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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:08:03 GMT
SATURDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:50 CHELTENHAM BetVictor.com Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m3f71y ITV 2:25 CHELTENHAM BetVictor Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m4f78y ITV 2:45 LINGFIELD (AW) POLYTRACK Betway Churchill Stakes (Listed Race) (All-Weather Fast Track Qualifier) Cl1 (3yo+) 1m2f ITV 3:00 CHELTENHAM Regulatory Finance Solutions Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m1f67y ITV 3:15 LINGFIELD (AW) POLYTRACK Betway Golden Rose Stakes (Listed Race) (All-Weather Fast Track Qualifier) Cl1 (3yo+) 6f1y ITV 3:30 CHELTENHAM Martin & Co Jewellers Intermediate Handicap Hurdle Cl3 (3yo+ 0-140) 2m5f26y ITV
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:09:12 GMT
SATURDAY.
SCOOP 6 1:50 CHELTENHAM BetVictor.com Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m3f71y ITV 2:10 LINGFIELD (AW) POLYTRACK sunbets.co.uk Handicap Cl2 (3yo+ 0-105) 1m1y ATR 2:15 WETHERBY Brian's 60th Celebration Handicap Chase (Qualifier for The Northern Lights Staying Chase Series) Cl4 (4yo+ 0-105) 3m45y RUK 2:25 CHELTENHAM BetVictor Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m4f78y ITV 3:15 LINGFIELD (AW) POLYTRACK Betway Golden Rose Stakes (Listed Race) (All-Weather Fast Track Qualifier) Cl1 (3yo+) 6f1y ITV 3:30 CHELTENHAM Martin & Co Jewellers Intermediate Handicap Hurdle Cl3 (3yo+ 0-140) 2m5f26y ITV
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:10:55 GMT
Nicky Henderson has stressed he could not have got the news out any quicker about star two-mile chaser Altior being ruled out of the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown due to a wind problem.
The Seven Barrows trainer came in for criticism in some quarters for the method and timing of the announcement on Wednesday evening.
Altior had drifted markedly in the betting for the Grade One on December 9, for which he was a short-priced market leader, but H enderson, who issued the news in a statement to bookmakers Unibet, for whom he is an ambassador, believes he did everything by the book.
In the statement, Henderson revealed his team had decided to investigate after Altior made a "whistling noise" on Saturday.
"I am seriously disappointed and incredibly upset with some of the attitudes taken by members of the press and media and television," Henderson told ITV Racing.
"This issue raised its ugly head on Tuesday and I was only thinking on Wednesday afternoon we could not have done this any better, any quicker or more professionally.
"Then we have 'Altior-gate'. It's ridiculous. I am, to say the very least, extremely upset with some of the insinuations made because we have done everything by the book. You could not have done this any quicker.
"The only thing I was waiting for on Wednesday was a second opinion, which I got at four o'clock in the afternoon, and we went to the press immediately."
Asked whether there had been a problem on Saturday, Henderson said: " The first opinion was on Tuesday. If you go to every horse that ever made a squeak in your life I'd spend my whole time sat behind a desk doing nothing.
"Of course we had a look for a good reason, but I had no reason to believe there was anything wrong.
"They (Unibet) do a blog for me, I talk to them and it's given to the press. It's just the same as ringing the PA (Press Association). We did that with Sprinter Sacre last year. I think we go out of our way to co-operate."
Henderson reported Altior underwent a small procedure on Friday to rectify the problem and the target remains to get the horse ready for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham in March.
"This is pretty disappointing for ourselves, in fact it's devastating. He had done what we had to do to him without a general anaesthetic. That's important and is a big help," he said.
"We have a time schedule put together. He has two weeks' box rest, then we can start walking. Time is tight. Our only objective is to get to the Champion Chase.
"How we get there is our job and we will keep everybody posted.
"It's a common thing. Might Bite had it done last season and Sprinter Sacre had it done as a five-year-old."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:12:30 GMT
Cheltenham, 17 Nov 17 Race 1 - 12:40pm THE MARKEL INSURANCE AMATEUR RIDERS' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that WHAT HAPPENS NOW (IRE), unplaced, lost its right hind shoe.
Race 2 - 1:15pm THE FAIRLIGHT BOOKS NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that COUNTER SHY (IRE), which was pulled up, was lame right fore and Ciaran Gethings reported that STUCCODOR (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling.
Race 3 - 1:50pm THE BetVictor HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Permission was given for EXITAS (IRE) to go early to post and for DOITFORTHEVILLAGE (IRE) to wear a hood in the parade ring only.
DOITFORTHEVILLAGE (IRE) appeared to show improved form compared with its previous run at Cheltenham on 28 October 2017, where the gelding finished sixth of the fifteen runners, beaten around 20 lengths on good ground. Paul Henderson’s explanation that DOITFORTHEVILLAGE (IRE) was suited by the softer ground on this occasion was noted. The gelding was routine tested.
Race 4 - 2:25pm THE STEEL PLATE AND SECTIONS NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Following the race Davy Russell reported that WILLIAM HENRY (IRE), which was pulled up, jumped right-handed throughout, causing his saddle to slip.
Race 5 - 3:00pm THE GLENFARCLAS CROSS COUNTRY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Following the race Lizzie Kelly reported that AUBUSSON (FR), unplaced, made a bad mistake five fences from home, causing her saddle to slip, and because of this she had to finish the race without her irons. The Veterinary Officer reported that AUBUSSON (FR), was lame right hind. The Veterinary Officer further reported that CANTLOW (IRE), placed fourth, lost its right fore shoe and that NEED TO KNOW (IRE), which was pulled up, was lame. View Stewards report Newcastle, 17 Nov 17 Race 1 - 12:30pm THE BARCLAYS PREMIER NOVICES' 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.
JASSAS (FR) was kicked by another runner at the start. Having been examined by the Veterinary Surgeon at the start, the gelding was deemed fit to race.
Following the race, Miss A Waugh reported that NO BOUNDARIES (IRE), unplaced, ran too free. The Veterinary Officer reported that INNISCASTLE LAD, placed third, had lost its left front shoe.
Race 4 - 2:15pm THE DRIVER HIRE DARLINGTON MARES' MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) An enquiry was held into the running and riding of KATY ROYAL, ridden by Joe Colliver and trained by Chris Fairhurst, which appeared to be tenderly handled until being asked for an effort after the final hurdle to finish second, beaten a head. The rider and the trainer were interviewed and shown recordings of the race. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities. The rider stated his instructions were to take his time and get the mare settled before getting there at the last to make his run. The trainer confirmed these instructions. Colliver was suspended for 10 days for failing to take all reasonable and permissible measures to obtain the best possible placing; in that having made steady headway throughout the race, from the third last hurdle he allowed the winner MARY ELEANOR to get away from KATY ROYAL, without making sufficient effort to make ground up until after the final hurdle to be beaten a diminishing head.
Race 5 - 2:50pm THE LOGICO VETERANS' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (Qualifier for The Challenger Middle Distance Chase Series Final) Following the race, Danny Cook reported that NO PLANNING, which was pulled up, had lost its action. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Joe Colliver reported that ALDERBROOK LAD (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling.
