Horse Racing News Etc.

[Kimmy]

Haydock Park, 20 Oct 17
Fixture Note
Abandonded - Waterlogged
Nothing to report
View Stewards report
Fakenham, 20 Oct 17
Race 1 - 2:05pm
THE SAMANTHA COLE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' SELLING HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5)
On the bend into the back straight, the winner, CLIFFSIDE PARK (IRE), shifted slightly left causing Jason Nuttall, the rider of OSGOOD, unplaced, to take a slight check, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.


Jason Nuttall was fined £290 following a report from the Stipendiary Steward that he had observed Nuttall using his mobile phone outside the designated area. The rider and the Stipendiary Steward were interviewed.

Race 2 - 2:40pm
THE DOWNLOAD THE AT THE RACES APP HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)
Prior to this race, the representative of Dan Skelton, the trainer of ONE FOR BILLY, was asked to explain why he was running the gelding here at Fakenham described as Good, having declared the gelding a non-runner at Fontwell 6 October 2017, where the going was described as Good. The representative of Skelton explained that after walking the course at Fontwell, the trainer considered the going to be quicker than described.


The performance of DANCEINTOTHELIGHT which finished unplaced, was considered. Mr T. Gillard reported that the gelding was never travelling. The representative of Donald McCain could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance.

Race 5 - 4:25pm
THE VISIT attheraces.com/jumps HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3)
GOWANAUTHAT (IRE) wore ear plugs which were removed at the start.
View Stewards report
Redcar, 20 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:30pm
THE ALL NEW racinguk.com BRITISH EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for SHAKIAH (IRE) to go early to post.


An enquiry was held into the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of NATIONAL ANTHEM, which was found to be lame at the start and withdrawn on Veterinary advice at 1:27pm. The Veterinary Officer, the Veterinary Surgeon, an Equine Welfare and Integrity Officer, the groom, the box driver and the owner’s representative were interviewed. Having considered their evidence, a report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.


Following the race, Adam McNamara reported that WRENTHORPE, placed second, hung left in the closing stages.

Race 2 - 2:00pm
THE RACING UK PROFITS RETURNED TO RACING CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6)
Joe Fanning, the rider of the winner, ONE FOR JUNE (IRE) was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level.


Paul Mulrennan, the rider of GRIMEFORD LANE (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 4 days for using his whip above the permitted level.

Race 3 - 2:35pm
THE SAM HALL MEMORIAL HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
Approximately 3 furlongs out, SHERIFF GARRETT (IRE), placed second, hung quickly left hampering MR GLOBETROTTER (USA), unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved and that it had not improved the placing of SHERIFF GARRETT (IRE).


The winner, INGLEBY HOLLOW, appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Haydock on 29 September 2017 where the gelding finished eighth of eight, beaten by 22 lengths. The trainer’s representative explained that INGLEBY HOLLOW benefitted from a change in tactics by being ridden patiently. The gelding was routine tested.


Following the race, Dougie Costello reported that DEEP CHALLENGER (IRE), unplaced, was never travelling and hung right. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. Harrison Shaw reported that SAVED BY THE BELL (IRE), placed third, hung left throughout.

Race 5 - 3:45pm
THE RACING UK IN GLORIOUS HD HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for TEOMARIA to wear a hood in the Parade Ring.


John Egan, the rider of the winner, HITMAN, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level.


Following the race, Josh Doyle reported that DUTCH ARTIST (IRE), unplaced, was slowly into stride and the Veterinary Officer reported that SHOWDANCE KID, unplaced, lost its left hind shoe.

Race 6 - 4:20pm
THE WATCH RACING UK ANYWHERE MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5)
Michael Dods had obtained prior permission from the BHA to run LIMONCINO (IRE) partially shod.


An enquiry was held as to why the numbers on the rear of the stalls had been incorrectly labelled, causing Jason Hart, the rider of GIVE IT SOME TEDDY, and William Cox, the rider of NINEDARTER, to be originally entered into the wrong stalls. The riders, the Starters and the Stalls Leader were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Having heard their evidence, a report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.


Following the race, Ben Robinson reported that DANDYS DENOUEMENT, unplaced, hung left throughout.

Race 7 - 4:55pm
THE WATCH RACE REPLAYS AT racinguk.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (FOR LADY AMATEUR RIDERS ) (DIV I)
Approaching the final ½ furlong, POLAR FOREST, unplaced, hung quickly left into the path of ROCK ISLAND LINE, unplaced, which in turn caused BOLLIN TED, unplaced, to be momentarily eased, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.

Race 8 - 5:25pm
THE WATCH RACE REPLAYS AT racinguk.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (FOR LADY AMATEUR RIDERS ) (DIV II)
Approaching the home bend, OPTIMA PETAMUS, unplaced, edged marginally left causing CHAMPAGNE PINK (FR), unplaced, to be slightly checked, after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.


Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that OPTIMA PETAMUS, unplaced, lost a right fore shoe.
View Stewards report
Wincanton, 20 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:40pm
THE JOCKEY CLUB CATERING NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)
Jeremy Scott was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of TIKKINTHEBOX (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing.

Race 3 - 2:50pm
THE BET AT racinguk.com HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3)
Permission was given for THUNDERING HOME to go early to post.

Race 4 - 3:25pm
THE RACING UK HD ON SKY 432 NOVICES' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4)
Following the race Liam Treadwell reported that ORIENTAL FIXER (IRE) cocked its jaw and ran left-handed off the track after jumping the water jump on the final circuit, forcing him to pull the gelding up.
View Stewards report
Newcastle, 20 Oct 17
Race 1 - 4:40pm
THE GLOBAL'S MAKE SOME NOISE FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for ROYAL ICON, to be mounted in the chute and go to post early.


Following the race, trainer Robyn Brisland reported that STEPNEY, unplaced ran too free. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Race 2 - 5:10pm
THE CAPITAL NORTH EAST HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV I)
Following the race, Shane Gray reported that HEDIDDODINTHE (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away and hung left in the home straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that BAHAMIAN C, unplaced, finished lame left fore.

Race 3 - 5:40pm
THE CAPITAL NORTH EAST HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV II)
Permission was given for SOMNAMBULIST to go to post early.


The performance of SOMNAMBULIST which started favourite but finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of trainer Keith Dalgleish 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.


Following the race, David Egan reported that KNIGHTSBRIDGE LIAM (IRE), unplaced, ran too free and hung right throughout.

Race 5 - 6:45pm
THE NIGHTMARE AT THE RACECOURSE NOVICE AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 6)
Following the race, Andrew Mullen reported that AMITY ISLAND, unplaced, hung right throughout.

Race 6 - 7:15pm
THE HEART NORTH EAST HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
It was noted that inside the final furlong, PICKETT’S CHARGE, unplaced, shifted left creating a knock-on effect to HERNANDO TORRES, unplaced, ALFIE’S ANGEL (IRE), unplaced, and KREB’S CYCLE (IRE), unplaced. However, after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that it did not involve a riding offence and had not improved the placing of PICKETT’S CHARGE.


It was noted that approximately ½ furlong out, MAJDOOL (IRE), placed fourth, moved slightly right onto the winner NEWMARKET WARRIOR (IRE), which created a knock-on effect to ACRUX, placed third, WASM, unplaced, and PICKETT’S CHARGE, unplaced. However, after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that it did not involve a riding offence and had not improved the placing of MAJDOOL (IRE).


Following the race, Phillip Makin reported that PICKETT’S CHARGE, unplaced, hung left from 2 furlongs out.

Phil Dennis reported that THELLO, placed second, was denied a clear run 1 ½ furlongs out. Josephine Gordon reported that KREB’S CYCLE (IRE), unplaced, ran flat.

Race 7 - 7:45pm
THE HEART BREAKFAST WITH JUSTIN AND KELLY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6)
Adam Beschizza, the rider of SEE YOU MUSH, placed second, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level.


An enquiry was held to consider interference inside the final furlong when SEE YOU MUSH, placed second, ridden by Adam Beschizza, drifted left moving the winner, CAPTAIN HAWK, ridden by Josephine Gordon, slightly off its intended line. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Beschizza was cautioned for careless riding in that he allowed his mount to drift left without sufficient correction.

Race 8 - 8:15pm
THE GLOBAL NORTH EAST TRICK OR TREAT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
Inside the final furlong, THE AMBER FORT (USA), unplaced, shifted left taking PERFECT SYMPHONY (IRE), placed fourth, off its intended line, which caused CONTROL CENTRE (IRE), unplaced, to be eased. However, after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that it did not involve a riding offence.


Following the race, Jason Hart reported that BENJAMIN THOMAS (IRE), unplaced, missed the break.

[Kimmy]

Strong winds expected to hit Ascot on Champions Day
20 Oct 17
Strong winds expected to hit Ascot on Champions Day
Ascot will have to batten down the hatches on Qipco British Champions Day with a yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office.

The course is set to feel the force of Storm Brian, which will be tracking a route across Ireland and Britain, producing possible strong winds and heavy isolated showers throughout Saturday at the Berkshire venue.

A yellow warning gives notice to affected areas to "be aware" and comes into force at 4am.

Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said: "There is going to be a fair amount of rain ahead of racing, with the forecast for around 10 millimetres or so of rain.

"There is the possibility of an isolated heavy shower on raceday, but Ascot does fall in the area under a yellow warning for wind, with possible gusts of 45 to 55 miles per hour.

"That is obviously not a continual wind speed, but with gusts of that order there is the potential for disruption. It's not the level of wind we saw with Ophelia earlier in the week, but it is a strong wind."

The ground is already described as soft and more rain is on the way, but clerk of the course Chris Stickels does not envisage conditions worsening much further.

"We've had 12 millimetres (of rain) this week and seven in the last 24 hours. The going is soft at the moment," he said.

"We can expect a few more showers, there's a pretty strong wind, it's bright and breezy today (Friday).

"The wind is due to pick up overnight with a few showers, high winds are forecast tomorrow with another five or six millimetres of rain possible but I wouldn't have thought that will alter the ground."

While the rain is not expected to cause too much of a problem for the horses, the strong gusts of wind could prove problematic for all.

Stickels told Racing UK: "Forecasts are suggesting gusts of up to 40-50mph, while it will be constant at 25mph.

"It is coming from the south west so the grandstand should protect the last furlong but as they turn into the straight on the round course it will be a headwind. The ground was in lovely condition earlier in the week so it will take the rain.

"There was a lot of talk at the beginning over whether this meeting would work, but it has grown in popularity and the quality of the fields are excellent.

"We've a big crowd coming so let's hope the gale doesn't ruin anyone's fun."

[Kimmy]

Storm Brian causing concern for Fairyhouse officials
Officials at Fairyhouse are monitoring the weather ahead of Saturday's fixture as Storm Brian threatens the meeting.

A decision will be taken at 8am as to whether the meeting will go ahead.

