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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:08:18 GMT
Doncaster going change After a dry night there has been a change to the ground on the round course at Town Moor, which is now good, good to Soft in places (from good to soft, good in places). The straight course remains good, good to firm in places. 2 hours ago.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:10:04 GMT
RACING NEWS.
Jumps trainer Paul Nicholls, who last sea- son won the trainers' championship for the eighth time, says that his main rival in this campaign could be Jonjo O'Neill. Nicholls highlighted the improved quality of the O'Neill team, who have also been buying lots of horses at the sales in the build up to the season. Bookmakers currently price Nicholls at 6/4 to win his ninth championship in a decade, while O'Neill is third-favourite, priced at 7/1. Nicky Henderson, champion trainer the season before last, is the evens-favourite with most bookmakers. French trainer Criquette Head-Maarek looks as though she has another leading prospect for victory on Arc day at Longchamp next month. Not only does her ace filly Treve bid to repeat last year's memorable victory in the feature race, but her promising two- year-old colt Full Mast holds a live chance in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere after romping to victory in the Group 3 Prix de la Rochette at Longchamp last Sunday. The Prince Khalid Abdullah-owned Mizzen Mast colt was described by his jockey, Thierry Thulliez, as having "a serious turn of foot". Arc ante-post favourite Sea The Moon was beaten on his final run before the big race, in the Group 1 Grosser Preis Von Baden at Baden-Baden racecourse in Germany. Ivanhowe, who most recently finished sixth in the Grand Prix de Chantilly beat the 1/2 favourite Sea The Moon by three lengths, which led bookmakers to push Sea The Moon out from 4/1 to 10/1 for the Arc, and promote Treve to favouritism at 4/1. Ivanhowe could head to the Arc, for which he is priced at 16/1. British-trained runners enjoyed success in Turkey last Sunday, at Veliefendi racecourse. Kevin Ryan's Glory Awaits, who finished second in the 2,000 Guineas last season, won the Group 2 International Topkapi Trophy, ahead of Richard Hannon's Toormore. The Hannon team didn't leave the meeting empty-handed, though, as Pether's Moon, winner of the Glorious Stakes at Goodwood last month, landed the Bosphorous Cup. Balthazar King, runner-up in last season's Aintree Grand National, retained his crown in the Listed cross-country chase at Craon, France, last weekend. Despite requiring several reminders from Richard Johnson on the final circuit, the 10-year-old King's Theatre gelding won comfortably enough. Trainer Philip Hobbs said Balthazar King may now wait for the cross-country chase at Cheltenham in November. Trainer David O'Meara and his stable jockey Daniel Tudhope jointly chalked up their first Group 1 winner when G Force landed the Group 1 Sprint Cup at Haydock last Satur- day. G Force, who was trained by Richard Hannon last season, was purchased for just 25,000gns at Tattersalls last October, hav- ing finished second on his only start to that point, in a Newbury maiden. Sharply pro- gressive last season, G Force improved for the step up to 6f at Haydock, having been held over 5f in the Nunthorpe previously. De- spite that, bookmakers have priced G Force at 5/1 for the 5f Group 1 Prix de l'Abbaye at next month's Arc meeting, with Richard Hannon's Tiggy Wiggy, winner of the Group 2 Lowther Stakes, current ante-post favourite, at around 7/2.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:10:53 GMT
STAT WATCH.
The featured races in our last column yielded a couple of winners, plus a second at 6/1, and hope- fully the stats can lead us to further winners this week. Channel 4 is broadcasting selected races on the Flat this Saturday, from Chester (2.20 and 2.55) and Doncaster (2.05, 2.40, 3.15 and 3.50.) In the battle for the jockeys' title, Richard Hughes made sizable inroads into the lead that Ryan Moore currently holds in the championship. Hughes rode 9 winners to Moore's 6, in the week ending Monday, 8 September, sandwiching William Buick's 8 winners. Moore led the way by strike rate, with his 30% putting him clear of next- best George Baker (25%). Richard Hannon topped the trainers' weekly stats, with 6 winners ahead of the 5 of Willie Haggas, although the latter's 24% strike rate was much better than Hannon's, if thoroughly shaded by the 44% and 33% of Roger Charlton and John Gosden, respectively. At Doncaster, the in-form Hannon team look as though they have a leading chance with Estidhkaar, in the 2.05, the Group 2 Champagne Stakes. The son of Dark Angel won at this level last time, and has a 100% record on the expected good-soft ground and over distance, and the sta- ble (albeit in the time when Hannon's father was the trainer) has won this race twice in the last three runnings. As already noted, John Gosden's string is in great order and their possible runner, Richard Pankhurst, could go well, having won over distance when a clear-cut winner of the Listed Chesham Stakes last time. The 2.40 at Doncaster is the competitive Portland Handicap, a valuable sprint race over 6f. Only one horse in the last ten years has won carrying more than 9st 6lb, so top-weights don't have a great winning record. Similarly, older, battle-hardened sprinters seem to do well, with no three-year-olds having won in this period, and only two four-year- olds have. Trainer Charles Hills saddled last year's winner, and his charge, B Fifty Two, has won three times over distance and twice from three starts on the ground, while Hills has the second-best record by wins at the course over the past five years, of those trainers with entrants in this race. Trainer David O'Meara has won this race previ- ously, and among a number of entrants, Out Do looks interesting, having gone well over course and distance previously (placed twice on two starts) and although now 3lb higher than winning a similar race last time, he could go well, providing the ground doesn't soften. The 3.15 at Doncaster is the Group 2 Park Stakes, in which Aiden O'Brien's Darwin looks a viable op- tion, having gone close over distance this season and was a good third in the Group 1 Sussex Stakes last time. Another to consider is John Gos- den's Gregorian, who won a Group 3 over distance this summer, was staying-on third in the Group 1 July Cup and a close second in a Group 2 over 7f last time. The winner of that race could run in this race, but would be 4lb worse off at the weights relative to Gregorian, thanks to a 4lb win-penalty. Doncaster's feature race is the St Leger (3.50). John Gosden has had three winners in this race in the past seven years, with Romsdal looking the likeliest of his three options in this year's race. Gosden has a great winning record at the course and is 33% with his runners in the past 14 days. Roger Varian's Kingston Hill has some of the best form, has won at the course previously, and on the expected good-soft ground. Varian also has a very good 25% strike rate at the course in the past five seasons. At Chester, the 1m 4f Listed race at 2.55 looks a good opportunity for Andrew Balding's Whiplash Willie, who went close over course and distance last time, and the stable won this race two years ago. Also consider trainer Charlie Appleby's Pinzolo, who has won at this level this season and, as a three-year-old, enjoys a useful weight concession.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:12:25 GMT
Race Ratings Saturday, 13 September - 3.50 Doncaster St Leger Stakes (Group 1) (Class 1) (3yo) 1m6f132y
11-824 Kingston Hill 70 3 9-1 Roger Varian Swerved intended run in the Voltigeur due to quickish ground and will probably be better-served by this step-up in distance, having been in the wrong position in a messy renewal of the Eclipse Stakes last time. Close second to Australia in the Epsom Derby reads well and could go well on forecast ground. RATING 100 278112 Alex My Boy 21 3 9-1 Mark Johnston Forecast good-soft ground should suit this son of Dalakhani who has twice won over 1m 6f this season, albeit at a much lower level. Has progressed in handicaps and posted career- best last time, when a close second in the Listed March Stakes at Goodwood. Possibly more needed here and maybe a little more ex- posed than some, despite continuous im- provement to date. RATING 96 8-2131 Forever Now 21 3 9-1 John Gosden Stable has fabulous record in this race, with three winners in the last seven renewals. Beat Alex My Boy in the Listed March Stakes, hav- ing made all and was still full of running at the close, although held by Hartnell and Winds- hear, when third behind those horses in the Group 3 Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket (1m 5f). Possible that quicker ground that day counted against him, and no surprise if he stepped up on that form here. RATING 97 615 Granddukeoftuscany 24 3 9-1 A P O ́Brien Was hit by a rival's whip last time, when a beaten fifth in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York, but didn't look a likely winner at that stage, and has more on his plate here. RATING 93 52116 Hartnell 24 3 9-1 Mark Johnston Stable's leading hope and wins in the Queen's Vase (Group 2, 2m) and Bahrain Trophy (Group 3, 1m 5f) suggest he has plenty of class. Might need a touch more to land this and profile took a hit when sixth in the Voltigeur last time, although he was arguably outpaced over the 1m 4f trip and may be bet- ter suited to today's increase in distance. Had a busy season and others may have more im- provement in them. RATING 97 51026 Kingfisher 24 3 9-1 A P O ́Brien Was second in the Irish Derby, but has appar- ently been confined to pace-making duties so far. Even so, despite being one of the few in this line-up with Group 1 form, and from a stable that knows the time of day in these races, he doesn't look an obvious winner of this race. RATING 96 41123 Kings Fete 21 3 9-1 Sir Michael Stoute Stable has a good record in this race and though generally progressive, is held by Forever Now and Alex My Boy on third in the Listed March Stakes last time. Looks the stable's second string behind Snow Sky. RATING 94 22354 Marzocco 24 3 9-1 John Gosden Winless since debut maiden success on sole start of last season. Has been running well in Listed and Group races this season. Was an unlucky two-length-third to Hartnell, having been bumped late on in the Queen's Vase, but was held in Grand Prix de Paris and Voltigeur Stakes on last two starts. Step up in trip might help, but others preferred. RATING 95 6215 Min Alemarat 27 3 9-1 Marco Botti One of the less-exposed horses in the race, and looked to have shrugged off greenness of early runs when an impressive winner of a 1m 4f, soft-ground maiden at Haydock in May. Short break followed until latest run, when a tiring fifth in a French Listed race (1m 5f). May have needed that run and could come to Don- caster in better shape, but has ability to prove, relative to several likely rivals. RATING 93 14743 Odeon 24 3 9-1 James Given Three-length fourth to The Grey Gatsby in the Dante Stakes reads well for this son of Galileo, and wasn't disgraced when third in the Voltigeur last time. However, he was beaten 10 lengths by the winner that day, with Snow Sky in second, and looks to only really hold place claims at best in this company. RATING 96 31237 Romsdal 49 3 9-1 John Gosden Epsom Derby-third followed a good second place (soft ground) at Chester, with the winner later finishing third in the Irish Derby. Has yet to run over further than 1m 4f, and cut in the ground might help, but has to overcome a dis- appointing run in the King George & Queen Elizabeth Stakes last time. RATING 97 1-4335 Scotland 45 3 9-1 Andrew Balding Held by Snow Sky on fifth place behind that winner in the Gordon Stakes last time (Wind- shear was a close second), but was staying on all the time, as he had in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot. Step up in trip could help and although he probably wouldn't want the ground to get any softer, he may be one for those looking for an each-way selection at a nice price. RATING 97 21412 Snow Sky 24 3 9-1 Sir Michael Stoute Won 1m maiden on heavy ground last season, before being beaten by Kingston Hill over the same distance in Group 1 Racing Post Trophy. Has improved since then, if only narrowly beat- ing the unlucky Windshear in the Gordon Stakes, but was keeping on when second in the Voltigeur Stakes last time. Should be on the premises, if lacking the ultimate win appeal of Kingston Hill. RATING 98 537335 Somewhat 28 3 9-1 Mark Johnston Probably flattered by third in the Eclipse Stakes, and looked held when third behind Snow Sky and Windshear in the Gordon Stakes. Possibly unlucky when attempting to make all in the Geoffrey Freer Stakes at Newbury last time, but doesn't look to possess the same class as some of his rivals here. RATING 96 212222 Windshear 45 3 9-1 Richard Hannon Has been staying on well in his last two starts, in the Bahrain Trophy and the Gordon Stakes, suggesting that the extra distance for this race will suit him well. Maybe has a little bit to find on form with some of these, but no surprise if he were to run a big race. RATING 99
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:14:00 GMT
DOUBLE UP.
