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Post by Kimmy on Nov 29, 2017 8:00:59 GMT
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Post by dennisg on Nov 29, 2017 8:37:37 GMT
in today's sporting life........... Ben Linfoot speaks to the BHA Head of Handicapping Phil Smith about Bristol De Mai's new 173 rating following his superb Betfair Chase display in this week's 'Weights & Measures'. Betfair Chase, Grade 1, Haydock, Saturday November 25, 3m1 1/2f Bristol De Mai >>>> Up 13lb to 173 “When you win a race like that, it’s almost impossible to try and put up a sensible figure,” says BHA Head of Handicapping Phil Smith, the man tasked with the job of putting a number on Bristol De Mai’s 57-length Betfair Chase romp at Haydock on Saturday. Considering the winning distance and the manner of the victory it conceivably could’ve been a higher rating, but 173 does look sensible. It puts Bristol De Mai 17th in the list of staying chasers to have run in Britain this century (see list below) and gives him the tag of ‘Best Betfair Chase Winner Since Kauto Star (Just)’, which seems fair. That recent context helped Smith affirm his belief that 173 was the right rating for Bristol’s Betfair. In the years AK (After Kauto) Smith had Silviniaco Conti performing to 172 in 2012, Cue Card to 172 in 2013, Silviniaco Conti to 172 in 2014, Cue Card to 172 in 2015 and the same horse again to 168 last year. Kauto Star’s best Betfair produced a performance rating of 179. “I also looked at his trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies and his horse Imperial Commander, who was beaten a nose by Kauto Star in 2009,” said Smith. “I had Imperial Commander performing to 174 that day. I didn’t think Bristol De Mai, in beating a number of under-performers, had achieved as much as Imperial Commander did that day in getting so close to Kauto Star.” That may seem unsatisfactory or, perhaps, unfair on Bristol De Mai, but thankfully the handicapper had a more sophisticated way of arriving at a figure of 173, thanks to the handicap chase run over an identical trip half an hour later on the same card. “I was lucky,” says Smith. “Yes, I looked at the historical context of the race, but more than that I looked at the time relativity with the handicap that took place 30 minutes later. “Chase The Spud won the handicap and I was more confident of assessing him than I was Bristol De Mai. “So I went with 148 for Chase The Spud. Bristol De Mai and Chase The Spud both carried exactly the same weight, 11 stone 7lb, so there’s no weight issue there, and Bristol De Mai’s time was 10 seconds faster than Chase The Spud’s. “Ten seconds on that ground, we work on four lengths per second, so I’ve got a position where Bristol De Mai is 40 lengths superior to Chase The Spud. Then it’s just a question of what pounds per length I use and, on that ground, I went with five-eighths of a pound per length. Normally on good ground I’d use a pound per-length. “On that maths five-eighths of 40 is 25, so I added that figure onto Chase The Spud’s 148 and it comes to 173. That looked about the sort of figure I thought it should be based on the historical context of the race and the way he was mighty impressive.” Bristol De Mai destroyed his rivals under Daryl Jacob Bristol De Mai: Raised 13lb after Betfair Chase success The question for punters now is whether the 6/1 generally available about Bristol De Mai for the King George is a price worth getting onside. He has to go the other way around, on a likely sounder surface, over a trip almost two furlongs shorter than the new distance of the Betfair Chase. And against different rivals too, the likes of Might Bite and Thistlecrack. On ratings, if you believe in that 173, it’s easy to make a case for Bristol. He’s officially rated 12lb better than Might Bite and 2lb superior to Thistlecrack as well. Those two have potential improvement to factor in, they were novices last season and have raced just 13 times over fences between them, but there’s no doubt Bristol is now part of the argument. It makes for a fascinating King George if, please be the case, they all rock up. “He is only six and he is entitled to be improving,” says Smith, when pondering whether Bristol De Mai could even improve on that 173 figure at Kempton. “I’m happy with my figure of 173, but it’s not based on a relative rating to any other horse in the Betfair Chase, it’s based on a race run 30 minutes later so you have to be a little bit sceptical. I’d like to see it confirmed.” On Boxing Day, Bristol De Mai will hopefully get the chance to do just that. The King George is already shaping up to be a thriller. : Bristol De Mai 6/1 for the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day Staying Chasers in Britain since 2000 (career-best official rating) Kauto Star 193 Imperial Commander 185 Denman 182 Long Run 182 Bobs Worth 180 Don Cossack 177 Exotic Dancer 177 See More Business 177 Silviniaco Conti 177 Cue Card 176 Vautour 176 Best Mate 175 Kicking King 175 Beef Or Salmon 174 Neptune Collonges 174 War Of Attrition 174 BRISTOL DE MAI 173 Haydock Park Races ✔ @haydockraces Bristol De Mai wins the @betfair Chase – will he go on to land the #ChaseTripleCrown? 3:13 PM - Nov 25, 2017 2 2 Replies 34 34 Retweets 64 64 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Top Notch effort at Ascot Top Notch >>>> Up 3lb to 160 If Bristol De Mai’s owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede had a horse run on Saturday that probably should’ve been given a higher rating I’d argue that horse is Top Notch. He was seriously impressive in the Grade 2 Christy 1965 Chase at Ascot, jumping brilliantly and travelling up front like a class act in the process of beating a good field with ease. They went a good gallop, there’s no reason to doubt the form and he gave the 151-rated Double Shuffle 3lb and beat him eight lengths without fuss. I loved the way he pinged the last two and I’d be surprised if he doesn’t prove he’s better than a 160 horse by the end of the season. The Ryanair Chase looks his long-term target and, while betting on the Cheltenham Festival this far in advance is fraught with danger, it’s been no surprise to see him backed for that race post-Ascot. Available at 16/1 in the immediate aftermath of his weekend win, he’s a best of 10s now with the major bookies and he looks a huge player in the division on the evidence of his Ascot procession. : Top Notch 8/1 for the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival Click