Race 6 - 3:25pm THE LOVELY LAUNDRY STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) Permission was given for ABSOLUTELY DYLAN (IRE), to be mounted and ridden in the stable yard before entering the parade ring. View Stewards report Lingfield Park, 17 Nov 17 Race 2 - 12:20pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Inside the final furlong, DEEDS NOT WORDS (IRE), unplaced, took a precautionary check off the heels of GEOFF POTTS (IRE), placed third, which caused the rider of BALLESTEROS, unplaced, to have to ease momentarily, but it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Tim Clark reported that KINGSLEY KLARION (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away, Robert Havlin reported that DEEDS NOT WORDS (IRE), was denied a clear run, Jack Garrity reported that COSMIC CHATTER, unplaced, was slowly away, and Rhiain Ingram reported that BALLESTEROS, unplaced, suffered interference inside the final furlong.
Race 3 - 12:50pm THE 32Red CASINO/EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Shane Kelly reported that NO MORE COMMISERY (IRE), unplaced, hung right-handed throughout.
Race 4 - 1:25pm THE 32Red.com/ BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Permission was given for VOI to wear a hood in the Parade Ring.
An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after interference on the run to the line when the winner, STELLAR SURPRISE, ridden by Sean Levey, interfered with CRIMSON ROSETTE (IRE), placed second, ridden by Stevie Donohoe, which in turn interfered with VOI, placed fourth, ridden by Nicola Currie. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. The Stewards considered that the interference had improved STELLAR SURPRISE’s placing as at the time of the interference CRIMSON ROSETTE (IRE) had been gaining on the winner and even after receiving a considerable bump which unbalanced both the filly and the rider, she rallied afterwards and there was only a head between the two horses at the line. The placings were revised as follows: CRIMSON ROSETTE (IRE), placed first, STELLAR SURPRISE, placed second. The interference was found to be accidental as STELLAR SURPRISE had ducked quickly right-handed before being corrected by the rider.
Following the race, James Doyle reported that PART EXCHANGE, which started favourite and finished unplaced, had stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly during routine testing, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 6 - 2:35pm THE BETWAY MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Daniel Muscutt reported that WARM OASIS, placed fourth, hung badly left-handed in the home straight.
Race 7 - 3:10pm THE BETWAY APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Permission was given for ENCAPSULATED to go early to post.
An enquiry was held to consider interference on the run to the line when ZENOVIA (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Hollie Doyle, interfered with FLOWING CLARETS, unplaced, ridden by Hector Crouch. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Doyle was cautioned for careless riding as she had switched right-handed when not sufficiently clear taking FLOWING CLARETS marginally off its intended line and causing Crouch to take a precautionary check.
Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that ZENOVIA (IRE) was denied a clear run.
Race 8 - 3:45pm THE BETWAY APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Permission was given for SPITFIRE LIMITED and EXQUISUTE RUBY to go early to post.
Following the race, Paddy Pilley reported that DONTFORGETTOCALL, placed third, ran too free, and Hollie Doyle reported that AEGEAN BOY, unplaced, was slowly away. The representative of Charles Hills reported that EXQUISITE RUBY, unplaced, had sustained an injury to its left-fore leg. View Stewards report Chelmsford City, 17 Nov 17 Race 1 - 5:45pm THE totescoop6 MAGIC MILLION THIS SATURDAY NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BAILEYS EXCEL to go early to post.
The Veterinary Officer reported that BAILEYS EXCEL, unplaced, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 5 - 7:45pm THE totescoop6 THE MILLIONAIRE MAKER HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV I) Permission was given for BERLUSCA (IRE) to go early to post.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:13:40 GMT
Racecourse Association chairwoman Maggie Carver told representatives of the racing industry on Thursday night she hoped the sport could build a "warm and productive" relationship with bookmakers.
The words were the latest example of the rapprochement between the two sides since the government brought in its reforms of the levy system in April.
Relations between racing and the betting industry have improved in recent months following a cold war prompted by arguments over the plans to extend the levy to operators based offshore and the sport's introduction of the authorised betting partner scheme.
Carver, speaking at the RCA's Showcase Awards at Newbury racecourse, told the audience the "right time is now" to thank bookmakers, a number of whom were represented at the event.
She added: "As you know from April this year our levy system changed to include online as well as the retail market. We have amongst us this evening, I think for the first time, representatives from our four major old levy funders, Ladbrokes, Coral, William Hill and Fred Done, to whom I extend a very warm welcome.
"Together these four firms, through the old levy and associated voluntary funding, have in the past five years contributed in excess of £260 million to our sport.
"So it gives me great pleasure to just say thank you on all our behalf for the support they give us and to say we wish to build a warm and productive relationship with them in the future."
Carver's words were the latest olive branch to have been extended between the two sides.
Earlier this year Ladbrokes Coral chief executive Jim Mullen said relationships between racing and betting were the best he had seen.
And this autumn the first moves were made towards creating a body combining racing and bookmakers to develop and promote betting on the sport.
The evening was an event celebrating good work and innovation carried out by British racecourses, with Aintree being crowned overall champion for the first time.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 17, 2017 19:15:25 GMT
Vienna Circle 8.30 Dundalk
There would not be too many Godolphin horses who stay in the blue silks when rated only 67.
However, if Vienna Circle can be coaxed into the winner’s enclosure then she will be an excellent addition to Sheikh Mohammed’s broodmare band, so persistence is key.
The daughter of Teofilo has been placed on her last two starts, both on the all-weather, and she steps up in trip to a mile and a half to try and make it third-time lucky tonight.
13/2 Vienna Circle 8:30 Dundalk (AW)
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Post by dennisg on Nov 18, 2017 8:01:08 GMT
in today's sporting life............. Find out what connections of some of the leading contenders are saying ahead of Saturday's best races, featuring the BetVictor Gold Cup. BetVictor Gold Cup, 2.25 Cheltenham Click here for full racecard and free video form Harry Fry, Kylemore Lough: "We've been grafting away at home and we are happy with his progress and what he has shown us. He was top weight when fifth in the Caspian Caviar off 2lb higher than what he goes into Saturday's race. He has got a good record fresh as well, hence why we targeted the BetVictor when we mapped out his campaign. The nice thing is that he turned up at the end of May. We were able to assess him, give him a break and start afresh with him. It is not as though he turned up a couple of weeks ago. This was always going to be his starting point." Paul Nicholls, Le Prezien and Romain De Senam: "It was not always the aim for Romain De Senam until he won at Chepstow. He caught me by surprise a bit that day, but I think that race did fall apart and they went quite quick. He ran again six days later, but I had to run him as he was going to go up 12lb. He won and won two good races in a week. "I thought Le Prezien was going to get there most of the way (at Cheltenham last month), but he didn't. He ran very well, he was only beaten a neck and obviously gets further than two. That was a good run. It sharpened his jumping up and two-mile-five probably suits him better than two miles." Nigel Twiston-Davies, Foxtail Hill and Splash Of Ginge: "He won well last time and will prefer the extra half-mile so I hope he's got a good chance. He likes this course and has run well here several times. "Splash Of Ginge has got good form at various distances and I'm looking forward to running him. Owner Barry Connell, Tully East: "He's been there (Cheltenham) twice. He won last season and ran well in the Martin Pipe the year before. He seems to like the place and it looks an open enough race this year. Everything's gone well. We had a prep run over hurdles and he schooled over fences at Naas last weekend. We couldn't be happier. It's a nice pot. He's a course and distance winner and after he won in Cheltenham, we just felt it was the obvious race for him. It's a nice way to start off." Jamie Snowden, Double Treasure: "He has got to improve again, but we think he has." Ian Williams, Ballyalton: "He is in great form. Tom (O'Brien) schooled him on Tuesday and he schooled very nicely for him. He does come into the race with limited chasing experience against some of his rivals, but he has always performed well around Cheltenham and has enjoyed the track. We are looking forward to it, but it is a big ask." Charlie Longsdon,Bentelimar: "He is a nice, uncomplicated horse at home. We are still learning about him, but I am looking forward to seeing him run. He is ticking over nicely. He was fit when he came over and we gave him a bit of a break. He looks great, has schooled well and Johnny (Burke) is looking forward to riding him." mallardjewellers.com Novices' Chase, Cheltenham 1.15 Click here for full racecard and free video form Nigel Twiston-Davies, Ballyoptic: "It was a perfect chasing debut, he looked very good and hopefully he can do the same again. We've had some very good novice chasers, but he was as good as any of them (first time). We made up our minds to go chasing with him when he was beaten first time out this season at Stratford in a handicap hurdle, it looked clear he wasn't quite going to make it to the top over hurdles. So we made the switch and it's going all right so far. The ground will be perfect for him." BetVictor.com Handicap Chase, Cheltenham 1.50 Click here for full racecard and free video form Neil Mulholland, Doing Fine: "The extra couple of furlongs we've got here will definitely suit compared to the race in October. He's got the ground he likes and the trip won't be a problem, so everything looks good for him. We're very happy with him at home so fingers crossed he should make his presence felt. He's a little out of the handicap but that doesn't bother me, he'll be fine." Owner Trevor Hemmings' racing manager Mick Meagher, Vicente: "With a rating of 150 he's high enough in the handicap, but he's not quite good enough to run in the conditions races." JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle Click here for full racecard and free video form Nicky Henderson, Apple's Shakira: "She's a full-sister to (Gordon Elliott's) Apple's Jade and is a lovely filly. When you put a hurdle in front of her she is electric, she's done everything nicely. She's already won in France so she has a penalty. So, we'll jump in here and be brave about it."