This is a betting advice feature. Whilst there's no guarantee that this feature will make a profit, we will be doing our best!
We select one horse for Saturday and if it wins, you stake the full returns from your bet onto next week's DOUBLE UP horse. Then we will advise whether or not to 'double up' again or pull out and start afresh. The horse selected last week (PRINCE OF ALL) was not declared to run. THIS WEEK'S RACE IS: OBLG Park Stakes Scheduled for 3.15 Doncaster - Saturday, 13 September The selected horse is: DARWIN
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 9:18:17 GMT
A scintillating St Leger meeting at Doncaster comes to an end with another high class day’s racing. We’ve two great offers for the final day of this famous Flat festival.
The Portland Handicap is as competitive a sprint handicap as you will see this season and the St Leger is one of the toughest to predict in many years, with every horse in the race holding claims for the oldest Classic.
We are paying 5 places in the Portland Handicap (2:40 Doncaster) and 4 places in the St Leger (3:50 Doncaster).
All the best, The William Hill Team
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 20:20:11 GMT
Ryan Moore and The Grey Gatsby collared Australia in the final strides of the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown.
There had been two lengths between the pair when dual Derby hero Australia had been the impressive winner of the Juddmonte International at York.
It looked as if Aidan O'Brien's 30-100 favourite was bound for another Group One victory when striking the front inside the final furlong, but Moore had been stoking the Kevin Ryan-trained winner (7-1) along at the rear and swooped on Joseph O'Brien's outside to lead at the post.
The Grey Gatsby is a Classic winner himself, having collected the French Derby under an inspired Moore back in June.
He was one of those in no hurry during the early stages, as Australia's pacemaker Kingfisher and the Hamdan Al Maktoum pair Alkasser and Mukhadram formed a leading pack.
O'Brien was forced to go quite wide around the home bend, while Moore saved ground on the inner and used that momentum to take him on to yet another major success.
The winning trainer said: "Ryan went out with a plan. He thought they would go very hard, so he was going to hang on to him. I said to him that was Plan A, but if he had to revert to Plan B or C, so be it. You don't tell Ryan Moore how to ride.
"He's a great racehorse and I'm very proud of him. I've felt all along that he's never had the credit he deserves and if he doesn't now it will be unbelievable. The horse has done his own talking.
"Hughesie (Richard Hughes) said at York that Australia just got first run on him. On the day I don't think he would have beaten him, but Hughesie thought he would have been a lot closer and given him a harder race.
"Today we had him in a little bit better shape as we were always conscious of this race. Turning in I was thinking he had a lot of ground to make up, but in fairness to Ryan he was saving ground while Australia had to go wide. He made up the ground well and when he passed one and picked up, I thought he would go very close.
"He's a horse that has taken us on a great journey, both me and the owner. He'll stay in training next year and will get stronger and better. We'll hopefully have another great year.
"He won't go to the Arc. He could go to Ascot on Qipco day (Champion Stakes) and if he did that would be his last run. We'll start off next year in the Dubai Duty Free."
Moore said: "He ran a very good race in the Juddmonte, we knew Australia would be hard to beat but he had come on a little bit from York. The race set up nice for him and he really tries hard. He puts his head down and I think they pulled nine lengths clear, I'd say both horses have run very good races to pull that far clear.
"Every race you just have to see how it unfolds and it looked like they'd go fast. We planned to be patient and to have him where he's comfortable. The horse travels well, you give him a target and he'll chase it.
"When he won the Dante I really liked him, and when we went to France I thought he could run well but he surprised me with how well he won and I thought then this is a very good horse. He's proved it today." ===========================================
It was well worth the wait - and the anxious few days - as Kingston Hill finally had his moment of glory in the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster.
All week the 'will he, won't he run?' debate because of the ground potentially not being soft enough kept the favourite's supporters on tenterhooks, but connections took the plunge and the gamble paid off as the Derby runner-up landed the final Classic of the season.
Providing jockey Andrea Atzeni and trainer Roger Varian with first domestic Classic victories, Kingston Hill was returning in triumph to the scene of his Group One success in the Racing Post Trophy last October.
Punters kept faith with Kingston Hill, sending him off the 9-4 favourite, and j ust as Epsom third Romsdal moved to strike for Leger specialist John Gosden, he began his charge. Although he brushed past eventual third Snow Sky, forcing a brief stewards' inquiry, he was a length and a quarter on top at the post.
No horse had more left than Kingston Hill, who has run in all three colts' Classics having started his year off with an eighth in the 2000 Guineas but was making his first appearance since finishing fourth in the Eclipse at the start of July.
Varian said: "I can't put it into words. It's brilliant, it's a relief and exciting. It's an exciting thing to win a Classic and it's what we're all in it for. It's great for the horse. We've had a bit of heartache with him through the year. He came good on the day and Andrea gave him a brilliant ride.
"The plan was always to come with a long run down the outside as he's not a horse who quickens instantly. He's got a big, long stride and a long straight like this is ideal. I was a bit worried three out as I thought we might have a bit too much ground to cover, but he's stayed on well and shown his class.
"I'm delighted for the horse to win a Group One this year. He looked a Classic horse at the start of the year and he's won a Classic. I think the long nights and the dew have helped with the ground and also today being overcast, but I think it was quicker than ideal for him.
"First we have to get him home and see if he comes out of the race OK. He's not had a busy summer. Hopefully he's not finished this year.
"We'd have to consider the Arc if he came out of this OK. He's had a hard race today. He's got out to come of it well and we have to make sure he's 100 per cent. I think he deserves his chance."
Atzeni said: "I don't know what to say, it's a dream really. It's unbelievable. I rode him like the best horse in the race, he travelled beautifully. He's so laid-back, he goes to sleep. When I pulled him out he was always going to get there. He was just wandering about when he hit the front.''
Winning owner Paul Smith admitted being in tears, with more likely to come.
He said: "It hasn't sunk it yet. There will be a few tears tonight. There's been some already. It was nerve-wracking. It's a huge race. My dad (Derrick Smith) and Mike (Dillon, of Ladbrokes) have put a lot into it and it's just great to be here.
"He's been a bit unlucky with the ground this year, but we wanted to run him and he handled the ground fine. Andrea got one clean run with him on the outside and once he gets rolling he's mightily hard to get past."
Gosden, who had three runners in the race, said: "Romsdal finished his race really well and he was closer to the winner than he was when they met in the Derby."
Sir Michael Stoute felt Snow Sky had failed to see out the trip. He said: "I was pleased with Snow Sky, but to be honest I didn't think he quite got home and he'll be sticking to a mile and a half in future. I'd hope he'd be in training next year. The other horse (Kings Fete, who was ninth) definitely didn't stay."
Richard Hannon, trainer of the fourth home Windshear, said: "All he has done this year is grow and get stronger, so next year will be a big year for him."
There was drama before the start when Odeon was not allowed to compete, as he was still wearing the headgear he was only supposed to wear in the paddock. ======================================
Fiesolana gave Curragh trainer Willie McCreery his biggest winner to date when scooting through a gap in the Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes at Leopardstown.
Already a multiple Group scorer, and placed at the highest level in last month's Prix Maurice de Gheest, she quickened up at just the right moment for Billy Lee
Wee Jean was half a furlong away from causing an enormous surprise for the Mick Channon stable but first the 7-4 favourite and eventual runner-up Rizeena threw down a determined challenge before Fiesolana squeezed past Tapestry and on to glory by half a length.
McCreery, a former Gaelic footballer and now an emerging force on the training scene, said: "I'm overcome. What a horse and what a ride. I thought she wasn't going to get there, but she did. Billy was as cool as a cucumber and never panicked.
"Billy was brilliant on her. I said to him to miss the break today, as she had been breaking brilliantly, and he missed it lovely. They went a sensible pace and she got into a bit of trouble, but it probably came at the right time. Billy is a cool rider and I said to him I'd rather he was beat than come too early.
"You dream of this, but realistically it's a Group One with the likes of Tapestry in there.
"The Niarchos family had the faith to send her back to me (after buying the daughter of Aussie Rules for 960,000 guineas). It was a huge compliment and I'm glad I could repay them.
"I can't believe it and it's great for her and for me. Patrick Cooper said to Alan (Cooper) to keep her in training this season as she'd win a Group One but at the start of the year she had an infection and we didn't know if we would get her back.
"She's still improving. She's hard to get fit as she's a big, solid type. She'll go for the Prix de la Foret now, presumably."
Officially running under the banner of Flaxman Stables Ireland, the Niarchos silks were first past the post in the 2012 Matron through the David Wachman-trained Duntle, but she was to lose the race in the stewards' room to Sir Henry Cecil's Chachamaidee. =========================================
Estidhkaar continued his progression with a determined success in the At The Races Champagne Stakes at Doncaster.
The Richard Hannon-trained colt was second on his debut before winning a Newbury maiden and looked good in the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket, a race that has worked out well with runner-up Aktabantay landing the Solario Stakes.
Sent off the 10-11 favourite, it was not totally straightforward for Paul Hanagan's mount, who was quite free in the early stages behind the front-running Aces. It took a little time for the Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum-owned winner to reel in Aces and Belardo, but having asserted at the half-furlong pole he stayed on strongly from there.
War Envoy finished with some zest to take second for Aidan O'Brien, a length and a quarter in arrears.
It took an age for Hanagan to pull the son of Dark Angel up, and he said: "He's got a great temperament.
"It was a bit of a messy race and I could have done to have gone a bit quicker, but at the same time he hadn't run for a while so he was little bit fresh. The further he went the better, I couldn't quite pull him up.
"He's bang up there (among the top two-year-olds)."
Hannon said: "I think he could have been more impressive if they'd gone quicker. We've taken our time, with the intention to come here and then go for Dewhurst or possibly the Racing Post Trophy back here. Most likely he'll go to the Dewhurst.
