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Post by banger on Nov 18, 2014 20:36:33 GMT
Philip Hobbs is hoping Cheltenham Festival winner Fingal Bay can give him another big notable success in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday week. Fingal Bay: Hennessy hopeful The Minehead handler has started the season in excellent form, winning the Old Roan Chase with Wishfull Thinking and the Charlie Hall with Menorah before he dominated the Paddy Power meeting at Cheltenham last weekend with six winners. Fingal Bay has won eight of his 12 races but returned to hurdles last season after a bad experience at Exeter in December 2012, when he jumped violently left before running out and crashing through the rail. Connections found no explanation for that display, but Fingal Bay subsequently suffered an injury that kept him off the track until last February when he won at Exeter before going on to glory in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham. "He's in very good form, he's had four seasons and always won first time out. We're going to have to go straight for the Hennessy, which wasn't the plan originally, but we'll have to go straight there now," Hobbs told At The Races. "He's run in three chases. In the first two at Chepstow and Cheltenham he jumped brilliantly, but I still have no idea what happened at Exeter when he jumped badly one way and eventually ran out. "He hurt his tendon after that but that wasn't the reason he ran so badly - we just have no idea. "Since that he's come back and won at the Cheltenham Festival and he seems good. "After the Pertemps we went to Punchestown where he finished fifth in a Grade One and I thought it showed he's not at that level over hurdles, but he might be at that level over fences so the Hennessy is an ideal starting point. "He could be better over fences than hurdles which is why we are thinking Hennessy first as then we can go on to other things afterwards. I hope he can be."
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Post by banger on Nov 18, 2014 21:23:11 GMT
Neil Mulholland was thrilled with The Druids Nephew's performance at Cheltenham on Saturday despite having to settle for second place to Sam Winner. Sam Winner holds off the challenge of The Druid's Nephew to win the Murphy Group Handicap Chase at Cheltenham last weekend. A winner at Huntingdon on his first start for the yard, he was racing off a 9lb higher mark in a better class of race, yet he produced a career-best effort in defeat. That was his first run over a trip in excess of three miles, but he ran on gamely up the hill to be beaten just over a length and the Hennessy Gold Cup is now a possibility. "He came out of the race in good form," said Mulholland. "He's been put up 6lb today which means he's gone up just over a stone in two runs for us. "The Hennessy is a possibility. All he does is jump and stay. I was pleased he jumped straight on Saturday as he'd gone quite a bit to his left first time. "Now we know he stays those trips he's got options. He galloped up the hill well. "In time he could be a National horse but he's only young still so that doesn't have to be this year. "I've put him in the Welsh National and that's another three furlongs. I'm not saying he'll run in it, though. We've got to cross the Hennessy bridge first."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2014 21:29:25 GMT
Alan King believes Smad Place could develop into a Cheltenham Gold Cup horse in time as he gears up for his seasonal return in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury.
The seven-year-old was last seen when finishing second, beaten just a neck, in the RSA Chase at the Festival last March and he is among the leading lights for the Newbury feature on Saturday week.
Smad Place, who is set to carry 11st 6lb in the Grade Three event, engaged in some light work at the Berkshire venue on Tuesday morning, enjoying a canter with stablemate and fellow Hennessy hopeful Midnight Prayer.
King expects Smad Place to go well off his mark of 155.
He said: "If I've got a horse that could run in a Gold Cup, it has to be Smad Place. I feel he has strengthened-up a lot this season and given the impression that there could well be more improvement to come.
"He did everything but win (at the Festival) last season and was just run out of it at the line.
"Competing off his current mark, he would need to run well to earn a place in any Gold Cup field, but if we have a Gold Cup horse in the yard, he is the one.
"He's been placed on each of the three occasions he's been to the Festival.
"Off a mark of 155, he should go well. Wayne (Hutchinson) will probably ride."
King was a man to follow at the 2013 Hennessy Festival, netting three successes, and he could have a capable second string in Midnight Prayer, who was last seen winning the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham in March.
The Barbury Castle handler said: "Midnight Prayer often leads in his work at home and won over four miles so stamina is not an issue.
"He cantered a mile and six (furlongs) with Smad Place and they just breezed along. Neither had a hard blow when they came back.
"I think he's on a workable mark (141). He was very fresh and full of himself when he came off the lorry this morning.
"Bringing them here gets the adrenalin going and gives them something to think about on an away day."
Neil Mulholland is considering a crack at the race with The Druids Nephew after he finished second to Sam Winner at Cheltenham on Saturday.
A winner at Huntingdon on his first start for the yard, he was racing off a 9lb higher mark in a better class of race yet he produced a career-best effort in defeat.
"He came out of the race in good form," said Mulholland.
"He's been put up 6lb today which means he's gone up just over a stone in two runs for us.
"The Hennessy is a possibility. All he does is jump and stay. I was pleased he jumped straight on Saturday as he'd gone quite a bit to his left first time.
"Now we know he stays those trips he's got options, he galloped up the hill well." ====================================
Oliver Sherwood elected not to take Many Clouds to work at Newbury as the racecourse stepped up its publicity drive ahead of the big meeting a week on Saturday.
Explaining that the Trevor Hemmings-owned gelding had "done enough" in his comeback race at Carlisle, and would complete his Hennessy preparation at home, Sherwood said he was delighted with underfoot conditions he found on the track.
After watching Alan King's two Hennessy possibles, Smad Place and Midnight Prayer, engage in light work, Sherwood said: "He's just coming back from his Carlisle exertions and it wouldn't have been right to bring him here to work because I have him just where I want him.
"Carlisle and Towcester are the two stiffest tracks in the country and when we went to Carlisle I thought we might struggle to beat Eduard. I got that bit wrong, and was really pleased with our fella who has grown into a man and was just a teenager last year."
"I won't complain if it's proper winter ground, that would be fine. Carlisle was testing and we know he enjoys it.
"I always thought he was a Hennessy horse because years ago there was a spate of second season novices that came here and won the race. I think my horse has improved both physically and mentally and sometimes you find the handicapper hasn't caught up with this type of horse."
Casting his eye over the opposition, Sherwood concluded: "I respect Kingy's horse (Smad Place), while anything (Philip) Hobbsy brings you would have to take seriously. He could win with the yard cat right now!
"My job in the next week and a half is to make sure we get him here in one piece. Then it's up to Leighton Aspell and the horse to get the job done."
Hobbs is hoping Cheltenham Festival winner Fingal Bay can give him another big notable success.
The Minehead handler has started the season in excellent form, winning the Old Roan Chase with Wishfull Thinking and the Charlie Hall with Menorah before he dominated the Paddy Power meeting at Cheltenham last weekend with six winners.
Fingal Bay has won eight of his 12 races but returned to hurdles last season after a bad experience at Exeter in December 2012, when he jumped violently left before running out and crashing through the rail.
Connections found no explanation for that display, but Fingal Bay subsequently suffered an injury that kept him off the track until last February when he won at Exeter before going on to glory in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham.
"He's in very good form, he's had four seasons and always won first time out. We're going to have to go straight for the Hennessy, which wasn't the plan originally, but we'll have to go straight there now," Hobbs told At The Races.
"He's run in three chases. In the first two at Chepstow and Cheltenham he jumped brilliantly, but I still have no idea what happened at Exeter when he jumped badly one way and eventually ran out.
"He hurt his tendon after that but that wasn't the reason he ran so badly - we just have no idea.
"Since that he's come back and won at the Cheltenham Festival and he seems good.
"After the Pertemps we went to Punchestown where he finished fifth in a Grade One and I thought it showed he's not at that level over hurdles, but he might be at that level over fences so the Hennessy is an ideal starting point.
"He could be better over fences than hurdles which is why we are thinking Hennessy first as then we can go on to other things afterwards. I hope he can be." ====================================
More Of That pleased rider Richie McLernon in a canter at Newbury racecourse on Tuesday.
Winner of last season's World Hurdle, Jonjo O'Neill's charge travelled smoothly in a steady piece of work with a stablemate as he nears a return to racecourse action.
With Tony Mccoy still sidelined by injury, McLernon stepped in for the racecourse spin and was satisfied with More Of That's efforts.
He said: "We went steady enough on that wet ground.
"Last year proved how good he was. Beating the best Ireland has in Annie Power was as good as any horse had to offer. I'm sure the boss will have him ready when the time comes."
McLernon hit the bar in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham last Saturday as Johns Spirit was edged out by Caid Du Berlais and connections feel handicap company is no longer an option.
He said: "It was a massive run by Johns Spirit, I couldn't be happier with the performance and I know Mr O'Neill felt the same way.
"We've always thought highly of him, and on Saturday he proved with a top-class run that handicaps are out of the question now." ========================================
The Young Master will try to make the headlines for all the right reasons at Ascot on December 20 in the Mappin & Webb Silver Cup Chase.
Neil Mulholland's five-year-old hacked up in the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton but it transpired after the race he was not qualified to run having only had two previous outings over fences.
He was subsequently disqualified but the handicapper still handed a 14lb rise in the weights, though o ne silver lining for Mulholland was at least the Wincanton run counted as his third chase outing, despite him being disqualified.
"He'll go to Ascot on December 20 for a Listed Handicap with the same conditions as the Badger Ales," said Mulholland.
"We've also put him in the Welsh National.
"The Ascot race is over three miles, there's great prize money (£100,000) and is over five furlongs less, though, so that would be favourite.
"He's only a five-year-old so his future is hopefully ahead of him.
"Barry (Geraghty) gave him a great ride at Wincanton, he just hunted him round on the outside. He'd done that in the previous race and asked me if he could. I told him to do what he felt best and the horse would be there at the business end." ======================================
Trainer John Ferguson is looking forward to stepping up to Grade One company with Parlour Games following his latest success at Cheltenham.
The six-year-old showed he was a smart recruit from the Flat when running out a ready winner of the Grade Two Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle on Friday.
On the back of his four-and-a-half-length verdict over Blaklion, Parlour Games could now go for the Betfred Challow Hurdle at Newbury on December 29.
"Parlour Games has come out of his race really well and we'll consider the Challow for him at Newbury," said Ferguson. ====================================
Vautour, one of the most visually impressive winners of the Supreme Novices' Hurdle in recent years, could make his chasing debut over fences at Navan on Sunday.
The Willie Mullins-trained five-year-old is one of 25 entries in the Irish Stallion Farms Beginners Chase.
With owner Rich Ricci having an embarrassment of riches over hurdles this season with the likes of Annie Power and Faugheen staying over the smaller obstacles, Mullins took the bold step to send him over fences.
Given he is already favourite for the Arkle without having jumped a fence in public, it is clear plenty think it already the right call.
Mullins and Ricci won the corresponding race last year with Ballycasey.
Also entered is Pat Fahy's Western Boy, narrowly beaten by Vautour in a Grade Two novice hurdle last January and not disgraced behind him at Cheltenham.
Eddie Harty's Minella Foru and Henry de Bromhead's Viconte du Noyer, third to Gilgamboa on his chasing debut, are others of note. ===================================
Philip Fenton is set to appear before the Irish Turf Club at a hearing on Saturday morning.
Fenton was found guilty of possessing anabolic steroids and other banned substances last month after a box full of animal remedies was found at his yard during a visit by the Department of Agriculture in January 2012.
The trainer was fined 6,000 euros as well as being ordered to pay a further 4,200 euros in costs following a hearing at Carrick-on-Suir District Court, but the Irish racing authority will now consider what action it will take.
Denis Egan, chief executive of the Turf Club, told the Telegraph: "We're scheduled to go next Saturday, November 22, at 10.30. This is the referral as a result of the verdict in the district court at Carrick-on-Suir.
"We spoke to him a couple of times a fortnight ago, and he will come in for this. The committee will then decide whatever penalties are applicable." =======================================
Big Easy could make a swift return to action in Saturday's Betfair "This Is Play" "Fixed Brush" Handicap Hurdle after finishing second at Cheltenham last Saturday.
The Philip Hobbs-trained gelding won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket in October but just fell short when beaten two and a half lengths by Katkeau on his return to obstacles.
Owner Terry Warner reports Big Easy to be in good form after that run and has not ruled out a quick turnaround on Merseyside.
He said: "He ran very well but just got touched off. He was giving the winner quite a bit of weight so it wasn't so bad.
"He's come out of the race well so far.
"There's a possibility he might run next Saturday in the "Fixed Brush" Hurdle at Haydock, but the trainer was just going to see how the horse was.
"It might come a bit quick but it's a possibility."
Barry Geraghty thinks the three-mile race is an obvious target for recent Huntingdon scorer Volnay De Thaix.
He told At The Races: "This is one horse that has really grown and strengthened over the summer - a monster. I think the fixed-brush handicap hurdle at Haydock on Saturday is a very logical target under a 5lb penalty."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2014 21:30:31 GMT
Southwell, 18 Nov 14
Race 1 - 12:10pm THE coral.co.uk BEST ODDS GUARANTEED ON RACING HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Michael Appleby, the trainer of NELLIES QUEST, unplaced, reported that the mare did not face the kickback.
Race 2 - 12:40pm THE £20 RISK-FREE BET AT UNIBET NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards held an enquiry to consider the apparent improvement in form of the winner, MILADY EILEEN (IRE), ridden by Tony Hamilton and trained by Richard Fahey, which had never previously been placed. They interviewed the trainer's representative who stated that the filly was suited by running on Fibresand for the first time. Having heard his evidence they forwarded his explanation to the British Horseracing Authority so that the previous performances of MILADY EILEEN (IRE) could be reviewed. The Stewards ordered the filly to be routine tested.
Race 3 - 1:10pm THE UNIBET OFFER DAILY JOCKEY/TRAINER SPECIALS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Eoin Walsh, the rider of WALTA (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding was slowly away.
Martin Lane, the rider of SADIIGAH, unplaced, reported that the filly hung badly right on the bend into the home straight.
Race 4 - 1:40pm THE UNIBET OFFER DAILY JOCKEY/TRAINER SPECIALS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Michael Appleby, the trainer of MOPS ANGEL, unplaced, reported that the filly was unsuited by the Fibresand surface.
Race 5 - 2:10pm THE 32Red IRISH STALLION FARMS EBF MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) The Stewards noted that TOOFEEG (IRE), placed third, had ducked sharply right and interfered with the winner, MUNSTEAD PRIDE, approaching four furlongs out but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.
Race 7 - 3:10pm THE DOWNLOAD THE LADBROKES APP HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Racheal Kneller, the rider of PUTIN (IRE), placed second, reported that the gelding was slowly away.
Race 8 - 3:40pm THE LADBROKES HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Daniel Loughnane, the trainer of ROAD MAP (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding was unsuited by the Fibresand surface.
Non-Race related incidents The Stewards held an enquiry, adjourned from Wolverhampton on 31 October 2014, into the use of the whip by Jack Duern, the rider of LIGHTSCAMERACTION, placed second, in the final two furlongs of the 20 Risk-Free Bet At Unibet Nursery. 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. As the offence warranted a suspension of between 2 and 6 days and taking into account that this was the rider’s fifth such suspension within the previous 6 months the Stewards referred Duern to the British Horseracing Authority.
View Stewards Report Doncaster, 18 Nov 14
Race 2 - 1:20pm THE BETDAQ 50% COMMISSION REFUND JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The representative of Paul Nicholls, the trainer of ANNALULU (IRE), placed fourth, reported that the filly bled from the nose.
