After the awesome start to the Classics with Camelots' weaving, determined and ultimately impressive win on Saturday, it all systems go for the fillies version only 24 hours later. Lets check them out in the same format as the 2000, but hopefully with more success.
MAYBE- YES OR NO?: To be honest, I would have to say she is definitely worth favouritism after a blemish free two year old campaign, in which she won at Royal Ascot in the Chesham, a listed race, before winning a Group 3, then a Group 2, and then winning a Group 1, the Moyglare Stud Stakes on her final start. She is hard to knock, with only slight concerns about the trip, in her first try at a mile, and maybe the dip might be a problem, but she wouldn't be one I'd be against with great confidence. She has be very, very competitive, but at the prices, I'm not quite sure.
WHAT ABOUT THE MARKET CHALLENGERS?:
We'll start with Mashoora, the French lead hope, who was very taking in the way she won her comeback, under a very cheeky Christophe Soumillon, but despite that, I have my worries. She may not have stayed the mile on her only previous try at the trip, and she has only competed at Group 3 level so far. I would bravely leave her out.
Next is Moonstone Magic, who was impressive at Newbury last time and has been supplemented for this, rather than going straight to the Irish Guineas. She has definite credentials if the ground was bottomless like both her wins to date, but her running on drying ground would be a big concern, despite the yard flying and her clearly having a lot of ability. Again, I would leave her alone on the prices.
Also in this section, the two Godolphin runners. It all surrounded which one Frankie would pick in the week leading up to this, and he has selected Lyric Of Light. She won a Group 2 and a Group 1 on the Rowley Mile on her last start, after Samitar, herself a very good yardstick, got first run on her into the dip, and is obviously very talented and I would definitely take her each way at 10/1.
As for Discourse, who won with ease on the July course in a Group 3 last year, has to go well too, but at the same price as her stablemate, I would leave her for Lyric Of Light.
Diala is the final one in this section, who was a narrow second to Lyric Of Light on debut, before routing a decent maiden field on the Rowley Mile on her second start, could have claims especially for a yard that don't put runners in Classics willy-nilly, as showed with Dancing Rain last year in the Oaks. May well suprise a few as she is unexposed.
ANY OUTSIDERS TO GO WELL?:
Lightening Pearl is a doubtful runner anyway, and because there is a big doubt regarding a mixture of trip and ground, despite a good two year old campaign at 6. She may be a sprinter in time. As for lively outsiders,I think there are 3 above 25/1 I could give a chance to. The first is Laugh Out Loud, who is very unexposed and no runs on turf to date, but has shown plenty of ability and may be overpriced around 40/1. I also can make a case for Starscope, what seems to be the Gosden second string, but ran 4th in the Nell Gwyn (7f), on a day where being with the pace was vital, she was right at the back before going on close home, beaten just a length. A mile will suit better and can go well at around 33/1. And finally Sunday Times, who has a chance of minor money despite running into some of these in the past. I do feel her future lies over a mile though.
Good Luck and enjoy
ADVISED:
2pts WIN Maybe
3pts E/W Lyric Of Light
1pt E/W Starscope
0.5pt E/W Laugh Out Loud
Saturday, 5 May 2012
Other selections 05/05/12
Back again to have a look everywhere else on Saturday. While start with the rest of Newmarket where I can't wait for the 2.30 Jockey Club Stakes, which has the makings of a classic. I think Meandre may be a bit short so will be watching with no definitive view. But a great one to watch. Another race to watch for later big races is the 4.55, Newmarket Stakes. I would have loved to see Swedish Sailor, but he misses another engagement, but still an intriguing race, with Frankel's brother Noble Mission the likely favourite. Michelangelo is a fascinating newcomer, a $550,000 purchase and related to a lot of very high profile names. Why go for Listed company on his debut, but John Gosden is so shrewd and will know what he wants to see.
The best bet for me at Newmarket after Abtaal is Eton Rifles in the Palace House (3.45) each way. He is still lightly raced for a seven year old, and changed hands for big money to Stuart Williams before winning at Fontainebleu last time. He has a good draw and is progressing well, so each way must go well.
At Goodwood, Vita Nova (2.15) is the star attraction, and I can't see her losing here. Unbeaten with Ian Mongan on and on seasonal debut and likes a bit of juice in the ground. Also, on the downs, I like the look of Raasekha in the Listed race (4.05), despite Neutrafa's presence. She ran well last time in is well regarded, and in this potentially weak race, with Esentepe near the head of the market, I would take her or Neutrafa each way, as they will prefer the ground as it is now.