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Post by dennisg on Nov 18, 2017 8:02:56 GMT
Dave Ord's horse-by-horse guide to the November Handicap unearthed the winner, so don't miss his take on Saturday's BetVictor Gold Cup. KYLEMORE LOUGH: Grade one winner as a novice and showed high level of form last term for Kerry Lee too. Joined Harry Fry over the summer and long-time ante-post favourite for this, looks fairy treated despite top weight but 0-3 here and others represent better value. LE PREZIEN: May not be entirely straightforward but possesses plenty of ability and shaped encouragingly when chasing home Foxtail Hill here on reappearance. Potentially more to come from him and looks a leading player. DOUBLE TREASURE: Won his last four including a novice here at the Showcase Meeting. We haven’t seen the best of him yet but the assessor hasn’t missed much with a mark of 150 and it will take yet another personal best to defy it. VICONTE DU NOYER: Won valuable heat here last season but form tailed off afterwards. Some encouragement behind Cogry on seasonal return but not enough to suggest he is ready to land this, over a trip seemingly short of his optimum. DAYS OF HEAVEN: Another who has his quirks but won first four over fences before limitations were seemingly exposed at Market Rasen and Stratford. Hard to have much enthusiasm for him off current mark despite top connections. TULLY EAST: Won the Close Brothers Novice Handicap Chase at the Festival in March and looked to be having a pipe-opener for this on reappearance at Punchestown. Has to be on any shortlist. FOXTAIL HILL: Recorded a personal best when fending off Le Prezien on reappearance here last month and will give a bold sight from the front. However he isn’t weighted to confirm that form and it will require even more to land his biggest prize yet. ITV Racing ✔@itvracing All heart! Foxtail Hill produces breathtaking front running display - Watch all the action LIVE on @itv4 2:21 PM - Oct 28, 2017 3 3 Replies 12 12 Retweets 38 38 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy THEINVAL: Looked in need of the run on his reappearance at Ascot and one of the more lively outsiders on the pick of his form, a second place behind Two Taffs in a valuable race at Ayr in April. Needs more again here but travels well and appeals as the sort to run a big race. ROMAIN DE SENAM: Second runner for Paul Nicholls and another leading contender having rattled off back-to-back wins at Chepstow and Stratford last month (beating Double Shuffle at the former). Likely he has more to give and isn’t easily dismissed, STARCHITECHT: Looked as good as ever when winning on reappearance at Stratford and long appealed as the type to pick up a valuable pot over fences. Stable do very well in this race and his form stacks up. Remains well handicapped on pick of his hurdles form and another for a lengthening shortlist. BALLYALTON: Won the 2016 Close Brothers here and having only second start since when finishing sixth over timber at Aintree on reappearance. Clearly that was a prep for this and trainer couldn’t be in better form. Many shrewd judges are siding with him. AQUA DUDE: Claimed a first win over fences in a maiden chase at Uttoxeter on reappearance and is likely to be suited by the demands of this race. However it’s by far his most searching examination over the larger obstacles and others make more appeal. BENTELIMAR: Showed some useful form in Ireland and looks an interesting recruit for Charlie Longsdon but is pitched in at the deep end here, and his big days are likely to be later in the campaign PLAISIR D’AMOUR: Enjoyed a good novice season, including picking up a valuable mares’ pot here in the spring. Unlikely we’ve seen the best of her yet although the suspicion remains she’s at her very best on more testing ground than she’ll encounter here. GUITAR PETE: Slowly returning to his best for Nicky Richards and very impressive when slamming useful yardstick Sametegal at Wetherby last time. A Grade One performer in his juvenile hurdle days, he makes plenty of appeal from his current chase mark. Has a great racing weight too. Wetherby Racecourse @wetherbyraces After three seconds in a row Guitar Pete finally hits the right note under Ryan Day 2:46 PM - Nov 3, 2017 Replies 6 6 Retweets 7 7 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy SPLASH OF GINGE: Possibly needed the run when fourth behind Guitar Pete at Wetherby but isn’t the easiest to predict and the likelihood is this will be all too competitive for his liking. MYSTIFIABLE: Didn’t run badly behind Romain De Senam at Chepstow given a bad mistake three out but even so hard to think of why he’ll reverse form here – especially as he can be a weak finisher, a trait the Cheltenham hill will ruthlessly expose. LAKE TAKUPANA: Hard to enthuse over – even on the pick of his form in Ireland – and would be a huge shock if he was to come home in front here. VERDICT: A very open renewal and easy to make a case for any number of these. Both the Paul Nicholls pair of Le Prezien and Romain De Senam appeal as potential winners along with Tully East and Starchitect but on value grounds I’m siding with GUITAR PETE. He looked back on song at Wetherby last time and has the ability to make them all go from the foot of
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Post by dennisg on Nov 18, 2017 8:04:27 GMT
Don't miss Ben Linfoot's Value Bet preview ahead of a massive day at Cheltenham, with Ballyalton among three recommended bets. Ian Williams can cap a brilliant few weeks when BALLYALTON bids for a third Cheltenham success in the BetVictor Gold Cup on Saturday afternoon. The Worcestershire handler landed a unique Elite Hurdle-November Handicap double last weekend thanks to London Prize and Saunter respectively and Ballyalton looks primed to continue his trainer’s winning form in the big Saturday races in this prestigious Cheltenham contest. A winner at the December meeting here over hurdles and at the Festival when he landed the Close Brothers Novices' Handicap Chase in 2016, Ballyalton has barely been seen since but arrives back at the scene of his greatest triumph in good health as a well-handicapped horse. His only start over fences since his Festival win came in the Grade One Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree the following month when he was a creditable fifth behind Native River, but a knock he picked up in that race ruled him out for the whole of last season. The good thing about his absence is the handicapper has dropped him 6lb to 143, just a 3lb higher mark than the one he won off at the Festival, while a really encouraging run over hurdles at Aintree last month will have put him spot on for this assignment. He travelled well at Aintree before fitness got the better of him in the straight, but he ran a good race in sixth and the form looks strong with the winner, Bags Groove, coming out and winning at Kempton, while Clondaw Kaempfer, who finished 16 lengths behind Ballyalton, was second at Bangor a couple of days ago. That Close Brothers form worked out well, too. Ballyalton travelled through that race like a dream, on the same Old Course he runs over on Saturday, and the only horses that got anywhere near him that day were Bouvreuil (rated 147 at his best afterwards) and Double Shuffle (now rated 151). Ballyalton gave that pair 2lb and was going away again at the finish, so he’s clearly well treated off 143 and the ground should be fine for him despite it riding perhaps a tad slower than would be ideal. The top of the market has become congested in an open race, with seven horses trading at 10/1 or less, but Ballyalton looks the clear pick of the fancied runner and he looks worth a good each-way bet (1/4 1,2,3,4 shop around for offers, Sky Bet are going SIX places) in the day's feature. At bigger prices Guitar Pete and Viconte Du Noyer were on the radar, but I’m a bit worried about the former’s jumping while I didn’t quite convince myself the latter is well-handicapped enough over this trip. Earlier on the card I like the look of PERFECT CANDIDATE at 12/1 (General) in the BetVictor.com Handicap Chase (1.50). This horse has needed his first run the last couple of seasons so his spin around Cheltenham at the Showcase Meeting last time should've put him spot on for this and he looks set to get into a good rhythm in a prominent position as long as he doesn’t get into a battle for the lead with Three Faces West. Paddy Brennan will be wise to that and Perfect Candidate looks in a good position in this race getting weight from the top two, against four horses out of the handicap and half his rivals are having their first runs of the campaign. A mark of 152 is tough, but he’s won off 150 before and was beaten a nose around here last December off 147, so he might not be badly treated at all having dropped 4lb since the Grand National. His two wins at Cheltenham came in fields of eight and he faces that number of rivals on Saturday, so everything is in place for him to put his best foot forward.