Race 3 - 1:50pm THE BETDAQ '£200 GAMES BONUS' NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Nick Scholfield, the rider of VIDE CAVE (FR), which was pulled up, reported that the gelding bled from the nose. They ordered VIDE CAVE (FR) to be routine tested.
Race 5 - 2:50pm THE BETDAQ NO PREMIUM CHARGE HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of BAILE ANRAI (IRE), placed fourth, trained by Dan Skelton, during routine testing found that the gelding had been struck into.
View Stewards Report Fakenham, 18 Nov 14
Race 5 - 3:00pm THE AT THE RACES MARES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Mikey Hamill, the rider of MY TREASURE, which was pulled up, reported that the mare was never travelling.
Sean Quinlan, the rider of CASH FOR STEEL (IRE), which was pulled up, reported that the mare was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 6 - 3:30pm THE COLLECT totepool WINNINGS AT BETFRED SHOPS CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) The Veterinary Officer reported that DYNAMIC IDOL (USA), trained by Gary Moore, which was pulled up, was lame on its left hind.
Nico de Boinville, the rider of CAROBELLO (IRE), placed third, reported that the gelding jumped poorly. The Stewards ordered the gelding to be routine tested.
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Post by banger on Nov 18, 2014 21:30:46 GMT
Wednesday: Going, weather and non-runners HEXHAM GOING: HEAVY (Bends will be moved & selected hurdles will be resited)
WEATHER (Mostly sunny)
NON RUNNERS 2:50 Morning Time (1) KEMPTON GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD
WEATHER (Partly cloudy)
STALLS 1m 4f - Centre; Remainder - Inside LINGFIELD GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD
WEATHER (Mostly cloudy)
STALLS 1m - Outside; Remainder - Inside WARWICK GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places; GoingStick: Chase 5.1, Hurdle 5.2) (Home bend and rail down the hill out 1yd adding approximately 3yds to circuit distance)
WEATHER (Cloudy)
NON RUNNERS 1:10 Ronnie Lawson (4) FAIRYHOUSE GOING: SOFT TO HEAVY
WEATHER (Sunny intervals)
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Post by banger on Nov 19, 2014 13:35:50 GMT
John Quinn is siding with a trip to Haydock for the exciting Aurore D'Estruval this weekend. John Quinn The four-year-old built on the promise of her inaugural season when hacking up by 10 lengths on her reappearance at Wetherby and now a potential clash with The New One in the Betfair Price Rush Hurdle beckons. The ex-French filly also holds an entry in the Coral Hurdle at Ascot, where she would potentially meet Willie Mullins' dual Grade One winner Faugheen, but she is set to head to Merseyside instead. "At the moment we are leaning towards Haydock," said Quinn. "She was very visually impressive at Wetherby and we were particularly pleased with her before the race. "The ground at Wetherby wasn't too soft but she won't mind a bit of cut wherever she goes." Should Quinn elect to bypass this weekend altogether, Aurore D'Estruval also holds an engagement in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday week, a race the Malton trainer landed with Countrywide Flame in 2012. "She is a filly so the Grade One at Newcastle is attractive for breeding purposes and it is a race we have done well in the past," said the trainer. A tilt at The Fighting Fifth would lead her down the same path as Cockney Sparrow, who finished second to My Tent Or Yours last year, before reversing form with that rival in the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr. Cockney Sparrow will not be making her reappearance before Christmas, though. "She is on the sidelines for the time being," he said, "She has picked up a few niggly injuries, but we will be bringing her back in for a spring campaign over jumps."
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Post by banger on Nov 19, 2014 17:18:04 GMT
Shark Hanlon expects Hidden Cyclone to improve for his first outing of the season in the John Meagher Memorial Chase at Thurles on Thursday. Hidden Cyclone: Thurles hopeful The son of Stowaway performed admirably in defeat when tackling ultra-competitive events last term, including when finishing second to Dynaste in the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. That performance saw him sent off favourite for the Champion Chase at Punchestown, but his race ended when he fell at the fifth fence, and Hanlon sees a clear round as a priority on his return to action in County Tipperary. Hanlon said: "The most important thing is that he puts in a clean round of jumping. "The horse is in good form and he's done a nice bit of work, but he will definitely improve for the run. "A target at Christmas appears to be the long-term plan, although the plan remains fluid at present. "There are some nice pots to go for at Christmas, which would include Leopardstown, but there are no set targets at the minute." Hidden Cyclone is the star turn among eight runners in Thursday's Listed feature. His closest rival on official ratings is John Ryan's admirable veteran Foildubh, while Home Farm makes his debut for Henry de Bromhead having previously been trained by Arthur Moore to finish third in the 2013 Irish Grand National. Leading owners Gigginstown House Stud are represented by Folsom Blue, trained by Conor O'Dwyer. Some Tikket, Letter Of Credit, Maggio and Sadler'sflaure complete the field.
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Post by banger on Nov 19, 2014 18:38:15 GMT
Goonyella is likely to line up in the Betfred Becher Chase at Aintree on December 6 for Irish handler Jim Dreaper after an encouraging second over hurdles at Punchestown last Sunday. Goonyella: Becher Chase hopeful The seven-year-old acquitted himself creditably in some of the biggest staying chases last season, including when eighth in the Welsh National in December and seventh in the Irish Grand National over Easter. He missed the cut for last year's Crabbie's Grand National by one after finishing second to subsequent Cheltenham Festival winner Don Poli in a Grade Three Novices' Hurdle over three miles at Clonmel in February. Dreaper, who as a rider finished second in the 1971 Grand National aboard Black Secret, reported: "All being well, Goonyella will go to Aintree for the Betfred Becher Chase. "He is fine after his run at Punchestown. Obviously, two miles and six furlongs is too sharp for him and he just got outpaced, but he stayed on well enough and it was a good pipe opener. "He needs three miles plus or even four miles plus if we can find it. We think he is the sort who will take the fences at Aintree. We would love to go for the Grand National but only if he takes to it. "There is a difference of opinion about going for the Grand National - some people feel your best chance is your first attempt whereas others believe you're better off with experience. "There have been many contradictive theories over the years and the results show there is no real pattern to it. I think you should treat each horse individually as it will either work or it won't. "All the big long distance handicaps suit him. The three and a quarter miles in the Becher will be OK as long as the ground is soft. Ideally, it's probably not far enough but we are more interested in having a look at the fences with a view to coming back for the Crabbie's Grand National." There are 47 entries for the Becher Chase (up from 43 in 2013) with the sponsor making Rocky Creek (Paul Nicholls), Chance Du Roy (Philip Hobbs) and Mendip Express (Harry Fry) the 10/1 co-favourites. Rocky Creek competed in the 2014 Crabbie's Grand National, finishing a fine fifth behind Pineau De Re, while Chance Du Roy captured the 2013 Betfred Becher Chase and finished one place behind Rocky Creek in the Crabbie's Grand National. Mendip Express is a lightly-raced eight-year-old but made an impressive seasonal reappearance when successful at Warwick on November 5. Monbeg Dude (12/1, Michael Scudamore) captured the Welsh National at Chepstow in January, 2013, and finished seventh in the Crabbie's Grand National for his owners the rugby players James Simpson-Daniel, Mike Tindall and Nicky Robinson. Also priced at 14/1 with Betfred are Balbriggan, who hails from the Grand National-winning stable of Gordon Elliott, Benvolio (Paul Nicholls), an eye-catching fourth on his seasonal reappearance in the Listed Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton and Scottish challenger Green Flag (Lucinda Russell), who put up his best effort last season when fourth in a Grade Three handicap chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Other eye-catching contenders Al Co (16/1, Peter Bowen) who captured last season's Scottish Grand National, and Mr Moonshine (20/1, Sue Smith), who was fifth in the Grade Two Betfred Monet's Garden Old Roan Chase at Aintree on October 25 and represents the same owner/trainer combination as 2013 Crabbie's Grand National victor Auroras Encore. Oscar Time (Robert Waley-Cohen, 25/1) was runner-up in the 2011 Crabbie's Grand National, while races over the Grand National fences are never complete without representatives from the Donald McCain stable and the Cheshire handler has entered Across The Bay (25/1), who was carried wide by a loose horse when leading the 2014 Crabbie's Grand National field, and Kruzhlinin (33/1), who was 10th in the Aintree spectacular.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2014 19:44:22 GMT
Gary Moore reports Sire De Grugy to be suffering from a hip problem following a bone scan of the two-mile star on Wednesday.
The eight-year-old carried all before him last term, notching up four Grade One victories including the Tingle Creek and Queen Mother Champion Chases.
He had been due to return to action at Cheltenham last Sunday but was found to be lame behind following a routine piece of work just days before the Shloer Chase, prompting fears of a pelvic injury or a fracture.
However, Moore has confirmed Sire De Grugy to be suffering a hip issue which will keep him on the sidelines for at least the remainder of 2014, ruling out a defence of his Tingle Creek crown.
The trainer said: "He's not fractured his pelvis or suffered a stress fracture or anything, but he does have a hot area in his hip.
"He's done some damage to his hip and I don't know if that's good or bad really.
"What happens now is that he spends the next month on the walker and then he will be rescanned.
"It's not the worst case scenario, but it's hard to tell the extent of the damage and we've never had anything like this happen before.
"He definitely won't be running in the Tingle Creek though and he won't run again this year." =================================
Willie Mullins is ready to unleash some of his big guns this weekend as the jumps seasons continues to get into full swing.
The trainer's hopes are headed by Faugheen as the Cheltenham and Punchestown winner makes his eagerly-awaited reappearance in the Coral Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday.
Ballycasey is set to miss the Amlin 1965 Chase there and stay nearer home for the Race That Stops A County 'Thyestes Chase Jan 22nd' Chase at Gowran the same day.
Vautour, another who was successful in novice hurdles at Cheltenham and Punchestown, is to make his fencing debut in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase at Navan on Sunday.
"Faugheen runs at Ascot and hopefully he's the horse that everyone says he is," said Mullins.
"Vautour will go to Navan on Sunday.
"Turban will go for the graduation chase at Haydock (on Friday) but Ballycasey will probably go to Gowran on Saturday instead of travelling over."
Mullins' stable jockey Ruby Walsh confirmed he will be at Ascot on Saturday.
"We have Vautour, Faugheen, a couple of good ones at Gowran Park as well on Saturday. Obviously, I'll be at Ascot," he told At The Races: "
"We have a good team for the weekend." ======================================
Star bumper horse Shaneshill made an impressive start to his jumps career with an easy win in the Fairyhouse Membership 2015 Maiden Hurdle at the County Meath venue.
The 2-11 favourite dispensed with the opposition as expected to cement his position as the 7-1 market leader with Paddy Power for the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival and unchanged at 10s for the Supreme.
Ruby Walsh had the Willie Mullins-trained Punchestown champion bumper winner handy as Luckynumberslevin set the pace before taking it up effortlessly at the final flight.
Wearing the colours of Andrea and Graham Wylie, Shaneshill was not hard-pressed to win by four lengths from Keppols Queen.
"I'm very pleased with that. He jumped very well apart from the third last, and given his bumper form he was entitled to do that," said Mullins.
"He could go back to two miles or up in trip, and he's certainly not restricted by trip. For his pedigree he handled the ground well."
Mullins had earlier struck with Outlander (4-9 favourite), who also looked good on his hurdles bow on his first start for 574 days.
The Gigginstown House Stud-owned six-year-old easily landed the odds in the Christmas Party Race Day On 20th December At Fairyhouse Maiden Hurdle.
Outlander cruised into the lead at the penultimate flight and only had to be pushed out by Bryan Cooper to score by 11 lengths from Mike McCann.
In third place was Blue Bicycle, the first runner for Sandra Hughes, who took over the licence following the death of her father Dessie over the weekend.
Mullins said: "He will probably go up in trip and I'd imagine the staying novice division will be his target.
"He jumped well and I was very pleased with that after such a long lay-off."
Outlander was introduced at 14-1 with Boylesports for the Neptune and at 12s for the Albert Bartlett.
Waxies Dargle (5-2) was a smooth winner of the Premier Jump Weekend November 29th and 30th Hurdle for trainer Noel Meade and jockey Paul Carberry.
The five-year-old jumped into the lead at the second last and soon put daylight between himself and his rivals to score eased down by two and a half lengths from Digeanta.
Meade said: "He was rated to win, and he was suited by the good gallop and soft ground. He jumps those (Easyfix) hurdles better than the other ones.
"I had thought about running him in the Greatwood Hurdle but he's rated 10lb higher in England than he is here."
Aengus (3-1) gave Meade a double when scoring under Carberry's sister, Nina, in the Follow Fairyhouse On Twitter INH Flat Race.
Broadway Twist (16-1) gave trainer Liz Doyle a present on her 39th birthday when landing the Fairyhouse Schooling Grounds Handicap Hurdle in the hands of Brian O'Connell.
"That was his first handicap and he travelled brilliant. Brian said he made a bit of a mistake at the last and he had to get after him, so he may have ended up in front a bit too soon," said her partner Barry Murphy.
Tipped Up Harry (5-1) was a ready five-length winner of the 25 Euro Punter's Pack Handicap Hurdle for trainer Denise Foster.
"I'm delighted for the owner Jules Sigler as he's won four times before but that's the first time that he's seen him win," she said.
"This horse is maturing and was very relaxed today."
Paul Nolan's Triplets Joy (7-2 favourite) battled on well for 3lb claimer Kevin Sexton to outstay long-time leader Mallards In Flight by a length and a half to take the Boylesports Irish Grand National At Fairyhouse Handicap Hurdle.
Nolan said "She was closing all the way to the line at Thurles behind Mrs Mac Veale, and she won yesterday so the form was good.
"She certainly handles the ground, and you can't beat toughness. I'd like to stick to mares races, and she jumps a fence well."
However, Sexton collected a three-day ban for using his whip with excessive frequency. ==================================
Ptit Zig continued his burgeoning career over fences with a second success in the space of a week when taking the Highflyer/Million In Mind 4 & 5yo Novices' Chase at Warwick.
Paul Nicholls' charge - a Grade One winner over hurdles in France last term - was sent off the 2-11 favourite and barely had to be shaken up to extend his winning advantage to 12 lengths.
Part-owner Barry Fulton said: "I thought he did it very well, but he is still learning and will be better when they go quicker.
"He has had two quick runs back-to-back so we will see how he comes out of this, but there is a race at Exeter in a couple of weeks (Harry Dutfield Memorial Novices' Chase) which is worth £20,000 that we may go for.
"The main thing is he has showed he can jump. He wasn't foot perfect, but we're very happy with him"
Nicholls said: "It was a small field, but they have to get experience and now we can step him up in grade."
Favourite backers enjoyed a successful afternoon with Maybe Plenty justifying her price with a 12-length romp in the racinguk.com Mares' Novices' Hurdle.
The five-year-old had shown promise when taking minor honours on her first outing at Uttoxeter and duly built on that display to score at odds of 2-1 from Triumph Davis.
Chac Du Cadran found it much tougher to justify his market position in the Dine In 1707 Restaurant Handicap Chase.
The 2-1 jolly was off the bridle for a long way in the three-mile-two-furlong test and required plenty of encouragement from Tom Messenger to win an attritional battle by a neck from The Last Bridge.
His rider subsequently picked up a 13-day ban (December 3-15) after the stewards found him guilty of excessive use of the whip.
Aso (4-1) caught the eye with a wide-margin victory after the well-supported Risk A Fine squandered his chance in the racinguk.com "National Hunt" Novices' Hurdle.