A big day and a big crowd expected at Thirsk for one of their biggest days of the year, and I like a couple here too. Mon Brav in the 3.20 contest looks good value at 12/1. He is much better at this time of year, and with a good draw on a track he's won at twice, should be thereabouts. Also, the big race is the Thirsk Hunt Cup at 4.30, with the very warm order being Farrh for Godolphin. He is way too short and I'll go for Space War each way. He was 3rd in the race last year, when I was there and on him at 33's that day, he is 5lbs lower this year and should run well again.
Then to Uttoxeter, my local, for a decent 7 race card. I like Royaume Bleu quite strongly in the 5.20. This race is weak and I want to take on Bennys Mist, and this 7 year old seems the horse to do it with. He has always run well at the track and recieves nearly 2 stone from the favourite, and is a sure fire each way bet and a small win play too. Also, have a look at Out Of Nothing in the opener at 2.20. He caught most peoples eye at Chepstow, with the jockey getting a 10 day ban for not trying to get the best possible placing, and with Robert Thornton aboard, who's 1-2 for the yard in the last 5 seasons, could be very interesting.
The evening's fare is shared between Doncaster on the Flat and Hexham over the sticks. We'll start on Town Moor at Doncaster. I like the chances of Luca Cumani improving an already brilliant record at the track with his only runner, Out Do in the 6.55. He showed good form at 2 and pedigree suggest he'll be better at 3. He'll be hard to beat. I've followed Farlow for quite a while and think he will improve a lot this year. He runs in the 7.25 and at 14/1 is a massive price after a troubled tune-up run at Kempton last time.
Up in Northumberland, the most testing conditions anywhere this evening kick off at 5.40 for a seven race card. I like Hoar Frost in the opening selling hurdle. The yard have hit a purple patch and ran well when he last ran at Hexham, and looks great each way if it stays to the 8 runners. Finally, to the last British race of the day, the 8.40, I like The Wicked Kipper. Martin Keighley has sent 3 runners up there tonight and this must be the lead of them, with a respectable run in a Listed Bumper last time behind one of the Aintree Festival bumper winners. Must go well.
Good Luck with whatever you do today
Will
ADVISED: Eton Rifles 1pt E/W 3.45 NewM
Vita Nova 5pts WIN 2.15 GWood
Mon Brav 2pts E/W 3.20 Thirsk
Space War 1pt E/W 4.30 Thirsk
Royaume Bleu 2pts WIN 5.20 Uttox
Out Do 3pts WIN 6.55 Donny
Farlow 2pts E/W 7.25 Donny
Hoar Frost 2pts E/W 5.40 Hex
The best bet for me at Newmarket after Abtaal is Eton Rifles in the Palace House (3.45) each way. He is still lightly raced for a seven year old, and changed hands for big money to Stuart Williams before winning at Fontainebleu last time. He has a good draw and is progressing well, so each way must go well.
At Goodwood, Vita Nova (2.15) is the star attraction, and I can't see her losing here. Unbeaten with Ian Mongan on and on seasonal debut and likes a bit of juice in the ground. Also, on the downs, I like the look of Raasekha in the Listed race (4.05), despite Neutrafa's presence. She ran well last time in is well regarded, and in this potentially weak race, with Esentepe near the head of the market, I would take her or Neutrafa each way, as they will prefer the ground as it is now.
A big day and a big crowd expected at Thirsk for one of their biggest days of the year, and I like a couple here too. Mon Brav in the 3.20 contest looks good value at 12/1. He is much better at this time of year, and with a good draw on a track he's won at twice, should be thereabouts. Also, the big race is the Thirsk Hunt Cup at 4.30, with the very warm order being Farrh for Godolphin. He is way too short and I'll go for Space War each way. He was 3rd in the race last year, when I was there and on him at 33's that day, he is 5lbs lower this year and should run well again.
Then to Uttoxeter, my local, for a decent 7 race card. I like Royaume Bleu quite strongly in the 5.20. This race is weak and I want to take on Bennys Mist, and this 7 year old seems the horse to do it with. He has always run well at the track and recieves nearly 2 stone from the favourite, and is a sure fire each way bet and a small win play too. Also, have a look at Out Of Nothing in the opener at 2.20. He caught most peoples eye at Chepstow, with the jockey getting a 10 day ban for not trying to get the best possible placing, and with Robert Thornton aboard, who's 1-2 for the yard in the last 5 seasons, could be very interesting.
