again soon, more logical winners this time around include GLOW STAR, CUMANA BAY and SIROCCO BREEZE.
15.40
We have one defector already in an original field of six and one more non runner would spell trouble for would be toteplacepot investors. Three horses have to be included in case a 'win only' scenario occurs whereby PENTON HOOK, FREE TUSSY and SOME SUNNY DAY are all mentioned in dispatches.
16.10
PADMINI could put Saeed Bin Suroor at the top of Lingfield's juvenile table if Mureb has won the 1.10 event at the Surrey venue. EVENING TALE and FAITED TO PRETEND are likely looking individuals, even if EVENING TALE will come on significantly for the outing as do just about all of Brian Meehan's newcomers.
Musselburgh Racing Tips -- Wednesday 28/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.00: BESTY
e/w- 15.05: INCHNADAMPH
13.00
This is a new meeting at Musselburgh whereby no trends are in place. This amateur riders event is not my cup of tea as regular readers will know. Taking the pilots into consideration more than the equine beasts which have been declared, I'll nominate GRAND DIAMOND, FRENCH ART and VERTIGO ON COURSE against the field.
13.30
Saeed Bin Suroor is sending his runners far and wide in an effort to improve his incredible October tally, particularly in the juvenile sector of the sport. It appears tough on the Cape Cross newcomer INFANTA to make the six hundred mile round trip on her debut, especially as the March foal had an alternative Newmarket option for Saturday on her potential agenda!
TATIANA ROMANOVA is the potential party pooper in the line up.
14.00
A typically tough Edinburgh nursery event to assess though that said, I will be banking on Bryan Smart's juvenile strike rate from last year to to re-emerge on this occasion. As I recall, Bryan snared six winners from eleven runners at Musselburgh at one stage whereby BESTY could be the value for money call here, from an each way perspective at the very least. MICKY'S KNOCK OFF and FAIR BUNNY are offered as speculative dangers in a race which has 'bookmaker's result' stamped all over it.
14.35
FLORENSKY has been declared to
hopefully accompany Infanta (1.30) to the races and a double could be on the cards for the Godolphin team. I'll stick to comments made in the previous race relating to Bryan Smart's Monsieur Bond colt MASTER LEON who if typical of the sire, would like some rain to fall between now and flag fall. Mark Johnston's Hernando newcomer BOWDLER'S MAGIC completes my trio against the other seven contenders.
15:05
CALLISTO MOON has shot up nineteen spots on the radar via his four victories from his last starts on the flat. A recent reversal over timber witnesses a return to 'level action' and it's difficult to envisage the five-year-old finishing out of the frame. ALANBROOKE would be a definite danger on the best of his form whilst old INCHNADAMPH was only beaten two lengths in a York handicap back in July and a repeat of that running would take the nine-year-old close to winning this encounter.
15.40
Before you go latching on to Mick Channon's long trip north with CAPABLE GUEST, it's worth noting that all nine of Mick's Musselburgh runners have been beaten this term.
Five of Mick's six winners at the venue have hailed from juveniles within the yard during the last five years whereby seven-year-old CAPABLE GUEST would be a rare older winner for the trainer at Musselburgh. TRAPHALGAR and BIRKSIDE will be doing their best to attempt to keep the prize on behalf of trainers 'north of Watford'.
16.00
We still await the first winning market leader via three renewals to date and a fourth beaten favourite is on the cards via the fourteen declarations and their general lack of winning form. There is every chance that I could beat this lot home from the furlong marker, though the likes of DIMASHQ, FLORA’S PRIDE and last year’s winner COVERT MISSION would be snapping at my heels likely as not.
16.10
Three and four-year-olds usually get the better of their elders in these 'mixed vintage' affairs and I expect the trend to continue via the likes of PENINSULAR WAR, HAWKEYETHENOO and INGLEBY STAR.
Catterick Racing Tips -- Tuesday 27/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.00: CHOSEN ONE
nb- 14.30: FINAL SALUTE
13.00
All three favourites have been beaten to date (including a 2/5 chance) though the market leaders have secured toteplacepot positions if you want to take that particular avenue. Bookmakers have not had things all their own way however as the three winners were returned at 7/2--6/1--6/1. My trio against the field consists of BRIARY MAC alongside Richard Fahey's pair OLYMPIC CEREMONY and BLUBBER.
13.30
The seven horses at the bottom of the list have plenty of work to do if they are going to become involved at the business end of proceedings according to the stats. All three winners have carried weights of 8-13 or more to date whereby STARBURST, NO WONGA and TROPICAL DUKE are all offered realistic winning chances. David Probert continues to strive to win this year's claimer's title and STARBURST might benefit form this being just her third race of the current campaign.
14.00
The three winners to date have carried weights of 8-10--8-11--8-12. This creates difficulty because should we be looking for horses carrying 8-12 or less or for those burdened with 8-10 or more? I will adhere to the theory that better horses head the weights whereby I'll opt for KILLER CLASS, FIRST BLADE and CHOSEN ONE.
14.30
Providing the 'bounce' factor does not kick in, Bryan Smart's Royal Applause gelding FINAL SALUTE should go one better following a fine silver medal effort at the first time of asking this season. Six furlongs should be spot on given the results of the stock of Royal Applause whose horses excel at the trip as a general rule. NOODLES BLUE BOY and LOVELY THOUGHT are the nominated threats.
15:00
Four-year-olds have won all three renewals and three of this year’s four vintage representatives make some appeal in what appears to be a competitive event on paper. Top billing is given to CARA’S REQUEST over and above TOTO SKYLLACHY and BOY BLUE on this occasion.
15.30
A typical northern staying event whereby horses representing value for money are conspicuous by their absence. The ‘paper favourite’ JACKDAY is the perfect example whereby his realistic price should be 17/2 via two success from nineteen starts, yet punters will be lucky to secure each way odds about the four-year-old. Others to consider if you must have a bet are soft ground winners NO RULES and RED WINE.
16.00
We still await the first winning market leader via three renewals to date and a fourth beaten favourite is on the cards via the fourteen declarations and their general lack of winning form. There is every chance that I could beat this lot home from the furlong marker, though the likes of DIMASHQ, FLORA’S PRIDE and last year’s winner COVERT MISSION would be snapping at my heels likely as not.
16.30
There is no get out of jail free card in the finale as fifteen runners are scheduled to face the starter in a sprint contest which would test the patience of a saint. I’m godly rather than saintly whereby I am being pushed to the limits to nominate SPIRIT OF CONISTON, THE HISTORY MAN and GRUDGE against the field. All three horses have winning form on yielding/soft ground which adds a little confidence which is desperately required.
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Monday 26/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.50: HAJMAH
nb- 14.20: CAVENDISH ROAD
13.20
The top six horses in the nine runner field all possess half decent winning form, notwithstanding the chance of number eight Ramamara who is not without an each way chance. More logical winners in the line up however are RACY, REGENCY ART and MAGNUS THRAX.
13.50
TREASURE TOWN was only beaten three lengths on his debut at Leicester and with the Godolphin juveniles running so well at the time of writing, the King's Best colt has to take centre stage. That said, LIFE AND SOUL is well regarded by Amanda Perrett whereby the Azamour colt could push the selection all the way to the line. Ralph Beckett has already beaten last years gold medal haul via his juveniles and PENANGDOUBLE O ONE could run well at the first time of asking.
14.20
Three-year-olds have won three of the six renewals to date whilst four gold medallists carried weights of 9-4 or more whereby CAVENDISH ROAD is very much the horse to be with as Ryan Moore's mount is one of four horses which possess ticks in both boxes. The main dangers (taking the stats and facts into account) are SPIRITUAL ART and YELLOW PRINTER.
14.50
Three-year-olds have won seven of the last nine renewals of this contest whereby HAJMAH and Mark Johnston's pair AKABEND and SHADY LADY are nominated against the field.
15:20
The two four-year-olds look up against in a race which is high on numbers but short on runners with realistic winning opportunities. My trio against the field consists of MAJOR LAWRENCE, MASSILAH and FIRST SERVICE.
15.50
Three-year-olds have won four of the five renewals to date and the trend is expected to continue via either of the two vintage representatives on this occasion, namely MAY MARTIN and AVRILO. The pick of the older horses on this occasion might prove to be NORTH SOUTH DIVIDE.
16.20
The stats which suggest that three-year-olds have the edge apply to this second division of the previous contest on the card whereby MISSED MONDAYS, CHEERS BIG EARS and EQUINITY will represent yours truly in the finale.
Wincanton Racing Tips -- Sunday 25/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 13.15: SHACKLESBOROUGH
nb- 16.10: PEPE SIMO
13.15
The Presenting gelding SHACKLESBOROUGH represents 'local' trainer Paul Nicholls whereby the bookmakers will be hesitant in assembling the opening price for the five-year-old. Layers have been hit hard and often by raiders from Paul's stable and it will come as no surprise if the Chepstow bumper winner is offered at prohibitive odds. GOLDEN DREAM and SERAPHIM KNIGHT are the fairly obvious dangers.
13.50
Seven-year-olds have won the last three renewals of this event and Bob Buckler's recent Towcester winner BALLYGULLEEN should go well on behalf of the vintage, albeit under softer conditions. The ground dries out quickly on this flat circuit and BALLYGULLEN and the other nine contenders should not have to blow through mud to get home. The chief threats on this occasion might prove to be JACKIE BOY and ABSOLUTE SHAMBLES.
14.25
Five of the last seven winners have carried weights of 11-2 or more whereby the bottom five horses (half the field) have basically been ignored by yours truly though I confess that Alan King's raider Latin Scholar would enter the equation if the four-year-old stripped fit in the paddock. In the meantime, I'll opt for YETHOLM, HUMBLE OPINION and AKRAM.
15.00
Philip Hobbs continues to send out his runners to decent each way effect and both OUT THE BLACK and TEMPLER demand to be included in the mix, especially as five of the last seven gold medallists carried minimum weights of 11-4. FAIR POINT would enter calculations if the rain was heavier than has been forecast via his Taunton victory on heavy ground though at the time of writing, I marginally prefer KILCREA ASLA.
15:35
Six-year-olds filled the forecast places in the inaugural running of this race twelve months ago when vintage representatives accounted for just twenty eight per cent of the field. LOCAL PRESENT, COLONIAL JIM and the recent Fontwell winner COMMAND MARSHAL should represent the vintage to decent effect. The pick of the other raiders in this twenty one runner handicap event is LUCKY PEARL according to the gospel of yours truly.
16.10
PEPE SIMO proved that he can handle yeilding ground when winning his bumper at Taunton before going on to finish ninth in the Championship race at the Cheltenham Festival back in March. This race should be his for the taking if the Victory Note gelding follows in the footsteps of so many horses who go on from that event to record decent careers. HENRY KING beat the selection at Newbury on his debut but finished well adrift of the Nicholls representative on his subsequent start at Prestbury Park. KING OF LEON looks booked for third spot on this occasion.
Newbury Racing Tips -- Saturday 24/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.35: CLOWANCE
e/w- 15.10: LA ADELITA
13.30
Saddler's Wells stock like to get their hooves into the ground as a general rule and the potential going should be perfect for Sir Michael Stoute's April foal TOTAL COMMAND to give of his best at the second time of asking. SIR PITT and MULTAMES both ran well enough on their respective debuts to suggest that a race of this nature is within their capabilities.
14.05
BURNETT won on yielding ground at the first time of asking which gives the Godolphin representative the marginal call over PASTORAL PLAYER and Harry Findlay's impressive Newmarket winner INLER. PASTORAL PLAYER refused to go into the stalls on what should have been his second outing following a very impressive debut victory at Newbury.
14.35
Four-year-olds have won three of the last four renewals of this St Simon Stakes and vintage representatives come into the contest on a hat trick. CLOWANCE is an interesting runner on the projected ground, whilst MERCHANT OF DUBAI and ALL THE ACES are also included in the overnight mix. The pick of the other contenders might prove to be the recent soft ground course winner TASTAHIL, though the conditions of this event suit HIGH HEELED down at the bottom of the list.
15.10
Three-year-olds have won both renewals to date and GLEN MOLLY and Michael Bell's LA ADELITA (making her belated seasonal debut) make some appeal in an interesting contest. Others to peruse include OCEAN TRANSIT and SHANGANI.
15:45
Barry Hills has won this race three times in the last eight years and his recent good to soft Windsor winner ZA ZA ZOOM will have to improve to become competitive in this line up. That said, this anorak will include ZA ZA ZOOM in the mix alongside PIPETTE, JACQULINE QUEST and my each way speculative selection FONTLEY.
16.20
Three experienced runners make most appeal in this contest, namely BLISSFUL MOMENT, COUNT OF ANJOU and DOMINATION. Hughie Morrison's last named raider was the only one of the three to run under yielding conditions, experience which will serve the Motivator colt well. Motivator won his first three races under such conditions which also makes for positive reading.
16.55
The last eight renewals have been won by three and four-year-olds whereby the five older runners have been given the elbow my yours truly. The last six winners have carried weights of 9-0 or less and putting the stats and facts together, a short list of NAMIBIAN ORATOR, DR LIVINGSTONE, SOHCAHTOA and SPELL CASTER emerges. The last named raider would have been the call from a win perspective had soft ground not been in the offing.
17.25
Regular readers will know that these amateur races fail to light my pilot but I appreciate others will possess different opinions and CAPABLE GUEST, ARCTIC CAPE and RUDRY WORLD might serve such people best on this occasion.
Fakenham Racing Tips -- Friday 23/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.45: BUSKER ROYAL
e/w- 16.20: CHALICE WELCOME
14.00
This opening event reverted to type last year as five-year-old North Walk became the fourth vintage winner in the last five years. The pick of the quartet of five-year-olds on this occasion should prove to be PETROGLYPH and PENNYROCK, whilst ROYALTEA and DIRECTOR'S CHAIR complete my mix against the field.
14.35
The world and his dog are aware that COOL ROXY (winner of this race on each of the last two occasions) is the old kid on the block here as the Environment Friend gelding has gained no less than eleven of his twelve successes at this venue. Only cynical racegoers will back against Chris Honour's mount though if the twelve-year-old is to be beaten, SPROSSER in the likeliest suspect on these terms.
15.10
Trainers are baffling yours truly again as this contest has been won by five and six-year-olds for the last seven years, yet only the moderate Renege The Joker represents the two vintages on this occasion. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that SHUT THE BAR (perish the thought) and BAILY STORM should fight out the finish.
15.45
All three favourites have been beaten to date via two renewals which attracted a total of nine runners. That said, two 5/2 shots have scored to date whereby the bookmakers have not had things all their own way. Nicky Henderson saddled a popular winner the other day as one of my favourite trainers returned from his well documented exile and BUSKER ROYAL should go close to winning. Barry Geraghty takes the ride, just as the Irish pilot did last year when the selection scored on his seasonal debut in a better race than this at Ascot. ELEAZAR is a worthy opponent and no mistake.
16:20
Six-year-olds have won four of the last six renewals yet just one vintage representative has been declared, namely CHALICE WELCOME. Alex Merriam's mount also qualifies via the weight stats as eight of the last nine gold medallists carried 11-3 or less, whereby SAGARICH and SIR QUIGLEY are offered up as speculative types to include in toteplacepot wagers.
16.50
Whichever way you look at this disappointuing event, the contender are horses that flatter to deceive on a regular basis and I can only offer the tentative trio of CHAPEL FLOWERS. TOI EXPRESS and FEELING PECKISH against the field.
17.20
Anyone who watched the bumper event at Worcester on Wednesday would need no reminding that stakes should be kept to a minimum at this time of year. Jonjo O'Neill introduced a £160,000 three-year-old purchase and the horse barely got out of a gallop when beaten within the first mile of the contest. BRACKLOON HIGH, PURE ANTICIPATION and RESTER VRAI might serve best if you must consider having a wager.
Kempton Racing Tips -- Thursday 22/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.50: GOOD GORSOON
e/w- 19.20: POYLE MEG
17.50
The official figures suggest that ZELOS DREAM, POINT TO PROVE and FASILIGHT are ahead of the opposition on these terms and in such a poor event, this might be the best route to take in search of the winner. The respective draw positions of nine (twelve runners), eight and four represent reasonable positions given the poor results at Kempton in sprint races when horses are house in the three outside stalls.
18.20
John Best has enjoyed a return to some sort of form of late whereby his Newmarket runner up CHAT DE LA BURG should raise the profile of the trainer still further. LEXI'S LAYLA and KEY ART are each way horses to consider given their 'one pace' factors inside the final furlong.
18.50
GOOD GORSOON (4/11) is hardly the most consistent horse in the contest but that said, few of these opponenets would have as much ability beneath the saddle, albeit the Barry Hills raider keeps plenty for himself! More logical winners drawn nearer the fence include ROYAL INTRUDER (10) and STEP IT UP (11).
19.20
In terms of percentages, Ralph Beckett is very much the in form trainer in this contest whereby POYLE MEG has to be considered despite the trade press price of 14/1. The Dansili filly has secured silver and bronze medals via just two all weather starts to date and an each way wager is definitely in the offing. The biggest dangers on this occasion might prove to be FORMULA and AL QUEDDAAF.
19:50
The Gone West colt MUZO can build on his fourth placed Wolverhampton debut in a race which should not prove difficult to win. Mark Johnston has acquired KING'S SALUTE which makes for interesting reading, whilst SHUBBAAN completes my trio against the field.
20.20
Sir Michael Stoute invariably finishes the season to better effect than earlier in the year and RAWAAJ can go close in a competitive three-year-old handicap event. Others to consider include RAMORA and DEMEANOUR, though this is more a watching brief than a contests on which to place a wager.
20.50
BOLD MARC (14/14 in this seven furlong contest) makes as much appeal as any other horse, whilst others seemingly well drawn to consider include YANKEE STORM (11) and BERBICE (10). ZERO MONEY would have been included in the the mix but for his trap five draw.
21.20
Kempton is seemingly suffering in trying to attract punters to the course but with 'greyhound events' like the last three events on this card, the public cannot be blamed for steering clear of the venue. Rightly or wrongly, punters have long since attended racecourses with one eye on the 'getting out stakes' towards the end of the card, but how could you envisage getting out of jail at this meeting if attempting to chase losses? Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that SHAM SHEER, REACTION and CLASSICALLY should run well for collective speculative investments.
Kempton Racing Tips -- Wednesday 21/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.20: AVRILO
nb- 18.50: SATWA GOLD
17.50
Low numbers will be inconvenienced again in this Kempton sprint I'll wager and it's worth noting that the horse drawn in 1/12 has already been withdrawn, not that there is anything untoward relating to the non runner you understand! Upwards and onwards in positive mode by suggesting that BEYOND THE CITY (12), BLUE NEPTUNE (7) and CAOL ILA (an Irish malt whisky--9) should give readers a decent run for their collective monies with no excuses being offered for defeat owing to the draw if that scenario occurs. The pick of the low drawn runners might prove to be COOKIE GALORE.
18.20
Five-year-olds have won both renewals to date and this self confessed anorak suggests that both vintage representatives SPOOF MASTER (12/12) and BEST ONE (7) can run well from an each way perspective in this five furlong dash. AVRILO (10) is also well berthed for a horse which has shown consistent form this season.
18.50
SATWA GOLD has been returned in double figures in each of his six races to date and can double his winning tally for trainer Ed Dunlop in a disappointing event. A three-year-old won the inaugural contest a year ago which makes for good reading and also brings the likes of THE DIAL HOUSE and SIXTIES SWINGER into the equation.
19.20
Four-year-olds have kept the junior raiders in their place via the two contests to date whereby HOLDEN EAGLE can be fancied to land the hat trick on behalf of the 'old timers'. Three-year-olds often hold the edge in these mixed vintage affairs and you can bet that COUNT OF TUSCANY and STORMING SIOUX won't go down without some sort of fight.
19:50
AKAMON (drawn 7/12) can only improve for time and experience being by Monsun but this is not the strongest of races and Ed Dunlop could do with another juvenile winner to add to his moderate tally of seven (via eighty eight runners) this season. ALINGHI (9) will probably need the outing (much like the majority of Richard Hannon juveniles) which suggests that HULCOTE ROSE can also become competitive at the business end of the contest.
20.20
Only nineteen of the sixty two favourites (30.6%) have won relating to juvenile events at Kempton this season via fifty eight races (32.8%). The advice is to tread carefully in the last juvenile event on the card, especially with three potentially decent newcomers in the field, namely OCEAN CLUB (8/11), JULIENAS (10) and WHITLEY BAY (4). The trio are listed in order of preference albeit mostly on account of the draw.
20.50
Just one renewal to draw from but once again, a high drawn winner emerged (fourteen--via thirteen runners) whilst the first three horses carried weights of 9-3 or less. Putting the stats and facts together produces a short list of CLASSIC DESCENT (13/13), TOTO SKYLLACHY (12) and ARACHNAPHOBIA (11) on this occasion.
21.20
Just three pounds separate the fourteen runners and if that doesn't make you consider reducing your stakes, then nothing will. My speculative and tenative trio against the field consists of TYRANA, JUST JIMMY and COPPER KING.
Lingfield Racing Tips -- Tuesday 20/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.00: FREQUENCY
nb- 17.30: MY LES
14.00
William Buick is on the crest of a wave at present having won the big race in Canada for Mick Channon on Saturday. William has ridden two winners for trainer John Hills via just eleven rides and the pair team up here with LOUISANA GOLD. John doesn't saddle too many winners in the juvenile sector (two this year to date--three last season) but his March foal has a definite chance to equal last year's total on behalf of the yard in this event. The main dangers include MERCHANT OF MEDICI and REDDY TO STAR.
14.30
It's amazing what a big race victory can do for a jockey as William Buick is currently finding out, having been given another winning chance abaord GIFTED APAKAY following his opportunity aboard Lousiana Gold in the opening Lingfield contest. William has only ridden for Ed Dunlop on five occasions to date but suddenly another chance comes up on the radar! PAN AMERICAN ans SUNRISE are the likeliest partry poopers in this event.
15.00
Amanda Perrett was waxing lyrical about her Namid colt LAGO INDIANO earlier in the season, and though I failed to give Amanda's well fancied runner a mention in the opening race on Lingfield's card, I could fancy this March foal to run well at the first time of asking. That said, FREQUENCY endured severe traffic problems on his debut and any amount of improvement could be forthcoming from Ed Dunlop's Starcraft colt whilst few jockeys negotiate the Lingfield track as well as Eddie Ahern. Another (Newmarket) debutante HOT FORM completes my trio against the field.
15.30
The three horses which are best treated in this event according to the official figures are ROMANTIC QUEEN, BOHO CHIC and KING'S SABRE and in the absence of any other help, I'll opt for this trio on this occasion.
16:00
PERFECT ACT flatters to deceive more often than West Ham United whereby I'll take the 'paper favourite' on with the likes of SISTER CLEMENT, KYLLACHY STORM and SONG OF PRAISE, though funds will be safely held under lock and key.
16.30
The three winners to date have carried weights of 9-0 or more which enables yours truly to make the easy decision of nominating this year's three qualifiers MASTER LIGHTFOOT, POPPANAN and LOVE YOU LOUIS against the field. If only all races were as easy as this to assess!
17.00
The reverse scenario is true in this event, whereby horses carrying 9-0 or less appear to have the edge compared to the weight stats in the previous event. Unfortunately, eight qualifiers are in the mix this time around, the pick of which could prove to be DIKTALINA, ARABIAN SILK and FANTASY RIDE.
17.30
Three-year-old carrying less than 9-1 have won all three renewals to date and MY LES and CHAMPAGNE FIZZ definitely hold decent chances to extend the unbeaten run on behalf of the vintage. GIANT SEQUOIA fails both trend tests but his chance is there for all to see via the formbook.
Windsor Racing Tips -- Monday 19/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.30: JESSICA HAYLLAR
nb- 14.00: ADVENTURE STORY
14.00
ADVENTURE STORY was allowed to drift on her debut but that is nothing new for a Richard Hannon newcomer which is expected to make great progress between the first and second outings. With the trainer relentlessly closing in on a hundred juvenile winners in the season, Hannon has a fine chance of saddling his eleventh two-year-old winner at the alternative royal venue, espeically as the Bold Edge filly has draw 15 (of 16) on what should be good ground. HOT PURSUITS (11) and PINNACLE LAD (12) are expected to push the filly all the way to the line.
14.30
One of the five three-year-olds in the line up won last year's inaugural running of this contest and KINGSWINFORD (14/15), DESERT STRIKE (15) and RETRO (9) should all figure prominently on behalf of the junior vintage. MANGO MUSIC (10) receives the reserve nomination.
15.00
Gary Moore saddled his second juvenile winner of the season the other day and OASIS JADE can quickly add to the tally from her ideal 14/14 draw. The ground should have dried out sufficiently for the field to remain on the stands side of the course this week whereby the draw has a significant effect on potential results. Others poised to take advantage of their 'numbers luck' include PURSUIT OF GOLD (13) and (to a lesser degree) GIULIETTA DA VINCI (6). BONHEURS ART (1) would have been the call had the ground been as soft as last week's fixture but not too many winners score from trap one under decent conditions.
15.30
It's impossible to rule out a Richard Hannon raider at Windsor with a fortunate draw of 13/14, even though REACH FOR THE SKY has work to do according to the form book. More logical winners in my book include MASKED DANCE (8) and GREEK KEY (9) whilst JESSICA HAYLLAR (11) could run well at the projected trade press price of 16/1.
16:00
Large fields are the order of the day at Windsor which is nothing new at this time of year as trainers desperately attempt to win races to ensure that owners remain loyal to the yard. Let's hope that all sixteen runners stand their ground in this handicap contest as that fourth place position could be crucial in such a competitive event. My speculative quartet against the field is CHARLOTTE POINT, WHOOSKA, SPECIAL RESERVE and LADY BRORA. The first three horses named are three-year-olds, the vintage which has won three of the last four renewals of this race.
16.30
Just five three-year-olds contested this race in a fourteen strong line up twelve months ago as junior raiders swept the board when returned at 5/1-8/1-16/1. Six of thirteen runenrs this year hail from the junior vintage and the pick of those representatives might prove to be SAPPHIRE PRINCE, COMPTON BLUE and FORTUNATE BID.
17.00
This is the second division of the previous race on the card whereby the positive three-year-old stats (albeit via only one renewal to date) remain in place. FLYING SILKS, JEWELLED and SECRET HERO should be the trio of three-year-olds to home in on this time around.
17.30
Horses carrying weights of 9-2 or more filled the win and place positions in the first running of this contest twelve months ago and with nothing else to work with, my tentative trio consists of FANTINO, CATCHMEIFYOUCAN and KYLE OF BUTE.
Fontwell Racing Tips -- Sunday 18/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.30: CALUSA CALDERA
e/w- 14.00 ROBIN DES BANK
14.00
The (5/2) favourite won the inaugural running of this contest twelve months ago and it's worth noting that the first three horses home carried weights of 11-0 or more. Hardly a trend I grant you but with little else to work with, I will offer up ROBIN DES BANK, LITTLE FIRECRACKER, AVOINE and DIAMANPEG against the field, given that sixteen runners (hopefully) line up in this handicap event.
14.30
Philip Hobbs appears to have targeted an event to winning effect as the recent Ffos Las winner CALUSA CALDERA should concede weight all around given the standard of opposition. DONT TELL THE WIFE is preferred to Call Me Sam as the main danger to the selection.
15.00
Evan Williams saddled an odds on winner in the first running of this contest last year and but for the participation of THERE'S NO PANIC, I could have envisaged a similar outcome for stable representative BLACKTOFT. Horseshoe Reef and Lady De La Vega should fight out the finish for the bronze medal.
15.35
Only Laustra Bad (of the seven runners) has failed to register a recent success via the trade press form figures but even then, trainer David Pipe saddled Cheltenham's first winner this season on Friday at odds of 20/1! More obvious winners in the line up include COMMEMORATION DAY and SHAKE THE BARLEY, though nothing is set in stone at the time of writing.
16.10
I can't fancy the bottom four horses in the field which recudes this to a 'dead eight' event from my viewpoint, whereby SENOR SHANE, ROYAL KICKS and TARATEENO are selected from an each way (bet to nothing) perspective.
16.45
Top of the ground conditions remain in evidence whereby horses towards the top of the weights should prevail which in this instance includes the likes of THURSDAY'S KNIGHT, NAWOW and ZORRO DE LA VEGA.
17.20
The Presenting mare MOONLIGHT RUBY held an option to run at Carlisle on Thursday but Nigel Twiston-Davis would have been hard pressed to convince owners to take in that long journey given the standard of opposition here. FLEMISH FANCY and MADAME JASMINE are other newcomers to consider given that the seven experienced runners have failed to impress to date, even taking the Worcester winner ALVERSTONE into account.
Cheltenham Racing Tips -- Saturday 17/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.40: PICTURE THIS
nb- 15.50 DIABLO
14.05
This is a case of considering fitness against potential class horses whereby the Paul Nicholls raider CLASSIC SWAIN comes up against STARLUCK and SILK HALL. STARLUCK didn't need too much tuning up last year and Timmy Murphy's mount is a star in the making.
14.40
A reverse scenario in this event, as it is the Paul Nicholls horse PICTURE THIS that has to prove his fitness against recent winning types such as BILLIE MAGERN and RISK. BADDAM has also been successful of late but Robert Thornton's mount might be run out of this particular finish.
15.15
Six-year-olds have won three of the last four renewals and only Paul Nicholls (no surprise there) has seemingly been aware of the opportunity for POQUELIN whereby attention to detail could gain the day. The major threats might prove to be MOUNT BENGER and WATCH MY BACK. All three horses go on fast ground and even fifteen million gallons of water during the summer/autumn have failed to allow conditions to soften up at Prestbury Park!
15.50
Three of the last eight Nigel Twiston-Davis runners have won at the time of writing and having saddled the winner of this race twice in recent years, DIABLO should run well on behalf of the yard. JUST AMAZING and KING TROY are the fairly obvious dangers.
16.25
The last five winners have carried weights of 11-2 or less and FACTOTUM might be worth another chance after failing on his handicap bow back in mid-summer. MOONWALKING and RIGHT OPTION are two consistent types right down at the bottom of the handicap to consider at potentially rewarding odds.
17.00
From a toteplacepot perspective I would simply include all four runners in my permuatation and retire to the bar, hoping for a bookmaker's result to ensue. Having to nominate the winner for this column is far more taxing, though RED ADMIRAL marginally gets the call over Kangaroo Court on this occasion.
17.35
An interesting closing bumper event which might take plenty of winning. I would take even money if layers were to offer me the odds for the winner to score by less than three lengths, thoguh which horse that might be is another matter entirely. I tentatively call on START ME UP, SHERIFF HALL and MISS OVERDRIVE to represent yours truly.
Potential 'outsiders' outsiders to consider at Newmarket:
13.50: OUQBA
14.25: DICK TURPIN and AWESOME ACT
15.00: NEVER ON SUNDAY
15.40: AJAAN (each way bet of the day)
16.15: DUBAWI HEIGHTS and CHAMPAGNELIFESTYLE
Cheltenham Racing Tips -- Friday 16/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.50: CRYSTAL ROCK
nb- 16.05 PARSONS LEGACY
14.20
The last eight winners have carried weuights of 11-4 or less whilst five-year-olds have gained victories in three of the last five seasons. MCMURDO SOUND, FAIRYLAND and CALATAGAN are nominated against the field given the stats in place, though if there is to be a party pooper in the line up, WEATHER FRONT surely fits the bill.
14.55
SNAP TIE remains a horse of decent potential even at five years of age. That said, RIPPLING RING has to be considered a major threat given the form of the Paul Nicholls runners at Chepstow on Saturday. Without a subsequent runner, Paul secured two medals of each colour via just seven runenrs on the card.
15.30
As we're warned of winter weather on the horizon, our thoughts turn to spring at the Cheltenham Festival via this 'Pertempts' qualifier. IROQUOIS WARRIOR, ELZAHANN and AIMIGAYLE are my trio against the field though in my view, it's far too early in the season to have trial races for events which are contested in March.
16.05
PARSONS LEGACY won this event last year before failing to finish the course on his only two subsequent outings. A four-time seasonal debut winner, the Philip Hobbs raider has definite claims in a field which has flattered to deceive all too often. MALJIMAR was 'mugged' on the line by the Tony McCoy ridden Wichita Lineman which was one of the highlights (though not for connections) of the entire festival. BOYCHUK is more than capable of winning a race of this nature and the nine and six pounds concession from the afore mentioned top weights will surely bring the eight-year-old into contention over the final couple of fences.
16.40
Three odds on winners have emerged during the last decade and with Evan Williams having won the race twelve months ago, the double is surely on the cards via BARIZAN who attempts a four-timer here with Tony McCoy in the saddle.
17.15
Seven of the nine winners during the last decade have carried weights of 11-3 which brings seven horses into play if you take the stats seriously. My trio from the 'superior' section of the weights consists of PRESENT GALE, MISTER APPLE'S and GAORA LANE.
17.50
THE JIGSAW MAN appears to have a favourite's chance though the declaration of Nicky Henderson's CRYSTAL ROCK makes for interesting reading, especially with Barry Geraghty in the plate. The Rock Of Gibraltar gelding reached a mark of eighty three on the level and was still progressing which makes for a pleasant change when horses careers are re-routed to the NH code of racing. Three of the last eight Twiston-Davies runners have won and RELAND can secure a cheque of some desciption for connections.
Nottingham Racing Tips -- Thursday 15/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.10: TROOPINGTHECOLOUR
e/w- 16.10: PINNACLE LAD
14.10
Godolphin have snared nine gold, two silver and two bronze medals via their last sixteen runners which suggests that their Shamardar colt SABOTEUR will take the beating. High on numbers but potentially short on class, this race should not take a great deal of winning and the March foal is the obvious call. COUNTLESS COMET also represents a trainer/jockey in form and could be worth watching for future potential wagers, whilst John Gosden has his juveniles running much better now whereby IDEALISM could also make the judge call out his number at the end of the opening contest.
14.40
PULLYOURFINGEROUT was Brendan Powell's first ever winner in the juvenile sector from well over one hundred attempts whereby the Indian Haven colt will have a special place in the trainer's heart from here on in. It's worth noting that Kieren Fallon retains the ride and the combination could click again providing the March foal can handle softer conditions to winning effect. The only two other horses in the seventeen strong line up with 'recent' winning form have scored on all weather surfaces which does not make this race easy to assess. My trio to accompany the selection in this two-year-old handicap consists of CHAIRMAN PAT, PASTELLO and ROGRIGO DE FREITAS.
15.10
TROOPINGTHECOLOUR ran two fine races in defeat in mid-summer and now that John Gosden's team are running better again, a victory looks to be on the cards. Nicky Mackay end a spell in the 'cold sector' at Windsor on Monday and another decent ride aboard TIME BOOK could be coming his way. Luca Cumani's Galileo colt is the each way call though I guess a more logical danger to the selection from a win perspective is COUNTRY ROAD who will be sporting the popular colours of Michael Tabor.
15.40
Horses carrying weights of 9-2 or more filled the placings in last year's inaugural event and whilst one race hardly sets a 'trend', this anorak will be true to his tendencies by nominating ALCALDE, ELLA, BOTHY and GALA CASINO STAR against the other twelve contenders in this handicap event.
16.10
There was plenty of money (at big prices) for PINNACLE LAD at Bath earlier in the season and the debutant ran well for a long way on that occasion. Five subsequent efforts have yielded just one silver (Beverley) medal but I haven't forgotten the market plunge in the west country earlier in the season and I'll wager there is a race in the Titus Livius gelding. Whether the February foal is up to beating a horse like HORSERADISH is another matter entirely, whilst the Choisir newcomer GOJERI comes here instead of Pontefract next Monday which is an interesting Michael Jarvis decision.
16.40
Richard Fahey won a juvenile race on the card last year and his Dixieland Band colt LAYLA'S LAD is not without a chance of scoring at the first time of asking in this grade. It is hardly surprising that Richard has saved this 'baby' until late in the seasonal given his extremely late (May 28) foaling date but the 'Layla' horses have been running well of late and this could be another decent raider off the production line. JOZAFEEN (arguably) sets the moderate standard whilst DORMER FLEET can only run better here than was the case on his Kempton debut.
17.10
A really tough puzzle to solve with just seven pounds separating the seventeen runners in this three-year-old handicap. My tentative quartet against the field consists of CAWDOR, DUBAI LEGEND, CAPTAIN SCOOBY and REJECT. Good luck!
17.40
Eight pounds separates the seventeen runners in this mixed vintage handicap which is arguably more taxing than the previous race on the card! Five-year-olds have won the two renewals to date and LORD OF THE REINS is the pick of the two vintage representatives on this occasion. CHOSEN ONE, JILLY WHY and HALF A CROWN are added to the mix.
Kempton Racing Tips -- Wednesday 14/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.20: WINTERFELL
e/w- 20.50: SECRET WITNESS
17.45
With just two winning form lines to show for their last seventy nine collective performances (trade press offerings), it is difficult to work up much enthusiasm for this event. The tentative trio of FANTASY RIDE, LITTLE SARK and MEDIEVAL MAIDEN are offered up accordingly.
18.20
Four-year-olds have won both renewals to date though this year's vintage representatives (Black Stocking and Hardanger) look out of their depth in all honesty. Three-year-olds will never have a better opportunity of securing the prize I'll wager and the pick of the twelve representatives might prove to be HIGHLAND STARLIGHT, WINTERFELL and CHROMATIC on this occasion.
18.50
The Red Ransom colt DAHAAM has found one too good for him on both starts to date though it might be a case of third time lucky for the March foal. John Gosden's newcomer MIDFIELDER might be the party pooper this time around however, as the Smart Strike raider was also entered up in a better looking event at Newmarket at the end of the week whereby John fancied taking the Godolphin representative on by the look of things. The Cape Cross colt CHRISTMAS COMING wasn't beaten far on his debut here and the additional furlong should help his cause.
19.20
A race for disappointing types in general even though horses with plenty of natural ability line up in the fourteen stong field. Getting the best out of the said beasts is often easier said then done whereby I can only offer a tentative trio against the field, namely MASWERTE, CHAPTER AND VERSE and LAUDATORY.
19.50
Official figures suggest that LADY PATTERN, KIRSTY'S BOY and SIX WIVES have plenty going for them under the terms and conditions of this two-year-old claiming event and who am I to argue?
20.20
Nursery events where just four pounds separate the top and bottom horses in the handicap are a nightmare to unravel in general terms and this race is no exception. LOVE MATCH, DREAM NUMBER and PEPI ROYAL should all go close whilst Kieren Fallon is an eye catching booking aboard KATE SKATE whereby Gay Kelleway's Mark Of Esteem filly receives the reserve nomination.
20.50
Horses carrying weights of 9-2 or more secured four of the first five positions (including the forecast placings) in last year's inaugural event. Although one race hardly represents a trend, there is precious little else to work with on this occasion whereby the likes of LEVERAGE, SECRET WITNESS and TOTO SKYLLACHY are all offered a chance, especially with the bottom five horses all having been eliminated via my anorak tendencies.
21.20
A desperate finale in all honesty and the advice is basically not to chase losses if you are behind on the day. There is always tomorrow. If you must have a bet, the likes of MALAPROPISM, FANTASY FIGHTER and BEST ONE might serve best.
Newcastle Racing Tips -- Tuesday 13/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.45: REVERED
nb- 15.45: BAWARDI
13.50
The Dubawi filly DEIRDRE was not allowed to go off at too big a price (6/1) at the first time of asking which is relevant when perusing John Gosden newcomers. Beaten just three lengths and a spit in a fourteen runner maiden event at Kempton when finishing fifth, Deirdre will come on for the experience and will go close in a race which should not prove difficult to win. WOODFORD BELLE was (coincidentally) beaten by the same distance first time up on the heath and Brian Meehan's Arch filly is another horse to consider, possibly alongside the Godolphin newcomer ADDAHAB.
14.20
Godolphin's Dynaformer colt BURNETT retains an entry in next year's Epsom Derby and though a victory is not a pre-requisite for that particular contest, connections will be hoping that the March colt will make a winning debut. SIR PITT is very well thought of back on the John Gosden ranch and though the trainer has not (and will not) rush his junior raider, it is nonetheless significant that John has sent the Tiger Hill raider on a long journey first time up. PYTHEAS will (no doubt) find at least one too good for him again whilst picking up a small cheque for connections.
14.50
All three favourites have finished in the frame to date (one winner) whilst win and placed horses have been well served by high numbers. That said, even jockeys are unaware of which side holds the advantage down the straight track at Newcastle from meeting to meeting, whereby it simply does not do to take anything for granted. MILTON OF CAMPSIE (15/17) attempts a four-timer with Kieren Fallon in the plate whilst others (across the track) to consider include BLOWN IT (17), SEA SALT (11) and JOHN KEATS (4).
15.20
Over forty per cent of the field is eliminated from the mix if you take the weight stats seriously. All three winners have carried 8-13 or more whereby the bottom seven runners could be left out of the equation. The pick of the remaining ten runners might prove to be JUST SAM, NOODLES BLUE BOY, INGLEBY ARCH and RISING SHADOW in this seventeen runner handicap (four places at the time of writing).
15.50
Three-year-olds have won all three contests to date, and with eight of the thirteen runners representing the vintage this time around, the trend looks set to continue. Alan Swinbank has his team in good order and QUICK GOURMET could go well for the stable. The other two junior raiders completing my trio against the field are ASTRODIVA and GOSFORTH PARK.
16.20
We have no trends to work with in this new event on the card so let's hope that all sixteen runners face the starter as anticipated. The scenario offers yours truly four chances and the quartet consists of PUY D'ARNAC, OUTLAND, SIMONSIDE and the recent Ripon winner UNAWATUNA.
16.50
Regular readers will know the score relating to this amateur event whereby yours truly takes more notice of the pilots than the equine stars. My tentative trio against the field given the circumstances is GRANDAD BILL, RUDRY WORLD and FRONT RANK.
17.20
This is the second division of the previous amateur event and my threesome against the field consists of MEHENDI, PATAVIUM and FIRESTORM. The last named runner is offered from an each way perspective.