"We have been in contact with Met Eireann today (Friday) and there's a probability of very strong winds tomorrow afternoon," said racecourse manager Peter Roe.

"In the interests of the safety of horses, racing professionals and racegoers, and all those travelling to and from Fairyhouse tomorrow, in consultation with the clerk of the course, Brendan Sheridan, we have decided the best course of events is to make a more accurate judgement call at 8am tomorrow morning.

"By then Met Eireann will have up-to-date information on what course Storm Brian is taking and the likely strength of winds, and together with the clerk of the course, we will be able to make the most appropriate decision at that juncture."

[Kimmy]

Two of the most popular jumpers in training take each other on for the first time when former Champion Chase winner Sire De Grugy meets perennial Champion Hurdle contender The New One.

Ffos Las is the venue for their clash in the Ladbrokes Welsh Champion Hurdle – a limited handicap worth £45,000 and switched from February in the hope of attracting better horses and having better ground – in which topweight The New One concedes 13lb to Sire De Grugy and probable favourite Clyne, plus more to the rest.

[Kimmy]

The apprentice title race is set for a nail-biting finish after Kieran Shoemark rode a double at Newcastle on Friday evening.

It means he ended the day just one winner behind David Egan (53-52) with one meeting to go.

The pair will take it right to the wire, not at Ascot, but at Catterick on Saturday where Egan has three rides and Shoemark five, the last of them at 4.40.

At the start of play on Friday, Shoemark looked to face a formidable task as he was three winners behind with two days to go, but he grabbed one back when riding Line House for Robyn Brisland in the novice stakes and then set up the prospect of a thrilling finish on Saturday by scoring on Newmarket Warrior for Iain Jardine in the mile handicap.

Although both are in action at Catterick, Egan is there for only part of the card and might well be on his way for the first of his three rides at Wolverhampton's evening meeting before the outcome is finally decided.

Shoemark's Catterick rides

1.50 Immortal Romance 4-1 (forecast SP)
2.25 Zahraa 25-1
3.30 Equimou 9-1
4.05 Peterhouse 7-1
4.40 Portledge 10-1

Egan's Catterick rides

2.25 Lady Willpower 20-1
3.30 Memories Galore 13-2
4.05 Sellingallthetime 7-1

[dennisg]

IN TODAY'S SPORTING LIFE...........

Champions Day Race Programme
1.25 - QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup (Group 2) (Class 1)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
Established in 1873 as the Jockey Club Cup, this race was run at Newmarket until 2011, when it was moved to Ascot and renamed the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup. With two demanding miles (3,200 metres) of Ascot’s famous turf to negotiate, it provides a thorough test of stamina for Flat racing’s top stayers as they contest the final major long-distance race of the British season. The seven races in the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance category vary in distance from the extended mile and six furlongs (2,920 metres) of Doncaster’s St Leger to the two and a half miles (4,000 metres) of the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. The intermediate two-mile trip of the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup therefore provides the perfect distance for the category finale.
2.00 - QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes (Group 1) (Class 1)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
In 2015, the QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes was upgraded from Group 2 to Group 1 status and, in response to its enhanced prestige, the race’s value was boosted from £350,000 to £600,000 establishing it as Europe’s joint-most valuable sprint. This six-furlong (1,200 metres) contest provides the grand finale to the seven-race QIPCO British Champions Sprint division. There are three Series races run over five furlongs (1,000 metres) and four, including today’s contest, over six furlongs. Many sprinters tend to specialise over one of these distances, but the true greats have the versatility to excel over both trips. The QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes has evolved from the Diadem Stakes, which was first run at Ascot in 1946. The first running under its current name was won by Deacon Blues, trained in Newmarket by James Fanshawe, in 2011.
2.40 - QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes (Group 1) (Class 1)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
The genealogy of the QIPCO British Champions Fillies’ And Mares’ Stakes dates back to 1946, when Ascot staged the Princess Royal Stakes for the first time. In 2008 it was renamed the Pride Stakes and moved to Newmarket, but it returned to Ascot under its current name in 2011. The new race was given a boost in its very first year as it was won by none other than the Investec Oaks and Preis der Diana (German Oaks) winner, Dancing Rain, a dual Classic heroine having her final European start. Simple Verse was the second Classic winner to claim the spoils in its short recent history when successful in 2015. The race was awarded Group 1 status in 2013 and now boasts prize money of £600,000, the latest increase of £50,000 making it Britain’s joint-most valuable fillies-only race.
3.15 - Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Group 1) (Sponsored By QIPCO) (Class 1)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
Long recognised as Europe’s mile championship, 1,600 metre races come no bigger than this anywhere on the international stage. Carrying a cool £1.1 million in prizemoney, the race has entered a different stratosphere in financial terms, boosted from £250,000 in 2010 when it was run at Ascot’s late September meeting. It is now by far the richest mile race in Europe and one of the most valuable anywhere in the world. Named in honour of The Queen in 1955, the race has a roll of honour packed full of stars, including Brigadier Gerard (1971 & 1972), Known Fact (1980), Dubai Millennium (1999) and the awesome Frankel, who took the contest in 2011 in effortless fashion. The race also holds special memories for Frankie Dettori. It provided him with his first-ever Group 1 victory thanks to Markofdistinction in 1990 and six years later Mark Of Esteem was the third leg of his ‘Magnificent Seven’ when he won all seven races on that famous (or infamous if you were a bookmaker) Ascot card.
3.50 - QIPCO Champion Stakes (Group 1) (Class 1)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
With £1.3 million in prize money, the QIPCO Champion Stakes over 1 mile 2 furlongs (2,000 metres) is the most valuable ten-furlong race in Europe. Following on from iconic races like the Investec Derby and King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes sponsored by QIPCO, this is the final, pulsating showdown in the British Champions Series Middle Distance division. The race brought a great heritage with it from Newmarket, where it had been run from its inception in 1877 until 2010. But the dramatic injection in prize money that accompanied its move to become the glittering highlight of the new QIPCO British Champions Day has changed its status completely. Each of the six renewals in the race’s new surroundings have produced top-quality fields and thrilling finishes. The first set the bar high, with French raider Cirrus Des Aigles getting the better of Aussie superstar So You Think with two champion mares, Snow Fairy and Midday, further behind. For quality and drama few races could ever match the 2012 running, when Frankel completed his career unbeaten despite unsuitable ground and a very slow start from the stalls. 2013 saw Farhh prevail in a three-way battle, while in 2014 we were treated to a spine-tingling duel between Al Kazeem and Noble Mission, who ultimately came out on top for Lady Cecil. In 2015, QIPCO British Champions Day dream team Dermot Weld and Pat Smullen (who have each enjoyed four winners on the day over the past six years) pounced late to land the spoils with Fascinating Rock. And then last year Almanzor capped a fine season with another brilliant victory.
4.30 - Balmoral Handicap (Sponsored By QIPCO) (Str) (Class 2)
Click here for full racecard & free video form
Named after the castle in Scotland that has belonged to the British Royal Family since it was purchased by Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria, in 1852, the Balmoral Handicap was inaugurated in 2014. A race known as the Balmoral Handicap had previously been staged over five furlongs at the Royal Meeting, discontinued in 2004 in favour of the new Windsor Forest Stakes for fillies and mares. The Ascot Executive always intended to bring the name back when the appropriate opportunity arose, and Her Majesty The Queen graciously consented to it being re-introduced on QIPCO British Champions Day. The new Balmoral Handicap Sponsored by QIPCO, with its £250,000 race value, is the richest one-mile (1,600 metre) handicap in Europe. In its inaugural running, the race could not have had a more popular winner than Marcus Tregoning’s Bronze Angel, who had built up a legion of fans via his two triumphs, in 2012 and 2014, in another of Britain’s most prestigious handicaps, the Betfred Cambridgeshire. His victory also showcased an exciting new riding talent in the shape of 20-year-old Louis Steward. In 2015, although open to all jockeys, it was another apprentice who stole the show when 17-year-old Eddy Greatrex scored aboard Musaddas for Godolphin. A more established name, Andrea Atzeni, guided Yuften to success in last year's renewal.
Champions Day: Latest News
Champions Day declarations: 10 set for Champion
Ulysses was a surprise omission as 10 horses were declared in the final field for Saturday's QIPCO British Champion Stakes.
Brametot primed for big run
Everything is in place for Brametot to run a good race in the QIPCO Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday, according to his connections.
Regular outside Flat track to be used
Ascot's regular Flat-racing track will be used on QIPCO Champions Day, clerk of the course Chris Stickels said in a statement.
Dettori excited by Cracksman
Frankie Dettori has no qualms about Cracksman dropping back in trip for the QIPCO Champion Stakes as he looks forward to a stellar book of rides at Ascot on Saturday.
O'Brien to be crowned at Ascot
Aidan O’Brien will officially be crowned British Champion Trainer 2017 at QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot on Saturday.
Ascot rain plea for 4/1 Bateel
Francis Graffard would like to see some rain ahead of Bateel's bid for glory in the QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.
Stars align for Champion clash
Ulysses is one of several superstar names in what promises to be a scintillating QIPCO Champion Stakes, which is Europe’s most valuable mile and a quarter race and worth £1.3 million.
Angel primed for Sprint to savour
Harry Angel, superb winner of the Darley July Cup and 32Red Sprint Cup, heads a stellar entry of 14 in the mix for the QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes.
Weld plans Champions Day raid
Dermot Weld plans to run fellow Aga Khan filly Eziyra on Champions Day at Ascot on Saturday.
Champions Day Audio
All our latest interviews ahead of Champions Day, including Frankie Dettori
Group 1 winners entered for British Champions Day
(Number of Group 1 wins they have achieved in brackets plus the races they have won - this year unless stated)

The QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup (£450,000)

Big Orange (1) Gold Cup
Order Of St George (3) Gold Cup (2016), Irish St Leger (2015 and 2017)
Sheikhzayedroad (1) Northern Dancer Turf Stakes (2014)
Seventh Heaven (2): Irish Oaks (2016), Yorkshire Oaks (2016)
Stradivarius (1): Goodwood Cup
The QIPCO British Champions Sprint (£600,000)

Brando (1) Prix Maurice de Gheest
The Tin Man (2) Diamond Jubilee Stakes, British Champions Sprint (2017)
Caravaggio (2) Commonwealth Cup, Phoenix Stakes (2016)
Harry Angel (2) July Cup, Sprint Cup
Quiet Reflection (2) Commonwealth Cup (2016), Sprint Cup (2016)
The QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes (£600,000)

Bateel (1) Prix Vermeille
Journey (1) British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes
Left Hand (1) Prix Vermeille (2016)
Seventh Heaven (2): Irish Oaks (2016), Yorkshire Oaks (2016)
Smart Call (3) J&B Met (2016), Maine Chance Farms Paddock Stakes (2016),Woolavington 2000 (2015)
Hydrangea (1) Matron Stakes
Rhododendron (2) Prix de l’Opera, Fillies Mile (2016)
Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (sponsored by QIPCO) (£1.1 million)

Here Comes When (1) Sussex Stakes
Ribchester (4) Lockinge Stakes, Queen Anne Stakes, Prix du Moulin, Jacques Le Marois (2016)
Al Wukair (1) Jacques Le Marois
Barney Roy (1) St James’s Palace Stakes
Churchill (4) 2000 Guineas, Irish 2000 Guineas, National Stakes (2016), Dewhurst (2016)
Thunder Snow (2) Prix Jean Prat, Criterium International (2016)
Roly Poly (3) Falmouth, Prix Rothschild, Sun Chariot Stakes
QIPCO Champion Stakes (£1.3 million)

Highland Reel (6) Coronation Cup, Prince of Wales’s Stakes, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2016), Breeders’ Cup Turf (2016), Secretariat Stakes (2015), Breeders’ Cup Turf (2015)
Ulysses (2) Coral-Eclipse, Juddmonte International
Barney Roy (1) St James’s Palace Stakes
Brametot (2) Poule d'Essai des Poulains, Prix du Jockey Club
Churchill (4) 2000 Guineas, Irish 2000 Guineas, National Stakes (2016), Dewhurst (2016)
Hydrangea (1) Matron Stakes
Rhododendron (2) Prix de l’Opera, Fillies Mile (2016)

[dennisg]

Ben Linfoot seeks out the best Value Bets on QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot on Saturday, with Librisa Breeze fancied in the Sprint.