here for full result and free Racing UK video replay Defi has it all to do as Champion picture changes Defi Du Seuil >>>> Remains on 157 What a difference a week makes. On the Saturday of Cheltenham last weekend JP McManus looked to have an ultra-strong Champion Hurdle hand with Buveur D’Air and Defi Du Seuil both single-figure prices in the betting. The next day Faugheen blew away his Morgiana Hurdle rivals on his first start for 665 days, looking every inch the 172 horse the Irish handicapper had him down as despite the long absence. And then Defi Du Seuil reappeared at Ascot on Saturday in the Coral Hurdle a shadow of his 2016-17 self, drifting out to 20s in places for the Champion on the back of a lacklustre, to say the least, display. Let’s presume that 172 number is the sort of rating Defi Du Seuil would have to aspire to in order to win this season’s Champion Hurdle with Faugheen in the field and you get an idea of the size of his task. Rated 157 following a brilliant juvenile season that saw him win seven from seven, he’ll have to improve 15lb on that form and do so after such a disappointing effort. Lil Rockerfeller didn’t have to improve at all to win the race and he remains on 160, with Team Defi Du Seuil licking their wounds on the way back to the drawing board following a near 18-length fourth. He was taking on race-fit rivals over a distance he hadn’t encountered before, so there is hope he can resume his upward curve once he drops back to two miles with the run under his belt. But it’ll be tough for the upcoming five-year-old now. I can see why a few bookies are dangling 20s about him, a price Defi fans could only dream of a few weeks ago. Even those odds aren’t big enough to reel me in. : Defi Du Seuil 16/1 for the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival Click here for full result and free Racing UK video replay Sam Spinner won head in chest Sam Spinner: Hit with a 16lb hike in the weights Hike(s) Of The Week Sam Spinner >>>> Up 16lb to 155 Ramses De Teillee >>>> Up 16lb to 138 Not one but two Hikes Of The Week as the handicapper dishes out a 16lb punishment to two horses that made him look like a right old fool in recent days. Firstly Jedd O’Keefe’s Sam Spinner after his 17-length rout in the Betfair Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle at Haydock. Formerly the ‘Fixed Brush’, Sam Spinner didn’t see another rival over the conventional hurdles and it’s hard to argue with his 16lb rise to 155 after such an easy success. This somewhat forces O’Keefe’s hand and you would think a tilt at the Long Walk at Ascot on December 23 is now in the pipeline. Meanwhile, at Chepstow last Wednesday, David Pipe’s Ramses De Teillee blew them away on his chasing debut in novice handicap company. He was superb at his fences, bar getting in a tad too close at the third last, and won as he liked, eased down for a 17-length success. A son of Martaline, just like Pipe’s Dynaste in the same colours of John White, this horse looks a serious tool and his progress should be monitored with interest. He might even run at Taunton on Thursday in the novices’ limited handicap at 1.50, where he’ll be 9lb well-in under a 7lb penalty should he take his chance. : Sam Spinner 25/1 for the Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival Get down, deeper and down Creep Desbois >>>> Down 3lb to 124 I See You Well >>>> Down 2lb to 122 Finally, we’ll finish off with two dropping down the charts that have the potential to bounce back in the coming weeks and months. Down three at 124… Creep Desbois. Ben Pauling described Creep Desbois as ‘a little dinger of a horse that I’d like to think would be good enough to figure in one of the novice handicaps in the spring’ in his stable tour. There should be room for manoeuvre off his new handicap mark of 124, then, after an encouraging debut over fences at Ascot on Saturday. He was a little bit keen on his first go at three miles and he weakened late on, but he shaped with much promise and a slight drop in trip next time could be the answer. Down two at 122… I See You Well. Seamus Mullins’ horse put in his best performance yet over fences when third to Drumcliff at Wincanton. He shaped like he needs further than two miles and it’s worth remembering his best effort over hurdles came over two-and-a-half miles. That was a handicap win off 120, and he won it by over three lengths, so he’ll be of serious interest off 122 next time out if he’s unleashed over a longer trip. *Both Creep Desbois and I See You Well have been added to the Sporting Life Jumps Notebook, which you can find here. Click here to add any horse to your FREE My Stable tracker
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Post by dennisg on Nov 29, 2017 8:39:28 GMT
Chris Wilson has a tip for every UK race in his preview of Wednesday's action, which includes a good card at Wetherby. Gino Trail should be much sharper than on his seasonal return when he rocks up at Wetherby. Kerry Lee's 10-year-old (pictured above) was always up against it in a soft-ground Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter, yet he shaped quite promisingly from the front until fitness told. The 140-rated chaser must give away weight in a one-mile handicap at the West Yorkshire track, but he ought to have come on a ton for that first spin of the season and has always been well liked by his wise trainer. It will be interesting to see down which route Lee decides to travel if Gino Trail does what is expected of him. Plantagenet can be backed to run with honour at Hereford. Seamus Mullins has done a smashing job with the five-year-old since his transfer from Mark Bradstock's stable, having won four handicap hurdle races on the bounce. He very nearly pulled off a five-timer on his chasing debut at Plumpton on November 5 when he got to within two and three quarters of a length to Cucklington, who had already had six starts over fences. Cucklington has also since hit the back of the net, while the third horse home, Dontminddboys, ran nicely at Warwick last week. Plantagenet is clearly going to win races over fences and this three-mile-one-furlong handicap chase looks an ideal next staging post as Mullins attempts to keep the good run going. On the all-weather, Bronze Angel can gain a long overdue victory when he takes the plunge at Wolverhampton. The 2014 Cambridgeshire hero has not found the mark since September 2015, but that does not tell the full story. Marcus Tregoning's eight-year-old has, after all, only