"He is a lovely long-striding horse and you see he really sticks his neck out and tries hard for you. Paul had to get pretty harsh with him but that won't do him any harm, it will make him grow up and he will know that he's had a race today.
"The Guineas is the aim for next year."
Kevin Buckley, Coolmore's UK representative, said of War Envoy: "It was a slow pace to start with, then they went quick and fast.
"He would have preferred faster ground, but he stayed out the trip well which was encouraging - it was a step up from him as he'd been racing over six. After that it's not beyond the realms of possibility he'd stay a mile, but he needs to get his fast ground."
Aces stuck on for third, and trainer Charlie Hills said: "I'm delighted with that. It's only his second start and he's been beaten by more experienced horses. If we'd have had another run beforehand, maybe it would have been a different story but it's a great run.
"I'd like to run him again this season. We'll go back and see what's around but something like the Somerville Tattersall Stakes (at Newmarket)." =====================================
Ansgar gave Ireland a second consecutive victory in the OLBG Park Stakes at Doncaster.
Last year it was Eddie Lynam and Viztoria, and this time it was trainer Sabrina Harty who made a successful raid on Town Moor, and the 7-2 chance was given a cool front-running ride by James Doyle.
Better than ever at the age of six, Doyle had already partnered Ansgar for a recent Group Three success at Goodwood and they had just enough of an advantage by the line to thwart the charging 2-1 favourite Aljamaaheer by half a length.
Doyle said: "I was a little concerned at halfway as he must have changed his legs four or five times at that point and he's a horse that really needs to hear his feet rattle. But he's very, very tough.
"I could hear them all coming, but Sabrina and the team have done a great job with him. Pat Smullen also gave me some good advice about the horse."
Harty said: "It's a lucky place for us. We were delighted with Kalann yesterday (third in the Doncaster Cup) and this fellow is the real deal over seven furlongs.
"James said he would have won easier had the ground been quicker. He has a massive stride on him.
"There was nothing on Irish Champions Weekend for him except over a mile and he's better over seven.
"We'll just have to keep finding seven-furlong races for him and on good ground." ========================================
Muthmir showed an astounding mixture of speed and class in the Ladbrokes Portland at Doncaster.
After looking so exciting in winning at York, William Haggas' gelding had been an enormous gamble for the 32Red (Stewards') Cup at Glorious Goodwood but could only manage fifth.
It was not all easy for Paul Hanagan, as he stumbled badly on leaving the stalls, got stuck in traffic and was searching around for a gap. But once the jockey switched the 3-1 favourite into space approaching the final furlong he received an emphatic response and Muthmir came well clear of Bogart in the style of a sprinter bound for much bigger things.
Hanagan said: "Even before that (traffic problems) he actually stumbled badly coming out of the stalls and that's what started it all. I got into a gap and a horse came in on me and shuffled me back, but I was always travelling well to get out of trouble again.
"I think I heard he broke the track record, so that says it all."
Angus Gold, racing manager for winning owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, said: "So much went wrong. He went down on his knees at the gates. For a minute I thought he was going to go over his front.
"Then he went for a gap and it closed on him when the horses either side came in on him. I thought it would be a case of Paul having to drop his hands but he picked up and was pretty impressive.
"He's got a way to go yet to be like a Dayjur, but I can see why they (the Haggas stable) think he is so good, having had two setbacks so to speak in a race and win like he has there."
Haggas' wife, Maureen, said: "That was amazing after what happened at the start and in the race, but he has always been a nice horse. He travelled well and when he had to come round horses to make his challenge he was impressive.
"I thought the ground might be too loose for him, because he likes fast ground.
"After he won at York we had to go for the Stewards' Cup a week later which wasn't ideal. He was a bit buzzy that day but has really relaxed today.
"I'd think he'd run again this season, depending on the weather. He wouldn't want the ground any softer than good, so we will have to see what the weather does. He'll be a nice horse for next year, but he's in such good form that if the opportunity is there we will keep running him. He's getting better and stronger.
"You never know we could have a dry autumn all the way through to October. He's in the Ayr Gold Cup. We'll have to see. William is in Ireland and he'll probably have a plan in his head."
Speaking later at Leopardstown, Haggas ruled out an Ayr Gold Cup run. He told At The Races: "He impressed my wife very much, so he must have been impressive! I'm sure Goodwood was because he ran back so quickly after he won at York, and that's why he won't be going to Ayr next week.
"I've pencilled in a Listed race at Ascot on October 4, but the ground might go for him - he does need top of the ground."
Andrea Atzeni wasted no time in adding to his Ladbrokes St Leger triumph on Kingston Hill by steering home Mount Logan (7-4 favourite) in the Napoleons Casinos And Restaurants Handicap for in-form trainer Luca Cumani. The only three-year-old in the line-up, Mount Logan bounded away from his elders in the closing stages to score by two and a quarter lengths from Forgotten Hero, winner of the same race 12 months ago.
"The question now is whether we put him back up into Pattern class. He ran in the Autumn Stakes last year (won by Kingston Hill) and it was just too much for him at that time. He's really come to himself now, but he can get a little bit nervous before his races," said Cumani's son and assistant, Matt.
There was a sad postscript, however, as popular globetrotter Wigmore Hall was put down after sustaining an injury during the race, in which he was pulled up by Adam Kirby. Michael Bell's seven-year-old posted two Grade One wins in Canada and York's John Smith's Cup among seven career successes.
Dance Of Fire (7-2) made all the running as he followed up his maiden win in a two-horse affair to take the Agriargo UK Tractor Challenge Nursery Handicap by three-quarters of a length from Marshall Jennings in the hands of leading apprentice Oisin Murphy.
"His mark was fair enough after he beat just one horse last time. He's a lovely looking horse and hopefully he will go on next year," said trainer Andrew Balding.
The victory ensured 19 tickets in the Scoop6 would share the win fund of £2,915,158.
Hannon topped and tailed the card when supplementing Estidhkaar's Champagne Stakes success with Championship (14-1) under Richard Hughes in the Harriet De-Vere Powell Handicap. ========================================
John F Kennedy continues to look the part as he maintained Aidan O'Brien's domination of the John Deere Juvenile Turf Stakes at Leopardstown.
The grandly-named current favourite for next year's Investec Derby was following in the hoofprints of stablemate Australia, who claimed this Group Three event 12 months ago before marching on to Epsom glory.
Ridden by the trainer's son, Joseph, the 4-7 favourite still looked a little inexperienced but was far too good for runner-up Tombelaine.
Aidan O'Brien said: "You'd have to be delighted with that. He learned a lot from the first day and from the second day to today. He could go anywhere. We would be thinking of him maybe as a Dewhurst horse, but we'll have a think and see how he is. He has plenty of pace.
"We we're delighted with the way he behaved today. He came on lovely from the last day and he'll still grow up more. He's very exciting. Around the inside here it is tight and he had to learn a lot, and learn quick. It was great experience."
The son of Galileo is 7-1 favourite from 10-1 with RaceBets for the Derby and 10-1 from 16s for the Qipco 2000 Guineas.
Spokesman Joseph Burke said: "He came into the race with a very similar profile to Australia in that he was beaten on debut and won his second start. Both sons of Galileo then went on to record very impressive victories in today's race and it looks simply a matter of whether John F Kennedy can train on now to match Australia as a three-year-old."
Paddy Power make the winner 6-1 market leader for Epsom glory and 12-1 for the Newmarket Classic.
Tamadhor got the inaugural Irish Champions Weekend under way with victory in the Ballylinch Stud E.B.F. Fillies Maiden .
Kevin Prendergast's 5-1 chance had finished second in both her two previous starts at Galway and the Curragh, and stayed on stoutly in the final furlong to pass the long-time leader and 11-4 favourite Bocca Baciata.
Chris Hayes was in control of the race by the line, but newcomer Stellar Glow chased her up with an eyecatching late run.
Prendergast said: "She did it well from the draw. I think at the Curragh the ground was impossible for her and on good ground today she showed her true worth.
"She'll probably run in the C.L. Weld Stakes if the owner agrees and after that we'll see what happens." ======================================
Free Eagle made a quite stunning return to the racecourse after a year's absence in the KPMG Enterprise Stakes at Leopardstown.
Billed as a Derby horse for Dermot Weld as soon as he made his debut at this course in August of last year, he was then beaten six lengths by none other than Australia in the corresponding renewal of the John Deere Juvenile Turf Stakes.
That was Free Eagle's last start as he was sidelined with injury but he came back with a swagger as 9-10 favourite, with Pat Smullen sitting off the pace set by stablemate Rock Critic before cruising into the lead on the home turn and allowing his mount to stride seven lengths clear.
Weld said: "He did it very impressively. It's a case of what might have been, but such is life. He's come back nicely and we'll see how he comes out of it. He's very laid-back and it was difficult enough to get him as fit as I wanted for today, but he was pretty right. He should improve, naturally.
"He'll have one more run and the English Champion Stakes looks the logical race. He's entitled to a crack and that's the plan. He's just a very good horse and he's done it very very well. It's just a worry now that he stays sound and right.
"He had a stress fracture of his tibia in the spring and was stood in his box for 12 weeks. Today was the very first day that it was practical to run and it was the right race to bring him back in. Losing him was a huge blow but thank God he's back. Pat was thrilled with him."
Toe The Line got the better of a desperate finish to the Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. 'Petingo' Handicap.
A 7-1 chance for the respected John Kiely yard, the five-year-old mare has been in excellent form all year and was produced with delicate timing by Fran Berry.
Winter Lion tried to slip the field around the home turn but a whole host of challengers came to the fore inside the final furlong, with Toe The Line getting to the post a neck in front of Cassells Rock and Silwana.
Kiely said: "She's always been promising and showed a lot from day one. She's been unlucky once or twice. She ran well behind the Galway Hurdle winner at the Curragh and the trip was too short in Killarney.
"She'll probably stay on the Flat for a while. I thought she would be going jumping. They went a good gallop today which helped. The prize-money is high and it's a good day to have a horse for." ========================================
Bow Creek (7-1) was terrifically game to strike for the British raiding party in Leopardstown's Clipper Boomerang Mile.
Mark Johnston's colt, who made all the running in last month's Celebration Mile, had Leitir Mor to set the pace for him this time but was never far away for Joe Fanning.
The Dermot Weld-trained even-money favourite Mustajeeb loomed as a real danger but Bow Creek found a little more in the closing stages to grab the Group Two, while the popular Gordon Lord Byron was third.
Bow Creek had drifted markedly across the track at Goodwood before winning with a length and a half in hand.
Johnston said: "It's great to see him follow up his win last time. He would have been very unlucky to have got beaten at Goodwood and it's great to see what he can do today when he stays straight.
"It's a great prize and great to win another Group Two. I'd love to see him step up to a Group One now after getting two Group Twos in the bag.