The favourite raced keenly throughout the early stages which played into the hands of Venetia Williams' French import, who pulled 15 lengths clear of Isaac Bell.
Williams told Racing UK: "We're really delighted with what he has done, the way he has jumped and the way he has picked up off what was a decent pace."
That race bore similarities to the closing David Nicholson Memorial Fillies' 'Junior' Standard National Hunt Open Flat Race where Lamanver Alchemy set off at a break-neck speed before she was reeled in by Lady Persephone (4-5 favourite), who scored by five lengths.
De Kerry Man relished a switch to the bigger obstacles when landing the Turf TV Novices' Handicap Chase by six lengths.
The Fiona Kehoe-trained gelding had placed between the flags in Ireland and stepped up on his hurdling form to oblige at odds of 7-1.
The winning rider Sam Jones said: "His jumping was very good."
"He ran in three point-to-points, but for a novice to jump like that first time round Warwick was very impressive."
The only tonic for the bookmakers on a day of short-priced winners was 20-1 chance Mont Royale winning for Jonjo O'Neill and Richie McLernon in the opening Warwick Racecourse Handicap Hurdle. =====================================
Sloane Avenue repelled the challenge of French raider Cladocera to claim the Listed Cash Out On The Betdaq App/EBF Stallions Hyde Stakes at Kempton.
Trained by Jeremy Noseda and ridden by Frankie Dettori, the three-year-old was allowed to go off at odds of 8-1 after finishing well down the field in a Grade Three event at Belmont Park last month.
Dettori kicked for home with a couple of furlongs to run and Sloane Avenue soon edged in front of long-time leader Graphic.
The Alain de Royer-Dupre-trained Cladocera was flying on the inside but the post came too soon, with Sloane Avenue holding on by a neck.
Graphic, who was sandwiched between the first two, was a half-length third with 6-5 favourite Captain Cat only fourth after failing to really pick up in the straight.
Sloane Avenue now has the option of running at next year's All Weather Championships Finals Day as this race was a fast track qualifier for the April 3 meeting. =======================================
Noel Meade still hopes to get Monksland back on the track by Christmas at the latest after a near two-year lay-off.
The seven-year-old has been sidelined since winning the Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown in December 2012 and the big Festival meeting there could be his starting point.
Meade wanted to have the three-time Grade Two winner ready to make his comeback in the Bar One Racing Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse at the end of November but faces a race against time following a setback.
"Monksland has been held up a bit with kissing spines, and might not be ready for the Hatton's Grace," said the Navan trainer.
"If not we'll wait for Leopardstown at Christmas. He's never had a leg but has just been held up with little things."
However, Meade reports Apache Stronghold to be on course for the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase on the same card.
"Apache Stronghold worked well this morning and all going well he'll go for the Drinmore Novice Chase," he said.
The six-year-old, who was runner-up to Vautour in the Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival in May, made a winning debut over fences at Down Royal three weeks ago.
Meade has the Bar One Racing Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at the big Fairyhouse fixture on Sunday week in mind for Rich Coast after last month's Tipperary winner had to miss an engagement recently.
"Rich Coast missed the For Auction with a bit of heat in one of his joints. The plan now is to go for the Royal Bond with him," said the trainer. =================================
Alan King will make a late decision on whether to let Medermit line up in Saturday's Betfair Chase at Haydock.
The Grade One-winning chaser was off the track for the best part of two years before returning in February, but showed he retains plenty of ability with a couple of sound efforts in defeat, most notably finishing fourth in the Punchestown Gold Cup.
He filled the same position on his seasonal reappearance in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby at the start of this month and King is contemplating whether to let him take his chance in the feature event on Merseyside this weekend.
King said: "Medermit is in at Haydock. I'll have a word with the owners." =================================
National Jockey Day is to be launched at Haydock's Betfair Chase meeting on Saturday to raise awareness and recognise the relentless and dangerous work jockeys do.
The initiative is being supported by online bookmaker Betfair, the Injured Jockeys Fund and Haydock racecourse. It has also received the backing of eight-times champion jumps trainer Paul Nicholls, and retired jump jockey Mick Fitzgerald, whose career came to an end when he broke his neck in a fall in the Grand National.
The average Flat jockey rides in 220 races per year, while the average jump jockey has 162 mounts.
Despite the long days at work, high skill levels and danger, the average wage for a jockey is £30,680 per year. Flat jockey race fees are set at £118.29 per ride, jump jockeys slightly more at £161.51.
Betfair spokesperson, Naomi Totten, said: "We feel jockeys are one of the hardest working athletes in sport and deserve a day where the nation supports their unwavering efforts.
"By partnering with the Injured Jockeys Fund, the hope is this year's campaign can go some way to giving back to an integral industry charity.
"We urge people to get involved and support the campaign and would also like to personally thank all our partners for their support of National Jockey Day."
People can support National Jockey Day by tweeting #NationalJockeyDay with £1 per tweet (up to £10,000) being donated to the Injured Jockeys Fund by Betfair.
Fans can also donate £5 by texting 'IJF' to 70800 on/or ahead of Saturday. ==================================
Linton could be disqualified from his third place in last month's Listed totescoop6 EBF Guisborough Stakes at Redcar after it transpired he was not qualified to run.
The disciplinary panel of the British Horseracing Authority will hold an inquiry on Thursday to consider an objection to the Marco Botti-trained runner on the basis that the gelding, having been conceived in the southern hemisphere, was not EBF (European Breeders Fund) eligible and was not therefore qualified by the conditions of the race to be entered or run.
The BHA will not take any action against Botti as he was wrongly advised by a device on the Racing Administration Site that his horse was qualified to run.
The issue is thought to have arisen as the horse was the progeny of two European domiciled parents - which under normal circumstances would have made the horse qualified for the race - but happens to have been conceived in Australia, which ruled out EBF races.
The BHA will consider disqualifying Linton but have confirmed all future entries of southern hemisphere progeny for EBF races will be manually checked to prevent such an instance occurring again.
This case follows hot on the heels of last week's disqualification of The Young Master, who won the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton only for it to later transpire he was not qualified to run. ====================================
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2014 19:45:59 GMT
Clare Balding and Willie Carson reunite to honour RoR Champions at inaugural RoR Awards Ceremony / 18 Nov 14 Retraining of Racehorses’ (RoR) Patron, Clare Balding OBE will reunite with her former TV partner, racing legend and Champion jockey Willie Carson OBE, to co-present the first ever RoR Award Ceremony at the historic Jockey Club Rooms at the home of racing in Newmarket on Wednesday 26 November 2014. Racing’s inimitable duo will preside over the prestigious RoR Award ceremony that is supported by The Jockey Club, the largest commercial group in British racing that invests all profits back into the sport. A total of seven trophies will be presented with prizes totalling £16,500 to this year’s RoR Elite Champions in Dressage, Showjumping, Endurance, Polo, Eventing and Showing. RoR are also delighted to announce the introduction of a new award at the first ever RoR Awards, the ‘RoR Horse of the Year Champion 2014’ sponsored by The Jockey Club. This award recognises the special achievements of a retrained racehorse adapting to a new career. The winner will be announced at the Awards ceremony and will be presented with The Jockey Club perpetual trophyas part of their sponsorship. The Jockey Club will provide the winner with Club Admission and Hospitality for two people on the Opening Day of the 2015 Cheltenham Festival meeting. The presentation of the Awards to a total of seven RoR Elite Champions and the addition of the new RoR Horse of the Year Champion, provides a focus for the thousands of former racehorses competing successfully in equestrian disciplines of Eventing, Dressage, Showjumping, Endurance and Showing and shows both the adaptability and versatility of former racehorses adapting to life after racing in new careers. RoR Chief Executive, Di Arbuthnot said: “We are looking forward to the RoR Awards and would like to say thank you to The Jockey club for supporting this event and also for their sponsorship of our new award for the RoR Horse of the Year. The RoR Awards ceremony provide an opportunity for the charity and its supporters to celebratethe tremendous achievements of our winners as well as the thousands of former racehorses now enjoying life after racing.” Simon Bazalgette, Group Chief Executive of The Jockey Club, said: “Retraining of Racehorses does an excellent job promoting the successful careers that many racehorses go on to have. The welfare of the sport’s equine stars once they retire from racing is very important. Governed by Royal Charter to act for the good of the sport, I’m delighted The Jockey Club is expanding its support for this worthy charity and I hope the new awards programme encourages more people to retrain and re-home former racehorses.” About RoR RoR is British horseracing’s official charity for the welfare of horses that have retired from racing. It raises funds from within racing to provide facilities for the care, retraining and re-homing of former racehorses, and to promote awareness of the suitability of the retrained racehorse for other equine careers. For more information visit www.ror.org.uk About The Jockey Club The Jockey Club has been at the heart of British racing for more than 260 years. Today the largest commercial group in the sport, The Jockey Club runs the largest racecourse group in the UK by turnover (2013: £158.7m), courses (15) including those at Aintree, Cheltenham, Epsom Downs and Newmarket, attendances (2013: 1.7m), total prize money (2013: £41.6m), contribution to prize money (2013: £18.24m) and quality racing (Group and Graded races); more than 3,000 acres of world-class training grounds in Newmarket, Lambourn and Epsom Downs; The National Stud breeding enterprise and education provider; and the charity for racing’s people in need, Racing Welfare. Governed by Royal Charter, every penny The Jockey Club makes it puts back into British racing. More information is available at www.thejockeyclub.co.uk. For further information please contact: Retraining of Racehorses (RoR): Sue Wallis, Pace Marketing T: 0774 8653338 E: suewallis@pacems.co.uk
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2014 19:46:58 GMT
Kempton Park, 19 Nov 14
Race 2 - 4:25pm THE GILLIAN NOBLE MEMORIAL NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference at approximately the two-furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that ALMAARDIYAH (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Frankie Dettori, had interfered with JERSEY BULL (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Liam Keniry. The Stewards found Dettori in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding, in that he had manoeuvred to his right taking Keniry off his intended line and causing him to check for several strides. They suspended him for 2 days as follows: Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 December 2014.
Race 3 - 4:55pm THE IRISH STALLION FARMS EBF MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 4) (BOBIS RACE) The Stewards noted that there had been interference between SONNOLENTO (IRE), placed second, and WHITE DOG (IRE), placed fourth, inside the final furlong, but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved SONNOLENTO (IRE)’s placing.
Robert Tart, the rider of WHITE DOG (IRE), placed fourth, reported that the colt hung left.
Race 5 - 5:55pm THE RACING UK ANYWHERE MEDIAN AUCTION MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) The Stewards noted that AZZIR (IRE), unplaced, had interfered with ROBINS PEARL (FR), unplaced, 2½ furlongs out but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.
Luke Morris, the rider of FALMOUTH HARBOUR, unplaced, reported that the colt moved poorly. The Veterinary Officer reported that following that a post-race examination the colt was found to be lame behind.
Race 6 - 6:25pm THE CASH OUT ON THE BETDAQ+ APP/EBF STALLIONS HYDE STAKES (CLASS 1) (Fast Track Qualifier) (Listed Race) Sean Levey, the rider of EMELL, unplaced, reported that the colt hung left.
Chris Wall, the trainer of PREMIO LOCO (USA), unplaced, reported that the gelding had a breathing problem.
Race 7 - 6:55pm THE BETDAQ 50% COMMISSION REFUND HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Adam Kirby, the rider of NOBLE GIFT, placed sixth, reported the gelding hung badly right. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 8 - 7:25pm THE BETDAQ COMMISSION FREE FOOTBALL ON SATURDAYS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The Stewards held an enquiry to consider why Martin Harley, the rider of COINCIDENTLY, had been slow to remove the blindfold resulting in his horse being slow to start. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the start they accepted his explanation that the filly had sat back in the stalls causing a slightly slow removal of the the blindfold.
Non-Race related incidents In race 3 the Starter reported that DONETSK, trained by William Jarvis, refused to enter the stalls. The trainer’s attention was drawn to the restriction incurred under Rule (B)44 and he was informed that the colt could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
View Stewards Report Lingfield Park, 19 Nov 14
Race 3 - 1:00pm THE CORAL APP DOWNLOAD FROM THE APP STORE MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference from turning into the home straight. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that SEA REBELLE, unplaced, ridden by Pat Cosgrave, had interfered with GHANY (IRE), placed third, ridden by Silvestre De Sousa. They found the interference was accidental.
Pat Cosgrave, the rider of SEA REBELLE, unplaced, reported that the mare moved poorly in the straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 1:30pm THE LADBROKES HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference inside the final half furlong. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that MON CIGAR (IRE), placed second, ridden by Pat Cosgrave, had interfered with GHOST TRAIN (IRE), placed fourth, ridden by Luke Morris, who then interfered with SHIFTING STAR (IRE), unplaced, ridden by William Carson, who then interfered with OSTRALEGUS, unplaced, ridden by B A Curtis. The Stewards found Cosgrave in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he allowed his mount to drift left. They suspended him for 3 days as follows: Wednesday 3, Thursday 4 and Friday 5 December 2014.
Philip Hide, the trainer of BLACK CAESAR (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding had a breathing problem.
Race 5 - 2:00pm THE UNIBET HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) The Stewards held an enquiry into the running and riding of DIAMOND LADY, ridden by Robert Tart and trained by William Stone, which was ridden tenderly up the straight to finish fifth, beaten 3 lengths. They interviewed the rider and the trainer. They also received a report from the Veterinary Officer, and observations from the Handicapper. The rider stated his instructions were, if possible, to ride the horse in a prominent position and do his best, but as it was a quick pace he was happy to remain in mid-division. However, turning into the home straight he suffered interference and felt the filly momentarily lose her action, a fact he reported at Scales. Consequently, he decided to look after her and was not hard on her in the closing stages. The trainer stated his instructions were to be prominent and to finish in the best possible placing but was satisfied with the ride. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race the Stewards noted their explanations.
Adam Kirby, the rider of AMADEUS WOLFE TONE (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding was denied a clear run.
Race 6 - 2:30pm THE DOWNLOAD THE LADBROKES APP HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Robert Havlin, the rider of STRATEGIC ACTION (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding hung right.
View Stewards Report Warwick, 19 Nov 14
Race 3 - 1:40pm THE racinguk.com MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Stewards considered the running of MISTRESS MOLE (IRE), ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies and trained by Paul Nicholls, which faded rapidly in the home straight. They noted the trainer's representative could offer no explanation for the mare's performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 2:40pm THE racinguk.com 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Tom O'Brien, the rider of HE'S A BULLY (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding ran too free.
Race 6 - 3:10pm THE DINE IN THE 1707 RESTAURANT HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Tom Messenger, the rider of the winner, CHAC DU CADRAN (FR), during the final circuit. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he used his whip above the permitted level. The Stewards suspended Messenger for 13 days as follows: Wednesday 3 December to Monday 15 December 2014 inclusive.
View Stewards Report Hexham, 19 Nov 14
Fixture Note Due to waterlogged ground Fence 7, the last fence before the back straight, will be omitted in all steeple chases.
Race 2 - 12:50pm THE AT THE RACES NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, MOYODE WOOD, ridden by Danny Cook and trained by Brian Ellison, compared with its previous run at Carlisle on 10 November 2014 where the gelding finished last of five, beaten 64½ lengths. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s improved form, other than that MOYODE WOOD was possibly suited by the heavy ground and an uncompetitive race.