The evening's fare is shared between Doncaster on the Flat and Hexham over the sticks. We'll start on Town Moor at Doncaster. I like the chances of Luca Cumani improving an already brilliant record at the track with his only runner, Out Do in the 6.55. He showed good form at 2 and pedigree suggest he'll be better at 3. He'll be hard to beat. I've followed Farlow for quite a while and think he will improve a lot this year. He runs in the 7.25 and at 14/1 is a massive price after a troubled tune-up run at Kempton last time.
Up in Northumberland, the most testing conditions anywhere this evening kick off at 5.40 for a seven race card. I like Hoar Frost in the opening selling hurdle. The yard have hit a purple patch and ran well when he last ran at Hexham, and looks great each way if it stays to the 8 runners. Finally, to the last British race of the day, the 8.40, I like The Wicked Kipper. Martin Keighley has sent 3 runners up there tonight and this must be the lead of them, with a respectable run in a Listed Bumper last time behind one of the Aintree Festival bumper winners. Must go well.
Good Luck with whatever you do today
Will
ADVISED: Eton Rifles 1pt E/W 3.45 NewM
Vita Nova 5pts WIN 2.15 GWood
Mon Brav 2pts E/W 3.20 Thirsk
Space War 1pt E/W 4.30 Thirsk
Royaume Bleu 2pts WIN 5.20 Uttox
Out Do 3pts WIN 6.55 Donny
Farlow 2pts E/W 7.25 Donny
Hoar Frost 2pts E/W 5.40 Hex
2000 Guineas Preview
This year's 2000 Guineas as ever kicks off the British classics, and as ever, is very well contested. There are many angles to go on to find the winner, French raiders, the best, and mostly highly tried 2 year olds, potential superstars and the big question about favourite Camelot.
CAMELOT- YES OR NO?: For me, even more so at the prices, it is a no. He is obviously exciting and the way he won the Racing Post Trophy was very good, but afterwards, connections were very certain on this race and then the Derby. But since that sunny day on Town Moor, his price has fluctuated to all odds since, with connections becoming unsure about the ground and various other factors since. That worries me despite the Coolmore insiders at Ladbrokes being shortest on him all the way through. I think he will probably find the big field quite daunting and the dip tricky. Saying this, if he can keep up with the frenetic early gallop, still travelling, he might be worth an in-running play. I would prefer to be looking elsewhere today.
WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER MARKET CHALLENGERS?:
Well, we'll start off with the home party and Trumpet Major. He was impressive in the Craven and seemed to handle the dip really well, scooting clear of a suspect field with the minimum of fuss. I think the stands side draws today will be important and he is right against the rail in 18. He has to have an outstanding each way chance at about 9/1.
Next in home colours is Top Offer. He is the most unknown of any, but from the signals that Roger Charlton has been sending out, he may suprise a few. I would worry that he hasn't had a run this year, despite having an engagement in the Greenham (pulled out due to the soft ground), and may be a bit green here on only his second racecourse appearance. I would wait for another day.
Now to the French contingent, where I am very sweet on Abtaal. He beat French Fifteen very comfortable on softened ground at Saint-Cloud last year, even though this was turned around in the Prix Djebel at Deauville last time, with a neck in it at the line, and a lot quieter ride on Abtaal that day, confirmed by trainer Jean-Claude Rouget saying he was "fat that day and will improve a lot from it". He has bad-boy Soumillon aboard too. The only disadvantage is the draw in 2, I am hoping they bunch in the middle of the track and with prominent tactics, should be bang there. I can't see Hermival beating either of those from the Djebel and is too short for me.
The other we should mention in this category is the Coolmore super-sub Power, who in a virtually blemish free two year old campaign, ending with a good second in the Dewhurst here where he wasn't great through the dip, losing important ground, but must go well here if he has trained on.
ANY FROM THE OUTSIDERS?:
There are a couple I would love to see run well include Red Duke, who is massively overpriced due to his connections I think, and a slightly disappointing run on his only visit to the Rowley Mile in the Dewhurst, despite that 80/1 is huge. Casper Netscher is the other I would love to see run well for connections, and has the form to figure, but a mile on softened ground is a big worry. I think Bronterre, who was behind Casper in the Greenham last time, is the one to take at big odds. He ran far too free in that Newbury race, but with less bold tactics, Jamie Spencer aboard and Richard Hannon saying he has been "Flying at home since the Greenham", 33/1 could be a little bit silly.