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Post by dennisg on Nov 18, 2017 8:07:03 GMT
Ben Linfoot was at Cheltenham to reflect on Finian's Oscar's poignant success, while Ian Williams was in buoyant mood as he bids to emulate Martin Pipe this weekend. There’s no finer place to lose money than Cheltenham Racecourse on a day as beautiful as today, the clear blue sky, rolling hills and low autumn sun framing the venue at its very best. It would be a slight exaggeration to say the action on the track matched the setting, as the opening day of the newly-named November Meeting was pretty low-key relative to the heart-thumping sport we’re used to in this arena. But there was a star on show. Finian’s Oscar, hot favourite for the four-runner Steel Plate And Sections Novices’ Chase, bidding to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Cheltenham heroes such as Denman and Imperial Commander who won this race when they were learning their trade. Racing in the green, yellow and red-capped colours of the late Alan Potts, his owner passing suddenly earlier in the week, there was a poignancy surrounding his triumph to match the talent and tenacity that he ultimately had to show. They went slow, he cruised into contention, was headed by Movewiththetimes between the final two fences, but then he showed class and resolution to knuckle down, display a change of gear and get the job done pretty cosily in the end. With William Henry being pulled up his task was made easier, but he still had to give 8lb to two good horses and I was more taken by the speed he showed than those bookmakers that left him up at 12/1 for the Racing Post Arkle Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival in March. At this early stage, it’s the Arkle that looks a weaker race than the JLT and it was no surprise to hear trainer Colin Tizzard thinking along those lines in the post-race debrief. Tizzard said: “Giving 8lb today to some good horses, this time last year he was winning a point-to-point and we saw something today we hadn’t really seen before, he could be a two-miler. “It has to be considered, a fast-run two miles could just be right up his street. “It was a good jump at the last and in the end he won it quite cosily. There’s always something in the locker, nothing fazes him, he’s a beautiful creature. You have to remember he’s only five. “This was a slow-run two-and-a-half mile race, so, a fast run Arkle, he could be an Arkle horse.” Bryan Cooper discusses Finian's Oscar's Cheltenham win afterwards Bryan Cooper discusses Finian's Oscar's Cheltenham win afterwards Cheltenham paid tribute to Alan and Ann Potts, who also died earlier in the year, on the big screen, a warm applause from the crowd as the high-profile owners were remembered just as Finian’s Oscar made his way down to the start. “It came as a shock to everybody when Alan passed away on Sunday, that’s for sure,” said Tizzard. “No-one quite knows what will happen in the future. Cheltenham have done a wonderful job and it’s a magical moment for all concerned. “There’s a fair bit of Alan Potts in this horse, actually. When push comes to shove he keeps on finding more and this is as nice a horse as we’ve had for a while I think.” There’s certainly something about Finian’s. That was a really good performance giving weight away in style in ground that was probably harder work than it looked. Whatever happens in terms of his ownership, this son of Oscar looks to have the raw skills to light up the sport in the coming months and, hopefully, years ahead. Colin Tizzard reflects on Finian's Oscar's win Colin Tizzard reflects on Finian's Oscar's win Williams eyes double double Few trainers are as hot right now as Ian Williams, who highlighted his dual-purpose skills in emphatic fashion last weekend thanks to an Elite Hurdle-November Handicap double at Wincanton and Doncaster. London Prize, who landed the Elite Hurdle in fine style in first-time cheekpieces, is back for more in the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham on Sunday, while Ballyalton bids to land a long-term plan by winning the meeting’s feature, the BetVictor Gold Cup, on Saturday. Williams was in buoyant mood after Kapstadt’s second place in the two-mile handicap and gives both of his horses big chances in the weekend’s valuable handicaps. He said: “Ballyalton likes better ground but this is National Hunt ground and he should cope with it better than Kapstadt has done today. I’ve got very few concerns about Ballyalton apart from whether he’s good enough or not. “A lot of the other boxes are ticked, I think he’s come out of his first race really well, he’s won around here before and I’m very happy with him as my ticket in the race - I wouldn’t want another one. “He injured a tendon, which you know is 12 months before you start, but he’s come back fantastic and touch wood all is well. “When he picked up his injury 18 months ago we sat down with his owner John Westwood and decided this was the race we’d like to target. Fortunately we’ve made it here Saturday.” As for London Prize, the big question is the short turnaround after Wincanton. Williams is adamant that won’t be a problem. “The ground as it is should probably suit him and the horse has given me lots of signs this week that he wasn’t bottomed at Wincanton,” he said. “He basically, look, if he could ask to run on Sunday he would’ve done. “He’s in rude form, we’re very happy with him but it is just eight days after Wincanton, it’s a tough ask, but I wouldn’t ask him if I didn’t think he was up to it.” The BetVictor Gold Cup-Greatwood double would be some achievement, usurping even last Saturday’s for Williams. It has been done before, though, in 2001, when Westender and Shooting Light, both ridden by AP McCoy, landed what is still, at the time of writing, a unique achievement for a certain Martin Pipe.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:46:21 GMT