Joanne Foster, the trainer of HOUNDSCOURT (IRE), which was pulled up, reported that the gelding was unsuited by the heavy ground. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 1:50pm THE NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Dougie Costello, the rider of SILVER DRAGON, placed second, from approaching the final fence. 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 Costello for 2 days as follows: Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 December 2014.
Dougie Costello, the rider of SILVER DRAGON, placed second, reported that the gelding hung right throughout.
Race 7 - 3:20pm THE DURHAM CCC ROYAL LONDON CUP WINNERS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Stewards considered the running of VOYAGE A NEW YORK (FR), ridden by Wilson Renwick and trained by Lucinda Russell, which finished unplaced. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
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Post by banger on Nov 19, 2014 19:55:22 GMT
Thursday: Going, weather and non-runners CHEPSTOW GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places; GoingStick: Chase 5.3, Hurdle 5.5) (Both bends set at an average of 6yds from the innermost line adding approximately 40yds to races up to 2m4f and 60yds to 3m races)
WEATHER (Showers) KEMPTON GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD
WEATHER (Showers)
STALLS Inside MARKET RASEN GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places in home straight on chase course; GoingStick: Hurdle 6.2, Chase 5.9) (Hurdles and fences moved onto fresh lines)
WEATHER (Rain) WINCANTON GOING: SOFT (Good to soft in places; GoingStick: Chase 6.6, Hurdle 7.1) (2nd chase fence (open ditch) back straight will be omitted due to false patch of ground on landing side)
WEATHER (Showers) THURLES GOING: SOFT
WEATHER (Sunny intervals)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 7:16:53 GMT
RYANAIR CHASE runner-up Hidden Cyclone returns to action at Thurles today on a mission to put his Punchestown fall behind him before his big target at Leopardstown over Christmas. ============================
Martyn Meade and Kristin Stubbs each saddle their first runner in France in the lead-off leg for a sustained Anglo-Irish challenge for a trio of Listed prizes on the card.
Meade is operating at a better than one-in-four strike rate with his juveniles and is hopeful that Fligaz can add to the success of Irish Rookie in the Montrose Stakes at Newmarket earlier this month.
"Fligaz ran really well in the Bosra Sham when second to Terror and she should like the soft ground," said Meade. "The French style of running ought to suit her because she has a turn of foot and, when she won at Goodwood, she was behind before going through a pretty small gap and quickening away."
Remarkably Fontainebleau's downhill, dogleg sprint course didn't feature among 18 starts for Something Lucky when trained in Chantilly by Matthieu Palussiere, before being bought by Malton-based Stubbs at the Autumn Horses in Training sale at Newmarket.
"He worked nicely on the track on Tuesday which helps because it's quite a strange course," said Stubbs, who brings regular collaborator Tom Eaves over for the ride.
Amy Weaver doesn't officially become a Chantilly trainer until next week but both she and Silver Treasure have plenty of experience of France ahead of the three-year-old's challenge for the 6f Prix Contessina (1.50pm), in which the classy Catcall must give plenty of weight all round.
Weaver said: "He has been a little too free in his races and I hope dropping him back in trip should suit him. He was third in a Listed race on this card last year so he has a bit of course form."
Spinatrix earned promotion to Listed company when winning the valuable Coral Sprint Trophy at York in October and the Michael Dods inmate followed that up with a third-placed effort in the Wentworth Stakes at Doncaster.
Numerically the strongest raiding party is reserved for the Prix Ceres (2.20pm) over 7f of the slightly less demanding round course. Witches Brew has been a model of consistency for Edward Lynam at this level but is yet to tackle ground this testing.
Charles O'Brien has no such fears for JP McManus's lightly-raced Iveagh Gardens, who was narrowly beaten in a German Listed race on only her third start.
O'Brien said: "She likes it as soft as possible so conditions should suit although I think this is probably a better race than when she was second in Hannover."
Jeremy Noseda's Moonvoy and the Silvester Kirk-trained Nakuti also take their chance in the 18-runner line-up.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 11:00:58 GMT
JAMIE SPENCER has revealed his contract riding for Qatar Racing was not going to be renewed at the end of the season, which in turn led to his decision to retire from the saddle.
The racing world was stunned in August when the news broke that Spencer would end his career at the end of 2014, although he is staying within Sheikh Fahad Al Thani's Qatar Racing outfit in a new management role.
In his second season as retained rider for Qatar Racing, speculation mounted as to how Spencer's retirement had been determined, and speaking to The Times, the jockey said: The story is that I was told my contract wasn't being renewed for next year. You wouldn't be human if that didn't come as a shock, but there has been no fall-out. Sheikh Fahad and I still speak every day. I've really enjoyed working for him. I get him and he gets me."
Andrea Atzeni was swiftly signed up as Spencer's replacement, providing immediate success when delivering Qatar Racing a first domestic Group 1 with Elm Park in the Racing Post Trophy.
International meetings in the Caribbean and Hong Kong will provide the 34-year-old Spencer with his final rides in the saddle before his career takes a new path, and he added: "There's no sense disguising it's a difficult time but, in my mind, I'm stopping riding."It doesn't sit easy but that's how life is. Nothing lasts forever."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 11:02:12 GMT
Popular grey Teeton Mill dies aged 25 POPULAR grey Teeton Mill, who won both the Hennessy and King George VI in 1998, has died at the age of 25.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 11:02:47 GMT
Tweets Latest from Thurles HRI Racing (@hri_Racing) tweeted: "The ground at Thurles today remains soft (3mm rain since declaration time)." 2 hours ago
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Post by banger on Nov 20, 2014 17:21:09 GMT
Godolphin launch a two-pronged challenge on the £14,000 32Red Conditions Stakes (12.55pm) at Lingfield Park on Saturday, November 22, with Four Seasons and Super Kid lining up in the first Fast-Track Qualifier in the Three-Year-Old category. William Buick riding Portamento at Goodwood A field of seven has been declared for the seven-furlong contest, with the winner gaining an automatic place in the £150,000 32Red.com Three-Year-Old Championships back at Lingfield Park on Good Friday, April 3. Four Seasons made an impressive Polytrack debut at Kempton Park when he defied top-weight to post a facile win in a seven-furlong nursery handicap. The two-year-old Dubawi colt ran well in a pair of nursery handicaps at Doncaster and York and captured a six-furlong maiden in testing conditions at Leicester in May. Trainer Charlie Appleby commented: "It was a very pleasing effort from Four Seasons at Kempton Park last time. Adam Kirby was very complimentary afterwards and said that the horse picked up well on the surface. "His work on synthetics has always been nice. He was one of the two-year-olds that we had ready for Royal Ascot and a lot of his work early on in the season was on an all-weather surface. "He has come out of the Kempton race in really good nick and we are confident that he is going to be very competitive on Saturday. "The aim is to qualify him for Good Friday and hopefully he can do that in this race. He has already got one All-Weather run under his belt this season and, if he doesn't win at Lingfield, we can always try and get one more run into him to qualify." Super Kid makes his first start since readily beating stable companion and subsequent Group Three winner Maftool in a six-furlong maiden at Epsom Downs in July. Faraajh, the sole filly in the race, is unbeaten on Polytrack, having posted a pair of successes in nursery handicaps at Wolverhampton, while Qatar Road readily scored on his first run on Polytrack at Kempton Park last month. US-bred Fieldsman is aiming for a hat-trick of wins on his Polytrack debut following a pair of turf victories at Brighton and Epsom Downs. The field is completed by course and distance scorer Rattling Jewel and Vimy Ridge. Appleby is also aiming to qualify the 100-rated Portamento, a three-time winner on turf and Polytrack, for the new £150,000 Unibet Three-Year-Old Sprint Championships on Good Friday. The trainer added: "Portamento will be aimed at the Three-Year-Old Sprint Final and we are looking at running him at one of the Fast-Track Qualifiers at Wolverhampton on December 6. "He did well in the latter stages of the turf season and is strengthening up nicely. He is proven on the synthetics, having won at Lingfield, and is showing an abundance of speed in his work. "We are going to keep tapping away with some horses in Britain over the winter to try and get a few teed up for Good Friday."
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Post by banger on Nov 20, 2014 19:31:42 GMT
Barry Geraghty rides Taquin du Seuil after all nine six-day acceptors were declared in the final field for Saturday's Betfair Chase at Haydock. Menorah, Taquin du Seuil and Medermit - all clash again at Haydock. Jonjo O'Neill's charge is looking to avenge his Charlie Hall Chase defeat at the hooves of Menorah at the weekend and the first and second from that Wetherby race are joined again in the field by Double Ross (third), Medermit (fourth), Silviniaco Conti (fifth) and The Giant Bolster (seventh). Both Taquin Du Seuil and Silviniaco Conti will wear cheekpieces for the first time in a bid to aid their concentration. Last year's winner Cue Card (Daryl Jacob) is towards the head of the market along with Dynaste who chased him home in 2013 and subsequently won the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham. Harry Topper, winner of the Charlie Hall and Denman Chase last season, makes his reappearance and completes a high-class field. He had been due to make his seasonal reappearance in the Charlie Hall Chase but missed the race due to the ground not being soft enough. His trainer Kim Bailey reported: "I am very happy with Harry Topper and he will be going to Haydock Park in very good nick. "He was all ready to go at Wetherby and so we are desperate to get a run into him. Ideally, a more galloping track would suit him but he has to start off somewhere. "It looks like he will have his ground at Haydock though and any further rain would suit us."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 19:38:48 GMT
While only the first two days of Cheltenham’s Paddy Power Open Meeting fell into the last racing week there was still plenty to get the teeth into and the first major handicap chase of the season produced a thrilling finish. He’s our take on it… Quite the Caid
The Paddy Power Gold Cup is one of the most competitive handicap chases of the season and there was a good mixture of old favourites and “new blood” in the race this year, writes Mark Olley.
Despite being only a seven-year-old Johns Spirit falls firmly into the former category, certainly in my eyes. Jonjo O’Neill’s gelding won this race from a rating of 139 last season but was back this time on the lofty figure of 156, which was due to his demolition of several reopposing rivals at Cheltenham last month. He travelled beautifully into the race and when he burst to the front over the last fence I thought he would join the likes of Cyfor Malta and, one of my all-time favourites, Bradbury Star as a dual winner. However, it wasn’t to be as Sam Twiston-Davies coaxed a devastating late run from Caid du Berlais to snatch victory virtually on the line.
With the value of hindsight, and being ultra-critical, Johns Spirit probably went for home a shade too soon, but there is no disgrace in just failing under 11-12 and being beaten by a fast-improving young chaser. That is especially the case when you consider that Caid du Berlais now has a Fred Winter second, a Martin Pipe third and a Paddy Power win from his three visits to Cheltenham.
My new figures are 148 for Caid du Berlais (up 5lb) and 160 for Johns Spirit (up 4lb) and it will be interesting to see which route they now take with Johns Spirit as he has surely earned a try in graded company. He has tackled 3m on several occasions without convincing but is stronger and better than ever at present and his current rating is only 5lb below that of last season’s Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere.
The next three home – Present View, Oscar Whisky and Buywise – are all second-season chasers and they all excelled themselves. I particularly liked the effort of Present View (up 2lb to 146) as he made much of the running and was the only horse to race prominently to still be involved come the finish. He is the flag bearer for Jamie Snowden’s yard and I will be amazed if there aren’t some big races to be won with him.
Buywise also merits a mention as he was beaten little over three lengths into fifth in spite a poor round of jumping. He started 2014 winning a handicap at Ludlow from a rating of 102 and has done nothing but progress since. Hopefully he will have learned from this and could be another exciting prospect. Summer lovin
There seems a common perception that horses handicapped on their summer form become uncompetitive once the bigger yards come out in force at this time of year, writes David Dickinson.
Recent Saturday handicap hurdles can hardly have reinforced such a view, however, with successes for the John Ferguson-trained Purple Bay (who was put up 16lb for winning the Summer Hurdle at Market Rasen) in the Elite Hurdle at Wincanton and Exitas, who only got his initial mark in July, easily winning a handicap at Sandown the same day.
This weekend it was the turn of another Ferguson-trained horse Chesterfield to follow that path. A winning debut at Worcester and a slightly unfortunate defeat at Market Rasen saw the horse given a mark of 123 at the start of September. He made good use of it on Saturday in the Mallard Pawnbrokers and Family Jewellers Novice Handicap at Cheltenham, winning well and being promoted to a new mark of 130.
The JCB Triumph Hurdle still seems a long way off but the juvenile form is beginning to bed down now and Saturday’s renewal of the JCB Triumph Hurdle Trial looked just about up to scratch. Both Hargam and Baraka de Thaix showed considerable promise for the future but both were out-battled by the game Golden Doyen, who made use of his hurdling experience and raised his rating to 138 in the process.
The current state of play with the juveniles does suggest that the French ones currently have the edge, starting hurdling so much earlier as they do. My figures have the four best juveniles in Britain and Ireland rated 138 or 139. I would currently have nine French Juveniles at 140+ were they to be entered here.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 19:39:44 GMT
Kempton Park, 20 Nov 14
Race 1 - 4:10pm THE racinguk.com/freetrial START YOURS TODAY CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6) Adam Kirby, the rider of COMMANCHE, unplaced, reported that the gelding lost his action. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 3 - 5:10pm THE Titanbet.co.uk NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) (BOBIS RACE) The Stewards held an enquiry to consider the apparent improvement in form of the winner, GLEAMING GIRL, ridden by Sophie Killoran and trained by David Simcock, which had never previously been placed. They interviewed the trainer's representative who stated that the filly had benefited from having her first run in a handicap off a low weight. Having heard his evidence they forwarded his explanation to the British Horseracing Authority so that the previous performances of GLEAMING GIRL could be reviewed. The Stewards ordered the filly to be routine tested.
Race 5 - 6:10pm THE £25 FREE BET AT Titanbet.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) The Stewards noted that ALEJANDRO (IRE), placed third, had interfered with KOSIKA (USA), placed sixth, approaching two furlongs out, but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it neither involved a riding offence nor improved ALEJANDRO (IRE)’s placing.
Race 6 - 6:40pm THE BET AND WATCH AT Titanbet.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Stevie Donohoe, the rider of JACK OF DIAMONDS (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding hung left throughout.
Race 7 - 7:10pm THE TITANBET HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Kieran O'Neill, the rider of DREAMING AGAIN, placed second, from one and a half furlongs out. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he used his whip above the permitted level. The Stewards suspended O'Neill for 4 days as follows: Thursday 4, Friday 5, Saturday 6 and Monday 8 December 2014.
Jimmy Quinn, the rider of ZAND MAN, unplaced, reported that the gelding ran too free.
Martin Harley, the rider of CHERRY PRINCESS, placed fourth, reported that the filly hung left.
View Stewards Report Wincanton, 20 Nov 14
Fixture Note The Stewards gave permission for the first open ditch in the back straight to be omitted due to a false patch of ground.
Race 5 - 3:00pm THE EBF & TBA MARES' NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) The Veterinary Officer reported that ACCORDING TO SARAH (IRE), which was pulled up, trained by Philip Hobbs, had bled from the nose.
Race 7 - 4:00pm THE racinguk.com/freetrial JOIN NOW HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) James Davies, the rider of BLACK BIZARRE (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding hung left throughout and was lame on pulling up. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding found it to be lame on its left fore.
Non-Race related incidents In race one the Stewards informed Alexandra Dunn, the trainer of FUSE WIRE, that in their opinion, having reviewed recordings of the race, the gelding was not a suitable ride for a conditional jockey in a Hands and Heels race.