Salisbury Racing Tips -- Monday 12/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.45: REVERED
nb- 15.45: BAWARDI
13.35
Richard Fahey continues to send out winners for fun (four of Richard's last ten runners have won) and with sorties aimed at the south of the country today, LAYLA'S BOY cannot be ignored from a toteplacepot/each way perspective, even though there are more logical winners in the line up. Two of the likelier scorers are INSIDE TRACK and DONNA ELVIRA.
14.10
The Barathea filly FLOUNCING was beaten less than two lengths on her Kempton debut and William Haggas has found a fine opportunity for the February filly to go one better. February foals still lead the way in the juvenile sector this season and with Michael Hills in the saddle, FLOUNCING can add to their number. SOUL STATION and SABATINI are the each way alternative selections.
14.45
As a sister to Visit, the Oasis Dream filly REVERED might take the beating, even at the first time of asking as Visit was beaten just a head on her debut before scoring next time out in the 'Princess Margaret' at Ascot. OPERA GAL and SHIMMERING MOMENT have experience on their side should they be close enough to contest the finish.
15.15
The ground should be drying out fast enough for LOST HORIZON to take her chance here, having improved markedly at the second time of asking following an ordinary debut performance here at Salibury under soft conditions. Better ground definitely aided her cause at Newbury and I just hope the going does not remain tacky on what is forecast to be a drying day. Should conditions go against the Elusive City filly, NADDWAH and QARAABA might take advantage to best effect.
15.45
BAWAARDI could turn out to be 'thrown in' here if the handicapper has erred following a tenacious victory at Lingfield on his belated three-year-old debut (gelded in the meantime) after a tardy start having also endured 'traffic problems' throughout the contest. The Acclamation gelding might have most to fear from the likes of LAURIE GROVE and Alan Swinbank's Wolverhampton debut winner MR RAINBOW.
16.20
Tom Dascombe is enduring a poor run of form at present whereby PRINCE OF DANCE might have been nominated to follow up his Newbury debut victory, but it's difficult to enthuse about stable representatives just now. That said, the good to soft victory was gained in impressive manner whereby the late (May 11) colt might be worth a speculative punt, though I'll leave the decision to you. Alternatives are plentiful in an interesting event, though value for money calls might prove to be STEVIE GEE and SIGNOR PELTRO from an each way perspective.
16.50
RESURGE would hold an interesting each way chance if the ground dried out during the course of the afternoon though if softer conditions are in evidence, I would be inclined to expect FEATHERWEIGHT and HERITAGE COAST to finish in front of Adam Kirby's mount.
17.20
Decent going would bring MALT OR MASH and HAWRIDGE KING into the equation whilst savers could be placed on TIMES UP and OMOKOROA in case dew on the grass this morning ensures that plenty of moisture remains in the ground.
Ffos Las Racing Tips -- Sunday 11/10/2009
Best bets:
nb- 14.10: AOHNA
nap- 17.05: FOURPOINTONE
14.10
Regular readers will be aware that there are no trends to work with given the 'new track' in darkest Wales. AOHNA had the speed to win a Lingfield 'bumper' event on his penultimate start and Alan King's raider might not have to shift out of third gear to account for his six rivals here. Nigel Twiston Davies has saddled four runners without success at the venue to date and PALMITO might be hard pushed to score at the first time of asking, albeit a forecast/toteplacepot position could be on the cards.
14.45
HOUSE OF BOURBON.
15.20
Fair play to the Hawke team for finding another winning opportunity for their fast ground Plumpton winner BRENNANSTOWN, albeit over five hundred days have lapsed since his impressive bumper victory at the west Sussex venue. Stable companion Shadow Wood has also been declared but bigger dangers are to the fore in BALTHAZAR KING and MAC HALEN.
15.55
SAMBULANDO has only finished out of the three on one occasion via nine starts and was beaten just two and a half lengths on that occasion. The Tom George raider is attempting a hat trick following 'summer victories' back in May and June. SYDNEY SLING might have more to offer over the larger obstacles having secured a medal of each colour via eight outings over timber.
16.30
The Ffos Las Executive should be extremely pleased with this turnout as all nine runners have winning form to boast in 'recent' times. PEPPERONI PETE in consistent from an each way/toteplacepot perspective though I wouldn't back the Milton Harris raider to actually win the contest. Philip Hobbs has his team in good nick already whereby his pair could provide the winner of the race bewteen them, namely OLDRIK and SPANISH CONQUEST.
17.05
Michael Scudamore has won with two of his last five runners and stable representative FOURPOINTONE could score at potentially rewarding odds, albeit the recent 50/1 Worcester winner KAVI should go well at slightly shorter odds on this occasion.
17.40
Richard Johnson stays on for the lucky last and CRESSWELL PRIDE could reward 'Dickie' in the finale. This bumper event should not take a great deal of winning and I doubt that the eventual form will amount to much but that said something has to win, and CRESSWELL PRIDE might have most to fear from the likes of KNAR MARDY and HONOURABLE DREAMER.
York Racing Tips -- Saturday 10/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.55: UPTON SEAS
e/w- 17.30: ZAAQYA
14.05
On the previous occasion when HARRISON GEORGE won (before the last time out success), Richard Fahey's raider put back-to-back victories together whereby it's difficult to leave the four-year-old out of the equation. With four places up for grabs I am allowed three 'dangers' to the selections (via self imposed rules) which are MAKAAMEN, SOMETHING and MEDICI PEARL.
14.40
All three winners have carried weights of 8-10 or less and I will speculate on this year's trio of 'qualifiers, whereby THEOLA, KING IN WAITING and ACCORDING TO PETE are all added to the equation. PENANG PRINCESS is offered up as the overnight reserve.
15.10
Seven of the last nine winners of this event have scored at odds of 9/2 or less which includes two successful favourites. NEVER THE WAITER, RACY and COOLMINX are three of the least exposed runners in the line up and I would be extremely surprised if this trio was far away at the furlong marker.
15.45
Plenty of these runners flatter to deceive on a regular basis whereby it should pay to forget yester-year performances and remain with horses in form, names which include TOUFAN EXPRESS, IRISH HEARTBEAT, KALDOUN KINGDOM and CHEVETON. I grant that Captain Gerrard would have picked this lot up and carried them a year or two ago, but time catches up with us all.
16.20
This is a poor maiden event for juveniles by York standards and I have a negative stat (for bad measure) for anyone who wants to steam into Sir Michael Stoute's Seeking The Gold colt LAY CLAIM, as William Buick is 0/19 when riding for the trainer to date. That said, there is little else to recommend other than COUNT BERTONI and the Danehill Dancer newcomer LOST IN THE MOMENT.
16.55
It would be entirely wrong of yours truly to pass up the opportunity of congratulating Dale Gibson on a fine career in the saddle. Dale takes his last ride in this event, having been booked aboard Mick Easterby's raider UPTON SEAS. The beaten favourite could easily reward patience if you backed the three-year-old last time out whilst Dale still has plenty of enthusuiasm given the (dead heat) winner on the Knavesmire in the opening race on Friday. The potential party-poopers in the line up include DREAM IN WAITING and Hughie Morrison's pair ULTIMATE and SOME SUNNY DAY.
17.30
DEVOTION TO DUTY might eventually attract punters if they get that far down the handicap before making a selection in the York finale. John Dunlop has finished the season to good effect down the years whereby ZAAQYA could set the Arundel wheels in motion, whilst others to consider include HINDU KUSH, BAJAN PARKES and PUZZLEMASTER.
York Racing Tips -- Friday 09/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.10: COLEPEPER
nb- 14.45: BLIZZARD BLUES
14.10
Four of the last five winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more whereby both of this year's 'qualifiers' COLEPEPER and HALTELA are added to my mix. EMERALD GIRL completes my trio against the field in a typical Knavesmire Nursery event.
14.45
The fact that BLIZZARD BLUES was blinkered on his debut might have been responsible for the Mr Greeley colt starting at 25/1 before Henry Cecil's raider beat stable companion Manifest at Newmarket. Manifest was a costly failure recently but meeting well exposed types here, BLIZZARD BLUES is fancied to 'double up' against this opposition. WASAN is the pick of the other six runners.
15.20
Three of the four winners have scored at 25/1--20/1--14/1 whilst five-year-olds come to the gig on a four-timer. The pick of the three-five-year-olds on this occasion should prove to be the recent Wolverhampton winner HANDSOME FALCON. THOUSAND MILES could be classed as well handicapped on the best of his form, though decent performances have fallen well off the radar. Others to consider include MEDICEAN MAN and CARA'S REQUEST.
15.55
Five of the last nine favourites have obliged whilst market leaders come to the gig on a hat trick. EXCELLENT VISION ran on well having been outpaced in the middle part of the contest on his debut, and that form was franked when Exceedingly Bold scored in facile style at Newbury on Thursday. The pair of David Nicholls raiders are expected to offer most resistance close home, namely LAYLA'S PRINCE and GEORGE BENJAMIN.
16.30
Four-year-olds have won five of the nine renewals during the last decade whilst every winner during the period carried weights of 8-12 or more. INCOMPARABLE, NORTHERN BOLT and DISCANTI possess ticks in both boxes, whilst EXCELLENT SHOW should run well for trainer Bryan Smart.
17.00
Fifteen runner handicap--race for apprentices--no previous races to work with, is there no end to the negatives in this finale? CHARLIE TOKYO, RED JADE and NORTHERN JEM can only be offered in tentative fashion.
Newbury Horse Racing Tips -- Thursday 08/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.25: DANCING DAVID
e/w- 15.55: MONTE MAYOR ONE
13.35
AULTCHARM was one of twenty juveniles that Brain Meehan 'short listed' as horses to look out for earlier in the year and it has taken until the second week of October for the Kyllachy colt to reach the racecourse. Others to have sent out decent smoke signals include Richard Hannon's pair COUNT OF ANJOU and SWEET SECRET, whilst Andrew Balding's Danehill Dancer filly STRICTLY DANCING ran well enough on her debut to suggest that a race of this nature is within range.
14.10
Godolphin raiders have won two of the last four renewals whereby their Oasis Dream colt MUTAFAJER demands to be included in my mix, whilst others that catch the eye include the Newmarket third NOAFAL, the Bahamian Bounty colt having run well at the first time of asking. Newcomers that come to the gig with well touted reputations include COMPTON WAY and QUITE SOMETHING from the 'local' yards of Barry Hills and Andrew Balding respectively.
14.45
Montjeu won the 1999 'Arc' on Heavy ground which was no great surprise hailing from Sadler's Wells stock. Montjeu is the sire of REGAL PARK on this occasion and if the going really does cut up rough on this occasion, Ryan Moore's mount should cope with conditions as well as anything else. Experience could be useful given the projected conditions whereby TACTICIAN arguably sets the standard, whilst other newcomers to peruse include DATABASE and TAQLEED.
15.20
Three-year-olds have won the three (of four) renewals and taking yielding/soft ground form into account, my trio agauinst the field consists of HOLLOW GREEN, FANDITHA and ACCEDE. The each way call via the older runners might prove to be Alan King's course and distance winner COSMEA.
15.55
It's absolutely tipping it down here as I write this analysis whereby It might prove unwise to ignore the bottom horse in the handicap MONTE MAYOR ONE who boasts winning form on heavy ground, albeit of the egg and spoon variety. FARMERS WISH also enters my mix via the potential conditions whilst horses to the fore via the form book include course and distance winner MOONLINE DANCER and FREEFORADAY.
16.25
It would be a shame if conditions produce umpteen non runners on the card, especially in the case of DANCING DAVID who showed so much promise at Salisbury at the first time of asking. The fact that the contest was run under good to soft conditions should ensure his participation, whereby the Danehill Dancer colt might have most to fear from LUNAR VICTORY and FALAHILL, a Selkirk raider whi might be less inconvenienced by the ground than most.
17.00
The trade Press price of 14/1 about heavy ground Nottingham winner ILLUSIVE SPIRIT could prove wide of the mark if as much rain is falling in Berkshire as it is in Kent at the time of writing. Connections of IMPLICATION will hope for better luck this time around whilst DIALECT completes my trio agauinst the field.
17.35
LADY HESTIA has won three of her last four races and with David Probert still desperately searching for winners, the Marcus Tregoning raider has to be high on my list of potential winners. ARAB LEAGUE continues to offer consistent each way performances whilst WESTER ROSS ia another each way consideration.
Best bets at Newbury:
Nottingham Horse Racing Tips -- Wednesday 07/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.10: LIFE AND SOUL
e/w- 17.40: FLASHY PHOTON
14.10
Pat Eddery has saddled two of his six two-year-old winners here at Nottingham at the time of writing whereby KAPELAD JUNIOR is included in my overnight mix, even though the Clodovil gelding has only won a lowly Redcar seller to date. Others entering the equation in a race which should not prove difficult to win include BLACK DADDY, BOJANGLES ANDREWS, BLUE RUM and DIXIE HEIGHTS.
14.40
A bookmaker's result appears to be on the cards in this second division of the opening Nusery contest on the Nottingham programme. I can only offer up a tentative 'short list' in the circumstances, which consists of SAINT SEBASTIAN, TAKE MY HAND, PETER'S FOLLIE and SLASL.
15.10
FREQUENCY is an extremely late May foal (16th) whereby Ed Dunlop's delay in running the Starcraft colt could reap dividends during the closing weeks of the season, even if Jamie Spencer's mount needs this first outing. HIGH COMEDY could be anything from the Godolphin production line whilst others to take into consideration include MIDWESTERN and PICNIC PARTY.
15.40
COLONEL CARTER looks like a typical Brian Meehan improver in the making following a fine debut effort at Newbury. The Danehill Dancer colt looks certain to reward connectiosn with another cheque of some description. SHERNANDO holds an Epsom Derby entry for next year and should be worth watching for futuristic wagers whilst ANHAR and KRYMIAN are more obvious winners on this occasion.
16.10
Beaten favourite COMRADESHIP is fast running out of friends and will enter many a 'last chance saloon' here I'll wager. LIFE AND SOUL is the each way (bet to nothing) call by yours truly whilst LIBERTY SQUARE completes my trio against the field.
16.40
Five of the last six winners have carried weights of 8-13 or more which eliminates forty per cent of the field (6/15) if you take the stats seriously. The pick of the nine remaining horses might prove to be WING PLAY, SPECIAL RESERVE and EMPEROR COURT.
17.10
Three-year-olds had won the first seven renewals of this event before a four-year-old acted as party-pooper twelve months ago. I expect the race to revert to type here with strong junior raiders in the line up including AKBABEND, BRUTON STREET and CHARGER.
17.40
With just one renewal to work with, trends are obviously off the agenda but that said, four-year-olds filled the forecast positions in the inaugural running of the contest whereby my speculative quartet against the field consists of FLASHY PHOTON, WHITEOAK LADY, ALAN DEVONSHIRE and ANOTHER TRY.
Catterick Horse Racing Tips -- Tuesday 06/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.00: UNSHAKABLE WILL
nb- 17.30: DRAMATIC SOLO
14.00
I have to ask the question again; Why are we subjected to an amateur race for openers on an eight race card? The toteplacepot is (arguably against the Lucky 15) the most popular bet within the sport and should not (in my opinion) be affected by an amateur event when the number of races allow 'professional' contests to be included. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that THE NAME IS FRANK, TOWY BOY and PRINCESS CHARLMANE should give investors a decent run for their collective monies.
14.30
This is desperation time for trainers who (respectfully) are attempting to find races for moderate horses to win. Any money in your pocket should remain there but if you must play, SWEET MIRASOL, DIAMOND AFFAIR and OONDIRI might serve best.
15.00
The second division of this two-year-old handicap event at least offers ON THE PISTE the chance to score for the fourth time via six starts, form which shines like a beacon out of the Catterick gloom. This is the stronger heat of the two bearing in mind that GOWER SOPHIA and SOCIAL GRACE have also been declared to run.
15.30
Leading northern trainers Richard Fahey (TRINDER) and David Nicholls (IL FORNO) should be represented to decent effect in this event even though Dandy's other runner SET BACK might need this first outing. I am not sure what has kept the Michael Dods representative COMMANCHE RAIDER off the track for nearly five months following a positive debut but whatever it was should not stop the February foal from running well in this company.
16.00
The last of the three Nursery events on the Catterick card and much the most interesting I'm bound to add. UNSHAKABLE WILL and PURE NOSTALIGIA are the pair to home in on according to the gospel of yours truly, whilst LIVING IT LARGE did nothing wrong at Musselburgh when going one better to score at the second time of asking.
16.30
Three-year-olds arrive at the gig on a hat trick though the trio of vintage representatives have plenty to prove via the form book. SHANAVAZ is the tentative choice of the three though as five of the last six winners of this event have carried weights of 8-13 or more, likelier gold medallists emerge via course and distance winner MYSTIFIED and OBARA D'AVRIL.
17.00
This is the second division of the previous race on the card whereby the stats remain in place. The pick of the trio of junior raiders might prove to be MARKADAM, whilst those further up the weights to catch the eye include DAZZLING BEGUM and hat trick seeker SIMPLE JIM.
17.30
Beaten favourite DRAMATIC SOLO might be worth another chance in this grade as it's worth noting that the Alan Jarvis raider has finished 'in the three' twelve times via twenty six races to date (four-time winner). AFRICAN CHEETAH has made a monkey out of yours truly the last couple of times he has run and enters my 'last chace saloon', whilst AIR MAZE is another consistent each way performer in the line up.
Windsor Horse Racing Tips -- Monday 05/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.30: WELLINGTON FAIR
e/w- 17.00: MASTER FONG
14.30
The last five winners have carried weights of 9-3 or less in this opening encounter whereby the trio of AGGRAVATION, SOUL SISTA and BINFIELD make some appeal in a race which will not take a great deal of winning.
15.00
Four of the seven favourites have secured toteplacepot positions (two winners) whilst gold medallists have also emerged at 20/1--14/1--12/1. Richard Hannon's record is there for all to see (ten 2YO winners at Windsor already this season) whereby beaten favourite FINE SIGHT has to be included in the mix. Michael Bell's fortunes in the two-year-old sector are slowly turning and MONT AGEL can build on his decent Yarmouth debut. GUIDECCA TEN completes my trio against the field.
15.30
Brian Meehan (NAVAJO NATION) and William Haggas (TIGER FLASH) have saddled twelve winners between them (even split) during the last fortnight, figures which compare favourably to the tally of seven via the other seven representated trainers. The two horses mentioned in dispatches are included in the mix accordingly, whilst CLOUDESLY is added to the equation.
16.00
This is an interesting Nursery event and it's worth taking note that just one of the six renewals to date has fallen to the favourite, a 4/1 chance into the bargain. Any number of runners (literally) could win whereby it often pays to take a chance in such events and look for some value. WELLINGTON FAIR, FELSHAM and MICKY'S KNOCK OFF will do for yours truly.
16.30
It's unusual for maiden races at Windsor to offer negative favourite stats, though just two market leaders have won this mixed vintage event during the last decade. Such stats should be blown away this time around however with both HAJOUM and BENDED KNEE having been declared. Warning signs have been posted however and if you are looking for a win and place selection to consider, NATIVITY might best serve the cause.
17.00
Just one of the four favourites has finished in the frame to date (no winners) whilst it's worth noting that last year's 4/1 market leader finished last of twelve. Unwards and onwards in positive mode by suggesting that HAJMAH and MASTER FONG will run well from either end of the trade press betting in this 'short field' finale.
Uttoxeter Horse Racing Tips -- Sunday 04/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.40: TRULY FRUITFUL
nb- 16.50: CATCH BOB
14.35
Older horses have generally held the call in this opening event at Uttoxeter and the two six-year-olds against the other trio will do for for openers, namely MOORLANDS TERI and PSYCHOLOGY who are listed in marginal order of preference.
15.05
Richard Johnson takes the ride aboard PENGANA for the first time and though the five-year-old is asked to give upwards of seven pounds away to thirteen opponents, you get the impression that it will have to be one of the six newcomers to NH rules to inflict defeat upon Dickie's mount. The return to the minimum trip is expect to 'coincide' with another success. The pick of the afore mentioned debutants might prove to be CLOUSEAU and (particularly) SEVENTH CAVALRY.
15.40
Is it just me, or is there a contrast in class between the contenders in this event compared to the race in France which was due off twenty five minutes before this race? Upwards and onwards in positive mode by suggesting that Richard Johnson can ride his second winner from as many rides in the last five years for Dr Newland. The trainer saddles his Fruits Of Love Southwell winner TRULY FRUITFUL on this occasion and there does not seem any reason to oppose the likely favourite. IS IT ME and MUNTAMI are the likeliest dangers.
16.15
My self imposed ruling of offering one horse in these 'win only' races often haunts yours truly, though SHORE THING should get me out of jail on this occasion. OGEE is the fairly obvious danger and the course and distance winner (albeit on separate occasions) is nominated as the overnight reserve.
16.50
The weight stats suggest the bottom two horses in the list will struggle from a toteplacepot perspective whilst the two winners to date carried weights of 11-6 and 11-7. Beaten favourite CATCH BOB will attract plenty of support as trainer Ferdy Murphy has found an ideal event for connections to gain compensation for the Kelso reversal. TAYMAN is the nominated threat whilst each way investors might side with COUP DE TABAC.
17.25
Nigel Twiston Davies saddled a winner at Market Rasen the other day and having won this event twelve months ago, GO WEST is given a chance to double up for the trainer. Each way thieves will want to be homing on 5/1 plus chances, the best of which (potentially) are offered as SKIPPER'S LAD and RUNSHAN.
17.55
A poor finale whichever which way you look at things, whereby even beaten favourite STONERIGGS MERC could be good enough to atone for his Cartmel defeat. To be entirely fair to the Alderbrook gelding, the ground in the lake District was awful and though rain is forecast for the weekend in and around the borders, conditions can only be better this time around. PAS DE BARATIN and THENAMEESCAPESME are others for consideration.
Epsom Horse Racing Tips -- Saturday 03/10/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.45: TASTE THE WINE
nb- 16.55: DEPORTMENT
14.05
Epsom trainers love their local meetings, none more than Simon Dow (KALEO) and the Johnson team (ELNA BRIGHT) and both stables are in contention of receiving cheques on behalf of their owners in this event. Course and distance winner POTENTIALE is the potential party pooper in the line up, coming here on a hat trick following victories at Goodwood and here on the Downs.
14.35
The 'recent' winners CONSTANT CONTACT and PINTURA (preferred in that order) have chances of 'doubling up' though DYLANESQUE was a good winner at Yarmouth last time out and his nearest pursuer Alice Alleyene franked the form to winning effect at Wolverhampton on Thursday.
15.10
ZEITOPER was the slowest of the four juvenile winners over eight furlongs at Sandown this year but that said, the Godolphin raider looks to have plenty of scope and providing the Singspiel colt handles the track, I could fancy the February foal to go well. Henry Cecil's dual surface winner MINGUN BELL is preferred to RAINE'S CROSS as the main danger to the selection.
15.45
Three-year-olds have won all three renewals to date and four of the nine declarations represent the junior vintage on this occasion. Whilst WORTH A KING'S will attract most of the attention hailing from Sir Michael Stoute's popular stable, I'll put in a quiet word for TASTE THE WINE at the bottom of the handicap. Stan Moore's Verglas gelding is the only horse who qualifies via the weight stats, as the trio of gold medallists carried 8-6 or less. TILOS GEM completes my trio against the field.
16.20
The Godolphin raider SOVEREIGN REMEDY will be a popular order irrespective of what I have to report but that said, the weight trends suggest that the beaten favourite will struggle as all three winners thus far have carried 8-12 or less. This fact suggests that EASTERN WARRIOR, MUTAWARATH and ROAR OF APPLAUSE all possess chances in this dead eight event.
16.55
Fillies have won all three contests to date yet only James Fanshawe is seemingly live to the trend as DEPORTMENT is the only runner representing the fair sex from an equine perspective. The four colts/gelding that have run have failed to cut any significant ice, whereby the newcomers DUBAI CREEK and UNCLE KEEF might emerge as the main dangers to the speculative selection.
17.30
Older horses have won two of the three renewals to date whereby MY LEARNED FRIEND (despite being visored for the first time) makes a degree of appeal in a competitive looking finale. LEADENHALL LASS might fare best of the local runners whilst FROGNAL completes my trio against the other ten contenders.
Lingfield Horse Racing Tips -- Friday 02/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.00: ARTY CRAFTY
nb- 14.40: MADAME ROULIN
13.35
Just the one renewal to work from but the trend was potentially significant as the first three horses home last year carried weights of 9-2 or more. With just three 'qualifiers' on this occasion my job is relatively simple, to nominate NIGHT KNIGHT, HOLD THE BUCKS and WAAHEJ against the field.
14.05
This is the second division of the opening event on the card where the stats (such as they are) remain in place. PRIMO DILETTANTE is marginally preferred to ROSCO FLYER at the top of the handicap, whilst SOLO CHOICE is the each way call in what appears to be the weaker heat of the two. QUINSMAN is the nominated reserve.
14.40
FOLETTA'S attitude has been brought under the spotlight several times this season and Richard Hannon's January foal has another opportunity to upset journalists and punters alike in a disappointing event. Something has obviously gone amiss with MADAME ROULIN over the summer period as trainer Michael Bell suggested that this "big and well made filly" would be one of the earlier runners emerging from the yard this year. Michael had found a great opportunity for the Xaar filly if she does not have to recover too much from whatever was ailing her a few months back. Michael also saddles another
newcomer in the shape of SHARP AND CHIC whilst LADY CAVENDISH is another debutante to consider.
15.15
The terms and conditions of this selling event greatly favour RUDOLPH SCHMIDT and CAPO REGIME, though both horses are poorly drawn (14 and 13 in a fourteen runner contest). EQUIPE DE NUIT is better housed in trap six and might take some catching if William Carson adopts 'catch me if you can' tactics.
15.50
Many punters will wade into NOBLE GREEK following two runner up efforts via three races to date, but I will not be joining those who are willing to chase losses about the beaten favourite. I cannot offer enthusiasm about his nine opponenets but win, lose or draw, I will be laying the market leader. John Best is having a poor season by his high standards whilst the sire (Omega Code) is anything but prolific.
16.25
It's time to think about young people with difficulties (no fault of their own making) as the race name implies and let's hope the charity enjoys a successful day. POPPANAN would be something to bet on if we knew the Mr Greeley gelding would repeat his last performance on the Polytrack surface. If that proves not to be the case, the chief beneficieries might be MILNE BAY and MUSICAL SCRIPT.
17.00
It's extremely difficult to oppose ARTY CRAFTY who is expected to atone for beaten favourite losses at Kempton on Wednesday over this longer distance. Not best boxed in the line up by any means, Sir Mark Prescott's raider has time to recover from the draw over this trip whilst it's worth noting that like the majority of Mark's potential winners over a trip, ARTY CRAFTY is entered for another (Pontefract) event on Monday. Potential each way thieves might concentrate on FLEUR DE 'LION and SLICKER to best effect.
17.35
The car parks at Lingfield should have emptied out before this race is run unless punters are chasing their losses in what looks a nightmare of a finale for racegoers. I can only offer the speculative and tentative trio of ARLENE PHILLIPS, TINKERBELLE and JACHOL in the circumstances. PRIMERA ROSSA receives the reserve nomination.
Goodwood Horse Racing Tips -- Thursday 01/10/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.55: ACQUISITION
nb- 14.10: MORANA
14.10
Peter Chapple-Hyam complicates matters by saddling both MORANA and his Bachelor Duke newcomer CUNNING PLAN in the opening race on the card. Most racegoers would have expected Peter to have relied upon his Sandown runner up MORANA to secure this prize, the Alhaarth representative having ran a fine race on his Sandown debut behind the highly impressive (and aptly named) Hot Prospect three weeks ago. At least one of Peter's two inmates should take care of AWESOME ACT who has lacked a finishing kick in his three efforts to date, albeit the April foal has not been beaten by wide margins thus far.
14.45
Both favourites have finished out of the frame with the gold medallists having been returned at odds fo 20/1 and 12/1. Some races simply attract 'bookmaker's results' via the make up of the event and this stayers race for unproven horses over the trip possesses all the hallmarks of a race in which punters part with as little of their money as possible. ALHAQUE and SANA ABELK might fight out the finish on this occasion, though I wouldn't bet on it.
15.20
Both winners have carried weights of 8-13 or less and PHEROUSA and (particularly) KATEHARI make some appeal at what should be rewarding odds in a competitive renewal. A more logical winner is CHIPS O'TOOLE but value is the name of the game in these two-year-old handicap events. FREEFORADAY holds PHEROUSA via his winning form at Folkestone last time out, though Michael Blanshard's Dubawi filly is eight pounds better off on this occasion.
15.55
Henry Cecil had saddled seven winners via his last sixteen runners at the time of writing whereby his Dansili filly ACQUISITION jumps off the page, albeit in what looks to be an interesting Class 3 handicap event. QELAAN appears to be the main threat in receipt of five pounds. Be careful with your wagers as Hollow Green and Sweet Hollow have been declared, though both horses will have to record personal best performances to trouble the judge in my considered opinion.
16.30
Horses carrying 8-12 or more have secured four of the six available toteplacepot positions (stats include both winners) and my trio against the field consists of CASTER SUGAR, BOMBER BROWN and ANDHAAR. The Cozzene filly CASTER SUGAR has won three of her last five races having finished 'in the three' seven times via fifteen outings to date.
17.05
Four of the five horses which finished in the first six places in the inaugural running of this event last year carried 9-1 or more, stats which included the 4/1 winning favourite. Fourteen runners contested that event whereby the figure are solid enough, albeit I appreciate that the race hardly set a 'trend' following just one event! As a self confessed anorak however, I will adhere to the numbers in place whereby I will rely on FAJITA, WILBURY STAR and PLAY IT SAM on this occasion.
17.40
The bottom three horses in the handicap have plenty to prove according to the weight stats in this apprentice event and though stakes will be kept to a minimum, I will offer up PIAZZA SAN PIETRO, KYLLACHY STORM and course and distance winner BRANDYWELL BOY against the other eight contenders. TRIPLE DREAM was due to contest a race on Wednesday at the time of writing and it remains to be seen if Milton Bradley's potential top weight turns up for the gig.
Nottingham Horse Racing Tips -- Wednesday 30/09/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.50: RAIMOND RIDGE
nb- 15.25: ROYAL DIAMOND
14.20
Three of the last nine horses saddled by William Haggas have prevailed and though CLOUD'S END makes her debut in this contest, the Dubawi filly represents a sire which is having a great season. The Oasis Dream colt SIR FRANK WAPPAT is an extremely late foal (May 17) who can only build on his reasonable Yarmouth debut.
14.50
RAIMOND RIDGE is five pounds better off with BATTLE for a half length defeat last time out (eight pounds if the claimer forgoes breakfast) whereby the 10/1 and 7/2 respective quotes in the trade press are difficult to digest. Yes I appreciate that BATTLE is probably the more progressive of the pair but the prices look a little awry to yours truly, as I expect there to be little daylight between the pair at the jamstick. DESERT STRIKE might snare third place close home.
15.25
ROYAL DIAMOND is a typical Sir Mark Prescott stayer and the four-timer is very much on the radar, albeit the King's Best gelding has no other entries in the foresseable future which is unusual for the trainer when one of his horses hits a run of form. SHERMAN MCCOY is the speculative call for the alternative/forecast position.
16.00
Fillies and colder mornings/nights do not sit comfortably together whereby any investment should be kept to small stakes but that said, the Godolphin raider BINT ALMATAR has been the subject of positive reports for some time now and it would be disappointing if the Kingmambo colt failed to open his account at the first time of asking. The dam (Firth Of Lorne) was a silver medallist in the French 1000 Guineas and a Listed winner in her day, whilst this extended eight furlong trip (taking Kinkgmambo into account) should suit the January foal admirably. MAUSIN might emerge as the 'straightest' of the other newcomers whilst TWILIGHT MEMORY is expected to come on for her first outing where the soft ground might have gone against her.
16.35
Four of the last seven renewals have gone the way of favourites whilst seven of the last eight winners have been returned at 6/1 or less. A 28/1 winner is hidden within the stats however, and given seventeen potential runners on this occasion, I'll be keeping my money safely under lock and key. If you must play, the likes of STAR GAZING, MR UDAGAWA and FORWARD PLANNING might serve best.
17.10
FANTASTIC PICK is the obvious choice given his hat trick attempt here and as Fantastic Light horses improve as they grow older, the treble is on the cards. That said, venues such as Redcar and Bath where Brain Meehan's February foal has scored to date can hardly be classed as 'reliable' venues which prevents me from napping Martin Dwyer's moutn on this occasion. I still expect FANTASTIC PICK to win but strong challenges from the likes of STORM COMMAND and ELLA GRACE would not surprise yours truly in the slightest. LEITZU contested the first nine furlong juvenile event of the year at Newmarket last time out and this longer trip will suit Mick Channon's Barathea filly in all porbability. Mick still heads the Nursery table this year with nine two-year-old handicap winners to date.
17.40
Regular readers know my position in these amateur races whereby jockeys are selected as much as the equine representatives. DRAGON SLAYER, FREE TUSSY and BAVARICA are tentatively selected accordingly.
Warwick Horse Racing Tips -- Tuesday 29/09/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.40: SUBTEFUGE
nb- 15.40: BLACK DAHLIA
14.10
Bryn Palling's Hawk Wing gelding ABHAINN scored at the thirteenth attempt last time out and with the two winners of this event carrying feather-weights to date, David Probert's mount could go close. More logical winners via the form book include GHOST DANCER and GREEN VELVET.
14.40
Henry Cecil saddled a pair of juvenile winners via just the two runners during the weekend whereby it's far too early to write off his Observatory filly SUBTEFUGE just yet. RED FANTASY was beaten less than four lengths in a much better Newbury event at the first time of asking, whilst EXTREME GREEN is an interesting newcomer. Andrew Balding describes the Morivator filly as racey without being very big whereby the trainer appears to have found the right venue for the February foal.
15.10
Horses trained by Andrew Balding (VIKING SPIRIT) and Barry Hills (MUSIC MAESTRO) were mentioned positively relating to the first juvenile race on the Warwick card and this pair should also become competitive at the business end of proceedings. LANDOWNER will sport the blue colours of Godolphin and the Shamardal colt ran well enough at Brighton first time up, bearing in mind that juveniles are excused anything less than a perfect effort at the undulating venue.
15.40
BLACK DAHLIA has the chance to post another score on the board on behalf of four-year-olds in this contest, vintage representatives have swept the board twelve months ago. A three-year-old had won the previous contest (as is often the case in these mixed vintage events) whereby CHEAM FOREVER and DIAMOND DAISY can also be given chances of registering a Warwick success.
16.10
Both winners of this nursery event have carried weights of 9-2 or more to date and with form being conspicuous by its absence, this self confessed anorak will include both qualifiers on this occasion, namely DANZOE and SIR BRUNO. Tom Dascombe (Fire And Stone) has been going through a rough patch relating to his juvenile representatives whereby I'll offer up GREEN EARTH as the danger to the pair already mentioned in dispatches.
16.40
PINTURA arrives at the last chance saloon even though Mick Channon's Efisio gelding registered a Redcar victory earlier in the season. The Cleveland track is famous for offering misleading form and PINTURA has done his best to contribue to bookmaker funds whereby both Leicester winner TRULY MAGIC and top weighted DECREE ABSOLUTE could take advantage of Pintura's possible lack of resolution close home.
17.10
This 'dead eight' contest will have potential thieves rising from their respective pits earlier than usual, especially with the trade press suggesting that bookmakers will be offering 3/1 the field. CRY FOR THE MOON, MY MATE MAX, and HOWDIGO might best serve speculative win and place readers on this occasion.
17.40
Congratulations to the Warwick Executive for their race planning whereby this amateur event completes the card. Too many venues stage these races as their opening events which causes mayhem from a toteplacepot perspective. Upwards and onwards in positive mode by suggesting that SCEILIN, GALA SUNDAY, REHABILITATION and AKRAM will offer a good run for collective monies if you feel the need to play.
Bath Horse Racing Tips -- Monday 28/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.10: RAKAAN
nb- 15.40: DUTY AND DESTINY
14.10
Fresh from Pleasant Day's juvenile Ascot success on Sunday, Brian Meehan should come to the gig in party form, especially having won this race twice in 'recent' seasons. Placed five times via seven starts to date, Brian's Bahamian Bounty colt RAKAAN looks primed to win at the eighth attempt with seemingly only REDDY TO STAR and Roger Charlton's newcomer MEMORANDUM to beat.
14.40
TOTAL IMPACT is an interesting northern raider though from a value for money perspective, 9-9 could be viewed as a 'stopping weight' whereby course and distance winners MATTERFOFACT, GREEN LAGONDA and DESPERATE DAN enter the mix.
15.10
My self imposed ruling of only offering one horse in these 'win only' races comes back to haunt on me all too regularly, though I''ll happily side with Mark Johnston's three-year-old representative FIN VIN DE LEU on this occasion.
15.40
The Montjeu filly DUTY AND DESTINY should complete a two-year-old double on the card for trainer Brian Meehan from just the two juvenile races staged at the venue on Monday. LOVELY EYES and EXEMPLARY are hardly original alternative selections but it is difficult to envisage a victory forthcoming via the other five runners.
16.10
Three-year-old dominate this type of event week in and week out and this race is no exception, junior raiders having won the contest since the old king died. The Marju filly TANFIDH lacked pace when beaten as market leader last time out and though the Marcus Tregoning has little to beat here, I would't recommend punters with burned fingers wading in relating to compensation for the loss. MOONBEAM DANCER is held on the form book whereby CHINCOTEAGUE is the obvious danger.
16.40
PACIFIC BAY boasts the only recent winning form via the nine contenders and Richard Fahey's northern hope seemingly has JEWELLED REEF and INDIAN VIOLET to beat.
Haydock Horse Racing Tips -- Saturday 26/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.40: SUPER COLLIDER
nb- 15.00: PROHIBIT
14.25
Three of the last five renewals have been won by three-year-olds, yet no junior raiders have been declared. Little wonder that owners complain about trainers every now and again! Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that MARKINGTON, GORDONSVILLE and OVERTURN might produce the winner between them at rewarding odds.
15.00
Three of the four winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more and just four horses qualify on this occasion. PROHIBIT is the call of the quartet from a potential win perspective, though both CONFUCHIAS and HITCHENS hold each way claims. EVERYMANFORHIMSLEF makes up the group and the course and distance winner is awarded the rerserve nomination.
15.35
This Haydock card is easy to assess from an 'anorak' perspective as so many of the races are determined by trends of one sort or another. The last seven gold medallists in this event have carried 8-12 or more which 'wipes out' sixty per cent (nine) of the runners. My trio against the field is OLDJOESAID, FOL HOLLOW and HOH HOH HOH.
16.05
John Dunlop has won four of the last nine renewals; hence I guess this was the obvious target for John's Nayef filly ZAHOO who comes the party as a beaten favourite. Fellow beaten market leader MISS ANTONIA also heads north with a chance, if I'm allowed to use the word 'fellow' in a fillies only contest! James Given suggested that YANKEE BRIGHT was a "class horse" on a stable tour back in the spring and with northern based claimer Frederik Tylicki in the saddle, the March foal could go well at the first time of asking.
16.40
SUPER COLLIDER could have bumped into a 'tartar' in Passion For Gold last time out as the winner heads over the Irish Sea for a Group 2 event during the course of the next few days. The 8/13 failure was beaten five lengths but in the belief there is not another potential Group horse in this field, Michael Jarvis might be celebrating yet another juvenile winner. GRAYMALKIN and START RIGHT are the potential party poopers in the line up.
17.15
Three-year-olds have won seven renewals during the last decade and STERLING SOUND, STAN'S COOL CAT and ASSABIYYA might best serve the vintage in the finale.
Haydock Horse Racing Tips -- Friday 25/09/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.20: PATCH PATCH
nb- 16.30: MULL OF KILLOUGH
14.10
Only David Nicholls has matched Richard Fahey's haul of three juvenile winners at Haydock this season and Richard is represented by the Invincible Spirit filly COIN FROM HEAVEN on this occasion. PLUME was not fully wound up on her debut whilst this better ground should ensure that the Pastoral Pursuits filly becomes more competitive at the second time of asking. SHELFAH finished behind PLUME at Salisbury and though I also expect the Michael Jarvis raider to improve for her initial outing, I believe that Plume will have her measure again.
14.45
The Speightstown colt ATLAAL has been given another winning opportunity to compensate connections and punters for heavy losses sustained at Nottingham last time out. MARIUS MAXIMUS might represent some value as the forecast/alternative call in the line up. Tailed off at the first time of asking, Mark Johnston's raider had shown plenty of early speed before his rider accepted defeat long before the final furlong.
15.20
MISTER HUGHIE was done on the line last time out in a warm Doncaster nursery contest and though many punters will expect Mick Channon's Elusive City colt to go one better here, I antipate sterling efforts from the top two in the list, namely AVONGATE and FIVE CENTS. PATCH PATCH might reward each way players at speculative odds from further down the handicap.
15.55
ORIENTAL CAVALIER and PYRUS TIME hold the call relating to the three-year-old raiders who usually win this type of event. That said, four-year-olds won the first two (of three) renewals whereby BUDDHIST MONK cannot be ignored given the official ratings relating to the seven runners.
16.30
It's difficult to understand the way trainers target races at times. Three-year-olds have won the last four renewals, yet only two junior raiders have been declared (eleven strong field) this time around. Both MULL OF KILLOUGH and YORGUNNABELUCKY are added to the mix accordingly, the youngsters possibly having FAITHFUL RULER to beat on this occasion.
17.05
The three pounds which young 'Louis-Phillipe' potenitally claims aboard ENTREAT could make the difference between victory and defeat, albeit the finale is a tough contest for racegoers to assess. Any number of dangers lurk throughout the handicap, two of which might offer most threat, namely two of Richard Fahey's four runners DR JAMESON and HANDSOME FALCON.
Kempton Horse Racing Tips -- Thursday 24/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 21.00: FANTASY GLADIATOR
e/w- 21.00: HUNTERVIEW
17.30
Official marks suggest that CLOUDESLEY and MISS SOPHISTICAT will take the beating from an each way perspective, though their fellow three-year-old contender ASPRO MAVRO could atone for recent (beaten favourite) losses in this easier encounter. The two four-year-olds have a tough task on their hands.