raced nine times since then in a stop-start career. But he has shown enough this season to suggest the likelihood of a return to the winner's enclosure is a distinct possibility this winter. Bronze Angel has won twice from four starts on the all-weather so that is also a reassuring stat ahead of the Betway Handicap over nine and a half furlongs. His most recent performance in a fine race at Leicester last month will also have gone down well with connections. Bronze Angel has been well backed today Bronze Angel: Can win at Wolverhampton The gelded son of Dark Angel was done no favours by a soporific gallop in a one-mile handicap, nor was the fact he hit trouble three furlongs out. And yet in spite of that, he was only beaten a length into third place by Fire Brigade and Chatez. After having won off a mark of 104 in his pomp, he is allowed to race at Wolverhampton off 95, which looks most appealing. Tyler Saunders' 7lb claim will also significantly boost to his chances. Keep close tabs on Pretty Bubbles in a six-furlong handicap at Kempton. The eight-year-old mare returned to form at Lingfield last time, when second to the useful Sword Exceed, and still remains firmly on the right side of the assessor. Josephine Gordon's reappointment is also good news. Sporting Life suggestions HEREFORD: 12.35 Sydney De Baune, 1.05 Court Liability, 1.35 Phoebus Lescribaa, 2.10 Plantagenet, 2.40 Undefined Beauty, 3.15 State The Obvious, 3.45 Cydercourt. KEMPTON: 4.10 Equidae, 4.40 Desert Doctor, 5.10 City Gent, 5.40 Pretty Bubbles, 6.10 Out Do, 6.40 Master The World, 7.10 Art Of Swing, 7.40 Lutine Charlie. PUNCHESTOWN: 12.20 Athenean, 12.50 Miracle In Medinah, 1.20 Alaliya, 1.50 Dakota Moirette, 2.25 Woods Well, 2.55 Fitzhenry, 3.30 Bang Bang Rosie. WETHERBY: 12.25 Falcon Sun, 12.55 Three Ways, 1.25 Jersey Bean, 2.00 Gino Trail, 2.30 Mr Snoozy, 3.05 Oscar World, 3.35 Lady Samback. WOLVERHAMPTON: 12.15 Colourful Career, 12.45 Fire Orchid, 1.15 West Palm Beach, 1.45 Come With Me, 2.20 BRONZE ANGEL (NAP), 2.50 Throckley, 3.25 Hamish McGonagain, 3.55 Alaskan Bay.
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Post by dennisg on Nov 29, 2017 8:41:16 GMT
A horse-by-horse guide to Saturday's Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury, where Cogry can upstage some better-fancied rivals. Click on each horse for their full profile and free video form Click here for the racecard Ladbrokes Trophy Chase (Grade 3 Handicap) (Class 1) Saturday 3.00, over a trip of 3m 1f 214y CONEYGREE Superb Gold Cup winner as a novice two-and-a-half years ago but seen just four times since, most recently pulled up in the Charlie Hall when connections cited low sun as an excuse as their horse suffered an over-reach. Yet to run in a handicap but is two-from-two here and easy to see him running a bold race from the front if back in the form which resulted in third place at Punchestown in the spring. That being said, will be conceding upwards of a stone to all bar a handful of these as he bids to become the first 10-year-old winner of the race since 1981, so has plenty to prove on balance. WHISPER Got the better of subsequent winner Clan Des Obeaux on his return to action at Kempton and now steps back into handicap company for the first time since winning the Coral Cup in 2014. Effectively 7lb higher here but still short of his highest mark over hurdles, so is feasibly treated having got within a nose of the King George favourite (with a little help) in the RSA Chase and then two lengths at Aintree. The worry is he's never raced over quite this far and surely wants better ground and it may be that something like the BetBright Chase at Kempton is a more achievable target for a horse who could well pick up a decent handicap. AMERICAN Given the kid-glove treatment by his patient handler, who has had this race in mind ever since he won a good handicap a day after the Cheltenham Festival in the spring. Nothing harsh about a 9lb rise for that eight-length rout and this looker has really impressed with his ability to jump and gallop on the front end in just three starts over fences. Should be plenty more to come from a seven-year-old having just his seventh start under Rules and no surprise if he overcomes concerns as to field size and fitness to take another step up the ladder. CAROLE'S DESTRIER Out-and-out stayer who beat all bar Native River in this race a year ago, form which was franked by the winner when he added the Welsh National next time. This horse hasn't been seen since finishing a disappointing ninth in the same race but should be ready to go, having been taken out of a valuable handicap at the start of November on account of ground deemed too quick. No worries on that score here and second last year was also his first start of the season. Should be on the premises off 6lb higher. LABEL DES OBEAUX Seen plenty of action for a six-year-old having started out on the level in France, but could still be more to come in his second season as a chaser. Second to American in novice company a year ago raises hopes and won a good handicap from a progressive sort at Ayr in the spring, although that far from the only indication that he might prefer better ground. Two runs this year offer little encouragement although ran just about as well as could've been expected behind Might Bite. Would've been of some interest at the price under better conditions. A GENIE IN ABOTTLE Good form as a novice, including fifth when sent off a well-backed favourite for the four-miler at Cheltenham, and has returned to action with two wins this season. Very different scenario here, but this bold-jumping front-runner has scope to improve again under what look set to be ideal conditions. Can jump left, too, so Newbury is expected to suit and while Irish raiders have generally struggled in this race, he looks a prime contender off a mark which for once looks fairly generous. REGAL ENCORE In-and-out profile, winning a good pot at around this time last year but generally struggling otherwise, although sound enough eighth in the Grand National. That may well be the target once more and there was no encouragement to be taken from his return to action at Ascot off this mark. ROYAL VACATION Grade One winner last season thanks to Might Bite's fall when clear at Kempton, but to his credit defied a revised mark to win a novices' handicap on Trials Day at Cheltenham by eight lengths. Disappointed in three starts since but dropped 3lb for return over inadequate trip at Wetherby and