Saturday: going, weather & non-runners Cheltenham GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (GoingStick 6.2) (Rail movements; R1 & 7 +56y, R2 & 3 +88y, R4 +30y, R5 +120y, R6 +58y) WEATHER: Light rain NON RUNNERS: 4:00 Moonlight Escape (6) Lingfield (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Light rain STALLS: 1m - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 1:00 Lady Morel (6) 2:10 Certificate (4) 3:15 Magical Memory (2)Gracious John (4) Punchestown GOING: SOFT TO HEAVY WEATHER: Light rain Uttoxeter GOING: Hurdle course - GOOD TO SOFT; Chase course - GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) (GoingStick: Hdl 7.8, Chs 7.5) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:20 Ted Thistle (15) Wetherby GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (GoingStick: Chs 6.2, Hdl 6.6) (Rail movements; R1 +72y, R2 +42y, R3 +96y, R4 +84y, R5 & 7 +48y, R6 +66y) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:30 Teals Lad (9) 3:50 Mary Eleanor (5) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Mostly cloudy STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 5:45 Kheleyf's Girl (5) 7:15 Talaaqy (1) 9:15 Lord Murphy (11)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:47:08 GMT
TODAY'S NAPS TIME CRS TIPSTER LEVEL STAKES Starchitect 2:25 Chel attheraces.com, Lawrence Taylor +40.71 Spring Loaded 3:15 Ling Racing Post, Spotlight +17.83 Top Offer 9:15 Wolv Daily Telegraph, Marlborough +12.08 Perfect Candidate 1:50 Chel sportinglife.com +11.18 Foxtail Hill 2:25 Chel Racing UK, The Score +8.32 Corelli 6:45 Wolv Sheffield Star, Fortunatus +7.25 Blue Hussar 2:50 Weth Racing Post, The North +7.25 Tully East 2:25 Chel Daily Mirror, Newsboy +6.58 Masaarr 12:25 Ling Glasgow Evening Times, Jeffrey Ross +6.44 Le Prezien 2:25 Chel Racing Post, West Country +4.8 Tully East 2:25 Chel The Guardian +2.52 Kk Lexion 3:00 Chel Weekender, Paul Kealy +1 Kylemore Lough 2:25 Chel Gloucestershire Echo, Melissa Jones -0.24 Trotter 1:35 Ling Western Morning News, West Tip -0.25 Article Fifty 3:40 Uttx Racing Post, Lambourn -0.62 Guitar Pete 2:25 Chel Scottish Sun, Jim Delahunt -0.81 Victory Bond 2:45 Ling Wolverhampton Express & Star, Andrew Bladen -1.6 Follow The Bear 3:30 Chel Racing Post, RP Ratings -1.64 Tully East 2:25 Chel Morning Star, Farringdon -2.33 Theinval 2:25 Chel Liverpool Echo, Chris Wright -2.38 Starchitect 2:25 Chel Sky Sports News, Alex Hammond -2.4 Our Kylie 2:50 Weth Yorkshire Post, The Duke -2.81 Mick The Jiver 1:10 Punc The Irish Sun -4 Diable De Sivola 3:30 Chel Chester Leader, Charlie Croasdale -4.08 Doing Fine 1:50 Chel Oxford Mail, Mark Edwards -5.38 Let's Dance 2:20 Punc Sunday Express, Jason Heavey -5.47 Kk Lexion 3:00 Chel Daily Mail, Robin Goodfellow -5.77 Foxtail Hill 2:25 Chel The Sun On Sunday, Sirius -6.16 Kylemore Lough 2:25 Chel Yorkshire Evening Post, Lee Sobot -6.88 Aqua Dude 2:25 Chel Shropshire Star, Andy Morris -7.25 Minella Rocco 1:50 Chel Racing and Football Outlook -7.49 Thomas Campbell 3:00 Chel The Sun, Templegate -7.79 Gumball 12:40 Chel Daily Post, Mercury -8.46 Tully East 2:25 Chel Sunday Mail, Rockavon -8.77 Lake Takapuna 2:25 Chel The Irish Field, Rory Delargy -8.83 Baraboy 3:05 Uttx Belfast Newsletter, Wise Owl -9.31 Poetic Imagination 12:25 Ling The Press, York, Ebor -9.33 Different Journey 9:15 Wolv Daily Star Sunday, Moorestyle -9.4 Ballyalton 2:25 Chel Sunday Telegraph, Whistler -10.31 Minella Rocco 1:50 Chel Scottish Express, Chris Goulding -10.6 Wazin 7:45 Wolv The Star, Patrick Weaver -11.39 Anteros 3:00 Chel The Times, Rob Wright -11.96 Ballyalton 2:25 Chel The Scotsman, Glendale -12.99 Earlshill 12:20 Uttx Blackpool Gazette, Steve Simpson -13.15 Kylemore Lough 2:25 Chel Irish Post, Karl Hedley -13.17 Rocky's Treasure 3:00 Chel Daily Express, The Scout -13.35 Red Indian 3:30 Chel Irish Herald, Ian Gaughran -13.5 Tully East 2:25 Chel Daily Record, Garry Owen -13.68 Foxtail Hill 2:25 Chel Racing Post, Postdata -14 Spring Loaded 3:15 Ling Glasgow Herald, PicksfromthePaddock -16.22
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:47:37 GMT
BANKER
Thomas Campbell (3.00 Cheltenham, Saturday)
Impressive winner of a Pertemps qualifier at the track last month. Been put up 10lb for that success, but crucially he gets 7lb taken off his back from the talented James Bowen. Seems to save his best for Cheltenham, is progressive and holds a class edge over most of these. Providing the rain stays away before racetime, he'll take the beating. (James Hill)
11/8 Thomas Campbell 3:00 Cheltenham EYECATCHER
First To Boogie (1.10 Punchestown, Saturday)
First To Boogie is not the most consistent horse in training but he's pretty talented on a going day and he got off the mark over fences in good style at Naas last week. This is a better race and he has 5lb more to carry, but he has course-winning form and the booking of Jack Kennedy looks significant. (Tom Segal)
3/1 First To Boogie 1:10 Punchestown DARK HORSE
Poker Play (3.30 Cheltenham, Saturday)
The Fred Winter at the festival was possibly slightly too much too soon for Poker Play after only four starts, but now that he's had time to mature there should be plenty more to come. Judged on his form in France, the four-year-old looks well treated off a mark of 131 and David Pipe has been known to target this kind of contest at Cheltenham with an unexposed type. Several of his rivals look weighted to the hilt, but he is the one who could have crept underneath the handicapper's radar. (Tom Bull)
9/1 Poker Play 3:30 Cheltenham Let our experts point you in the direction of the winners with invaluable punting pointers delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up here to get our free newsletter every week
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:48:58 GMT
Lambourn: James Burn
Article Fifty (3.40 Uttoxeter, nap)
Point winner is well thought of by trainer Warren Greatrex, who has no problem readying one for a first run under rules and boasts a decent strike-rate at this track.
Others to follow Cheltenham 12.40 Apple's Shakira, 1.50 Premier Bond, 2.25 Double Treasure, 3.00 Thomas Campbell, 3.30 Follow The Bear, 4.00 Dory. Lingfield 11.55 Rusper, 1.00 Enigmatic, 2.45 Battalion, 3.15 Magical Memory. Uttoxeter 12.20 Indian Hercules, 12.50 Captain Peacock, 2.35 Pennywell. Wetherby 2.50 Keep In Line. Wolverhampton 5.45 Jazz Affair, 6.15 Jo's Girl, 6.45 Bill Cody, 7.15 It's A Wish, 7.45 Two Weeks.
4/1 Article Fifty 3:40 Uttoxeter West Country: Tim Mitchell
Le Prezien (2.25 Cheltenham, nap)
Ran well over a trip too short at the track last time, but that was a very solid return. Similar round of jumping would see him go close again upped in distance despite a 6lb higher mark.