18.00
Luca Cumani (VALFURVA) is one of only two trainers in this fourteen strong line up that could be classed as 'in form' at the time of writing. Eve Johnson Houghton is the other handler in the positive mix, even though her eight-year-old raider PHLUKE has plenty to prove via the form book. That said, Stephen Carson's mount has a decent draw (13/14) whereby there might not be too much daylight between the two horses mentioned in dispatches at the furlong marker. FIRE KING completes my trio against the field.
18.30
Three-year-olds invariably hold the call in these mixed vintage events and I expect the trend to continue via the likes of BLUE NYPH and CUSTODY on this occasion. ROUGHAM and ALHAQUE could lead home a 1-2-3-4 on behalf of the junior raiders.
19.00
It's difficult to envisage SALYBIA BAY finishing 'out of the three' in all honesty but I would not be prepared to back Richard Hannon's three-year-old unless an each way (bet to nothing) price is on offer. This suggests that this will be a 'no bet' event for yours truly but for those that feel the need to play, I'll offer additional chances to TUPPENNY PIECE and KING'S FABLE.
19.30
The chances of REACH FOR THE SKY (Richard Hannon) and (particularly) MR CORBY (Mick Channon) have to be respected given the trainer stats in the Nursery division this season. Mick Channon is one of the top trainers year on year within the sector whereby MR CORBY has a definite chance to atone for beaten favourite losses last time out. CHICITA BANANA completes my trio against the field from his half decent (8/12) draw.
20.00
JEHU, AL KHIMIYA and TIMELORD are the trio to home in on according to the weights and measures people via official ratings. TIMELORD appears to be the value for money each way call but that said, Simon Callaghan (AL KHIMIYA) is looking to accrue travelling expenses for his pending move to the USA.
20.30
HUNTERVIEW is blinkered for the first time and it's worth noting that Michael Jarvis has given the disappointing three-year-old time to bring about a return to his half decent juvenile form. STOIC and PENITENT are more logical winners but don't rule out a beter effort from the Reset gelding this time around.
21.00
FANTASY GLADIATOR deserved to win at the seventh time of asking and meeting plenty of runners which flatter to deceive in this contest, Bob Cowell's raider must hold claims of notching the double. Potential party poopers include PERFECT ACT and BEN'S DREAM.
Kempton Horse Racing Tips -- Wednesday 23/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.20: AL QUEDDAAF
nb- 20.20: SECRET WITNESS
17.50
Peter Chapple-Hyam's Kyllachy filly would barely have to be half decent to lift this prize with seemingly only EDITH'S BOY to beat.
18.20
The declaration of FELSHAM arguably prevents this maiden event from being the worst race of its kind ever staged at Kempton. FUTURE REGIME and RAIN ON THE WIND might fight out the minor placings if anyone is attending the Sunbury tack given the lack of quality on offer.
18.50
Gracechurch is the 'paper favourite' but the six-year-old is not a realiable type and there might be better value to be had via NEW WORLD OFFER and the better drawn pair of ONENIGHTINLISBON and DANCER'S LEGACY.
19.20
William Haggas (AL QUEDDAAF), Richard Hannon (FORMULA) and Paul Cole (LATIN TINGE) are the three trainers in form going into the contest where the first named pair are particularly interesting via their win and each odds (respectively) offered in the trade press.
19.50
Another poor race on the Kempton card in all honesty whereby the course should offer free admittance given the quality of the 'sport' on offer. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by declaring my tentative trio against the field, namely KIND HEART, CAYMAN SKY and MISTER ROSSA.
20.20
With fourteen potential runners scooting around the seven furlong trip here, high numbers should be kept on the right side, the pick of which might prove to be SECRET WITNESS, ARACHNOPHOBIA and LAST SOVEREIGN.
20.50
Ralph Beckett has found another decent opportunity for his recent Captain Rio winner AGONY AND ECSTACY, especially from a 14/14 draw position. Beaten favourite WALCOT SQUARE is regarded as the chief threat whilst DIAMOND DUCHESS and FOLLETTA are contesting the third position in my list at the time of writing.
21.20
The same comments apply as was the case in the 20.20 event with the same number of runners and distance covered. Course and distance winners STRAIGHT FACE, TAKITWO and DJALALABAD will represent yours truly in the finale.
Folkestone Horse Racing Tips -- Tuesday 22/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.50: AFRICAN CHEETAH
nb- 14.20: RUTHIE BABE
14.20
Horses carrying 9-1 or more have secured four of the six available toteplacepot positions, stats which include both winners for good measure. The facts split the field in half in this dead eight contest if you take the figures seriously whereby my trio against the field consists of RUTHIE BABE, PHEROUSA and FREEFORADAY.
14.50
WELSH OPERA scored at the seventh time of asking on turf last time out at Yarmouth and with William Carson potentially claiming three pounds in the plate, the four-year-old could double up in a race which will not take a great deal of winning. PIC UP STICKS and THOUGHTSOFSTARDOM are feared most.
15.20
This is a race for disappointing types in the main and MASWERTE and THE GALLOPING SHOE are perfect examples of the point I am trying to make. Both horses are in my 'last chance saloon' and unless a dead heat occurs, at least one of the selections is going to be erased from my little black book.
15.50
Both Mark Johnston (EMIRATESDOTCOM) and Sir Mark Prescott (INGENUINE) have saddled eleven winners at the time of writing and though neither horse would qualify from a 'win perspective', both runners hold each way chances. LADY PILOT completes my trio against the field with the only course and distance winner in the line up (SAND REPEAL) offered up as the overnight reserve.
16.20
Unless SILK AND SATIN shows plenty of improvement at the fourth time of asking, less exposed types such as TAFAOOL and GAME STALKER should dominate proceedings.
16.50
AFRICAN CHEETAH went straight into my little black book having secured fourth spot close home at Sandown last week having recovered from a tardy start in a much better race than this contest. The worry here is the easier ten furlong trip at Folkestone as the selection made serious progress up the Esher hill six days ago. That said, Royston Ffrench might be asked to make plenty of use of the Pivotal colt early doors whereby the likes of SILVERGLAS and ADDWIATYA might not get to the quarters of the three-year-old.
Kempton Horse Racing Tips -- Monday 21/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.30: IMPLICATION
nb- 16.30: KINETIX
14.30
The Red Ransom colt DARHAAM only found one too good for him on his debut at Warwick and whilst I wouldn't go overboard about this Derby entry, the Godolphin raider would appear to hold a favourites chance in this event. Michael Jarvis would like nothing better than a Rakti representative scoring at the first time of asking whereby TOM WADE is included in the mix alongside the Medicean debutant ARGUAM.
15.00
The Motivator fily MIRABELLA has landed the plum (14/14) draw in this contest and with the sire securing a couple of recent victories via juveniles, the Richard Hannon February foal in included in the equation. Another entry well housed to consider is MAWAKABA whilst those drawn on the other side of stalls with positive comments already received by yours truly are DEIRDRE and FLOUNCING.
15.30
All six horses with experience have run well, five of which are drawn high on this occasion which must be classed as an additional advantage. The newcomers would do extremely well to trouble the judge at the business end of the contest in the circumstances and my tentative trio against the field consists of FLIP FLOP, MAGIC DOLL and THEREAFTER.
16.00
Something has to give in this three-year-old handicap with both OTTOMAN EMPIRE and TINAAR coming to the gig on hat tricks. Do you side with course and distance winner OTTOMAN EMPIRE or offer TINAAR to take full advantage of the seven pounds concession?
16.30
The only four-year-old to contest the inaugural running of this event last year finished last of seven, whereby I will stick with the junior raiders, the best of which should prove to be KINETIX, ASHES SUMMER and SAMAAHA.
17.00
Course and distance winner VICTORIA SPONGE is asked to overcome trap three (twelve runners) which stops me from laying into Richard Hannon's Marju filly from a win perspective, though I cannot envisage Dane O'Neill's mount finishing out of the three. Stable companion GETCARTER is better boxed in stall eleven, whilst MOSCOW EIGHT completes my trio against the field.
17.30
All three winners have carried weights of 8-12 or more in the finale whereby course and distance winners FANCY FOOTSTEPS and BOMBER COMMAND could be the main dangers to my main selection, namely IMPLICATION from Ed Dunlop's yard. Yes, Ryan Moore's mount races from the 'inferior' sector of the handicap but I'm prepared to overlook the scenario given that the Pivotal filly has secured gold and silver medals in six of her nine races to date. IMPLICATION has drawn the 'box seat' in 14/14 whereby the weight situation is not as important as might have been the case.
Hamilton Horse Racing Tips -- Sunday 20/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.40: VALID POINT
nb- 15.10: MOONBALEJ
14.10
Favourites have won all seven renewals of this opening event to date and horses likely to figure prominently in the betting and in the contest include EMERALD GIRL, DANCE FOR JULIE and GOLD DIAMOND.
14.40
MAJOR CADEAUX would have carried the NH stopping weight of twelve stones to victory against these rivals a couple of years ago but nothing remains as it once was whereby the ex-Richard Hannon five-year-old will be offered at what might appear a generous price. I find myself in 'watching brief' mode because I cannot oppose what was one of my favourite horses from yesteryear though equally, it's difficult to back the horse until winning form has been regained.
15.10
As a stats anorak in the extreme, I have to support Mark Johnston's Motivator runner MOONBALEJ despite an ordinary effort on his debut when sent off as a no-hoper at 40/1. Why? Mark has saddled four of the five winners of this contest to date whilst securing the silver medal on the 'missing occasion'. SABANDER BLEUE and THINK ITS ALL OVER are the potential party poopers in the line up.
15.40
Three-year-olds have won three of the four contests to date whereby FIRST BAY and GAILY NOBLE (the only two junior representatives in the line up) are inked in with a degree of confidence.
16.10
Three-year-olds have done the business in this race as well, given that the last six renewals have gone the way of the junior representatives. Four three-year-olds line up on this occasion, the trio preferred offered up as PETROVSKY, ANTIGUA SUNRISE and SANCTUARY in marginal order of preference.
16.40
The Val Royal gelding VALID POINT completed his hat trick at Wolverhamton but don't let that put you off a horse which has several entries to come this week, as is the habit of Sir Mark Prescott when he has a useful horse at his disposal. MY GIRL JODE and course and distance winner SHIFTING GOLD are feared most on this occasion.
17.10
Kieren Fallon hangs on for the lucky last event and his mount SLEEPY BLUE OCEAN demands interest via his victory last time out at Haydock, albeit that over one hundred days have lapsed since the success was gained. Course and distance winners LIBERTY TRIAL and CHEYANNE RED would be the nominations if Kieren's mount drfited like a barge on Sunday morning.
Newmarket Horse Racing Tips -- Saturday 19/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.15: MALT OR MASH
nb- 15.40: SAGA DE TERCEY
13.45
GOOD GORSOON continues to attract money despite having flattered to deceive so many times but there is this 'knowing' that he will pop up at a decent price one day though whther it will be Saturday is entirely another matter. More logical winners include FLEETING STAR and LUCY BROWN.
14.25
Although letting me down already once this season, I have to remain loyal to STORYLAND who has so much ability, albeit plenty is kept to herself on so many occasions. Three-year-olds often get the better of their older rivals in these mixed vintage handicap events (as was the case last year) whereby ARCOLA and BRIEF LOOK are added to the mix in this 'dead eight' event.
15.00
The last three winners of this 0-100 handicap carried weights of 8-11 or more and I expect the trend to continue via MISDAQEYA or HONIMIERE. If the stats are to go pear shaped, the Epsom winner DOME ROCKET is offered as the speculative call via the quartet of relevant raiders.
15.40
Alan Swinbank has his team in good form as his eight declarations for Saturday would confirm. The fact that Alan sends three runners down to Newmarket speakes volumes for their chances and SAGA DE TERCEY is fancied to go well again on his seventh appearance. A winner of four of his six races to date (silver medallist on the other two occasions), the four-year-old would be a leading contender for the Cesarewitch if winning this 'trial event' with something to spare. The potential party poopers are AARJEL and BERNIE THE BOLT.
16.15
Five-year-olds have won both renewals to date and with MALT OR MASH being the only vintage representing on this occasion, Richard Hannon's raider is the first name on my short list. TANTO FAZ is offered up as the tentative alternative selection.
16.50
Four-year-olds have held the call via the two contests thus far whereby CREDIT SWAP is nominated in his quest for a four-timer. The Diktat raider's chance is helped by the seven pound claimer in the saddle. MOUNTAIN CAT and THIEF OF TIME might offer most resistance close home.
17.25
Rae Guest has won with four of the last nine runners he has saddled at the time of writing whereby CORTON CHARLEMAGNE must be kept on the right side, comments which (arguably) are relevant to the likes of OCEAN BLAZE and EVELYN MAY.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider in the Ayr Gold Cup:
15.10: FOL HOLLOW, TOMBI and MADAME TROP VITE
Newmarket Horse Racing Tips -- Friday 18/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.00: DHERGHAAM
e/w- 16.50: IPSWICH LAD
14.00
The first of seven two-year-old races which form the whole card at Newmarket as racing reverts back to thr Rowley Mile course at 'headquarters'. Where did the July Course campaign go? There is no truth to the rumour that time moves faster as you are growing older despite the fact that I referred to our local policeman the other day as 'James minor'. Upwards and onwards in positive mode by suggesting that the Exceed And Excel colt DHERGHAAM should take the beating, whilst nominating two newcomers to keep an eye on, namely DEVER DREAM and SIDE GLANCE. William Haggas (DEVER DREAM) has wasted no time at all to avail himself of the services of Kosei Miura who rode two winners from four rides at the weekend.
14.30
John Gosden has secured four of the nine renewals and though GERTRUDE BELL has failed to send any positive smoke signals my way, anything that John saddles in this event should be kept on the right side. Henry Cecil has won two of the last three contests whereby TIMEPIECE has to be taken seriously, whilst ELLBEEDEE completes my trio against the interesting field. Richard Hannon's pair Golden Aria and Half Sister any vying for the reserve nomination at the time of writing.
15.05
Mark Johnston (SEA LORD) and Mick Channon (UNIVERSAL CIRCUS) cannot be separated at the top of the Nursery table at the time of writing with seven winners apiece and this pair will represent yours truly come sun up. Stats aside, AUDACITY OF HOPE would probably take the beating having come from well off the pace to score at Doncaster last week. It's worth noting that Kieren Fallon retains the ride having ridden the top weight with supreme confidence on Town Moor.
15.40
Mark Johnston saddles three runners in the 'Timeform Millions', the pick of which might prove to be LOWDOWN and WAVEBAND who are marginally preferred in the order as listed. The two non Johnston raiders to inlcude appear to be SOCIETY ROCK and ROBINSON CRUSO.
16.15
It's highly likely that I will chance the unraced pair, given that the four horses to have visited a racecourse to date have only shown reasonable form thus far. VERDANT (Singspiel has sired a couple of 2YO winners already this week) and ESSEXBRIDGE (Avonbridge colt--sire having a great first season) represent the yards of Stoute and Hannon respectively, whereby value for money might prove difficult to obtain.
16.50
Seven different trainers have secured victories since the inaugural contest back in 2002 and I expect Andrew Balding to become the eighth successful handler, as IPSWICH LAD caught the eye when running on at the business end of the contest on his debut at Chepstow just eight days ago. Three of the last five favourites have obliged and horses that should run well from the front end of the market include WIGMORE HALL and WHISTLE BLOWER.
17.25
LEITZU, FIRST CAT and LETHAL COMBINATION represent the successful nursery yards of Richard Hannon, Mick Channon and William Haggas respectively and this trio look guaranteed to offer up a winning challenge between them somewhere inside the final quater of a mile of this nine furlong contest, the longest two-year-old race of the year thus far. For those of you that are unaware of the maximum distance for two-year-olds, ten furlongs is the longest test during the course of their first season.
Yarmouth Horse Racing Tips -- Thursday 17/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.10: AKMAL
e/w- 15.10: BLINKA ME
14.10
Mark Johnston still holds a couple of entries this week for his Oasis Dream colt SIR FRANK WAPPAT but the trainer appears to have found a decent each way opportunity for the late May foal at the first time of asking. NOTICE GIVEN and MAGNIFICENCE are the experience runners which might offer most resistance to the debutante with Ongoodform offered up as the overnight reserve.
14.40
The nine winners during the last decade were all returned at odds of 9/1 or less, stats which include three winning favourites. Henry Cecil's Indian Ridge colt RIGIDITY ran well at the first time of asking when securing a silver medal and though some cut in the ground would have been advantageous for the March foal, Tom Queally's mount looks primed to go one better. Godolphin's Cape Cross gelding BAB AL SHAMS is well entered up and this mile trip might be the minimum requirement given his Derby entry.
15.10
Mark Tompkins has secured two of the last three renewals of this selling Nursery event and with BLINKA ME representing the stable this time around, Mark has a chance of notching a hat trick in the contest. The Tiger Hill colt is partnered by Neil Callan who remains one of the most underrated pilots in the business, despite the fact that he has ridden seven hundred winners in the last five years! All five winners have carried 8-9 or more which eliminates the bottom four horses in the handicap, whereby LADY LEFROY and RAKHINE are nominated as the chief dangers to the speculative each way selection.
15.40
Although only seven runners have been declared to face the starter, this Nursery event (sponsored by a Nursery) is no easier to solve than the other three juvenile races on the card. EMMA DORA and NEWBURY STREET can only be offered in tentative fashion in this 'short field' event.
16.10
Three-year-olds have won all three renewals of this mixed vintage handicap event, yet only John Dunlop's Selkirk gelding AKMAL represents the juniors this time around. VALMARI was highly tried in a Knavesmire event last time out whereby Clive Brittain's local raider is nominated as the main threat to the selection.
16.40
The three horses at the top of the handicap are the only 'qualifiers' via the positive weight stats and SABORIDO and VEILED stand out from the crowd. VEILED attempts to win her third race within a calendar month whilst SABORIDO comes to the gig on a hat trick.
17.10
Three and four-year-olds have won five of the last seven renewals between them and the trio of EQUINITY, SCRUFFY SKIP and BOUNDLESS APPLAUSE should offer decent efforts for collective investors.
17.45
Seven of the last eight winners carried weights of 8-11 or more whereby AVEROO, WELSH OPERA and TITUS GENT are nominated as my trio against the field in the finale.
Beverley Racing Tips -- Wednesday 16/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.45: POINT OF LIGHT
nb- 17.20: RASCAL IN THE MIX
14.00
A typically tough opening Beverley event and a two-year-old handicap just for good measure! It would be churlish in the extreme to challenge the bias towards high numbered runners from a stalls perspective, whereby by quartet against the field consists of SUMMA CUM LAUDE, ZELOS DREAM, PRETTIEST STAR and DOWER GLEN. ZELOS DREAM hails from the superior sector of the handicap given that all three winners have carried 9-5 or more to victory and Rae Guest's Redback filly would be the call from a win perspective if pushed to make a single selection.
14.35
Richard Hannon has found a winning opportunity for his (Kempton) beaten favourite and as a late May foal, the Elusive Quality colt (sire had another juvenile winner on Tuesday) should prevail. Besty will come on for the initial outing though more logical dangers to the selection appear to be FINAL OVATION and LAYLA'S LEXI in this moderate maiden event.
15.10
The last five winners have carried 8-13 or more which eliminates seven of the seventeen runners (41.1%) if you take the stats seriously. ANGELO POLIZIANO, PENINSULAR WAR, SIR NOD and HYSTERICAL LADY are my specualtive quartet against the field.
15.45
Five of the last six winners have been burdened with a minimum of 8-9 whereby POINT OF LIGHT and UPTON SEAS make most appeal via the three 'qualifiers' in this year's renewal. The Pivotal gelding POINT OF LIGHT has no less than six additional races on her entries list over the next five days whereby nobdoy could accuse Sir PMark Prescott of not taking advantage of a horse at the top of its form!
16.20
Logic suggests that the 4-3-2 sequence relating to the form of SILENT SECRET should enable the Dubai Destination filly to score here and though that might well be the case, the 6/4 quote in the trade press fails to attract this potential player. Mark Johnston rules the roost in the juvenile sector at Beverley whereby his Fruits Of Love newcomer ALWAYS DE ONE cannot be ignored, whilst WHIRLY DANCER and NAFURA are two experienced Newmarket representatives that should figure prominently.
16.50
The Cherokee Run newcomer INDIAN VALLEY would not have to be overly precocious to become involved at the business end of the contest given the mediocrity of this event. Rae Guest saddles the potential market leader in the opening race whereby there could be stable money running onto this April foal, certainly from an each way perspective. EPIC and I'M SUPER TOO are feared most.
17.20
Three-year-olds often get the better of their older rivals in these mixed vintage events, as was the case in the inaugural running of this race twelve months ago. The forecast was also landed via vintage representatives and the pick of this year's five junior raiders might prove to be RASCAL IN THE MIX. ZAPLAMATION is the fairly obvious danger whilst CARPE DIEM is the speculative each way call in the contest.
17.55
Richard Fahey landed the first contest twelve months ago and the trainer could follow up by landing this classified event via his Diktat filly PACIFIC BAY. ROSE CHEVAL and TROPICAL DUKE should offer most resisance at the business end of the contest.
Haydock Horse Racing Tips -- Tuesday 15/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.00: ELUSIVE SUE
e/w- 15.30: MASTER ROONEY
14.30
With just two bronze medals gained via six outings to date, many readers/punters might be ready to ditch OLYMPIC CEREMONY but I'll give Richard Fahey's raider one last chance in the saloon. Kieren Fallon is an eye catching booking for the Linda Stubbs raider BRONZE BEAU and I believe the Kyllachy gelding deserves to win a race before his juvenile season is out. FAWLEY GREEN is preferred to Confessional in making up my trio against the field.
15.00
Richard Fahey is the only represented trainer to have saddled more than one winner at Haydock this season and ELUSIVE SUE certainly merits consideration in this contest. Two runner up efforts were followed by an outing in a hot race at York which has already produced subsequent winners at a decent level. Four of the last six runners saddled by William Haggas have won (at the time of writing) and each and every one of them was contesting a juvenile event. The stats suggest that the Pivotal colt REDDEN could be ready to run well at the first time of asking. I would need to see CALL TO ARMS running on an even keel before investing in Mark Johnston's Shamardal colt following his 4/11 demise last time out when pulling for too much for his own good. At least the exchanges offers hope to people who suffered severe burns to their fingers.
15.30
This is a case of sifting through horses that have lost their form or been off the track for a while, possibly having the resolve to come back and beat more fancied rivals. My speculative trio against the field accordingly is MASTER ROONEY, FISHFORCOMPLIMENTS and BARONS SPY.
16.00
Older horses got the better of the junior raiders in the inaugural contest twelve months ago and a similar scenario could be on the cards this time around. CAPE VALE and AVONTUUR are marginally preferred to DARK LANE accordingly.
16.30
Horses right at the top of the handicap dominated proceedings last year and TRIP THE LIGHT, HADA MEN and HAARTH SOVEREIGN all possess decent chances on the best of their form.
17.00
A desperate 'getting out stakes' for racegoers whereby admission money should be reduced given the fact that punters have little chance of finding 'safe waters' if they have waded in too deep before the finale. IBROX, RANDAMA BAY and SOUNDBYTE are offered in tentative fashion.
Leicester Horse Racing Tips -- Monday 14/09/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.00: FOLLETTA
nb- 16.30: WHITE DART
14.30
FILWA has a second to none chance of landing Brian Meehan with his second juvenile success at Leicester this seasion but that said, I wouldn't part with cash to back the Invincible Spirit filly given her three defeats to date. I have no obvious alternatives to offer but from a toteplacepot perspective, MERCHANT OF MEDICI and YAWARY might fit your requirements, especially if you are attempting to get through to the second leg of with wager with (hopefully) the favourite finishing out of the frame.
15.00
High numbers are often favoured at Leicester in decent sized fields and with Richard Hannon sharing the lead at the head of the juvenile table at the course this year, FOLLETTA enters the equation despite being one of the 'lesser lights' in the yard this season. Others to consider given the draw factor include PRECIOUS CORAL and STORM HAWK.
15.30
Official figures suggest that TRAPHALGAR and BUDDIST MONK have several pounds in hand of their rivals and the pair are listed in order of preference, given the trade press quote which suggests that Paul Cole's four-year-old is the value for money call. WORLD TIME looks booked for third place.
16.00
The two winners have carried weights of 8-12 or more to date and the chances of both recent scorers HIGHTIME HEROINE and HAND PAINTED are respected. JORDAURA appears to be the logical danger.
16.30
WHITE DART showed plenty of promise when making late headway in a much better race at Newmarket last time out and given the Nursery status of this event, Mick Channon's Rakti colt has to be included in my mix.
Mick leads the handicap stats in the juvenile sector at the time of writing whereby Chris Catlin's mount deserves top billing from a toteplacepot perspective at the very least.
BLACK DADDY and BLUE AVON are each way options to contemplate.
17.00
A three-year-old which has been beaten on all five starts to date hardly represents the billing of 'a good thing' on the card but such is the moderate nature of this event, MOONBEAM DANCER should reward brave investors on this occasion. I cannot be counted among their number though equally, I'm stuggling to nominate threats to the favourite.
17.30
Five of the six horses to have secured toteplacepot positions carried 8-13 or more (including both winners) which eliminates the bottom four horses in the handicap if you take the stats seriously following just two renewals. This self confessed anorak will adhere to the trends by nominating EDGEWORTH, HEL'S ANGEL and SILENT OASIS against the field.
Free Tips for Ffos Las -- Sunday 13/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.55: ACT OF KALANISI
nb- 16.30: PAISLEY
14.10
Providing Kieren Fallon can find his way to the welsh vanue on time, Luca Cumani's newcomer CHEETAH should go close in a race which should not take a great deal of winning. Beaten favourite LA VILLE LUMIERE sets the moderate standard which allows connections of LOST HORIZON to become confident of a prominent showing.
14.45
Beaten favourite SHARAAYEEN has to be given another chance in a contest which is high on numbers but probably short on class. HARLESTONE TIMES and LOVERS CAUSEWAY might offer most resistance close home.
15.20
A long season appeared to catch up with Mick Channon's 'Brocklesby' runner up Archers Road on Friday and the scenario might be true of Leleyf here. I prefer the trio of KINGS APPRAOCH, RUTHIE BABE and MIJAS PLAYA, one of the few course and distance winners that exist at Ffos Las to date.
15.55
Mark Johnston could be bound for Wales on Sunday with ACT OF KALANISI holding an obvious chnce on the fourth race on the card. The trainers saddles what many might view as the main danger to the selection in the shape of PETROVSKY, whilst SEHOY could reward each way investors.
16.30
The sire Pivtoal was responsible for two of the eleven juvenile winners on a busy day for two-year-olds on Thursday and representative PAISLEY might follow up his Salisbury victory here in the hands of Kieren Fallon. BAVARICA and IN SECRET are alternative options if you want to take on the possible favourite.
17.05
The ex-champion stays to the bitter end whereby it's hoped that MILTON OF CAMPSIE gives connections a decent run for their entry money. ANDRASTA amd MONEYSUPERMARKET are not overly talented but that said, this is a moderate finale.
Chester Horse Racing Tips -- Saturday 12/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.05: RELATIVE STRENGTH
nb- 15.15: TRAFFIC GUARD
14.15
The last six market leaders have won this event and beaten favourite LAURELDEAN SPIRIT has SPINNING SPIRIT and MEDICINAL COMPOUND to beat, presuming that War Angel will require this first outing.
14.45
Richard Hannon attempts to win this race for the third time in the last four years, though ROYAL BOX will have to step up on his latest (Kempton) outing when drifting like a barge before finishing out of the frame. BAB AT THE BOWSTER and DEMONSTRATIVE are the potential party poopers on this occasion.
15.15
TRAFFIC GUARD is well up to giving the weight away successfully and with Paul Cole's team beginning to hit decent form, the five-year-old is selected. HATTON FLIGHT is feared most.
15.55
My self imposed ruling of making a single nomination in 'win only' races haunts me with such little winning form with which to work in this event. Beaten favourite CLOUDY START is fancied to give Henry Cecil a victory on the card, hopefully within an hour of the trainer saddling the St Leger winner.
16.30
Course and distance winner SUPERMASSIVE MUSE is one of those horses that I repeatedly include in my mix for some reason. Ed McMahon's four-year-old last won on this course over twelve months ago but the form of the race reads well with Bo McGinty being the closest rival that day. EXCELLENT SHOW is not too badly boxed in trap six (of eleven) whilst RIO COBOLO completes my trio against the field.
17.05
Six of the eight winners have carried weights of 9-4 whereby beaten favourite RELATIVE STRENGTH is given another chance. DOUBLY GUEST is a difficult horse to catch right which offers DRUSSELL a chance of securing a cheque for connections of one description or another.
17.40
I wouldn't care to choose between Richard Fahey's pair TRUMPSTOO and DR JAMIESON but that said, WILBURY STAR might take the beating.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider at Doncaster:
14.25: NORTHERN DARE--PAVERSHOOZ--SANTO PADRE
15.00: FATHER TIME and MOURAYAN
15.35: STIMULATION
16.05: WE'LL COME and ESPIRITU
16.40: DROMORE
Epsom Tips -- Friday 11/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.05: LIFE'S CHALLENGE
e/w- 14.50: DAZED AND AMAZED
14.15
Please excuse my going into personal overdrive as I love looking into the naming of juveniles during the course of the season. The name of CEREAL KILLER is one of the best I have come across this season, especially as Richard Hannon's Xaar colt is out of a Snap Crackle Pop mare! Onwards and upwards by suggesting that Pat Dobbs has made the most of his opportunities for the yard this week and CERIAL KILLER could be another winner for the underrated pilot, though Sir Michael Stoute's Medicean newcomer RACY might take some beating, albeit the January foal will require a distance of ground sooner rather than later. WELLINGTON FAIR is offered up as the each way horse in the contest if you are looking for one.
14.50
DAZED AND AMAZED is long overdue a victory and with Richard Hannon having pulled more rabbits out of his hat this week, the five-year-old could be yet another winner for the yard. ROYAL INTRUDER is the logical danger, but since when did logic have anything to do with the sport of horse racing? NOMOREBLONDES completes my trio against the field, especially from a potentially each way perspective in this 'dead eight' event.
15.25
It might take a particularly smart newcomer to lower the colours of the Motivator colt HOT PROSPECT who ran a fine race in defeat at York at the first time of asking. The Michael Jarvis raider will appreciate this additional furlong whilst the winner has subsequently scored again. LAJIDAAL and SPOKEN are expected to pay their way eventually and connections might just hope for a reasonable effort against a potentially smart juvenile on this occasion.
16.00
Barry Hills has saddled two of the last four winners of this event and CHAPTER AND VERSE is not without an each way chance. More logical winners in the line up include STOIC and ALBAHER.
16.35
All three winners have carried weights of 9-4 or less whereby my trio against the other six contenders are PALACEFIELD, POYLE MEG and TRULY ASIA.
17.05
The Mr Greeley filly LIFE'S CHALLENGE looked a half decent three-year-old in the making when recording a seven length victory at Pontefract on fast ground at the first time of asking. Apart from travelling the other way around, Pontefract and Sandown are similar tracks to a fashion, whereby the uphill finish should not deter punters from wading into Mark Johnston's raider. Course and distance winner SENSES shoudl not be ignored whilst SOMETHING PERFECT could run into place money again.
Potential 'outsiders' to consider at Doncaster:
13.35: MISTER MANANNAN
14.40: DEUTSCHLAND
15.50: MUSAALEM
Epsom Tips -- Thursday 10/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.00: DIDDUMS
nb- 14.45: FIVE CENTS
14.10
Beaten favourite L'ENCHANTERESSE and David Simcock's Compton Place filly ART SUMMER have shown that they are vulnerable to horses with a finishing kick already and the Godolphin newcomer AQUA VITAE might be the party pooper for both sets of connections on this occasion.
14.45
Although beaten seven lengths on his debut effort, the Exceed And Excel colt FIVE CENTS has gained valuable experience of the Epsom camber whereby the March foal could snare a quick double on the card for the famous blue blue colours if Aqua Vitae has initiated the potential scenario earlier in the afternoon. WHITE DEVIL might chase home the selection if Mark Johnston's Azamour newcomer RAWNAQ is in need of the run.
15.20
Regular readers will be aware of my policy to put pilots first in this type of event whereby the trio that will represent yours truly this time around are SEVENTH HEAVEN, EPSOM SALTS and YONDER.
15.55
Mark Johnston raiders can never be ignored at this venue whereby PEGASUS LAD has to involved in the mix, David Probert's mount being joined by CHEAM FOREVER on this occasion. David has only ridden for Mark on two previous occasions and it could be a case of third time lucky for the partnership.
16.30
A typical Epsom handicap which on paper looks appealing but somehow such events offer bookmakers a lifeline at the meeting. My tentative trio consists of OGRE, COMPTON'S ELEVEN and KEN'S GIRL.
17.00
John Hills has his team in fine form at the time of writing whereby DIDDUMS demands to be included in the equation. Course and distance winner THEATRE STREET is feared most.
Epsom Tips -- Wednesday 09/09/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.10: ON THE BOUNTY
nb- 15.20: LIVELY FLING
14.10
Richard Fahey's last six winners (at the time of writing) were two-year-olds whereby I will not be putting a line through the name of ON THE BOUNTY by any means. More logical winners include MASTER OF DANCE and BAGAMOYO though anything goes on the Epsom camber whereby the form book can be of little use in general terms, especially when relating to two-year-olds.
14.45
Five of the six runners have gained experience already, though we do not appear to have a superstar amongst the sextet. It goes without saying that David Simcock's Arch newcomer DUBAI PHANTOM would not have be particularly precocious to become involved in the finish but that said, the March colt is equipped with blinkers on his debut which does not inspire confidence. My tentative duo against the field in the circumstances is REALISATION and HIREARCH.
15.20
All three winners of this 3YO handicap to date have carried weights of 9-2 or more whereby this year's only two 'qualifiers' LIVELY FLING and ZAAQYA are immediately included in my mix. The race has lost its 'dead eight' status with the defection of the northern raider Upton Seas.
15.55
Ten of the twelve horses to have secured toteplacepot positions to date carried weights of 9-0 or less (including three of the four winners) whereby CONSTANT CHEERS, POTENTIALE and KALEO will represent yours truly on Wednesday in this potential 'dead eight'
event.
16.30
A new race on the Epsom card which is unlikely to have a renewal twelve months on only having attracted five (moderate) horses at the first time of asking. Beaten favourite MONETARY FUND might even be good enough to snare the prize, possibly having most to fear from KESSRAA.
17.00
This seven furlong trip is not the easiest race to ride as you might imagine and three experienced riders are taken to snare the spoils at the expense of fancied apprentice ridden horses. DADDY'S GIFT, ERMINE AND VELVET and HI SHINKO are the tentative selections.
Goodwood Tips -- Tuesday 08/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.30: SATWA LAIRD
nb- 15.10: AATTASH
14.00
Regular readers will be aware of the stance I adopt in these amateur rider races whereby I consider the pilot to be the main factor, which brings BELL ISLAND, MORBICK and MAKE AMENDS into the mix. The three horses are listed in order of preference.
14.35
Ten of the sixteen declared runners have gained experience to date but SILENT SECRET and YAZOO aside, the form does not amount to much whereby newcomers such as NAMASKAR and JUWIREYA could become competitive at the business end of the contest.
15.10
Mick Channon has stolen a (minimal) march on Richard Hannon in the Nursery sector at the time of writing whereby AATTASH should attract plenty of business at potentially rewarding odds. Richard saddles two runners here however (AVON LADY and CULTURED PRIDE) and this trio will do for me against the field, especially with Mark Johnston not being represented. The afore mentioned trio have saddled an aggregate of nineteen two-year-old handicap winners this term which equates to twenty four per cent of the Nursery events contested this season.
15.45
Luca Cumani has his team at the top of their form right now, which has coincided with Keiren Fallon's return. The duo have already teamed up to winning effect whereby dual winner FIELD DREAM demands to be included in the mix. MON CADEUX and TIMELY JAZZ are offered up as significant dangers whilst it's too soon to write off VALE OF YORK just yet.
16.20
Favourites have won three of the last nine renewals during which time the biggest priced winner was returned at 10/1, with eight gold medallists being sent off at a maximum price of 9/2. Any number of potential winners line up this time around however and it's difficult to even produce a short list. My tentative trio consists of BOWSERS BEAU, DAY OF THE EAGLE and Sir Michael Stoute's beaten favourite CUSTODY.
16.55
Three-year-olds come to the party on a hat trick and wouldn't you just know it, the only vintage raider (SPRING ADVENTURE) on this occasion is ridden by Kieren Fallon who was riding at the top of his form at Folkestone on Tuesday. SARAH PARK had been threatening to win a race for a while before landing an Epsom handicap a few weeks back whilst similar comments apply to beaten favourite EFFIGY who has snared just two gold medals via twenty eight opportunities to date.
17.30
A similar scenario applies to this finale whereby Kieren Fallon has been booked to ride the only junior runner in the line up; Ed Dunlop's Johannesburg colt SATWA LAIRD. Three-year-olds have won two of the last three renewals whereby it's difficult to understand why Ed is the only represented trainer of a junior raider in the field. Four of the five winners have carried weights of 9-1 or less, and joining SATWA LAIRD from that sector of the handicap are WHITE DEER and TUXEDO.
Folkestone Tips -- Monday 07/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.50: FISADARA
nb- 16.20: SAHAAL
14.20
Although only four runners line up for this event, the race will take plenty of winning, whilst it's worth noting that last year's 7/4 favourite in a 'win only' event finished last of four. It might have been difficult to determine exactly which horse would go off as market leader before the exchanges came along, but ART SCHOLAR is (somewhat surprisingly) a warm 10/11 chance at the time of writing.
14.50
The last three winners of this event have started at odds of 3/1 or less (two winning favourites) whilst the trio of market leaders all finished in the frame. This year's race has 'bookmakers race' written all over it however whereby horses at the front end of the betting represent little or no value. If you must have a best, BEST SHOW might serve best from an each way perspective. Others to consider include newcomers DIAM QUEEN and AVON LADY.
15.20
Non runner Querido has reduced this potential 'dead eight' event down to a 'short field' whereby a lot of the betting interest in the contest has disappeared. BILLBERRY might get the better of DANCER'S LEGACY close home with horses down towards the bottom of the handicap preferred.
15.50
The Bold Fact gelding MAGICAL SPEEDFIT has been a frustrating horse and I guess if anyone can galvanise the four-year-old to return to winning form it is Kieren Fallon. TEN DOWN would be my speculative each way call whilst a more logical danger to the tentative selection is CORTON CHARLEMAGNE.
16.20
Marcus Tregoning has his team in half decent form whereby his Rahy colt SAHAAL should build on his recent Bath victory. Three other horses in the line up also scored last time out however which should ensure that SAHAAL does not have things all his own way. The main dangers on this occasion might prove to be ORDONEY and MASTER FONG.
16.50
All three winners to date carried 8-11 and FISADARA is the obvious choice via this year's two qualifiers. CLUNY has been off the track for the thick end of four months but remains the most likely danger to the selection.
York Tips -- Sunday 06/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.10: MALT OR MASH
e/w- 16.20: AMANDA CARTER
14.00
The weight stats suggest that WILLIAM MORGAN might struggle to follow up his Redcar success as all four winners of this race to date have carried 9-1 or more. That said, Richard Fahey has his team in good form and though the stats will prevent me from having a bet from a win perspective, I am likely to include Paul Hanagan's mount in my toteplacepot permutation. Stable companion BAHAMIAN MUSIC sits in the correct sector of the weights whilst others to consider towards the top of the handicap include EJAAB and LEVIATHAN.
14.35
MOORHOUSE GIRL arguably sets the standard via the seven experienced runners in the line up though Mark Johnston's Makbul newcomer MARIUS MAXIMUS would not have to be particularly precocious to become involved in the finish. COOLMINX (Richard Fahey) and WALVIS BAY (Tom Tate) are other horses to consider at the first time of asking.
15.10
MALT OR MASH took time to get the upper hand at Newbury last time out but Richard Hannon's five-year-old got the job done and the Black Minnaloushe raider might go in again with the ground drying in his favour at the time of writing. CHARLIE TOKYO and TRAPHALGAR are feared most.
15.45
Three and four-year-olds have won seven of the last eight renewals with the older vintage representatives leading 4-3 during the period. Bryan Smart's pair of junior raiders ABLE MASTER and MASTER ROONEY have to be taken seriously with the yard beginning to get their act back on the road again, whilst four-year-olds HARRISON GEORGE and ETON RIFLES are added to the overnight mix.
16.20
AMANDA CARTER ran a fine race for a 33/1 outsider on the Knavesmire last time out and this event represents a drop of two grades, albeit Richard Fahey's five-year-old was unplaced when last tackling this class of contest. With a half decent three pound claimer in the plate, the Tobougg mare looks sure to figure prominently up the home straight. Others for the short list include SIMONSIDE, DEAUVILLE FLYER and FIN VIN DE LEU.
16.50
Four of the last five renewals have been won by horses carrying 9-1 or less which reduces the field down from twenty to six if you take the stats seriously. OH SO SAUCY, DESERT FALLS and CELTIC LYNN are nominated accordingly, whilst offering WITHOUT PREJUDICE as the overnight reserve.
17.20
Aside from STATESIDE who represents Richard Fahey whose form has been rock solid all season, Brian Ellsion (ELITE LAND), John Quinn (LESLINGTAYLOR) and Mark Tompkins (FORCE GROUP) have also been sending out winners for fun of late. The four trainers boast aggregate stats of 20/146 (13.7%) within the last fortnight at the time of writing, which compares favourably to collective figures of 6/95 (6.3%) via the other represented handlers.
Kempton Tips -- Saturday 05/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.50: ASCENDANT
nb- 14.40: KIRKLEES
14.40
KIRKLEES holds ALL THE ACES in more ways than one in this Group 3 event which is not the race it once was unfortunately. Connections of the Godolphin representative will not mind one jot however with the thick end of forty grand up for ghrabs for the winner with CURTAIN CALL perhaps offering most resistance up the home straight in receipt of two pounds from Frankie's mount.
15.10
Four-year-olds have won all three renewals of this handicap event to date, whilst securing seven of the eleven available win and place positions for good measure. The pick of the four vintage representatives on this occasion should prove to be course and distance winner FANCY FOOTSTEPS and Mark Johnston's northern raider TARTAN GIGHA. THE SNATCHER and VAINGLORY are also added to the overnight mix.