View Stewards Report Market Rasen, 20 Nov 14
Race 4 - 2:05pm THE PHS BESAFE BRIGHT-GEAR WORKWEAR SOLUTIONS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) The Stewards held an enquiry into the fall of Kieron Edgar, the rider of HOME RUN (GER), shortly after the three-furlong marker. They interviewed Edgar and having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the incident the Stewards found that the fall was caused by HOME RUN (GER) stumbling badly and being unable to recover. Being satisfied that no other horse or rider was involved, the Stewards took no further action. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 2:40pm THE CONNOLLY'S RED MILLS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (The Connolly's RED MILLS 'Precision Nutrition' Series Qualifier) The Stewards considered the running of DEFINITELY BETTER (IRE), ridden by Paddy Brennan and trained by Tom George, which finished unplaced. The Stewards noted the trainer’s explanation that the mare was jumped into early on and was never travelling thereafter. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of DEFINITELY BETTER (IRE) during routine testing found that the mare had slight abrasions on her hind legs.
Race 6 - 3:10pm THE BLOCK FREE SERVICES HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, HI BOB, ridden by Danny Cook and trained by Lucinda Egerton, compared with its previous run at Hexham on 7 November 2014 where the gelding was pulled up. They noted the trainer’s explanation that HI BOB had benefited from the run at Hexham, which followed a break of five months and also appreciated the drop in trip from three miles to two and a half miles. They ordered HI BOB to be routine tested.
The Stewards considered the running of VEYRANNO (FR), ridden by Paddy Brennan and trained by Tom George, which started favourite and finished fourth of four. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
View Stewards Report Chepstow, 20 Nov 14
Race 1 - 12:40pm THE RAF BENEVOLENT FUND NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Stewards held an enquiry into the reason why the reins of KLEITOMACHOS (IRE), trained by Stuart Kittow, had snapped when jumping the first hurdle. They interviewed the trainer and inspected the reins. Having heard his evidence the Stewards accepted the trainer’s explanation that the leather underneath the rubber had snapped but that the reins were in a serviceable condition.
Ollie Garner, the rider of SWIFT ACT, which was pulled up, reported that his saddle slipped.
Jason Maguire, the rider of KLEITOMACHOS (IRE), which was pulled up, reported that his reins had snapped when jumping the first hurdle.
Race 4 - 2:15pm THE ROYAL AIR FORCE NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Brendan Powell, the rider of YOUNG CHEDDAR (IRE), which was pulled up, reported that the mare had lost her action. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Non-Race related incidents In race 4 the Stewards held an enquiry following a report from the Starter that the following riders had allowed their horses to canter before the flag had been dropped and the tape released: Nico de Boinville, the rider of FLINTHAM, Tom Scudamore, the rider of TOKYO JAVILEX (FR), Donal Devereux, the rider of PRINCESS TARA (IRE), Ben Poste, the rider of EATON ROCK (IRE), and Alain Cawley, the rider of EASTERN WITNESS (IRE). They interviewed the riders and the Starters. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the start the Stewards found the riders in breach of Rule (D)44.4 and suspended each of them for 1 day as follows: 4 December 2014.
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Post by banger on Nov 20, 2014 19:43:57 GMT
Jamie Spencer's decision to quit riding was prompted by news that his contract as number one jockey to Qatar Racing would not be renewed, the jockey has revealed. Spencer and Sheikh Fahad: 'I get him and he gets me'. The two-times champion jockey surprised the world of racing three months ago by announcing his retirement from the saddle, with Andrea Atzeni later confirmed as Sheikh Fahad's number one from next January. Spencer has instead been offered a management role within the Qatar Racing operation, but was informed in August he had lost his position as their top jockey. He told The Times: "The story is that I was told my contract wasn't being renewed for next year. "You wouldn't be human if that didn't come as a shock, but there has been no fall-out. "Sheikh Fahad and I still speak every day. I've really enjoyed working for him. I get him and he gets me." Spencer, 34, was only in his second season with the developing Qatar outfit when he was told by Sheikh Fahad at the Arlington Million meeting in Chicago that his race-riding contract would not be renewed. Contradicting previous accounts given of the background to the split, he said: "David (Redvers, racing and bloodstock manager for Sheikh Fahad) said to me the day before that the boss wanted to speak to me. I guess I knew what was coming. "This had seemed a dream job but nothing is ever set in stone in racing. You never really put your feet too far under the table because it's a fickle, results-driven sport. "Last year went reasonably well but we'd not had horses making a splash on the big days this year. It came good in the second half of the season but everything had changed by then. "I saw Sheikh Fahad for an hour after my last ride at Arlington. The measure of the man is that he doesn't hide. I know it wasn't a fast decision. By all accounts, they are were talking about it in July. "He went through everything with me in detail and made me an offer to join the management team. It wasn't an easy decision and I didn't have much time to think about it." Spencer's decision to retire at the end of the year continues to generate much debate, but the six-times Classic winner says has no intention of deviating from his original call. He said: "I haven't stopped yet - I'm going to Barbados and to Hong Kong next month - but people are trying to make every ride my last. "There was always going to be a question in my mind, because riding is what I've done all my life. "I'm looking forward to the first proper break I'll have had since 2001. "Stepping off the hamster wheel will do me the world of good, and seeing my kids at Christmas, without too much on my mind, will also be nice. "Before that, I'll meet up with Sheikh Fahad soon and discuss the future. My relationship with him is a big thing and I want to be involved with his operation. "There's no sense disguising it's a difficult time but, in my mind, I'm stopping riding. "It doesn't sit easy but that's how life is. Nothing lasts forever."
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Post by banger on Nov 20, 2014 19:49:50 GMT
James Doyle accepts the decision to join Godolphin's powerhouse was not taken lightly - but the jockey is ready to embrace the challenge. James Doyle: Ready for Godolphin challenge Doyle has enjoyed another superb campaign in the Khalid Abdullah silks, with the exploits of Kingman and Noble Mission the clear highlights. But from next year he will switch allegiances to the royal blue of Godolphin, for whom he will be retained rider for Saeed bin Suroor, with William Buick named number one for Charlie Appleby's string under the same ownership. Doyle said: "I think its a wonderful opportunity and I'm really looking forward to it. "It wasn't an easy decision, it wasn't plain-sailing at all. "I'm looking forward to moving forward, to keep progressing. "It's a new challenge and I'm really excited about it." Doyle is especially looking forward to linking up with Bin Suroor. He told "His record is pretty amazing. "He's trained winners all round the world, he's very patient and takes his time with his horses. "He has a fantastic team at home, as well. "He's obviously shown he's a world-class trainer."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 20, 2014 19:52:50 GMT
Cue Card will face eight rivals when he defends his crown in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday. Colin Tizzard's stable star was beaten into fourth on his seasonal reappearance in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter at the start of the month, but he finished third in the same race a year ago before going on to success on Merseyside. The eight-year-old will once again clash with last year's runner-up Dynaste and the third home, Silviniaco Conti. David Pipe's Dynaste, winner of the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March, makes his first appearance of the season. The Paul Nicholls-trained Silviniaco Conti, who landed the 2012 Betfair Chase, is expected to strip fitter than 12 months ago having had a comeback run, albeit a slightly disappointing one, in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby. Charlie Hall winner Menorah represents the bang-in-form combination of Philip Hobbs and Richard Johnson and is reopposed by Jonjo O'Neill's Wetherby runner-up Taquin Du Seuil. Wetherby third, fourth and seventh - Double Ross, Medermit and The Giant Bolster - have also been declared. Kim Bailey's Harry Topper completes the field. ================================ Ante-post favourite Volnay De Thaix has the burden of top weight in the Betfair "This Is Play" "Fixed Brush" Handicap Hurdle at Haydock on Saturday. Nicky Henderson's progressive five-year-old, penalised 5lb for an easy victory at Huntingdon last week, has been left at the top of the handicap following the defection of Henryville at the 48-hour declaration stage. A maximum field of 17 is set to go to post, with the Tim Easterby-trained Trustan Times bidding to repeat his success in this race two years ago. David Pipe's Katkeau and the Philip Hobbs-trained Big Easy, a respective first and second at Cheltenham last weekend, are again set to do battle. Pipe is also represented by Vieux Lion Rouge, third to Shelford in Chepstow's Silver Trophy last month when Nick Williams' Aubusson, who renews rivalry, was second. The Nicholashayne trainer also has Unique De Cotte, who is a reserve in the line-up. Hobbs has another runner in Uncle Jimmy, runner-up to Peckhamecho at Aintree last month, while Charlie Longsdon's aptly-named Spirit Of Shankly scored at Aintree last time and now tries to lift another prize on Merseyside. Dara Tango, trained by Tony Martin, attempts to land the spoils for Ireland. The seven-year-old has not run over hurdles for two years but is fit from a narrow victory on the Flat at Catterick four weeks ago. Completing a competitive field are Oscar Rock, Araldur, Sybarite, One For Harry, Awaywiththegreys, Shimla Dawn, Upswing and Kingsmere. ===================================== Tony McCoy is set to return to competitive action in the middle of next week. The 19-times champion jockey was initially sidelined for a short spell after taking a crashing fall from the Rebecca Curtis-trained Keep Presenting at Worcester on October 9, but aggravated his injuries in another spill at Exeter earlier this month. He rode at Chepstow the following day, but decided to take a couple of weeks off to fully recuperate. McCoy is, however, set to be back in the saddle ahead of next week's high-profile Hennessy Gold Cup fixture at Newbury, with the meetings at Fontwell and Wetherby on Wednesday under consideration for his return. His personal assistant Gee Bradburne said: "I've spoken to him very briefly and he's been for an X-ray this morning. "Everything was good and he hopes to be back next Wednesday." Among McCoy's rides at Newbury next weekend is Jonjo O'Neill's World Hurdle winner More Of That in the bet365 Long Distance Hurdle ======================================= A filly by the brilliant Frankel out of the 2007 English and Irish 1,000 Guineas winner Finsceal Beo has been sold for €1.8million at Goffs November Sale - a record for a foal at public auction in Ireland. The foal from Frankel's first crop was sent from the Al-Eile Stud in Kilgobnet, Dungarvan, and bought by Dermot Farrington Bloodstock, of Naas, on behalf of a 'new Irish client'. Her sale brings the total generated by Finsceal Beo's progeny at auction to €5.45m. However, her price is not a European record for a foal - that accolade belongs to My Typhoon, the half-sister to Galileo and Sea The Stars who sold for 1.8m guineas at Tattersalls in 2002. She is the fifth foal out of her dam, who was trained by Jim Bolger. Finsceal Beo's third foal Ol' Man River is the pick of the crop so far. Bought for a record €2.85 million as a yearling at Goffs last year, the Montjeu colt was a smooth winner of his debut before capturing the Group Two Beresford Stakes at the Curragh and is a big Classic hope for the Aidan O'Brien stable in 2015. ================================== Aidan O'Brien's St Leger and Ascot Gold Cup winner Leading Light has been retired and will join Coolmore's National Hunt stallion roster for 2015. The four-year-old was last seen running at Ascot on Champions Day where he trailed home seventh behind Forgotten Rules but it later transpired he suffered a serious injury in an incident with the eventual winner. O'Brien had hoped that his racing days were not over but his career now lies away from the track. Leading Light beat the Investec Oaks winner Talent when winning the 2013 Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster and came out on top in a thrilling three-way battle with Estimate (who was subsequently disqualified) and Missunited in the Gold Cup earlier this year. "He's a gorgeous, big horse and we're delighted to be getting him," said Coolmore's Albert Sherwood on www.coolmore.com. ============================================ A crucial scan early next month is likely to determine when top-class chaser Flemenstar can make his return to competitive action. The nine-year-old looked to have the world at his feet a couple of years ago after winning three Grade Ones over fences, after which he finished placed in the Lexus Chase and the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown. However, after a disappointing run at Aintree in April of last year, he moved from Peter Casey's yard to the Tony Martin stables. Although Flemenstar made a winning debut for his new trainer in the Fortria Chase at Navan last November, he has not been seen since. Owner Stephen Curran has slowly nursed his charge back to full health and hopes he could be back on the racecourse early next year. Curran said: "He was back with us within two weeks of getting injured as we felt we could manage him better from here than at Tony Martin's and we're very happy with him at the moment. "He's been back in work around four months. He had seven weeks walking on the road and six weeks trotting and he looks in great order. He's doing about four miles every day. "He's going to go back to the Anglesey Lodge Hospital up in the Curragh in the first week in December for another scan and that will tell us a lot more. "I'm hopeful we've got him back in good shape, but Ned Gowing (veterinary surgeon) has looked after him since day one and he'll be able to tell us where we are after he has his next scan. "What I'm hoping is he'll tell us we can step up his work and I don't think it will take a lot to get him fit. "He's fairly fit now, so if all goes well and he gets the all-clear in December, I'd be hopeful he'll be ready to go again at the end of January, but we'll see. "He's too good a horse to rush and we'll take it one day at a time, but we're on the right road." ================================= Home Farm won on his first start for trainer Henry de Bromhead when capitalising on the final-fence fall of Hidden Cyclone to take the John Meagher Memorial Chase at a foggy Thurles. The Listed contest was still in the balance at the last but it was all over after Hidden Cyclone came down leaving his fellow 6-4 joint-favourite to come home six lengths clear of Foildubh, with Maggio back in third. Hidden Cyclone had made the running until four out where David Casey asked Home Farm to take closer order. The former Arthur Moore inmate held a handy lead after jumping the penultimate obstacle but Hidden Cyclone was making a renewed effort when he and Andrew McNamara parted company. Home Farm was given a quote of 33-1 for the Crabbie's Grand National by Paddy Power. De Bromhead said: "He'd been third in an Irish National before he came to us and his form was rock-solid. "He had a wind op at the end of last season and that's made a huge difference to him. We're delighted to get him, he's a lovely horse and he put up a good performance. "We were fairly wrong at the ratings with Hidden Cyclone, but this was just to get our lad started and see where we were with him. "We'll see what the handicapper thinks after that and work from there. He was fifth in the Paddy Power (at Leopardstown) last Christmas. We'll discuss it with the owner and come up with a plan in the next few weeks. "You'd imagine he's be an ideal candidate for the Grand National (at Aintree). The better the ground the better he is. With goodish ground he'd love it round there." De Bromhead was just denied a double when Attribution was only beaten a head by the Willie Mullins-trained 4-11 shot Bellshill in the Liscahill INH Flat Race. Mullins said: "He made hard work of it and raced very keen throughout and hadn't as much in reserve. Hopefully he will improve and win his winners' bumper." Trainer Michael Hourigan and jockey Barry Geraghty teamed up for a double with Aerlite Supreme and Drumacoo. Aerlite Supreme (7-4) showed the benefit of his fencing bow at Limerick last month when going one better in the www.thurlesraces.ie Beginners Chase. After Somethingwonderful fell at the penultimate fence, it left Aerlite Supreme (7-4) to go on and beat the 13-8 favourite As De Ferbet to score by three and a quarter lengths. "He jumped much better today than he did in Limerick. He was attacking his fences today. We've schooled him well since but you can't beat a run," said Hourigan. "I'm going to chance running him in the Drinmore. He did it all over hurdles, he won three, and I think you will see the best of him chasing. The brace was brought up by Drumacoo (6-5 favourite), who kept on well to beat Couleur France by two and a half lengths in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Novice Hurdle. "It was a true run race and I was worried about the horse in front (Bosman Rule) for a while as he was winging hurdles," said Hourigan. "He'll go for the Dorans Pride Hurdle at Limerick over Christmas now." ==================================== nton has been disqualified from his third place in last month's Listed totescoop6 EBF Guisborough Stakes at Redcar after it transpired he was not qualified to run. At a disciplinary panel inquiry of the British Horseracing Authority on Thursday it was found that the Marco Botti-trained gelding by Galileo, having been conceived in the southern hemisphere, was not EBF (European Breeders Fund) eligible and was not therefore qualified by the conditions of the race to be entered or run. The BHA did not take any action against Botti as he was wrongly advised by a device on the Racing Administration Site that his horse was qualified to run. The issue is thought to have arisen as the horse was the progeny of two European domiciled parents - which under normal circumstances would have made the horse qualified for the race - but happened to have been conceived in Australia, which ruled out EBF events. This case follows hot on the heels of last week's disqualification of The Young Master, who won the Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton, only for it to later transpire he was not qualified to run either. ================================ Dual bumper winner Taj Badalandabad got off the mark over hurdles to initiate a double on the afternoon for David Pipe and Tom Scudamore at Chepstow. The Irish point-to-point graduate looked a smart recruit when winning successive races at Ffos Las in the spring, but proved a slightly disappointing favourite on his debut over timber at Wetherby at the start of the month. Sent off an even-money favourite to atone for that reverse in an RAF Benevolent Fund Novices' Hurdle run in testing ground, Pipe's charge quickened clear from the home turn and was well on top as he passed the post four lengths clear of Quinlandio. "It (the ground) has helped him. Having said that, I thought he ran really well at Wetherby last time in what turned out to be a good race," said Scudamore. "Even on his Wetherby form he was entitled to win today. "He's still young and he's still learning, but it was a very pleasing performance and hopefully he can go on from here." The Pond House team were on target again in the AMSS Handicap Chase as Smiles For Miles survived one heart-stopping error to win readily. The 7-2 shot fenced well in the main and appeared to have victory sewn up a long way from home. However, he gave his supporters a real fright by making a mess of the fourth fence from the finish, but