The rain has arrived in significant enough quantity to turn the ground soft at Ascot ahead of Champions Day and with more showers and very strong winds to factor in as well on race day it looks like being hard work for Saturday’s star cast.

The most intriguing race on the card is the QIPCO Champion Stakes as the market leaders, Cracksman and Barney Roy, have questions to answer, namely the trip for the former and the deteriorating ground for the latter.

Cracksman has improved throughout the season and could well be at the peak of his powers, although connections have continually stressed we won’t see the finished article until next year when he races on at four.

That’s not to say he isn’t ready for this assignment now, but the 10-furlong trip is a real worry given all of his improvement has come over a mile and a half. It’s a valid concern that he won’t have the pace for this, even in the worsening ground, and with that in mind he looks very short at 7/4.

Barney Roy brings good form to the table but the softer conditions have to be a worry for such a good mover on faster ground. He looked at his best in the height of summer, in the St James’s Palace Stakes and Coral-Eclipse on good to firm, so this is a significant unknown quantity.

Highland Reel needs faster ground, too, while stablemate Cliffs Of Moher keeps on being unlucky and who’s to say he won’t be again from his inside draw in one? If he gets a smooth run, he’s a danger, but that isn’t a given from his starting berth.

The two I’d be concentrating on are Poet’s Word and Brametot, with slight preference for the former at 13/2. He’s improving, will be fine on the ground, reportedly sparkled in some work at the start of the week and big-race jockey Andrea Atzeni takes over in the saddle.

I’m just not quite convinced that his Irish Champion form is as worthy as it looks, yet, so I’ll be leaving the race alone and the same can be said of the QEII as I don’t want to take Ribchester on at a track he absolutely loves.

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There are plenty of other betting opportunities on the card, though, starting with the opening QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup at 1.25.

Order Of St George is the form horse in this race and he is the one to beat, of that there is no doubt, but I don’t think he’s the odds-on shot the market would have you believe.

A winner of three of his last nine starts, he is a horse that needs things to go his way and he was turned over in this race at 4/6 last year after a muddling gallop caught him out.

If Big Orange is a non-runner, a likely scenario considering the conditions, there isn’t an awful lot of obvious pace once again and Order Of St George could well be outmanoeuvred by something with mile and a half pace if they are better positioned.

DURETTO strikes me as potentially one such horse and he is worth backing at 11/1 (Paddy Power, BetVictor).

5
11

Duretto35
59-7OR: 112C
12/1
Form: 2251-31T: A M BaldingJ: G Lee
Last run
Andrew Balding’s charge loves testing ground, as he showed at Chester last time, and he loves Ascot too, having won at the track twice and being second on two other occasions.

He's getting better with age as you would expect from this family, his half-brother Nabatean was the same, and he shapes like a real stayer, so there’s plenty of potential improvement to come from him at this trip.

His career best came at Chester in May, when he gave weight to Western Hymn and wasn’t beaten far despite finding trouble in-running, and though a setback saw him miss the summer the good thing is he comes into this a relatively fresh horse.

Unbeaten in two runs for Graham Lee, he should get plenty of cover from the elements held up in midfield before being unleashed for a late challenge in the straight.

Duretto loves Ascot and remains open to improvement
Duretto loves Ascot and remains open to improvement
I was going to leave it at that, but with DARTMOUTH drifting to 22/1 (Betfair Sportsbook, Paddy Power) he’s got to be worth a small interest as well.

He stayed the trip well at York when beaten a nose by Montaly in August, and he was carrying a 3lb penalty that day for his Group Two win at the same track back in May.

Those two efforts over staying trips put him right in the mix here and it should be remembered the best performance of his career came at Ascot when he beat Highland Reel in the Hardwicke Stakes.

He handled soft ground well on the Knavesmire when winning the Yorkshire Cup at the start of the season and if Jim Crowley can get him settled in a nice position just off the leaders he’s going to have a much better chance than odds of 22/1 suggest.


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Our @benlinfoot makes Dartmouth one of his Value Bets for #ChampionsDay
8:28 PM - Oct 20, 2017
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4
4

Dartmouth41
59-7OR: 115C
10/1
Form: 22-1428T: Sir Michael StouteJ: Jim Crowley
Last run
In the QIPCO British Champions Sprint Harry Angel is very much the one to beat, but this is going to be his toughest test yet.

He’s 0 from 3 at Ascot and given his exuberance it’s perhaps no surprise his best form has come on flatter tracks, while he won’t be allowed an easy time of things up front given what happened at Haydock on his latest start.

With Aidan O’Brien running four from Ballydoyle there’s every chance he’s going to be pestered on the front end in a bid to set things up for Caravaggio, but such tactics could well play into the hands of another rival in LIBRISA BREEZE at 14/1 (General).

His owner Tony Bloom landed a monster gamble when his Withhold won the Cesarewitch last weekend but Librisa Breeze remains his best horse even if he has managed to attain the tag of being unlucky/hard to win with.

A come-from-behind running style isn’t always easy to employ in the sort of races he’s been lining up in, but that astonishing last-to-first burst at this track in last year’s Challenge Cup lives long in the memory.

4
3

Librisa Breeze63
59-2OR: 112BFC
12/1
Form: 416-492T: D K IvoryJ: R Winston
Last run
Live betting powered by
Unlucky not to finish closer here a couple of times subsequently in Group Ones, including in this race last year, things haven’t dropped Librisa Breeze’s way but he goes very well in soft ground at this course and things could drop in his favour on Saturday.


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This win from Librisa Breeze lives long in the memory and Ben Linfoot expects him to go very close on #ChampionsDay
9:26 PM - Oct 20, 2017
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Considering the strong winds forecast, it could well pay to be covered up and if the Ballydoyle contingent make this a real test then a seven-furlong horse like Librisa Breeze could well reap the benefit.

Godolphin are fancied to enhance their Balmoral Handicap record with Linguistic
Godolphin are fancied to enhance their Balmoral Handicap record with Linguistic
Finally, I like the look of LINGUISTIC at 25/1 (General) in the closing Balmoral Handicap.

John Gosden has trained all three runners-up in the Balmoral but Godolphin have won it before with Musaddas and you have to think they had a big pool of horses to choose from for the race once again.

That they rely on Linguistic could be significant and I thought he ran a really good race at York last week behind Dark Red, who reopposes off 6lb worse terms, and Syphax, after being caught wide throughout.

He travelled particularly well and was one of the last off the bridle, shaping as though he’d appreciate the drop in trip to a stiff mile.

The ground is an unknown with him, but he has a high enough knee action to suggest he’ll cope with it well and you would think as much considering he’s a Lope De Vega gelding out of a Montjeu mare.

9
1

Linguisticp7
49-4OR: 103BF
20/1
Form: 228-203T: J H M GosdenJ: W Buick
Last run
Live betting powered by
On the pick of his form he looks reasonably handicapped off 103 and his far-side draw doesn’t look a negative with a good bit of pace drawn nearby.

Among the others drawn low is Lord Glitters, who looks to have had the perfect preparation for this. He’s 4lb well-in, will love the ground and the return to a mile. He hasn’t been missed by the market this time, unfortunately, but he’s definitely the one they all have to beat.

Recommended Bets: Value Bet, Champions Day




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Sky Bet are offering EXTRA VALUE to followers of the Sporting Life Value Bet column with guaranteed advertised prices for at least 15 minutes from 1715 BST on the day of publication.

Ben Linfoot's Value Bet aim: The Value Bet is designed to generate long-term profit by searching for overpriced horses in the feature weekend races and at the big Festivals in the UK. Running total: +338.39pts to advised stakes/prices (from inception of Value Bet column in January 2010 to current).

[dennisg]

Racing commentator Simon Holt is backing The Grape Escape to win the final race on Champions Day, while he also has a confident selection for the QEII.

Powerful winds, soft ground and strong favourites are on the cards at Ascot for Qipco Champions Day when Order Of St George, Harry Angel and Ribchester could all justify favouritism in their respective races albeit at cramped odds.

Better priced winners may lurk elsewhere but, in the British Champions Long Distance Cup, Order Of St George is strongly fancied to reverse his Gold Cup defeat by Big Orange back in June on ground which should play to his strengths.

Aidan O'Brien's smart stayer ran well for the second consecutive year in the Arc at Chantilly last time finishing fourth behind Enable and, unlike 12 months ago when he was beaten in this race a fortnight later, he has had an extra week to recover this time.

It is hard to see anything stopping him provided he has recovered in time especially as the ground is likely to go against Big Orange and Goodwood Cup winner Stradivarius.

Money Back at Ascot
Money Back at Ascot
It could be a similar story in the Qipco British Champions Sprint if Harry Angel reproduces either of his last two stunning performances in the July Cup or Haydock Sprint Cup, on the latter occasion destroying his rivals on heavy ground.

The Clive Cox-trained colt seems to have improved enormously since being beaten by Caravaggio here in the Commonwealth Cup at the Royal meeting whereas the latter has not looked quite the same horse since.

RIBCHESTER is another likely short-priced market-leader (though perhaps less so than the aforementioned pair) in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes in which easing ground should be no problem for a horse who won the Prix du Moulin in the soft at Chantilly last time and also took Newbury's Lockinge Stakes in similar conditions earlier in the season.

Richard Fahey's colt should arguably have beaten Here Comes When in the Sussex Stakes in August but for which he would have won his last four starts and he is quite clearly the best older miler in the country.

The dangers come from the younger generation in the form of dual Guineas winner Churchill, the progressive Beat The Bank and narrow Prix Jacques le Marois winner Al Wukair.