15.45
An interesting conditions event and no mistake as newcomers Conduct and On The Cusp would be of great interest in an ordinary maiden event. Ordinary event this is not however with impressive winners QUADRILLE and CIRCUMVENT in the line up, not withstanding the participation of Jeremy Noseda's dual silver medallist AWESOME ACT. The three experienced horses are marginally listed in order of preference.
16.20
Another sixteen runner handicap to assess which has kept the midnight oil running well into early/mid morning. Horses carrying 9-2 or less have secured six of the seven available toteplacepot positions in this event to date (including both winners) whereby coupled with a supposedly decent draw, my quartet against the field comprises of LEONALDO, AUDEMAR, PRAYER BOAT and THE SCORCHING WIND.
16.50
Runners carrying 9-1 or more have claimed six of the available seven win and place positions to date (including both winners) and ASCENDANT and beaten favourite HARLESTONE SNAKE fit the bill on this occasion via the five 'qualifiers'. ASCENDANT would be a typical Sir Mark Prescott improver over a distance of ground should the Medicean gelding oblige, whilst noticing that the April foal also has an engagement on York's Sunday agenda.
17.25
Three-year-olds have won all three contests to date and I see no reason why the likes of TINAAR, SWEET HOLLOW and DUBAI STORMING should not extend the trend between them.
Kempton Tips -- Friday 04/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 21.20: LADY HESTIA
nb- 19.50: EOLITH
17.45
It's unusual to find a Nursery event split into two divisions but as a supporter of two-year-old handicaps, I'm not objecting to the scenario. I will be looking to oppose Candyfloss Girl in all probability whereby ROSEDALE, WASMI and COOLREE STAR are my trio against the field.
18.20
Keiron Fallon makes the quick dash from Lingfield to Kempton to ride WIGAN LANE and Fallon's mount appears to have a favourites chance, albeit in a competitive event on paper. REACH FOR THE SKY and FASILIGHT are expected to be among the leading potential party poopers on this occasion.
18.50
Jungle drums have been beating for some time now relating to the Marju colt MUSAAFER, a well entered January foal who is likely to contest Ascot's Group 2 'Royal Lodge' later this month if running well here on his debut. The other potentially exciting newcomer is PLATO who is a son of BAGO, the 'Arc' winner back in 2004 who is now producing his first runners as a sire. MENDIP adds icing to a potentially tasty cake.
19.20
Sir Michael Stoute saddled his third juvenile winner of the season the other day and this is the time of year when the stable gets into top gear with its juveniles. The Oasis Dream filly ALICE ALLEYNE is Michael's representative on this occasion and the February foal should run well without being 'knocked about'. PIN CUSHION will win her maiden before the year is out I'll wager , though whether it will be in this contest remains to be seen, especially with other interesting newcomers in the line up including THEREAFTER and the Irish raider SILK SLIPPERS. Richard Hannon's Bold Edge representative ADVENTURE STORY cannot be ignored with Kempton's juvenile stats in place this season, Richard leading the way at the Sunbury venue with four winners already this year.
19.50
EOLITH was a genuinely good winner of a Newmarket race which has produced Listed winners (at least) in each of the last three years whereby the concession of four pounds to her seven rivals should not prove too much of an ask. Jim Crowley's mount won in a fast time on the July Course and though no fancy entries are in place just yet, a second victory would have the Knight team organising a meeting to discuss her future sooner rather than later I'll wager. Newcomers AWASEEF and ELDALIL are others worth noting on an interesting Kempton card, this being the fifth juvenile event of the night.
20.20
SPIRIT OF A NATION deserves top billing following his two victories at the back end of last year and we can presume that Ashley Morgan's mount is not here just to make up the numbers on his seasonal debut given the claim in place via the rider. ROCK ANTHEM also attempts a hat trick in the contest from the bottom end of the weights whilst BOMBER COMMAND is the other each way option to consider.
20.50
The weights and measures act offers course and distance winner SOUNDS OF JUPITER a fine chance of completing his hat trick though CHARM SCHOOL would prove to be a tough nut to crack if he was to revert back to his best form from last year. It's too early to write off the other C/D winner PINCH OF SALT who makes some each way appeal given the trade press quote of 16/1.
21.20
Potential hat tricks dominate the last three races on the card and perhaps LADY HESTIA has the best chance of all to complete the treble. COLOURFUL MOVE and WARRIOR CONQUEST could be mere forecast fodder for the American bred filly if LADY HESTIA continues her progress in the finale.
Epsom Tips -- Thursday 03/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.00: MY KINGDOM
nb- 14.20: GOLD DIAMOND
14.20
Mark Johnston has saddled four Nursery winners within the last week or so which is a remarkable effort given the competitive nature of these two-year-old handicap contests. Mark saddles GOLD DIAMOND with a chance here despite top weight, possibly having most to fear from the likes of BOYCOTT and GOLD FIX.
14.50
With Mark Johnston's Sulamani raider INDOCHINA requiring every inch of this trip, the opportunity for SHAAYEQ to score at the second time of asking appears obvious. That said, I would never 'take odds' about a juvenile that has had just the one outing to date, given the camber of the track at Epsom which has stopped thousands of horses from winning here down the years.
15.25
Five of the six winners of this contest to date have carried weights of 8-13 or less whereby the likes of MIDNIGHT FANTASY and HIGH SHINKO jump off the page relating to this year's four 'qualifiers'.
16.00
I am surprised that just one three-year-old has been declared to take on horses that flatter to deceive more often than not, ZOWINGTON being the prime example. The lone juvenile raider MY KINGDOM might deny the seven-year-old on this occasion whilst the other course winner ROCKER completes my trio against the field.
16.35
With no course winners amongst the eleven declarations and the recent winners in the field arguably up to their maximum respective marks, I can only offer the tentative trio of MAE CIGAN, SPIRIT OF ADJISA and GILDED AGE.
17.10
A 'dead eight' finale and David Evans complicates matters by saddling both Ogre and Penang Cinta. Both horses will attract plenty of support though equally, I could suggest that they are weighted up to their best whereby the trio to home in on from a win and place perspective are DRUM DRAGON, HUCKING HERO and BY COMMAND.
Lingfield Tips -- Wednesday 02/09/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.20: PRIMERA ROSSA
e/w- 16.50: KEEP DANCING
13:50
Three-year-olds have won both renewals and whilst vintage representatives CHERISH THE MOMENT and SAMAAHA do not exactly jump off the page via their seven (aggregate) outings to date, it would be classed as something of a surprise if both horses were beaten.
14.20
The two winning three-year-olds to date have carried next to no weight at all whereby PRIMERA ROSSA holds a serious chance, whilst DEUCE will still attract plenty of support despite being burdened with the 'stopping weight' of ten stones. ALITTLEMOREFLAIR might reward speculative each way investors.
14.50
CHAMPAGNE STYLE should be the answer to this novice event, especially as Brian Meehan's April foal is a half brother to 'dirt winners' in the USA. Course winner RAMAMARA demands attention whilst FOOTSTEPSOFSPRING should secure a cheque of one descrition or another for connections.
15.20
All six win and place positions have been claimed by horses carrying 9-3 or less to date whereby TEMPERENCE HALL, VAMOS and SUPER FOURTEEN should secure the prize between them. Horses drawn high seemingly hold the call and TEMPERENCE HALL (7/11) therefore receives the marginal 'win nomination'.
15.50
This is the second division of the previous race on the card whereby the stats remain in place. Both favourites have finished in the frame without winning to date and horses likely to figure prominently in the market and in the race include AZHARIA, SULTANS WAY and ARTESIUM. I'm inclined to lay the recent Lingfield runner up Baby Josr given his trainer's six per cent strike rate this season.
16.20
Both favourites have been beaten to date (one placed for toteplacepot enthusiasts) and Richard Hannon will be seeking compensation for his odds on market leader which was beaten into second place in this event twelve months ago. FLAPJACK could hardly be classed as one of the leading juvenile lights in the yard this term but that said, this contest will not take a great deal of winning by any means whereby the Trade Fair filly might be up to the task, certainly from an each way perspective at the very least. BELINSKY and BAZSHARANI appear to be the obvious dangers.
16.50
KEEP DANCING was a beaten favourite on her only all weather effort to date but to be entirely fair to the Distant Music filly, Andrew Balding's April foal was only beaten a length at Kempton, form which might be good enough to capture this prize. Course and distance winner HATMAN JACK is included in the mix alongside BOLD RING, my other each way call in the contest.
Beveley Tips -- Sunday 30/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.35: SULWAAN
e/w- 16.15: FOSSGATE
14:00
Course winner GRAZEON GOLD BLEND is well housed in stall nine (of twelve) though the stopping weight of 9-10 will prevent me from staking a wager in the contest. ROYAL DIGNITARY is similarly burdened which might allow BOLD INDIAN to become involved in the finish in receipt of eleven pounds.
14.35
Beaten seven lengths on his debut, the King's Best gelding SULWAAN will only have to make any normal amount of improvement to take a hand in the finish of a race which will not be difficult to win. SABANDER BLEUE and STORM COMMAND are feared most on this occasion.
15.05
OONDIRI would have been a potential outsider to consider with a better draw but trap one (providing heavy ground in not in evidence) is difficult to win from in a thirteen strong field. LICENCE TO TILL (8), SECRET MILLIONAIRE (10) and DUCHESS DORA (12) might best take advantage of their fortunate stall positions.
15.40
A first time visor might make the difference between victory and defeat as far as EXCEEDINGLY GOOD is concerned in what amounts to a moderate event. GEE GINA and SKY HIGH KID both finished second last time out and connections of the horses will know that it will not take a great deal of improvement to go one better here.
16.15
Course and distance winner FOSSGATE has the considerable services of Jamie Kyne who remains great value for his five pound claim. The beaten favourite is given another chance as trap one is not such a disadvantage over this trip, even at this venue! The chance of fellow C/D winenr MISTER FIZZBOMB is respected alongside COOLE DODGER.
16.50
A typically tough closing event at the Yorkshire venue and with no trends to lend a hand (this is a new event on the card), I can only offer the speculative and tentative quartet of VALID POINT, SCREAMING BRAVE, GEROGIE BEE and CHANROSSA.
Goodwood Tips -- Saturday 29/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.10: DELEGATOR
e/w- 14.05: PROCLAIM
14:05
The last four winners of this opening event have carried weights of 9-4 or more whilst seven of the last ten gold medallists were burdened with a minimum weight of 9-2. Mark Johnston saddles his well drawn raider PROCLAIM wearing a first time visor and the three-year-old might be another winner for the trainer at one of his favourite venues. Sixteen potential runners have been declared fortunately which allows me four selections under my self emposed rules, whereby back up to PROCLAIM is offered via course and distance winners PEARLY WAY, OSIRIS WAY and AYE AYE DIGBY.
14.35
This 'dead eight' contest should offer each way 'bets to nothing' via the likes of VICTORIA MONTOYA, OASIS KNIGHT and CLASSIC VINTAGE. I guess that URBAN POET remains the dark horse in the race following just two outings to date but from a value for money perspective, the Godolphin raider makes little appeal.
15.10
DELEGATOR deserves his place at the top of the market given that his last three defeats have been at the hooves of Mastercraftsman (twice) and See The Stars. The older runners in the line up flatter to deceive more often that they produce the goods whereby fellow three-year-old ZACINTO is expected to offer DELEGATOR most resistance close home.
15.45
Course and distance winner WATER BISCUIT only won an ordinary maiden event at the 'Glorious' meeting but nonetheless, Brain Meehan's raider could barely have won with more authority and I could visualise the Bertolini filly giving SIYAADAH a run for her money. That said, Richard Hannon continues to send out juvenile winners for fun whereby FULL MANDATE could be good enough to thwart the afore mentioned pair.
16.20
MAGIC LANTERN, CLOUDY CITY and CRUNCHED might best serve our purposes in this event which is disappointing by Goodwood standards, especially as one of the races supporting the Celebration Mile.
16.55
All ten winners during the last decade have carried weights of 9-7 or less which eliminates the top six runners in the handicap if you take the stats seriously. With thirty per cent of the runners therefore cast aside and taking high drawn runners into consideration, my quartet against the field consists of JEREMIAH, GORDY BEE, SEASONAL CROSS and COMPTON BLUE.
17.30
In direct contrast to the previous race on the card, it is the horses at the foot of the handicap that we can ignore according to the weight stats as all five winners have carried 8-9 or more to date. PRINCIPALITY, THEOLOGIST, MISS DOODLE and LA POLKA should offer investors a decent run for their collective monies.
Bath Tips -- Friday 28/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.40: VANISHING GREY
nb- 18.40: PERSIAN MEMORIES
17:05
CHOCOLATE COOKIE and FILWA would have disappointed connections to a fashion thus far though there is no doubting that both fillies have chances second to none in this five and three quarter furlong event.The potential party pooper in the line up is dual silver medallist LEXI'S LAYLA.
17.40
Brian Meehan (trainer of Filwa in the 5.05 event) has definite prospects of completing a double on the Bath card via VANISHING GREY who probably only needs to reproduce form shown thus far to prevail in a moderate contest. That said, the blue colours of Godolphin are doubly represented by LOVE AND DEVOTION and TIA JUANA though which one of the pair will prove best on this occasion is open to debate.
18.10
Three-year-olds hold a slender 5-4 advantage over the four-year-olds via nine renewals of this event and the pick of the junior raiders on this occasion might prove to be LOCATION and NOORDHOEK KID. SPECIAL CHAPTER is the speculative each way call via the older runners on parade.
18.40
All four favourites have secured toteplacepot positions in this three-year-old handicap but typical of this type of event, just one market leader has prevailed. That said, ten horses returned at odds of 12/1 or more have failed to land the spoils thus far. Vita Mia might have completed her winning run until the handicapper relents, whereby PERSIAN MEMORIES, REGAL BLUSH and SPINNING WATERS are preferred.
19.10
Just three renewals of this event to date and wouldn't you just know it, the shortest priced (even money) market leader was the one favourite to let punters down when finishing fourth of seven twelve months ago. I will probably oppose 'paper favourite' Chadinka with EDITH'S BOY, RAIMOND RIDGE and BATTLE on this occasion.
19.40
All six winners have carried 8-12 or less to date whereby the potential sixteen runner contest becomes managable. LIKE FOR LIKE, SECOND TO NUN, BAHKOV, and SPRING SECRET will represent yours truly accordingly.
Lingfield Tips -- Thursday 27/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.50: RAKAAN
e/w- 16.20: FLYINFLYOUT
14:20
Richard Hannon's incredible bandwagon rolls into town with the trainer having saddled eighteen winners within the last fortnight! LUSH is therefore offered up as the each way selection in a race which will not take a great deal of winning. REHABILITATION and PIPPBROOK GOLD other other win and place considerations at the time of writing.
14.50
Four of the five winenrs to date have carried weights of 8-12 or more which effectively eliminates the bottom four horses in the handicap if you take the stats seriously. HAWK'S EYE, NAVAJO NATION and WILBURY STAR should secure the prize between them from the eight 'qualifiers' on this occasion.
15.20
Both favourites have won this selling event to date and horses towards the top end of the market to consider include GASAT, IFFY and ROSE CHEVAL, though not necessarily in that order.
15.50
RAKAAN is a dual beaten favourite now; hence I can understand punters not wanting to wade into Brian Meehan's likely favourite. That said, his defeat of less
than six lengths by Canford Cliffs earlier in the year reads extremely well in the context of this event whereby the
January foal is given one last chance to atone for losses. ADELE BLANC SEC ran really well on her debut at Windsor
when securing the silver medal and with Tom Dascombe leading the juvenile figures on the all weather track here at
Lingfield this season, the March foal must go close. ALMADAA looks booked for third spot once again.
16.20
POPPY N' PENNY was taken out of a race recently
and William Haggas appears to have found a decent
opporutunity for the Redback filly to lose her maiden tag at
the fifth time of asking. Already a runner up in a Nursery
event, the April foal might only have to match that
Kempton effort here to take care of the opposition. With
Richard Hannon (NEWTON CIRCUS) and Mick Channon
(FLYINFLYOUT) leading the Nursery stats (five winners
apiece) this term, this self confessed anorak will adhere to
the figures and suggest that their representatives are
viable each way alternatives to the selection.
16.50
Horses carrying 9-3 or more have secured all six win
and place positions in the Lingfield finale which makes life
easier, whereby TAGULA NIGHT, SPRING GREEN and course
and distance winner WHISKEY JUNCTION will do for me
against the field.
Warwick Tips -- Wednesday 26/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.00: MYTHICAL BLUE
np- 15.30: NEMO SPIRIT
14:30
A half decent Nursery event via Warwick standards in all honesty and recent scorers TAKE TEN and MARINE SPIRIT should both run well for potential investors. The horses are listed in (marginal) order of preference with GUNDAROO nominated as the pick of the each way contenders.
15.00
Milton Bradley should be congratulated for finding a winning opportunity for MYTHICAL BLUE as the three-year-old let supporters down last time out as a beaten favourite, with investors potentially having the chance to retrieve losses here. Two other junior raiders at the bottom of the list are feared most, namely MAMLAKATI and BAHAMIAN CEILIDH.
15.30
NEMO SPIRIT was taken out of a tougher race the other day and the four-year-old holds a definite squeak in this grade/company, especially if the rain starts to fall as predicted. JUST LILLE is slowly returning to something like a winning mark despite the ten stone 'stopping weight' on this occasion.
16.00
Suffolk Punch will only run if rain does not hit the midlands venue but Andrew Balding's Barathea colt might have plenty of work to do to beat the likes of LAMH ALBASSER and KALAM DALEEL even if conditions are on his side. STAGS LEAP adds interest to proceedings but the top pair in the list might dominate the finish in an interesting Conditions event.
16.30
The Alhaarth gelding ASATEER has already suffered an even money defeat but Barry Hills appears to have found the chance for the February foal to lose his maiden tag at the sixth time of asking. HERECOMETHEGIRLS is the potential party pooper in the line up on this occasion, whilst STEP INTO SUNSHINE completes my trio against the field.
17.00
Roger Charlton has struggled to offer consistent form this season but his horses remain of interest as a general rule, as is the case of BROAD CAIRN whose connections might have most to fear from challenges by SWEET GALE and CLIENTELE up the home straight.
Southwell -- Tuesday 25/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.00: KIND HEART
np- 15.30: MAJESTIC LADY
14:30
A word of warning for those are waiting to pile in on MINGUN BELL in this contest because although Henry Cecil's January foal looks the part in this opening contest, it's worth noting that all seven of Henry's raiders at Southwell in the last five years have been beaten. The potential party pooper this time around appears to be INGLEBY SPIRIT, though Mark Johnston's Sulamani representative EXEMPLARY could be anything I guess.
15.00
Yet more top trainers are involved with this moderate meeting being just one of two venues staging sport today, despite the fact that children (any many parents) remain in holiday mode! How can the powers that be allow both Kempton and Windsor to race yesterday when there is no racing south of Southwell the next day? Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by nominating CIRCUMVENT, PRINCE OF VASA and COMEDY HALL against the field.
15.30
Having trained seven winners in the last fortnight, Barry Hills has his team in decent nick whereby MAJESTIC LADY has to be the call in another modest event on the Southwell card. Course and distance winners MONTE MAYOR EAGLE and DENTON DIVA might offer most resistance inside the final furlong.
16.00
It would be typical for a potential Mark Prescott stayer to start a winning run at this level whereby KIND HEART is given the vote over APPLAUDE. The three-year-old receives six pounds from (seemingly) his only serious opponent despite a superior official mark thanks to the weights and measures act.
16.30
A few in form trainers are represented in this event to take on trade paper favourite Spring Quartet who I will probably lay in the circumstances. Mark Tompkins (ASTROBRAVA), Nick Littmoden (VALKYRIE) and Sir Mark Prescott (ELOISE) are three of the afore mentioned trainers who might snare this prize between them.
17.00
The most competitive event of the day and stakes must be kept on the small side for obvious reasons. My tentative trio against the field consists of three of the five course and distance winners, namely TEVEZ, OCEAN LEGEND and MISS CHRISTOPHENE.
Windsor -- Monday 24/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: MISS WHIPPY
e/w- 17.30: ROBIN THE TILL
14:30
Richard Hannon has won ten of the twenty seven two-year-old races at Windsor this year whereby the chances of KALYPSO KING and (to a lesser extent) DEEPLY PLAZA are respected. Just eight favourites have won at the Berkshire venue this term to date whilst it's only right to reflect upon Richard Hannon's six beaten market leaders. SUNRAIDER and ROBINSON CRUSO are the potential dangers to the Hannon raidders on this occasion.
15.00
SILENT SECRET and FIRST TERM are strong Hannon representatives who might have most to fear from two of the newcomers in this contest, namely FLIP FLOP and GOLD PARTY.
15.30
Potentially poor stall positions relating to MISS WHIPPY and DONTBUGTHEBUNNY are unlikely to stop either horse becoming competitive at the business end of a poor contest. THE GREAT HUSK (11/14) might best take advantage of a good draw unless heavy rain sets in.
16.00
Mick Channon (AATTASH) and Richard Hannon (CAPTAIN COOL) lead the Nursery stats this year with five winners apiece whereby it would be churlish in the extreme to ignore their representatives here, even though the form book suggests they must improve to win this two-year-old handicap. CHERRY BEE is the alternative selection.
16.30
The first non 2YO contest on the card though Richard Hannon remains a man difficult to leave out of the mix. Richard is represented by course and distance winner SPECIAL RESERVE who looks sure to become competitive inside the final quarter of a mile, arguably alongside the likes of SERIOUS IMPACT and EMPEROR COURT.
17.00
LAUGHING BOY is the obvious call though with Luca Cumani's team going through something of a quiet spell of late, I wouldn't be taking odds about the selection if the trade press price of 5/6 proves to be accurate. ZEMARIO would not have to be anythign out of the ordinary to go close at the first time of asking whilst the Barry Hills pair CHERISH THE MOMENT and MILLHARBOUR should get into the race at some stage.
17.30
ROBIN THE TILL is the only three-year-old in the line up (sixteen potential runners) and though the Bold Edge gelding lacks consistency, ability remains intact and Richard Hannon's day could be complete if the February foal can score from his trap six berth. Better drawn raiders with more obvious winning form include MATTEROFACT, COMPTONSPIRIT and BRANDYWELL BOY.
Chester -- Saturday 22/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.25: SUPERMASSIVEMUSE
e/w- 16.40: RANSOM NOTE
14:25
LE TORADOR also holds an entry at Musselburgh on Sunday and a draw of 8/13 is not ideal here. That said, Kevin Ryan's team are coming out of the doldrums slowly but surely and the four-year-old is not without a chance. SUPERMASSIVEMUSE won this event last year and should run another big race from trap four whilst the inside berth belongs to beaten favourite TYFOS. Course and distance winner BERTOLIVER is nominated as the overnight reserve.
14.55
Three of the last four winners carried weights of 9-3 or more and MUNSEF, UNLEASHED and BASALTICO are this year's 'qualifiers' and it would be churlish in the extreme to ignore their claims.
15.30
Each way growlers (John McCririck in particular) will be snarling that two runners have already 'bailed out' whereby just three places are up for grabs. More positive readers might appreciate that two less runners might enable the best horse in the field to win rather than trust to luck around the twists and truns of the Roodee. I'll take CELTIC SULTAN, SURUOR and TARTAN GIGHA against the field. RACER FOREVER is the reserve shout.
16.05
Just three runners look set to face the starter and all possess a winning chance in a race which you have to include the trio in your toteplacepot wagers and return to the bar. If you demand that I list the horses in (marginal) order of prefernece I would opt for ATLANTIS STAR, QUARREL and FOOTSTEPSOFSPRING.
16.40
RANSOM NOTE ran in what is rapidly proving to be one of the best maiden events of the season which was won by Elusive Pimpernel at Newmarket over this seven furlong trip. BANKS AND BRAES and DEMONSTRATIVE might be the horses to overcome 'late doors' if RANSOM NOTE is to previal at potentially rewarding odds.
17.10
SAGA DE TERCEY would prove interesting if travelling on from York on Friday whilst others for the mix include FIN VIN DE LEU and CAPABLE GUEST.
Sandown -- Friday 21/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.00: BRETT VALE
e/w- 15.50: ELLIPTICAL
14:05
Richard Hannon has saddled twice as many winners as his nearest rival at Sandown this year in the juvenile sector of the sport, whereby his pair of declarations PALISADES PARK and BUSH MASTER are selected against the other quartet.
14.40
This is the time of year when trainers make the most of in form horses and this contest illustrates the point perfectly. Six of the nine runners last ran an average six day ago and SOLEMN, STEP IN UP and HANDSOME CROSS all have realistic winning chances this time around.
15.15
VALIANT KNIGHT and VIKING DANCER arguably set the standard via the five experienced horses in the line up whilst Sir Michael Stoute's Verglas colt MAGNETIC FORCE is the subject of decent reports relating to the newcomers in the line up.
15.50
Three-year-olds carrying 9-4 or more come to the gig on a hat trick and ELLIPTICAL certainly has a fine chance of notching the treble on behalf of vintage representatives. BRAVE ECHO is another junior raider to take seriously as are BAB AL SALAM and KINGS TROOP.
16.25
Favourites have won three of the six renewals to date whilst the biggest priced winner was returned at 8/1. Although Super Sleuth appears to hold the call here, I'll probably rely on John Gosden's pair of CHICHORA and PARALLEL from a potential value for money perspective.
17.00
Ten stones and more is a tough ask for a three-year-old to carry to vioctory but what else can the handicapper do with improving Mark Prescott runners over a distance of ground? That's the question relating to BRETT VALE in this event and I still fancy the course and distance winner to oblige. RED SUEDE SHOES is not easy to win with but connections should be rewarded with yet another cheque of some description.
'Outsiders' to consider at York:
13.45: BERNIE THE BOLT
15.25: TAX FREE & RADIOHEAD
16.40: NEMO SPIRIT
Epsom -- Thursday 20/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 18.25: PINTURA
e/w- 18.55: PHLUKE
17:15
LORD THEO comes to the gig on a hat trick and it is difficult to envisage the Littmoden raider finishing out of the money, especially with the yard in half decent form right now. SIMONSIDE and EPSOM SALTS are the fairly obvious threats.
17.50
A poor claiming event by Epsom standards though I get supporters of the official figures will point to the chance of Keeptheboatafloat though I prefer the likes of KALEO and AHLAWI on this occasion.
18.25
PINTURA ran a fine race in defeat at York on the opening day of the Ebor meeting when finishing a 'never nearer' fifth in a competitive two-year-old handicap event. This seventh fulong is very much what the doctor ordered and trainer Mick Channon has once again proved how much he has learned about his 'second sport' by having this additional engagement mapped out for his representative. David Evans proved he could keep his juveniles fresh all year around via Star Rover's impressive victory on the Knavesmire yeaterday and TRANSFIXED is another of his well exposed two-year-olds to consider here, especially if Pintura becomes detatched down the hill 'early doors'.
18.55
Course winners are worth their weight in gold over this switchback track whereby PHLUKE enters the mix, possibly with the penalised SUMMER DANCER and AZURE MIST to beat.
19.30
Having saddled seventeen winners in the last fortnight, Saeed Bin Suroor can rightly feel pleased with life just now and EMIRATES ROADSHOW holds a leading chance in this event. Not to be usurped, Richard Hannon has saddled eighteen gold medallists during the period and STAR LINKS looks certain to represent the stable to good effect. GREEN AGENDA completes my trio against the field.
20.00
Whatever you back in the finale, luck will need to be on your side to a fashion as fifteen runenrs come thundering down the hill twoards Tattenham corner. I can only offer a tentive trio against the field given the circumstances which consists of OGRE, SUPPORT FUND and DRIVEN.
'Outsiders' to consider at York:
13.45: Makbullet & Layla's Hero
14.50: Alazeyab & Roaring Forte
16.40: Bahamian Babe, Green Beret, Jargelle
Kempton -- Wednesday 19/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 20.40: HAAFHD TIME
nb- 19.40: JUST THE TONI
18:40
Mick Channon is verty much the in form represented trainer (twelve winniers within the last fortnight at the time of writing) whereby MAZZOLA is given a realistic chance by yours truly despite being burdened with top weight on this occasion. HALAAK won two of her first seven races but has seemingly lacked a finishing kick of late whilst it's worth noting that both of the victories gained were on the slowest surface in racing, namely the Fibresand track at Southwell. Course and distance winner AGNES LOVE looks booked for third place this time around.
19.10
Beaten favourite SECRET QUEEN is probably worth another chance in this grade/company albeit the Zafeen filly might not reach the dizzy heights once thought about by trainer Brian Meehan. The January foal should have won and the doubt remains that younger horses have caught up now, with three May foals having won within the space of the last week. MILNAGAVIE is not the subject of 'jungle drums' but that said, any Richard Hannon juvenile is worth keeping on the right side despite the fact that most inmates have come on for their first outing this season. DYNA WALTZ completes my trio against the field.
19.40
Mick Channon currently rules the 'Nursery world' as is often the case whereby beaten favourite JUST THE TONIC could oblige having finished 'in the four' four times via seven outings to date. The May foal now has the 'month stats' on her side as younger horses catch up with their peers, though the likes of POPPY N' PENNY and GOLDEN PIPPIN are also likely to figure prominently.
20.10
KYLE was a disappointing favourite when I thought I has sussed out a coup at Windsor two races back and as a further beaten favourite last time out, the five-year-old is fast heading for my 'last chance saloon'. The race is littered with C/D winners (eight of the twelve contender qualify) and WE HAVE A DREAM and JORDAURA might be the pick of the relevant beasts on this occasion.
20.40
Talking of course and distance winners, Tom Dascombe's Haafhd filly HAAFHD TIME appears leniently treated receiving no less than eighteen pounds from the top weight in this event. Richard Smith's mount should carry the correct weight as the jockey has ridden off 8-3 within the last twelve months, albeit this was Richard's lowest tilt at the scales during the period. TEEKY and ARCOLA are ferared most with VIVACHI receiving the reserve nomination.
21.10
SPEED DATING was 'worried out' of the Windsor finale on Monday evening having been taken on for the lead where too strong a gallop was set to be able to be maintained. It is unknown whether Sir Mark Prescott's previously improving three-year-old will take his chance at the time of writing. Course and distance winner BEST IN CLASS and CUT AND THRUST are offered up as alternative selections.
'Outsiders' to consider at York:
13.45: AMANDA CARTER & DAZZLING LIGHT
14.50: MR DAVID & SHOWCASING
15.25: MANYRIVERSTOCROSS, SIBERIAN TIGER, THE BETCHWORTH KID
16.05: NOSEDIVE
16.40: SILVER GAMES & BADIAT ALZAMAN
Nottingham -- Tuesday 18/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.30: MEJALA
e/w- 20.00: BOLLIN JUDITH
17:30
DANEHILLSUNDANCE and WEST END LAD have both gained victories on fast ground of late and though you wouldn't wade into either horse with large notes at the ready, the Brown and Bowring representatives should give you a decent run for your collective monies. INSIDE STORY might offer most resistance down the home straight.
18.00
None of the six represented trainers come into the race in hot form which makes this a desperate race to consider from a betting perspective. If you must have a wager, I would be inclined to offer up CORNISH CASTLE and EQUIPE DE NUIT against the field.
18.30
A 'dead eight' event to consider and with the some of the leading trainers represented, some value should be found somewhere from a 'bet to nothing' perspective. MEJALA possible fits the bill not having been beaten far in unsuccessful sorties of late. Others for the overnight mix include SUPAVERDI and INSOLENCE.
19.00
ATLAAL will surely take plenty of kicking out of the frame here whilst many punters will believe the Michael Jarvis juvenile to be one of the best bets on the card following a fine Ascot introductory effort. LAVA LAMP was easy to back first time up and the late May foal will know much more about what is required this time around, whilst CITRUS STAR and SPINNING SPIRIT are the most interesting newcomers in the line up.
19.30
OLYNARD comes to the gig on a hat trick but giving away lumps of weight to similar winning types in SHANGANI and TAGULA NIGHT could prove to be a tough ask. Seven other contenders with realistic each way claims make this a race to watch having set the timer on the video to accurate effect.
20.00
Hughie Morrison (LA POLKA) and Tim Easterby (BOLLIN JUDITH) are the only trainers in any kind of form at the time of writing whereby their runners must be included in the equation. Tom Tate has also saddled a couple of winners in the last fortnight whereby DROP THE HAMMER could revert back to winning ways.
'Outsiders' to consider at York:
14.15: ELUSIVE PIMPERNEL & VALE OF YORK
16.05: PINTURA & LORD AERYN
16.40: FULL SPEED, GALA CASINO STAR, RED JADE
Kempton -- Monday 17/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: PENITENT
nb- 17.00: FANCY FOOTSTEPS
14:30
A decent three-year-old handicap with which to open proceedings even though the race is restricted to fillies. Willie Haggas could initiate a quick double on the card via his course and distance winner RESPITE before the trainer saddles a possible favourite in a juvenile event in the second contest on the programme. Frankie Dettori has only ridden two runners for Nick Littmoden in the last two years and though neither horse won on those occasions, the booking aboard SARASOTA SUNSHINE catches the eye. STEEL FREE completes my trio against the field.
15.00
Richard Hannon is well clear of his represented rivals with four Nursery winners this season (only Mick Channon with five heads the juvenile maestro) whereby the Leicester winner ROYAL BOX should go well on behalf of the yard. EJAAB deservedly heads the weights after a decent victory at Catterick following a debut full of promise at 'headquarters'. I would not be at all surprised if this pair dominate proceedings inside the final furlong.
15.30
Willie Haggas is the trainer to focus upon for the third successive race as PENITENT will surely take plenty of kicking out of the frame and appears to be the likely winner according to the gospel of yours truly. KHOR DUBAI holds obvious claims with Godolphin's runners going so well at the time of writing though the concession of a stone to the selection is a tough ask. Course winner WAJAHA is another for the short list in a decent race on the card.
16.00
Hayley Turner is another jockey on the card who has ridden just two horses for a yard with Sir Michael Stoute being the handler on this occasion. Like Frankie before her (openign race comment), Hayley failed to win on either horse but she has definite prospects aboard the Medicean filly OPERA WINGS. MOONBEAM DANCER and BRIEF LOOK might offer most resistance inside the final furlong.
16.00
The last six winners carried weights of 9-0 or less and I expect the trend to continue via the likes of RADIO CITY, MISTER HUGHIE and WHITE DAFFODIL. The three juveniles are listed in order of preference. The only occasion that RADIO CITY disappointed connections before scoring last time out was at Epsom and any horse (especially a juvenile) can be forgiven for being unable to act on the camber.
16.30
Three horses boast 'recent' winning form and the trio of runners are difficult to ignore in the context of this event. HAARTH SOVEREIGN, EIGHTEENFIFTY and BLACK OR RED are the three horses in question and the trio are listed in marginal order of preference. RELATIVE STRENGTH receives the reserve nomination.
17.00
Clive Cox has saddled three winners via his last twenty two runners at the time of writing whilst securing an additional eight 'first four' positions. Clive saddles course and distance winner FANCY FOOTSTEPS with an obvious chance in the finale especially form a win and place perspective as the four-year-old has finished 'in the three' five times via nine outings. Fellow course and distance winner CARLITOS SPIRIT returns to a mark which the five-year-old has won off before whilst OMNIUM DUKE is also an interesting contender.
Bath -- Sunday 16/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.30: BUSH TUCKER
nb- 16.30: PLEASE SING
14:30
Five of the last six favourites have won this opening event whilst market leaders are on a five-timer on this occasion. Beaten favourite BUSH TUCKER is probably worth another chance in this grade/company and Peter Winkworth is due another juvenile winner this season. The concession of a few ounces here and there should not stop the Choisir colt albeit fellow beaten market leader ZELOS DREAM receives as much as eleven pounds which should bring the pair close together. ART SUMMER looks booked for third spot.
15.00
Two of the three favourites have won thus far though I wouldn't have a bet in this event with your money personally. ROUGHAM is the call, especially as Andrew Balding's team has moved into top gear in recent weeks. RAMORA and BOURNE are feared most.
15.30
David Probert has steered CONSTANT CHEERS to his last three victories and the pair might not have ended their winning parTnership just yet. Roger Charlton has his team in good nick whereby SOUTER POINT should represent the three-year-old vintage to good effect. Others to consider include LA COVETA and MOUNT HERMON.
16.00
LADY FLORENCE carries the same winning (9-8) weight that was carried to victory twelve months ago, albeit the previous four winners had been burdened with a maximum of 9-2. If the race is to revert to type on this occasion, the likes AILSA CRAIG, and DANCING STORM are likely to figure prominently. HIGHLAND LASSIE is the other horse to throw into the mix overnight.
16.30
Three-year-olds have won four of the seven renewals of this Listed event to date and the trend is expected to continue via BALAAGHA, PLEASE SING and GOLDEN STREAM. Just three four-year-olds line up by way of opposition and the junior raiders should possess too much speed for their elders this time around.
17.00
The first three horses home carried 9-0 or more in the inaugural running of this contest twelve months ago which effectively eliminates the bottom five horses if you take the stats seriously following just one event. I am left to consider the prospects of ESPY, FINNEGAN MCCOOL and BATELEUR.
Newmarket -- Saturday 15/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.25: BOUNTY BOX
nb- 16.35: TIMES UP
13:50
Four favourites have won via seven renewals to date whilst the biggest priced winner was returned at 15/2. RAKANN'S entries have to be seen to be believed even though the Bahamian Bounty colt has flattered to deceive to a fashion. That said, his third placed Coventry Stakes form stands the closest inspection whereby you have to ask what price Canford Cliffs would be in this event, given that Rakaan was beaten less than seven lengths by that rival when Richard Hannon's juvenile blitzed the Royal Ascot turf. ENGULF appears to be the pick of the newcomers whilst ARABIAN PRIDE should snare more prize money for connections albeit at a respectable distance behind Brian Meehan's market leader.
14.20
Six of the seven winners were returned at 15/2 or less during which time favourites have prevailed on four occasions. SUBA ran well in the blue colours of Godolphin as a juvenile and justified Luca Cumani's confidence in the filly when coming from well off the pace to force a dead heat at Nottingham on her three-year-old debut. Whether she can beat the impressive Leicester winner RUSSIAN JAR receiving just three pounds is another matter entirely.
14.50
It's impossible to believe that this 'Grey Horse Handicap' is now six years old but let's hope that SIR EDWARD LANDSEER can help us to celebrate the renewal of one of the best innovations the sport has witnessed during the last decade. Now with Gary Moore after an interesting career which has taken in fifty nine race for so many different trainers and jockeys, the nine-year-old is fancied to run into toteplacepot money at the very least. NICKEL SILVER, ZOWINGTON and MEDICI TIME are feared most this time around.
15.25
The last four winners carried weights of 8-7 or less and BOUNTY BOX has a great chance to extend the trend on behalf of horses down towards the bottom of the handicap. Not beaten more than four lengths to date via five races, Chris Wall's course and distance winner holds an undeniable chance on these terms. FROGNAL and SIOUX RISING are others down the bottom of the list with each way chances whilst NOVERRE TO GO might be the best option for those of you who wish to take on the trends.
16.00
The last six winners carried weights of 9-0 or less and I expect the trend to continue via the likes of RADIO CITY, MISTER HUGHIE and WHITE DAFFODIL. The three juveniles are listed in order of preference. The only occasion that RADIO CITY disappointed connections before scoring last time out was at Epsom and any horse (especially a juvenile) can be forgiven for being unable to act on the camber.
16.35
Three and four-year-olds have won all bar one of the last eight renewals between them and a mix of the vintages via BEAU FIGHTER, ALCADE and TIMES UP should be good enough to land the spoils on this occasion. The last favourite obbliged back in 2002 whilst the last three market leaders have all finished out of the frame.
17.10
It's difficult to know how to pass on the trends via weight carrying performanes in the finale. You either hold the opinion that horses carrying 9-8 or less have won all three renewals, or that runners with 9-4 or more have prevailed. Either way, ICEMAN GEORGE, SINGORA LADY, IN SECRET and MURHEE sit somewhere between the afore mentioned handicap positions which should bring about a victory for one of the quartet mentioned in dispatches.
Beverley -- Thursday 13/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.15: BAHAMIAN BALLAD
e/w- 15.50: TUFTON
14:10
Five of the six toteplacepot positions have been snared by horses carrying 9-1 or more (including both winners) whereby the bottom six horses (of twelve) can be eliminated if you take the stats seriously. I'm left with CASABLANCA MINX, DIMASHQ and KAMES PARK on my short list.
14.40
TARITA is the first horse that Richard Hannon has saddled at Beverley this season and with the trainer snaring two-year-old events like they were going out of fashion, it's difficult to look beyond the Bahamian Bounty filly on this occasion. That said, 'local' raiders BAHRAJ and LAURELDEAN DESERT will ensure that this is no cakewalk for the 'soft southerner'!
15.15
Four-year-olds have won all three renewals to date and vintage representatives with the best of the draw on this occcasion include BAHAMIAN BALLAD, BARLEY BREE and MEY BLOSSOM. BAHAMIAN BALLAD makes particular appeal with all three winners to date having carried weights of 8-12 or less.
15.50
TUFTON has to be the each way call in a race which trainer Richard Fahey has won three times in the last six years. The King's Best gelding comes to the gig on a hat trick racing from the right area of the handicap according to the stats. JO'BURG and BAZERGAN are feared most.
16.25
The last six winners of this contest have carried weights of 9-0 or less and as usual, Mark Johnston is live to the trends. Mark saddles WHIPPERS LOVE on this occasion and it's difficult to envisage the beaten favourite failing to become competitive at some stage during proceedings. Richard Hannon has similarly spotted the opportunity (CAPTAIN COOL) whilst MARY HELEN completes my trio against he field. The rebels amongst you might best be served by AQUARIAN SPIRIT if you want to take on the stats.
17.00
WISEMAN'S DIAMOND has the form in the the book and the right pilot to justify favouritism, but the stall position (7/17) prevents me from making the four-year-old the good thing she might otherwise have been. Grethel is the each way call if you are looking for one, whilst BIVOUAC and COOLE DODGER are others which could offer investors a decent run for their collective monies.