Others to follow Cheltenham 12.40 Gumball, 1.50 Doing Fine, 3.00 Dell' Arca, 3.30 Daible De Sivola, 4.00 Posh Trish. Uttoxeter 1.25 Ms Parfois, 3.40 East Wing.
7/1 Le Prezien 2:25 Cheltenham North: Colin Russell
Blue Hussar (2.50 Wetherby, nap)
Took really well to hurdles last season winning two of his five races, and having enjoyed a good Flat campaign is fancied to go well on his handicap debut on his return to jumping.
Others to follow Cheltenham 2.25 Guitar Pete, 3.30 Ahead Of The Curve, 4.00 Secret Escape. Lingfield 11.55 Lady Noorah, 12.25 Winged Spur, 2.10 Gabrial, 3.15 Clem Fandango, 3.45 Marmion. Uttoxeter 12.50 Stay In Touch, 1.25 Lastbutnotleast, 2.00 Smooth Stepper, 2.35 Lavella Wells, 3.05 Druid's Diamond. Wetherby 12.30 Nicely Indeed, 1.05 Cousin Oscar, 1.40 Western Rules, 2.15 Sharney Sike, 3.20 Wolf Sword, 3.50 Schiaparannie. Wolverhampton 5.45 Arty But Poor, 6.15 Handsome Bob, 6.45 Perfect Blue, 7.15 Cirrus Minor, 7.45 Crotchet, 8.45 Lydiate Lady, 9.15 Mimic's Memory.
9/2 Blue Hussar 2:50 Wetherby Newmarket: David Milnes
Annie Salts (8.45 Wolverhampton, nap)
Chris Dwyer has his team in good shape and this speedster looks to have plenty going for her with a stall-one draw and useful claimer Nicola Currie doing the steering.
Others to follow Lingfield 11.55 Gaudi, 12.25 Poetic Imagination, 1.00 Topmeup, 1.35 Temeraire, 2.10 Sacred Act, 2.45 Boynton, 3.15 Spring Loaded. Wolverhampton 5.45 Dragon Tattoo, 6.15 Compliance, 6.45 Craving, 7.15 Musical Theatre, 7.45 Wazin, 8.15 Sanam.
4/1 Annie Salts 8:45 Wolverhampton (AW) Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Follow The Bear (3.30 Cheltenham, nap)
Lightly raced brother to the Grade 1-placed hurdler African Gold, he shaped well on his recent Worcester reappearance and is potentially a fair bit better than his current mark of 130.
11/1 Follow The Bear 3:30 Cheltenham Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Mazzini (3.15 Lingfield, nap)
Has a bit to find with some of these on official ratings, but the clock indicates that James Fanshawe's consistent sprinter may be equal to the challenge.
9/2 Mazzini 3:15 Lingfield (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Connetable (3.00 Cheltenham)
Wheels have come off lately, but he is starting to look well treated off 133 and is still unexposed at today's trip.
16/1 Connetable 3:00 Cheltenham Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Monalee (12.35 Punchestown)
A smart novice hurdler last season when he won twice and ran second in the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham, the Henry de Bromhead-trained six-year-old, who won his only point-to-point, has always looked a chaser in the making and Davy Russell's mount can get off the mark at the first attempt.
4/5 Monalee 12:35 Punchestown
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:49:29 GMT
Harry Fry is in a rich vein of form with a 32 per cent strike-rate over the last two weeks. He sends two to Cheltenham, the pick of whom is the classy Kylemore Lough (2.25), who is having his first start for the trainer.
This is a good time of year for Pam Sly with a 22 per cent strike-rate two weeks either side of today’s date for the past five seasons. She sends Mortens Leam, her only runner of the day, to Wetherby (1.05).
George Wood is on the hot jockeys’ list with a 44 per cent strike-rate for the past two weeks. He goes to Lingfield for one ride, Mazzini (3.15), for in-form trainer James Fanshawe.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:54:08 GMT
CHELTENHAM ROBIN GOODFELLOW 12.40 Apple's Shakira 1.15 West Approach 1.50 Minella Rocco 2.25 Kylemore Lough (nb) 3.00 KK LEXION (nap) 3.30 Red Indian 4.00 Outofthisworld GIMCRACK 12.40 Apple's Shakira 1.15 Black Corton 1.50 Doing Fine 2.25 BALLYALTON (nap) 3.00 Connetable (nb) 3.30 Diable De Sivola 4.00 Grageelagh Girl LINGFIELD ROBIN GOODFELLOW 11.55 Temur Khan 12.25 Masaarr 1.00 Mutineer 1.35 Temeraire 2.10 Eagle Creek 2.45 Boynton 3.15 Mazzini 3.45 Raashdy GIMCRACK 11.55 Rusper 12.25 Masaarr 1.00 Enigmatic 1.35 Trotter 2.10 Shady Mccoy 2.45 Boynton 3.15 Magical Memory 3.45 Bergholt NEWMARKET - 12.25 MASAARR (nap); 2.10 Eagle Creek (nb). UTTOXETER ROBIN GOODFELLOW 12.20 The Sweeney 12.50 Monty's Awatd 1.25 Ms Parfois 2.00 Bob Ford 2.35 Pennywell 3.05 Baraboy 3.40 Mount Batur GIMCRACK 12.20 Cloth Cap 12.50 Monty's Award 1.25 Happy Diva 2.00 Shanroe Santos 2.35 Pennywell 3.05 Grams and Ounces WOLVERHAMPTON ROBIN GOODFELLOW 5.45 Arty But Poor 6.15 Far Dawn 6.45 Corelli 7.15 Cirrus Minor 7.45 Wazin 8.15 Bleu Et Noir 8.45 Annie Salts 9.15 Top Offer GIMCRACK 5.45 Arty But Poor 6.15 Voicemail 6.45 Craving 7.15 Autumn Snow 7.45 Moretti 8.15 Bleu Et Noir 8.45 Lydiate Lady 9.15 Billy Bond NORTHERNER - 7.15 CIRRUS MINOR (nap); 7.45 Crotchet (nb). WETHERBY ROBIN GOODFELLOW 12.30 Cabaret Queen 1.05 Ami Desbois 1.40 Little Bruce 2.15 Doktor Glaz 2.50 Keep In Line 3.20 Poker School 3.50 Schiaparannie GIMCRACK 12.30 Temple Man 1.05 Valgor Du Ronceray 1.40 Skipthescales 2.15 Golden Investment 2.50 Our Kylie 3.20 Poker School 3 Read more: www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/racing/article-5094063/Robin-Goodfellow-s-racing-tips-Best-bets-November-18.html#ixzz4ym8eKhlM Follow us: @mailonline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 9:54:36 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 15:24:53 GMT
Ruby Walsh has been taken to hospital for x-rays after suffering a suspected broken leg in a fall at Punchestown on Saturday.
Walsh, who was due to ride the returning Faugheen in Sunday's Unibet Morgiana Hurdle, came down when 4-9 favourite Let's Dance fell at the fourth-last flight in the Listed mares' hurdle.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 15:27:44 GMT
Leading amateur rider Tabitha Worsley will miss the rest of the jumps season after a crashing fall at Ludlow on Thursday left her with a broken T12 vertebra in her lower back.
The 22-year-old was in contention at the last on the Robin Dickin-trained The Lion Man in a 2m5f handicap hurdle until clipping the top bar of the last and coming to grief.