Whatever happens it'll be a great renewal. Good Luck with your views and bets
Will
ADVISED: Trumpet Major 2pts E/W
Abtaal 3pts WIN
Bronterre 1pt E/W
CAMELOT- YES OR NO?: For me, even more so at the prices, it is a no. He is obviously exciting and the way he won the Racing Post Trophy was very good, but afterwards, connections were very certain on this race and then the Derby. But since that sunny day on Town Moor, his price has fluctuated to all odds since, with connections becoming unsure about the ground and various other factors since. That worries me despite the Coolmore insiders at Ladbrokes being shortest on him all the way through. I think he will probably find the big field quite daunting and the dip tricky. Saying this, if he can keep up with the frenetic early gallop, still travelling, he might be worth an in-running play. I would prefer to be looking elsewhere today.
WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER MARKET CHALLENGERS?:
Well, we'll start off with the home party and Trumpet Major. He was impressive in the Craven and seemed to handle the dip really well, scooting clear of a suspect field with the minimum of fuss. I think the stands side draws today will be important and he is right against the rail in 18. He has to have an outstanding each way chance at about 9/1.
Next in home colours is Top Offer. He is the most unknown of any, but from the signals that Roger Charlton has been sending out, he may suprise a few. I would worry that he hasn't had a run this year, despite having an engagement in the Greenham (pulled out due to the soft ground), and may be a bit green here on only his second racecourse appearance. I would wait for another day.
Now to the French contingent, where I am very sweet on Abtaal. He beat French Fifteen very comfortable on softened ground at Saint-Cloud last year, even though this was turned around in the Prix Djebel at Deauville last time, with a neck in it at the line, and a lot quieter ride on Abtaal that day, confirmed by trainer Jean-Claude Rouget saying he was "fat that day and will improve a lot from it". He has bad-boy Soumillon aboard too. The only disadvantage is the draw in 2, I am hoping they bunch in the middle of the track and with prominent tactics, should be bang there. I can't see Hermival beating either of those from the Djebel and is too short for me.
The other we should mention in this category is the Coolmore super-sub Power, who in a virtually blemish free two year old campaign, ending with a good second in the Dewhurst here where he wasn't great through the dip, losing important ground, but must go well here if he has trained on.
ANY FROM THE OUTSIDERS?:
There are a couple I would love to see run well include Red Duke, who is massively overpriced due to his connections I think, and a slightly disappointing run on his only visit to the Rowley Mile in the Dewhurst, despite that 80/1 is huge. Casper Netscher is the other I would love to see run well for connections, and has the form to figure, but a mile on softened ground is a big worry. I think Bronterre, who was behind Casper in the Greenham last time, is the one to take at big odds. He ran far too free in that Newbury race, but with less bold tactics, Jamie Spencer aboard and Richard Hannon saying he has been "Flying at home since the Greenham", 33/1 could be a little bit silly.
Whatever happens it'll be a great renewal. Good Luck with your views and bets
Will
ADVISED: Trumpet Major 2pts E/W
Abtaal 3pts WIN
Bronterre 1pt E/W
Saturday, 28 April 2012
It ain't over yet!! - Selections 28/4/12
Today is a bit of an anomalie, especially at Sandown, where fast ground usually runs the show for this meeting. But with the recent bad weather, no suprise a Welsh National favourite heads the betting!
The Channel 4 coverage kicks off with the Sandown 2.00: This is a fiercely competitive handicap hurdle over nearly 2 and a half miles. Cedre Bleu is a very interesting runner, back over hurdles after a stop start chasing career, but with bags of promise, personally wouldn't suprise me if he went off favourite. I also like The Pier, who I really fancied last time, but raced too free, looked like winning at the last but used to much energy early on, if he can settle, he'd be very dangerous. But the selection is Headly's Bridge, who I have followed all season, won his handicap debut at Towcester two starts back, and didn't get first run last time at Chepstow, running on well, and looks overpriced to me off bottom weight on bad ground.
Then we head to Yorkshire to the undulations of Ripon at 2.20: The Osteopath is a good starting point, with lots of form on bad ground, but the concern being a lack of Ripon experience. Silvery Moon catches the eye, usually needing a run and from an in-form yard. But I will nervously go for Dubai Dynamo. You will know your fate early depending on how he travels, but likes Ripon and bad ground and looks solid each way.
Back for the Celebration Chase at Sandown at 2.35: If Wishfull Thinking enjoys himself, which is questionable, he will be very dangerous. Sanctuaire is a complete unknown at this level over fences but has loads of ability if taking to this test. But I feel the safest option is French Opera, who won this last year and is very reliable on any ground, and pretty good right handed.