Salisbury -- Wednesday 12/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.00: THOMAS BAINES
nb- 16.40: REGAL BLUSH
14:30
Six favourites have won via thirteen two-year-old races at Salisbury this season whilst eight gold medallists emerged from the front three horses in the market. RICHARD HANNON (CARNABY STREET and DUBAI SET) and Andrew Balding (MON CADEAUX) are the only trainers to have saddled more than one juvenile winner at Salisbury this season and all three horses should go close for their respective connections. DAFEEF is the newcomer which stands out via seven horses making their debuts in an interesting opening encounter.
15.00
The same stats apply for this Nursery event as were in place for the opening race on the card. AVON RIVER (Hannon) is the only representative of the leading yards here at Salisbury this season and Ryan Moore's mount has a chance of reaching the frame for toteplacepot enthusiasts. More logical winners on this occasion include FROZEN POWER and JANEIRO, whilst THOMAS BAINES is an outsider to consider in this decent two-year-old handicap event.
15.35
The bottom two horses have plenty to do according to the weight stats which suggests that MARCHING TIME, DIRECTORSHIP and BLOCK PARTY are the trio on which to concentrate. ALBAHER could yet be anything following just one outing in his second campaign following his debut victory at Ascot on fast ground on his one and only appearance as a juvenile. The fact that trainer John Dunlop has targeted a handicap event suggests that he has no illusions about the Oasis Dream colt however.
16.05
Three-year-olds have won five of the last seven renewals (the junior raiders come to the party on a hat trick on this occasion) and although the four-year-old representatives are a talented bunch of individuals, I have to adhere to my anorak tendencies. My trio against the field thereford consists of AVE, STERLING SOUND and SPLASHDOWN.
16.40
Similar stats apply here (as in the previous contest) as three-year-olds have dominated recent renewals whereby vintage representatives have won the last four races. REGAL BLUSH, WILBURY STAR and SIXTIES SWINGER might best serve the vintage on this occasion.
17.10
An extremely moderate finale by Salisbury standards in all honesty but if you must have a bet, the likes of AKABAR, CHEAP STREET and WOODEN KING should give you a decent run for your collective monies.
Lingfield -- Tuesday 11/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.00: PRESCRIPTION
nb- 16.30: PERFECT ACT
14:30
The field is made up in much the same way as last year when three-year-olds dictated the contest. I doubt we have a horse of the potential ability of Red Kestral who won the race last year (reappeared to contest a warm York handicap in May) but something has to prevail and my tentative trio against the field consists of MT KINTYRE, DEUCE and AWANI.
15.00
Horses down the weights dictated the inaugural running of this Nursery event last year whereby the likes of MAHIKI, YAWARY and TOM FOLAN (to a fashion) could become involved at the business end of the contest. The Antonius Pius filly (the sire has already produced eleven winners) ANNIA GALERIA is offered up as the overnight reserve.
15.30
Shamardal is another first season sire that is doing well at stud and TIA JUANA could be another winner for the stallion. Godolphin's two-year-olds are beginning to stack up decent percentages and the blue colours have been placed to potential winning effect again. Stable companion LA VILLE LUMIERE will also know what is expected of her at the first time of asking whilst TRANSVAAL SKY completes my trio against the field.
16.00
It is Mark Prescott's three-year-olds which attract most attention but course and distance winner PRESCRIPTION is a four-year-old that could run well for the stable in a race which should not prove difficult to win. The beaten favourite has won three of her six races to date and the (extremely) late May foal could yet develop into a horse taking in far better races than this. RAVI RIVER is the each way call in the contest with stable companion AL GILLANI completing my trio against the field.
16.30
Clive Cox has saddled five winners in the last fortnight and the trainer has found a decent opportunity for PERFECT ACT to resume winning ways. A winner of just one medal of each colour via twelve races to date, it is high time that the Act One filly scored again. MONSIEUR FILLOUX and AUTUMN BLADES will probably offer most resistance close home.
17.00
UNCLE BRIT is the tentative call in the finale as the Southwell winner is attempting to score on a faster track for the first time. The course and distance winner DARK RANGER has to be included in the each way mix whilst it's about time that RED SUEDE SHOES lost his maiden tag after seven fruitless sorties to date. It's worth noting that Michael Hills comes in for the ride for the first time aboard the Storming Home raider, the sire having been trained by father Barry to win the Champion Stakes seven years ago. To my knowledge, this is the first time that Michael has ridden for Rod Millman in a very long time.
Thirsk -- Monday 10/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.30: OUR JOE MAC
e/w- 18.00 DURHAM EXPRESS
18:00
With Michael Dods having saddled five winners via just eight juvenile runners, the chances of both DURHAM EXPRESS and CROFT BRIDGE are respected, the two representatives being listed in order of preference at the time of writing. The booking of Jamie Spencer for SECRET MILLIONAIRE catches the eye whereby the beaten favourite is marginally preferred to TAKE TEN.
18.30
Four of the last five winners have carried weights of 9-3 or more which eliminates nearly 28% of the field if you take the stats seriously. The quartet to home in on via the remaining thirteen runners is EFIDIUM, JOSEPHINE MALINES, DOLLY NO HAIR and WHISPERING SPIRIT.
19.00
Last year's winner ended a run of six winners which had carried weights of 9-3 or more to victory and I expect the race to revert to type this time around via the likes of SAFARI SONG, GREEN AGENDA and GORDY BEE.
19.30
OUR JOE MAC finished fourth on his debut in a warm York maiden whereby the Celtic Swing representative demands attention in this grade, whilst any rain would be welcomed given the sire in question. The pick of the newcomers should prove to be BINTALALEUMYDARLIN, FRONTLINE BOY and QUITE SPARKY.
20.00
Four five-year-olds have secured three of the last four renewals and vintage representatives SIMPLE JIM and FISTRAL appear to have the recent dual winner SPIDERS STAR to beat.
20.30
Horses down the weights hold the call via recent trends whereby course and distance winner (and beaten favourite) LUCKY ART is offered another chance by yours truly alongside HYSTERICAL LADY and DISPOL GRAND. DARK LANE could be the each way call in the contest however, if you want to take on the stats and facts.
Windsor -- Sunday 09/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 17.00 IMAGINARY DIVA
nb- 16.30: SAMAAHA
14.30
I apologise for the restricted service this weekend (see Saturday's closing race for reasons if you require them). BY COMMAND held every chance to finish in the frame at Sandown on Thursday night and the Mark Tompkins raider enters my 'last chance saloon' in this opening event. Horses potentially showing more determination on this occasion might include PRETTY OFFICER and COOL EBONY.
15.00
SUNRAIDER is the subject of my best news re the newcomers though APOSTLE OF ROME and QUINNER should also run well from their good pictches in terms of the draw.
15.30
CHAPERNO was thrown to the lions in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood eleven days ago and will appreciate this drop in class. Course and distance winner LUCKY GENERAL might offer most resistance on this occasion though I'm mindful that Little Perisher has also been contesting half decent events.
16.00
MARY GOODNIGHT won as anticipated by yours truly at the first time of asking and the double looks on the cards. WARPEDSENSEOFHUMOUR should complete the forecast for the least exposed runners in the contest.
16.30
A weak event by Windsor maiden standards which offers Godolphin's SAMAAHA the chance to get off the mark on her second outing. The pick of the potential dangers include PHANTOM RIDGE and SILK AND SATIN.
17.00
SPEAK THE TRUTH, IMAGINARY DIVA and KEEP DANCING should give you a decent run for your collective monies, particularly from a win and place perspective. Monday's service should be back up to 'full speed'.
Ascot -- Saturday 08/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 13.10 BUACHAILL DONA
e/w- 14.55: GEE DEE NEN
13.10
I don't hold with these 'team games' personally though I'm aware I am in a minority group of one. Upwards and onwards in positive fashion by declaring course and distance winner JUDGE 'N JURY, BUACHAILL DONA and FOL HOLLOW against the field.
13.45
BRAVEHEART MOVE, HOLYROOD and BARWELL BRIDGE might deny the three Mark Johnston representatives on this occasion.
14.20
Docofthebay prefers coming through big fields to bring out the best in the five-year-old whereby I will offer up DUBAI'S TOUCH, BENCOOLEN and WE'LL COME against Jamie Osborne's raider.
14.55
Course and distance winner GEE DEE NEN is an interesting potential outsider to consider in a race which has 'bookmaker's result' stamped all the way through it like a stick of rock. Other less than obvious horses to consider include Mick Channon's pair of representatives, namely AIM TO PLEASE and DOLLY PENROSE.
15.30
Four-year-olds won the first six renewals of this event before a five-year-old acted as party-pooper twelve months ago. The race might revert to type this time around via the likes of CONQUISTO, WILLIAM BLAKE and MYSTERY STAR.
16.05
Favourites come to the finale on a hat trick whilst
Roger Charlton has saddled two of the last five winners.
AFFLUENT would be offered a serious chance if getting into
the race, whilst FAVOURITE GIRL, FIVE STAR JUNIOR and
ABLE MASTER are others in the overnight mix. In
conclusion, I apologise for the restricted service this
weekend due to a death in the family. My sister-in-law
would have approved of offering me help on my least
favourite of the 'big meetings' of the season. Hopefully the
full service will be resumed on Monday.
Haydock -- Friday 07/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.50 AGILIETE
nb- 19.25: GRACEFUL DESCENT
17.50
AGILETE has won his last two races in a common canter under today's pilot and the hat trick is very much on the cards. How he was allowed to win at 7/1 yesterday is beyond belief. Beaten favourite TRIP THE LIGHT is the potential party-poopper in the line up.
18.20
KHATTAAB and CALL TO ARMS should dominate proceedings in both the ring and in the race itself.
Record of favourites and fancied horses in 2YO races at Haydock this year: 23 favourites: 9 winners--5 placed--9 unplaced. 1st 3 in betting: 14 winners--14 placed--37 unplaced.
18.55
Both favourites have obliged in this contest to date and many punters will wade in heavily relating to the chance of last week's beaten Goodwood favourite LAYLA'S HERO who might have met something of a tartar in stable companion Bluie on the Sussex downs. MILITARY CALL and WIGAN LANE are nominated as the best each way alternatives to the likely market leader.
19.25
GRACEFUL DESCENT deserves to win a race following three runner up efforts where the likely favourite was beaten by less than an aggregate of six lengths. APPLAUDE is the value for money call via an alternative selection.
20.00
POSTMAN would be a topical winner on the day that several postal workers have commenced strike action! Whether Postman can stike is another matter though Bryan Smart's three-year-old should become competitive at the business end of the contest alongside PAQUERETTZA.
20.30
Five-year-olds come into the contest on a hat trick whereby lone vintage representative CALCULATING is certainly included in my mix alongside SOLAS ALAINN and PUY D'ARNAC.
Sandown -- Thursday 06/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 18.15 ESPECIALLY SPECIAL
nb- 17.40: WAVEBAND
17.40
Not the strongest juvenile event Sandown has ever staged but with the draw in his favour (10/10), WAVEBAND should be another winner for Mark Johnston who is touring the southern tracks at present. Located at Goodwood all last week, Mark was spotted at both Brighton and Kempton on Wednesday and will no doubt be on hand at Sandown tonight to take care of his five runners on the card. MEMORY AND MAGIC and TARITA could have been better drawn (two and three respectively) but should still emerge as the main threats to the selection.
18.15
The Kirk stable roared backed to form with a 325/1 treble yesterday whereby ESPECIALLY SPECIAL must enter the equation in a disappointing event. ROBIN THE TILL contested a tougher event at Newbury the other day and retains enough potential to score at rewarding odds one of these days.
18.45
Having saddled just three juvenile winners via thirty three runners to date this season, you would not find yours truly availing himself of the odds of 8/15 touted in the trade press about HIGH TWLEVE this evening, even taking his decent Sandown debut effort into account. Stepping up a furlong in trip will no doubt asist the Montjeu colt to give of his best but does he really reflect a winning chance of 53.3 percnet in your eyes? VALIANT KNIGHT is just one of two or three horses which could bustle up the favourite.
19.20
A tough eleven runner handicap to assess though I am likely to be represented by KING'S LA MONT, PEGASUS LAD and BY COMMAND in the toteplacepot mix. The point being made that I wouldn't fancy any of the three runners to back from a win perspective.
19.55
TOTTIE could be one to avoid in future races if the Fantastic Light filly is unable to win this race with so much in her favour on this occasion. That said, ALMUKTAHEM is one of just three opponents which could also be offered a winning chance.
20.25
BOMBER BROWN cannot be ignored at the bottom of the weights especially as Jack Mitchell has ridden plenty of winners for Peter Chapple-Hyam of late. WING PLAY and KIDLAT are the potential party-poopers in the line up.
Brighton -- Wednesday 05/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30 KOCHANKSI
e/w- 16.00: DRIVEN
14.30
Mick Channon is the only trainer to have saddled more than one juvenile winner at the switchback circuit this year (albeit 'only' two) whereby INTERAKT has to be of interest, especially given his runner up effort at Epsom (similar gradients) over this trip last time out. It's very much a guessing game this year relating to Godolphin's juveniles and CARIBOU ISLAND is another example of a horse that could easily win but is just as unlikely to disappoint connections and punters alike.
15.00
I would not be in too much of a hurry to write off the chance of SAFARI CAMP just yet, especially as two of the four winners of this event have similarly carried feather-weights to victory. I concede that more logical winners in the line up include CRAICATTACK (could be the value for money each way call) and RADIO CITY.
15.30
Aisde from the potential of Mark Johnston's raider KOCHANSKI, this would appear to be a race for the benevolence of the bookmakers, though as five of the last six winners have carried weights of 8-13 or less, the declaration of the Middleham raider could spoil things for the layers. I am allowed three more bites of the cherry given that sixteen horses have been declared in this handicap event, even though I wouldn't back any of them from a win perspective personally. Place terms can be used to our advantage however whereby the likes of CASABLANCA MIX, FLEUR DE'LION and ART VALUE could reward each way investors.
16.00
Four-year-olds have won three of the last four renewals whilst horses carrying weights of 9-1 or more have lifted all four prizes. Put the stats and facts together are we are left with a 'short list' of UNCLE FRED, HUSTLE, DRIVEN and ELNA BRIGHT in another sixteen runner extravaganza.
16.30
The last seven winners have been burdened with 8-12 or more whereby the trio to home in on consists of JAZACOSTA, CHEAM FOREVER and GOOD FOR HER. The first and last named horses are trained 'locally' and the respective runners from the Perrett and Dunlop yards invariably offer investors a decent run for their collective monies at this popular seaside venue.
17.00
Mick Channon has won two of the last four contests in another 'four place' event, though 'Big Mac' will be offering terms that at least one runner is withdrawn in each of the respective events on the card. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however, by suggesting that the finale might be fought out between EYE FOR THE GIRLS, CINDY INCIDIENTALLY, LA GIFTED and CALL ME COURAGEOUS.
Catterick -- Tuesday 04/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.50 PLEASANT DAY
e/w- 16.20: ONE MORE ROUND
14.20
Eight of the last ten contests have been won by horses returned at odds of 6/1 or less (four winning favourites) though tread carefully, as the other two gold medallists were sent off at 80/1 and 20/1. The market usually offers the best guide in selling events which gives you an advantage over yours truly but I'll offer the speculative trio of DREAM IS BLUE, JUST OSCAR and FRANALI and hope for the best.
14.50
The Noverre gelding PLEASANT DAY will find this opposition easier to cope with than was the case on his introduction at Newmarket. A typically easy Noverre representative to train according to Brian Meehan, the handler appears to have found an ideal opening for the March foal to score at the second time of asking. The other experienced runners should not take a great deal of beating which suggest that the Johnston and Howard Johnson newcomers GREYFRIARSCHORISTA and DECIMUS MERIDIUS might pose most threats at the business end of the contest.
15.20
Four-year-olds have won four of the last six contests whereby PRINCESS RAINBOW is offered a definite each way chance given her recent form figures alongside the weight she receives from fellow vintage representatives PHEONIX FLIGHT and SAGA DE TERCEY. Five-year-olds aon the other two recent renewals which also brings course winner BERGONZI into the mix.
15.50
Five-year-olds have won two of the four renewals to date whilst securing half (6/12) of the available toteplacepot positions. Just two vintage representatives have been declared this time around and both ONLY A SPLASH and REDWATER RIVER hold each way chances. GRIMES FAITH come to the gig on a hat trick though the last two victories were gained under all weather conditions, the last of which was achieved well over four months ago.
16.20
With only the represented stables of David Nicholls (TURNKEY) and David Evans (ONE MORE ROUND) offering consistent winning form at the time of writing, it would be churlish in the extreme to dismiss the chances of either horse in what appears to be a competitive handicap on paper. Add hat trick seeking OBE GOLD to the mix and we have a trio which should provide the winner of this claiming event between them.
16.50
Another claiming event on the card which revolves around the subject of weight as the last ten winners have carried 9-0 or more. Purists might narrow the search down to horses carrying 9-4 or more as nine winners have been thus burdened during the study period. This leaves just three horses in the mix, namely REALISM, MONOPOLE and OBARA D'AVRIL. TERMINATE is the reserve nomination on this occasion.
17.20
The top two horses in the handicap finished in the frame in the inaugural running of this contest last year (including the 9/2 winner) whilst horses down the weights generally finished nearer last than first. With little else to work with, I'll suggest that a repeat scenario might in place via the likes of JUST TIMMY MARCUS, KHESKIANTO and QUIQUILLO.
17.50
Five-year-olds come to the party on a hat trick whilst also having won five of the last nine renewals of this Catterick finale. The pick of the four vintage representatives this time around might prove to be LITHAAM and METAL GURU, though I couldn't honestly put a line through the other pair (KING OF SWORDS and GLEAMING SPIRIT) in a thoroughly uninspiring event.
Ripon -- Monday 03/08/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.45 BAIZICALLY
nb- 15.15: CRIME WRITER
14.15
With only a modicum of ability shown by the eight runners with experience in the contest and no trends to work on (this is a new race with which to open the card at Ripon), this race is the least appealing of the three juvenile contests on Monday. I'm inclined to take MAKBULLET on with CROSS KEY, AL ADHAM and Mark Johnston's Shamardal colt LAVA LAMP.
14.45
Four of the last five winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more and with only four 'qualifiers' this year, I'll offer up SIMPLE RHYTHM, COMPTON FORD and THETA WAVE against the field.
15.15
Although CRIME WRITER fisnished last of six at Sandown last time out, Mark Johnston's Elusive Quality gelding was tackling stronger company on that occasion and the lone three-year-old contender can represent the vintage to good effect. That said, four-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick having won two of the three renewals to date whereby JOINEDUPWRITING and SOCIETY VENUE are added to the mix.
15.45
Seven of the last eight winners have been aged at five or more whereby 'old stagers' such as VIKING SPIRIT, RED CAPE and course and distance winner BOND CITY should offer potential investors a decent run for their collective monies. Fellow C/D scorer MISTER LAUREL is the potential party-pooper in the line up.
16.15
Favourites come to the party on a hat trick and it's difficult to get away from the likely leaders in the market, namely COTILLION, LAAZIM and MY CHESTNUT GIRL. Add CHERISH THE MOMENT to the mix and you just about have the race covered, if you must have a bet.
16.45
The last seven winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more which effectively eiliminates forty per cent of the field if you take the stats seriously. The pick of the sextet on this occasion should prove to be PROMISE MAKER, BAIZICALLY and MOONWALKING.
17.15
This finale is a new race on the Ripon card and without the aid of trends I can only offer the tentative trio of EXCELLENT SHOW, DOCTOR PARKES and ROWAYTON in what appears to be a competitive little (nine runner) three-year-old handicap event.
Chester -- Sunday 02/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.55: TUKITINYASOK
nb- 14.20: PROMPTER
14.20
The Motivator colt PROMPTER attracted plenty of money on his Ascot introduction when going down by just a head and with a decent draw here (5/12), Michael Bell's April foal must go close with luck in running. That said, Mark Johnston's Alhharth colt REALISATION has (potentially) fared even better via the stall positions in trap three, whilst ARKELLION completes my trio against the field, albeit the David Evans raider is much the weakest of the three nominations.
14.55
TRANSFIXED is a fair benchmark in these northern juvenile events this season and the Trans Island filly looks set to offer another decent effort off 8-3 from trap two. The March foal is due to let supporters down at some stage but there has been no sign of a poor performance to date. Roger Fisher has saddled two juvenile winners via just five runners at the time of writing whereby TUKITINYASOK demands plenty of respect whilst 'dead eight' investors might look to SOCIAL GRACE as their potential each way bet to nothing.
15.30
Horses aged five or more have won the last four contests and HOH HOH HOH and SOHRAAB might best represent the older runners this time around. HOH HOH HOH used to be an inconsistent performer but fair play to the seven-year-old as the Piccolo gelding is a more reliable type these days. DONCASTER ROVER has drawn the 'perfect pitch' in trap one and the three-year-old looks much the best of the junior raiders on this occasion.
16.05
Four-year-olds have won four of the last eight contests whilst just one (20/1) representative let the side down last year when the vintage came into the contest on a hat trick. OPUS MAXIMUS and BRASINGHAM FIVE are offered each way chances, whilst DIXEY is added to the overnight mix.
16.35
Three and four-year-olds have secured nine victories during the last decade and with no junior raiders having been declared this time around, the way appears to have been left open for DESTINYS DREAM, KING FINGAL and ROBBY BOBBY to figure prominently.
17.10
Favourites come into the finale on a hat trick and my short lists consists of CARTER, VITA MIA and VEROON with WEE SONNY nominated as the overnight reserve, despite being drawn out in the car park in stall eleven (of thirteen).
Lingfield -- Saturday 01/08/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.55 KEY BREEZE
nb- 18.25: DR FINLEY
17.55
Without a single recent victory recorded by any of the eighteen runners and no trends to work with in this new contest, I can only offer a tentative quartet against the field in this apprentice event. The four horses in question are WHOTSIT, TIGNELLO, BLUE TURK and MOUNT ELLA.
18.25
DR FINLEY might have the best of the draw and Michael Bell's Dr Fong colt showed plenty of promise when beaten by Nideeb on soft ground at Yarmouth when finishing fourth of ten runners. POWER SERIES might prove to be the pick of the newcomers whilst horses with experience expected to run well include the Ralph Beckett pair KENSEI and AGONY AND ECSTASY.
18.55
Favourites of one description or another have won the last three renewals of this three-year-old handicap which is something of a rarity in what are usually well contested events. Thirteen runners are scheduled to face the starter on this occasion and with the last three winners having carried 9-5 or more to date, this year's lone qualifier LEARO DOCHAIS will certainly be included in my mix, especially as the Michael Jarvis raider is a course and distance winner. KINGSGATE STORM and HI SHINKO are other horses up towards the top of the weights which demand respect.
19.25
Four-year-olds have won three of the last four contests and vintage representatives come to the gig on a hat trick this time arouind. My quartet against the field consists of BOHOBE, CHESHIRE ROSE, PLUMAGE and MR SKIPITON.
19.55
Although only one favourite has prevailed to date via five renewals, the biggest priced winner was returned at just 5/1. Beaten favourite KEY BREEZE might be worth another chance now that John Gosden has saddled a few juvenile winners of late, especially as the Exceed and Excel colt finished out of the frame at Epsom and all horses (particularly juveniles) can be excused for not performing at the Surrey venue. Out of interest, Exceed And Excel has sired more two-year-old winners (eighteen at the time of writing) than any other stallion this season. LISTILLO and BUSH TUCKER are expected to offer potential investors a decent run for their collective monies.
20.25
All three winners have carried weights ranging between 9-0 and 9-5 and I expect the trend to continue via the likes of DENTON, OUR KES and PLATOCHE, though I couldn't be persuaded to have a bet in the race personally.
Outsiders to consider at Goodwood on Saturday:
13.55: Zarinski & Eastern Aria
15.05: Moneycantbuymelove
15.40: Jimmy Styles, Sonny Red & Fol Hollow
16.15: Stags Leap
16.50: Slice & Palisades Park
Newmarket -- Friday 31/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.00: POET'S VOICE
e/w- 20.05: CHOISEAU
17.55
NEW CHRISTMAS was nominated by trainer Brian Meehan as one of his better juveniles via a stable tour earlier in the year, though with TAAJUB in the line up, the February colt cannot be classed as a decent bet. TAAJUB did very little wrong at Ascot when only finding Trailblazing too good for him whereby the Exceed And Excel raider must go close in this event. KONA COAST would have been given a decent chance via positive jungle drums earlier in the year but John Gosden's two-year-olds have disappointed connections this season.
18.25
Three-year-olds usually get the better of the argument with their elder rivals in these mixed vintage races though if further rain falls on the heath prior to racing, four-year-old PROFICIENCY might prevail following a half decent winning performance at Pontefract last time out. The pick of the junior runners might prove to be WELSH ANTHEM and JABROOT.
19.00
POET'S VOICE finished third in a warm maiden at the big July meeting here at Newmarket having been well supported in the market. The Godolphin representative faces at least two horses with definite ability in this four runner (win only) contest but the Dubawi colt is difficult to ignore despite the victory already gained by Pallantes Cross.
19.30
Four-year-olds have secured two gold and one silver medal via the last three renewals and the vintage might best be served the recent Warwick winner BAUNAGAIN by on this occasion. Course and distance winner ESTEEM MACHINE and PUMPKIN should offer most resisance close home.
20.05
RUM JUNGLE won this race for Henry Candy last year and though showing no form this season, a little moisture in the ground will suit the five-year-old whereby a toteplacepot position could be gained at the very least. The biggest dangers on this occasion are expected to be LAST SOVEREIGN and CHOISEAU for Pat Eddery's in form yard.
20.35
Four-year-olds have won the last three renewals whereby CREDIT SWAP, KING COLUMBO and BILLBERRY are nominated immediately, being the only vintage representatives in the fifteen strong field.
Outsiders to consider at Goodwood on Friday:
14.10: Age Of Reason
14.45: Vhujon
15.25: Tartan Gigha and Benandonner
16.00: Stargaze
16.35: Contract Caterer, Avon River and Suffolk Punch
17.10: Please Sing
17.45: Strictly
Epsom -- Thursday 30/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.35: HARLESTONE SNAKE
e/w- 20.05: SEASONAL CROSS
17.55
This is a tough little handicap to assess with no previous race trends with which to work. It might prove best to stick to the two course and distance winners on this switchback track, whereby INSPIRINA and EPSOM SALTS are the main selections, offering up RECALITRANT as the each way call in the contest.
18.25
It's difficult to break away form the three recent winners in the race and via my self imposed rules of only being able to offer up two horses against the field in seven runner events, I'll nominate SLIP and KING SUPREME on this occasion.
19.00
Mark Johnston boasts a 45% strike rate at Epsom with his juveniles in recent years whereby GOLD DIAMOND has to be of interest, even though FINE SIGHT is the horse to beat via the form book.
19.30
DOVE MEWS appears to respond well to Hayley Turner's handling and now that the jockey is back in the plate I expect an each way investment to be rewarded one way or the other. More logical winners in the line up include ALL FOR YOU and SUPPORT FUND.
20.05
'Team Duffield' have their team in better order now having secured six toteplacepot positions (two winners) via their last eleven runners, whereby HEL'S ANGEL is the speculative selection in this four runner (win only) event.
20.35
All four winners of this finale have carried weights of 9-2 or more which makes this race a 'doddle' from my perspective, simply nominating ROCKET BOB and MY KINGDOM against the other quintet.
Outsiders to consider at Goodwood on Thursday:
14.10: Sandor & Takaatuf
14.45: Fat Boy & Rowe Park
15.25: Tungsten Strike
16.00: Lady Artemisia
16.35: Deadly Encounter
17.10: Paleo & Candleshoe
17.45: Mandurah & Northern Fling
Sandown -- Wednesday 29/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.35: HARLESTONE SNAKE
e/w- 20.05: SEASONAL CROSS
17.50
Jim Boyle has saddled both winners to date and Classical Rhythm offers the trainer an each way chance to notch the treble on this occasion. The potential party-poopers in the line up include THEOCRITUS and last week's course and distance winner ROSS MOOR who did yours truly a favour at 12/1.
18.20
PERSIAN STORM has plenty in hand of his rivals according to the official ratings though FREMEN is the type of horse to ruin plans when he is in the mood. Catching the nine-year-old on a 'going day' remains difficult however which makes this event one to watch rather than becoming involved in financially. SALTAGIOO completes my trio against the field.
18.55
John Gosden's Azamour colt AZMEEL will attract plenty of attention but having saddled just two juvenile winners via twenty four two-year-old runners this season, it's impossible to wade in with notes flying in the direction of bookmakers. CLOUDY CITY and GREEK KEY might offer better value for money in the circumstances. The six experienced runners have failed to pull up any trees at the time of writing.
19.30
If I was guilty of dismissing the chance of a John Gosden runner in the previous event, I will make up for the potential misdemeanour by nominating NEGOTIATION to lift this prize. The three-year-old does not appear harshly treated for the Yamouth victory, albeit over three months have passed since the success was gained whilst Yarmouth form can be misleading. Beaten favourite AL QEDDAAF might be worth another chance if you want to oppose the likely favourite.
20.05
A half decent race offering 'bet to nothing' opportunities via the eight declarations. Four of Simon Dow's last six runners have rewarded each way investors whereby beaten favourite SEASONAL CROSS could be the horse to home in on from a win and place perspective. CASTER SUGAR and SILENT OASIS might be classed as more logical winners if you are ignoring the each opportunity the race has to offer.
20.35
Another each way eight runner spectacular to close the Sandown show though with fewer potential winners in the line up, bookmakers will not be worrying too much relating to the 'bet to nothing' investors. HARLESTONE SNAKE is the call with LONGBOAT KEY and ROYAL DIAMOPND offered up as the main dangers.
Outsiders to consider at Goodwood on Wednesday:
14.45: Chaperno
16.00: Topolski & Becausewecan
17.10: Fanditha
Beverley -- Tuesday 28/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 18.00: SHAYLEE
nb- 16.55: HONIMIERE
14.00
The three newcomers which catch the eye for one reason or another are AINTHEGORGEOUS, STORM COMMAND and AQUARIUS STAR, though Mark Johnston's beaten favourite PYTHEAS represents a yard which has won this race twice in the last four years.
14.35
9-13 should act as an anchor to stop King's Chorister even in this moderate event and the three horses that might best take advantage of the weight concessions are SAFFRON'S SON, KNEESY EARSY NOSEY and KOCHANSKI.
15.10
Karl Burke will be desperate to saddle winners in this uncertain time for the trainer whereby his Needwood Blade filly LUV U NOO has to be taken seriously, especially as this race will not require a great deal of winning in all probability. MISS TAKEN (arguably) sets the standard following just one outing when outpointed by Tamanaco at Pontefract on soft ground. The Ripon runner up TELL ME A STORY completes my trio against the field even though the winner Fly Silca Fly did nothing for the form at Newcastle at the weekend.
15.45
Even with his mind pre-occupied with Goodwood declarations, Dandy Nicholls has found the time to find another winning opportunity for his course and distance winner PRINCE NAMID. Tim Easterby has his team back in winning form to a fashion, whereby TOP BID attracts the eye, whilst SELECT COMMITTEE and REQUISITE are others worth a second glance.
16.20
Richard Whitaker has won this race in each of the last two years and sure enough NEVADA DESERT attempts to complete the treble following the two victories. Drawn eleven of fourteen on this occasion, the Desert King gelding has won from trap three on the two previous occasions in much smaller fields (eight and nine). CELTIC CHANGE (13) and BLUE CHARM (12) are also well drawn this time around.
16.55
The three 'recent' winners HONIMIERE, SANCTUARY and AMAZING BLUE SKY should dominate this event and the trio are listed in order of preference, which might not have been the case if SANCTUARY has been off the track for nearly eight weeks.
17.30
Six-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick which makes the single declaration of BRIGHT SPARKY all the more surprsing, especially as sixteen runenrs are set to face the starter. Given that I have three other selections on my side (hoping that all four place opportunites remain), the nominated trio is GALA SUNDAY, BIVOUAC and GENERAL TUFTO.
18.00
Four-year-olds have won five of the last nine renewals (including two of the last three) whereby course and distance winner SHAYLEE heads my interest in the contest, believing that SUMMER LODGE and FOSSGATE are the likeliest dangers.
Outsiders to consider at Goodwood on Tuesday:
14.10: Unbreak My Heart and Moyenne Corniche
14.45: Swindler
15.25: Finjaan
16.00: Totally Invincible
16.35: Waldvogel and Drill Sergeant
17.10: Mount Hadley and Bencoolen
17.45: Viking Dancer
Yarmouth -- Monday 27/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.00: BAARIQ
e/w- 16.30: TUDOR PRINCE
14.30
Clive Brittain (the only trainer of more than one juvenile winner at Yarmouth this season) has saddled three of the sixteen two-year-old winners at the seaside venue this season. Thirteen of the sixteen winners have emerged from the front three in the market whilst seven winning market leaders have been registered. Clive is represented by SHIBHAN and the Compton Place filly certainly has a chance of improving the trainer's ratio. SHOW WILLING is an interesting newcomer who might attract plenty of each way players whilst another debutante PETER'S FOLLIE completes my trio against the field.
15.00
This is the second of three juvenile events on the card whereby the stats in place for the opening race apply. A poor selling event in all honesty but if you must have a bet, the likes of AINTWOGRAND, POLLY MACHO and HACHI sould give you a run for your money.
15.30
This is the last of three two-year-old races on the Yarmouth programme. Clive Brittain is without a runner in the second race whereby his Xaar filly SHE'S OKAY certainly figures in my toteplacepot mix, albeit the contest appears trappy from a win perspective. GO FORTH NORTH and JANEIRO will rightly have their share of supporters in a race high on numbers but short on class.
16.00
Peter Chapple-Hyam has saddled three winners from as many runners in handicap events as Yarmouth this season whereby BAARIQ has to be the each way call.
Course and distance winner OH SO SAUCY and AUTUMN BLADES are likely to offer most resistance close home.
16.30
The ex Brian Meehan inmate TUDOR PRINCE showed plenty of ability as a two-year-old (good winner at headquarters on soft ground) and with plenyy of rain forecast for the East Anglia region today, Tony Carroll's five-year-old might register his fourth victory, albeit connnections will have been disappointed at his win to run ratio down the years. RIVER KIROV and SUNDAE are the alternative selections in the contest.
17.00
Four-year-olds have won three of the five renewals to date whereby WHITCOMBE SPIRIT, NO RULES and DAZZLING BEGUM should all run well from an each way perspective. BLACK OR RED is the reserve nomination.
17.30
A three-year-old won the inaugural contest via just two vintage representatives last year and WINTERFELL and WHOTSIT should go well whilst MICK IS BACK and ROCK ANTHEM might serve the older runners to best effect.
Pontefract -- Sunday 26/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.15: PITBULL
e/w- 17.30: SPIRIT OF CONISTON
14.05
The three winning favourites to date (via five renewals) have scored at 1/5--1/4--4/7 though I doubt that any of the nine declarations warrant such odds this time around. 'Team Duffield' is the only represented stable to have won this race before whereby this self confessed 'anorak' will include the relevant beast CIAN ROONEY in the mix, possibly alongside FLOW CHART and MORE LASHES.
14.40
The bottom five horses (of fifteen) are eliminated if you take the weight trends seriosuly as all three winners to date have carried 8-12 or more as have eight of the nine horses which have finished in the frame. The trio which immediately attrract the eye are MASTER NIMBUS, FOREST FLYER and APPLAUDE with MERRION TIGER nominated as the overnight reserve.
15.15
Three-year-olds had won the first five renewals before a six-year-old prevailed twelve months ago. KAISER WILLIE is the only junior representative on this occasion though Brendan Duke's Xaar gelding appears to have plenty to do via the form book. More logical winners include course and distance winner PITBULL and DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN.
15.50
Three and four-year-olds have dominated this event to date and the trend looks set to continue with the likes of RACKATEER, ORIZABA and COURAGEOUS in the line up. Course and distance winner Dream Lodge and Khateeb should represent the older runners to best effect.
16.25
BEL CANTOR comes to the gig on a hat trick in this event and though the six-year-old is not the force of old, Kelly Harrison's mount cannot be ignored in this grade. NORTHERN DARE, HARRISON GEORGE and SUNRISE SAFARI might offer most resistance in this sixteen runner handicap event.
17.00
Three-year-olds have won all three renewals whilst securing six of the seven toteplacepot positions. CLIENTELE, MERDAAM and Richard Fahey's newcomer LAURELDEANS BEST might serve the junior vintage to best effect on this occasion.
17.30
Five and six-year-olds had won the previous six renewals between them before a four-year-old prevailed twelve months ago. Six-year-olds have held the call claiming four victories to date and HOTHAM and SPIRIT OF CONISTON (this year's two vintage representatives) hold definite chances of improving the ratio. The pick of the five-year-olds might prove to be the course and distance winner COMPTONSPIRIT.
York -- Saturday 25/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.05: EMERALD GIRL
nb- 16.50: HAWK MOUNTAIN
14.05
Gertmegalush did the business for yours truly last time out at 25/1 though the bookmakers will not be as generous this time around. EMERALD GIRL and MERSEYSIDE STAR are feared most in this competitive Nursery event. Tim Easterby has saddled two of the three winners whereby OONDIRI is nominated as the overnight reserve. The three winners to date have been returned at odds of 7/1 or less (one winning favourite).
14.35
All five winners have carried weights of 8-9 or more whilst three favourites have won (biggest priced winner returned at 7/2 to date). LA COVETA, SPOUK and three-year-old AROMATIC might serve us best, with junior raiders having won four of the five races thus far.
15.10
Four-year-olds carrying 9-2 have won the last two renewals and the treble could be in the offing via this year's two qualifiers, namely ALLIED POWERS and CURTAIN CALL. KIRKLEES is the fairly obvious danger given his recent Dansonw victory.
15.45
Dandy Nicholls holds a strong hand here with four runners, the pick of which appear to be VALERY BORZOV and fellow course and distance winner STRIKING SPIRIT. KNOT IN WOOD and BARNEY MCGREW are two other contenders in a race which throws together many horses which have contested similar races against each other down the years.
16.15
This event might prove difficult for the four newcomers from from a win perspective with half decent experienced horses in the line up. L'ENCHANTERESSE, KEY ART and LOVEINTHESAND have all showed plenty of ability thus far and though I wouldn't back any of them in the competitive circumstances, I fully expect the winner to emerge from this trio. Favourites have prevailed in three of the seven contests to date whilst the biggest priced winner was returned at 10/1. Seventy horses have been sent off at odds of 11/1 or more without troubling the judge from a win perspective.
16.50
It's probably as well to stick with recent winning form against horses which flatter to deceive all too regularly. NEMO SPIRIT and HAWK MOUNTAIN are the winners in question whilst GRAND ART might best serve the rebels amongst you who want to take on the recent gold medallists.
17.25
The quartet of three-and four-year-olds finished well down the field in the inaugural contest last year, whereby I will stick to older horses such as ZOMERLUST, CONVINCE, BOLD MARC and INSIDE STORY on this occasion.
Newmarket -- Friday 24/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 19.40: AYE AYE DIGBY
nb- 20.45: FAJITA
17.40
Regular readers will know my stance in these amateur races whereby I simply look for the best 'jockeys' to steer average horses home to the best of their ability. The trio that pass the terst on this occasion are SKY QUEST, ENSNARE and BRAMALEA, with ARTREJU nominated as the overnight reserve.
18.10
Andrew Balding has found an ideal opoprtunity for his Red Ransom representative ROUGHAM to go close at the first time of asking though punters at the track will hold an obvious advantage. GALILEAN MOON is a more logical winner I guess whilst COTILLION is marginally preferred to Decision as the third member of my overnight short list.
18.40
Last year's 16/1 winner brought about an end to 'fancied' winners as the previous nine gold medallists have been returned at odds of 8/1 or less (three winning favourites). With none of the represented trainers holding a particularly strong record in the race (including Richard Hannon) I'll leave to COLOURSOFTHEGLEN to wage war with the opposition on my behalf, backed up by MASTER OF DANCE and RAINSBOROUGH.
19.10
Richard Hannon comes to the gig on a hat trick and the trainer is double handed which at least shows definite signs that Richard wants to land the treble. FOOTSTEPSOFSPRING is penalised for his Windsor victory whilst Kempton winner BLUE ANGEL receives five pounds from her stable companion. The Makbul colt COLONEL MAK demands to be included in the mix albeit that HAIRSPRAY contested the 'Cherry Hinton' last time out and could be good enough to land the spoils receiving weight from the Hannon pair.
19.40
Three of the last four winners have carried weights of 9-7 or more whereby ARTISTIC LICENSE and AYE AYE DIGBY make plenty of appeal whilst course and distance winner HAMOODY has to defy an absence of two months form the track and top weight. THE GALLOPING SHOE is the alternative selection.
20.10
Sir Michael Stoute (KENSINGTON OVAL) and Mark Johnston (STRAITS OF HORMUZ) have contested thousands of handicaps like this down the years and their two representatives could dominate the finish of this event. FAZBEE might be the each way call in this dead eight event.
20.45
All six winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more and though only the bottom three horses can be eliminated via the trends, ten contenders are easier to assess than thirteen. Course and distance winner and beaten favourite FAJITA should figure prominently, possibly alongside CAPO REGIME and the Redcar winner PAQUERETTZA, albeit the latter named runner has been off the track for the thick end of three months.
Bath -- Thursday 23/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: ANGEL'S PURSUIT
nb- 14.20: DUBAI SET
14.20
Nine of the last ten winners have been returned at 8/1 or less whilst three favourites have prevailed during the study period. Richard Hannonn saddled a 259/1 four-timer on Wednesday (via ten runners--four other representatives finished in the frame) whereby DUBAI SET and AVONGATE demand to be included in the mix. CHIPS O'TOOLE will win races as a two-year-old but whether the Fasliyev colt will be ready to score at the first time of asking remains to be seen. PRIMO DE VIDA is the other newcomer to keep an eye on.
14.55
Four and five-year-olds ahve shared four of the last five renewals between them and I expect the ratio to improve via the likes of SAMURAI WARRIOR, GHUFA and APRIL'S DAUGHTER.