"The idea was to step up to a Group One after Goodwood, but I was in Keeneland when the decisions were being made so credit to John Ferguson (Sheikh Mohammed's bloodstock advisor) for deciding to come here."
Johnston looked like following up when Almargo hit the front inside the final furlong in the Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. "Sovereign Path" Handicap, but he was grabbed in the dying strides by compatriot Baraweez (12-1) from the Brian Ellison stable. ==================================
German colt Sea The Moon will miss the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and the rest of the season after suffering a setback.
Quickly promoted to the nation's star horse after his startling victory in the German Derby, Markus Klug's representative met with a surprise defeat when only second to Ivanhowe in last weekend's Grosser Preis Von Baden but was still expected to be on course for Longchamp.
Niko Lafrentz of owners Gestut Gorlsdorf told the German website GaloppOnline that Sea The Moon would have to be treated for an injury and would not run again this year, but that it was hoped he would return for another season before retiring to stud.
This has caused a small change in the market, with Treve shortened to 7-2 favourite from 4-1 with William Hill, and Avenir Certain in to 7-1 from 8s.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 20:21:08 GMT
Wolverhampton, 13 Sep 14
Race 2 - 6:40pm THE BOOK HOSPITALITY AT WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, POLAR FOREST, ridden by Jason Hart and trained by Richard Guest, compared with its previous run at Wolverhampton on 29 August 2014 where the gelding finished eleventh of thirteen, beaten 19 lengths. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s improved form. They ordered POLAR FOREST to be routine tested.
Race 3 - 7:10pm THE BOOK HORIZONS RESTAURANT AT WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards considered the running of SCHOTTISCHE, ridden by Tim Clark and trained by Derek Haydn Jones, which was slowly away from the stalls, moved awkwardly and finished unplaced. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the filly’s performance. They ordered SCHOTTISCHE to be routine tested. The Veterinary Officer reported that an examination of the filly during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 7:40pm THE JULIA GAUTIER MEMORIAL HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Frederik Tylicki, the rider of AZRAG (USA), unplaced, reported that the gelding ran flat.
Race 5 - 8:10pm THE STAY AT THE HOLIDAY INN WOLVERHAMPTON MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) Jack Duern, the rider of BLUE VALENTINO, unplaced, reported that the gelding ran green.
Dougie Costello, the rider of GRAFFITI ART, unplaced, reported that the mare ran too free.
Non-Race related incidents The Starter reported that RED CURRENT, trained by Michael Scudamore, was reluctant to load. The trainer’s representative's attention was drawn to the restriction incurred under Rule (B)44 and informed that the mare could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
View Stewards Report Lingfield Park, 13 Sep 14
Race 1 - 2:00pm THE BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF MAIDEN FILLIES' STAKES (CLASS 5) (BOBIS RACE) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference approaching the 4 furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that VIVO PER LEI (IRE), placed third, ridden by Marc Monaghan, had interfered with REIGNING, unplaced, ridden by Liam Keniry. The Stewards found Monaghan in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he manoeuvred towards the rail when not sufficiently clear causing Keniry to check. They suspended him for 1 day as follows: Sunday 28 September 2014.
Race 4 - 3:40pm THE LAURIE GREEN MEMORIAL FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) William Muir, the trainer of LADY HORATIA, unplaced, reported that the filly ran flat.
Non-Race related incidents The Starter reported that FEARLESS LAD (IRE), trained by John Best, refused to enter the stalls. The trainer’s attention was drawn to the restriction incurred under Rule (B)44 and informed that the colt could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
The Starter reported that ELPIDA (USA), trained by David Simcock, refused to enter the stalls. The trainer’s attention was drawn to the restriction incurred under Rule (B)44 and informed that the filly could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
View Stewards Report Doncaster, 13 Sep 14
Race 1 - 2:05pm THE AT THE RACES CHAMPAGNE STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 2) Daniel Tudhope, the rider of GLENALMOND (IRE), placed sixth, reported that the colt hung right in the final two furlongs. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing showed the colt to be lame right-fore.
Andrea Atzeni, the rider of BELARDO (IRE), placed fourth, reported that the colt hung left in the final furlong.
Race 2 - 2:40pm THE LADBROKES PORTLAND (CLASS 2 HANDICAP) The Stewards noted that BOGART, placed second, had hung right approaching one furlong out and interfered with GOLDREAM, placed fourth, which in turn interfered with the winner MUTHMIR (IRE), but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved BOGART’s placing.
Joe Fanning, the rider of PEARL ACCLAIM (IRE), unplaced, reported that the colt hung right.
Richard Hughes, the rider of INTRINSIC, unplaced, reported that the colt was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing of the colt failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 3:50pm THE LADBROKES ST LEGER STAKES (CLASS 1) (BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES) (Group 1) The Stewards noted that the winner, KINGSTON HILL, had hung quickly left away from the whip inside the final furlong and interfered with SNOW SKY, placed third, and ROMSDAL, placed second, but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved KINGSTON HILL’s placing.
The Stewards held an enquiry to consider why ODEON, trained by James Given, arrived at the start wearing a hood which had not been declared and therefore had to be withdrawn. They interviewed the Starter, a Stipendiary Steward and the Trainer. Having heard their evidence they found James Given had allowed ODEON to leave the parade ring with his hood still on, in contravention of Schedule (B)4 - Equipment.
Race 5 - 4:25pm THE NAPOLEONS CASINOS AND RESTAURANTS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) The Stewards held an enquiry into the fall of Adam Kirby, the rider of WIGMORE HALL, just inside the three-furlong marker. Having viewed recordings of the incident the Stewards found that the fall was caused by the gelding sustaining an injury and unseating Kirby. Being satisfied that no other horse or rider was involved, the Stewards took no further action.
Kieren Fallon, the rider of HIGHLAND CASTLE, unplaced, reported that the gelding ran too freely. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 6 - 5:00pm THE AGRIARGO UK TRACTOR CHALLENGE NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (BOBIS RACE) The Stewards noted that MARSHALL JENNINGS (IRE), placed second, and SILVER QUAY (IRE), placed fourth, had interfered with SHAAKIS (IRE), unplaced, on the run to the line but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved either MARSHALL JENNINGS (IRE)’s or SILVER QUAY (IRE)'s placing.
They further noted that Kieren Fallon, the rider of SILVER QUAY (IRE), had to slightly ease in the closing stages to avoid clipping the heels of the winner, DANCE OF FIRE, which may have cost him third place.
The Stewards considered the running of JARGON (FR), ridden by Adam Kirby and trained by Michael Bell, which finished unplaced. They noted the trainer's representative could offer no explanation for the colt’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing of the colt failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7 - 6:05pm THE HARRIET DE-VERE POWELL HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Louis Steward, the rider of BRONZE ANGEL (IRE), placed second, from approaching the furlong marker. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he had used his whip above the permitted level. The Stewards suspended Steward for 2 days as follows: Sunday 28 and Monday 29 September 2014.
View Stewards Report Chester, 13 Sep 14
Race 2 - 2:20pm THE BETFAIR HOME OF THE PRICE RUSH HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Hayley Turner, the rider of CLOCKMAKER (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding ran too freely.
Ted Durcan, the rider of ACCESSION (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding stumbled on leaving the stalls and was slowly away.
Race 4 - 3:30pm THE GET BETTER ODDS WITH BETFAIR PRICE RUSH NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) (BOBIS RACE) Jack Garritty, the rider of PERARDUA, unplaced, reported that the race did not suit the filly in that she was forced wide throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 4:10pm THE BETFAIR SUPPORTS PRIDE OF RACING AWARDS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Stewards noted that ZUGZWANG (IRE), placed second, had interfered with ELLAAL, unplaced, who in turn interfered with EXCELLENT PUCK (IRE), placed third, shortly after the two furlong marker but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved ZUGZWANG (IRE)'s placing.
The Stewards noted that DUKE OF YORKSHIRE, unplaced, had interfered with TARO TYWOD (IRE), unplaced, who then interfered with KYLLACHY STAR, unplaced, who in turn interfered with SCOPPIO DEL CARRO, placed fourth, on the first bend but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.
Ted Durcan, the rider of EXCELLENT PUCK (IRE), placed third, reported that the gelding hung left.
The representative of Tim Easterby, the trainer of DUKE OF YORKSHIRE, unplaced, reported that the gelding was unsuited by the track.
Ruth Carr, the trainer of ELLAAL, unplaced, reported that the gelding had lost a front shoe.
David Probert, the rider of SCOPPIO DEL CARRO, placed fourth, reported that the gelding was never travelling.
Race 6 - 4:45pm THE BETFAIR SUPPORTS RACING WELFARE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, TYFOS, ridden by Jason Hart and trained by Brian Baugh, compared with its previous run at Haydock Park on 5 September 2014, where the gelding finished fifteen of sixteen, beaten 11 1/2 lengths. They noted the trainer’s explanation that the gelding was able to dominate on this occasion. They ordered TYFOS to be routine tested.
Non-Race related incidents The Starter reported that HEAD SPACE (IRE), trained by Ruth Carr, was unruly in the stalls and was withdrawn. The trainer’s attention was drawn to the restriction incurred under Rule (B)44 and informed that the gelding could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
View Stewards Report Bath, 13 Sep 14
Race 1 - 2:15pm THE FESTIVAL RACING NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) (BOBIS RACE) The Veterinary Officer reported that following an examination during routine testing FLASHY DIVA, unplaced, trained by Henry Candy, was lame on its left fore.
Race 2 - 2:50pm THE DISTINCTION PROPERTY SERVICES APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Veterinary Officer reported that TRADER JACK, unplaced, trained by David Flood, had lost its left fore shoe.
Jenny Powell, the rider of HAMOODY (USA), unplaced, reported that the gelding had clipped heels.
Race 3 - 3:25pm THE PROFAB WINDOWS FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference inside the final furlong. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that EDGED OUT, unplaced, ridden by Kieran Shoemark, had interfered with SHILLA (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Amy Scott. The Stewards found Shoemark in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding, in that he had allowed his horse to drift left without sufficient correction. They suspended him for 3 days as follows: Tuesday 30 September, Wednesday 1 October and Thursday 2 October 2014.
Amy Scott, the rider of SHILLA (IRE), unplaced, reported that the filly had suffered interference in running.
The Veterinary Officer reported that RANDOM SUCCESS (IRE), placed third, trained by Roger Charlton, had been heard to cough post-race.