is of some interest here for last year's winning yard. Put up at 25/1 by Matt Brocklebank in mid-November and can run a big race. CHILDRENS LIST Former point winner is marginally the more interesting of two outsiders trained by Willie Mullins, on the back of decent return to action at Limerick. Prior to that, he'd beaten now 152-rated Edwulf over Christmas last year and on that form alone, a British mark of 148 could appear generous. Trouble is, he wasn't competitive of lower marks over hurdles and rates a doubtful stayer. PLEASANT COMPANY Won a good race at around this trip at the 2016 Punchestown Festival, before light campaign geared towards Aintree saw him finish ninth in the Grand National. Might have been a good deal closer there but for stumbling on the final circuit but handicap mark remains high enough on balance. Opposable on first run since the spring despite ideal conditions. TOTAL RECALL Backed off the boards ahead of winning debut for Mullins in the Munster National, in which he made an absolute mockery of his mark. The runner-up that day has won a Grade Two since and this eight-year-old remains unexposed over staying trips. No surprise this former point winner is favourite, then, despite racing off a British rating of 147 which asks a new question. Very difficult to get a firm grip on his ceiling but trainer said "he has a lot going for him" earlier this week. Mullins' record in UK handicaps is a serious negative - he's won one over fences since Hedgehunter's Grand National win - but most other boxes are ticked. SINGLEFARMPAYMENT Second, beaten a head, in the Ultima at Cheltenham when travelling with his customary ease at a track he no doubt loves. Returned to action with another big run there, this time a four-length second, which suggests there are races to be won even having been nudged up a further pound to 147. Must prove that he can achieve a similar level of form here at Newbury (well beaten sole try, albeit three years ago with former yard) and not certain to get home despite having won over just a few yards shorter. Opposable at the price. DOUBLE ROSS Well-backed for veterans' race last time but got no further than the second, a rare blip for a typically sound jumper who will be having his 28th start over fences here. Easy to dismiss as a consequence, but it took a final-fence blunder in this race a year ago for Native River to finally shake him off so there's a case to be made off 2lb lower. Shouldn't be winning at the age of 11 but entitled to outrun his odds. PRESENT MAN Hard-fought winner of the Badger Ales last time, further advertising the skills of his 5lb-claiming rider. Carries a 4lb penalty and faces competition for the lead here, but impressive jumping could carry him a long way and is officially still 4lb well-in. Trainer has won the race three times and while Denman and Strong Flow were classier types, this one must rate a solid each-way contender who does not appear to have stopped improving. MISSED APPROACH Sent off favourite to beat American in a novices' chase last season but disappointed, before thumping Label Des Obeaux at Lingfield. Went on to take second in first-time cheekpieces at the Festival (4m), with A Genie In Abottle back in fifth, before decent eighth in the Scottish National. Pulled up on his return to action which explains why he's unfancied here, but that was over hurdles with this race firmly in mind and he's bounced back from low-key runs in the past. Won a handicap hurdle by 12 lengths (albeit throw in) on sole previous start at Newbury and among the more interesting outsiders. BIGBADJOHN Smart on his day, as displayed when landing the Grade Two Reynoldstown last year, but has been disappointing since and ought to have done better at Bangor last time out. Well-treated on such as his second to Thistlecrack and victory over Our Kaempfer, both of which came here, but yard without a winner since September and looks up against it. VYTA DU ROC Often disappointing, but has been well-backed this week and it's easy to see why given that he's 3lb lower than when sixth, fancied, a year ago, and was beaten a head in the Bet365 Gold Cup when last seen over fences. Hurdles pipe-opener at Aintree should have him spot-on for this and having been rated 150 at his peak in that sphere, a mark of 140 looks potentially generous. Gets in towards the foot of the weights and may be ridden talented claimer who landed another decent prize last weekend, which would be an added bonus. Huge chance if putting it all together. BRAQUER D'OR Improved since joining Nicholls in the spring, progressing from a mark of 107 to 139 via three convincing wins. Ran well enough upped in grade at Ascot to suggest he's worth this rating but huge question mark when it comes to the ground, having been beaten on his sole try on soft and been kept on the go throughout summer. COGRY Straightforward galloper who responded well to a positive ride at Cheltenham, beating Singlefarmpayment. Work to do to uphold that form but a guaranteed stayer who tends not to be far away when completing. "I think he has a very good chance," was the assessment of his trainer earlier in the week and he's certainly overpriced in relation to the horse he beat last time. Similar in style, if perhaps less classy, to many a recent winner of this event and will keep on when others have cried enough. Solid each-way player. POTTERS LEGEND Yet to win outside of novice company, but was a fine fourth in the Kim Muir last season and gets to race off the same mark here. Caught the eye on his return at Chepstow and while he ought to have done better at Bangor last time, things just happened a shade quickly and he ended up with far too much to do. Back in a bigger field and up in trip, having run well here in the past, he's not to be dismissed at a price. SOUTHFIELD ROYALE Fourth when favourite for the four-miler at Cheltenham in 2016, on which form he's well-handicapped, but has been thoroughly disappointing since. Most recently he was pulled-up when sent off 8/1 for the Badger Ales and while that was his first run since April, excuses are wearing thin. Handicap snip on his best, such as Grade One second at Kempton two years ago, but yet to win a handicap despite declining mark and unlikely to change that here. PILGRIMS BAY Quirky sort who was delivered to perfection by James Best when landing the BetBright Chase in February. No great surprise he was unable to get competitive off 8lb higher at Cheltenham, but ran a fairly encouraging race at Wincanton on his return to suggest that he could sneak another nice prize when the cards fall right. Unlikely to be here given that he's never won left-handed and doesn't appear the sort to knuckle down as is required in a Hennessy. Verdict Any number for whom there's a case to be made, perhaps none more so than Total Recall despite the worrying record of his trainer in such races. At the prices, however, COGRY looks to have been underestimated on the back of a taking win at Cheltenham. His no-nonsense style echoes many a former winner of this race and with Nigel Twiston-Davies banging in big-race winners, this Scottish National second is expected to go close. Vyta Du Roc would've been awarded the vote at 16/1 but is as short as 9/1 in places now and the value has gone, while of those at bigger prices it's Missed Approach and Potters Legend who stand out. Cogry Vyta Du Roc Total Recall Potters Legend American Missed Approach