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Richard Fahey on Ribchester
At this level, Churchill has the most proven ability and has won with some cut in the ground. He looked potentially imperious earlier in the season but flopped at the Royal meeting here and, while he ran well to finish second to Ulysses in the Juddmonte International and when seventh in the Irish Champion Stakes (would probably have made the frame with a clear run) over a mile and quarter, he has become vulnerable.

However, the drop back to a mile may well suit this fine big, handsome colt.

The complication in the race is the draw with Churchill housed in stall one on the far side close to likely pacesetters Lancaster Bomber and Toscanini (for Godolphin) whereas Ribchester is drawn (along with Al Wukair and Beat The Bank) far away towards the stands' side.

The Qipco Champion Stakes looks intriguing with the likely favourite Cracksman dropping in distance after missing the Arc.

Trainer John Gosden insists this lovely Frankel colt would definitely have run a place behind stable companion Enable at Chantilly, and he has undoubtedly improved since finishing third and second in the Epsom and Irish Derbys respectively earlier in the summer.

The big question is whether Cracksman can prove as effective over a mile and a quarter as he looks like a horse who gallops relentlessly rather than one who quickens instantly.

Should he prove short of pace over this trip, POET'S WORD could be the one to take advantage following a career-best effort behind Decorated Knight in the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown last time.

Reported to have worked brilliantly earlier this week, Sir Michael Stoute's colt was a soft ground winner at Goodwood in early August and could be ready to take another step forward.

On form, St James's Palace Stakes winner Barney Roy has solid claims but he is such a good-moving colt that it must be doubtful that soft ground suits him ideally, and he will need to switch off better than in the past in order to stay this distance under the likely conditions.

Poet's Word wins the opener under Ryan Moore
Poet's Word is fancied to go close
French challenger Brametot is another possible after his fifth in the Arc and for him both the distance and going should be ideal.

Some of the colt's Classic-winning form earlier in the season doesn't look quite so good now, however, and he must again avoid his occasional tendency to jump out slowly from the stalls given the short run down to Swinley Bottom.

At his best, Highland Reel would almost certainly be the one to beat, but he seemed to struggle a little on good to soft going behind Enable in the King George in late July and with conditions likely to be similar or deeper, one suspects connections are running him to advance his fitness ahead of some international targets during the months to come.

Last year's winner Journey is likely to head the market for the Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes but has over two lengths to find with the French-trained Bateel on their recent clash at Chantilly.

John Gosden's quirky but talented five-year-old, who was also second in this race (beaten three-quarters of a length by the smart Simple Verse) in 2015, has had a light campaign and may well be spot-on now as that latest run was her first since July.

However, while able to handle some cut in the ground, all her winning form has come under faster conditions whereas the thriving Bateel is a confirmed mudlark.

Journey's stable-companion Coronet is likely to finish strongly if in the same form as when landing the Ribblesdale over this course and distance in June (and has run well enough since) but this trip is a step into the unknown for Matron Stakes winner Hydrangea though aspects of her pedigree suggest she will stay. It looks a tricky contest.

In the closing Balmoral Handicap, THE GRAPE ESCAPE is taken to follow-up his impressive weight-carrying performance at Pontefract 12 days ago.

Richard Hannon's imposing colt is 2lb well-in under a penalty for that success in soft ground (from a well fancied rival in Me Too Nagasaki) and looks highly progressive.

The Grape Escape clearly handles testing ground well and probably found conditions too quick when down the field in the Britannia Handicap here in June.

Accidental Agent and Lord Glitters, first and second over seven furlongs here recently, and last week's York winner Zabeel Prince are obvious dangers in a fiercely competitive race to end what is a spectacular card.

[dennisg]

It’s Champions Day at Ascot and hopefully we’ve got one that lives up to that billing in Ribchester who bids to go one better than when just beaten in last year's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.

He bumped into Minding that day and I think she was an exceptional filly – I certainly wouldn’t mind owning her anyway.

Ribchester’s in great order, he’s taken everything extremely well and he looks fantastic. The rain that’s expected at Ascot doesn’t bother me at all but in all honesty I’d have loved to have seen him again on fast ground.

I feel his very best performance of the season was in the Queen Anne when breaking the track record on that really quick going we had in the middle of the summer. But there are no concerns at all over the going, he’s such a true professional and a very, very good horse.

The one real blot on his copybook this year was his defeat at Glorious Goodwood but I quickly put a line through that. You have to look forward in this game, there’s absolutely no point in looking behind, that’ll do you no good.

And it was good to get him back to winning ways in France last time. It’s been the usual routine since then, we did take him away for a day the other week, just a grass gallop nearby, but it was just to get him off the place. These Group One horses just need to get away once in a while for a nice change.

John Murphy takes him out every day and Tony Hamilton rides him in his fast work, and all I’ve been hearing is positive noises so it’s all systems go. If this doesn't rock my boat then nothing will!

[Kimmy]

Saturday: going, weather & non-runners
Ascot
GOING: SOFT
WEATHER: Showers
STALLS: Straight course - Centre; Round course - Inside
Catterick
GOING: SOFT
WEATHER: Rain
STALLS: 1m4f - Centre; Remainder - Inside
NON RUNNERS:
2:55 Swendab (2)
3:30 Udontdodou (6)
4:05 Sellingallthetime (12)Theos Lolly (4)
4:40 Portledge (14)
5:10 Dream Serenade (5)
Fairyhouse
GOING: SOFT TO HEAVY (Monitoring situation with regard to high winds and rain - announcement will be made at 8am Saturday)
WEATHER: Rain
Ffos Las
GOING: SOFT (GoingStick 6.7)
WEATHER: Rain
Market Rasen
GOING: GOOD (GoingStick: Hurdle 7.5, Chase 7.2) (Rail movements: Races 1, 3 & 4 +216yds, Race 2 +156yds, Race 5 +162yds, Race 6 +228yds and Race 7 +108yds)
WEATHER: Showers
Stratford
GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Good in places) (GoingStick 7.8)
WEATHER: Showers
NON RUNNERS:
3:00 Sametegal (4)
5:45 Hongkong Adventure (7)
Wolverhampton (AW)
GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD
WEATHER: Rain
STALLS: Inside
NON RUNNERS:
7:15 Wajaaha (10)
8:15 Lucky Ellen (8)

[Kimmy]

TODAY'S NAPS TIME CRS TIPSTER LEVEL STAKES
Harry Angel 2:00 Asct Chester Leader, Charlie Croasdale +53.03
Lord Glitters 4:30 Asct Racing Post, RP Ratings +27.72
Brametot 3:50 Asct The Times, Rob Wright +18.69
Jabbaar 4:05 Catt Morning Star, Farringdon +12.95
Caravaggio 2:00 Asct The Irish Field, Rory Delargy +8.81
Gm Hopkins 4:30 Asct Racing Post, Postdata +7.88
Here Comes When 3:15 Asct Daily Mail, Robin Goodfellow +2.65
Caravaggio 2:00 Asct Glasgow Herald, PicksfromthePaddock +2.64
Tasleet 2:00 Asct Daily Star Sunday, Moorestyle +2.18
Cracksman 3:50 Asct The Guardian -0.83
Speculative Bid 4:30 Asct Sunday Express, Jason Heavey -4.09
Poet's Word 3:50 Asct Racing Post, Spotlight -5.13
Cracksman 3:50 Asct The Scotsman, Glendale -6.45
Magic Bear 3:05 Fair The Irish Sun -6.79
The Grape Escape 4:30 Asct Sunday Telegraph, Whistler -8.57
The New One 4:25 Ffos Scottish Express, Chris Goulding -9.5
Duretto 1:25 Asct sportinglife.com, Ben Linfoot -9.75
Stradivarius 1:25 Asct Daily Telegraph, Marlborough -10.89
Roaring Forties 4:40 Catt Scottish Sun, Jim Delahunt -13.93
Perfect Thought 2:25 Catt Glasgow Evening Times, Jeffrey Ross -14.37
Order Of St George 1:25 Asct Racing and Football Outlook -14.58
Lord Glitters 4:30 Asct Sunday Mail, Rockavon -16.5
Desert Ace 2:55 Catt The Star, Patrick Weaver -17.06
Harry Angel 2:00 Asct Daily Express, The Scout -17.41
Cracksman 3:50 Asct Yorkshire Evening Post, Lee Sobot -17.62
Coillte Cailin 6:45 Wolv Racing Post, The North -18.82
Qassem 4:30 Asct Yorkshire Post, The Duke -20.29
Lord Glitters 4:30 Asct Weekender, Paul Kealy -20.83
Barney Roy 3:50 Asct The Sun On Sunday, Sirius -21.88
Zabeel Prince 4:30 Asct Sky Sports News, Alex Hammond -24.21
Lancaster Bomber 3:15 Asct Sheffield Star, Fortunatus -26
Cracksman 3:50 Asct Racing Post, Newmarket -28.01
Churchill 3:15 Asct Belfast Newsletter, Wise Owl -31.15
Yaafour 7:15 Wolv Western Morning News, West Tip -32.78
Dark Red 4:30 Asct Liverpool Echo, Chris Wright -34.42
Zen Master 1:40 MRas Blackpool Gazette, Steve Simpson -35.32
Master Singer 6:45 Wolv attheraces.com, Lawrence Taylor -36.25
Clyne 4:25 Ffos Daily Post, Mercury -36.86
Withernsea 4:30 Asct The Sun, Templegate -38.51
Cracksman 3:50 Asct Daily Record, Garry Owen -39.16
Quiet Reflection 2:00 Asct Racing UK, The Score -40.01
Sheikhzayedroad 1:25 Asct Shropshire Star, Andy Morris -46.96
Bateel 2:40 Asct Daily Mirror, Newsboy -49.04
Greenside 4:30 Asct Gloucestershire Echo, Melissa Jones -49.55
Intelligence Cross 2:00 Asct Irish Post, Karl Hedley -50.94
Harry Angel 2:00 Asct Racing Post, Lambourn -51.63
Barney Roy 3:50 Asct The Press, York, Ebor -74.54
The Grape Escape 4:30 Asct Oxford Mail, Mark Edwards -83.47

[Kimmy]

Conrad Allen and Jimmy Quinn are a team to follow when combining at Wolverhampton. They operate at a 56 per cent strike-rate and the pair are represented by Zilza in the 5.40.

Dan Skelton is a trainer to keep on side when sending out runners with a first-time tongue-tie. He has a healthy 24 per cent strike-rate and saddles Cabaret Queen in Market Rasen’s 1.10.



Fierce Impact has been running against some high-class opposition this season and drops to handicap company for the first time at Wolverhampton (6.45). David Simcock has a 15 per cent strike-rate with handicap debutants so a big run is expected.

[Kimmy]

Newmarket: David Milnes

Cracksman (3.50 Ascot, nap)

Looks to have everything in his armoury to handle this drop back in trip and has worked nicely on the Limekilns of late. John Gosden's hope should get a good tow into the race and won't be stopping on the climb to the line.