Race 7 - 5:40pm THE EXPRESS GLAZING HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference at the furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that RUSSIAN ROYALE, placed second, ridden by Pat Dobbs, had interfered with STATSMINISTER, placed fourth, ridden by Fergus Sweeney. The Stewards found Dobbs in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding, in that he had allowed his horse to drift left without sufficient correction. They suspended him for 1 day as follows: Monday 29 September 2014.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 20:23:03 GMT
Wigmore Hall suffers fatal injury at Doncaster WIGMORE HALL, a dual Grade 1 winner and one of Newmarket's most widely travelled racehorses, has been put down after sustaining an injury at Doncaster this afternoon.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 13, 2014 20:23:30 GMT
McDonald taken to hospital PJ McDonald who was injured when Head Space went down in the stalls prior to the 5f handicap at Chester suffered an injury to his leg and was taken to the Countess Of Chester Hospital for further assessment.
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Post by banger on Sept 13, 2014 21:50:52 GMT
A recurrence of the injury suffered by Sea The Moon after his Deutches Derby win has ruled him out for the rest of the year. ![http://e0.365dm.com/14/07/768x576/christophe-soumillon-christophe-soumillon-sea-the-moon-hamburg_3169173.jpg?20140707082338](http://e0.365dm.com/14/07/768x576/christophe-soumillon-christophe-soumillon-sea-the-moon-hamburg_3169173.jpg?20140707082338) Christophe Soumillon and Sea The Moon. Trained by Markus Klug, Sea The Moon rocketed to the front of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe betting after blitzing his rivals by 11 lengths in the German Classic. But he proved disappointing when no match for Ivanhowe in the Group One Grosser Preis Von Baden and Niko Lafrentz of owners Gestut Gorlsdorf told the German website GaloppOnline on Saturday confirmed that Sea The Moon would have to be treated for an injury and would not run again this year, but that it was hoped he would return for another season before retiring to stud. Treve, who lines up in tomorrow's Prix Vermeille at Longchamp, heads the betting in her bid to win the Arc for the second year running at 4/1 with Sky Bet, ahead of 6/1 second-favourites Taghrooda and Australia.
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Post by banger on Sept 13, 2014 21:54:44 GMT
John F Kennedy is Sky Bet's new 7/1 favourite for next year's Investec Derby after comfortably scoring in the John Deere Juvenile Turf at Leopardstown. ![http://e0.365dm.com/14/09/640/horse-racing-day-one-leopardstown-racecourse-john-f-kennedy-tombelaine_3203649.jpg?20140913163003](http://e0.365dm.com/14/09/640/horse-racing-day-one-leopardstown-racecourse-john-f-kennedy-tombelaine_3203649.jpg?20140913163003) John F Kennedy is Sky Bet's new 7/1 favourite for next year's Investec Derby after comfortably scoring in the John Deere Juvenile Turf at Leopardstown. John F Kennedy is too good for his rivals in the John Deere Juvenile Turf Stakes. The grandly-named winner was following in the hoofprints of stablemate Australia, who claimed this event 12 months ago before marching on to Epsom glory. Ridden by the trainer's son, Joseph, the 4/7 favourite still looked a little inexperienced but was far too good for runner-up Tombelaine. The victory saw him cut from 10/1 to 7/1 for next year's Derby by Sky Bet and from 16/1 to 10/1 for the 2000 Guineas. Spokesman Michael Shinners commented: "There's a long way to go between now and next year's Classics, but this well-bred colt couldn't be in better hands." Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien said: "You'd have to be delighted with that. He learned a lot from the first day and from the second day to today. "He could go anywhere. We would be thinking of him maybe as a Dewhurst horse, but we'll have a think and see how he is. He has plenty of pace. "We we're delighted with the way he behaved today. He came on lovely from the last day and he'll still grow up more. He's very exciting. "Around the inside here it is tight and he had to learn a lot, and learn quick. It was great experience." John F Kennedy is too good for his rivals in the John Deere Juvenile Turf Stakes. The grandly-named winner was following in the hoofprints of stablemate Australia, who claimed this event 12 months ago before marching on to Epsom glory. Ridden by the trainer's son, Joseph, the 4/7 favourite still looked a little inexperienced but was far too good for runner-up Tombelaine. The victory saw him cut from 10/1 to 7/1 for next year's Derby by Sky Bet and from 16/1 to 10/1 for the 2000 Guineas. Spokesman Michael Shinners commented: "There's a long way to go between now and next year's Classics, but this well-bred colt couldn't be in better hands." Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien said: "You'd have to be delighted with that. He learned a lot from the first day and from the second day to today. "He could go anywhere. We would be thinking of him maybe as a Dewhurst horse, but we'll have a think and see how he is. He has plenty of pace. "We we're delighted with the way he behaved today. He came on lovely from the last day and he'll still grow up more. He's very exciting. "Around the inside here it is tight and he had to learn a lot, and learn quick. It was great experience."
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Post by banger on Sept 13, 2014 21:57:35 GMT
Superstar sprinter Black Caviar has safely delivered her first foal after giving birth to a filly by Exceed And Excel. ![http://e1.365dm.com/13/02/768x576/Black_2901534.jpg?20130216072706](http://e1.365dm.com/13/02/768x576/Black_2901534.jpg?20130216072706) Black Caviar: Safely delivered her first foal The eight-year-old retired after winning the TJ Smith Stakes at Randwick last April, bowing out with 15 Group One wins for trainer Peter Moody, including a famous success in the 2012 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot. She was subsequently covered by Exceed And Excel, a former top sprinter himself and the sire of the likes of multiple Group One winner Excelebration and leading Australian runner Helmet. "She did it all very naturally with very little assistance," part-owner Neil Werrett told Sky Sports Radio. "The filly is outstanding with two small white socks and a bit of white across the head. "We were lucky to arrive about five minutes before she started to give birth. "She (Black Caviar) is great. She has taken to it like a duck to water and the first thing she wanted to do afterwards was eat." Black Caviar's first foal would demand a high price in the sales ring but Werrett and his fellow owners are not interested in selling the progeny of their star performer. "Black Caviar was the people's horse and we are looking forward to sharing this filly's journey with the people of Australia," Werrett said. "It will be a long and patient road from birth to racetrack so at this time we are revelling in the excitement of being proud parents."
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Post by banger on Sept 13, 2014 22:25:01 GMT
Sunday: Going, weather and non-runners BATH GOING: FIRM (GoingStick 9.9)
WEATHER (Partly cloudy)
STALLS Sprint & 2m1f - Centre; Remainder - Inside
NON RUNNERS 5:25 Miss Minuty (6), 5:25 Quite A Story (9) CURRAGH GOING: GOOD TO FIRM (Watering round course)
WEATHER (Partly cloudy LISTOWEL GOING: GOOD (Good to firm in places) (Watering)
WEATHER (Mostly sunny) LONGCHAMP GOING: Turf: Good
FFOS LAS GOING: GOOD TO FIRM (GoingStick 8.3) (Watered)
WEATHER (Partly cloudy)
STALLS Sprint - Centre; Remainder Inside
NON RUNNERS 4:05 Every Time
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:45:14 GMT
17:50 Sunday 14th September Racing Tips - 14/09/2014
The opening sprint handicap at the Curragh is a super betting heat and there's nothing I want to back more than Zalty. His form is superb in both his course and distance 3rd to Line Of Reason and subsequent 4th behind Muthmir off this mark. Last time he was never involved in a race where it paid to be handy but a big field over this trip will suit. He's drawn 15 and, though there's not a lot of pace, there are front runners out of 10, 14, 15 and 18. 14/1 is very generous. The other that needs respect at 10/1 is Lady Mega who was unlucky in the Rockingham when short of room and finishing best from the rear. She put in an excellent time when winning an easier race last time out and is up just 5lb. Up in trip looks to be what she needs and the fact that there's not loads of pace may swing things in her favour. Curragh 14.05 - Zalty 1pt e/w Curragh 14.05 - Lady Mega 1pt e/w
Interesting that Joseph O'Brien chooses Guerre today over Fountain Of Youth but he has rarely ridden the colt, who has surprised the supposed first string before. He beat Extortionist last time out over course and distance when the latter did plenty of work early and the selection got the better tow into the race. I can see Olly Stevens' colt reversing the form but he's 9/2 and Fountain Of Youth is a whopping 12/1. I don't understand why, perhaps he'll be used as a pacemaker for Guerre but he's still a stupid price. Abstraction coming over from 1 to lead with Stepper Point should ensure the test he will need and his form at sprint trips reads 2141, with that 4 seeing him 1st of 13 that raced his side (the wrong side) in the Windsor Castle last year. Curragh 15.10 - Fountain Of Youth 1pt e/w
Tony Martin went close in a couple of big handicaps yesterday and I fancy his Artful Artist today at 8/1. The ground is the only issue but he has won on good and has been putting in some mark up performances on the flat. Hurdles never really suited but he won back on the flat last time when staying on from the back in a race where it looked to pay to be prominent. He couldn't quite overcome that problem at Leopardstown in June over 10 but this is his trip and he'll get a pace to chase today. Fran Berry is 2 from 2 on him and he'll make the frame as long as the ground is ok. Curragh 17.50 - Artful Artist 1pt e/w
I can't desert Wind Fire now having backed her on her last 2 runs and 12/1 is fair enough. She has little weight on her back and is well drawn to track Caspian Prince throughout. There's every chance she wants 6 but Gerald Mosse is a big plus and we haven't seen what she's capable of yet this term. She was the wrong side at Goodwood but flew home and the 2nd, 3rd and 4th in that went on to occupy those places in the Nunthorpe so it's impressive form. Also drawn badly at Sandown the run before but still only 2 and a half lengths behind the Nunthorpe 3rd, she has every right to go close here. Longchamp 12.30 - Wind Fire 1pt e/w
Rein Man
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:45:53 GMT
Tips Tables Naps table
NAPS TABLE PRESS CHALLENGE