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Post by dennisg on Nov 29, 2017 8:42:46 GMT
Pro punter and National Hunt expert Murt Khan has two selections for this afternoon's meeting at Hereford. 12.35 Hereford preview Click here for racecard & free video form Warren Greatrex has been in rude form of late with four winners and three seconds in the last eight days from 14 runners. looked a real promising type early on in his career. In March 2015, he split two horses at Chepstow who went on to clock figures in the late 120's and mid 130's. It was a similar story at Exeter on his run before, splitting Jollyallan who ended up being rated as high as 151 and Hello George who is now rated 133. After 2015, he had a year-and-a-half off and regressed since his initial promise. However, he hasn't run badly earlier this year with a second at Chepstow followed by a couple of decent runs finishing third both times. It wouldn't surprise me if connections had planned for him to go chasing this year and use the first run of the season as a pipe opener over hurdles. He looks like a chaser and tops the weights today in a modest looking 0-105 and feel today is the right time to chance him. Sheepskin pieces are applied for the first time and if he gets into a nice rhythm out in front I can see him notching up a his first victory since 2014. 2.10 Hereford preview Click here for racecard & free video form has been improving since joining the yard of Seamus Mullins and put in a bold bid to make it a five timer on his debut over chases last time out but found one too good in subsequent winner Cucklington. His jumping early doors was quite novicey getting in too close and edging to the right. On this basis, there is more to come and Hereford should suit with quicker ground in the offing in a race which lacks substance. Recommended bets: Posted at 0735 GMT on 29/11/17. Follow Murt on Twitter: @murt_khan Breaking It Down P&L: +14.25pts November: -25.95pts October: +3.10pts September: +1.75pts August: +0.36pts July: +15.09pts June: -10.10pts May: +30.00pts
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 29, 2017 20:17:03 GMT
Hereford, 29 Nov 17 Fixture Note Following Race 2 the Going was changed to Good on the Chase course (from Good, Good to Firm in places) and to Good, Good to Firm in places on the Hurdle Course (from Good to Firm, Good in places) Race 1 - 12:35pm THE MAJOR PHILIP VERDIN MEMORIAL NOVICES' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race James Best reported that SYDNEY DE BAUNE (FR), which started favourite and finished unplaced, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding, during routine testing, failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer also reported that KING'S TEMPEST, which was pulled up, had bled from the nose.
Race 4 - 2:10pm THE LEVEL PEAKS ASSOCIATES HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race Richard Johnson reported that ROLL THE DOUGH (IRE), placed fourth, hung left-handed.
Race 5 - 2:40pm THE ABF THE SOLDIERS CHARITY MARES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Qualifier for the Challenger Mares' Hurdle Series Final) Following the race Ciaran Gethings reported that MISS NIGHT OWL, placed fourth, hung left-handed under pressure.
Race 6 - 3:15pm THE BRECON CARREG ROA/RACING POST OWNERS JACKPOT HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that JOHN BISCUIT (IRE), unplaced, lost its right hind shoe.
Race 7 - 3:45pm THE GERRY DOVERMAN MERCEDES BMW PORSCHE SPECIALIST STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) Permission was given for WIMPOLE to go out early and be led to post. View Stewards report Wetherby, 29 Nov 17 Race 1 - 12:25pm THE wetherbyracing.co.uk JUVENILE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race, Brian Hughes reported that the winner, ALBERT’S BACK, hung right throughout.
Race 3 - 1:25pm THE racinguk.com NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for DESTINED TO SHINE (IRE) to go early to post.
Race 4 - 2:00pm THE BET AT racinguk.com HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Permission was given for GINO TRAIL (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race, Danny Cook reported that NEVER UP (GER), placed fourth of four, hung left throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of NEVER UP (GER), during routine testing, revealed the gelding to be slightly lame on its right hind.
Race 5 - 2:30pm THE FOLLOW @racing_uk ON TWITTER HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for AWAY FOR SLATES (IRE) and REVERANT CUST (IRE) to be mounted in the chute.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that FREEWHEEL (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 6 - 3:05pm THE BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF MARES' STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) (DIV I) Prior to this race, an enquiry was held following a report from the Veterinary Officer that BELLE OF YORK (IRE) had picked up a nail in its foot in the stable. The trainer; Martin Todhunter, the Veterinary Officer, the Racecourse Executive and the Acting Clerk of the Course were interviewed. Todhunter stated that he had asked the Veterinary Officer to examine the filly as a precaution, but had no concerns. The Veterinary Officer was satisfied that it was sound and fit to race. Being satisfied that all procedures had been followed prior to racing in accordance with BHA General Instructions 7.2, and taking into consideration that the origin of the nail could not be established, their explanations were noted.