Scudamore managed to keep the partnership intact. It was plain sailing for Smiles For Miles from there on in as he eased to a four-and-a-half-length victory over Cruising Bye. Scudamore told At The Races: "It's a fine line between success and failure. Luckily he kept straight and he jumped brilliantly up until then. It's only his second run over fences, so he's entitled to miss one. "The blinkers have helped focus him and given him a lot more confidence. All the way through he was travelling and it was a good performance." The Anthony Honeyball-trained Rouquine Sauvage (10-1) finally got it together over obstacles in the JBPLC Mares' Handicap Hurdle. The Fontwell bumper winner has proved bitterly disappointing since being snapped up by leading owner JP McManus, but she may have turned a corner judged on this emphatic nine-length success under Rachael Green. "That was a great improvement from her other tries over hurdles," said the jockey. "She's a very keen mare and hasn't been getting home. She had a wind operation over the summer and that's just what we wanted - to see her finish her race off. I'm not saying she had to be back to her best today, but it was a nice opportunity to get her switched off and teach her something." Flintham (9-2) got his head in front for the first time under top-weight in the Royal Air Force Novices' Handicap Hurdle. The five-year-old is a full-brother to Mark Bradstock's stable stalwart Carruthers and a half-brother to the yard's exciting youngster Coneygree. Winning jockey Nico de Boinville said: "I'm really happy with that. Those cheekpieces made a real difference and it was first time in a handicap as well. He's from the Carruthers family and all they do is stay - they stay all day." The Evan Williams-trained Islandmagee (6-4 favourite) gave conditional jockey Lewis Gordon his first ever winner with a 14-length success in the rafbf.org Handicap Chase. Gordon said: "I couldn't believe how far clear I was. I was planning to drop him in, but he was too well and fresh and pulled my arms out." The Sophie Leech-trained Kapricorne completed a hat-trick under a well-judged front-running ride from Paul Moloney in the 47 Squadron Handicap Hurdle. Williams and Moloney were looking to complete doubles in the AMSS Atlas Handicap Hurdle, but strong-travelling favourite Oscar Sunset was unable to get by Matt Sheppard's 2-1 shot Rock On Rocky, ridden by Charlie Poste. =================================== Jamie Insole has been taken to hospital after suffering a fractured jaw and facial injuries in a nasty fall at Wincanton. The jockey was having his first ride as a conditional aboard the Alan King-trained Say When in the Lenny Roberts Memorial Trophy Racing Excellence 'Hands And Heels' Novices' Handicap Hurdle. Insole only made it as far as the first flight as his mount veered badly right and dumped him on the turf, also bringing down Admirable Duque. King said: "He's gone off to hospital and unfortunately he's fractured his jaw. He's also got quite a nasty cut under his chin. "He was conscious and there were no problems on that score, but the jaw is a bit of a mess and he's going to have to have a fair bit of work done. "He's ridden in point-to-points and hunter chases before, but this was his first ride as a conditional (jockey), so it's unfortunate."
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Post by banger on Nov 20, 2014 20:43:09 GMT
Friday: Going, weather and non-runners ASCOT GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places; GoingStick: Chase 6.8, Hurdle 6.7)
WEATHER (Light rain) HAYDOCK GOING: SOFT (Good to soft in places; GoingStick: Chase 6.8, Hurdle 6.6) (Race distance changes: 2m hurdle/bumper & chase over 2m 1/2f add 18yds, hurdle over 2m 4f add 36yds, chase over 2m 6f add 36yds & hurdle over 3m add 36yds)
WEATHER (Cloudy) WOLVERHAMPTON GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD
WEATHER (Cloudy)
STALLS 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside FFOS LAS GOING: SOFT (GoingStick 6.0)
WEATHER (Cloudy)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 21, 2014 9:04:39 GMT
REBEL FITZ'S Christmas clash with Sizing Europe at Leopardstown was on Thursday hanging in the balance as Mick Winters' nine-year-old underwent tests at Troytown Equine Hospital.
The team behind the prolific winner had been eyeing the John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown as a preparation run for the Paddy Power Dial-A-Bet Chase, but Rebel Fitz did not appear among the entries last week and on Thursday trainer Mick Winters was unsure about whether he would run at Christmas.
He said: "He's had a bit of fluid all the time in his joint and we've sent him to Troytown for an MRI scan to find out why it's there, as none of the vets down here can work it out, but it needs to go.
"We'll know more at the weekend after the scan. At this stage I couldn't say what it means. It could be nothing and could be cleared up pretty quick."
Rebel Fitz's preference for good ground means he has never raced in November or December, but Winters had been keen to take on former Champion Chase winner Sizing Europe at Leopardstown.
He said: "Every other year we were off from October to the spring, but this time I feel he's at his very best and should be racing."
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Post by banger on Nov 21, 2014 18:08:41 GMT
Views from connections ahead of Saturday's Betfair Price Rush Hurdle at Haydock, with The New One the star of the show. The New One: Heads to Haydock following a comeback success at Kempton The New One faces five rivals in the inaugural running of the £100,000 Betfair Price Rush Hurdle at Haydock on Saturday. Nigel Twiston-Davies immediately mentioned the new race as the target for his stable star after he came through his first run of the season without a hitch at Kempton. Considered by many to have finished an unlucky third in the Champion Hurdle in March, he is behind only Faugheen in the ante-post betting for this season's renewal at Cheltenham. The conditions of the race mean The New One has plenty in hand at the weights and it will be a major surprise, not to mention disappointing for connections, were he to meet with defeat. "He's very well and this has been the plan since Kempton," said Twiston-Davies. "There are some nice horses in there, there's bound to be for the money. "No race is a penalty kick but he ought to win, barring accidents, when you look at the ratings. "He goes on any ground, quick or slow, so that shouldn't be an excuse, and we're looking forward to it. "Should all go to plan, it will be Cheltenham next for the International." One who steps up markedly in grade is Tim Easterby's Hawk High. A Cheltenham Festival winner in the Fred Winter last season, he got off to a great start this term with a win at Aintree, form which has already been boosted by third-placed Garde Le Victoire winning the Greatwood last week. Unfortunately for Easterby, though, the ground is unlikely to be in Hawk High's favour. He said: "I have spoken with Trevor Hemmings (owner) and he was keen to run. "I am always worried about the ground with him but he should be OK. "He has run well on soft ground but is a better horse on good ground." According to official ratings, The New One will face his stiffest task from Melodic Rendezvous. Trained by Jeremy Scott, the eight-year-old won the Champion Hurdle Trial over the same course and distance as this in January and followed up in the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton a month later, when he beat Zarkandar. His season ended on a downward note, however, as the spring ground caught him out at both Cheltenham and Aintree. "The horse is fit and ready to run," said Scott. "We had him in at Ascot as well but we were always going to run wherever the ground was softest," John Quinn's Aurore D'Estruval looked a mare with a bright future last season and she appeared to have improved again on her return to action at Wetherby. She was never out of second gear in winning by 10 lengths under Tony McCoy, but Quinn is well aware this is a much stiffer task. "We feels she's earned a step up in grade but this is a different kettle of fish to what she faced at Wetherby," said the Malton handler. "She's in good fettle and she'll run well. It will tell where we are going I should think. "We had her in the Fighting Fifth next week as well, but we just felt she was more likely to get her ground this week." The Venetia Williams-trained Zamdy Man won all his three races last season but has not been seen for nearly a year since claiming a Grade Two as a novice at this track in January. Completing the field is Evan Williams' smart chaser William's Wishes. Williams said: "William's Wishes has had more problems than you could ever imagine and we are keen to get him started for the season. I thought that we could start him off in this race and hope that he would stay sound. "Make no mistake, he is a very talented horse but has been plagued by problems throughout his career and this is almost like one last throw of the dice. "We didn't want to start him off in a chase with all the stresses and strains that would entail so hurdling could be the way forward with him, although I want to get through the race before making any predictions of where we go with him this season. "I am very happy with him but I have been very happy with him for all of his career. He shows very little at home - you can never tell how good he is at home - but he is fresh and happy. "Softer ground will be kinder on him and I just hoping that we can a run under our belt and see how he is afterwards. He's a lovely horse and I just hope that we can a few runs into him and have a proper season."
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Post by banger on Nov 21, 2014 18:33:40 GMT
Views from connections ahead of Saturday's Betfair Chase, including Colin Tizzard on last year's winner Cue Card. Cue Card: Back to his best, according to his trainer Colin Tizzard is hopeful history can repeat itself as Cue Card aims to retain his crown in what promises to be another thrilling renewal of the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday. The eight-year-old might be a dual Cheltenham Festival winner having annihilated the opposition in the 2010 Champion Bumper and landed last year's Ryanair Chase, but his brilliant display on Merseyside 12 months ago was arguably a career-best effort. That sensational performance came off the back of a decent effort in defeat in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter and he has followed the same path this year, finishing fourth in Devon earlier this month on his first start since filling the runner-up spot in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. With the pelvic injury that saw him miss the back-end of last year seemingly behind his stable star, Tizzard expects Cue Card to be at the top of his game this weekend. "Cue Card has come out of the Haldon Gold Cup very well and the run has improved him both mentally and physically," said Tizzard. "He was coming back from a near 11-month lay-off at Exeter and was trying to give masses of weight to really exciting two-milers. "All my horses have been improving for a run this season and I know he has as well. "He is a lot tighter and going from Exeter to Haydock worked a treat last year, so hopefully it will be the same this time around." Cue Card will likely need to bounce back to his best if he is to emerge triumphant once again as he prepares to lock horns with a couple of familiar foes in Dynaste and Silviniaco Conti. The David Pipe-trained Dynaste was second on his seasonal reappearance in the Haydock feature a year ago before going on to Cheltenham glory in the Ryanair. He once again makes his first start of the campaign in the three-mile Grade One. Pipe said: "He's in good form and I expect him to run a good race like last year. "Whether that's enough to win or not, I'll let you know on Saturday." Dynaste's big-race jockey Tom Scudamore told At The Races: "He seems in good order at home. "His form last year was very, very good. "I sat on him earlier in the week and was very happy with him. "I'm as happy with him as I've ever been." Paul Nicholls saddled the legendary Kauto Star to win the Betfair Chase on four occasions and also struck with Silviniaco Conti in 2012. The year the eight-year-old struck gold at Haydock, he had previously won the Charlie Hall Chase, while last year he was third having not had the benefit of a prep run. Nicholls did send his charge to Wetherby this time around, and although he disappointed in finishing fifth, the champion trainer is confident it had the desired effect ahead of Saturday's assignment. Nicholls said: "He's great. He's come on for that run at Wetherby the other day. He had a nice run round. "The ground was testing enough and it was an easy three miles but he has had a run and a day out, which is what we wanted and it won't be lost on him. "I think last year at Haydock he probably needed the run. Hopefully this time he won't. "The more rain, the better." Silviniaco Conti, wearing cheek pieces for the first time, is one of six horses in the field to have run in the Charlie Hall, headed by the Philip Hobbs-trained winner Menorah. The Minehead maestro has enjoyed a spectacular start to the campaign along with stable jockey Richard Johnson, with Wishfull Thinking and Garde La Victoire among those to have also enjoyed big-race success. Johnson said: "The horses are obviously in great form and we know Menorah was in great form when he won at Wetherby. "Fingers crossed they don't get too much rain. I think that's the main concern for both myself and Philip. "It's disappointing he's not going to get his favoured conditions, but at the same time he deserves to be in the race tomorrow and we'll see what happens. "I'm sure when he gets on the better ground in the spring he'll be happier." Charlie Hall-runner-up Taquin Du Seuil is the potential rising star in the line-up and with Tony McCoy still on the sidelines, Barry Geraghty comes in for the ride. "He's obviously a very good horse. He ran well in Wetherby. I think a drop of rain would probably do him no harm," said Geraghty. "He's a horse that seems to cope well with soft ground. It will be a high-class race with Paul Nicholls' horse (Silviniaco Conti) and Cue Card and Dynaste and everything in it. It's going to be a hot race. "I rode him in a novice hurdle when he was second to My Tent Or Yours at Ascot, so I've an idea how he goes, but I've seen plenty of him over the years." Charlie Hall third, fourth and seventh - Double Ross, Medermit and The Giant Bolster - are all in contention again. David Bridgwater's The Giant Bolster, who has been placed in the last three renewals of the Cheltenham Gold Cup, will be ridden by Tom Cannon for the first time. Cannon said: "It's fantastic to get the ride on him. I only found out Thursday morning I was definitely going to ride him so I went and sat on him. I gave him a little pop (over a fence). I'm really looking forward to it. "He felt great. He did a buck at the top of the gallop with me to show he's feeling well and he jumped well, so that's good. "It's great to ride in a race like that. It's a privilege and hopefully he gives his running. "You want your name to be out there on Saturdays. It's what people take notice of. It's brilliant. "I'll be going through the race with Bridgy, so hopefully everything will go smoothly." The field is completed by Harry Topper and trainer Kim Bailey is delighted his star chaser is set to encounter his favoured soft ground. He said: "I'm very happy with him. He was prepared to run two or three weeks ago and we've just kept him ticking over since then. "In an ideal world we'd have liked to run in the Charlie Hall. He was trained to run there but unfortunately the ground went against us. "He's in good form, though, and I'm sure he'll run well and won't disgrace himself. "Whether he's good enough to win is another thing, but we'll see." Nigel Twiston-Davies feels that his Double Ross has once again been overlooked in the market. "He ran very well at Wetherby and was only beaten in a photo by Taquin Du Seuil," said Twiston-Davies. "He's 1lb better off now, there was nothing between them at Cheltenham either and yet one is 5/1 and one is 25/1. I don't get it. "We'll see how much there is between them but I'm very happy with him."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 21, 2014 18:58:36 GMT
Race Ratings Saturday, 22 November - 3.00 Haydock Betfair Chase (Registered as The Lancashire Chase) (Grade 1) (Class 1) 3m 1f
312-4 Cue Card 18 8 11-7 Colin Tizzard Won this race last year in this ground, and although connections' plans to send him over further than 3m for the rest of the season didn't really work out, he ran well, though was- n't seen again until his recent reappearance in the Haldon Gold Cup. Looked in need of the run and further in that race, so has to be respected here. RATING 97 235-B3 Double Ross 21 8 11-7 Nigel Twiston-Davies Posted one of his best efforts when third in the Charlie Hall Chase earlier this month, but yard does tend to go well at this time of year and some of his higher profile rivals may just improve past him. Still has to prove himself a proper 3m chaser, but Grade 1-placed form in novice chases last season give him a chance of making the places in this race. RATING 95 2512- Dynaste 233 8 11-7 David Pipe Was second to Cue Card in this race last year, and was then unplaced in soft ground in the King George VI Chase next time. That form reinforces the impression that this race might be more one for very good chasers at distances between 2m 4f and up to 3m, rather than being one for true stayer-chasers. Dynaste was then dropped back to 2m 5f to winning effect for the Grade 1 RyanAir Chase, before being beaten by Silviniaco Conti over 3m 1f in the Grade 1 Bowl Chase at Aintree. Very talented, but maybe doesn't have ideal conditions in this race and is probably more one for each-way backers. RATING 98 1331P- Harry Topper 252 7 11-7 Kim Bailey Although the race looked a little patchy, Harry Topper made the right impression when win- ning the Charlie Hall Chase last season, im- proving on that form when finishing third in the Gold Cup trial at Cheltenham in January and then winning the Grade 2 Denman Chase at Newbury by a wide margin. Ease in ground will help today, but suspicion remains that this may be a bit too much of a speed test for him and it is a stiff enough assignment on his return to action. RATING 96 48-44 Medermit 21 10 11-7 Alan King Getting on these days, and it’s five seasons since he won a Grade 1 as a novice chaser, building on that the following season when win- ning the Haldon Gold Cup and finishing third in the Ryan Air. Returned to action after a two- year absence in the spring, and improved with each run, finishing fourth in a Grade 1 at Punchestown over distance before the summer. Comeback-fourth in the Charlie Hall last time wasn't a bad effort, but others still preferred. RATING 96 P051-1 Menorah 21 9 11-7 Philip Hobbs Probably gets 3m better than Cue Card, but isn't a stayer in the mould of Silviniaco Conti, so success in this race will largely depend on how the race is run, and is unlikely to want any further rain. Win in Charlie Hall Chase was one of his best runs to date, but needs to run to that level again at least, assuming fellow market principals are fully on form. RATING 99 211-32 Taquin Du Seuil 21 7 11-7 Jonjo O ́Neill One of powerful stable's main hopes for this season, on the back of winning the Grade 1 Golden Miller Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March. Stayed on well at the end of his last race, when second in the Charlie Hall, leaving him something to find with Menorah. A true run race might suit him better than some others, and respected, as a younger, less-ex- posed horse over these distances. RATING 98 U513-7 The Giant Bolster 21 9 11-7 David Bridgwater Likeable, classy sort who has run well in some big races for his young, up-and-coming trainer, finishing in the first four in each of the last three Cheltenham Gold Cups. Also ran a big race at Cheltenham when winning the Gold Cup trial in January, beating Harry Topper in the process, but form at other tracks is patchy, and disappointed on his seasonal debut in the Charlie Hall Chase. RATING 94 3141-5 Silviniaco Conti 21 8 11-7 Paul Nicholls Stable is in great form at the moment, and has a terrific record in this race, having won five times since 2006, including with this horse two years ago. Arguably wasn't seen to best effect when fifth in the Charlie Hall Chase, over a trip that has turned out to be less than the expected three miles. Ex- pected to improve for that race and, if back to his best form here, should have a good chance, if probably reliant on there being a decent, end-to-end gallop. RATING 100. ========================================= NOTEBOOK.