TODAY'S NAPS TIME CRS TIPSTER LEVEL STAKES See And Be Seen 4:55 Bath Racing Post Postdata +37.83 Going French 5:40 Ffos The Irish Field Rory Delargy +18.42 Croquembouche 3:15 Bath Racing Post The Edge +17.53 Red Perdita 5:25 Bath Western Morning News West Tip +15.46 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath Racing and Football Outlook +11.29 Jalingo 3:15 Bath Racing Post The North +8.50 Fast Dancer 3:00 Ffos Glasgow Evening Times Jeffrey Ross +5.52 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath Racing Post Lambourn +3.09 Swan Lakes 4:05 Ffos Sunday Mirror Gary Nutting +2.46 Quick Touch 2:45 Bath Blackpool Gazette Steve Simpson -0.16 Here Now 3:30 Ffos Belfast Newsletter Wise Owl -2.21 Hoorayforhollywood 4:25 Bath The Sun Templegate -2.23 Perfect Cracker 3:15 Bath Weekender Paul Kealy -2.90 Fast Dancer 3:00 Ffos Racing Post RP Ratings -5.11 Teak 4:55 Bath Daily Telegraph Marlborough -9.44 Noor Al Haya 4:55 Bath Daily Mail Robin Goodfellow -11.73 Master Of Suspense 2:15 Bath Daily Post Mercury -15.17 Our Grey Lady 2:45 Bath Coventry Telegraph Derek Brown -15.75 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath Oldham Evening Chronicle Keith McHugh -16.23 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath Yorkshire Evening Post Lee Sobot -18.18 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath Daily Mirror Newsboy -19.60 Kings Chapel 2:45 Bath Liverpool Echo Chris Wright -20.17 Steeler 3:50 Bath Daily Express The Scout -21.84 Hoorayforhollywood 4:25 Bath Sheffield Star Fortunatus -22.29 Mahsooba 4:25 Bath Racing Post Newmarket -23.32 Flying Bear 2:15 Bath The Star Patrick Weaver -23.88 Royal Brave 2:15 Bath Sunday Mail Rockavon -24.14 Jalingo 3:15 Bath Daily Star Sunday Moorestyle -25.05 Castlemorris King 5:10 Ffos Yorkshire Post The Duke -25.31 Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath The Press, York Ebor -26.87 Quick Touch 2:45 Bath Sunday Telegraph Whistler -29.07 Golden Jubilee 5:10 Ffos Sunday Express Chris Goulding -31.69 Master Of Suspense 2:15 Bath Carlisle News & Star Phil Rostron -32.07 Code Red 3:00 Ffos Irish Post Karl Hedley -33.52 Le Maitre Chat 4:40 Ffos Racing Post Spotlight -35.44 Colour Catcher 3:00 Ffos South Wales Argus Melissa Jones -38.61 Le Maitre Chat 4:40 Ffos The Scotsman Glendale -38.65 Jalingo 3:15 Bath The Guardian -38.78 Quick Touch 2:45 Bath Morning Star Farringdon -49.76 Jalingo 3:15 Bath Daily Record Garry Owen -52.81 Spider Lily 5:40 Ffos The Times Rob Wright -56.58
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:46:11 GMT
W McCreery (Tylery Wonder) is having a profitable season (£55.50 to a £1 level stake) with runners at Curragh Tylery Wonder 2:05 Curragh
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:46:25 GMT
Rae Guest, trainer: MIRZA " “As he gets older he doesn't seem to need soft ground so much. He's in great form and it would be wonderful if he could emulate his mother again. He's drawn well and Frankie won on him at Deauville so it all looks good.” " Mirza 12:30 Longchamp
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:46:43 GMT
MOST TIPPED Fast Dancer 3:00 Ffos Las MOST TIPPED OUTSIDER Kernoff 2:05 Curragh MOST NAPPED Penny Pepper 5:25 Bath No betting MOST NAPPED OUTSIDER Kings Chapel 2:45 Bath
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:48:46 GMT
Today's Pointers Hot Trainers Trainer Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Races M R Channon 6 24 25.0 10 41.67 Today's entries Saeed bin Suroor 6 13 46.15 7 53.85 Today's entries M Johnston 5 39 12.82 11 28.21 Today's entries G Elliott 5 13 38.46 8 61.54 Today's entries J R Fanshawe 5 13 38.46 7 53.85 Today's entries R A Fahey 4 40 10.0 12 30.0 Today's entries A P O'Brien 4 35 11.43 9 25.71 Today's entries Richard Hannon 4 50 8.0 9 18.0 Today's entries J H M Gosden 3 19 15.79 7 36.84 Today's entries George Baker 3 16 18.75 6 37.5 Today's entries D K Weld 3 19 15.79 6 31.58 Today's entries C Hills 3 27 11.11 6 22.22 Today's entries C G Cox 3 12 25.0 4 33.33 Today's entries H De Bromhead 3 5 60.0 3 60.0 Today's entries W P Mullins 3 6 50.0 3 50.0 Today's entries K Prendergast 3 6 50.0 3 50.0 Today's entries Sir Michael Stoute 2 20 10.0 12 60.0 Today's entries R Varian 2 14 14.29 10 71.43 Today's entries D O'Meara 2 21 9.52 7 33.33 Today's entries C Appleby 2 11 18.18 6 54.55 Today's entries S Kirk 2 14 14.29 6 42.86 Today's entries A M Balding 2 23 8.7 6 26.09 Today's entries E A L Dunlop 2 10 20.0 3 30.0 Today's entries D H Brown 2 8 25.0 2 25.0 Today's entries A Oliver 2 11 18.18 2 18.18 Today's entries K R Burke 1 14 7.14 6 42.86 Today's entries P D Evans 1 12 8.33 5 41.67 Today's entries D R C Elsworth 1 5 20.0 4 80.0 Today's entries Eve Johnson Houghton 1 10 10.0 4 40.0 Today's entries B Ellison 1 12 8.33 4 33.33 Today's entries P F I Cole 1 4 25.0 3 75.0 Today's entries A McGuinness 1 4 25.0 3 75.0 Today's entries J G Portman 1 6 16.67 3 50.0 Today's entries J C McConnell 1 7 14.29 3 42.86 Today's entries M P Tregoning 1 7 14.29 3 42.86 Today's entries Miss S J Harty 1 3 33.33 2 66.67 Today's entries N A Twiston-Davies 1 3 33.33 2 66.67 Today's entries P Bowen 1 5 20.0 2 40.0 Today's entries J Gask 1 5 20.0 2 40.0 Today's entries W McCreery 1 5 20.0 2 40.0 Today's entries Sir Mark Prescott 1 6 16.67 2 33.33 Today's entries T D Barron 1 7 14.29 2 28.57 Today's entries S C Williams 1 7 14.29 2 28.57 Today's entries D M Simcock 1 14 7.14 2 14.29 Today's entries A J Honeyball 1 1 100.0 1 100.0 Today's entries J Butler 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's entries E Lynam 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's entries A L T Moore 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's entries M Murphy 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's entries Mr J Smart 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's entries T Collins 1 3 33.33 1 33.33 Today's entries N Meade 1 3 33.33 1 33.33 Today's entries J Tuite 1 3 33.33 1 33.33 Today's entries M Dods 1 5 20.0 1 20.0 Today's entries B W Hills 1 5 20.0 1 20.0 Today's entries J P Murtagh 1 5 20.0 1 20.0 Today's entries Tom Dascombe 1 6 16.67 1 16.67 Today's entries David Kelly 1 6 16.67 1 16.67 Today's entries J M Oxx 1 7 14.29 1 14.29 Today's entries =================================== Hot Jockeys Jockey Wins Rides Win % Place Place % Races James Doyle 6 26 23.08 15 57.69 Today's rides S W Kelly 5 18 27.78 11 61.11 Today's rides Andrea Atzeni 5 24 20.83 11 45.83 Today's rides G Baker 5 21 23.81 10 47.62 Today's rides R Hughes 4 33 12.12 9 27.27 Today's rides Dane O'Neill 4 19 21.05 8 42.11 Today's rides L Morris 4 22 18.18 5 22.73 Today's rides A Kirby 3 27 11.11 8 29.63 Today's rides R L Moore 3 22 13.64 6 27.27 Today's rides F Norton 3 15 20.0 5 33.33 Today's rides Charles Bishop 3 8 37.5 4 50.0 Today's rides Jim Crowley 3 11 27.27 4 36.36 Today's rides Freddie Tylicki 2 16 12.5 8 50.0 Today's rides L P Keniry 2 19 10.53 7 36.84 Today's rides William Buick 2 24 8.33 7 29.17 Today's rides J P Spencer 2 17 11.76 5 29.41 Today's rides Martin Dwyer 2 16 12.5 3 18.75 Today's rides R Winston 2 7 28.57 2 28.57 Today's rides Martin Harley 1 19 5.26 6 31.58 Today's rides D Tudhope 1 17 5.88 5 29.41 Today's rides William Twiston-Davies 1 19 5.26 5 26.32 Today's rides David Probert 1 12 8.33 4 33.33 Today's rides B A Curtis 1 13 7.69 4 30.77 Today's rides S Donohoe 1 21 4.76 4 19.05 Today's rides J P Fahy 1 5 20.0 3 60.0 Today's rides S Hitchcott 1 7 14.29 3 42.86 Today's rides S M Levey 1 12 8.33 3 25.0 Today's rides P Cosgrave 1 14 7.14 3 21.43 Today's rides P Mulrennan 1 21 4.76 3 14.29 Today's rides S De Sousa 1 22 4.55 3 13.64 Today's rides D J Bates 1 3 33.33 2 66.67 Today's rides Joe Doyle 1 7 14.29 2 28.57 Today's rides Sam James 1 7 14.29 2 28.57 Today's rides S J Drowne 1 12 8.33 2 16.67 Today's rides R Kingscote 1 13 7.69 2 15.38 Today's rides B J Geraghty 1 1 100.0 1 100.0 Today's rides W J Lee 1 1 100.0 1 100.0 Today's rides Rob Hornby 1 2 50.0 1 50.0 Today's rides R Ffrench 1 8 12.5 1 12.5 Today's rides ======================================== First-time Blinkers Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Our Folly b1 3 26 11.54 11 42.31 Bath 16:55 Flying Bear v1 3 15 20.0 6 40.0 Bath 14:15 An Chulainn v1 1 13 7.69 6 46.15 Flas 16:05 Master Of Suspense b1 1 6 16.67 3 50.0 Bath 14:15 ========================================= Tonguestraps Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race The Rectifier t 7 29 24.14 14 48.28 Bath 15:50 Tenor t 5 18 27.78 8 44.44 Bath 15:50 Dream And Search t 0 6 0.0 0 0.0 Flas 17:10 ============================================ Cheekpieces Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Teak p 7 44 15.91 19 43.18 Bath 16:55 See And Be Seen p 7 31 22.58 10 32.26 Bath 16:55 Drive On p 3 14 21.43 6 42.86 Bath 14:15 Bright Cecily p 1 7 14.29 3 42.86 Flas 16:05 Dubai Hadeia p1 1 5 20.0 1 20.0 Flas 16:05 National Service p1 1 9 11.11 1 11.11 Bath 14:15 Eileen Gray p1 0 3 0.0 0 0.0 Bath 16:25 =========================================== Course & Distance Winners Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Spic 'n Span 13 136 9.56 39 28.68 Flas 17:40 Hi Note 8 52 15.38 22 42.31 Bath 16:55 See And Be Seen 7 31 22.58 10 32.26 Bath 16:55 Boom And Bust 6 27 22.22 14 51.85 Bath 15:50 Croquembouche 6 29 20.69 13 44.83 Bath 15:15 Perfect Cracker 5 32 15.63 12 37.5 Bath 15:15 Dandy 5 23 21.74 7 30.43 Bath 15:15 Our Folly 3 26 11.54 11 42.31 Bath 16:55 Noor Al Haya 3 18 16.67 8 44.44 Bath 16:55 Le Maitre Chat 1 3 33.33 2 66.67 Flas 16:40 =========================================== Longest Travellers (328 miles) Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Special Fighter 2 9 22.22 3 33.33 Flas 16:40 An Chulainn 1 13 7.69 6 46.15 Flas 16:05 Water Thief 0 4 0.0 1 25.0 Flas 15:30 Resonant 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Flas 14:30 ========================================= Most Naps Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Penny Pepper 0 2 0.0 2 100.0 Bath 17:25 ======================================== Running Hot Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries Multiplex 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries Central Park 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries Vita Mia 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 Todays Entries 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0.0 ============================================ Money Talks Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Malabar 2 4 50.0 3 75.0 Cur 15:40 Kingsbarns 2 6 33.33 3 50.0 Long 15:25 Make On Madam 1 4 25.0 3 75.0 Cur 17:20 The Plan Man 1 11 9.09 3 27.27 Lst 15:20 ========================================= Switching Stables Horse Wins Runs Win % Place Place % Race Chicquita 1 1 100.0 1 100.0 Cur 14:40 Dream And Search 0 6 0.0 0 0.0 Flas 17:10 ========================================== Going and Stalls Meeting Conditions Bath Going : Firm Stalls : Sprint & 2m1f Centre, Remainder Inside Ffos Las Going : Good to Firm Stalls : Sprint Centre, Remainder Inside Curragh Going : Good to Firm (Watered) Listowel Going : Good, Good to Firm in places Longchamp Going : Good Scottsville Going : Good
Information correct at Sunday 14th September 2014 09:34
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:49:39 GMT
Kevin Blake's Irish Racing Tips: Expect Light to be Leading home the St Leger field
Kevin finally got the rub of the green and landed a good winner last Sunday, but he isn't satisfied with that and has been burning the midnight oil in search of winning selections at the Curragh this afternoon...