15.30
A disappointing four runner event though Pat Dobbs has a rare chance to shine aboard Richard Hannon's Pastoral Pursuits colt ANGEL'S PURSUIT who contested a Group 2 event at Newmarket last time out.
16.05
Four of the last eight renewals have been won by the favourite whilst the biggest priced winner during the period was returned at 10/1. Fifty-eight horses priced at 11/1 or more during the eight year study period were all beaten. The Tatling could be worth taking on at twelve years of age, possibly with LIKE FOR LIKE, COMPTON CLASSIC and DIANE'S CHOICE.
16.40
Nine of the last ten winners scored at odds of 6/1 or less whilst the other gold medallist could hardly be described as an outsider at 9/1. That said, 'only' three favourites have won during the last decade. HILLSIDE LAD, HI SHINKO and SILKY WAY are my trio against the field.
17.10
Four well fancied winners have scored to date (including three favourites) whereby FONG'S ALIBI, AIR MAZE and HEARTSEASE should all figure prominently.
Leicester -- Wednesday 22/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 19.55: IT'S A DATE
nb- 19.20: PHEONIX ENFORCER
18.10
Having trained twice as many winners at Leicester this season (four) than his nearest rival, Mick Channon rules the juvenile waves at the track this season and his Compton Place colt BREEZE OF THE AIR is the each way call in the opening contest at the east midlands venue. LAYLA'S BOY is impossible to leave out of the mix whilst CHAIRMAN PAT completes my trio against the field.
18.45
The same stats for this two-year-old event remain in place from the opening contest whereby the chances of Channon's pair of Nursery contenders SAXBY and PINTURA are respected. The Bahamian Bounty colt ON THE BOUNTY won on this type of ground at the first time of asking and Paul Hanagan's mount can go close for the Fahey stable.
19.20
The terms and conditions of this event suit the recent Nottingham (heavy ground) winner PHEONIX ENFORCER who looks weighted to follow up. DIGIT and BLAZING BUCK might present the sternest challenges to the selection. Two of the last three favourites have prevailed whilst the biggest priced winner in the last five years was returned at 7/1.
19.55
Although the first task is to attempt to find the 'each way bet to nothing' in this dead eight event, it's impossible to ignore the claims of Luca Cumani's Dynaformer gelding HADA MEN. ROTATIVE and IT'S A DATE might follow the selection home.
20.25
Josephine Bruning might not be a familiar name to you but with two winners from her last four rides, the young pilot is making a name for herself. Jo rides RAFTA this time around who won by ten lengths with the apprentice aboard just five days ago. ALL FOR YOU and IASIA are the potential party-poopers in the line up.
20.55
A disappointing finale in all honesty whereby SUMMERS TARGET has an opportunity to lose his maiden tag at the eighth time of asking. VERINCO and SATWA STAR are the likeliest dangers.
Bangor -- Tuesday 21/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.30: DUTY FREE
nb- 18.00: POTEMKIN
18.00
The undoubted question is whether the recent Stratford winner ABERDEEN PARK can give nine pounds to Alan King's improving four-year-old POTEMKIN, though the fact that Charlie Huxley's mount has been given a recent outing on the level suggests that the seven-year-old will struggle, albeit I believe ABERDEEN PARK will snare the silver medal. MARIA ANTONIA looks booked for third spot.
18.30
Ian Williams attempts to win this handicap hurdle just a few days after training a Nursery winner on the level and having won with two of his last four runners at the time of writing, AVOINE is nominated to improve the ratio. STAR LADY is fancied to offer most resistance with ARCTIC SHADOW and THEHONOURABLELADY completing my quartet against the field.
19.00
Although Classic Swain let the side down on Sunday, the Paul Nicholls team remains in good heart in gerneral terms and FONT should only need to complete the course to score. RODRIGO GONZALES is tipped to fill the forecast position.
19.30
Tony McCoy has a decent record when riding for 'Edgy' Egerton and DUTY FREE might bring an end to a frustrating run of placed efforts. VACARIO is asked to give upwards of seven pounds to nine rivals which is a tough ask, even though the five-year-old has scope for a little more improvement. MISS MACTANGO represents the four-year-old vintage which has won three of the last seven renewals of this contest.
20.00
FREE GIFT has recorded back-to-back victories before but only on one occasion (via six successes) and the feat was achieved back in October 2007. The eleven-year-old might represent poor value for money in the circumstances. NOTICEABLE and FREEZE THE FLAME are preferred on this occasion.
20.30
The seven-year-old gelding FOLIE A DEUX scored at the thirteenth time of asking last time out over course and distance and though asking for successive victories is experme given his first twelve performances, this race will take very little winning. GLENGARRA and MY CONDOR could fill the placings.
21.00
Six-year-olds have won three of the last six renewals of this event whereby RUBY VALENTINE and CAMDEN FOUR are included in my overnight mix alongside IRIS'S FLYER and DAISON.
Beverley -- Monday 20/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.30: DESIRE TO EXCEL
nb- 21.00: MR FREDDY
18.00
Paul Midgley has done well with his juveniles this season whereby MRS JONES AND ME looks set to run well for the yard but that said, DIAMOND LAURA sets the obvious standard and David Evans looks set to train his fifteenth two-year-old winner of the season. MENEDIVA completes my trio against the field though DIAMOND LAURA is the definite selection.
18.30
A three-year-old reverted the race to type last year as a sixth vintage winner was recorded in the last ten years, albeit after a spell in the wilderness. I expect both three-year-olds to run well here, namely HONIMIERE and GULF OF AQABA whilst Richard Fahey's four-year-old GRACEFUL DESCENT should run well on behalf of the stable which has won this race twice in the last four years.
19.00
Horses drawn middle/high with definite chances on this occasion include VIOLENT VELOCITY (10/12) and RISING KHELEYF (6), though if more rain falls offering low drawn horses a winning opportunity, DIGGERATT might best serve the relevant beasts.
19.30
BAHAMIAN BALLET continues to frustrate connections and punters laike but with a stall position of 13/13 this time around, Ed McMahon's seven-year-old qualifies for one last chance before entering the famous 'saloon'. SELECT COMMITTEE cannot be ignored sitting just two stalls to the left of Andrea Arzeni's mount, whilst PRINCE NAMID (from an each way perspective) completes my trio against the field.
20.00
Like the proverbial stick of Beverley rock, this event has all the hallmarks of bookamker's result stamped all through it and I can only nominate the tentative and speculative trio of SAFFRON'S SON, GUILIN and RED MARGARITA.
20.30
Not as difficult as many 'short field' events at Beverley to solve, as course and distance winners DESIRE TO EXCEL and BURNS NIGHT have chances second to none between them.
21.00
Course and distance winner and beaten favourite MR FREDDY cannot be ignored, especially as trainer Richard Fahey had saddled eleven winners in the last fortnight having clocked up ninety seven gold medallists on the level in 2009. SAN SILVESTRO is the fairly obvious danger with BLUE CHARM offered as the each way call in the contest.
Stratford -- Sunday 19/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.10: JUST AMAZING
nap- 15.40: CLASSIC SWAIN
14.10
Six-year-olds have won three of the last four renewals whereby I am surprised that SYNONYMY is the only vintage representative in the field. Grand National winning jockey Liam Tradwell takes the ride and though the Blanshard raider carries plenty of overweight via the original handicap, I'll give SYNONYMY an each way shout. Horses carrying 11-3 or more have decent records in the contest of late and I'll offer up BATHWICK MAN and KHUMBU against the bottom weight.
14.40
Terms and conditions suit NORTH WALK who has won two of his last three races though the concession of fifteen pounds to the Newton Abbot runner up BET NOIR should bring the two horses together. BOLD POLICY could be the each way call in the contest, especially as Milton Harris places his horses to decent win and place effect.
15.10
COQ HARDI came down five out when attempting the hat trick but whether the eight-year-old can give JUST AMAZING six pounds (even given a clear round) is up for debate. Six-year-old JUST AMAZING must surely have more scope for improvement whereby Paul Nicholls is set to train another winner.
15.40
SEADER is a half intesting newcomer over timber though Paul Nicholls looks set to land a double with CLASSIC SWAIN having been declared in search of his hat trick. A winner of four of his last five races (finished second in the other event) CLASSIC SWAIN might be put away for a decent early winter campaign if winning this race in good fashion.
16.10
Tread carefully as the last two winners of this contest have scored at 18/1. This race could also go the way of the bookmakers though the likes of DANISH MONARCH, CLASSIC SHOT and ICANSINGARAINBOW should give us good service for our collective monies.
16.40
Nine time winner TEMPSFORD might atone for recent losses though recent winners BLACK ANSHAN and HOUSE OF BOURBON might be tough to pass late doors.
Ripon -- Saturday 18/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.35: OBSERVATORY STAR
e/w- 17.10: STYLE ICON
14.30
Mick Channon has won two of the last five renewals of this event and beaten favourite FLY SILCA FLY might atone for losses on this occasion. The last five winners have scored at odds of 100/30 or less (two winning favourites) whereby other fancied runners to consider include CROSS KEY and BEYOND DESIRE.
15.00
Not too much was expected of the Imperial Dancer filly NICOSIA at the first time of asking but along with stable companion FLASHY LOVER, I believe this pair will figure prominently in a race which trainer Mick Channon has won twice since its inception in 2003. Five of the six winners have scored at 4/1 or less (two winning market leaders) whereby DRINKING BUDDY would be of interest if Kevin Ryan's Reel Buddy gelding attracts money in the ring.
15.30
Three and four-year-olds have shared the last four renewals of this event and the trend is expected to continue via the likes of three-year-olds MR FREDDY and RAAEIDD alongside LADY RANGALI. Distant Memories is nominated as the overnight reserve.
16.00
The two top weights dominated the inaugural running of this contest twelve months ago whereby MATRAASH and FORTUNI are nominated against the 'short field'. Although only six runners are scheduled to face the starter, the sextet have all won races of late and the winner of this race should be worth following.
16.35
OBSERVATORY STAR should appreciate softening conditions and the course winner could bring welcome relief to Tim Easterby who trained a much needed winner at Cattericv the other day in what has (thus far) been a disappointing season by Tim's high standards. GALA CASINO STAR wears a visor for the first time which could bring about a winning performance whilst course and distance winner REEL BUDDY STAR completes my trio against the field.
17.10
Four-year-olds carrying weights of 9-4 or more have won two of the last three contests whereby this year's two qualifiers STYLE ICON and ISTIQDAAM form part of my attack on this twenty runners handicap. Terms and conditions allow me two other bites of the cherry via my self imposed rules, which on this occasion are AFRICA'S STAR and LA GIFTED.
Newbury -- Friday 17/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.10: SHOWCASING
nb- 15.45: LECEILE
14.00
Richard Hannon has saddled three juvenile winners at Newbury this season (more than any other trainer of two-year-olds) whereby Ryan Moore's mount POPPY SEED and the Richard Hughes ridden ZUBOVA are of particular interest, even though the trainer saddles three runners in the opening contest. Henry Cecil's Exceed And Excel filly WALK ON WATER is also a precocious type from what the jungle drums have been indicating.
14.35
Richard Hannon saddled six horses in the contest (taking in the opening comments inthe first event) whereby this race takes on the look of a lottery and no mistake. EMERALD COMMANDER might be the pick of the stable representatives though nothing can be set in stone in the circumstances. HAATHEQ, CHAIN OF EVENTS and POLTERGEIST are three of any number of potential dangers.
15.10
SHOWCASING is John Gosden's only juvenile winner of the season to date (via sixteen runners) and the fact that the Oasis Dream colt was good enough to run Arcano to a photo finish on his debut suggests that John should not feel too despondent about the state of his two-year-old affairs. WALKINGONTHEMOON returned to form with a vengeance last time out which makes Tom Dascombe's raider the likeliest danger.
15.45
Four of the last five winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more whereby my trio against the field consists of LECEILE, MULTIPLICATION and STAN'S COOL CAT in a typcially tough Newbury three-year-old handicap.
16.20
This is one of the toughest cards I have faced on a Friday in many a long day and with thundery showers occurring overnight, the test could become immense by the time that flag fall arrives for the opening race. Upwards and onwards in positive fashion however by suggesting that STEP IT UP, SISTER CLEMENT and ESPY should give us a decent run for our collective monies.
16.55
ASHRAM takes on the look of a typical Godolphin runner which should win but one I cannot back at one and the same time. THE CHEKA is the likeliest potential party-pooper to the blue colours on this occasion.
17.30
BRAMALEA is becoming expensive to follow and finds his way into my 'last chance saloon' in the finale. HATCH A PLAN and BEAUCHAMP WONDER are the possible horses to lower the colours of the beaten favourite this time around.
Hamilton -- Thursday 16/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.35: OPTICAL ILLUSION
nb- 15.25: EVENING SUNSET
14.20
With neither of the previous winning trainers represented this time around and Emerald Girl having been withdrawn, the way looks clear for MELODY IN THE MIST to go close at the third time of asking. AINTWOGRAND would not be one of the brightest lights in Mick Channon's juvenile yard but Acclamation filly could make the favourite pull out all the stops close home.
14.50
David Nicholls saddled the only winner of this race to date and the double could be in the cards via OBE GOLD on the occasion of the seven-year-old's seventy fifth outing! RACCON and HIGH CURRAGH are the potential party-poopers in the mix.
15.25
EVENING SUNSET gets the nod with Mick Channon having sent the Dansili filly an awfully long way in attempting to get the three-year-old off the mark at the tenth attempt. Beaten favourite PAINT SPLASH gets the marginal nod over Ask Dan as the chief threat to the southern raider.
16.00
Three-year-olds tend to mop up these mixed vintage affairs which has been the case in two renewals of this contest to date. MOON MONEY would be the each way call if I had to make one, thoguh more logical winners in the line up include URBAN POET and ACQUAVELLA.
16.35
Five-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick but only Richard Fahey has (seemingly) been live to the trend whereby course and distance winner OPTICAL ILLUSION has to be by main bet on the card, albeit in an interesting contest. Four of the seven runenrs are C/S winners and the pick of the other trio could prove to be TANGERINE TREES.
17.10
All three places were filled by horses carrying 9-0 or more in the inaugural running of this finale twelve months ago and I will remain loyal to the trend (such as it is after one event) by nominating DALAROSSIE, BOTHAM and CIRCUIT DANCER against the field.
Lingfield -- Wednesday 15/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.20: LITTLE SHARK
nb- 16.20: THE WITCH DOCTOR
14.20
A race which has surprisingly attracted plenty of leading stables, not least of which include Sir Michael Stoute (ALMUKTAHEM), Mark Johnston (EMIRATESDOTCOM) and Henry Cecil (MAYOLYNN). It would be surprising (and disappointing) if the winner failed to emerge from this trio.
14.50
Five of the six horses to have secured toteplacepot positions to date carried weights of 9-4 or more (including both winners) whereby two of the four qualifiers on this occasion make plenty of appeal, namely VITA MIA and FONG'S ALIBI from the top of the handicap. Both horses also tick the boxes from a win perspective as both gold medallists to date carried a minimum burden of 9-6. Others to consider include WELLESLEY and (to a lesser degree perhaps) KAYFIAR.
15.20
With no three-year-olds in the line up up this year, four-year-olds should have the run of the race, bearing in mind that the two vintages have secured four of the last five renewals between them (even split). The three relevant horses are listed in order of preference, namely LITTLE SHARK, CASUAL GARCIA and WHITCOMBE SPIRIT.
15.50
With the five horses with experience showing limited ability thus far, I'll settle for three of the newcomers to home in on here (listing in order of preference) LULUTI, SUZI'S A SMARTLADY and PUFF.
16.20
Four of the last five winners hailed from the four-year-old vintage whereby THE WITCH DOCTOR and ARABIAN SPIRIT (this year's two representatives) are inked straight into the eqaution. The best of the junior raiders on this occasion should prove to be FILM SET, especially with the Godolphin runners hitting top form of late.
16.50
Four favourites (of one description or another) have won this finale whilst the biggest priced gold medallists was returned at just 7/1 which in terms of a handicap event is a very fair record. Bookmakers are sure to get things their own way sooner or later but in the hope that the trend will continue, I'll settle for the three course and distance winners RAIMOND RIDGE, QUICK SINGLE and BEAUTIFUL FILLY against the field.
Brighton -- Tuesday 14/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.00: ARCOLA
nb- 14.30: PROFESSOR JOHN
14.30
The first thing to suggest to readers is that this meeting produced a toteplacepot dividend of over thirteen thousand pounds last year....so tread carefully! Luca Cumani's three juveniles have been out for the airing to date whereby Pictures can probably be watched on this occasion, even though the race will take next to no winning in all probability. The booking of Jamie Spencer aboard FAITH JICARO attracts the eye whilst Michael Bell's Haafhd colt PROFESSOR JOHN would not have to improve a great deal on his debut to effort to become involved at the business end of proceedings.
15.00
Four of the five winners to date were sent off at odds of 5/1 or less (one winning favoruite) whilst horses aged five or more have secured the last four contests. Course winner MAGICAL SPEEDFIT and NORTHERN EMPIRE make a modicum of appeal whilst three-year-old course and distance winner SATWA STREET might appeal to the rebels amongst you in terms of the vintage stats.
15.30
The bottom five horses in the handicap have plenty to prove as the three winners to date have carried weights of 9-0 or more, as have all nine horses to have secured toteplacepot positions thus far. The three market leaders have all finished out with the washing to date, albeit the biggest priced winner was returned at 9/1 which from a handicap perspective, offers each way punters a fair crack of the whip. My trio against the field given the stats and facts on offer is MOTOR HOME, MICK IS BACK and GRACECHURCH.
16.00
This is a new race on the Brighton programme which given the handicap status of the contest, represents a tough ask of punters. MAGGIE KATE is blinkered for the first time which will hopefully bring about a change of form, whilst others for the melting pot include JUST JOEY and course and distance winner DIANE'S CHOICE.
16.30
FUN IN THE SUN was beaten into second place in this contest last year and though running off a six pounds higher mark on this occasion, the five-year-old should secure another toteplacepot position at the very least. GEOFFDAW and DUKE OF MILAN are added to the mix whilst the recent course winner SAM'S CROSS is nominated as the overnight reserve. John Bridger's raider steps up a furlong in trip this time around though the four-year-old has not been sighted in three previous attempts at the distance.
17.00
It's been five years since a three-year-old secured this prize but it's worth noting that junior raiders had previously held a good record in the contest. Dave Simcock's course and distance winner ARCOLA could be the pick of the younger representatives this time around though another C/D winner PRIMO DILETTANTE also lines up with each way claims. ASTROLIBRA might best serve the older horses on this occasion. Goose Green has risen a long way in the weights and though I offer the five-year-old as the overnight reserve from a toteplacepot/each way perspective, I wouldn't back the Ron Hodges raider to actually win the contest with your money.
17.30
Beaten favourite PENANG CINTA is a course and distance winner worth another chance is this 'short field' finale, offering JAFARU up as the main threat.
Ayr -- Monday 13/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.30: ALEATRICS
e/w- 17.00: WHISPERING SPIRIT
14.00
'Team Teague' are in form at present whereby PRINCESS CHARLMANE could follow up her Musselburgh win last week, though twenty one previous starts without a registered victory had not indicated that the mare was about to lose her maiden tag. Michael Dods has booked the services of decent claimer Frederik Tylicki for his five-year-old raider TWOSHEETSTOTHEWIND, whilst ANGELOFTHENORTH (another Teague declaration) completes my tentative trio against the field.
14.30
Richard Fahey has saddled two of the four juvenile winners at Ayr this year (see stats below) though his Antonius Pius colt LORD AERYN will have to improve on his debut effort in order to catch the attention of the judge. Kevin Ryan has his runners in much better form now than was the case a few weeks back and via the Roman Ruler colt BALLYCOMMON, the trainer might add to the success he gained in the two-year-old sector at the weekend. The Key Of Luck filly BAHRAJ represents Mark Johnston who is seeking his twentieth juvenile winner of the current campaign.
15.00
Trainer Peter Monteith snared the inaugural gold medal twelve months ago and it is not beyond the realms of fantasy that he could notch a double in the contest, especially as the Midlothian handler has entered a trio of representatives this time around, namely TALK OF SAAFEND, HAWKIT and JORDAN'S LIGHT who are listed in order of preference
15.30
Some familiar names line up here and don't be surprised if the horses shake hooves on entering the stalls enquiring whose turn it is to win today! The nine runners flatter to deceive on a regular basis and whilst nominating HOTHAM, GLASSHOUGHTON and DIAMOND FIRE against the field, I wouldn't have a bet in the race with your your money funding the investment.
16.00
Jim Goldie's nine-year-old Lujain mare ROTHESAY DANCER continues to represent the yard to good effect and it's worth noting that Kelly Harrison's mount won the first running of the contest twelve months ago. Another course and distance winner in the field (DORN DANCER) could run well at potentially rewarding odds, whilst three-year-old PACIFIC BAY might take full advantage of the terms and conditions of this event.
16.30
Just twelve pounds seperate the top and bottom weights in this handicap event if you exclude the bottom horse Queen Of Dobbin form your thoughts, Lee Smyth's raider sitting fifteen pounds above her original handicap mark. It should pay to stick with horses which have actually won of late, rather than side with beasts which have yet another chance to end a run of frustrating results for connections. The trio I have in mind are ISLAND CHIEF, CRIME WRITER and TIGER REIGNS.
17.00
The Duffield team has endured a frustrating season with just twelve winners secured at the time of writing but WHISPERING SPIRIT holds an each way chance of taking the trainer on to the thirteen mark in another disappointing event on the Ayr card. John Harris saddles SION HILL again before the handicapper has a chance to raise his mark whereby the eight-year-old might offer most resistance in the final furlong alongside BLUE CROSS BOY.
17.30
Aleatrics was winning his second race in a run of five unbeaten efforts when securing this prize for Sir Mark Prescott last year and although ALICANTE has yet to start a winning run, this declaration could herald a change of form for the Pivotal filly. It's worth noting that Mark has the three-year-old entered in races at Lingfield (Wednesday) and Hamilton (Friday) whereby the trainer has indicated that quick reappearances could be the order of the day. MUSICAL MAZE and KING'S COUNSEL represent any threats in the contest if such a scenario exists.
Perth -- Sunday 12/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.40: BUACHAILL ON EIRNE
nb- 16.20: FLEMROSS
14.10
DESERT STORM, SPIRIT OF THE MIST and WORD OF WARNING should land the spoils between them but I wouldn't care to invest personally despite the fact that four of the five favourites have obliged in this opening event, whilst the biggest priced winner to date was returned at 3/1.
14.40
Six-year-olds come to the party on a hat trick and it would come as something of a surprise if either BUACHAILL ON EIRNE or CORKAGE fail to win this year's renewal.
15.10
Further winning trends should be confirmed here as the two five-year-olds POSH LADY and CARSONSTOWN BOY have been declared in a race in which vintage representatives have won the last two renewals. BACKSTAGE is the potential party-pooper in the line up.
15.45
No trends to work with as this handicap hurdle for conditional jockeys is a new race on the Perth card. Stakes should be kept to a minimum accordingly though course and distance winners LAHIB THE FIFTH and HARCAS appear to have the call between them. SHAHRAMORE also has a decent pilot in the plate which offers the four-year-old a realistic each way chance.
16.20
FLEMROSS is a mere seven years younger than the other logical winner in the line up (HOLLOWS MILL) and as the senior runner sits four pounds over the original handicap mark, the top weight is taken to offset the burden, even though a three-pound claimer aboard the thirteen-year-old might enable the old boy to snare another toteplacepot position.
16.50
Course winner OH YAH DANCER has to overcome a four month absence from the track but aside from that negative scenario, the seven-year-old should represent the Nicky Richards team to each way effect. SUMMER SOUL and NEWMAN DES PLAGES might offer most resistance up the home straight.
17.20
Ferdy Murphy has been saddling winners for fun under all codes of racing this year and a bumper victory might come his way here via his Supreme Sound mare SUNSET SONG. It's invariably worrying to include a five-year-old debutante in the mix, but this race will take very little winning in all honesty. BACHELOR LAD carries a penalty for his victory in Ireland but could still figure prominently, whilst BATTLE GROUP looks to be booked for third spot.
Chester -- Saturday 11/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.30: BORDERLESCOTT
nb- 14.55: I'M IN THE PINK
14.25
BALTHAZAAR'S GIFT has landed the plum draw of trap one and well treated by the conditions of this event, the Clive Cox raider could be another winner for Chester draw stat students. RED DUNE is another runner who has fared well (trap three), whilst NASHMIAH completes my tentative trio against the field in the opening contest.
14.55
The last six winners of this contest have carried weights of 8-12 which eliminates five of the eleven runners if you take the stats seriously. I'M IN THE PINK and THEOCRITUS sit bang on the barrier for good measure and both horses will figure in my Chester toteplacepot permutation alongside MUJAADEL who should go close from trap two under a decent claimer.
15.30
BORDERLESCOTT doesn't seem to know how to run a poor race and despite the fact that Chester might not be the ideal venue to give of his best, trap two has persuaded me to include the seven-year-old in the mix. If avoiding crowding in the turn for home, Pat Cosgrove's mount could wear down the opposition if he is within a couple of lengths of the leader at the furlong marker. Course and distance winners HOH HOH HOH (3/13) and CAPTAIN GERRARD (4) are other to consider in a typcial Chester 'bunfight'.
16.05
Not the strongest juvenile maiden that Chester has ever staged but the likes of SOCIAL GRACE and SHE'S OK could both go one better than when securing runner up positions last time out. JUST MANDY and WIJIKURA are the newcomers to peruse given that Dave Simock (Art Summer) has get to get off the two-year-old mark this season.
16.40
Beaten favourite DOLLY PENROSE should be worth another chance in this grade albeit Mark Johnston's three-year-old raider ACT OF KALANISI receives a useful eighteen pound concession from the marginal selection.
17.15
Fully fledged jockeys have enough trouble negotiating the turns on the Roodee whereby this apprentice handicap is the type of puzzle that could send you screaming for the men in white coats to come to your aid. I can only offer a specualtive trio against the other dozen runners in the circumstances which on this occasion are ZENNERMAN (despite the high draw), MAISON DIEU and VIOLENT VELOCITY. Good luck!
Ascot -- Friday 10/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.00: EIGHTEENFIFTY
nb- 16.10: LEMON N SUGAR
14.25
The pick of the newcomers according to the jungle drums I have been listening to are TAAJUB, FROZEN POWER and COUNT OF ANJOU and I certainly wouldn't rule out the last named Hannon raider just because Pat Dobbs has been booked to ride. Let's be honest straight away by suggesting that Pat is a work rider of great importance to the yard but many punters would prefer to see Hughes or Moore in the saddle. The Lion Heart Colt is owned by an American gentleman however, whereby he could be in London to watch his debutant run, irrespective of the fact that the main Hannon riders are otherwise engaged on Friday. TRAILBLAZING arguably sets the standard relating to the six experienced contenders.
15.00
There is no better venue to cock a snoot at the powers that be than Ascot, whereby Nicky Henderson would enjoy a success for EIGHTEENFIFTY, if the beaten favourite proved up to the task. More logical winners in the line up include ALANBROOKE and BERNIE THE BOLT, but boy would I like Nicky to have the last laugh on this occasion. One of the 'straightest' trainers the sport has ever seen (I have met Nicky on several occasions), I was horrified to witness Nicky's recent punishment. Some names in the business couldn't afford to pay the fine if they worked in the sport for another hundred years if the truth ever leaked out.
15.35
The Windsor winner NAVAJO CHIEF would have to be really useful to give weight to some well touted horses here, despite the manner of his tenacious success at the alternative royal venue. The Tagula colt SUITED AND BOOTED wasn't beaten far on his Newmarket debut and will come on a ton for the run, whilst newcomers PROMPTER and COCKNEY CLASS cannot be ruled out of the equation.
16.10
Not all of Jeremy Noseda's inmates have been running at full speed this season to date, but that accusation cannot be levelled against LEMON N SUGAR as the four-year-old comes to the gig on a hat trick with a definite chance of landing the treble, judged on his last (Goodwood) victory. CAPE ROCK enters the mix in receipt of weight from ten of his eleven rivals whilst my speculative each way selection FABREZE completes my trio against the field.
16.45
Having ridden two of her last seven horses to victory, Clare Lindrop will be champing at the bit to take another horse onto the racecourse and Jeremy Gask's six-year-old ONE WAY OR ANOTHER offers Clare an opportunity to improve upon an already impressive ratio. SPRING GODDESS and SARAH PARK might prove to be the potential party poopers in the line up.
17.20
Only a moderate finale by Ascot standards, the finish of which might be contested by RELATIVE STRENGTH, OVERTURN and ROBBIE BOBBIE, though monies between myself and the various layers up and down the land will not be changing hands.
Epsom -- Thursday 09/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.55: RUGELL
nb- 18.20: PENANG CINTA
18.20
Beaten favourite PENANG CINTA is worth another chance in this grade, especially with trainer David Evans continuing to send out winners for fun. CONSTANT CHEERS has to be considered despite the stopping weight of ten stones before David Probert's claim, whilst JO'BURG will be a popular choice, particularly from a toteplacepot perspective.
18.50
A tough race to become involved with financially because although several of the contenders have shown decent levels of form, the Epsom camber presents a whole new ball game as far as investments are concerned, particularly in juvenile events at the Surrey venue. If you must have a bet, consider the chances of RADIO CITY and COOL VALENTINE.
19.25
Course and distance winner EPSOM SALTS was an aptly named scorer here last time out and with Jack Dean's claim almost eradicating the penalty for the afore mentioned success, EPSOM SALTS has an opportunity to double up. NORMAN THE GREAT is nominated as the fairly obvious danger.
19.55
Winning form has been conspicuous by its absence of late via all four contenders, whereby the sensible call is to back Henry Cecil's four-year-old representative RUGELL, given the good form of the Warren Place inmates.
20.30
Three of the five winners have carried weights of 9-6 or more whereby course winner PRINCE OF THEBES demands respect despite his position at the top of the handicap. PHLUKE is marginally preferred to Tarzan via two of the other three runners which qualify from the weight trends.
21.00
David Probert remains great value for his three pound claim and WE HAVE A DREAM represents value for money from an each way perspective. Others worth a second glance in a competitive finale include CAPRIO and TYFOS.
Catterick -- Wednesday 08/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: PUY D'ARNAC
nb- 16.05: LUCKY BUDDHA
14.20
Four of the six favourites (via five contests) have won 2YO juvenile events at Catterick this year, whilst five different trainers have saddled the winners of the relevant races. The only winning trainer represented on this occasion is Mick Channon who saddles MUSIARA and connections of the Hunting Lion filly might have most to fear from ON THE PISTE and XAARA STAR on this occasion.
14.55
Six of the last eight winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more (including the last four) and with just four horses qualifying via the handicap burden this time around, I have the simple task of nominating YKIKAMOOCOW, MISTER TINKTASTIC and URSULA against the field. The fourth option SNOW BAY is offered up as the overnight reserve.
15.30
Horses carrying weights of 8-13 or less have prevailed in six of the last nine contests whereby PUY D'ARNAC and MY IMMORTAL jump off the page for different reasons. Alan Swinbank saddled five winners via just nine runners at the weekend and consequently, PUY D'ARNAC has to be included in the mix. MY IMMORTAL is ridden by the apprentice sensation of the season Jamie Kyne and the seven-year-old boasts definite toteplacepot claims at the very least.
16.05
Eight of the last nine winners carried weights of 8-10 or less whereby horses with feather-weights to consider here include LUCKY BUDDHA and MINTURNO, even though Ann Duffield's last named raider is set to carry 9-1. Course and distance winner REAL DIAMOND completes my threesome against the field.
16.40
Four-year-olds have won three of the four contests and my quartet of vintage representatives against the other contenders are PARTY IN THE PARK, IMPERIAL DJAY, BERTIE VISTA and BOSS HOG.
17.15
Four of the last five favourites have won the finale whilst the other market leader was beaten by the then minimum margin, namely a short head. Three-year-olds have dominated the contest as they invariably do whereby SPIEKEROOG should prevail, though hundreds of punters will give beaten favourite SOLAS ALAINN another chance given the fact that the four-year-old is trained by 'local' hero Mark Johnston.
Southwell -- Tuesday 07/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 19.40: PEACE CONCLUDED
nb- 21.10: DANCING LYRA
18.40
All six winners of this event have been returned at odds of 7/1 or less (three winning favourites). True Red has struggled to get home on fast ground whereby this slow surface is likely to count against Rod Millman's raider. More to my liking (as much as any horse appeals on this Fibresand surface from a betting perspective) are MAHIKI, ROYAL BLADE and SOUTHERN NEWSHANK, especially as runners drawn low have held the call in this contest to date.
19.10
Three-year-olds often get the better of their elders in these mixed vintage events at this time of the year, whereby my trio against the field is ROCKSON, LE REVE ROYAL and CARPE DIEM, even though the last named runner is a four-year-old!
19.40
One of the three favourites has secured a toteplacepot position though we await the first winning market leader. The two course and distance winners have to be of interest in a race where clues are conspicuous by their absence. The two horses in question are SWISS ART and ABOUKIR (listed in order of preference) whilst PEACE CONCLUDED might reward connections with a cheque of some description following their long journey from Devon. SILENT TREATMENT is nominated as the overnight reserve.
20.10
Three-year-olds have secured seven of the eight available each way position to date, stats which include all three winners. Two of the three favourites have obliged whilst the other (4/9) market leader secured a toteplacpeot position when finishing third in the relevant event. I would not back any of the three beaten favourites personally, though it is equally difficult to envisage the three horses failing to become competitive during the final stages of the race. The three horses in question are ABU DERBY, DEFECTOR and GEORGE THISBY.
20.40
Four-year-olds filled the forecast positions in the inaugural running of this event twelve months ago and vintage representatives PAPILLIO, YANKEE STORM and RIO SANDS should figure prominently this time around. Any money for ELUSIVE HAWK should be respected given the fact that the five-year-old is trained by Barney Curley whilst course and distance winners should always be considered, especially on this Fibresand surface.
21.10
DANCING LYRA enjoys two distinct advantages over the majority of his rivals given the fact that the eight-year-old is a winner over this course and is trained by Richard Fahey who can do little wrong at present. THREE STRINGS is one of the other four course winners in the line up, whilst the recent Hamilton winner PIVERINA completes my tentative trio against the other eleven contenders.
Ayr -- Sunday 05/07/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.10: BOLD BOMBER
e/w- 15.10: WILLYN
14.10
Paul Green has been saddling winners for fun of late whereby his Kyllachy colt BOLD BOMBER could run well from an each way perspective. The main dangers appear to be MONEYSUPERMARKET and PEDEGAL in a thoroughly disappointing opening event.
14.40
Beaten less than six lengths on his Hamilton debut, the Sakhee representative LAYLA'S BOY has to be respected hailing from the Fahey yard given the positive stats at this venue listed below. Money for Mark Johnston's El Prado colt IBN HIYYAN could paint an entirely different picture however, whilst beaten favourite COUNT BERTONI has an opportunity to atone for recent losses at this level.
2YO results at Ayr so far this season (3 races):
Winners trained by: 2--R. Fahey (2/5--8/11) 1--J. Howard Johnson (11/2). 3 favourites: 2 winners--1 unplaced. 1st 3 in betting: 3 winners--3 placed--3 unplaced
15.10
Horses towards the bottom of the weights have dominated the two renewals to date whereby the chance of WILLYN has to be respected from Jim Goldie's yard, whilst most resistance might emerge from the likes of stable companion CHIN WAG and APACHE NATION.
15.40
Richard Fahey has saddled an astonishing eighty six winners (at the time of writing) this year already and HERRERA could add to the tally. Beaten favourite IFATFIRST might be worth another chance in this grade/company, whilst similar comments could be posted about the prospect relating to FENNERS.
16.10
Four-year-olds snared the gold and bronze medals in the inaugural running of this contest last year and both vintage representatives ANOTHER DECREE and (particularly) KARGAN should figure prominently. Beaten favourite BOTHAM completes my trio against the field.
16.40
Horses carrying 9-0 or more snared the toteplacepot positions in the first contest twelve months ago and I expect the trend to continue via WHITE DEER, EZDEYAAD and TOTO SKYLLACHY.
17.10
Four-year-olds won the first two (of three) renewals and the I expect the finale to revert to type this time around with INGLEBY STAR and HANDSINTHEMIST holding leading chances. Course and distance winner CONJECTURE also demands plenty of respect.
Haydock -- Friday 03/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 18.40: ROCKETBALL
nb- 19.10: PARADISE SPECTRE
18.40
Four-year-olds snared the gold and bronze medals in the inaugural running of this event last year (favourite finished third) whereby It's difficult to reason why just one vintage representative has been declared this time around. ROCKETBALL is the horse in question and the Namid gelding might have most to fear from PEOPLETON BROOK and JILLY WHY in his quest to land his hat trick.
19.10
Eleven different trainers have saddled the 2YO winners at Haydock this season, whilst just three of the thirteen races have gone the way of the favourite. Six of the eleven contests have been claimed by horses figuring in the front three in the betting. Middle/high numbers have had the call when plenty of horses have lined up in juvenile contests at Haydock to date, whereby PARADISE SPECTRE (12/17) is expected to figure prominently, possibly alongside GOLD CRUSHER (10) and SMOG (9). That said, BLACK SNOWFLAKE runs from trap five and the Godolphin raider is obviously feared given his runner up effort at the first time of asking.
19.45
Given the draw stats mentioned in the previous analysis, you might suggest that my nominating MIAMI GATOR (1/14) goes agaionst the grain. I'll readily admit that the stall position will stop me from backing the top weight, though I still expect Karl Burke's Titus Livius colt to secure some of the prize money for connections. Karl has also (seemingly) been unlucky relating to a trap three position for his Noverre newcomer LORD RAGLAN. WE'LL DEAL AGAIN (12), AINTTWOGRAND (11) and ZASKIA (14) have been well served by the computer.
20.15
Mark Johnston has saddled nineteen winners during the last fortnight at the time of writing and as ever, three-year-olds lead the way for the popular trainer. Beaten favourite HALLSTATT represents the stable this time around, possibly having ITLAAQ and DISTANT MEMORIES to fear, the other two three-year-olds in the line up.
20.50
Favourites come to the gig on a hat trick whilst the last three winners have carried weights of 9-5 or more. Two of the qualifiers via the weight trends appeal on this occasion, namely ISLAND SUNSET and SILENT OASIS from the respective yeards of Messers Muir and Meehan. Thunderstorms should have reached the Haydock area by the time of flag fall for this event whereby Kevin Ryan's soft ground winner PETER'S GIFT might have conditions to his liking.
21.20
Five of the last nine renewals have fallen the way of favourites in this finale and horses towards the head of the market expected to run well include JA ONE, GOLDEN GAMES and BOLLIN JUDITH.
Chepstow -- Wednesday 01/07/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.40: PIAZZA SAN PIETRO
nb- 20.40: FULL VICTORY
18.40
Very much a race to watch and (hopefully) learn from with eight of the fourteen contenders making their respective debut appearances. The Hannon pair CARNABY STREET and RED BADGE have been pleasing connections at home whilst other newcomers for the short list include THE CONFESSOR and IRON VELVET. BAZSHARANI arguably sets the stardard relating to the experienced horses in the line up but it would be a little disappointing if at least one of the four newcomers mentioned in dispatches failed to make an impression in such a moderate contest. Three of the four favourites have prevailed in 2YO old races at Chepstow this season.
19.10
Favourites have won two of the three renewals to date whilst the biggest priced winner was returned at just 7/2. Dichoh eventually lost the plot when trained by Michael Jarvis following a decent start to his career whereby I prefer the likes of TANFORAN, RED CURRANT and even the newcomer in the field, the Key Of Luck gelding GUNNER BE LUCKY and no, not just because I'm an Arsenal supporter!
19.40
Beaten favourite PIAZZA SAN PIETRO is surely worth another chance in this (selling) grade with seemingly just the likes of CAPO REGIME and AUTUMN MORNING to beat.
20.10
This 'Extra Smooth' handicap event could challenge the advertising standards people in equine terms as this contest will take next to no winning. With seventeen runners having been declared I am least grateful that four places/selections are available which in this instance are LADY JINKS, LITTLE SARK, LE CORVEE and KING OF THE BEERS.
20.40
Seven furlong 'specialist' BEAUTIFUL BREEZE is asked to score over a mile for the first time but as trainer Mark Johnston knows a tad more than yours truly about the game, I'll offer the three-year-old a chance especially given the calibre of opponents. FULL VICTORY has been re-routed from Windsor where the seven-year-old did not take up the option of running and it's worth noting the vintage representatives have won two of the three renewals of this event to date. BERE DAVIS completes my trio against the field.
21.10
Four and five-year-olds have shared the four renewals to date and with middle/high numbers preferred I'll opt for the quartet of CHEAP STREET, GIOACCHINO, JUST JIMMY and PLUMAGE against the field.
Thirsk -- Tuesday 30/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.30: PARK'S PRODIGY
nb- 20.00: PALACEFIELD
18.30
Five-year-olds have won both renewals to date and three of the five vintage representatives appeal from a win and place perspective on this occasion, namely SIMPLY JIM, FISTRAL and PARK'S PRODIGY. Four-year-old JACKDAY probably represents the biggest threat to the vintage this time around.
19.00
Five of the eight favourites have won juvenile events at Thirsk this season whilst seven gold medallists emerged from the front three in the market. Richard Fahey remains in great form though the trainer has complicated matters on this occasion having declared three of the ten runners. BALLODAIR would seemngly be the call but I've been in the game far too long to take anything for granted. Mark Johnston is making ground on Richard Hannon and Mick Channon at the head of the two-year-old leaderboard whereby the Shamardal colt CALL TO ARMS must come under consideration especially from his stall seven position. Middle to high numbers have held the call this year which also brings LAYLA'S HERO into the equation though with just ten runners having been declared, any bias should be minimal.
19.30
Three course and distance winners catch the eye with VIOLENT VELOCITY, GLENRIDDING and HICCUPS holding definite each way claims. Beaten favourite PICKERING and another C/D scorer MALCHEEK potentially bar the way of the afore mentioned trio.
20.00
The Godolphin horses have blown hot and colt this season to date and though YIRGA will be a popular order, two other recent winners FESKO and PALACEFIELD cannot be overlooked.