Worsley was rushed to Hereford District Hospital, where an MRI scan revealed her injuries, which she hopes will be operated on this weekend. Worsley will also miss the upcoming point-to-point season in which she had four booked rides at Bishops Court in Devon on Sunday.
The amateur rode 14 winners in that at sphere in 2016-17 and finished third in the ladies' championship.
Speaking from hospital, she said: “I’m waiting to have surgery on my T12 and hopefully I’ll be allowed out sometime next week. Unfortunately, it will be at least six months before I’m allowed on a horse again which means I’ll miss the jumps and pointing seasons but hopefully I’ll be back even stronger next year.”
Worsley had been enjoying a good run before her setback. She added: “I’d ridden a winner at Huntingdon only a few days before Ludlow where my horse may well have finished third had he not clipped the top bar and come down.”
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 15:28:13 GMT
Giles Bravery has brought an end to his 26-year training career, citing economic factors as the chief reason. Based on Hamilton Road in Newmarket, Bravery, whose earliest racing memory came at Plumpton in the 1960s, sent out a steady stream of winners after getting his licence in 1991 and enjoyed a purple patch from 2000 to 2002, reaching double-figure tallies of 17, 21 (his best year) and 12. He won the Group 2 Cherry Hinton (now the Duchess of Cambridge) in 1999 with the Gary Stevens-ridden Torgau, who was among the best horses the 55-year-old trained. He said picking up her Cartier award the day his daughter Lily was born was the best of his racing life. Other notable victories came via Diamond White in the 1997 Sweet Solera and Striking Ambition, who won the Pavilion and Carnarvon Stakes in 2003. However, Bravery, who revealed the news on the Get In show on At The Races on Friday night, has endured a few lean campaigns and had just three winners this year and five last season. "One takes an economic line on these things and now, at the age of 55, I've got to find a job," he said. "It's been fun. I have knowledge, whether it's worth any wealth I'm not sure, but I want to stay in the game in some way. "I've no idea what I'll do, but it's an exciting opportunity. Very simply it's that , but it's 26 years and ending last year would have been more fun when our mare Subtle Knife ran at Dusseldorf; that would've been a great day to walk out with your head held high rather than crawling out the gate, but I don't regret anything."
A former assistant to Classic-winning trainer Mark Tompkins, Bravery, who ran Bluebell Wood in the Oaks in 2000, was in playful mood when revealing the news and once said his biggest ambition in racing was to keep enjoying it as it "can be hard work at times".
He added: "You can only do these things for so long at the level trainers like me do it at. We've had moments, bad times and good times. I can't pretend I set the world alight and I can't pretend I didn't do all right with one or two."
Bravery, whose Avarchie was unplaced in a bumper at Huntingdon on Tuesday, has no entries in the coming days.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 15:29:05 GMT
Irish Grand National-winning rider Ger Fox faces an uncertain future as he is understood to be one of three jump jockeys to have tested positive for metabolites of cocaine.
The others are believed to be amateur riders Roger Quinlan and Danny Benson.
Fox, who won last year's Irish Grand National on the Mouse Morris-trained Rogue Angel, did not want to comment on the matter when contacted by the Racing Post.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 15:29:55 GMT
SUNDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:50 CHELTENHAM Racing Post Arkle Trophy Trial Novices' Chase (Registered As The November Novices' Chase) (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 1m7f199y ITV4 2:05 FONTWELL Totepool Southern National Handicap Chase Cl3 (4yo+ 0-140) 3m3f149y ITV4 2:25 CHELTENHAM Shloer Chase (Registered As The Cheltenham Chase) (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 1m7f199y ITV4 3:00 CHELTENHAM Unibet Greatwood Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m87y ITV4 3:30 CHELTENHAM Sky Bet Supreme Trial Novices' Hurdle (Registered As The Sharp Novices' Hurdle) (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m87y ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 19:07:30 GMT
Ruby Walsh faces surgery after breaking his right leg in a fall at Punchestown on Saturday. The 38-year-old champion jockey was also being assessed for a kick in the head suffered in the fall from Let's Dance.
It means Paul Townend is poised to take over on Faugheen in the Unibet Mogiana Hurdle at Punchestown on Sunday when the 2015 Champion Hurdle winner returns to action from 22 months on the sidelines.
The rider told Racing UK on Saturday evening: "I’ve suffered a fracture of my right tibia. I’m going to Tallaght Hospital now to see a specialist and I’ll know a lot more tomorrow.”
Walsh, who was returning to action from an 11-day absence because of a hand injury, was riding Let's Dance for Willie Mullins in the Listed Frontline Security Grabel Mares Hurdle when the 4-9 favourite fell four flights from the finish and kicked and rolled over Walsh as he lay on the ground.
Walsh managed to sit up a few seconds later as if he was about to rise to his feet, but it was quickly evident his injuries were more serious than first appeared. He was treated for some time on the track before being removed by ambulance and taken to nearby Naas Hospital for x-rays.
Turf Club chief medical officer Adrian McGoldrick said on Saturday: "He has gone to Naas Hospital for x-rays and will then go on to Tallaght hospital for surgery. I have already been in touch with Tallaght to tell them to expect him. He also got a kick in the head so as a matter of routine he will be given a CT scan of that area."
It was Walsh's third fall of the day after he emerged unscathed from spills on Minnie Dahill in the opening three-year-old hurdle and Invitation Only in the beginners chase, before winning the 2m4f maiden hurdle on the Mullins-trained Burrows Saint.
Faugheen's trainer Mullins said on Saturday that Paul Townend, declared to ride Vroum Vroum Mag in the Morgiana race, was now likely to switch to Faugheen. It will be the former champion jockey's first ride in public on the son of Germany.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 19:08:59 GMT
If you were clever enough to back Sky Marshal when the market for the race was first compiled, well done. The Ed Walker-trained three-year-old was inserted at 20-1, but that price has collapsed.
He has not shown all that much in four starts to date, but perhaps his ability has not translated to the track as he has been very well-backed to gain a first success.