Looking Back
They say that if you keep knocking on the door, you'll eventually get an answer, and while in recent weeks I have felt as though I've been roaring at and booting the door without reply, the answer finally came at Dundalk last Sunday.
Kimbay was the selection in the sprint handicap and the biggest concern that those that followed me in had at any stage was the substantial pre-race drift. Having been backed from 7.0 into a general 4.5 throughout the day, she opened up on track at 4.0, but went for an absolute walk all the way out to a Betfair SP of 6.74.
I have no idea why she drifted so dramatically, but thankfully the filly wasn't influenced by the layers that were so keen to get her in the bag. Thankfully, from very early in the race, those that had taken her on would never have been confident of getting her beaten.
A bit like me and this column, Rory Cleary had endured a frustrating time, having not ridden a winner in a month and hitting no shortage of crossbars in that time. There are parallels between the psychology of sportsmen and betting men in that the difference between doing well and doing poorly in the long term can often be having the mental strength to stick to the plan and remain cool no matter how good or bad the recent results have been.
Cleary was under orders to take his time on Kimbay as she seen too much daylight on her previous start, but given how anxious any rider would be to ride a winner after enduring such a frustrating run of form, it is a testament to Cleary that he rode her with so much confidence, holding her together until hitting the front inside the final furlong and stretching on for an easy win. Given the air punch that Cleary unleashed crossing the line, I suspect he felt as much relief for getting back in the winner's bracket as I did with this column!
The second bet of the day was Art Scene in the mile handicap and unfortunately, we knew our faith early on. I strongly feel we won't see the best of this filly until she is able to make the running and while Pat Smullen seemed keen to execute such tactics, his mount just didn't have the early pace to get to the front. She again didn't travel overly well in tight quarters and had no more to give late on. She is a frustrating filly, but one that will win again when she gets things her way.
This Week's Plays
Today's card at the Curragh is a very high-quality affair and regular readers of this column will know that I am more at home betting in 0-65 handicaps than in Group 1s, but I hope I've found a couple that will prove profitable.
The Irish Stallion Farms EBF "Bold Lad" Sprint Handicap (14:05) is probably the most difficult handicap that will be run in Ireland all season, but I like a challenge, so here we go!
It's no secret, but the key here will be the draw. High numbers are always favoured to one extent or another on the sprint track at the Curragh no matter how far out the running rail is placed, but it is when they race hard up against the stand side as they will today that the bias is at its strongest. With that in mind, I am concentrating on those drawn in the highest third of the field.
Rightly or wrongly, I feel the key to this race could well be the Paddy Power Scurry that was run at this track over a slightly longer (63 yards) trip back in June. The form has worked out very well and the two that were involved in the finish there that are turning out again here are the David Marnane-trained Zalty and the Mike Murphy-trained Discussiontofollow.
I am very tempted to side with Zalty, as he was undoubtedly a bit unlucky in the Scurry, as he had a poor draw that day and absolutely flew home in the final furlong to finish a close second. The handicapper nailed him with 6lb for his trouble and things haven't gone quiet right for him in his two starts since.
He has a much better draw today and should have pace to run at, but I'm just worried that this slightly shorter trip could be his undoing. I think a strongly-run seven furlongs is his best trip and while he ran so well over just 63 yards longer than this in the Scurry, his poor draw allowed him to get into the clear in plenty of time to go through the gears, a luxury he is unlikely to get in the tight quarters that tend to prevail from a good draw when everyone wants to be close to the rail.
While he is very much a value price for those that wish to take a chance on him, I just can't put him up, as I can so clearly see things going wrong for him in my mind's eye.
Thus, it is Discussiontofollow that gets the nod. A really progressive four-year-old, he was a bit unlucky himself in the Scurry, as he was denied a clear run a couple of times until getting open air just under a furlong out and finishing well for a close third.
After that, he made a successful drop to five furlongs in a competitive handicap at Ascot, showing just how much speed he has by crossing from one side of the track to the other to win narrowly. Raised 6lb for that, he ran a stormer in the 32Red Cup (Stewards' Cup) at Glorious Goodwood last time, likely to have finished in the frame but for not getting into the clear until just outside the final furlong and then getting impeded inside the final furlong.
He is now a total of 9lb higher than he was in the Scurry (Zalty is 6lb higher), but with him having the perfect draw, with this slightly shorter trip being much more in his favour than in Zalty's and with British-trained handicappers continuing to do so well in Ireland, he is the recommended bet in the race.
For those are more inclined towards a shorter price selection, on a day where many of the favourites in the Group races look very solid, I feel Leading Light will be exceptionally hard to beat in the Irish St Leger (16:50).
He is a horse I have had a huge regard for from an early stage of his career and he has only gone up in my estimations this year. I have always thought that he has much more pace than he lets on, but he tends to hide it behind a shroud of laziness that often requires him to be scrubbed along quite a way out in his races. Mind, those that saw him bolt away to beat the thoroughly-smart Dibayani by seven lengths over 10 furlongs at Navan on just his third career start will know that the pace is in him.
While he successfully stepped up to the lung-busting distance of two-and-a-half miles for the Ascot Gold Cup in June, I honestly don't think he really got the trip, with pure class and guts seeing him home in front.
Thus, I was concerned that, like so many Ascot Gold Cup winners, that performance would leave a mark on him for the rest of the season. Hence, I was thrilled with his return from a break in the Irish St Leger Trial at the Curragh three weeks ago, as he travelled as smoothly as he ever has and won very well indeed. Given how lazy he is, one can be sure that he will tighten up from that run and will have the potential to do even better here if required.
This column is not in the habit of putting up horses at short prices, but any odds-against price for Leading Light represents value and I'll be very surprised if he is beaten.
Recommended Plays Back Discussiontofollow 1pts Win @ 8.0 or better - Curragh 14:05 Back Leading Light 2pts Win @ 2.0 or better - Curragh 16:50
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:50:28 GMT
After a busy Saturday in England and Ireland Betfair Ambassador Ryan Moore has dashed to France to ride in five Group races at Longchamp, and here you can read the star jockey's exclusive thoughts on each...
13:30 Longchamp - Prix Niel - Adelaide
I rode him to finish second here in the Hocquart back in May and he has gone on to prove himself a versatile and high class colt, winning his first Group 1 when taking the Secretariat Stakes in Arlington last month. In truth, that performance was probably only on a par with his earlier efforts, but he did it well and there could well be more to come from him. And he could be more tuned up than others in here, and good/fast ground suits him well. The improving Ectot and Grand Prix De Paris winner Gallante, who was two lengths behind Adelaide in the Hocquart, may be the two to beat.
14:45 - Prix Vermeille - Sultanina
Improving filly who followed up her second to stablemate Pomology in the Lancashire Oaks with a Group 1 win in the 1m2f Nassau Stakes on fast ground at Goodwood last time. There have probably been better renewals of that race - both the second and third have been well beaten since - but she could only beat what was put in front her, and that was only her fourth start, too. Stays 1m4f well, but clearly has plenty of pace, too. She and Pomology can't be ruled out obviously, but you have to suspect that we are playing for places if the Treve that we saw last year turns up.
15:25 - Prix Foy - Kingsbarns
Has obviously had his problems since looking so good as a juvenile, but he hinted at what he was capable of when a four length third to Olympic Glory in the QEII at Ascot last October. Hasn't run up to that level of form this season but improved on his reappearance effort when second in a 1m2f Group 3 on fast ground at the Curragh last time. Has his stamina to prove, though I very much doubt that this will be a strongly-run 1m4f and if he steps forward again then he could be competitive in this. Would ideally like a bit of give in the ground, though. Flintshire and Ruler Of The World would probably be the two to beat in here on their best form, but the recently-disqualified Grand Prix De Saint-Cloud winner Spiritjim comes into this race in better nick.
15:55 - Prix du Moulin - Night Of Thunder
Has the distinction of being the only horse to beat Kingman, and there is little doubt that he looked a top-class colt when seeing off that colt and Australia in the 2,000 Guineas. And he didn't lose anything in defeat when second to the same horse in the St James's Palace Stakes next time, when John Gosden's horse looked a world-beater. Whether or not it was the trip or just an off-day when he disappointed in the Eclipse last time, I don't know, but he if returns to his best then he obviously isn't out of this by any means, though the likes of Esoterique, Charm Spirit and stablemate Toronado are obvious dangers. In fact, I think the Hannon pair are the two to beat, though Bawina is an interesting improver, too.
16:25 - Prix Gladiateur - High Jinx
Is a very smart stayer on his day and has had a break since winning a listed race at Maisons-Laffitte in July. He probably didn't have to be at his best to win what looked an ordinary contest there but his overall form, which includes a second in the Cadran here last October, mark him down as a solid Group 2-class stayer and one who comes here in decent form. Probably has a decent chance in what looks a competitive race. The softer the better for him, though.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:53:01 GMT
Bell tribute Trainer Michael Bell (@mikebellracing): "Thanks for all the messages about Wigmore Hall. Absolutely loved being a racehorse and was a such a character. Cruel end to great career RIP."
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 9:53:27 GMT
Tweets Curragh latest Track manager Paul Hensey (@henseypaul): "The fog @curraghrace this AM is forecast to clear to a bright sunny day. The going is good to firm on both tracks." 2 hours ago.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:15:22 GMT
Trainer Tom Dascombe was full of praise for jockey Richard Kingscote after an enterprising ride aboard Brown Panther gave the pair their first taste of Group One success in the Palmerstown House Estate Irish St Leger.