Now the Bet365 Gold Cup (Sandown 3.10): Any Currency is an enigma in every sense of the word, but has an eye-shield on the first time and runs well at Sandown. Roalco Des Farges jumped really well at Chepstow last time but he seems to be better left handed. So I'll chance at Tidal Bay, who is a monkey, but I think he will stay and feel he will like the track more than Le Beau Bai and West End Rocker.
Back to Ripon at 3.30: I think Montaff will run well despite his off-putting form figures, off same mark and conditions as last year's win in the race. But for me this evolves around Gulf Of Naples, a strong and progressive stayer from an in form yard and will be very hard to pass.
On the Flat at 3.45 Sandown to finish proceedings, I want to be against Twice Over, who had a very hard race at Newmarket. Columbian has form on soft ground so will be involved. But, I really fancy Poet, who loves bad ground and Ryan Moore for Clive Cox just confirms suspicions he is highly fancied.
Good Luck
SELECTIONS: Headly's Bridge 1pt E/W (2.00 Sandown)
Dubai Dynamo 1pt E/W (2.20 Ripon)
French Opera 3pts E/W (2.35 Sandown)
Tidal Bay 1pt WIN (3.10 Sandown)
Gulf Of Naples 5pts WIN (3.30 Ripon)
Poet 3pts WIN (3.45 Sandown)
The Channel 4 coverage kicks off with the Sandown 2.00: This is a fiercely competitive handicap hurdle over nearly 2 and a half miles. Cedre Bleu is a very interesting runner, back over hurdles after a stop start chasing career, but with bags of promise, personally wouldn't suprise me if he went off favourite. I also like The Pier, who I really fancied last time, but raced too free, looked like winning at the last but used to much energy early on, if he can settle, he'd be very dangerous. But the selection is Headly's Bridge, who I have followed all season, won his handicap debut at Towcester two starts back, and didn't get first run last time at Chepstow, running on well, and looks overpriced to me off bottom weight on bad ground.
Then we head to Yorkshire to the undulations of Ripon at 2.20: The Osteopath is a good starting point, with lots of form on bad ground, but the concern being a lack of Ripon experience. Silvery Moon catches the eye, usually needing a run and from an in-form yard. But I will nervously go for Dubai Dynamo. You will know your fate early depending on how he travels, but likes Ripon and bad ground and looks solid each way.
Back for the Celebration Chase at Sandown at 2.35: If Wishfull Thinking enjoys himself, which is questionable, he will be very dangerous. Sanctuaire is a complete unknown at this level over fences but has loads of ability if taking to this test. But I feel the safest option is French Opera, who won this last year and is very reliable on any ground, and pretty good right handed.
Now the Bet365 Gold Cup (Sandown 3.10): Any Currency is an enigma in every sense of the word, but has an eye-shield on the first time and runs well at Sandown. Roalco Des Farges jumped really well at Chepstow last time but he seems to be better left handed. So I'll chance at Tidal Bay, who is a monkey, but I think he will stay and feel he will like the track more than Le Beau Bai and West End Rocker.
Back to Ripon at 3.30: I think Montaff will run well despite his off-putting form figures, off same mark and conditions as last year's win in the race. But for me this evolves around Gulf Of Naples, a strong and progressive stayer from an in form yard and will be very hard to pass.
On the Flat at 3.45 Sandown to finish proceedings, I want to be against Twice Over, who had a very hard race at Newmarket. Columbian has form on soft ground so will be involved. But, I really fancy Poet, who loves bad ground and Ryan Moore for Clive Cox just confirms suspicions he is highly fancied.
Good Luck
SELECTIONS: Headly's Bridge 1pt E/W (2.00 Sandown)
Dubai Dynamo 1pt E/W (2.20 Ripon)
French Opera 3pts E/W (2.35 Sandown)
Tidal Bay 1pt WIN (3.10 Sandown)
Gulf Of Naples 5pts WIN (3.30 Ripon)
Poet 3pts WIN (3.45 Sandown)
The end of a vintage season, A tribute. 28/4/12
Today signals the end of the jumps season, a season that has captured a lot of minds, for various different reasons. Cheltenham was superb, a typical blend of class, determination, characters, successful gambles and a lot of British trained winners. From that, we really saw some incredible displays, notably from the slick, smooth and beautiful Sprinter Sacre, who demolished an above average Arkle field without turning a hair. Also, stablemate Simonsig, the long striding grey who was very impressive in the Neptune Novices Hurdle, clearly has an outstanding future, either over hurdles or the larger obstacles. The gamble of Son Of Flicka (50/1 into 17/2), Synchronised dethroning Long Run, Hunt Ball's meteoric rise through the weights, there has been so many of these stories or displays that keep the sport fresh, but with some of the older horses, Kauto Star, Neptune Collonges etc, who people adhere to year after year coming back, just add to the excitement and spice of the Jumps every season. Aintree was also very good, personally I felt two displays shone out, apart from Neptune Collonges' late thrust in the National, breaking the heart of Sunnyhillboy and connections, who of course had the circumstances of Gold Cup winner Synchronised having to be put down to worry about most.