5/1 Sky Marshal 9:15 Wolverhampton (AW)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 18, 2017 19:11:31 GMT
Today's LIVE Scoop6 Results Win Fund: No Winner - £465,011 rolled over to next time Place Fund: There were 307 correct selections each winning £164.20
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2017 9:27:22 GMT
Sunday: going, weather & non-runners Cheltenham GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places) (Rail movements: R1 +77y; R2 & 3 +56y; R4, 5 & 6 +63y) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:15 Tempuran (12)Black Ivory (5)Undefined Beauty (13)Samson (23) 1:50 Capitaine (2) 3:00 Top Othe Ra (15)Amour De Nuit (10) Cork GOING: Hurdle course - SOFT TO HEAVY; Chase course - SOFT (Soft to heavy in places) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:10 Commandant (26)Texie Rexie (13) Fontwell GOING: GOOD (Good to soft in places) (GoingStick 6.8) (Rail movements: R1, 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7 +72y, R4 +108y) WEATHER: Mostly sunny NON RUNNERS: 12:55 Fields Of Fortune (4) Punchestown GOING: SOFT TO HEAVY (Heavy in places) WEATHER: Cloudy
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2017 9:28:28 GMT
TODAY'S NAPS TIME CRS TIPSTER LEVEL STAKES Misterton 3:00 Chel attheraces.com, Lawrence Taylor +39.71 Nietzsche 3:00 Chel sportinglife.com +18.18 London Prize 3:00 Chel Racing Post, Spotlight +16.83 Melrose Boy 1:15 Chel Sheffield Star, Fortunatus +11.25 Robin Of Locksley 1:30 Font Daily Telegraph, Marlborough +11.08 Mohaayed 3:00 Chel Racing UK, The Score +7.32 Quothquan 12:55 Font Glasgow Evening Times, Jeffrey Ross +6.77 Nietzsche 3:00 Chel Racing Post, The North +6.25 Slate House 3:30 Chel Daily Mirror, Newsboy +5.58 Jenkins 3:00 Chel Racing Post, Lambourn +3.88 Melrose Boy 1:15 Chel Racing Post, West Country +3.8 Flying Tiger 3:00 Chel The Guardian +1.52 Old Guard 3:00 Chel Weekender, Paul Kealy 0 River Wylde 1:50 Chel Gloucestershire Echo, Melissa Jones -1.24 The New One 3:00 Chel Western Morning News, West Tip -1.25 Remiluc 2:40 Font Wolverhampton Express & Star, Andrew Bladen -2.6 Old Guard 3:00 Chel Racing Post, RP Ratings -2.64 Cloudy Dream 2:25 Chel Morning Star, Farringdon -3.33 Cloudy Dream 2:25 Chel Liverpool Echo, Chris Wright -3.38 Flying Tiger 3:00 Chel Sky Sports News, Alex Hammond -3.4 Mohaayed 3:00 Chel Yorkshire Post, The Duke -3.81 Sanibel Island 12:30 Punc The Irish Sun -5 Tigris River 3:00 Chel Chester Leader, Charlie Croasdale -5.08 Elgin 3:00 Chel Oxford Mail, Mark Edwards -5.38 Fox Norton 2:25 Chel The Sun, Templegate -6.17 Soulsaver 3:15 Font Sunday Express, Jason Heavey -6.47 The New One 3:00 Chel Daily Mail, Robin Goodfellow -6.77 Tigris River 3:00 Chel The Sun On Sunday, Sirius -7.16 Jenkins 3:00 Chel Yorkshire Evening Post, Lee Sobot -7.88 Mohaayed 3:00 Chel Shropshire Star, Andy Morris -8.25 Cheque En Blanc 12:20 Font Racing and Football Outlook -8.49 Josies Orders 12:00 Punc Daily Post, Mercury -9.46 Misterton 3:00 Chel Sunday Mail, Rockavon -9.77 The New One 3:00 Chel The Irish Field, Rory Delargy -9.83 Clayton 2:40 Font Belfast Newsletter, Wise Owl -10.31 Quiz Master 12:20 Font The Press, York, Ebor -10.33 Lithic 1:30 Font Daily Star Sunday, Moorestyle -10.4 London Prize 3:00 Chel Sunday Telegraph, Whistler -11.31 Slate House 3:30 Chel Scottish Express, Chris Goulding -11.6 Elgin 3:00 Chel The Star, Patrick Weaver -12.39 London Prize 3:00 Chel The Times, Rob Wright -12.96 Flying Tiger 3:00 Chel The Scotsman, Glendale -13.99 Ozzie The Oscar 1:50 Chel Blackpool Gazette, Steve Simpson -14.15 Flying Tiger 3:00 Chel Irish Post, Karl Hedley -14.17 Quiz Master 12:20 Font Daily Express, The Scout -14.35 Mohaayed 3:00 Chel Irish Herald, Ian Gaughran -14.5 Misterton 3:00 Chel Daily Record, Garry Owen -14.68 The New One 3:00 Chel Racing Post, Postdata -15 Dame De Compagnie 3:30 Chel Glasgow Herald, PicksfromthePaddock -17.22
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2017 9:29:22 GMT
BANKER
Fox Norton (2.25 Cheltenham)
High-class chaser who took this race last year before ending the season with two Grade 1 victories. Trainer Colin Tizzard will have him ready for this once more and the 169-rated seven-year-old should have the measure of his rivals.
Evs Fox Norton 2:25 Cheltenham EYECATCHER
Mohaayed (3.00 Cheltenham)
It takes a speedy to horse to win the Greatwood Hurdle and Mohaayed is just that. Dan Skelton is known for being able to transform horses and this ex-Flat horse, who was last seen bolting up at ridiculous odds in a two-runner affair, can land this ultra competitive handicap at the expense of midweek gamble Jenkins.
13/2 Mohaayed 3:00 Cheltenham Let our experts point you in the direction of the winners with invaluable punting pointers delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up here to get our free newsletter every week
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2017 9:31:47 GMT
Paul Nicholls and Sean Bowen have an excellent record when combining at Fontwell, operating at a strike-rate of 57 per cent. Coillte Lass represents the pair in the 1.30.
The New One has a superb record at Cheltenham – recording six wins from 12 starts. He’s worth a second look in the Greatwood Hurdle (3.00).
Richard Newland does really well with his recruits from other yards and is operating at a 33 per cent strike-rate with such types. Billbushay makes his debut for the Worcestershire trainer in the 2.40 at Fontwell.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 19, 2017 9:32:29 GMT
Lambourn: James Burn
Jenkins (3.00 Cheltenham, nap)
Connections are convinced we will see better from this promising five-year-old, who has been working and schooling well.
Others to follow Cheltenham 1.50 River Wylde, 3.30 Dame De Compagnie, 4.00 Mahlervous. Fontwell 12.55 Lisp, 1.30 Private Malone, 2.40 Lettheriverrundry.
5/1 Jenkins 3:00 Cheltenham West Country: Tim Mitchell
Melrose Boy (1.15 Cheltenham, nap)
Showed promise on all three starts over hurdles last season and reckoned to be on a fair mark now tackling handicaps. Fancied to be in the mix with the step up in trip expected to suit.
Others to follow Cheltenham 1.50 Capitaine, 2.25 Fox Norton, 3.00 Misterton, 3.30 Slate House, 4.00 Crooks Peak. Fontwell 12.20 Quiz Master, 12.55 Jukebox Jive, 1.30 Walt, 2.05 Rathlin Rose, 3.15 Soulsaver, 3.50 Minella Web.
9/4 Melrose Boy 1:15 Cheltenham North: Colin Russell
Nietzsche (3.00 Cheltenham, nap)
Developed into a decent juvenile hurdler last season and was unlucky on his final start when third in the Fred Winter after making a mistake at the last. Has had a couple of runs on the Flat and, with an excellent claimer booked, is fancied to go well again.
Others to follow Cheltenham 1.15 Black Ivory, 2.25 Cloudy Dream, 3.30 Better Getalong.
11/1 Nietzsche 3:00 Cheltenham Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Old Guard (3.00 Cheltenham, nap)
Won this race off a slightly lower mark a couple of years back and, with a talented conditional taking 5lb off his back, is weighted to go well in a wide-open handicap.
16/1 Old Guard 3:00 Cheltenham Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Fergal Mael Duin (2.05 Fontwell)
Earned a personal best when second in this marathon a year ago and Colin Tizzard's nine-year-old is two from three at the course.
5/1 Fergal Mael Duin 2:05 Fontwell Longshot: Ed Quigley
William H Bonney (3.00 Cheltenham)
Trip, track and ground will suit, and there should be more to come off his current mark.
11/1 William H Bonney 3:00 Cheltenham Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Kilcarry Bridge (1.55 Cork)
With eight wins evenly split between hurdles and fences, the John Ryan-trained ten-year-old has good prospects of making it five over hurdles in this 2m handicap. He won a 3m handicap by ten lengths at Gowran Park before just failing to hold off Road To Respect in a Grade 3 chase at Punchestown on his most recent start.
5/1 Kilcarry Bridge 1:55 Cork There are no Newmarket tips on Sunday
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