20.30
When nine-year-olds win back-to-back races, coincidence comes into play rather than believeving that trends are in the making. That said, this year's lone vintage raider LIBRE has been running well from a toteplacepot perspective for many years and Tolley Dean's mount deserves respect. LIBRE has a low draw to overcome however (3/18) and horses expected to figure prominenently from the other end of the gate include PIANOFORTE (11), WHASTON (16) and Jim Best's recent winner HYPNOTIC (17).
21.00
Mark Johnston takes on the older horses with the lone vintage raider CRIMEA, a Kheleyf colt who made light of his debut scenario when scoring at the first time of asking over course and distance. Four-year-olds have won both renewals to date however, whereby connections of ARTSU and LE TOREADOR will fancy their chances of thwarting the young pretender.
Musselburgh -- Monday 29/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 21.25: POSITIVITY
nb- 20.25: MOOTED
18.55
MYSTIFIED, MONTE PATTINO and SIR SANDICLIFFE qualify for the short list via the talent of the 'pilots' in the plate whilst course and distance winner KYBER was trained specifically for these amateur events when trained by Luca Cumani. Trainer Jim Goldie is just as adept in placing his horses to winning effect.
19.25
Richard Fahey (THUNDER BAY), Michael Dods (TWOSHEETSTOTHEWIND) an Paul Midgley (SPIRIT OF CONISTON) are the three represented trainers that (particularly) have their runners in form at the time of writing.
19.55
MAL AND DAVE has become a fair yardstick in two-year-old races north of Watford via three outings to date whereby the David Nicholls raider appears certain to test the resolve of newcomer LICENSE TO TILL. Mark Johnston's War Chant colt will not represent value for money in all probability but the name of the game is to nominate potential winners, whereby it's night impossible to leave the February foal out of the equation. IGNATIEFF completes my trio against the field.
20.25
Four consecutive favourites scored before the fifth renewal of this event was won by a 4/1 chance twelve months ago. The likes of MOOTED and SOLAS ALAINN are likely to figure prominently in both the betting and the race itself. Last year's market leader was beaten 'three parts' for the record.
20.55
Couple together the fact that nine of the thirteen represented trainers have saddled winners of late with the news that this is a new race with no trends to work with and you will surely form the opinion that this is a tough race to assess. With no 'edges' to the jigsaw puzzle in place, I can only offer the tentative trio of GRAND DIAMOND, CARPE DIEM and FORBIDDEN against the field.
21.25
The bottom four horses in the handicap have it all to do according to the weight trends in this finale which reduces the field down to a managable size (ten) if you take the stats seriously. The trio that might best represent yours truly this time around are nominated as GEORGE ADAMSON, POSITIVITY and TRADE PRICE.
Windsor -- Sunday 28/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.10: BIRDINTHEHAND
nb- 16.00: KINGS OF LEO
14.25
A modest opening event in all honesty whereby the likes of SEQUILLO, BEST IN CLASS and PRECIOUS SECRET might be good enough to dominate proceedings which confirms my point about the mediocrity of the contest.
14.55
All four winners have carried weights of 9-3 or more which leaves us with just PISTE, COOL ART and COUNTRYWIDE CITY (the three top weights) to consider. The rebels amongst you that want to take on the trends might best be served by PURE RHYTHM on this occasion.
15.25
Sir Michael Stoute's beaten favourite THE FONZ must be given a chance to atone for losses receiving weight from all five rivals. Henry Cecil's Perfect Soul filly SOMETHING PERFECT might offer most resistance close home in a race dominated by top stables to date.
16.00
Richard Hannon had saddled six of the eleven juvenile winners at Windsor before the weekend and the trainer held two options at the five-day stage. Richard has offered the green light to both KINGS OF LEO and WHITE DAFFODIL. EXISTENTIALIST might prove to be the party-pooper from a Hannon perspective if the stable is to be beaten on this occasion. Four of the eleven favourites have prevailed at Windsor this season in the juvenile sector whilst nine winners emerged from the front three in the market.
16.35
Jeremy Noseda appears to have plenty of four-year-olds in training which have been hit hard by the handicapper (The Galloping Shoe springs to mind) whereby THE WITCH DOCTOR could be found out from a weights and measures perspective. CAPE HAWK and VAINGLORY should prove to be the benficieries if the four-year-old finds the burden too much to bear.
17.10
Three-year-olds have won both renewals to date and BIRDINTHEHAND and DARK OASIS appear to be the obvious selections in the finale.
Newmarket -- Saturday 27/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.50: CLASSIC PUNCH
nb- 16.35: TRUMPET LILY
13.50
The Noverre colt TIMELY JAZZ offers Robert Havlin another show to show off his underrated skills and I would not be at all surprised if the March foal becomes involved in the finish. SUITED AND BOOTED is another interesting newcoemr whilst IRISH JUGGER and MISSIONAIRE have shown plenty of ability already.
14.20
This Listed event for fillies offers plenty of potential with the likes of MUDAARAHH, REACH FOR THE SKY and JEANNIE JOHNSTON in the line up. The first named pair are unbeaten after just the one outing and put their records on the line in a competitive renewal. HAIRSPRAY and VANISHING GREY add icing to a very tasty cake.
14.50
Chances are that All The Aces will wait for softer ground which would take the contest into dangerous 'win only' waters but seizing the opportunity to select two runners at the time of writing, I'll nominate CLASSIC PUNCH and WASAN to get the better of Age Of Reason close home.
15.25
WINKER WATSON bounced off fast ground a few years back and if the thunderstorms steer clear of this part of the country, Peter Chapple-Hyam's four-year-old could yet bounce back to winning ways. More logical winners in the line up arguably include stable companion AL QASI and Andrew Balding's DREAM EATER.
16.00
A race for horses that flatter to deceive in the main, though connections of CHARLIE COOL might be vexed by such comments given the six-year-olds success 'out east' earlier in the year. MYSTERY STAR and ALAZEYAB complete my trio against the field.
16.35
Windsor's beaten favourite (five days ago) CUMANA BAY is offered a quick chance to gain compensation for connections though course and distance winner TRUMPET LILY is fancied to block the path of her younger rival, despite the consession of a stone to Richard Hannon's filly.
17.05
A disturbingly difficult handicap to close out Newmarket's meeting, whereby I can only offer the speculative and tentative trio of KING OF THE MOORS, PRETTY OFFICER and KING'S ICON against the field.
Doncaster -- Friday 26/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 16.35: TOO TALL
nb- 17.40: OUTLANDISH
14.20
Just two of the eight favourites at Doncaster in the juvenile sector have won this season, whilst four gold medallists emerged via the front three in the market. Richard Fahey is the only trainer to have saddled more than one two-year-old winner at Doncaster this season whereby WIGAN LANE figures prominently in my overnight thoughts, whilst others to consider include PROPER LITTLEMADAM and PERFECT BLOSSOM. Mark Johnston's beaten favourite CHERRY BEE will once again represent poor value for money, though a victory for the Acclamation filly cannot be ruled out of the question.
14.50
Last year's winning four-year-old was one of just three older runners in a ten strong line up which offers hope to PAPILLO, albeit three-year-olds invariably win this type of event at this time of the year. The pick of the junior raiders on this occasion might prove to be the newcomers MISS FRANGIPANE and LEVERAGE.
15.25
THE GALLOPING SHOE remains something of an enigma whereby I guess the minute I leave Jeremy Noseda's four-year-old out of the equation, the Observatory gelding will pop up when I least expect. Beaten favourite CASTLES IN THE AIR is arguably a more logical winner of this event, whilst TIGER DREAM completes my trio against the field given Kevin Ryan's recent return to form.
16.00
PYCIAN was matched at 1000 in running on the exchanges on his debut, such was his tardy start and lack of immediate response to urgings from the saddle. The Mark Of Esteem gelding made up for lost time late doors whereby the March foal is my selection to 'follow up' in this four runner (win only) event.
16.35
A typically tough three-year-old Doncaster handicap to assess which offers a double whammy as just fifteen runners have been declared, robbing yours truly of a fourth option. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that JACK COOL, LEGAL LEGACY and TOO TALL should figure prominenly in a relatively tight event, given that 'only' eleven pounds separate the top and bottom weights. Doric Echo is nominated as the overnight reserve.
17.05
Nineteen pounds is the differential (top and bottom weights) relating to this handicap event which has attracted just ten runners, confirming my point about the 'tight' offering in the previous event. The three horses which filled the placings in last year's inaugural event all hailed from down towards the foot of the weights, and with no other trends to work with I'll offer THE SCORCHING WIND, BLUE NOODLES and UNBELIEVABLE JEFF against the other seven contenders. The booking of Ryan Moore aboard the Stuart Willaims beaten favourite THE SCORCHING WIND makes particular appeal at the time of writing.
17.40
Ryan Moore remains at Town Moor for the finale which is somethign of a tip in itself whereby Emma Lavelle's six-year-old representative OUTLANDISH is the call. The Dr Fong gelding has finished 'in the two' seven times via twelve outings to date, winning on three occasions. GRAND ART has been dropped a notch by the handicapper which suggests that the five-year-old clould be worth another chance in this grade.
Warwick -- Thursday 25/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.20: TURNING TOP
nb- 15.50: DAMANIYAT GIRL
14.15
Favourites have won five of the seven renewals to date whilst six of the gold medallists were returned at odds of 4/1 or less. REDDY TO STAR has met with three narrow defeats to date whereby punters will start to lose heart with the Redback colt unless he wins very soon. I doubt that any of the other experienced runners will be able to lower his colours, though the newcomers BALLACHULISH and MDAWEE are reportedly precocious types that could act as party-poopers.
14.45
Last year's winner PETER ISLAND runs off a far higher mark on this occasion and could have trouble fending of challenges from the likes of BENLLECH and course and distance winner MUSIC BOX EXPRESS. This trio make up my overnight mix in a disappointing event.
15.20
Three-year-olds have won this event since the old king died and the trend could continue via BENNELONG and TURNING TOP, especially as Simon Callaghan's well named Pivotal filly receives weight from all bar two of her seven rivals. Patrick Chamings has found a realistic opportunity for his Kyllachy colt SCOTTISH GLEN to go close at the first time of asking.
15.50
A half decent Listed race for fillies with my trio against the field consisting of DAMANIYAT GIRL, FARAWAY FLOWER and SELECT. The last named pair are speculative calls based on their reputations as juveniles whereas DAMANIYAT GIRL is blinkered for the first time and expected to improve upon good form already registered in the three-year-old sector.
16.20
I suggested on another website that PARC DES PRINCES would run a good race at Windsor on Monday evening and so it proved and I'm not at all surprised that trainer Andrew Balding has sent the colt out quickly again on behalf of the stable. Clive Brittain is the only represented trainer to have won this race before whereby HYPNOTIST completes a speculative pair against the field in this 'short field' line up.
16.50
Regular readers will know my stance on these amateur races only too well, where I am influenced by the jockey more than the equine 'stars' as a general rule. The trio that qualify via their riders on this occasion are course and distance winner AGGBAG, TANFORAN and JUST OSCAR.
Bath -- Wednesday 24/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 19.10: MONTMARTRE
nb- 21.10: PRINCESS ROSE ANNE
18.40
Three extremely interesting newcomers line up in this opening event, whereby MISTER HUGHIE and ELECTIONEER are fancied to beat the beaten favourite Master Of Dance, whilst the third option (BLUSHING) cannot be discounted. Mick Channon has won four of the eight renewals which is why MISTER HUGHIE has been given pride of place at the top of my list. Just one favourite has obliged during the study period and given that market leader scored at odds of 2/7, level stake investors long since gave up the ghost!
19.10
MONTMARTRE is arguably the most consistent of the sixteen declarations and given that this is a selling event, the Awesome Again gelding will not receive many better opportunities to get off the mark, this time at the sixth time of asking. Potential threats could emerge form the likes of HECTOR SPECTRE and MR FLANNEGAN.
19.40
Given that the three winners of this event have carried weights of 8-13 or less to victory, the course and distance winner MASTER MAHOGANY could register his sixth victory, albeit via a disappointing strike rate. Four-year-olds have won two of the three contests thus far, whereby vintage representative SAMURAI WARRIOR is nominated as the main danger.
20.10
Five of the eight runners represent the four-year-old vintage which has secured both renewals of this contest to date. This 'dead eight' renewal offers an each way chance to ORONSAY, SOLO RIVER and DYNAMO DAVE, providing the bookmakers chalk up the relevant odds.
20.40
Just one four-year-old has won during the last decade which is par for the course in this type of event. The pick of the junior raiders would be regarded as LORDS A LEAPING, though Jamie Osborne's Bahamian Bounty colt was due to contest an event at Brighton on Tuesday as I was writing this column. BORROMEO and FISADORA would be the calls to contest the finish if the Osborne raider missed the gig.
21.10
Four-year-olds have won three of the four contests whilst all the gold medallists to date carried weights of 9-4 or more. A short list of PRINCESS ROSE ANNE and HEAVEN emerges via the facts and stats.
Brighton -- Tuesday 23/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.30: ROCKFIELD LODGE
nb- 17.00: LORDS A LEAPING
14.30
This is a poor opening event and it's difficult to know just why these Brighton juvenile races attract such few runners these days. Yes, the hill is a factor but rarely are injuries to horse or jockey witnessed and I just hope that declarations increase as the year goes on. As for this race, CRAICATTACK and YAWARY might dominate the finish, though monies will be safely held under lock and key.
15.00
Just seven days ago we were anticipating the opening day of the Royal Ascot meeting and though I can't put my finger on the problem, today's meetings don't quite have the same feel to them! We're one short of a fourth place option in this event, whereby my trio against the field consists of course and distance winners PRINCE VALENTINE and LANCASTER LAD, accompanied by John Dunlop's local three-year-old raider KYLE OF BUTE.
15.30
ROCKFIELD LODGE appears well treated by conditions of this selling event whereby the four-year-old is the first horse pencilled in. Stable companion JOSS STICK and EASY WONDER are rated as the chief threats on this occasion.
16.00
Five-year-olds come to the party on a four-tuimer and though only MY LEARNED FRIEND represents the vintage this time around, the trend might continue. REBEL CITY has to enter the equation given the weight-for-age concession whilst LOUPHOLE can also become competitive inside the final furlong, from a toteplacepot perspective at the very least.
16.30
Four-year-olds have won the last two renewals whereby CORAL SHORES is fancied to follow up his recent Warwick victory, albeit there was some moisture in the ground at the midland venue last week. STRIKE FORCE and PENANG CINTA could represent half decent value for money if you believe the different conditions will stop Coral Shores in her tracks.
17.00
LORDS A LEAPING is the stand out junior raider of the two three-year-old declarations and Jamie Osborne's Bahamian Bounty colt should go close, especially as the three-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick. Beaten favourite GROSS PROPHET could be worth another chance in this grade/company whilst STEIG and course and distance winner OGRE can also make their presence felt at the business end of the contest.
17.30
Older horses boast the best recent record in the finale whereby COSMIC DESTINY (seven-year-olds have won two of the last three contests), MALAPROPISM and GREEN LAGONDA are expected to figure prominently.
Chepstow -- Monday 22/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.50: I'M IN THE PINK
nb- 20.50: GETCARTER
18.20
TRUE RED (arguably) deserves to win a race and as an active tiny filly, the Redback raider requires fast ground and the minimum trip. Her trainer Rod Millman should be congratulated for finding a winning opportunity but she would be hard to place from a victory perspective if she cannot land this weak event. Any of the other four runners in the contest could prevail in all honesty, though I'm hoping (possibly against hope) that TRUE RED can earn her potential paddock fee by securing a victory. Whether she is big enough to eventually foal is another matter entirely!
18.50
Milton Bradley saddles five of the twelve runners and THE TATLING has offered a late lease of life (albeit in class six company--previous Group 2 winner of a race now upped in status!), the same cannot be said of SPANISH ACE, though I remain convinced that the eight-year-old will win a race again one day. GREEN LAGONDA might be the potential partry pooper in the line up on this occasion.
19.20
It's interesting to note that having waited so long to saddle WARRANTS ATTENTION who made his debut at Sandown recently, Andrew Balding sends the Fruits Of Love on another mission just nine days later. The Sandown contest was always going to prove too hot for the March foal but this is another ball game entirely, albeit the booking of an apprentice hardly inspires confidence though to be entirely fair, the lad in question has had over fifty rides in public and has idden three winners. PERFECT SHOT is a more logical winner via the form book whilst GUILIN completes my trio against the field.
19.50
Course and distance winner Uig would be up to winning a race of this nature but the eight-year-old has lost the plot of late, wehreby I'M IN THE PINK and BY COMMAND might be safer nominations this time around.
20.20
Three-year-olds have secured five of the six toteplacepot positions to date (including both winners) which is as nature intends at this time of the year. STELLAR CAUSE and ROYAL SUPERLATIVE have shown modest form to date but (hopefully) have some scope for improvement , whilst Tony Carroll likes nothing better than saddling winners here at Chepstow whereby his debutant SQUARE OF GOLD cannot be entirely dismissed.
20.50
WHOS WINNING could hardly be described as the most consistent of scorers (beaten on his last thirteen outing since winning in August last year) but a toteplacepot position should be up for grabs here having been dropped another notch by the handicapper. A more realistic winner in the line up is GETCARTER whlst the Compton Place maiden ROWAAD could benefit from a first time visor and is another runner to consider from an each way perspective at potentially rewarding odds.
21.20
The four winners to date have each carried weights of 9-1 or less whereby my short list comprises of WHEN DOVES CRY, EVENING SUNSET, HEARTSEASE and PREMIER KRUG in this seventeen runner finale.
Hexham -- Sunday 21/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.20: CHANGING LANES
nb- 16.50: DEAD OR ALIVE
14.20
It makes a change to return to NH racing which might come as a bonus for male readers on Father's Day. A few winners would be of far more interest and URBAN TIGER has to be among the front runners in the opening event on the card. Most resistance might be offered by SUMAK and WORD OF WARNING, especially as five-year-olds have won the last six renewals of this contest.
14.50
The last three winners have carried weights of 10-9 or more whereby the bottom three horses in the handicap have been 'eliminated' according to the gospel of yours truly. The pick of the eleven ramaining runners might prove to be STEPCHANGE, SUPER ROSS and beaten favourite ARCTIC COVE.
15.20
Seven-year-olds have won seven of the last eight renewals yet only DODGEY DREAM potentially represents the vintage this time around and the form book suggests that Peter Buchanan's mount will struggle in this grade. More logical winners include ARMENIAN BOY and possibly KIRCASSOCK VIC.
15.50
The last five winners have carried weights of 11-2 or more and as just two horses qualify in this seven runner event, my task is relatively simple whereby ACAMBO is marginally preferred to WIKAALA despite the concession of seventeen pounds. CALCULAITE is offered up as the overnight reserve.
16.20
Tim Vaughan (CHANGING LANES) and J.J. Lambe (BALAKAR) represent the in form yards involved in the contest and both horses will represent yours truly in my toteplacepot permutation. Course and distance winner HASPER is considered the chief threat given Ryan Mania's useful five pound claim from the saddle.
16.50
Six-year-olds have won two of the last three renewals of the finale and the ratio could be improved by a victory for DEAD OR ALIVE who has won three of his last four races having unseated on the other occasion. Timmy Murphy is an eye catching booking aboard COME TO THE PARTY (another six-year-old in the line up) whilst CORPORATION completes my trio against the field.
Haydock -- Saturday 20/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.35: LIGHT SLEEPER
nb- 20.05: BRASINGAMAN HIFIVE
18.35
Course and distance winner PRINCESS RAINBOW would have a fine chance of following up a recent soft ground victory if adapting to these different conditions. The four-year-old was not winning out of turn given that two runner up efforts had been offered via four previous starts. LILAC MOON and HIPPOLYTUS might prove to be the beneficieries if the selection fails to act on faster ground.
19.05
All six horses to have secured win and place positions via two renewals have carried weights of 8-10 or less, whereby PEPPER LANE, GOWER SOPHIA and GOODBYE EARL should prove to be the pick of the ten runners. Potential rebels amongst you will latch on the decent effort of Mal And Dave last time out.
19.35
Both winners have carried weights of 9-1 or more, as have four of the six horses to have secured ttoeplacepot positions thus far. MANGO MUSIC, FEELIN FOXY and SOUL SISTA are the chosen trio of the four 'qualifiers' this time around.
20.05
Given that no three-year-olds have been declared in a race which would normally favour the junior raider, I'll have to stick with the two four-year-olds in the line up, namely NEVER ENDING TALE and the course and distance winner BRASINGAMAN HIFIVE.
20.35
Potential thieves might cast their eyes away from the Royal Ascot card for a while to attempt to find the proverbial 'bet to nothing' each way steal in this 'dead eight' event. PICTURETHATMOMENT and ELUSIVE MUSE could run well at what should emerge as each way prices, though whether either horse will get the better of LIGHT SLEEPER is highly debatable.
21.05
An interesting finale with at least four potential winners in the seven-strong line up but I'll stick with my 'anorak' tendencies by supporting the top two horses in the handicap via past results, namely ROYAL EXECUTIONER and LASTROAROFDTIGER.
Outsiders to consider at Royal Ascot on Saturday:
15.45: Art Connoisseur
16.25: Exclamation, Genki and Evens And Odds
17.00: Inventor, Ghimaar and Crackentorp
Goodwood -- Friday 19/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 18.20: JACHOL
e/w- 20.30: RELATIVE STRENGTH
18.20
All three winners have carried weights of 9-2 or less to date, whereby JACHOL, TRANSFORMER and BISHOP ROCK might get us off to a good start between them.
18.50
John Gosden's runners appear to have gone off the boil at exactly the wrong time whereby QUEEN ELEANOR is not quite the confident call she would otherwise have been. The Cape Cross filly might still take the beating however, though both KAPSILIAT and SILENT OASIS might push her all the way to the line.
19.25
John Dunlop introduced his first two-year-old runner of the season to winning effect here at Goodwood earlier in the year and GOODWOOD DIVA has long since been one of John's major juvenile hopes for the season. FOLLETTA has shown ability on both outings to date and is a confident vote to secure a toteplacepot position whilst SHE'S OK looks just the type to appreciate an additional furlong.
19.55
There are some good races on this evening card and none more so than this handicap event which is confined to fillies. William Buick can ride at a very low weight whereby too much lead in the saddle will not assist the top weight Oceana Blue and I prefer the trio of BALAAGHA, LABISA and FLEETING STAR against the field.
20.30
Andrew Balding won this event twelve months ago with a low weighted individual and RELATIVE STRENGTH can represent the stable to each way effect at the very least. The main dangers appear to be STORYLAND and YES MR PRESIDENT.
21.00
A draw of nine (of ten) should enable KILBURN to become involved at the business end of the contest, whilst POTENTIALE and IVORY LACE from the top of the handicap could offer most resistance to the five-year-old.
Outsiders to consider at Royal Ascot:
(Twenty five horses offered thus far: Winners at 12/1 and 10/1, placed horses at 33/1--25/1--16/1--12/1--8/1)
15.45: Rainbow View
16.20: Khateeb
17.30: Musaalem
Leicester -- Thursday 18/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.10: COTSWOLDS
nb - 20.40: ACQUISITION
18.40
It's unusual for a two-year-old race at present not to include runners from the successful Richard Hannon and Mick Channon stables, and the fact that MINGUN BELL was amongst the five-day acceptors might be the reason for the handlers being conspicuous by their absence. THE MIGHTY MOD and ISHTAR GATE should prove to be the pick of the newcomers though Sir Mark Prescott's Motivator gelding COMEDY ACT also catches the eye.
19.10
A trappy contest with just seven runners having been declared and the safest nominations from a win and place perspective might be RIO COBOLO and beaten favourite MATTAMIA, with Rod Milman's three-year-old marginally getting the nod at the overnight stage.
19.40
Stan Moore's raider FONG'S ALIBI has this race there for the taking if the Dr Fong puts her best foot forward. The dangers are nominated as GARTER KNIGHT and WABI SABI.
20.10
COTSWOLDS makes plenty of appeal receiving weight from six of his eight rivals here, though from a toteplacepot perspective, EFFIGY and CARA'S REQUEST will be popular horses. VAINGLORY is nominated as the overnight reserve.
20.40
The vintage stats weigh heavily against older horses against three-year-olds at this time of year though Mike Murphy's six-year-old representative Trempari should not be ignored as the stable has secured victory with three of their last four runners at the time of writing. More logical winners in the line up include ACQUISITION and MONACO DREAM.
21.10
Nigel Tinkler was always going to be looking for five pound claimer Lee Newnes to renew his association with MISPLACED FORTUNE following two successive victories for the Compton Place filly. FOL LIAM and HAZYTOO are likely to offer most resistance close home.
Outsiders to consider for each way interest at Royal Ascot:
14.30: Radiohead
15.45: Washington Irvine
17.30: Takatuff and Chiberta King
Ripon -- Wednesday 17/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.50: LOVELY THOUGHT
nb - 21.20: PRIME CIRCLE
18.50
Karl Burke has his team in fine form whereby the recent Wolverhampton runner up OFFICER MOR is expected to go one better. NAWAAFF could go well at potentially rewarding odds given the form of the Mick Channon team whilst others to peruse include BRIGHT FALCON and PICCOLO PETE.
19.20
Talking horse FARMER GILES might be in the last chance saloon as far as many punters are concerned and fair play to Michael Bell who has found another winning opportunity for the Danroad colt though whether the February foal wants to take it is another matter entirely. LUCY GLITERS might be the pick of the newcomers whilst ORPEN GREY is expected to come on for his first outing.
19.50
A half decent race for the venue in all honesty with LOVELY THOUGHT holding an obvious chance according to the gospel of yours truly. DOVE MEWS thrived under Hayley Turner last year but terms and conditions are in her favour here whereby she might rediscover winning form. THE KYLLACHY KID completes my trio against the field.
20.20
Each way thieves could be forgiven for casting their eyes away from the Royal Ascot meeting with the potential to back horses from a 'bet to nothing' perspective with eight runners having been declared for this contest. Course and distance winner Vicious Warrior appears to have lost his way and my trio to home in on is PRINCE EVELITH, WIGWAM WILLIE and COEUR DE LIONNE who could be the win and place plunge raider, if such odds are available.
20.50
Potential thieves have been thwarted as a non runner has reared its ugly head already; hence just two places are now up for grabs. David Probert's useful three pound claim might be enough for SUMMER LODGE to regain the winning thread following two runner up efforts of late. Beaten favourite BOLLIN GRETA might find compensation here for the Tim Easterby team.
21.20
Mark Johnston should be congratulated for finding a winning opportunity for his Green Desert gelding PRIME CIRCLE to win at the first time of asking with MAVERIN probably being the horse to beat. CRIMSON MIST is another newcomer which might win a race in the fullness of time.
Potential outsiders to consider for each way interest at Royal Ascot:
14.30: Ouqba and Infiraad
16.20: Mahadee and Axiom
16.55: Ceedwell
17.30: Please Sing and Rose Diamond
Thirsk -- Tuesday 16/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 17.10: ELIJAH PEPPER
nb - 14.50: JEHU
14.15
LORD RAGLAN is one of just two newcomers in a fourteen strong field and Karl Burke's Noverre colt would not have to be anything out of the ordinary to become involved in the finish. JOEL THE MOLE could not recover from a tardy start on his debut and will know more about what is required now, whilst others to consider are the Hamilton winner DISPOL KABIRA and BOTHWELL CASTLE.
14.50
JEHU has contested two races to date which were won by Coventry Stakes runners on Tuesday whereby this company will be more to his liking. LOCAL LOCAL HERO and BAHAMIAN MUSIC are two interesting newcomers whilst FANTASTIC PICK can perform better now with a run under his belt.
15.25
Beaten favourite SMALLJOHN is a course and distance winner who can be given another chance in this grade, possibly having SPLASH THE CASH and another C/D winner APOLLO SHARK to beat.
16.00
Four-year-olds are on a hat trick in this contest the vintage having won four of the last eight contests. This year's two representatives CLASSIC LEGEND and LADY RANGALI will do for me against the field in this seven runner line up.
16.35
Another 'short field' line up which makes this race tough to asses but with four-year-olds having secured two of the three contests to date, RIVER ARDECHE and TIMOCRACY should represent us to decent each way effect between them.
17.10
Northern stalwarts have a good record in this event and the likes of Kevin Ryan (RASAMAN and HIGH CURRAGH), Richard Fahey (ATLANTIC BEACH) and David Baron (ELIJAH PEPPER) should do the business between them to keep the prize away from the 'southern softies'.
17.45
The four winners to date have been drawn in stalls 20-15-12-11 whereby my quartet will emerge from middle/high numbers, namely KING OF RHYTHM, WHOZART, TOY TOP and INGLEBY STAR.
18.15
CRIMEA and SIMOLA are two likely looking newcomers from the Johnston and Fahey yards respectively, whilst PISTE sets the standard via the ten experienced runners in the field.
Outsiders to consider for each way interest at Royal Ascot:
14.30: ARABIAN GLEAM
15.05: SPIN CYCLE
15.45: SOUL CITY
16.20: FREMONT
16.55: WOOLFALL TREASURE and LIBERATE
17.30: DI STEFANO and FRATELLINO
Windsor -- Monday 15/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.00: BUCKIE BOY
nb - 19.30: THE GALLOPING SHOE
18.00
AGGRAVATION has finished first, third and fourth in each of the three runnings of this contest to date and with trainer David Elsworth having picked up a big prize at York on Saturday with Swiss Franc, the seven-year-old cannot be ignored. That said, four-year-olds have won all three contests thus far whereby the likes of PLAISTERER and HALLINGDAL must enter calculations.
18.30
A poor race by Windsor (two-year-old) standards whereby Bill Turner's Act One filly CECIL'S GIFT could go well at the first time of asking with a half decent draw (8/14). Anjomarba picked up the big sales race at York on Friday to boost stable confidence and Bill should be congratulated for find a half decent opportunity for his February foal win, lose or draw. Beaten favourite RAGSTA has drawn the plum fourteen position and though I wouldn't be prepared to chase losses relating to the Key Of Luck filly, Richard Hannon's February foal cannot be ignored in such a weak contest. Others to consider overnight include ATOMIC TWISTER and HACHI, alebit the juveniles in question might need some thunder clouds to gather if they are to actually win the race, having been drawn on the far side of the stalls.
19.00
Another beaten favourite from the Richard Hannon stable in a juvenile contest on the card and FOOTSTEPSOFSPRING appears nailed on to win a cheque for connections, though whether it will be of maximum value is open to doubt. Rain might be required for Ralph Beckett's Verglas filly GLASS OF RED to give of her best according to the trainer but the race comes late enough in the day for showers to develop. BELINSKY will build on anything he achieves here as Simon Callaghan was quick to point out via a stable tour that the April foal was more a late season type, though the declaration well before June is out makes for interesting reading.
19.30
THE GALLOPING SHOE was all at sea on heavy ground last time out and though poorly drawn in 4/16 here, Jeremy Noseda's Observatory gelding is not without a decent chance in this grade. That said, the three winners to date have all hailed from towards the bottom of the weights whereby I nominate WHITEOAK LADY (9), DON PELE (13) and WAR AND PEACE (15) as the major threats to the selection.
20.00
It's unusual for Michael Stoute not to be represented in a race like this at Windsor these days, especially a contest he has won three times during the last decade. I'm inclined to believe that Michael has seen or heard something on the heath steering him to bycotting the event, and the likeliest cause iof his absence might concern the likes of BUCKIE BOY, PLYMOUTH ROCK and WATCHOVERME.
20.30
Three of the last five winners have carried weights of 9-7 whereby readers who were considering an investment on MONS CALPE should not necessarily be deterred by his handicap mark. EVERAARD is my each way call in the contest whilst my trio against the field is completed by BUBSES BABE.
21.00
Sixteen moderate handicappers running around the twists, turns and loop at Windsor in the dead of night asks for trouble and I'll wager at least one hard luck story will be revealed in the jockeys changing room following the finale. In the circumstances I can only offer up the tentative quartet of SAMURAI WARRIOR, KRISTALLO, WATSON'S BAY and MOONSHINE CREEK.
Doncaster -- Sunday 14/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.55: LADY SPRINGBANK
nb - 16.05: HONOURS STRIDE
14.20
Swop carried 9-7 to win the only running of this event to date and this year's lone top weight RAPTOR is give a live chance by yours truly, especialy as the six-year-old is trained by Karl Burke who has his horses running at the top of their form. Stable companion MOODY TUNES cannot be left out of the equation in the circumstances whilst MARVO completes my trio against the field.
14.55
All three favourites have won this juvenile contest to date. John Gosden still awaits his first two-year-old winner of the season at the time of writing whereby BRISBANE might represent poor value for money, even though the Kheleyf colt should finish in the money. The Choisir filly LADY SPRINGBANK should appreciate the ease in the ground whereby Jim Crowley's mount is likely to improve on her third placed debut effort at Newcastle. Richard Fahey's April foal LADY LEFROY faces a tough task on her debut but Paul Hangan's mount represents a stable at the top of its form.
15.30
Horses drawn middle/high dominated last year's inaugural running whilst four year-olds occupied the forecast positions. The stats and facts (albeit via just one renewal) suggest that the likes of ETON RIFLES, SPIRIT OF SHARJAH, PISCEAN and SAMMY THE SNAKE will figure prominently.
16.05
The Red Ransom filly HONOURS STRIDE remains nicely unexposed although that has not stopped the handicapper from attempting to stop Michael Stoute's late May foal in her tracks. It's impossible to leave Ryan Moore's mount out of the toteplacepot mix though on these terms, potential party-poopers CHICORA and HUKBA lurk further down the weights.
16.35
Although three-year-olds generally hold the call in these races for mixed vintages at this time of year, a four-year-old snared the bronze middle in the first running of this event twelve months ago and Alan Swinbank's dual bumper winner BORN TO PERFORM could also reach the frame. That said, three-year-olds filled the forecast positions last year and the likes of RACING HERO and John Gosden's pair TWISTED and DECORUM will all represent the junior vintage to good effect.
17.10
The Irish dual purpose raider MUNCHING MIKE is an interesting declaration at the foot of the list, though more logical winners in the line up include ISABELONABICYCLE and ROSE BIEN.
York -- Saturday 13/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.10: FAVOURITE GIRL
nb - 16.55: CANYON RANCH
14.05
Regular readers will know that I pay more attention to the riders than the horses in these amateur events, whereby my quartet against the field consists of HILLVIEW BOY, WAR PARTY, GIFTED LEADER and CHESHIRE PRINCE.
14.35
Five-year-olds have won four of the last nine contests whilst the last three winners all carried weights of 9-2 or more. Putting the stats and facts together produces a 'short list' of DUBAI'S TOUCH, CHECKLOW, ACROSTIC and OPUS MAXIMUS. Seven of the last nine winners have been returned at odds of 10/1 or less which has to be classed as a positive stat given the competitive nature of the contest.
15.10
Yet another impossible 'jigsaw puzzle' of a race to solve and one thing I can guarantee at York is a decent toteplacepot dividend. The weight trends suggest that the bottom four horses in the handicap will struggle to become involved in the finish whereby we have just sixteen runners to assess! Tim Easterby has won two of the last six renewals and FAVOURITE GIRL might be my each way call in the contest. The Refuse To Bend filly is joined on the short list by PROCLAIM, MASTER OF DISGUISE and SWISS DIVA.
15.45
Just eleven runners to peruse but no less difficult than the first three races on the card in some respects. MARCHING TIME was a major disappointment at Epsom on Derby Day and bookmakers can expect plenty of support for Michael Stoute's beaten favourite though once again, the Sadler's Wells colt might represent poor value for money. Rain earlier in the week will have boosted his chances however and Ryan Moore's mount should at least finish in the frame on this occasion. TEPMOKEA is the only horse in the line up set to carry less weight than the projected favourite and I give Karl Burke's Noverre colt an each way chance whilst my trio against the field is completed by the progressive Godolphin raider SOVEREIGN REMEDY.
16.20
Jeremy Noseda's Indian Ridge colt SUMMERINTHECITY is well entered up for big races in the autumn and some cut in the ground at the time of writing would not have escaped the eye of the trainer. Rain will also have aided the potential chance of TARTAN TRIP for the Andrew Balding yard who know how to ready their juveniles at the first time of asking. WILLIAM MORGAN is another interesting debutant whilst CAPACITY arguably sets the standard via the four runners in the field with racing experience.
16.55
Three winning favourites in the last eight years have been recorded during which time the biggest priced winner was returned at odds of 8/1. AIM TO ACHIEVE was sent off favourite on her debut at Newmarket last back end but the filly's run should be ignore as she was reported to be lame. The Galileo filly might be worth another chance, though this is a potentially hot contest with the likes of CANYON RANCH and SEAWAY also having been declared. A race to tape as the contest looks sure to produce plenty of future winners.
17.25
Five of the last eight winners have carried weights of 9-5 or more whereby I will tentatively nominate CASTLES IN THE AIR, DANCING MAITE, BONNIE PRINCE BLUE and GEEZERS COLOURS against the other eleven runners from the 'superior' sector of the handicap. York should not have the right to charge admission money on such a competitive card!
York -- Friday 12/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.20: CHERRY BEE
e/w- 16.00: MIAMI GATOR
14.20
The Acclamation filly CHERRY BEE only found the progressive Di Stefano too good for her on her debut and any normal amount of improvement would take the January foal very close to winning this interesting opening event. PARBOLD HILL figured prominently for a long way in Beverley's 'Hilary Needler' event which was a fine effort suggesting that Richard Fahey's January foal ELUSIVE SUE would do well to win this event at the first time of asking.
14.50
Horses carrying weights of 9-2 or more have won both renewals to date, whilst relevant beasts have secured five of the eight available toteplacepot positions for good measure. My quartet form the 'superior' sector of the weights consists of ARCTIC CAPE, HANDSOME FALCON, ADMIRAL DUNDAS and INDIAN SKIPPER.
15.25
Four-year-olds swept the board in the inaugural running of this event twelve months ago and vintage representatives that should run well here include beaten favourite HAWK MOUNTAIN and CAERLAVEROCK. The Lady Herries raider CLEAVER makes some appeal however, especially with a five-pound claimer in the saddle. The eight-year-old would be running off a mark of just one pound above the best effort to date by the Kris representative (if the rider can claim the full allowance) which must bode well for his chances, from an each way perspesctive at the very least.
16.00
Favourites have won three of the last six renewals of this juvenile event during which time the biggest priced winner was returned at 6/1. The last thirty four runners (at the time of writing) sent out by Karl Burke have produced six winners and a total of twenty seven runners which finished in the first four. This is a truly phenomional performance by the trainer who deserves to land this prize with MIAMI GATOR who won an egg and spoon Redcar event earlier in the week in the style of a progressive juvenile. FINAL OVATION and ORPEN ARMS might offer most resistance close home.
16.35
The last four winners have scored at 33/1-20/1-14/1-14/1 which should quell any thoughts you might have in wading in with 'mortgage money' in the contest. Three of the last four winners have emerged from stall numbers of ten or higher which helps me form a 'short list' of SOLAR SPIRIT, SLOOP JOHNB and STEELCUT. EQUULEAUS PICTOR just edges out Lochstar from the other side of the track.
17.10
The forecast position was claimed by horses carrying weights of 8-11 or less in the inaugural running of this event twelve months ago. JOE JO STAR, GREY COMMAND and GRANDAD BILL are three of the five 'qualifiers' on this occasion and the trio should represent yours truly to good each way effect.
Haydock -- Thursday 11/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 19.50: SPEEDY SENORITA
nb - 21.20: TRICKY SITUATION
18.50
Mark Johnston (KOCHANSKI) and Mick Channon (GOLD MAHA) are very much the trainers in form at the time of writing, boasting aggregate stats of 25/147 during the last fortnight, a ratio which compares favourably to the combined figures of 4/56 via the other represented handlers. Both horses are decidedly moderate by any standards, but particularly so given the average types to found in the yards of Mark and Mick, though this is a poor race with which to open proceedings and I would not be at all surprised to see at least one of the pair figuring prominently at potentially rewarding odds.
19.20
AATTASH was expected to run well in Goodwood Maestro’s race at the Sussex venue but a tardy start soon put paid to his chances. The Clodovil colt must be given another chance in this grade however, and Mick Channon’s April foal was doing some decent work at the back end of the contest. HOUSE RED was very much the ‘second string’ when finishing behind winning stable companion Be Invincible at Windsor and you can expect definite improve from the Barry Hills raider. Godolphin's More Than Ready colt CHAPERNO will need to run a lot better than fellow newcomer Sand Vixen managed at this venue on Thursday afternoon to become involved in the finish but Saeed Bin Suroor knows what is needed to secure such contests.
19.50
Four-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick but only SPEEDY SENORITA represents the victory on this occasion despite twelve runners having been declared. BAHAMIAN BALLET is included from an each way perspective but it has been the thick end of two years since Ed McMahon's seven-year-old has won. Others to peruse overnight include GLASSHOUHTON and MANDURAH if David Nicholls turns out his top weight for the second time this week.
20.20
Bryan Smart will be hoping that the forecast heavy showers hit Haydock overnight (and in the run up to the race) as DORIC ECHO won on his debut on heavy ground last year. SUNSHINE ALWAYS tackles turf for the first time but would be a definite player if adapting to conditions. DEADLY ENCOUNTER completes my trio against the field.
20.50
The two course andistance winners BRASINGAMAN HIFIVE and MAJOR MAGPIE should attract each way (thieving) support in this potential 'dead eight' event though John Quinn's four-year-old raider NISAAL could be yet another winner for Jamie Kyne who is riding with unbelievable confidence for a seven pound claimer at the time of writing.
21.20
James Given has won with four of his last eleven runners as I write and TRICKY SITUATION could add to the recent tally in a 'short field' finale. SANCTUARY is nominated as the chief threat despite a newcomer (Gulf Of Aqaba) from Mark Johnston's powerful yard having been declared.
Brighton -- Wednesday 10/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.50: BRETT VALE
e/w- 16.50: NORDIC LIGHT
14.20
The last two winners have carried weights of 9-5 or more whereby both of this year's two 'qualifiers MOUNTAIN CAT and HART OF GOLD are included in my overnight mix. Course and distance winner ANNES ROCKET is improving at a rate of knots and no mistake and with a seven pound claimer in the saddle to offset the recent penalty, the four-year-old cannot be left out of the equation. Two of the three favourites have secured toteplacepot positions to date (one winner).