Others to follow
Ascot 1.25 Big Orange, 2.00 The Tin Man, 2.40 Journey, 3.15 Thunder Snow, 4.30 Zabeel Prince.
Catterick 2.25 Perfect Thought, 3.30 Green Door.
Wolverhampton 6.15 Robbie Roo Roo, 6.45 Cliff Face, 7.15 Craving.

15/8
Cracksman
3:50 Ascot
Lambourn: James Burn

Harry Angel (2.00 Ascot, nap)

Easy ground should not be a problem for this season's leading sprinter, who will be hard to beat despite all three defeats coming at Ascot. The three-year-old has come on plenty since his last visit to the track and has pleased connections following his brilliant Sprint Cup success at Haydock last month.

Others to follow
Ascot 1.25 Duretto, 2.40 Alyssa, 3.15 Beat The Bank, 3.50 Barney Roy, 4.30 Accidental Agent.
Ffos Las 5.35 The Dubai Way.
Market Rasen 1.10 Lostnfound, 1.40 Zen Master, 2.30 Canoodle, 3.00 Days Of Heaven, 3.35 Royal Irish Hussar, 4.45 The Black Squirrel.
Wolverhampton 7.15 Isle Of Man.

4/1
Caravaggio
2:00 Ascot
North: Colin Russell

Coillte Cailin (6.45 Wolverhampton, nap)

Not been in the best of form recently but goes particularly well here and fancied to bounce back on her first run over today's trip.

Others to follow
Ascot 1.25 Clever Cookie, 2.00 Quiet Reflection, 3.15 Ribchester, 4.30 Lord Glitters.
Catterick 1.50 Biddy Brady, 2.25 Crotchet, 2.55 Desert Ace, 3.30 Confessional, 4.05 Northwest Frontier, 4.40 Echo Of Lightning, 5.10 Red Star Dancer.
Market Rasen 1.40 Kick On Dottie, 2.15 Stoneboat Bill, 2.50 Green Zone, 3.25 It's Your Move, 4.00 Atomix, 4.35 Tickenwolf, 5.05 Wishmaker.
Stratford 1.55 Dyllan, 2.30 Clemency, 3.35 Viserion.
Wolverhampton 5.40 Connacht Girl, 6.15 Kodicat, 7.15 Ocean Voyage, 8.15 Sunnyside Bob, 8.45 Eium Mac, 9.15 Kerry Icon.

16/1
Coillte Cailin
6:45 Wolverhampton (AW)
West Country: Andrew King

Capeland (3.35 Stratford, nap)

Connections are hopeful he has improved for his summer break and he can make a winning comeback.

Others to follow
Market Rasen 4.00 Capitaine, 4.35 Sporting Boy, 5.05 Grand Sancy
Ffos Las 3.20 Brelan D'As, 4.25 Ozzie The Oscar, 5.00 Bramble Brook, 5.35 Cereal Killer.
Stratford 2.30 Litterale Ci, 3.00 Romain De Senam, 5.15 Mr One More

9/4
Capeland
3:35 Stratford
Racing Post Ratings: Paul Curtis

Lord Glitters (4.30 Ascot)

Went close to making a winning debut for David O'Meara here a fortnight ago and his record in France suggests there could be a bit more to come for today's extra furlong.

4/1
Lord Glitters
4:30 Ascot
Topspeed: Dave Edwards

Bateel (2.40 Ascot)

Finished last in this race last season but has been in sparkling form this year and with the ground in her favour a much bolder show is anticipated.

2/1
Bateel
2:40 Ascot
Longshot: Ed Quigley

Ready Token (4.35 Market Rasen)

Has an in-and-out profile, but this course-and-distance winner has a smart record when fresh, so this could be the time to catch him.

4/1
Ready Token
4:35 Market Rasen
Ireland: Tony O'Hehir

Get Out Of Jail (4.50 Fairyhouse)

Having failed by a short head to follow up his Galway win at Limerick on his most recent start, the John McConnell-trained six-year-old, who handles testing ground well, gets the vote to score under 5lb claimer Danny Sheehy.

11/2
Get Out Of Jail
4:50 Fairyhouse

[Kimmy]

STRATFORD
Robin Goodfellow
1.55 Pershing
2.30 Litterale Ci
3.00 Romain De Senam
3.35 Capeland
4.10 Tara Mac
4.45 Desque De L’isle
5.15 Mr One More
5.45 Global Thrill
Gimcrack
1.55 Sky of Stars
2.30 Miss Night Owl
3.00 Bristol De Mai
3.35 Royal Irish Hussar
4.10 Normandy King
4.45 Broom Tip
5.15 Mr One More
5.45 Astrum

MARKET RASEN
Robin Goodfellow
1.10 Ebonys Encore
1.40 Not That Fuisse
2.15 Demon D’aunou
2.50 Paddys Runner
3.25 Red Rising
4.00 Capitaine
4.35 Mister Don
5.05 Grand Sancy
Gimcrack
1.10 Ebonys Encore
1.40 Bit Of A Quirke
2.15 Demon D’aunou
2.50 Bowie
3.25 Hey Bill
4.00 Bordeaux Bill
4.35 Shake It Up
5.05 Normal Norman

+3
WOLVERHAMPTON
Robin Goodfellow
5.40 Zilza
6.15 Robbie Roo Roo
6.45 Master Singer
7.15 Craving
7.45 Navajo Star
8.15 Top Offer
8.45 Sir Lancelott
9.15 Arrowzone
Gimcrack
5.40 Raffle King
6.15 Kodicat
6.45 Fierce Impact
7.15 Craving
7.45 Ballyfarsoon
8.15 Born To Reason
8.45 Eium Mac
9.15 Huddersfilly Town
FFOS LAS
Robin Goodfellow
2.10 Grania O’Malley
2.45 Pronounced
3.20 Brelan D’as
3.55 Flying Eagle
4.25 Clyne
5.00 Bramble Brook
5.35 Cereal Killer
Gimcrack
2.10 Angels Antics
2.45 Eragon De Chanay
3.20 Jameson
3.55 Grey Gold
4.25 The New One
5.00 Bramble Brook
5.35 Al Dancer

ASCOT
Robin Goodfellow
1.25 Stradivarius
2.00 Caravaggio
2.40 Bateel
3.15 Here Comes When (nap)
3.50 Cracksman
4.30 Lord Glitters (nb)
Gimcrack
1.25 Order Of St George (nb)
2.00 Harry Angel
2.40 Bateel
3.15 Beat The Bank
3.50 Cracksman (nap)
4.30 Zabeel Prince

CATTERICK
Robin Goodfellow
1.50 Biddy Brady
2.25 Perfect Thought
2.55 Desert Ace
3.30 Tylery Wonder
4.05 Vernatti
4.40 Our Charlie Brown
5.10 Our Cilla
Gimcrack
1.50 Emphatic
2.25 Crotchet
2.55 Desert Ace
3.30 Udontdodou
4.05 Peterhouse
4.40 Flyboy
5.10 Our Cilla



Read more: www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/racing/article-5002200/Robin-Goodfellow-s-racing-tips-Best-bets-October-21.html#ixzz4w7amykup
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[Kimmy]

[Kimmy]

[Kimmy]

Saturday's meeting at Fairyhouse has been called off and rescheduled for Tuesday with Storm Brian bringing dangerously high winds to the course.

Officials checked conditions at 8am on Saturday and, after consultation with Met Eireann, decided to postpone the fixture until next week.

A statement from Horse Racing Ireland said: "Following an early morning decision between Fairyhouse, Turf Club executives, and Met Eireann, the Fairyhouse meeting today has been cancelled for health and safety reasons due to strong winds forecast for the afternoon.

"Horse Racing Ireland has announced that this meeting will now be held at Fairyhouse on Tuesday, October 24."

Fresh declarations for Tuesday's meeting will be made at 10am on Monday.

[Kimmy]

Ffos Las Racing UPDATE: gates are now open, track is raceable but a precautionary inspection will take place at 1.45 due to high winds

[Kimmy]

FFOS LAS RACING TODAY UPDATE: Inspection has been approved racing is going ahead as scheduled

[Kimmy]

Aidan O'Brien drew level with the late Bobby Frankel's world record of 25 Group/Grade One wins in a year when Hydrangea landed the Qipco British Champion Fillies And Mares Stakes at Ascot.

The Galileo filly has beaten dual 1000 Guineas winner Winter twice already this campaign, but was racing over a mile and a half for the first time.

Ryan Moore made a bid for home early, obviously in no doubt about her ability to stay the distance, but the favourite Bateel cruised up alongside her. When asked to go and win the race, though, Bateel simply could not get past Hydrangea and, in the final 100 yards, the 4-1 shot began to pull away again.

Hydrangea eventually won by two lengths, with Coronet back in third.

On equalling the record, O'Brien said: " It's incredible for everyone, they all put in so much hard work, day in day out. We're a small link in a big chain and I'm delighted for everyone - it's a magic, special day. The chain is so long and we're so glad to be a little link in it."

He added of the winner: "She's by Galileo and they will not stop, their will to win is incredible. She pulled out more and it was Ryan's idea to run her as he thought there was a chance she'd get the trip. We weren't sure, but she did."

Moore said: "What Aidan O'Brien has done this year is remarkable and it is a massive team effort. Everyone who looks after these horses, they put in so much time.

"The filly has been on the go all year and has got better and better. I thought she had a good chance, I just hoped the ground would be a bit better than it was.

"I'm delighted for Aidan."

Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard said of Bateel: "Fantastic. There are no excuses today. My filly did everything, she tried really hard, she came with a lot of petrol under her and she came upsides Hydrangea.

"When Ryan really asked his filly she ran away from me. I was very very upset, but looking at the replay there were no excuses and I'm really proud of her.

"She did a fantastic job for us this year and we have to discuss with the owners about next year. She has earned her place at stud and she'll definitely be going for a break now.

"I would be happy to keep her and breed her, but every ending would be happy.

"I think she was at her top in the Vermeille and she was at her top today. She is a competitive Group One filly.

"She's a great filly, I don't think I could have done more with her, she was spot on for today, had her conditions and was beaten by a better filly on the day."

[Kimmy]

Silvestre de Sousa crowned champion after a 'great year'
Silvestre de Sousa was delighted after officially being crowned Stobart Champion Flat Jockey for the second time in a ceremony at Ascot.

De Sousa, 36, finished well clear of closest pursuer Jim Crowley, having the title sewn up many weeks ago, reaching the 200-winner mark at Lingfield on Wednesday.

De Sousa, who won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket last weekend, said: "It's great to be here after a long season. I've worked really hard this year and I always wanted to win the title again and I finally did."

He went on: "I am delighted to be here on a special day like this. I think this title was more enjoyable. When I started the season I had in my mind I wanted to win it, but you can never be sure that you are going to win it.