Following the race, Joe Colliver reported that ROBERTTOWN ROSE (IRE), unplaced, ran green and the Veterinary Officer reported that DAMMIT JANET (IRE), unplaced, finished fatigued and was exhibiting a prolonged recovery rate.
Race 7 - 3:35pm THE BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF MARES' STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) (DIV II) Permission was given for BEYONDPERFECTION to be mounted in the chute.
Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that LOOE BAY, unplaced, lost its right fore shoe. View Stewards report Wolverhampton, 29 Nov 17 Race 1 - 12:15pm THE sunbets.co.uk MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BORN FOR CHAMPAGNE (IRE) to go early to post.
Race 2 - 12:45pm THE 32Red ON THE APP STORE NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Following the race Martin Dwyer reported that SEE THE TAR (IRE), unplaced, hung right from three furlongs out and had no more to give in the home straight. Shane Kelly reported that ZAPATEADO, unplaced, was denied a clear run approaching the bend into the home straight. Stevie Donohoe reported that PHILAMUNDO (IRE), placed fourth, hung left in the home straight.
Race 3 - 1:15pm THE 32Red CASINO FILLIES' NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (PLUS 10 RACE) (DIV I) Permission was given for MORNING BEAUTY to wear a hood in the parade ring.
Approaching the first bend, a free running DESTINYS ROCK, unplaced, had to be checked when it ran onto the heels of CALYPSO BLUE (IRE), placed fourth, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved
Approximately one furlong out, HEEYAAM, placed second, shifted right whilst racing greenly, briefly hampering the winner, WEST PALM BEACH (IRE), but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Approaching ½ a furlong out, HEEYAAM, hung quickly right giving a bump to WEST PALM BEACH (IRE), which was carried off its intended line, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
The Starter reported that MONTEJA, trained by Roger Varian, was unruly in the stalls and withdrawn. The trainer was informed that the filly could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
Race 4 - 1:45pm THE 32Red CASINO FILLIES' NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (PLUS 10 RACE) (DIV II) The performance of COME WITH ME which finished unplaced, was considered. The explanation given by the trainer’s representative that the filly was unsuited by being unable to gain a prominent early position, in a race that favoured the on-pace runners was noted. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 2:20pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Permission was given for SENIORITY and MOUNT TAHAN (IRE) to go early to post. MOUNT TAHAN (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.
Following the race Kevin Stott reported that MOUNT TAHAN (IRE), placed second, had anticipated the start. Jim Crowley reported that SENIORITY, unplaced, ran too free.
Race 6 - 2:50pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The performance of THROCKLEY which finished unplaced, was considered. Paul Murennan reported that the gelding stopped quickly. Conor Dore’s explanation that the gelding had a breathing problem was noted. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Following the race Stevie Donohoe reported that THISTIMENEXTYEAR, unplaced, had no more to give.
Race 7 - 3:25pm THE BETWAY DASH HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for SHACKLED N DRAWN (USA) to go early to post.
An enquiry was held to consider interference inside the final ½ furlong, when the winner, HAMISH MCGONAGAIN, ridden by Kieran Shoemark interfered with MR STRUTTER (IRE). The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. Being a 7lb claimer, Cox was offered accompaniment but declined. Shoemark was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift right without sufficient correction causing Cox to be taken off his intended line and switch around HAMISH MCGONAGAIN.
Following the race Patrick Vaughan reported that FIRST BOMBARDMENT, unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 8 - 3:55pm THE 32Redsport.com NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for WATCH TAN, SKYVA and LADY LINTERA (IRE) to go early to post. ARTY BUT POOR wore earplugs.
The Starter reported that WATCH TAN, trained by George Baker, was unruly in the stalls withdrawn. The trainer was informed that the filly could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
Following the race Tony Hamilton reported that OUR KID, placed third, was denied a clear run approaching the bend into the home straight.
Tony Hamilton reported that OUR KID, placed third, was denied a clear run approaching the bend into the home straight. View Stewards report Kempton Park, 29 Nov 17 Race 1 - 4:10pm THE CLOSE BROTHERS BUSINESS FINANCE MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Sean Levey reported that BOSS FOR A DAY, unplaced, stopped quickly, David Probert reported that HARBOUR BREEZE (IRE), unplaced, was keen early on and was denied a clear run in the home straight and Nicky Mackay reported that JAMIH, unplaced, hung left-handed around the bend into the home straight.
Race 2 - 4:40pm THE 32Red.com/BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV I) Prior to this race, an enquiry was held to determine whether SWEET AND DANDY (IRE) was qualified to run having been registered in training with Jimmy Fox on 23 November 2017 in contradiction of the requirement for a horse to be in the care of a trainer at least 14 clear days before a race. The trainer’s representative stated that the filly had been in the trainer’s care for at least the previous 6 months and was registered with Weatherbys on 23 November 2017 once the filly had been named. Having heard her evidence, the Stewards considered that SWEET AND DANDY (IRE) was qualified and allowed the filly to run.
Race 4 - 5:40pm THE 32Red ON THE APP STORE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BAHAMIAN HEIGHTS to be led to post early and for HIGHER COURT (USA) to be mounted in the chute.
Race 5 - 6:10pm THE 32Red CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Following the race, Tom Marquand reported that TOMILY (IRE), unplaced, was denied a clear run approaching the final furlong.