14.50
The three (9/2) co favourites swept the board in the inaugural running of this contest last year, carrying weights of 9-3 or more in the process. The one-time stat suggests that Jonnie Skull is out on a limb and my tentative trio against the field consists of MICK IS BACK, course and distance winner MOUNTAIN PASS and beaten favourite STEIG.
15.30
The Beckett team have their runners well to the fore at the time of writing and PLAYFUL ASSET could be another of their inmates to reward connenctions with prize money of some decription. MADDY doesn't know how to run a bad race these days though the Daggers Drawn filly has gone fourteen races since last tasting victory. Others to consider in a reasonable event via its 'selling' status include the recent course and distance winner THEOCRITUS and MINISTEROFINTERIOR, who is also a C/D winner for good measure at this switchback track. This is a new race on the Brighton card.
15.50
Another new race on the card to assess though with Mick Channon having saddled nine winners within the last fortnight at the time of writing, ORSIPPUS just about picks himself for overnight consideration on behalf of the stable. BRETT VALE was well entered up this week following his recent victory and knowing Sir Mark Prescott, there is every possibility of the Sinndar gelding taking up his option at Yarmouth on Thurdsay if the three-year-old shows himself to be in good heart following this assignment. Mark certainly has some catching up to do this term having just about shut his yard down for a while during the latter end of the month of May. BEAUBRAV completes my trio against the field.
16.20
A 'short field' (defined as a race for 5-6-7 runners) makes this contest a difficult race to assess and each way thieves will be cursing the fact that one more trainer could have made this into an interesting 'bet to nothing--each way' event. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that HAND PAINTED could defy the handicapper on this occasion, connections possibly having most to fear from LA GIFTED.
16.50
Five-year-olds had come to last year's party having won all three renewals and though the market leader twelve months ago could only secure the silver medal, it defies belief that just one vintage representative has been declared yet again. NORDIC LIGHT is the horse in question and even though Jim Crowley's mount props up the handicap, Milton Bradley's raider demands to be included in the overnight mix. Stable companion ONE WAY TICKET and JOSS STICK might be the potential party-poopers on this occasion. Two of the four favourites have secured toteplacepot positions in the finale, and though all four market leaders have been beaten to date, the biggest priced winner was returned at just 15/2, which is not a bad scenario given the handicap status of the contest.
Salisbury -- Tuesday 09/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 15.55: SAMPI
e/w- 16.30: PANSY POTTER
13.40
It's difficult to know whether FOLLETTA was showing signs of being something of a madam or just inexperience at Goodwood at the first time of asking, swishing her tail when showing a fair amount of ability. This race should offer up the answer. IMPERIAL WARRIOR definitely showed that a fair amount of talent was lurking under the saddle and with Hughie Morrison's juveniles invariably showing a degree of imrpovement folllowing a run, the Imperial Dancer colt should make the frame at the very least. CHAIRMAN PAT is an extremely late (May 18) foal whereby the Proud Citizen colt would do really well to figure at the business end of the contest, though Tom Dascombe has been touting 'Pat' up in no uncertain terms in recent weeks via stable tours. MANY A SLIP is the other newcomer to consider given John Dunlop's great start to the two-year-old season.
14.15
This might prove to be the weaker of the two divisions which open up proceedings at Salisbury on Tuesday. Richard Hannon's Verglas colt NEWTON CIRCUS would not have to be among the leading juvenile lights in the stable to figure prominently in this event I'll wager, whilst others to consider include DUDLEY and ATOMIC TWISTER. Another Verglas representative CRYSTAL GALE sets the (moderate) standard via the six experienced runners though trainer Bill Knight is not well known for churning out winning two-year-olds on a regular basis, returning a ten per cent strike rate via thirteen winners in the last five years.
14.45
Three of the last four winners have carried weights of 9-8 or more whereby JAKE THE SNAKE and beaten favourite MANCHESTERMAVERICK should both run well. ELNA BRIGHT heads the list however and the David Evans trained Elnadim gelding has plenty in hand on this field according to official ratings. Rebels who want to take on the stats might be looking towards the likes of Castano and Yellow Printer.
15.20
Mick Channon was talking a good game about his Imperial Dancer colt IMPERIAL HOUSE fifteen months ago, though why we have not seen the February foal on a racecourse until now is not known to yours truly. Mick has seemingly found a decent opportunity for Tony Culhane's mount to at least reach the frame at the first time of asking. CASTING COUCH and SHANGANI stand in the way of a winning debut from my viewpoint.
15.55
Three-year-olds have won all four renewals to date though the worrying aspect relating to this year's seven vintage representatives is that only Amanda Perrett's Beat Hollow filly SAMPI fits the weight trends in the contest. That said, John Gosden's Medicean filly AROMATIC is a course and distance winner which sits just sixteen ounces under the barrier, whilst beaten favourite CASCATA represents the in form stable of Luca Cumani which can do very little wrong at present.
16.30
Five of the last six winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more which eliminates the bottom four horses in this three-year-old handicap if you takes the stats seriously. The fact that three of those four horses are trained by top handlers might allow some value to be found elsewhere and my quartet against the field consists of PANSY POTTER, FLY BY NELLY, CAVENDISH ROAD and MY BEST MAN.
17.00
All was going well for four-year-olds (the vintage had won the first four contests) until an 'elder statesman' upset the applecard last year though a 6/1 chance still salvaged pride by snaring the silver medal on the day. I'm hoping the race will revert to type this time around by nominating WARRIOR CONQUEST, PADDY RIELLY and CLASSICAL RHYTHM against the other five contenders.
17.30
All six available each way positions have been claimed by horses carrying weights of 9-3 or less to date which brings fifteen-time winner CAUSTIC WIT into the eqaution, especially as thirteen of those successes have been gained over this six furlong trip. BLESSED PLACE is another old-timer that can still defy his years, whilst those who want to take on the trends might side with MILNE BAY.
Pontefract -- Monday 08/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 18.50: SHIBHAN
nb - 19.50: THIN RED LINE
18.50
Clive Brittain does not send many juveniles to Pontefract (just eight in the last five years) whereby the declaration of his Compton Place filly SHIBHAN makes for interesting reading. The March foal was only beaten three lengths on her debut and though the quality of juvenile races at Yarmouth can be questionable, Martin Dwyer's mount must boast win and place claims here. I'll pass over the chance of Angelina Ballerina, citing that MIDNIGHT MARTINI and WOOD FAIR are less exposed and offer better value for money this time around. DANCING POPPY represents Mick Channon's powerful yard though jungle drums have been conspicous by their absence relating to the Kyllachy filly.
19.20
The bottom three horses in the handicap look set to struggle if the weight trends are to be believed (six of the last eight winners have carried 8-13 or more), whereby my trio against the field consists of MR CRYSTAL, INDONESIA and KIRIBATI KING. The latter named Mick Channon raider represents the four year-old vintage which has secured three of the last five renewals.
19.50
Six of the last seven winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more to victory and the trend might contunie via the likes of THIN RED LINE, SKY GATE and STANCILL in this 'short field' event. Ed Dunlop has won this race twice during the last decade and the treble is on the cards with the Red Ransom colt THIN RED LINE.
20.20
Saturday's Epsom winner EVA'S REQUEST would take the world of beating if turning up for this gig whilst the Soviet Star filly is one of the seven four-year-olds in the potential nine strong line up wich is attempting to become the fourth vintage winner in the last five years. Mick has a reserve option in place via his Spartacus filly RIO GURU though the April foal is rated thirty five pounds inferior to EVA'S REQUEST and recevies just five pounds from her stable companion on this occasion. ROSALEEN is the threat to the Channon pair on all known form. Trumpet Lily would be added to the mix in the event of Eva's Request not making the journey.
20.50
Five of the last six winners have carried weights of 9-6 or more whilst five four-year-olds have secured the gold medal within the last decade. Putting the stats and facts together offers yours truly a short list of SAM'S CROSS, FLYING APPLAUSE, MARK OF MEYDAN and AZURE MIST, offering up Swinbrook as the overnight reserve.
21.20
Four-year-olds won the first two (of three) renewals to date, whilst just two outsiders represented the vintage last year, one of which claimed the bronze gong at 10/1. Three of the four vintage representatives this time around i=fit the weight trend which suggests that horses carrying 8-13 or more are favoured. The trio in question are ARTSU, CALMDOWNMATE and BRAILLE. Sixteen runners have been declared whereby I'm allowed a fourth 'short list' contender which on this occasion is BABYSHAMBLES, though the name basically sums up my fatherly technique.
Southwell -- Sunday 07/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.40: FOL LIAM
nb - 16.10: KINGSMAITE
14.10
Although Tom Dascombe's Reset filly CHINA BAY looked fairly ordinary on her debut effort at Wolverhampton, the trainer should be congratulated for finding a winning opportunity for his February foal. DIAMOND AFFAIR and the other Reset filly in the field REGARDLESS might offer most resisitance in a disappointing opening event.
14.40
The top weight prevailed in the inaugural running of this event twelve months ago and a repeat scenario might be on the cards here via Brendan Powell's Auction House gelding LUCKY PUNT. The yard comes into the race in good form as opposed to Kevin Ryan's stable whose course winner SHIFTING GOLD would have been given a decent chance had Kevin's runners been giving of their best. SWING IT RUBY (Celtic Swing filly) should be suited to this slow surface whereby De Sousa's mount is offered up as the each way call in the contest.
15.10
I rarely (if ever) get AUREATE right as he wins when I suggest others will have his measure whilst the reverse scenario comes into effect when I fancy Brian Ellsion's five-year-old. I guess we all have horses (Blythe Knight is another of mine) that we misjudge on a regular basis. The course and distance winner should make the frame at the very least here however, suggesting that WIND FLOW and EDAS might offer the most resistance close home.
15.40
FOL LIAM represents the in form stable of Ian Williams and the three-year-old appears quite well treated by the terms and conditions of this event. Blinkered for the first time here, the Observatory gelding should be able to handle slow conditions and the April foal probably has as much chance of winning a race on the card as anything else. The biggest threats might emerge from SWISS ART and ASAKUSA.
16.10
The Bowring yard boasted a recent sixty per cent strike rate at the time of writing whereby their course and distance winner KINGSMAITE must hold a decent chance of completing a five-day double. The other pair of 'old timers' in the field might emerge as the potential party-poopers in the line up, namely BLAKESHALL QUEST and OUTER HEBRIDES.
16.40
Horses filled the frame from stalls 12-8-14 in a fourteen runner field twelve months ago and those drawn accordingly with a chance this time around include SULARNO (10/14), REVE VERT (12) and HAROLDINI (8).
Lingfield -- Saturday 06/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.20: BALATA
nb - 18.50: RAPID LIGHT
17.50
Both ends of the market have been represented to winning effect to date, as the two winners thus far were returned at 66/1 and 10/11. Gay Kelleway does well in this type of event albeit that eight-year-old RAWDON has his own ideas about the sport yet retains my interest from an each way perspective. TERMINATE represents the in form yard of Ian Williams whilst my trio against the field is completed by CACTUS KING.
18.20
Five of the six available toteplacepot positions have been secured by horses carrying wieghts of 9-1 or more to date (including both winners) whereby the top three horses in the handicap appeal as much (if not more) than anything else in the race, namely GOOD BUY DUBAI, CALLING VICTORY and CAUGHT ON CAMERA. Sier Mark Prescott all but shut his yard down recently but BRETT VALE would be another runner to consider if Sir Mark's troubles are behind him now.
18.50
Last year's inaugural winner of this event (Navajo Joe) has failed to build on the success but I have a feeling that the gold medallist from this event could go on to secure a decent future, such is the half decent line up on this occasion. RAPID LIGHT, MARED and COUNTENANCE might be the trio to home in on, with EBIAYN nominated as the overnight reserve.
19.20
Four of the seven winners to date were making their respective debut appearances and with just two experienced (moderate looking) horses in the line up, the ratio looks certain to be improved upon. GUNDAROO, FIRST TERM and CHACHAMAIDEE are marginally preferred to PASTEL BLUE at the time of writing. The last three market leaders have all been sunk without trace following the success of the initial four favourites in the contest.
19.50
Four-year-olds lead the five-year-olds 4-3 via just the seven renewals to date whereby I am ignoring the four runners which hail from other vintages this time around. I'm left with FEELIN FOXY, LITTLEMISSSUNSHINE and AFFIRMATIVELY to act on my behalf.
20.20
Rod Millman has his Devon based team in fine fettle and BALATA could be another winner for the yard in the finale. Jamie Spencer is an interesting booking aboard Gay Kelleway's five-year-old raider STAR STRIDER, whilst MILLFIELD DREAMS continues to run well depite having received pensionable status at the turn of the year.
Thoughts on The Derby:
Aidan O'Brien has saddled two winners and four placed horses during the last decade and with two placed horses returned at 25/1 and 20/1, very few of his runners should be ignored. My own preference from an each way angle has to be BLACK BEAR ISLAND who won the 'Dante' in the style of a good horse who would appreciate the additional quarter of a mile. Speed figures suggest that BLACK BEAR ISLAND put up a faster display than subsequent Derby winners North Light, Motivator and Authorised. The ‘talking horse’ of the six Ballydoyle runners is FAME AND GLORY and whilst I wouldn't put anyone off the current market leader, Black Bear Island has majestic win and place claims in my book, especially as the ‘Dante’ is very much the trial having produced three of the last five winners of the ‘Blue Riband’, whilst Taran Bearer finished second twelve months ago.
Goodwood -- Friday 05/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.20: CRIME SCENE
nap- 19.50: BEAU FIGHTER
18.15
An amatuer riders event for starters which makes 'The Apprentice' (pardon the play on words) attractive veiwing by comparison but something has to win, and my short list comprises of LUSH, BAVARICA and ADDWAITYA. Whilst I'm on the subject, why are we still promoting television programmes which are based on rude and assertive behaviour which inevitably leads to greed?
18.45
RAINSBOROUGH (Mick Channon) is preferred to SUBAII SANDS (Richard Hannon) via the jungle drums though it remains perfectly possible that Richard Hannon will prove the 'experts' wrong yet again, especially as Hannon has won two of the last six contests. ARABIAN PRIDE sets the standard albeit only two horses with racecourse experience are scheduled to face the starter on this occasion. Seven renewals have passed by without a winning favourite being recorded though to complete the picture, I should point out that the biggest priced winner during the period was returned at just 9/1.
19.20
The official figures suggest that MAD RUSH and CRIME SCENE have several lengths to spare over their rivals but then again, it wouldn't be the first time that 'Frankie' has chosen the wrong Godolphin raider (CRIME SCENE); hence SAGARA cannot be written off at the time of writing.
19.50
Both winners have carried weights of 9-5 or more whereby BEAU FIGHTER definitely figures in my plans whilst I respect the chance of SUPERCAST from the same sector of the handicap. This dead eight event will witness 'thieves' thumbing through the form book searching for the ultimate (bet to nothing) each way play in the contest. SUPERCAST definitely fits the bill given the 6/1 quote in the trade press, though POTENTIALE also qualifies having finished 'in the three' fifteen times via twenty five starts.
20.25
Three-year-olds tend to get the better of these contests against their older rivals, as has been the case via two renewals of this contest to date. VISITE ROYALE, SILENT OASIS and TENTEARS might best represent the vintage on this occasion.
20.55
Five-year-olds are on a hat trick following two contests thus far, whereby BATELEUR might be able to follow up a victory just three days ago. HART OF GOLD and STEP IT UP are other vintage representatives to consider.
Thoughts on the Oaks at Epsom:
I'm mindful that Phillipina has attracted a great deal of each way support at fancy prices during the last fortnight and good luck to you if you were one of the speculative win and place investors. Sir Michael Stoute's representative makes little appeal at today's odds however, and I fully expect MIDDAY and SARISKA to fight out the finish, with PHILLIPINA possibly snaring the bronze medal to reward each way stakes.
Hamilton -- Thursday 04/06/2009
Best bets:
e/w- 14.10: UNSHAKABLE WILL
nb - 16.10: NEW TRICKS
14.10
It's difficult to look beyond the top pair in the list from my viewpoint with ROCK OF LOVE probably justifying favouritism, alongside Bryan's Smart's Refuse To Bend debutant UNSHAKABLE WILL, the unknown factor in the contest. Many punters will latch on to Whispered Times and Durham Reflection after decent debut efforts but I expect the winner to emerge from the top pair in the list of runners.
14.40
David Nichiolls tends to clean up these claiming events, especially when the money is down. Whether any of the stable staff will want to get involved with a potential odds on shot in unknown, though LEGAL EAGLE should snare this prize en route to better things in the weeks and months to come this season. Fellow four-year-old SECRET DUBAI might reward forecast punters, especially as four-year-olds boast the best stats in the contest.
15.10
Four-year-olds have claimed five of the last nine renewals and with six of those winners having carried weights of 9-2 or more, my short list consists of HANDSINTHEMIST, ANDRASTA and ROCKETBALL.
15.40
MOUNTAIN CAT potentially makes a quick reappearance following his half decent runner up effort at Carlisle the other day. Course and distance winner PIANOFORTE might offer most resistance despite the seasonal debut scenario whilst THIS ONES FOR EDDY completes my trio against the field.
16.10
A poor handicap event in all honesty, though with the three winners of this event having carried weights of 9-0 or more to date, I'll nominate NEW TRICKS, BLACKSTONE VEGAS and ANNES SOUND against the other six contenders. The trio are listed in order of preference.
16.40
A lot of dead wood assembled here though I'm mindful that the inaugural winner last year scored at 18/1. ATLANTIC BEACH, TANGERINE TREES and MAISON DIEU should ensure that bookmakers do not have things all their own way this time around.
17.10
The last nine winners have ranged between four and six years of age which eliminates three of the eight runners if you take the stats seriously, whereby DRAMATIC SOLO, FORREST FLYER and BAIZICALLY appear to hold leading chances.
Ripon -- Wednesday 03/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.40: BOBBIE SOXER
nb - 20.40: MERDAAM
18.40
Five-year-olds have won three of the five contests with four-year-oldS
picking up the other two prizes. With only four and five-year-old declarations
having been made the trend is sure to continue, the pick of the runners on this
occasion possibly being AL AZY, FOLLOW THE SUN and ART VALUE. One of the five
favourites has obliged to date, the top priced winner having been returned at 14/1.
Just two of the market leaders have finished in the frame.
19.10
This race says much about the fact that Kevin Ryan's juveniles have disappointed in the main to date this season, as the trainer would have been coming here on a hat trick but is not represented this time around. In the circumstances I can only offer a speculative and tentive trio against the field which consists of RJEEF, MERSEYSIDE STAR and GENTLE BEAT. Favourites have secured three gold and two silver medals via the last six renewals, whilst over the full seven contest period, five market leaders have claimed toteplacepot positions.
19.40
BOBBIE SOXER won in the style of a progressive horse last week and though
some of the success can be attributed to the form of the John Dunlop yard, there
was plenty to like about the way that the Pivotal filly went about her work.
WHITE SHIFT has also been moving through the ranks of late whilst PADDY BEAR
might be worth another chance in this grade. Three of the last six favourites have
finished 'in the three' though we have to go back as far as 2002 to find the last
market leader to oblige, albeit Pinchbeck was landing a hat trick of victories for
favourites.
20.10
Four of the last six winners (including the last three) have carried weights of
9-0 or less whereby the six-year-olds WOVOKA and COLLATERAL DAMAGE enter the
overnight mix. Luca Cumani's team is just coming to the boil at the right time and his (joint) top weight ACROSTIC cannot be overlooked despite the afore-mentioned stats.
20.40
Three-year-olds have won nine of the last ten renewals and with the strong
southern yards of Sir Michael Stoute (DUBAI ECHO) and John Dunlop (MERDAAM)
represented, the prize looks set to head towards the same half of the country for
the eleventh consecutive year. The Montjeu filly Interdiamonds would do well to
win on her debut on behalf of the north, though Mark Johnston would not have
pitched the April foal into this type of battle without good reason. The biggest
priced winner during the last decade was a 5/1 chance whilst market leaders have
snared six gold medals in the process.
21.10
The last three winners have carried weights of 8-10 or less and I guess that
JACKDAY has the best chance of securing a prize via the three 'qualifiers' on this
occasion. Tim Easterby's yard has slowly been going the right way of late and the
four-year-old might be the each way call in the potential 'dead eight' finale. More
logical winners appear to be INCHPAST and HERRERA however.
Folkestone -- Tuesday 02/06/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.50: MONAADEEMA
nb - 18.20: BOLD TIE
18.20
With the top five horses in the handicap separeated by just one pound, this opening contest is a tough event to call. BOLD TIE was the horse which improved the most towards the back end of their respective juvenile seasons however, whereby Richard Hannon could post another score on the three-year-old board. AMOSITE and course and distance winner SHADOW BAY have already proved that they have 'trained on' however, which is always worth taking into account when perusing these 3YO handicaps.
18.50
Richard Hannon has won two of the three juvenile events at Folkestone to date (the same stats offered by favourites at the Kent venue thus far), whereby his Beat Hollow filly AEGEAN DESTINY demands to be included in the overnight mix. That said, EXOTIC BEAUTY sets the standard via the eight two-year-olds to have already gained experience, whilst EXCEED POWER and MUDAARAAH are very interesting newcomers to add icing on the cake.
19.20
The first three horses home in last year's inaugural running of this contest (won by the favourite) carried weights of 8-10 or more and just two horses qualify via the stat this time around, namely FOREST DANE and MUSIC BOX EXPRESS who are preferred in the order as listed. Mick Channon (seven winners during the last fortnight) is very much the in form represented trainer whereby BATELEUR is offered up as the third horse against the field.
19.50
MONAADEMA has been off the track since recording a fast ground success at Warwick twelve months ago, and whilst I'm unsure (at the time of writing) why the Elnadim filly has been absent, the late April foal is fancied to run well here hoping that the 'trained on' scenario does not become an important factor. Beaten favourite HOBSON might prove to be a tough nut to crack in recepit of six pounds from the selection.
20.20
Four-year-olds have claimed two gold and two silver medals in this race to date and vintage representatives GAIA PRINCE and HADA MEN make some appeal in another 'short field' event on the card. King Supreme is nominated as the overnight reserve.
20.50
Six joint top weights is a rarity in the three-year-old handicap events, though it's worth noting what happened to the four top weights in the inaugural running of this race twelve months ago. Horses carrying 9-7 finished 1-2-4-13 in a thirteen runner event, whereby DICE, MEFRAAS and MONS CALPE (carries sixteen ounces less than the other pair) are nominated against the field.
Thirsk -- Monday 01/06/2009
Best bets:
nb - 18.40: FOLLOW THE FLAG
e/w- 19.40: STAN'S COOL CAT
18.10
Mick Channon has been banging in the juvenile winners again over the weekend, whereby ALPHACINO might get the better of last week's (Yarmouth) seller winner ANJOMARBA close home. That said, Richard Fahey's Dubai Destination filly INLOVINGMEMORY could be anything and any support in the market should be heeded.
18.40
FOLLOW THE FLAG gets in strongly from a weights perspective given that the two winners to date have carried 9-7 and 9-5. BORDER OWL is the other 'qualifier' according to the stats. Beaten favourite KILDARE SUN might be worth another chance in this grade whereby Paul Hanagan's mount is given the reserve nomination.
19.10
Three-year-olds have won five of the seven renewals thus far and SPLENDOURINTHEGRASS surely has this race at his mercy. The Selkirk colt is not one to back at the trade press price of 2/5 however, given that his sire much preferred some cut in the ground and has passed on the bias to the majority of his prodigy. DOC JONES is the obvious danger.
19.40
STAN'S COOL CAT has to be the each way call given that all three winners to date (top price of 4/1--one winning favourite) have carried weights of 9-6 or more. SNOW BAY and SECRET SOCITY are feared most.
20.10
The two favourites to date have snared gold and silver medals with the beaten market leader going down by a short head. With just five runners facing the starter, the trend of fancied horses running well looks set to continue and my pair against the field consists of AKMAL and TOPOLSKI.
20.40
Four-year-olds have won four of the six renewals to date and the ratio might be improved upon by the likes of LOOSE CABOOSE and REVUE PRINCESS, despite the fact that the latter named runner carries the burden of ten stones. LA ZAMORA is the potential party-pooper in the line up.
Stratford -- Sunday 31/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.00: MISS PHOEBE
nb- 14.30: FONT
14.30
An extremely early start in the juvenile novice hurdle campaign with eight and a half months before trainers settle on their representatives for the Triumph Hurdle in 2010! Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that RUPESTRIAN, SGT ROBERTS and KEY REGARD might run better than most, though such 'selections' are offered up in tentative mode. NICEONEFRANKIE is nominated as the overnight reserve.
15.00
David Evans has been in fine form on the flat and with the eye catching booking of Tony McCoy in place, MISS PHEOBE demands to be included in the mix, possibly alongside OVERSPIN and SILVER BANK. All five of the market leaders have secured toteplacepot positions via four renewals to date (two winners).
15.30
Eight-year-olds have won five of the last nine renewals and with three half decent vintage representatives in a nine strong line up, the ratio could be improved upon. In order of preference, the trio in question is PEPPERONI PETE, NORBORNE BANDIT and HIGH OSCAR. The last ten winners have all been returned at odds of 10/1 or less which includes two winning favourites. It's worth noting from a toeplacepot perspective however, that just one of the last five market leaders have finished in the frame.
16.00
Seven-year-olds come to the gig on a hat trick whereby ST MELLION FREEWAY is on my overnight short list, though twenty seven furlongs in the projected heat makes this is 'minimum stake' contest. The other seven-year-olds might push Tim Vaughan's representative all the way, namely IONA STAR, DIZZY FUTURE and AMBROSSINNI. We await the first winning favourite following four renewals to date, whilst just one of the five market leaders has finished in the frame.
16.30
It's difficult to look beyond the three recent winners, namely FONT, DONALDSON and RIEN A PERDRE who are listed in order of preference. For those of you looking for the ultimate each way 'steal' in this dead eight event, BOLD POLICY might best fit the bill. All three favourites have secured toteplacepot positions to date (two winners).
17.00
The eleven pounds concession by Kaladan to DORT TRANQUILLE is likely to prove too daunting, whilst others in receipt of weight from the penalised winner to hold chances are I'VE BEEN FRAMED and NETHER STREAM. This NH flat race is a new race on the Stratford card.
17.30
The Scuadmore team is going well at the time of writing (three of their last seven runners had won at the time of writing) whereby THE CUTE CURATE might run well at rewarding odds, even though are TOLLISHILL and (particularly) REAPING THE REWARD are more logical winners. This is the second division of the previous race on the Stratford programme.
Newbury -- Saturday 30/05/2009
Best bets:
nb - 19.50: TRADING NATION
e/w- 20.55: PANSY POTTER
18.10
The thinking behind nominating Newbury as Saturday's meeting revolves around the Cup Final, though I readily admit we could have done without a Lady Riders event for starters! Regular readers will know that I home in on pilots every bit as much as the equine 'stars' in these events, whereby my trio against the field (why aren't there sixteen runners!) is ROCK ANTHEM, NEW ENGLAND and VENIR ROUGE. CHATANOOGACHOOCHOO is nominated as the overnight reserve.
18.45
Clive Brittain cannot do a lot wrong at present whereby his Exceed And Excel newcomer WASMI could run well at potentially rewarding odds, whilst MAGIC LANTERN, JUST THE TONIC and SILVER SYMPHONY are others to consider is what appears to be a difficult contest to call. Favourites have been conspicuous by their absence in the winners circle via five renewals to date, the last two contests having been won by horses starting at 25/1 and 22/1. Three of the five market leaders have finished in the frame to balance things out a little.
19.20
Both winners have carried weights of 9-3 or more as have four of the six horses to have secured toteplacepot positions to date with ROMANY PRINCESS being the choice of this year's two 'qualifiers'. Two beaten favourites come to the fore in this event, namely SUPERVERDI and EFFIGY and both runners can go close to finding compensation for their respective connections. Last year's winning favourite atoned for losses of favourite backers in the inaugural running back in 2007 when the market leader finished fourth in a fifteen runner event.
19.50
TRADING NATION ran well when second on fast ground at Nottingham recently and with similar going in the offing here, Roger Charlton's Tiznow colt holds obvious claims. EYES LIKE A HAWK is an interesting beaten favourite to consider, whilst others for the overnight mix include the King Charlemagne newcomer TARQUA and (to a lesser extent) TENDER CHARM. Eight of the nine winners to date were returned at odds of 6/1 or less which included four winning favourites. A 50/1 winner back in 2003 balanced the books a little for the layers.
20.25
The four winners have carried weights of 9-2 or more whereby MISTA ROSSA, AGENTE ROMANO and DRUM MAJOR make some appeal, though 'mortgage money' will be well and truly hidden away for this moderate contest. All four winners were returned at odds of 8/1 or less whilst two of the four market leaders have claimed toteplacepot positions (one winner).
20.55
Four-year-olds have won three of the last four renwals whilst the same number of gold medallists carried weights of 9-8 or more. Only Pat Eddery's Fasliyev filly KORALEVA TECTONA fits both trends whereby Paul Eddery's mount has to be included in my mix despite having to give between four and twenty six pounds to her fifteen rivals. CUMANA BAY, LIGHT HEARTED and PANSY POTTER are likely to offer most resistance, especially the latter named three-year-old who was the victim of gross misfortune last time out relating to 'traffic offences'.
Haydock -- Friday 29/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 19.40: ADMIN
nb- 19.10: VISTERRE
18.40
Four-year-olds have won two of the three renewals to date whilst vintage representatives snared all three win and place positions last year. The only four-year-old in the line up this time around is the recent Nottingham (fast ground) winner DREAM OF OLWYN and though official conditions were describing conditions as good to soft at the time of writing, drying ground is the forecast whereby the James Given raider can notch a quick double on behalf of the yard. HUCKING HEAT won the race for the same trainer/rider team last year and should be there or thereabouts once again, whilst I'M IN THE PINK completes my trio against the field. Two of the four favourites have finished in the frame to date (no winners).
19.10
Bryan Smart has his Hambleton team back in good order whereby VISTERRE could improve her 3/7 ratio in this event. The Noverre filly has yet to prove she has 'trained on' but there was plenty of scope for improvement last year and I would be surprised if the March foal failed to become competitive at the business end of the contest, even on her seasonal debut. DOCTOR PARKES and GILT EDGE GIRL look sure to mount decent challenges at some stage during the contest. Although five of the six winners thus far have been returned at 8/1 or less, just one (4/5) winning favourite has been recorded. Four of the seven market leaders have secured toteplacepot positions.
19.40
The Namid colt ADMIN was bought as a "fun horse" according to trainer Ralph Beckett but the February foal intimated a fair amount of potential when finishing third at Goodwood on his debut. Very green 'early doors' in that event, ADMIN had to be switched off the fence and run around the field but still looked to be a leading contender entering the final furlong before the 'diversion' took its toll. The newcomers SHAKESPEREAN and GREEN FOR LUCK are nominated as the potential dangers.
20.10
Four and five-year-olds have secured the last seven renewals of this contest (juniors lead 4-3) whereby my short list comprises of BOLLIN GRETA, MOONWALKING and BOLD ADVENTURE, especially as the last four winners have carried weights of 9-2 or less. Just two of the eight renewals staged during the last decade have resulted in winning favourites.
20.40
Three-year-olds have secured eleven of the twelve available win and place positions in this event to date, stats which include all four winners. STEEL FREE, BROAD CAIRN and TRICKY SITUATION might be the trio to home in on, though Mark Johnston's Mr Greeley gelding BORROMEO could be anything. Two of the four favourites have finished in the frame (one winner).
21.10
Although a four-year-old won the only renewal of this finale to date four years ago, three-year-olds usually get the better of such contests, particularly at this time of year. I expect the race to revert to 'usual type' whereby the likes of DECISION, SANCTUARY and DEVOTION TO DUTY can figure prominently inside the final quarter mile of the contest.
Newcastle -- Thursday 29/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 20.40: MAZE
nb- 18.25: FLY SILCA FLY
18.25
FLY SILCA FLY went to the races first time up with a decent reputation and it will be interesting to see if Mick Channon's juvenile can step up on his debut performance. The Hawk Wing filly sets the standard of the three horses to have run thus far thoguh it will be interesting to see if newcomers AMARY, BIKINI BABE and LADY SPRINGBANK are good enough to score at the first time of asking.
19.00
Richard Fahey won the inaugural running of this contest last year whereby his hat trick seeking STONECRABSTOMORROW has obviously been targeted for this event. Course and distance winners SAMS SECRET, CELTIC LYNN and MIDDLEMARCH might emerge as the potential party-poopers in the line up.
19.35
Crystal Capella was setting up an unbeaten six race sequence when breaking her maiden tag in this event last year, though it's highly unlikely that any declared horse would be capable of emulating such a fine record this time around. LADY ARTEMISIA might take the beating following a half decent effort when occupying the runner up position at Salisbury on rock hard ground at Salisbury last time out. CHARITY BELLE and MEXICAN JAY might offer most resistance inside the final furlong.
20.10
Karl Burke is the only represented trainer coming to the party in half decent form whereby his Auction House gelding JOHNNY FRIENDLY boasts each way claims, especially now that El Dececy is a doubtful runner. MY MATE MAL and SAN SILVESTRO might be worth a mention for each way speculators who prefer to back horses at rewarding odds.
20.40
MAZE is of particular interest now that Bryan Smart's stable has returned to form. The course and distance winner was placed in a Listed event last year and this race could be there for the taking. Horses that will not go down without a fight however include SOLAR SPIRIT and PAVERSHOOZ and this pair represent the biggest threat to the selection according to the gospel of yours truly.
21.15
It will be well past midnight before ITHBAAT returns to his home bed but hopefully a victory over fellow talented types such as TARZAN and DR JAMESON will have been recorded by then.
Brighton -- Wednesday 27/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 14.40: FANTASTIC DUBAI
nb- 14.10: GINGER GREY
14.10
My self imposed restriction of offering just one horse to be considered in 'win only' events comes back to haunt me here but rules are rules and GINGER GREY is given the nod. Simon Callaghan waxed lyrical about his Bertolini colt before the April foal set foot on the Newmarket racecourse on his debut and though disappointing connections to a fashion, this race has cut up to his advantage. KALAM DALEEL is offered up as the reserve nomination. Four of the seven renewals have been won by the favourite with market leaders finishing second in the other three contests.
14.40
Beaten favourite FANTASTIC DUBAI has to be of interest here with Mick Channon's three-year-old warranting another chance in a moderate event. Potential thieves will be on the lookout for an each way bet to nothing in this 'dead eight' event and perhaps HAND PAINTED and TRUE DECISION best fit the requirement. Two of the three favourites have obliged to date with the biggest priced winner to date returned at just 100/30.
15.15
Four-year-olds have won both renewals thus far though the trend in under threat here with just the moderate Den's Boy representing the vintage. It's difficult to include Paul Doe's mount in the mix with just a pair of win and place positions up for grabs and I prefer the two course and distance winners in the field this time around, namely STEIG and MICK IS BACK.
15.50
This event would take on nightmare proportions if an non runner reared it's ugly head this morning, potentially reducing a 'jigsaw puzzle' of a contest into a win only event. Upwards and onwards in positive mode however by suggesting that BRAMALEA and POTENTIALE might be the pair to home in on.
16.25
Three 8/1 winners have emerged in this contest thus far and horses potentially starting around that area of the market to consider include ARLENE PHILLIPS and SOME GOOD TIME. A more logical winner argubaly lurks within the group in the shape of the El Prado filly LOULOU.
16.55
Five-year-olds have won the finale three times in the last five years and two of this year's three vintage representatives make plenty of appeal in a race which will not take a great deal of winning. Both PUNCHING and course and distance winner PRAGMATIST rate highly on my short list, whilst the recent course winner MR FANTOZZI completes my trio against the field. The fact that all three of the 'selections' have won over this switchback track adds confidence.
Redcar -- Tuesday 26/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 15.40: RASAMAN
nb- 16.10: MAQAAM
14.10
FLYINFLYOUT might claim some prize money here following a decent introduction at Goodwood last week, but it would be disappointing if newcomers WIGAN LANE and WOOD LANE (down at the bottom of the list) could not become competitive at the business end of the contest. Eight of the last ten renewals have fallen to the favourite.
14.40
Seven of the last ten winners have carried weights of 9-7 or more which eliminates the bottom five horses in the list. From the eight that 'survive' the weight barrier trend, I'm inclined to offer chances to EL DECECY, MY MATE MAL and BERTIE VISTA.
15.10
The top two horses in the handicap have plenty to do according to the weight trends whereby my trio against the field consists of ISLAND MUSIC, SARWIN and ROSKO. Three of the four favourites have won this event with the other market leader having finished in the frame.
15.40
Kevin Ryan has his team back in half decent form and the trainer is strongly represented in this event via RASAMAN and course and distance winner LE TOREADOR who are preferred in the order as listed. John Quinn does well with his lightly weighted handicappers whereby PACIFIC PRIDE could be the main threat to the Ryan pair.
16.10
Three newcomers take on a pair of moderate experienced horses and I would be surprised if MAQAAM failed to snare the prize, Mark Johnston's Dubai Destination geldng possibly having most to fear from BOGULA.
16.40
The course and distance winner LAURA'S LADY could double her total on just her second start as the Namid filly was quite impressive on her debut. This appears to be the most competitive race on the card however, whereby REAL DIAMOND and EXCEEDINGLY GOOD (to name but two dangers) should ensure that Alan Swinbank's March foal doesn't get things all her own way.
17.10
High on numbers but short on quality, this finale will take next to no winning. Four-year-olds come to the party on a hat trick and the likes of MONTE CASSINO and SANDY PAR should go well with competent riders in the plate. Similar comments apply to HANSOMIS and PARK'S PRODIGY.
Goodwood -- Monday 25/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.20: IMAAM
nb- 15.10: MADE TO RANSOM
13.30
I'll leave you to work this race out having offered (below) the stats for the first four juvenile races of the season at Goodwood. Richard Hannon has trained two of the four winners as you can see, and the information is offered basically because there are three two-year-old events on Monday's card at the popular venue.
Draw:
7-3-1 (five furlongs--9 ran--good)
1 (five furlongs--4 ran--good to firm)
6-8-10 (six furlongs--12 ran--good)
5-2-12 (six furlongs--12 ran--good to firm)
Winners trained by:
2--R. Hannon (11/2--11/4*)
1--J. Dunlop (11/1)
1--J.S. Moore (25/1)
Favourite stats:
5 favourites: 1 winner--1--placed--3 unplaced
Beaten favourites trained by:
1--M.R. Channon
1--C.G. Cox
1--R. Hannon
1--S. Kirk
1st 3 in betting: 2 winners--3 placed--7 unplaced
For what it's worth my trio against the field is CAPTAIN COOL, BRAVE GURKHA and HOLD YOUR COLOUR.
14.00
The second of the juvenile races on the card which offers the likes of KATE SKATE and OUT THE RING to become competitive at the business end of the race, probably having BOGA to beat.
14.35
Another new race on what is basically an additional fixture to the (Goodwood) calendar. Only Richard Hannon (ORANGE PIP), Gary Moore (MYMUMSAYSIMTHEBEST) and John Quinn (FANTASY BELIEVER) have trained winners during the last fortnight at the time of writing. The three trainers offer aggregate stats of 21/116 during the period, which compares favourably against figures of 0/66 via the other represetned trainers!
15.10
Four favourites have won via the last nine renewals which four-year-olds won on six occasions. The pick of the 'junior set' on this occasion might prove to be MADE TO RANSOM and YAHRAB, especially as PERKS would have preferred cut in the ground. I'll stay with the trio however, as thundery showers are forecast for the Goodwood area, some of which could be particularly heavy according to the 'Met office'.
15.45
This is the last of the juvenile events on the card and probably the most difficult to assess. TIMELORD and FLAPJACK are perfectly decent horses who have earned the right to be well supported, but I feel it would be a little disappointing if one of the newcomers failed to get the measure of the pair close home. With so many leading (juvenile) stables involved it's almost impossible to pick the pin out of the haystack, but I'll go for broke and select FIRE AND STONE.
16.20
John Dunlop has his team in great order now with eight of his last eleven runners having finished 'in the three', stats which include three winners. The local trainer saddles his Pivotal colt IMAAM on this occasion and there was plenty to like about the way the January foal scooted clear of his rivals at Folkestone to record a seven length victory. John won the inaugural running of this event for good measure. The main dangers appear to be EASTERN EMPIRE and STAR LINKS, though OUTOFOIL could be interesting at potentially rewarding odds if the rain arrives earlier than expected.
16.55
This contest has a 'Bank Holiday banana skin of a handicap' written all over it and my move will porbably be to lay horses at the front end of the market which have not attracted support on the exchanges, believing the relevant horses to represent poor value for money. That doesn't assist my work in this column however which is principally to offer horses with a chance of winning, and my tentative quartet against the field comprises of FEASIBLE, TIGNELLO, DUKE OF MILAN and STAR STRIDER.
17.30
COSSACK PRINCE and STREETS APART should produce the winner of the finale between them, whilst if you're in front and want to play up winnings on a speculative each way option, STAR OF POMPEY could reward win and place investors.
Fontwell -- Sunday 24/05/2009
Best bets:
nap- 16.10: SHAKE THE BARLEY
nb- 17.20: THECIRCLEOFTRUST
14.00
Local trainer Gary Moore held two options earlier in the week but it will surprise very few readers that the dual purpose trainer has opted to saddle BENHEGO, the Act One gelding having snared a course and distance victory on his one and only start over timber to date. RED LANCER is the obvious danger though OBRIGADO is an interesting (late) addition to the hurdling ranks.
14.30
It's difficult to get away from the two recent winners in the field, namely HEIR TO BE and SANTERA. Gary Moore won this race last year and with two of the previous three winners having carried low weights to victory in this event, Gary's four-year-old raider PERLON cannot be dismissed.
15.00
It seems light years ago now that Sir Michael Stoute once held Derby aspirations for MACLEAN, and though the eight-year-old has disappointed various connections down the line, this course winner could record another victory at this popular venue. Beaten favouri