Trainer Feargal O'Brien's THE GOVANESS ran a solid race on her second start over hurdles when sharply raised in class for the Grade 2 Sharp Novices' Hurdle on the Sunday of last weekend's Open Meeting at Cheltenham. Pre- viously, she had finished a fair second on her hurdling debut, in a mares' NH maiden hurdle at Ffos Las, so her latest start would have been a much stiffer task. However, she wasn't dis- graced in finishing fourth, beaten just over 14 lengths by the more experienced winner. The Govaness's bumper form of last season (two wins, including at Listed level, and fourth in the Listed mares' bumper at Aintree's Grand Na- tional meeting) entitles connections to look at better races over hurdles for her, but she should win over hurdles at a more realistic level, based on what she has shown so far, maybe against her own sex. The 2m beginners' chase at Leicester's Monday meeting looked a particularly interesting race. It was won in decent fashion by THREE KINGDOMS , who was a useful novice hurdler over this distance last season, and ran in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle. He jumped well on this latest start, which also marked his chasing debut, beating a consistent but more experi- enced rival in THOMAS CRAPPER , who should get off the mark somewhere this season, if a little unlucky so far to bump into decent rivals each time he races. Further back, the fourth-placed SUCH A LEGEND , trained by Kim Bailey, also showed well, but looked in need of the run. He should make his mark over fences in due course. Paul Nicholls's MORE BUCK'S , a relative of the stable's outstanding stayer Big Buck's, probably wasn't best-suited by the very testing ground at Plumpton, when he finished a beaten third in the 2m 5f NH novices' hurdle. On his sole start and debut last season, he won a 2m 1f, good-ground bumper at Exeter in April, and didn't run to form when he reappeared for his seasonal debut under a penalty in a bumper at Fontwell last month, where he ran on soft ground. He's worth giving a chance on good or good to soft, but this will be more likely when the spring comes. ===================================
STAT WATCH.
With a 10/1 winner and several places among our stats-influenced selections last Saturday, we hope examination of the trends for this Saturday's racing (22 November), can lead us to more good results. Channel 4 is covering the racing from Ascot (2.04, 2.40 and 3.15) and Haydock (1.50, 2.25, 3.00 and 3.35). The form Jump jockey of the past week (to Monday, 17 November) is undoubtedly Richard Johnson, whose 8 wins put him top of the table, ahead of Sam Twiston-Davies (7) and Barry Geraghty (6). The latter's 43% strike rate betters the 32% of Johnson, if slightly be- hind the leading 44% of Trevor Whelan. The form Jump trainers of the same period are Paul Nicholls and Philip Hobbs, who each saddled 6 winners, though Hobbs's 32% strike rate easily bettered the 23% of Nicholls. At a lower level, the 100% (3 from 3) and 75% (3 from 4) of trainers Neil King and Michael Todhunter respectively catch the eye. So, on to the featured races from Ascot, and the 2.05, the Grade 2 Amlin Chase, over 2m 3f, looks a fair opportunity for Philip Hobbs's Wishfull Thinking to follow up his impressive, latest win in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree last month. The yard is in great form and the horse is 2 from 3 on the expected soft ground. Another to consider is Paul Nicholls's Al Ferof, who won this race last year and has winning form on the ground, as well as over course and distance. The Grade 2 Ascot Hurdle at 2.40 could be at the mercy of Willie Mullins's Faugheen, who was unbeaten in five starts last season, including twice at Grade 1 level. The stable is in red-hot form at the moment, with a 38% strike rate in the past 14 days. Faugheen has winning form over distance and on ground ranging between heavy and good, so the soft ground shouldn't be a problem. The soft ground will also suit trainer Jeremy Scott's Melodic Rendezvous, who is unraced over this distance, but has good claims on the best of his form in top-grade 2m hurdle races last season. Trainer Dan Skelton has a great 36% strike rate at Ascot to date with his runners and Bellenos might have just needed the run last time, when fourth to Ulck Du Lin last time. He has winning form over course and distance on soft ground, and has a big pull at the weights in this race with Ulck Du Lin. The progressive Grey Gold is interesting higher up the weights, and may still be competitive off his new mark, with his trainer Richard Lee in fine form, with a 27% strike rate in the last 14 days. At Haydock, the new Class 2 conditions hurdle at 1.50 looks a good opportunity for Nigel Twiston-Davies's The New One to get his head in front again. He is 2 from 3 on soft ground. Melodic Rendezvous is also entered in this race and is 5 from 8 over the distance. In the 2.25 at Haydock, a Grade 3 handicap hurdle, Harry Fry's Henryville could be one to watch out for. Although he tops the weights, he is heading the right way and two of the last 10 winners carried 11st 12lb. The stable is in fine form, with a 29% strike rate in the past 14 days, and he has winning form on good-soft, if yet to race on anything softer than that. Nicky Henderson's team are in good form (23%) and Volnay De Thaix has a very good 67% strike rate on the ground, and was a good first time out win- ner this month, with the possibility of more to come. A fascinating contender is Nick William's Aubusson, who is 1 from 2 on the ground and has been staying on well over 2m 4f, so the 3m trip could open up further improvement. =========================================
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 21, 2014 19:09:06 GMT
Tony McCoy believes a burning desire to ride 300 winners in a jumps season affected his judgment over how he handled a recent injury.
The 19-times champion jockey was initially sidelined for a short spell after taking a crashing fall at Worcester on October 9, but aggravated an old rib injury at Exeter earlier this month.
He rode at Chepstow the following day, but finally decided to take a couple of weeks off to fully recuperate.
McCoy remains out of action, with a midweek return pencilled in as a starting point ahead of next weekend's Hennessy fixture at Newbury, where he is likely to partner More Of That in the Long Distance Hurdle.
The 40-year-old Northern Irishman accepted what is now a near-impossible dream of reaching the 300-winner landmark prevented him from taking more time off.
He told At The Races: "I wasn't in great shape, but I'm a lot better now. It was bad, but you only get so many chances to ride 300 winners.
"I probably struggled more mentally than I did physically - that was the problem. It was more mentally tougher to give up than it was physically.
"I could have done everything that a doctor wanted to me, but it was purely mind over matter. I had myself convinced I couldn't afford to have time off." ===================================
Willie Mullins is refusing to look beyond the Coral Hurdle at Ascot with the hugely exciting Faugheen.
Ante-post favourite for the Champion Hurdle on the back of a sparkling novice campaign, the imposing six-year-old faces six rivals on his return to action.
An eight-length winner of his only point-to-point, he beat the classy Josses Hill by 22 lengths in his sole bumper start and is unbeaten in five outings over hurdles.
He did not turn in the best round of jumping in the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, but he powered up the hill to score impressively.
However, it was when Mullins decided to drop him to two miles at the Punchestown Festival that it looked like he could be really special, blitzing a top-class field by upwards of 12 lengths.
With so much strength in depth and a lack of options at home, Mullins sends him for the Grade Two he took with Annie Power 12 months ago and he is keen to see how Faugheen fares before mapping out any plans.
"This race will tell us a lot, and I'm not looking beyond that at the moment," said the Closutton maestro.
It will not be a stroll in the park for Faugheen, though, with Paul Nicholls fielding a Grade One winner in Lac Fontana and Nicky Henderson's returning Blue Fashion taking him on.
Lac Fontana will be ridden by Nick Scholfield, who has a good idea of what it takes to win top-class hurdles as he usually partners Melodic Rendezvous. With his old friend in action at Haydock, the jockey had to desert him in his role as number two to Sam Twiston-Davies at Ditcheat.
Lac Fontana won the County Hurdle at Cheltenham and handled the step up to Grade One company when victorious at Aintree, and he was not disgraced behind Vautour at Punchestown, either.
"It takes a tough horse to even run at both Cheltenham and Aintree but when a horse wins at both meetings they are obviously very good," said Scholfield.
"He's a very decent horse in his own right, but he's facing a potentially exceptional horse in Faugheen. We're well aware he's up against it, but he deserves to take his chance and you should never run away from just one horse as anything can happen.
"It's a shame Melodic Rendezvous is running up at Haydock - it looks like he should get his ground up there - but I can't be in two places at once." =================================
Ruby Walsh and Paul Nicholls team up once again with Al Ferof in the Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot.
The pair enjoyed a fruitful partnership for the best part of 10 years until Walsh decided to relinquish the position in order to spend more time at home in Ireland.
Walsh will be at Ascot riding Faugheen for Willie Mullins and as Nicholls' stable jockey Sam Twiston-Davies will be at Haydock Park, the ride on Al Ferof was up for grabs.
The nine-year-old won the Grade Two contest 12 months ago, when he faced just one rival, but concedes weight all round this time and Nicholls has warned the grey will improve for the outing.
He told Racing UK: "We've done as much as we can, but if he's going to go for the King George he needs a run. He goes well fresh but he will improve for it.
"I don't think he was quite at his best in the spring and he's sometimes funny and does go off a bit, but he was only beaten seven lengths in the Ryanair when he didn't run to his best
"In the King George he ran a blinding race on ground that was quite testing, which suited the winner. If the ground was better this year, I think it would give him a big chance as three miles on decent ground is ideal for him. We've trained him a little bit differently, we've trained him as a stayer - you never know.
"(The King George) is why we're keen to let him run on Saturday, to get a prep into him and take the freshness off and tune him up for the King George and pray we don't get too much rain."
Nicholls also runs Bury Parade, second in the BetBright Chase but pulled up in the bet365 Gold Cup last time out.
He will be ridden by Nick Scholfield, who said: "This looks the ideal race for Bury Parade. He's at a track he likes, he's won there before and he won't mind any rain that falls.
"I rode him at Newbury and that was the last time he went left-handed as he jumped out to his right that day. He's in good form and has been going well at home. I think Paul has had this race in mind for him for some time."
Weighing room veteran Andrew Thornton has come in for the ride on Mick Channon's Somersby and he believes the 2012 Victor Chandler Chase winner could be the forgotten horse in the race.
"He loves it round there, he's won a Victor Chandler and I think he looks a big price," said Thornton.
"I've ridden for Mick for a lot of years on and off, way back in the Clifton Set days (1995), and I still go and do a bit for him and Hen (Knight, Somersby's former trainer). It's nice to get the opportunity on a busy Saturday on a class horse like him.
"I've had a good start to the season, I'm on 12 winners, and it's 967 in total, so I'm inching towards four figures. Amlin have sponsored me for the best part of 10 years, so it would be lovely to win their big race."
Emma Lavelle's Fox Appeal has plenty to find on the figures, but his trainer feels he is better off in a race like this rather than a handicap with a welter burden. He was last seen dead-heating with Colin Tizzard's Hennessy hope Theatre Guide.
Lavelle said: "He's a horse with plenty of ability, but you've got to be careful not to hit the front too soon. That's why I was pleased he at least got a share of the spoils last time as he battled back.
"This looks a very decent contest and I'm aware he's meeting them all on unfavourable terms, but he's not a very big horse so I think he's better off in conditions race rather than carrying big weights in handicaps.