Race 6 - 6:40pm THE 32Red WILD FLOWER STAKES (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) Following the race, Dougie Costello reported that TENERIFE SONG, unplaced, lugged right-handed on the bend into the home straight.
Race 7 - 7:10pm THE NICOLA SHEPHERD-BANKS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for RUNAIOCHT (IRE) to go early to post and be mounted in the chute.
Following the race, Fran Berry reported that POWER HOME (IRE), unplaced, stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 8 - 7:40pm THE ALL WEATHER 'HANDS AND HEELS' APPRENTICE SERIES HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 7) (Part of the Racing Excellence Initiative) Following the race, Sebastian Woods reported that SONNET ROSE (IRE), placed third, hung right-handed and Theodore Ladd reported that MELLOW, unplaced, hung left-handed throughout. View Stewards report
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Post by dennisg on Nov 30, 2017 7:43:42 GMT
in today's sporting life........... A horse-by-horse guide to Friday's Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury, where Thistlecrack makes his return to action. Click on each horse for their full profile and free video form Click here for the racecard Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle (Grade 2) (Class 1) Friday 3.00, over a trip of 3m 52y UNOWHATIMEANHARRY A revelation since joining Harry Fry's yard just over two years ago, winning 10 of 11 starts to climb from a rating of 123 to 157. Sole blemish came when third in the Stayers' Hurdle, sent off odds-on, but reversed form with the winner at Punchestown thereafter. Looked as good as ever when winning three-runner race at Aintree on comeback with subsequent winner Top Notch third and two-from-two Newbury record includes head-in-chest victory in this last year. This is tougher, clearly, but with race fitness on his side a big run seems assured. WHOLESTONE Good, hard-working novice last season who finished third in the Albert Bartlett. Shaped as though in need of the run when returning over an inadequate trip at Chepstow, form which has worked out nicely, before career-best second to an improving mare at Wetherby. Had subsequently Ascot winner Lil Rockerfeller behind that day and should be more to come for connections who landed the big race last Saturday, but will need top two to under-perform if he's to win. BEER GOGGLES Rapid improver since the spring, winning handicaps off 113, 122 and 145, the latter from a subsequent winner on his seasonal return in October. One run since was a good third off a revised mark of 152 at Aintree behind a handicap blot, where a return to testing ground seemed to eke out more improvement as he flashed home. Has won over 3m3f, albeit at an altogether lower level, and in what's set to be a gruelling test could again run on when others have cried enough for third or fourth. PTIT ZIG Beaten a long way in fourth (Wholestone second, conceding 3lb) at Wetherby when fancied, although may well have needed that first run since June. Last season's best included a decent second to L'Ami Serge at Sandown but that track brings out the best in him and it's far from certain he can return to such a level here. Even if doing so, this eight-year-old has long looked shy of top class, with the top two in the betting both having swatted him aside before. Readily overlooked even in the battle for minor honours. SHANTOU BOB Ran as well as could've been expected in the Cleeve Hurdle last season, beaten 13.5 lengths into fifth by Unowhatimeanharry. Only seen once since, when well held on his return a month ago, and while fairly unexposed there's nothing in the form book to think he'll get any closer to Harry Fry's horse than he did at Cheltenham. Outsider who is impossible to fancy. TAQUIN DU SEUIL Mixed hurdles and fences last year with great success, winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup in November, then returning to Cheltenham to take second to a younger rival in the Coral Cup. Throw in a good fourth to Yanworth in Aintree's Grade One and this former JLT winner has an each-way squeak. Concern would be that he has been off since the spring and this is a warm race in which to return to action, especially rising 11 and with the yard no more than ticking over. THISTLECRACK Winner of the 2016 Stayers' Hurdle who produced one of the most memorable displays in recent times to land the King George as a novice chaser last season, after which he was odds-on for the Gold Cup. Never made it to March having suffered a leg injury a month after his defeat to the late Many Clouds in January and connections have made no secret of the fact this is a pipe-opener before he heads back to Kempton on Boxing Day. Still, he won this race on his return to action two years ago, a season in which no horse got within six lengths of him, and in receipt of 6lb from Unowhatimeanharry he may not need to be at concert pitch to win it again. Looks worth chancing at odds-against with 9lb in hand on the figures. COLIN'S SISTER The aforementioned improving mare who beat Wholestone and Ptit Zig at Wetherby on her return, having been a Grade Two winner as a novice last term. No reason she can't continue her progression as a six-year-old who is entitled to have improved for that run, and soft ground holds no fears. Not much between her and Wholestone on these revised terms and she's arguably overpriced at 14/1 as a result, although likely to be battling for third. Verdict A real treat on the eve of the Ladbrokes Trophy as two of the best stayers around do battle. In favour of Unowhatimeanharry is the fact that we know he's fit and well, and he's answered just about every question asked of him since joining Harry Fry, including in this race last year. THISTLECRACK, however, did what 'Harry could not in winning the Stayers' Hurdle in the fashion of an absolute monster and while he won't be at peak fitness for this, he should be close enough to take advantage of the 6lb he receives from his market rival. Colin Tizzard's horse won this race on his return to action two years ago and his trainer sounded fairly confident earlier this week, saying: "Thistlecrack has had a racecourse gallop and done a lot of work. He is fit. It is a prep-race for the King George but he will go there to race. This is a big ask, but he is a good horse." Perhaps it's a race to watch and enjoy but the vote has to go to Thistlecrack on these terms before he heads to Kempton and what could be a thrilling clash with the likes of Might Bite and Bristol De Mai. The top two are sufficiently clear to temper enthusiasm in an each-way alternative, but Beer Goggles is one to consider at 33/1. He's not stopped improving and the forecast testing conditions at Newbury will play into his hands. Colin's Sister can confirm form with Wholestone as these three fight for bronze.