"I was riding better horses and was riding better than ever. I had more confidence in my rides. It was more enjoyable as trainers put more confidence into me, in that they left it up to me to do what was best for the horse.

"I do feel a better rider, but I think every year you feel that. This year was one of my great years. I rode over 200 winners this year and that was a great achievement.

"For the last few weeks I've been very confident that no one could catch me. Whoever was in second and third, they were going to need to work twice as hard to catch me.

"It is a lot of effort from everyone, from my agent Shelley Dwyer and my sponsorship with 188Bet is a big help. It is a big team that have got me here."

Born in Northern Brazil, De Sousa was champion apprentice at Sao Paulo in 2000 but left his homeland in 2003 and decided to try his luck in Europe, first with Dermot Weld in Ireland before moving to Yorkshire where he worked for the late Dandy Nicholls.

His breakthrough came when he was spotted by Mark Johnston in 2010 and a year later had his first winners on the big stage at Royal Ascot.

In 2015, the unassuming Brazilian fought his way to the top of the tree just 12 months after losing his job with Godolphin.

Runner-up in 2010 and 2011, pushing Paul Hanagan all the way in the latter season, De Sousa was the only jockey to reach three figures in the first year of the revamped title and, much like this term, he had sealed the deal with several weeks to spare.

He highlighted the Cesarewitch on Withhold as one of the highest points of the season.

"I think the day I rode five winners at Sandown and one at Goodwood, that was a big highlight," he said.

"Everyone was talking about my ride in the Cesarewitch, saying I gave a great ride on Withhold. I grabbed the race like the race was mine. There are 34 horses in the field and when you get things right it is great.

"If I am fit, healthy and well then I can't see why I won't be going for a third title. I want to do very well again next year and if I had the same support as this year I hope to ride plenty of winners.

"If the good horses come I will ride them, but if not I will go to Catterick and anywhere else to ride the winners."

[Kimmy]

Ascot, 21 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:25pm
THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS LONG DISTANCE CUP (CLASS 1) (Group 2)
Permission was given for DURETTO to wear a hood in the Parade Ring.


An enquiry was held to consider interference in the back straight heading towards Swinley Bottom, when BIG ORANGE, unplaced, ridden by James Doyle, interfered with STARS OVER THE SEA (USA), unplaced, ridden by Fran Berry. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Doyle was suspended for 7 days for manoeuvring right-handed towards the rail when not sufficiently clear, causing STARS OVER THE SEA (USA) to clip heels and almost come down.


Colm O’Donoghue, the rider of TORCEDOR (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 7 days and fined £800 for using his whip above the permitted level inside the final two furlongs. Ryan Moore, the rider of the winner, ORDER OF ST GEORGE (IRE), was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level inside the final two furlongs.


Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that DARTMOUTH, unplaced, had lost a right-fore shoe. The representative of Michael Bell reported that BIG ORANGE, unplaced, was unsuited by the ground which was Soft, Heavy down the hill to Swinley Bottom, and would prefer a quicker surface.

Race 2 - 2:00pm
THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SPRINT STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 1)
Inside the final furlong, the winner, LIBRISA BREEZE, shifted quickly right-handed taking HARRY ANGEL (IRE), placed fourth, momentarily off its intended line, and causing it to make brief contact with TASLEET, placed second, but after viewing a recording of the incident it was found that no riding offence was involved and it had not improved the placing of LIBRISA BREEZE.


An enquiry was held to consider interference inside the final two furlongs when WASHINGTON DC (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Donnacha O’Brien, interfered with both BRANDO, placed sixth, ridden by Tom Eaves, and ALPHABET, unplaced, ridden by Wayne Lordan. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. The interference was found to be accidental as at the time that O’Brien manouevered to make his run, there was a sufficient gap which then closed quickly as ALPHABET weakened in front of him.

Race 3 - 2:40pm
THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS FILLIES & MARES STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 1)
The Veterinary Officer reported that JOURNEY, placed sixth, had lost its right-hind shoe.

Race 4 - 3:15pm
THE QUEEN ELIZABETH II STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 1) (Sponsored by Qipco) (British Champions Mile)
Permission was given for HERE COMES WHEN (IRE) to go out of order in the Parade.


The Stable Inspecting Officer reported that he had been informed that a substance had been sprayed on BEAT THE BANK when the gelding was in the saddling boxes. The Stable Inspecting Officer, Andrew Balding, the trainer, his travelling head lad and a Stipendiary Steward were interviewed. Balding’s explanation that he believed the substance to be water which had been sprayed by the owner for good luck was noted and a report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority. The substance was sent for analysis and BEAT THE BANK was routine tested.

Race 5 - 3:50pm
THE QIPCO CHAMPION STAKES (CLASS 1) (BRITISH CHAMPIONS MIDDLE DISTANCE) (Group 1)
Due to the delay caused in part by BARNEY ROY having to be re-saddled prior to this race, permission was given for runners to go straight to post.


An enquiry was held to consider why BARNEY ROY, trained by Richard Hannon, had originally been saddled with the incorrect number cloth which contributed to the race being late off. The trainer’s representative, James Doyle, the rider, the Clerk of the Scales, the Clerk of the Course, and the racecourse employee in charge of distributing the number cloths were interviewed. Their explanations were noted and the Clerk of the Course gave assurances that more rigorous checking procedures would be in place for the future.


Following the race, the representative of Richard Hannon reported that BARNEY ROY, unplaced, was unsuited by the going which was Soft, Heavy down the hill to Swinley Bottom, and would prefer a quicker surface.

Race 6 - 4:30pm
THE BALMORAL HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (Sponsored by Qipco)
Permission was given for WHITE LAKE to wear a hood in the Parade Ring, and for GEORGE WILLIAM to wear a hood in the Parade Ring, to go early to post and be mounted in the chute.


Following the race, Charles Bishop reported that ACCIDENTAL AGENT, placed fourth, was denied a clear run and the Veterinary Officer further reported that the colt had lost a left-fore shoe. Andrea Atzeni reported that ZABEEL PRINCE (IRE), unplaced, ran flat. The representative of Richard Hannon reported that THE GRAPE ESCAPE (IRE), unplaced, was unsuited by the going which was Soft, Heavy in places down the hill to Swinley Bottom, and would prefer a quicker surface. THE GRAPE ESCAPE was routine tested.
View Stewards report
Catterick Bridge, 21 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:50pm
THE toteplacepot NOVICE MEDIAN AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 6)
Permission was given for BIDDY BRADY (USA) to go to post early.

Kieran Shoemark, the rider of IMMORTAL ROMANCE (IRE), placed fourth, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from 2 furlongs out. Suspension dates: Saturday 4 and Monday 6 November 2017.


Following the race, Phillip Makin reported that MEARING, unplaced, hung left in the home straight.

Race 2 - 2:25pm
THE totescoop6 PLAY TODAY EBF FILLIES' NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 4) (PLUS 10 RACE)
Permission was given for PERFECT THOUGHT to go to post early.


The performance of CROTCHET, which started favourite but finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Richard Fahey could offer no explanation for the filly’s performance, other than a report from rider Tony Hamilton that the filly was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.


Following the race, Connor Beasley reported that KIRBEC (IRE), unplaced, missed the break.

Race 4 - 3:30pm
THE totescoop6 CATTERICK DASH HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2)
Permission was given for TYLERY WONDER (IRE) to go to post early.


David Egan, the rider of MEMORIES GALORE (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level inside the final 2 furlongs.


Following the race, Paul Midgley reported that TYLERY WONDER (IRE) was unsuited by the undulations on this occasion.

Race 5 - 4:05pm
THE toteexacta HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4)
Permission was given for VERNATTI to go to post early, and for GOLDEN BOWL (FR) to wear a hood in the parade ring which was removed before going to the start.


The Starter reported that ALBERT’S BACK, trained by Michael Easterby, refused to enter the stalls. The trainer was informed that the gelding could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.


The performance of NORTHWEST FRONTIER (IRE), which started favourite but finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Richard Fahey 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.


Following the race, Jason Hart reported that GOLDEN BOWL (FR), which was pulled up, stopped quickly 5 furlongs out. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Race 6 - 4:40pm
THE totetrifecta HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4)
Following the race, Harrison Shaw reported that MADROOS, unplaced, did not face the kickback on the loose ground.

The Veterinary Officer reported that FLYBOY (IRE), unplaced, had bled from the nose.

Race 7 - 5:10pm
THE COLLECT totepool WINNINGS AT BETFRED SHOPS APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (Part of Go Racing in Yorkshire Future Stars Apprentice Series)
Permission was given for ALLFREDANDNOBELL (IRE) to wear a hood in the parade ring which was removed before going to the start.


The winner TONTO’S SPIRIT, appeared to show an improvement in form, compared with its previous run at Catterick on 18 August 2017, where the gelding finished eighth of eleven beaten 12 lengths. The trainer’s explanation was noted that the gelding benefitted from short break of 64 days and a true stamina test on the soft ground on this occasion. TONTO’S SPIRIT was routine tested.


Following the race, Marjorie Fife reported that MISSY WELLS, unplaced, was unsuited by the Soft ground on this occasion and would prefer a sounder surface.

Clive Mulhall reported that ANEEDH, unplaced, failed to stay the trip on the soft ground on this occasion.

Karen McLintock reported that GOOD MAN (IRE), unplaced, was unsuited by the soft ground on this occasion and would prefer a sounder surface.
View Stewards report
Market Rasen, 21 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:10pm
THE JUST JANE MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (NHMOPS Bonus Race)
Following the race, Gavin Sheehan reported that LOSTNFOUND, unplaced, hung left.

Race 2 - 1:40pm
THE SMOKEY JOE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (DIV I)
Permission was given for DRUID’S DIAMOND to be mounted on the track.


Following the race, Andrew Tinkler reported that NOT AN OSCAR (IRE), which was pulled up, hung left throughout. Harry Skelton reported that NOT THAT FUISSE (FR), which was also pulled up, hung badly left and stopped quickly as if something was amiss. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Race 3 - 2:15pm
THE SMOKEY JOE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (DIV II)
Permission was given for PERMISSION GRANTED (IRE) to be mounted in the pre-Parade Ring.


Following the race, Colm McCormack reported that he lost his right iron after the second last hurdle.

Race 4 - 2:50pm
THE LINCOLN LAGER HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)
Following the race, Alain Cawley reported that LOVE THE LEADER (IRE), which was pulled up, hung badly left. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The representative of Philip Kirby reported that MCKENZIE’S FRIEND (IRE), unplaced, was unsuited by both the slow early pace and the going, which was officially described as Good, and would prefer ground with more cut in it.

Race 5 - 3:25pm
THE WITHAM SHIELD HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)
Having reviewed recordings of the false start, the Starters were satisfied that no riders should be reported for contravening the starting procedures.


Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that HEY BILL (IRE), which was pulled up, sustained a cut to its left hind leg.