"He has won at Ascot before so he'll like the track, the ground is fine and when we entered him we were thinking the race might cut up. However, even though it's a small field, it's a very classy one this year." ====================================
Daryl Jacob warmed up for his big ride on Cue Card in perfect fashion by riding a double at Haydock Park.
After losing his role as stable jockey to champion trainer Paul Nicholls, Jacob could have seen his career head in the wrong direction, but jockeys of his talent are not usually on the sidelines for long and as one door closed another one opened.
He has been retained by Jean and Bob Bishop to ride their string of horses with Colin Tizzard following the retirement of the trainer's son, Joe.
As well as the ride on Hennessy player Theatre Guide, already a winner this season, the plum ride on Cue Card is now Jacob's and his first major aim of the season is the Betfair Chase.
Jacob struck first in the opening Brown Shipley Wealth Well Managed Handicap Hurdle on Emma Lavelle's Closing Ceremony (13-2), who had looked promising last year before two below-par runs.
The five-year-old showed a courageous attitude to hold off 4-1 favourite Milan Bound after a terrific duel in the final furlong.
Jacob said: "He was very game as he had to try really hard there. I got a spare ride on him in a novices' hurdle at Chepstow last year and really liked him so it was nice to get back on him and win a valuable prize."
The jockey then teamed up with Tizzard to win the Oak Loans And Mortgage Graduation Chase on Third Intention, who was winning over fences for just the second time having been placed in some big races last season. Willie Mullins' Turban was sent off odd-on favourite but trailed home last of four.
"I don't think the other three can have run their race, otherwise if they have the handicapper is going to crucify us for that," said Tizzard.
"I like the graduation chases, they are perfect for a horse like him. We brought him back to two miles, we've tried him at three and two and a half so maybe I've been running him over the wrong trip for a while.
"He hasn't run at this trip (two miles) for a long while, but it obviously suited him. That was only his second win over fences so he can run in another of these."
Looking forward to Cue Card, Jacob told Racing UK: "I can't wait. People knocked his comeback run at Exeter but I thought it was a great run, trying to give all that weight to two really smart two-milers in God's Own and Balder Succes."
The small Middleham yard of Simon West can start dreaming of some big days after Maximiser (15-8) maintained his unbeaten record over timber in the Wingate Signs Supports & Superjosh Charity 'Fixed Brush' 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle.
A wide-margin winner on his debut for the yard at Carlisle, he was expected to play second fiddle behind Paul Nicholls' Vago Collonges, but Joe Colliver guided him to an 11-length success over the odd-son favourite.
West said: "I'm over the moon. We've always thought a lot of him, we can't get him off the bridle at home. We didn't' know what he'd beaten at Carlisle, but we can only keep beating what is put in front of us.
"Joe was happy, he felt there were another couple of gears there, and we'll go home and watch the video and open up the programme book."
Nicholls was successful in the Betfair Home Of The Price Rush Novices' Chase with Virak (11-10 favourite), who may have been fortunate that Tizzard's Grand Vision fell at the fourth-last.
Lucinda Russell's Thorpe (25-1) was a lucky winner of the Feel The Rush At Betfair Novices' Hurdle as Jim Best's Kiama Bay was 10 lengths clear when he fell at the last, while the bumper went to Charlie Longsdon's Midnight Shot (evens favourite) in the hands of Charlie Deutsch. ==================================
Puffin Billy got back to winning ways in tremendous style with a foot-perfect display in the Sodexho Beginners' Chase at Ascot.
Oliver Sherwood has always thought the world of the six-year-old, but the wheels fell off last season when he disappointed on his return and was then struck down by colic, and he managed only third on his chasing debut last month.
The 5-2 favourite showed the benefit of that with a springheeled round of jumping this time under a positive ride from Leighton Aspel, and once into a rhythm he was too strong for the highly regarded pair of Killala Quay and The Skyfarmer, a bold jump at the last ensuring he came home eight lengths clear.
Sherwood was delighted for the horse and owner Tim Syder, who has endured a run of misfortune this season, losing a couple of promising horses.
"That was very satisfying as you never quite know if they still have the appetite to win when they come back from problems like he had," said the trainer.
"The will to win is important in a horse, but he showed that he very much still has it. I'm just so pleased for the horse and for Tim, who has had a rough few weeks.
"Ground is quite important to him. He handles good ground but that ground we had there today (soft) is probably ideal, and while he will get three miles in time, I'm happy to keep him at two and a half for now. We won't be going back to two miles now, I wouldn't have thought."
Earlier on the card the Paul Nicholls-trained Arpege D'Alene (12-1) was a most impressive winner of the Geotech Soil Stabilisation 'National Hunt' Maiden Hurdle.
Harry Fry's Jolly's Cracked It (5-4) continues to create a good impression and won again in the Felix Rosenstiel's Widow & Son Introductory Hurdle, despite making a jolting error at the second-last. =================================
Trainer Christy Roche believes Groody Hill is coming back to form at the right time as he bids for a second victory in the Ladbrokes Troytown Chase at Navan on Sunday.
It is three years since the JP McManus-owned gelding struck gold in the prestigious 100,000 euro contest, with injury setbacks limiting him to just five subsequent starts.
He looked a shadow of his former self when returning from a near-two-year absence at the start of 2014, but he made the most of his favourable handicap mark over hurdles when making a winning return to action at Fairyhouse at the start of the month and Roche hopes that will have teed him up perfectly.
"He had a nice run in Fairyhouse and he surprised us a bit that day. That run was all about getting him fit, so it was a nice surprise that he managed to win," said the trainer.
"He's had a good few problems over the past couple of years and lost his way a little bit, but we think we've got him back on form now, hopefully. He seems in very good form and well in himself and we know the ground, the track and the trip suit him well, so there are a lot of positives.
"I don't think many horses will have won the Troytown twice, but fingers crossed he goes there with a big chance."
Groody Hill is one of four horses set to carry the McManus silks, with Nearly Nama'd, Like Your Style and Colbert Station also in contention for the leading owner.
In-form trainer Noel Meade has a similarly strong hand, with Munster National third Bose Ikard joined by three stable companions.
Meade said: "I'm not sure about the ground, but Benemeade, Bose Ikard and Thomond all run, along with Pandorama.
"Pandorama will love the ground, but whether he's good enough now is another thing. Thomond is in great form at the moment."
Shane Broderick's Black Benny got back on the winning trail in a thrilling race at Galway last month and connections believe he is in even better shape now.
Broderick's assistant, Gary Parsons, said: "He's in good form, but the ground would be a bit of a concern. If it stays yielding to soft I'm sure he'd handle it, but he wouldn't want it too heavy, so fingers crossed the weather doesn't get too bad.
"He was only 80 per cent in Galway the last day and we think he's come on a good bit for the run. This race has been the plan for a while and it's just a shame the ground might not be ideal, but we'll give it our best shot."
Gordon Elliott is triple-handed, with Chicago Grey, Vasco Du Mee and Balbriggan, while Tony Martin saddles Living Next Door and Wrong Turn.
Subtle Ben is an outsider for Liz Doyle and the trainer is keeping her fingers crossed ground conditions do not deteriorate.
She said: "He won his beginners in Limerick but was under the weather for his first race of the season at Cork. I'm hoping he can step up from that back in a handicap.
"He's a real stayer, a good jumper and, touch-wood, Noel O'Brien (handicapper) hasn't been too hard on him. The ground could be an issue as he wouldn't want it heavy." ===================================
A return to the Cheltenham Festival in March is top of the agenda for Big Shu following his pleasing reappearance at Punchestown last weekend.
Peter Maher's stable star claimed Festival glory in the 2013 Glenfarclas Handicap Chase over the cross country fences, but came up short when defending his crown in March, managing only an honourable third behind Balthazar King.
Big Shu then headed to Aintree for a tilt at the Grand National, but tipped up after just three fences, leaving connections dejected.
The nine-year-old was a hot favourite to make a winning return over the banks at Punchestown on Saturday and although he had to make do with minor honours, Maher was quite happy with his performance.
The trainer said: "If you go through his form, he always improves for his first run. The year he won in Cheltenham he was fourth in a point-to-point on his first run of the season, so I was quite happy with where we are with him at the moment.
"I don't know why everybody was backing him the other day. I knew he'd improve for the run, it turned into a sprint and he just blew up."
The County Kildare-based trainer is confident he can get Big Shu back to Cheltenham in better shape than he was last spring.
"Last year I spent the whole year training him for the National and as a result he went back to Cheltenham a bit short in March," said Maher.
"He ran well in Cheltenham to finish third and I was quite happy, but then when he went to Aintree and it was all over after three fences. I was a bit sick as I was looking back at Cheltenham and thinking I'd let the horse down as he wasn't straight enough.
"This year we'll train him for the Cheltenham race and see what happens after that.
"All going well, the plan would be to have a race before Christmas. He could go for the cross country in Cheltenham, or he might go to Down Royal for the big hunter chase up there, as he qualifies for hunter chases now.
"Then we'll run him in the banks race at Punchestown in February and then on to Cheltenham. That would be the plan, anyway. We'll see about Aintree after that."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 21, 2014 19:10:28 GMT
Wolverhampton, 21 Nov 14
Race 1 - 4:10pm THE #20 RISK-FREE BET AT UNIBET APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES The Stewards considered the running of SALVADO (IRE), ridden by Rob Hornby and trained by Tony Carroll, which finished unplaced. They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 2 - 4:40pm THE UNIBET OFFER DAILY JOCKEY/TRAINER SPECIALS MAIDEN STAKES The Stewards held an enquiry to consider why Stevie Donohoe, the rider of AUSSIE SKY (IRE), unplaced, had appeared not to keep straight from the stalls. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the start they found him in breach of Rule (B)45.2 and suspended him for 1 day as follows: Friday 5 December 2014.
The representative of Mark H Tompkins, the trainer of BLUE BOUNTY, placed third, reported that the gelding was struck into.
Race 3 - 5:15pm THE 32Red HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Jimmy Quinn, the rider of the winner, TOPALING, one and three quarter furlongs out. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he used his whip above the permitted level. The Stewards suspended Quinn for 2 days as follows: Friday 5 and Saturday 6 December 2014.
Race 4 - 5:50pm THE 32Red.com MAIDEN AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Tom Eaves, the rider of the winner, ORACOLO (IRE), in the closing stages. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the race, they found him in breach of Schedule (B)6 Part 2 in that he used his whip without giving his horse time to respond. The Stewards suspended Eaves for 3 days as follows: Friday 5, Saturday 6 and Monday 8 December 2014.
Race 5 - 6:20pm THE coral.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The Stewards noted that HICKSTER (IRE), unplaced, hung left carrying SNOW DANCER (IRE) off her line, causing PERSEVERENT PETE (USA) to check approaching the final furlong, but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.
Eoin Walsh, the rider of FLYING APPLAUSE, unplaced, reported that the gelding missed the break.
View Stewards Report Ffos Las, 21 Nov 14
Race 2 - 1:10pm THE IWEC ELECTRICAL 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE The Stewards held an enquiry into the use of the whip by Alain Cawley, the rider of AN POC AR BUILE (IRE), placed second, from entering the home straight . 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 Cawley for 4 days as follows: Friday 5, Sunday 7, Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 December 2014.
Race 5 - 2:50pm THE 32Red HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) The representative of Anthony Honeyball, the trainer of AS DE FER (FR), which was pulled up, reported that the gelding had a breathing problem.
View Stewards Report Haydock Park, 21 Nov 14
Race 1 - 12:50pm THE BROWN SHIPLEY WEALTH WELL MANAGED HANDICAP HURDLE RACE The Stewards held an enquiry into the fall of Mr H A A Bannister the rider of WHO OWNS ME (IRE), on the home bend on the first circuit. They interviewed Mr Bannister, having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the incident the Stewards were satisfied that the fall was caused by WHO OWNS ME (IRE) slipping which caused him to fall and that as no other horse or rider was involved so took no further action.
The Stewards considered the apparent improvement in form of the winner, CLOSING CEREMONY (IRE), ridden by Daryl Jacob and trained by Emma Lavelle, compared with its previous run at Chepstow on 25 October 2014 where the gelding finished tenth of twelve, beaten 75 lengths. They noted the trainer’s explanation that the gelding was better suited by the forcing tactics on this occasion. They ordered CLOSING CEREMONY (IRE) to be routine tested.
The Stewards held an enquiry into the running and riding of MASTER MALT, placed fourth, beaten 8¾ lengths, ridden by Raymond O’Brien and trained by Jonjo O’Neill, which appeared to be tenderly handled around the final bend and into the home straight. They interviewed the rider and the trainer’s representative. They also received a report from the Veterinary Officer and observations from the Handicapper. The rider stated his instructions were to jump off in a handy position and to do his best. He went on to say that he got slightly squeezed at the start which resulted in him being further back than ideal but that the gelding travelled and jumped well throughout the race. Addressing his riding from the end of the back straight he explained that he lost his position going into the final bend and had to sit and wait until he got a clear run which came having jumped the third last. When asking him for his effort he found MASTER MALT sluggish to pick up on ground which he considered may have been slower than ideal and was only passing tired horses on the run to the line. The trainer’s representative stated that he was satisfied with the ride but felt that the gelding would have been better served by being ridden more prominently. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race the Stewards noted their explanations.
Harry Skelton, the rider of STORM OF SWORDS (IRE), reported that the gelding slipped on the final bend.
Race 2 - 1:20pm THE OAK LOANS AND MORTGAGE GRADUATION STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Ruby Walsh, the rider of TURBAN (FR), placed fourth, reported that the gelding didn't jump fluently.
Race 3 - 1:55pm THE FEEL THE RUSH AT BETFAIR NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) The Stewards considered the running of STEPHANIE FRANCES (IRE) ridden by Harry Skelton and trained by Dan Skelton, which finished unplaced. The Stewards noted the rider’s report that the mare stopped quickly as though something was amiss. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of STEPHANIE FRANCES (IRE) during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Non-Race related incidents Following the fall of WHO OWNS ME (IRE), trained by Michael Easterby and STORM OF SWORDS (IRE), trained by Dan Skelton, slipping, on the bend entering the home straight, both the bends were spiked.
View Stewards Report Ascot, 21 Nov 14
Race 3 - 2:05pm THE FELIX ROSENSTIEL'S WIDOW & SON INTRODUCTORY HURDLE RACE The Stewards held an enquiry into why, once the starter’s flag had been dropped signifying that the race had started, a further nineteen seconds elapsed before the runners crossed the starting line and began to race. They heard evidence from Tom Cannon, the rider of JEBRIL (FR), placed second, Nick Scholfield, the rider of the winner, JOLLY’S CRACKED IT (FR), Barry Geraghty, the rider of CLONDAW BANKER (IRE), placed third, Mark Quinlan, the rider of GENERAL MONTGOMERY (IRE), placed fifth, Noel Fehily, the rider of WILBERDRAGON, placed fourth, and Leighton Aspell, the rider of KAYFLIN (FR), placed sixth. Having also received a report from the Starters, and heard observations from the Handicapper that only one JEBRIL (FR) had ever made the running in the past and that was when racing on the flat, they noted the riders’ explanations that they had all been instructed by their trainers to settle in which led to the delay in finding positions before jumping off but also drew their attention to their responsibilities to begin the race proper once the Starter’s flag has been dropped.
Race 4 - 2:40pm THE WINKWORTH HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Noel Fehily, the rider of LYSINO (GER), which was pulled up, reported that the gelding moved poorly throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
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