Firstly, Malcolm Jefferson's training feat with not one but two Cheltenham winners, going to Aintree with top weight and winning again was outstanding, a monumental effort, who didn't deserve to lose his According To Pete in the National, the only sour note to a great season for this small Northern yard.
Secondly, I feel the way Nicky Henderson managed to calm down Finian's Rainbow, who was a very exuberent, chaotic novice chaser was oustanding. Not only did he win the Queen Mother, albeit with a little controversy, but to step back up to 2 and a half miles in the Melling Chase, beating a rejuvenated Wishfull Thinking cosily was very good.
Punchestown has been rather odd this week, with the horses slooshing their way through the mud and puddles, but again we saw Quevega win again, this wonder mare who I just pray faces Big Buck's somewhere next season, Hurricane Fly win yesterday, showing no effects of his Cheltenham flop, and the likes of Oscara Dara, Sir Des Champs (apart from the last fence blunder) and Sizing Europe all winning and looking good to come back next season and potentially dominate on both sides of the Irish Sea. They still have racing today, Quel Esprit favourite for the Punchestown Gold Cup.
That's it for the 2012 season, I can't wait for 2013!
Firstly, Malcolm Jefferson's training feat with not one but two Cheltenham winners, going to Aintree with top weight and winning again was outstanding, a monumental effort, who didn't deserve to lose his According To Pete in the National, the only sour note to a great season for this small Northern yard.
Secondly, I feel the way Nicky Henderson managed to calm down Finian's Rainbow, who was a very exuberent, chaotic novice chaser was oustanding. Not only did he win the Queen Mother, albeit with a little controversy, but to step back up to 2 and a half miles in the Melling Chase, beating a rejuvenated Wishfull Thinking cosily was very good.
Punchestown has been rather odd this week, with the horses slooshing their way through the mud and puddles, but again we saw Quevega win again, this wonder mare who I just pray faces Big Buck's somewhere next season, Hurricane Fly win yesterday, showing no effects of his Cheltenham flop, and the likes of Oscara Dara, Sir Des Champs (apart from the last fence blunder) and Sizing Europe all winning and looking good to come back next season and potentially dominate on both sides of the Irish Sea. They still have racing today, Quel Esprit favourite for the Punchestown Gold Cup.
That's it for the 2012 season, I can't wait for 2013!
Friday, 6 April 2012
Saturday's mixed fare 7/4/12
Saturday the 7th of April sees another very busy and competitive 'transition' Saturday, full of good fare on both the jumps and flat.
To kick off the terrestrial races, there is a London Mile qualifier at Kempton (2.05), and as ever with Saturday handicaps, a fiercely contested one. An interesting jockey booking is Ryan Moore for Mike Murphy with Chapter And Verse, who has a break of 147 days to overcome, but his last win was the London Mile final in 2010. He has a chance as does the quirky, but very talented Riggins, who ran okay at lingfield after a break recently. But my vote goes to MAVERIK, who is improving all the time, with a win on the snow in Switzerland last time, but his win before that beating the since prolific George Guru in a quick time makes his mark of 84 seem still workable.
Next is the Betfair Chase Series Final - Haydock (2.25). Horses that fit the short list include Tiger O'Toole, who is more unexposed than most in here over fences and has conditions to suit. Same applies to Suburban Bay, but I feel he will be too short in a more competitive heat here. So the selection is ZITENKA, who despite the yards quiet spell, ran very promisingly after a break at Carlisle last time and I feel he is better at this time of year, and may be the value in a difficult race.
The next C4 race is the Snowdrop Fillies Stakes, a listed contest over a mile at Kempton. Raasekha obviously catches the eye, with only 2 runs next to her name, but I'm thinking that today may not be her day, especially with a layoff to overcome. Personally, I prefer SOORAAH, who is more battle hardened, but ran well in the Winter Derby, on a track that wouldn't be preferable, and back to a track with a longer straight such as Kempton, which isn't to dissimilar to that of Meydan's straight he won on over the winter, he would have leading claims.