Former England international footballer and part-owner Michael Owen was moved to tears when his pride and joy claimed Royal Ascot glory three years ago and there have been plenty of good days since, but this was undoubtedly his crowning moment.
Sent off at 14-1 having run consistently well in some of the season's top staying events, Brown Panther was positioned in second for much of the journey, with Kingscote the only rider keen to keep Ballydoyle pacemaker Eye Of The Storm within striking distance.
While Eye Of The Storm capitulated soon after the home turn, Brown Panther, perhaps to the surprise of the other riders, kept up the gallop remorselessly and the chasing pack never looked like reeling him in.
The star of Manor House Stables passed the post six and a half lengths clear of Ascot Gold Cup hero and odds-on favourite Leading Light, with Encke a close third.
Dascombe said: "Well, the first thing to say is he gave him a brilliant ride.
"It's just worked out today. We have been having a real lean time. We didn't manage to have a winner last week and I was close to pulling him out, but there aren't too many Irish St Legers so you have to run. The horse never lets us down.
"He won't go to Australia (for the Melbourne Cup). He'll go for the Champions race at Ascot (Long Distance Cup) if he's all right in the morning.
"We are thinking about giving him a few races in Dubai. He'll probably run for one more season.
"It's my first Group One winner and couldn't have come at a better time."
Owen said: "That was very special. He's the apple of my eye, as everyone knows, and he was pretty spectacular out there today.
"He's a superstar."
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:15:48 GMT
Treve's already perilous grip on Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe favouritism was firmly loosened at Longchamp as Criquette Head-Maarek's star could finish only fourth in the Prix Vermeille.
On an Arc trials day full of surprises, last year's Arc heroine was reunited with Thierry Jarnet for a prep race she won 12 months ago under Frankie Dettori, and travelled well enough at the rear of the field in the reasonably quick conditions for much of the way.
The four-year-old made progress wide into the straight, from where she held every chance.
William Buick, meanwhile, was still at the head of affairs on Pomology, as he had been from an early stage, and although Treve did make some ground to the furlong and a half point she was not given an overly hard time when her chance had gone.
Andre Fabre's Baltic Baroness sneaked up the rail and just came out on top from Pomology after quite a battle through the final furlong, and could be supplemented for the Arc.
Treve was eased with all the bookmakers for a repeat Arc success, with Taghrooda, Just A Way, Avenir Certain and Ectot all vying for market leadership.
Head-Maarek said: "The filly had a few problems and it might be that she is not the same filly as she was last year.
"She made a good effort, she gave weight away and finished not too far back and you have to remember that after the race in England (Prince of Wales's Stakes) she was literally stopped for a whole month (with a muscle problem), she was being walked.
"Personally I would like to see her in the Arc and I will do everything I can so she can be at the start of the Arc. I am hoping the ground will be a little bit softer.
"The decision shouldn't be made hastily, you have to see her again after the race.
"There might be some fine-tuning that can be done and she would be much better suited to it being softer."
Al Shaqab Racing supremo Sheikh Joaan Al Thani confirmed the intention remained to run Treve in the Arc.
He said: "Treve has proved that she is a great filly, she has nothing to prove.
" She is still staying in the Arc, nothing is going to change.
"She is a great filly, she won her Arc so I don't think there is a point in being disappointed."
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:16:20 GMT
Champions Day at Ascot is the likely next port of call for Australia following his shock defeat at Leopardstown on Saturday.
Aidan O'Brien's dual Derby hero and emphatic Juddmonte International winner was long odds-on to add another Group One prize to his collection in the Irish Champion Stakes, but York form was reversed as International runner-up The Grey Gatsby gained his revenge.
Australia could now head to Ascot, with both the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes over a mile and the mile and a quarter Champion Stakes under consideration on October 18.
O'Brien said: "Everything that could go wrong went wrong. He was handy and the pace was on and then the pace came back to him and he had to go to the outside of James Doyle's horse (Al Kazeem) and then he couldn't get back behind him. He ended up having to go early.
"The boys will decide where he goes next. Obviously there is Champions day, and they will decide whether it is the mile and a quarter race or the mile.
"He travels very strongly through his races and he did the same again yesterday, so I doubt he will go for the Arc."
The trainer's son Joseph has come in for some criticism for perhaps committing Australia too soon and the young rider is philosophical in defeat.
He told At The Races: "It's a great game. You have your ups and your downs.
"Australia ran a good race. Things probably couldn't have gone much worse for me and things probably couldn't have gone better for the winner.
"On the day I just got touched off, but we live to fight another day.
"I'd probably do it slightly different if I had it back again, but hindsight's a great thing and we live and learn and it won't happen again.
"I went very wide and plenty of things went wrong for me. It would be great if we could ride every race again, but unfortunately we can't.
"I'm really looking forward to wherever he goes."
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:16:44 GMT
Sheikh Joaan purchased a half-share in Ectot recently and was delighted to see an instant dividend as the Elie Lellouche-trained colt impressed many onlookers at Longchamp in taking the Prix Niel, renowned as the premier trial for the Arc.
The prolific three-year-old had been off the track since landing the Prix de Fontainebleau over a mile in April and was stepping up a full half-mile in trip.
Jockey Gregory Benoist settled his mount at the back and he made effortless progress when given his head in the straight, quickly swooping to the lead.
The lack of a recent outing was perhaps a factor as he began to tire in the final furlong, but he was ultimately well on top as he passed the post ahead of Teletext.
Aidan O'Brien's Adelaide, last seen winning the Secretariat Stakes in America, could be counted unlucky in third.
Lellouche said: "He was very fresh because he had not run in a while.
"If you have a good horse it can go over any distance and I was always confident he could run over a mile and a half.
"I always thought he was a very good horse and it was a good performance."
Benoist also has the option of riding unbeaten filly Avenir Certain in the Arc, potentially leaving Dettori to ride Ectot.
He said: "I have plenty of time to make my mind up."
Pascal Bary announced that Teletext would not be going for the Arc.
Dettori had recently lost the ride on Treve at Head-Maarek's request for Jarnet, but the Italian has found another Arc string to his bow in the shape of O'Brien's Prix Foy victor Ruler Of The World, in whom Sheikh Joaan also has a share, this time with Coolmore.
Last year's Derby winner was given a fine front-running ride from Dettori, comfortably accounting for Flintshire.
Dettori said: "If it was raining he would be knocking on the door (in the Arc).
"I don't know what I will ride, I am waiting for the others."
O'Brien was at the Curragh, where he said: "He should progress well and was only ready to go for the trial.
"I'd imagine the Arc is where he will go next."
On what was a stellar card, the Freddy Head-trained Charm Spirit was just too strong for Richard Hannon's pair of Toronado and Night Of Thunder in the Prix du Moulin. He could run in the QEII at Ascot next month or be put away for next year.
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:17:04 GMT
Charm Spirit denied Toronado in the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp.
Fifth in the Qipco 2000 Guineas and always held in high regard by trainer Freddy Head, he hugged the rail throughout under Thierry Jarnet as he raced in company with Richard Hughes on Toronado, immediately behind the pace-setting Mogadishio.
Jarnet got a perfect gap two furlongs out and his partner showed a taking turn of foot when asked to quicken.
Toronado pushed him all the way, but Charm Spirit held on well as Guineas winner Night Of Thunder, stablemate of the Richard Hannon-trained runner-up, finished strongly for third.
Hannon said: "Toronado ran a good race, Hughesie actually said that he might need further now. We will see where we go from here.
"We might have a look at further, but we will go home and have a look at it.
"Night Of Thunder ran a super race, right back to his best. He will probably stay at a mile, the ground was plenty quick enough for him."
Head said of the winner: "He is a horse that can go on any ground, he is very well balanced and is mentally very strong.
"He is a very good horse. He had a good race, he had to battle.
"I knew that my horse was well and he had progressed a lot. He has got better, physically he has changed a lot and he had worked well.
"Either we go to Ascot (QEII) or we don't run him again and wait for next year."
Rae Guest's British raider Mirza was a comprehensive winner of the Qatar Prix du Petit Couvert in the hands of Frankie Dettori.
The seven-year-old dead-heated for the Group Three prize in 2013 and returned to Paris in fine form following a victory at Deauville and a narrow defeat in the Beverley Bullet at the end of last month.
Having tracked the Tony Carroll-trained Caspian Prince early on, Mirza quickened up to lead against the rail at halfway and had plenty in reserve as he passed the post ahead of David O'Meara's Move In Time.
Guest said: "This is the second-last foal (of the mare) and he has won it twice now. Chris (Mills), the owner, has had the winner four times of this race.
"This year he has been going on good to firm ground, which before he couldn't handle but now that he is older everything is in the right place and we are very happy to run him on any ground.
"He is going to come back for the Abbaye and Frankie is going to ride him."
Mills said: "His mother (Millyant) won it twice and now he has won it twice.
"Last year we had to wait a long time for the result, this year is more decisive and hopefully we will be back here in three weeks. He seems to be handling the firm ground as he gets older."
Dettori said: "I've got an Abbaye ride! He likes these very sleek tracks. He has bags of speed and a kick as well. He travelled with the pace and when I quickened I put it to bed. I'm sure he will be taking on better horses in the Abbaye, but he'll be a good ride."
James Fanshawe's High Jinx ran a fine race to be third in the Prix Gladiateur.
The six-year-old led into the straight under Ryan Moore but was run down by the impressive Bathyrhon, before just losing second on the line.
Fanshawe said: "He ran very well, ideally he'd like a bit softer ground.
"All going well we'll come back for the Cadran.
"What was quite positive today was that the last time he ran in the Cadran he was hanging but he didn't do that at all today, so that was a good dress rehearsal."
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Post by Kimmy on Sept 14, 2014 18:17:30 GMT
Gleneagles could be bound for the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket after enhancing his reputation with a clear-cut victory in the Goffs Vincent O'Brien National Stakes at the Curragh.
Having already secured the Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown and the Futurity Stakes over this course and distance three weeks ago, Aidan O'Brien's Galileo colt was a warm order to strike at Group One level.
Settled last of the five runners as stable companion Toscanelli played the role of pacemaker, Gleneagles (1-3 favourite) had to be bustled up to take closer order in the straight, but Joseph O'Brien got the required response.
The youngster showed a smart change of gear to run to the lead and was driven out to claim victory by a length and a half, with Mick Halford's Toscanini best of the rest.
The winning trainer said: "He has plenty of speed and is probably a Guineas horse.
"He quickens very well, and could go for the Dewhurst."
Gleneagles is 14-1 from 16-1 for the Qipco 2000 Guineas with RaceBets. Ladbrokes are 14-1 about the Guineas and the Derby.
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