Race 6 - 4:00pm
THE WODEWOSE (WILDMAN) NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3)
WESTERN MILLER (IRE) wore earplugs.

Race 7 - 4:35pm
THE SLIPPERY HITCH HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3)
Permission was given for SHADY GLEN (IRE) to go early to post.

Race 8 - 5:05pm
THE GOLDEN FLEECE "JUNIOR" STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6)
Liam Treadwell, the rider of SUTOOR (IRE) and Jamie Hamilton, the rider of ZILLA, were unseated shortly after the start. Both riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. It was found that the incident was accidental and was caused by SUTOOR (IRE) whipping round and taking ZILLA with it.
View Stewards report
Stratford-on-avon, 21 Oct 17
Race 2 - 2:30pm
THE totescoop6 PLAY TODAY MARES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Qualifier for the Challenger Mares' Hurdle Series Final)
CASTAFIORE (USA) wore ear plugs, which were removed at the start.

Race 3 - 3:00pm
THE totepool LIVE INFO DOWNLOAD THE APP HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2)
Permission was given for DAYS OF HEAVEN (FR) to go early to post.

Race 5 - 4:10pm
THE totepool RACECOURSE DEBIT CARD BETTING AVAILABLE HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5)
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that BOLD DUKE, which was pulled up, lost its right hind shoe.

Race 8 - 5:45pm
THE COLLECT TOTEPOOL WINNINGS AT BETFRED SHOPS LADY RIDERS' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for SIMPLY BUSINESS (FR) to be mounted in the Pre-Parade Ring.


Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that OATH BREAKER (IRE), unplaced, was lame right fore.
View Stewards report
Wolverhampton, 21 Oct 17
Race 1 - 5:40pm
THE FCL GLOBAL FORWARDING MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for EYE BURNER and RAFFLE KING (IRE) to go early to post, and for ZILZA (IRE) to be mounted in the chute.


An enquiry was held into the running and riding of EYE BURNER, ridden by Kieren Fox and trained by J.R. Jenkins, which was slowly away with the rider appearing to make little effort to hold his position in the early and middle stages before asking for its finishing effort from approaching 2 furlongs out to finish ninth of nine beaten by 12 ¾ lengths. The rider and the trainer’s representative were interviewed and shown recordings of the race and the Veterinary Officer reported that on first examination the colt was slightly lame on its left fore, however after a second examination, was found to be lame on its left fore. The rider stated his instructions were to jump out and allow the colt to race where he was comfortable. He added that he was made aware of the fact that EYE BURNER had been very keen to post previously and also had a history of being unruly in the stalls. He further added that the colt was slowly away, a fact which the rider had reported at Scales, and in his opinion was outpaced throughout, before failing to respond to his urgings in the straight. Fox stated that he would be recommending to the trainer that EYE BURNER would be suited by a step up in trip and may benefit from being gelded. The trainer’s representative stated that she was happy with the ride given, but was unaware of the trainer’s instructions. Their explanations were noted. J.R. Jenkins was fined £290 for failing to inform his representative of the rider’s instructions.


Following the race, Paddy Pilley reported that BLAZED (IRE), placed second, was slowly away; Callum Shepherd reported that RAFFLE KING (IRE), placed third, stumbled shortly after leaving the stalls and William Cox reported that NONEEDTOTELLME (IRE), placed fourth, hung left away from the whip.

Race 2 - 6:15pm
THE FCL GLOBAL FORWARDING FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
Permission was given for SHESTHEDREAM (IRE) to go early to post.


Following the race, B.A. Curtis reported that SHESTHEDREAM (IRE), unplaced, hung left.

Race 4 - 7:15pm
THE FCL GLOBAL FORWARDING NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5)
Following the race, Kieren Fox reported that LISNAMOYLE LADY (IRE), unplaced, raced greenly throughout.

Race 5 - 7:45pm
THE CONTACT US AT fclgf.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6)
An enquiry was held to consider interference in the back straight when MOLLY KAYE, unplaced, ridden by Robert Winston, interfered with the winner, BALLYFARSOON (IRE), ridden by Stevie Donohoe, which in turn caused interference to ASIAN WING (IRE), unplaced, ridden by David Egan. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Winston was cautioned for careless riding as he had manoeuvred right handed when insufficiently clear of BALLYFARSOON causing Donohoe to take a slight check, which in turn briefly hampered ASIAN WING (IRE).


Following the race, David Egan reported that the saddle on ASIAN WING (IRE), unplaced, slipped forward on the first circuit; Ryan Powell reported that THE LAST MELON, unplaced, was slowly away and hung left on the first circuit, and William Cox reported that STORMING HARRY, unplaced, lugged right in the straight.

Race 6 - 8:15pm
THE FCL PERSONALISED GLOBAL FREIGHT SOLUTIONS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I)
The Starter reported that THREE MAJORS (IRE), trained by A. McCann, refused to enter the stalls. The trainer was informed that the gelding could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.


An enquiry was held to consider interference turning into the home straight when the winner, BORN TO REASON (IRE), ridden by Dougie Costello, interfered with BED OF DIAMONDS, unplaced, ridden by Rhiain Ingram. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Costello was cautioned for careless riding as he had manoeuvred right handed taking BED OF DIAMONDS off its intended line.


Following the race, Shelley Birkett reported that BEARAG, unplaced, was never travelling.
View Stewards report
Ffos Las, 21 Oct 17
Fixture Note
An inspection was held before racing as a result of concerns over high winds. Riders, Richard Johnson, Tom Scudamore and Jamie Moore; Trainers Colin Tizzard, Nigel Twiston-Davies and Evan Williams; The Clerk of the Course, the Veterinary Officer and the Inspector of Courses were interviewed. Having considered the evidence the Stewards were satisfied that racing could continue.
Race 1 - 2:10pm
THE LADBROKES ODDS BOOST MARES' MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4)
In the last half furlong ARIAN (IRE), placed second, drifted right-handed into the whip, despite the rider’s best efforts, taking the winner, WOOLSTONE ONE, off its intended line, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.


Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that BONNIE BLACK ROSE, unplaced, had bled from the nose.

Race 4 - 3:55pm
THE LADBROKES CLAIMING STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4)
An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after interference on the run to the line when the winner, GREY GOLD (IRE), ridden by Jamie Moore, started to pull itself up and in doing so ducked right-handed into the whip taking RED RIVERMAN, placed second, ridden by Jamie Bargary, off its intended line. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. The Stewards considered that the interference had not improved GREY GOLD (IRE)’s placing as the interference was very close to the line and the winning distance was three quarters of a length. The interference was found to be accidental as GREY GOLD (IRE) ducked quickly right just before the post before being corrected.

Race 6 - 5:00pm
THE LADBROKES HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4)
The winner PATRICKS PARK (IRE) appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Stratford-on-Avon on 2 October 2017, where the gelding finished fourth of seven, beaten 26 ¼ lengths. It was noted that the trainer could offer no explanation for the gelding’s improved form. PATRICKS PARK (IRE) was routine tested.

Race 7 - 5:35pm
THE DOUBLE DRAGON THE NATIONAL ALE OF WALES MAIDEN OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4)
The record of vaccinations in the passport of DUC KAUTO (FR) did not comply with the Rules of Racing. Colin Tizzard was fined £280 as this was his second offence within the previous 12 months.

[Kimmy]

Sunday: going, weather & non-runners
Kempton
GOING: GOOD (GoingStick: Chs 7.7; Hdl 7.4) (Watered) (Rail movements: Races 2 & 4 +48yds and Race 6 +60yds)
WEATHER: Mostly cloudy
NON RUNNERS:
2:10 City Dreamer (1)
3:15 Stuccodor (4)
Leopardstown
GOING: YIELDING TO SOFT
WEATHER: Partly cloudy
Southwell (AW)
GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD
WEATHER: Mostly cloudy
STALLS: 5f - Centre; Remainder - Inside
NON RUNNERS:
1:30 Boots And Spurs (7)
2:00 Bed Of Diamonds (13)Breaking Free (10)
3:05 Magnus Maximus (3)
4:40 Archimedes (13)

[Kimmy]

TODAY'S NAPS TIME CRS TIPSTER LEVEL STAKES
Supersta 3:05 Sthl Chester Leader, Charlie Croasdale +52.03
Serenity Now 5:10 Sthl Racing Post, RP Ratings +30.72
Old Guard 4:20 Kemp Morning Star, Farringdon +19.95
Supersta 3:05 Sthl The Times, Rob Wright +17.69
Ayresome Angel 4:40 Sthl The Irish Field, Rory Delargy +7.81
Monsieur Jimmy 1:30 Sthl Racing Post, Postdata +6.88
Amour De Nuit 3:15 Kemp Daily Mail, Robin Goodfellow +1.65
Bach De Clermont 2:40 Kemp Glasgow Herald, PicksfromthePaddock +1.64
Medici Moon 2:00 Sthl Daily Star Sunday, Moorestyle +1.18
Amour De Nuit 3:15 Kemp The Guardian +0.8
Jay Kay 1:30 Sthl The Scotsman, Glendale -4.83
Crosse Fire 4:40 Sthl Sunday Express, Jason Heavey -5.09
Jay Kay 1:30 Sthl Racing Post, Spotlight -6.13
Turbine 4:30 Leop The Irish Sun -6.79
Optimus Prime 4:20 Kemp Scottish Express, Chris Goulding -7.5
Oliver's Hill 3:50 Kemp Sunday Telegraph, Whistler -9.57
Marracudja 3:50 Kemp sportinglife.com, Ben Linfoot -10.75
City Dreamer 2:10 Kemp Daily Telegraph, Marlborough -11.89
Free Stone Hill 2:40 Kemp Sunday Mail, Rockavon -13.5
Rayvin Black 4:20 Kemp Racing and Football Outlook -13.78
Bye Bye Baby 3:30 Leop Scottish Sun, Jim Delahunt -14.93
Know The Truth 2:30 Sthl Glasgow Evening Times, Jeffrey Ross -15.37
James Cook 2:20 Leop Yorkshire Evening Post, Lee Sobot -16
Marracudja 3:50 Kemp Weekender, Paul Kealy -17.83
San Benedeto 4:20 Kemp The Star, Patrick Weaver -18.06
City Dreamer 2:10 Kemp Daily Express, The Scout -18.41
My Renaissance 5:10 Sthl Racing Post, The North -19.82
Marracudja 3:50 Kemp Yorkshire Post, The Duke -21.29
Holiday Magic 3:05 Sthl The Sun On Sunday, Sirius -22.88
Marracudja 3:50 Kemp Sky Sports News, Alex Hammond -25.21
Piazon 4:40 Sthl Racing Post, Newmarket -26.38
Muqarred 1:30 Sthl Sheffield Star, Fortunatus -27
Saxo Jack 3:15 Kemp Belfast Newsletter, Wise Owl -32.15
Jaisalmer 5:20 Kemp Blackpool Gazette, Steve Simpson -32.82
Old Guard 4:20 Kemp Western Morning News, West Tip -33.78
Hammer Gun 3:05 Sthl attheraces.com, Lawrence Taylor -34.25
Master Of Song 3:40 Sthl Liverpool Echo, Chris Wright -35.42
Listen To The Man 3:15 Kemp Daily Record, Garry Owen -37.53
Amour De Nuit 3:15 Kemp Daily Post, Mercury -37.86
House Of Commons 1:30 Sthl The Sun, Templegate -39.51
San Benedeto 4:20 Kemp Racing UK, The Score -41.01
Custard The Dragon 3:05 Sthl Shropshire Star, Andy Morris -47.96
House Of Commons 1:30 Sthl Daily Mirror, Newsboy -50.04
Espresso Freddo 2:10 Kemp Gloucestershire Echo, Melissa Jones -50.55
Marracudja 3:50 Kemp Irish Post, Karl Hedley -51.94
Jaisalmer 5:20 Kemp Racing Post, Lambourn -52.63
Sarabi 3:40 Sthl The Press, York, Ebor -75.54
Florencio 3:05 Sthl Oxford Mail, Mark Edwards -84.47

[Kimmy]

BANKER

Present Man (5.20 Kempton)

A Grade 2 winner over fences last season, Present Man looks difficult to oppose back over hurdles. This tough seven-year-old is officially 7lb worse over the smaller obstacles, but should simply be too classy for these rivals under these conditions over what looks his optimum trip. Fourth when last seen at this track in the Kauto Star Novices' Chase, Bryony Frost's 5lb claim is another positive.