Then we go north of the border to Musselburgh for the Whistlejacket Conditions Stakes over the flying five furlongs at 2.45. Old Borderlescott would be great if he could score, but I think his age has caught up with him at 10. Captain Dunne usually needs a run before seen to better effect. So I go for HAMISH McGONAGALL, who is ultra consistent, loves Musselburgh and despite giving weight away all round, should collect for a 9th career triumph.
Back to Haydock for a very tricky Betfair Hurdle Series Final at 2.55 over 2 and a half miles. Brian Ellison dominates here with 7 of the 20 runners and has favourite Hada Men in his locker, devastating at Carlisle last time and remains unexposed. Personally though, of his team, I prefer Union Island, who is unexposed and will love conditions, with James Best taking a valuable 5 pounds off too. But I have always had a soft spot for TOP SMART, who I have followed for a long while, ran really well here last year and despite a couple of forgettable runs, won last time at Sandown to remain in good nick and along with Union Island, both at 12/1 at time of writing, represent good each way value.
The Queen's Prize next at Kempton again at (3.15). Rasheed represents in form connections, despite his quirks, as does Gulf Of Naples. But I am very keen on ACTIVATE. He looked very well handicapped in the early season last year with Michael Bell when winning a nice handicap at Haydock off a mark of 91 before losing confidence after being brought down in a horror incident at Goodwood. Has since moved to Kevin Ryan, who has previous with similar types of horse in terms of revitalising them, again making a new mark of 92, only one lb higher than his last win, a course win, winning both seasonal debuts at 3 and 4, and the current 9/1 look very tempting.
The next is the Levy Board Handicap Chase at Haydock over 2 and a half miles. Pasco continues to be helped by the handicapper, but I feel his time of year has passed. I have a niggling feeling that Owen Glendower is best at 2 miles so I will be opposing another favourite. I am siding with LORD VILLEZ, who is James Reveley's first ride for Ferdy Murphy since the riding arrangement reached between both parties in the week. He is a tricky customer, who got a good ride to beat Mr Syntax, who won since and reopposes here, at Newcastle last month, but Reveley looks the ideal pilot and again 10/1 looks decent each way.
Finally, back to Scotland and Musselburgh's new race the Royal Mile over a mile for 3yos. Each way angles could be Kinloch castle at the bottom, who has already experienced juice in the ground, but has a bad draw here. Zakreet also appeals because he is one of the two distance winners and has a win on soft ground too. But it very hard to get away from SWITZERLAND, who demolished a decent field at Wolverhampton last month, and despite a 12lb rise, still looks like an improver and can end the show on a winner.
SELECTIONS:
MAVERIK
ZITENKA E/W
SOORAAH
HAMISH McGONAGALL
TOP SMART/UNION ISLAND e/w
ACTIVATE
LORD VILLEZ E/W
SWITZERLAND
Good luck
To kick off the terrestrial races, there is a London Mile qualifier at Kempton (2.05), and as ever with Saturday handicaps, a fiercely contested one. An interesting jockey booking is Ryan Moore for Mike Murphy with Chapter And Verse, who has a break of 147 days to overcome, but his last win was the London Mile final in 2010. He has a chance as does the quirky, but very talented Riggins, who ran okay at lingfield after a break recently. But my vote goes to MAVERIK, who is improving all the time, with a win on the snow in Switzerland last time, but his win before that beating the since prolific George Guru in a quick time makes his mark of 84 seem still workable.
Next is the Betfair Chase Series Final - Haydock (2.25). Horses that fit the short list include Tiger O'Toole, who is more unexposed than most in here over fences and has conditions to suit. Same applies to Suburban Bay, but I feel he will be too short in a more competitive heat here. So the selection is ZITENKA, who despite the yards quiet spell, ran very promisingly after a break at Carlisle last time and I feel he is better at this time of year, and may be the value in a difficult race.
The next C4 race is the Snowdrop Fillies Stakes, a listed contest over a mile at Kempton. Raasekha obviously catches the eye, with only 2 runs next to her name, but I'm thinking that today may not be her day, especially with a layoff to overcome. Personally, I prefer SOORAAH, who is more battle hardened, but ran well in the Winter Derby, on a track that wouldn't be preferable, and back to a track with a longer straight such as Kempton, which isn't to dissimilar to that of Meydan's straight he won on over the winter, he would have leading claims.
Then we go north of the border to Musselburgh for the Whistlejacket Conditions Stakes over the flying five furlongs at 2.45. Old Borderlescott would be great if he could score, but I think his age has caught up with him at 10. Captain Dunne usually needs a run before seen to better effect. So I go for HAMISH McGONAGALL, who is ultra consistent, loves Musselburgh and despite giving weight away all round, should collect for a 9th career triumph.