10/11
Present Man
5:20 Kempton
DARK HORSE

Land League (2.40 Kempton)

He doesn't look obviously well-handicapped, but I've been waiting a while to see point-to-point winner Land League over fences and today marks his first attempt. Stuart Edmund's strapping six-year-old proved his well-being two starts ago when beating Saint Contest by nine lengths at Bangor, and I think he can outrun his odds.

8/1
Land League
2:40 Kempton
EYECATCHER

Ice Breeze (3.25 Saint-Cloud)

On all known form Vazirabad, who is bidding for a record-breaking third win in the Prix Royal-Oak, will be tough to beat but Ice Breeze is a very compelling alternative. The colt, who showed enough ability to beat subsequent Grand Prix de Paris winner Shakeel in the Prix Hocquart earlier this season, took the step up to 1m7f in his stride last time and receives 8lb from his elders.

5/1
Ice Breeze
3:25 Saint-Cloud
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[Kimmy]

Newmarket: David Milnes

Piazon (4.40 Southwell, nap)

Fancied to record his fifth win over course and distance on his return to the all-weather after a prep run on turf last month. John Butler's speedster is fit from recent work on the Al Bahathri.

Other to follow
Southwell 5.10 Stand Guard.

7/2
Piazon
4:40 Southwell (AW)

Lambourn: James Burn

Jaisalmer (5.20 Kempton, nap)

In full control when unseating at the last over course and distance in the spring and can gain compensation.

Others to follow
Kempton 2.10 City Dreamer, 2.40 Saint Contest, 4.20 Rayvin Black, 4.50 Fight Commander.

2/1
Jaisalmer
5:20 Kempton

North: Colin Russell

My Renaissance (5.10 Southwell, nap)

Versatile seven-year-old who has a fine record on the course. Still feasibly treated and as he goes well for today's rider is fancied to give another good account.

Others to follow
Kempton 4.50 Court Dismissed.
Southwell 1.30 Shearian, 2.00 Quiet Moment, 2.30 Eponina, 3.05 Holiday Magic, 3.40 George Bailey, 4.10 Quadriga, 4.40 Lucky Beggar.

13/2
My Renaissance
5:10 Southwell (AW)
West Country: Andrew King

Amour De Nuit (3.15 Kempton, nap)

Ran with distinction at Chepstow last weekend when runner-up and fancied to go one better with things in his favour.

Others to follow
Kempton 2.10 Risk And Roll, 2.40 Siruh Du Lac, 3.50 Marracudja, 4.20 San Benedeto, 5.20 Present Man.

11/8
Amour De Nuit
3:15 Kempton
Racing Post Ratings: Paul Curtis

Serenity Now (5.10 Southwell)

Has a good record on Fibresand and should take the beating dropped into Class 6 company.

4/1
Serenity Now
5:10 Southwell (AW)

Topspeed: Dave Edwards

Dragon Girl (2.55 Leopardstown)

Has shaped with promise on a couple of occasions and Jessica Harrington's youngster could break her duck at the fifth attempt.

6/1
Dragon Girl
2:55 Leopardstown
Longshot: Ed Quigley

Hammer Gun (3.05 Southwell)

Nothing to write home about recently, but has good form at the track and should be competitive off his current mark.

8/1
Hammer Gun
3:05 Southwell (AW)
Ireland: Tony O'Hehir

Bye Bye Baby (3.30 Leopardstown)

On a hat-trick after a maiden win at Newmarket followed by a Listed success at Navan two weeks ago, the daughter of Galileo had the form of her maiden boosted when the runner-up went on to score at Group 3 level. A progressive sort, she can land this Group 3 under Seamie Heffernan.

6/4
Bye Bye Baby
3:30 Leopardstown

[Kimmy]

John Mackie and Joe Fanning have individual strike-rates of 18 and 16 per cent at Southwell. That rises to 60 per cent when they combine. They join forces with Custard The Dragon (3.05), who is five from six at the track, and Ayresome Angel (4.40).

Emma Lavelle is four from 14, a 29 per cent strike-rate, with horses having their first run for her having switched from another stable. De Rasher Counter makes his first start for the yard in the 5.20 at Kempton having won a point-to-point and bumper for Liz Lalor in Ireland.



Last year over a two-week period either side of today Evan Williams saddled 31 winners from 138 runners, a 22 per cent strike-rate. Backing each runner to a £1 level stake would have yielded a profit of £95.70. He saddles Bach De Clermont in the 2.40 at Kempton.

[Kimmy]

Scoop6 Results for 21st October 2017
Win Fund: No Winner - £198,895 rolled over to next time
Place Fund: There were 1467 correct selections each winning £25.90

[Kimmy]

Kempton Park, 22 Oct 17
Race 1 - 2:10pm
THE MATCHBOOK BETTING EXCHANGE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3)
Following the race, David Noonan reported that JUMPING JACK (IRE), placed second, hung violently left-handed in the home straight.

Race 2 - 2:40pm
THE MATCHBOOK BETTING PODCAST STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 4)
Permission was given for EXITAS (IRE) to go early to post. VOLT FACE (FR) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.


The saddle on SAINT CONTEST (FR), ridden by Wayne Hutchinson, slipped after the first fence causing the rider to be unseated.

Race 5 - 4:20pm
THE MATCHBOOK VIP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race)
Following the race, Niall Madden reported that he quickly pulled up HINT OF MINT at the fourth last hurdle when he felt the gelding lose action.
View Stewards report
Southwell, 22 Oct 17
Race 1 - 1:30pm
THE BRAMLEY APPLE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5)
The performance of JAY KAY, which finished unplaced, was considered. K. R. Burke could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of JAY KAY during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Race 2 - 2:00pm
THE bookies.com FREE BETS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6)
The Sampling Officer reported that David Allan provided a sample which was found to contain alcohol above the threshold level for breath samples. The rider, the Clerk of the Scales and the Sampling Officer were interviewed. The matter was referred to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority and Allan was suspended from riding for the rest of the day.


Following the race, B. A. Curtis reported that SUPER RUBY, unplaced, hung left throughout.

Race 4 - 3:05pm
THE RICHARD GIBSON MEMORIAL HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3)
ECHO OF LIGHTNING (IRE) ran yesterday, 21 October 2017, at Catterick. The Veterinary Officer reported that a pre-race examination of the gelding deemed it fit to race.


Permission was given for PENWORTHAM (IRE) to go early to post.


Following the race, David Probert reported that LADY PERIGNON, placed third, hung right.

Race 5 - 3:40pm
THE bookmakers.co.uk FREE BETS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I)
Permission was given for MASTER OF SONG and LUKOUTOLDMAKEZEBAK to go early to post.


VERY FIRST BLADE, drawn 3, anticipated the start and accelerated the gate at the same moment as the race had been started. Being satisfied that it was not caused through a faulty action of the starting stalls, no further action was taken.


Following the race, Alistair Rawlinson reported that MASTER OF SONG, placed third, was slowly away.

Race 6 - 4:10pm
THE bookmakers.co.uk FREE BETS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II)
Permission was given for QUICK MONET (IRE) to go early to post.


The winner, BINGO GEORGE (IRE), appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Windsor on 16 October 2017, where the gelding finished eighth of ten, beaten 20 lengths. Mark Rimell explained that BINGO GEORGE (IRE) was suited by the return to the fibresand at Southwell. The gelding was routine tested.

Race 7 - 4:40pm
THE JIGSAW SPORTS BRANDING HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4)
Enquiry Complete - Placings Unaltered.

Permission was given for PIAZON, ACE MASTER, LUCKY BEGGAR (IRE) and CAPTAIN LARS (SAF) to go early to post.

[Kimmy]

Plumpton stages one of its most popular meetings on Monday with a new chief executive in place and plans for a boost in prize-money at the course from the start of next year.

The course is holding its annual Moorcroft Racehorse Welfare Centre raceday in aid of the Sussex-based charity.

"We've got 375 people coming for lunch which is a record," course director Adrian Pratt said.


The meeting will be new chief executive Dan Thompson's second in charge at the course – having officially joined last month from Exeter, where he was general manager.

Pratt said: "We're delighted to have Dan with us. He's already coming up with innovative ideas as to how to take the business forward and we look forward to seeing the fruits of those."

Since Michael Moloney took over from Claire Sheppard at Plumpton in November 2013 the course has had a high turnover of chief executives, with Emma Santer, Kate Hills and Russell Bowes having held the position in the interim.

"I think it's just one of those things," Pratt said. "It just didn't work out one way or the other. These things happen."

Plumpton will again stage its Cheltenham bonus series this winter, with the winners of five novice chases having the opportunity to scoop a £60,000 bonus if they go on to win a chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

The course has also said that from January 1 every race, except bumpers, will carry at least £6,000 in prize-money, while every card will have a £10,000 feature race.

Pratt said a proportion of the extra prize-money would come from the additional funding provided by the government's levy reforms, but that there had also been a "substantial" increase in the course's executive contribution.

"We feel very strongly that we are trying to get the prize-money up for everybody's benefit," he said.

"As a small jumps owner myself I'm conscious how difficult it is. The BHA's appearance money and targeting money at class four to six races is critical because without the pyramid we're gone.

"We don't pretend at Plumpton to be anything other than what we are, a small jumps track with some feature races and our Cheltenham bonus.

"At the same time we've invested a lot of money in the infrastructure and drainage."