Back to Haydock for a very tricky Betfair Hurdle Series Final at 2.55 over 2 and a half miles. Brian Ellison dominates here with 7 of the 20 runners and has favourite Hada Men in his locker, devastating at Carlisle last time and remains unexposed. Personally though, of his team, I prefer Union Island, who is unexposed and will love conditions, with James Best taking a valuable 5 pounds off too. But I have always had a soft spot for TOP SMART, who I have followed for a long while, ran really well here last year and despite a couple of forgettable runs, won last time at Sandown to remain in good nick and along with Union Island, both at 12/1 at time of writing, represent good each way value.
The Queen's Prize next at Kempton again at (3.15). Rasheed represents in form connections, despite his quirks, as does Gulf Of Naples. But I am very keen on ACTIVATE. He looked very well handicapped in the early season last year with Michael Bell when winning a nice handicap at Haydock off a mark of 91 before losing confidence after being brought down in a horror incident at Goodwood. Has since moved to Kevin Ryan, who has previous with similar types of horse in terms of revitalising them, again making a new mark of 92, only one lb higher than his last win, a course win, winning both seasonal debuts at 3 and 4, and the current 9/1 look very tempting.
The next is the Levy Board Handicap Chase at Haydock over 2 and a half miles. Pasco continues to be helped by the handicapper, but I feel his time of year has passed. I have a niggling feeling that Owen Glendower is best at 2 miles so I will be opposing another favourite. I am siding with LORD VILLEZ, who is James Reveley's first ride for Ferdy Murphy since the riding arrangement reached between both parties in the week. He is a tricky customer, who got a good ride to beat Mr Syntax, who won since and reopposes here, at Newcastle last month, but Reveley looks the ideal pilot and again 10/1 looks decent each way.
Finally, back to Scotland and Musselburgh's new race the Royal Mile over a mile for 3yos. Each way angles could be Kinloch castle at the bottom, who has already experienced juice in the ground, but has a bad draw here. Zakreet also appeals because he is one of the two distance winners and has a win on soft ground too. But it very hard to get away from SWITZERLAND, who demolished a decent field at Wolverhampton last month, and despite a 12lb rise, still looks like an improver and can end the show on a winner.
SELECTIONS:
MAVERIK
ZITENKA E/W
SOORAAH
HAMISH McGONAGALL
TOP SMART/UNION ISLAND e/w
ACTIVATE
LORD VILLEZ E/W
SWITZERLAND
Good luck
Soumillon, has he mellowed?
On the back of the news that Christophe Soumillon has been signed up to ride one of the most exciting flat horses in training, Dabirsim, the first thought that runs through my head is, has he finally matured.
He first became a household name to racing fans by sweeping through the 2003 flat season, with his first Arc on Dalakhani and numerous group one's, including more on Dalakhani and a Racing post trophy on American Post, but became more famous for his in his next prosperous year, 2006, for his celebration when winning the King George and Queen Elizabeth diamond stakes on Hurricane Run. He also shone on Shirocco in the Coronation Cup that year, but had a constant cloud over his temperament and attitude.
Personally, I feel his change of codes to ride a Grade 1 jumps winner in 2010 was a kickback at all of his doubters that he has built up, rightly or wrongly, over the years previous to that. Personally, I feel the growing presence and popularity he has incurred in Dubai has helped hugely change his image, as almost a 'celebrity' in Dubai, riding numerous winners for South African maestro Mike De Kock, who also looks to have had a positive influence.
And with that image, comes responsibility by a lot of his home trainers after the bad-boy Belgian has become a mellow, mature and very very reliable big race jockey
He first became a household name to racing fans by sweeping through the 2003 flat season, with his first Arc on Dalakhani and numerous group one's, including more on Dalakhani and a Racing post trophy on American Post, but became more famous for his in his next prosperous year, 2006, for his celebration when winning the King George and Queen Elizabeth diamond stakes on Hurricane Run. He also shone on Shirocco in the Coronation Cup that year, but had a constant cloud over his temperament and attitude.
Personally, I feel his change of codes to ride a Grade 1 jumps winner in 2010 was a kickback at all of his doubters that he has built up, rightly or wrongly, over the years previous to that. Personally, I feel the growing presence and popularity he has incurred in Dubai has helped hugely change his image, as almost a 'celebrity' in Dubai, riding numerous winners for South African maestro Mike De Kock, who also looks to have had a positive influence.
And with that image, comes responsibility by a lot of his home trainers after the bad-boy Belgian has become a mellow, mature and very very reliable big race jockey
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