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Post by dennisg on Nov 30, 2017 7:45:06 GMT
Chris Wilson previews Thursday's racing and has a tip for every race, including a nap at Newcastle. Right Touch could be the solution to a fascinating sprint at Newcastle's evening meeting. Richard Fahey's seven-year-old has not won for an age - last July, to be precise - but he came reasonably close in the autumn and should once again be not too far away. The gelded son of Royal Applause struggled in the summer, though the changing of the seasons brought with it an upturn in form. After having finished second in a deep race at Musselburgh in October, he then did just as well in a similarly competitive event at Doncaster on November 11. Right Touch was knocked off his stride late on, too, so must have pleased Fahey by finishing fourth in a seven-furlong handicap, in which he was beaten under two lengths by Speculative Bid. The Malton handler will also be quietly satisfied by the fact the assessor has left him alone on a mark of 89, which is 6lb lower than the last time he returned to the winner's enclosure. Richard Fahey: Trains Right Touch Perhaps just as importantly is a return to six furlongs for the Betway Casino Handicap as he has done most of his winning over that distance. Muwalla deserves a change of luck when he vies for top honours in a two-mile handicap chase at Musselburgh. Lisa Harrison's 10-year-old has made a reassuring return to form of late, having finished runner-up at Market Rasen and then at Newcastle. His last effort two weeks ago was especially pleasing as, despite running from 5lb out of the handicap, he still got to within a length and a quarter of Rear Admiral over two and a half miles in a much better race than this. The return to two miles will also hold no terrors as Muwalla occupied second spot over that distance at Market Rasen, while the prospect of drying ground can be considered a good thing. Cosmic Diamond can back up a stout performance at Huntingdon with victory at Towcester. Paul Webber's mare is hardly a handicap snip, but connections will be expectant of a big show after she got to within a length and a half of Occasionally Yours in a decent race over an extended two and a half miles. This mares' handicap hurdle over two miles and five furlongs could be there for the taking. Joe Farrell has a couple of runs under his belt already and he should feel the benefit as he lines up in the Bet totequadpot At betfred.com Chase at Taunton. He seems to produce his better efforts on quicker ground, so the likelihood of good conditions here is a definite plus and he has certainly improved with each of his fencing outings to date. Sporting Life suggestions MUSSELBURGH: 1.00 Angel's Envy, 1.30 Canny Style, 2.00 Affaire D'Honneur, 2.30 Silver Concorde, 3.00 Muwalla, 3.30 Karamoko. NEWCASTLE: 5.45 Chaucer's Tale, 6.15 Hisar, 6.45 Blue Havana, 7.15 Strange Society, 7.45 RIGHT TOUCH (NAP), 8.15 Maraakib, 8.45 Ambrosia, 9.15 Yorkshire Rover. TAUNTON: 12.50 Challico, 1.20 Comely, 1.50 Joe Farrell, 2.20 Ambre Des Marais, 2.50 Ballyegan, 3.20 Ice Konig. THURLES: 12.25 Fire In His Eyes, 12.55 Fiddlers Bow, 1.25 Barra, 1.55 Champagne Paddy, 2.25 Thisonesforollie, 2.55 Emily Square, 3.25 Cher Why Not. TOWCESTER: 12.40 Linenhall, 1.10 Classic Jewel, 1.40 Bastien, 2.10 Cosmic Diamond, 2.40 Spice Girl, 3.10 Kayf Adventure, 3.40 Laughing Luis.
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Post by dennisg on Nov 30, 2017 7:46:53 GMT
Mike Cattermole on the ratings dilemma with Bristol De Mai, the wind operation debate, a potential job change for Frankie Dettori and two against the field in the Ladbrokes Trophy. BRISTOL NOW OFFICIALLY BEST AROUND Bristol De Mai, the 57-length Betfair Chase hero, was undeniably extremely good at Haydock on Saturday but trying to work out how good is a difficult question. The handicapper has put him up to 173, 13lb higher than his old mark and now 11lb higher than Might Bite and 3lb superior to Thistlecrack. Officially, he is the best staying chaser in Britain; hold that, he the best chaser in Britain - period - being 3lb superior even to Altior Clearly, the conditions at Haydock were desperate and they say that “bad” ground at Haydock is completely different to bad ground anywhere else. However, it can’t be bad enough for Bristol who is an unstoppable force around there, being unbeaten in three starts on heavy, soft and heavy, with an incredible winning aggregate of 111 lengths. Tea For Two and Cue Card were already jelly-legged jumping the third last and it made for some uncomfortable viewing as they battled away, looking extremely weary. They were on the ropes but never threw in the towel. Play Video 2017 Betfair Chase - Bristol De Mai - Racing UK Full marks to Harry Cobden who was content to let Cue Card gallop on without resorting to the whip. He did his best to hold him together; Lizzie Kelly, I’m afraid, didn’t follow suit and it wasn’t pretty. There can’t be many that won’t agree that missing the King George with Cue Card is a good idea. Clearly the ground was just too much, even for him, and the Tizzards are to be applauded for looking after their ageing pride and joy. The next race on last Saturday’s card was a handicap chase over the identical course and distance (odd planning, I know) and it was won by Chase The Spud, conveniently carrying exactly the same weight as Bristol and in a time 10.5 seconds slower. In that ground, without getting too technical, roughly four lengths equals a second, so he would have been beaten around 42 lengths by Bristol De Mai. Chase The Spud won his race off a rating of 139 so although this at face value suggests that the vanquished runners in the Betfair Chase were indeed below their best for whatever reason, it can’t take away from the fact that Bristol De Mai is perhaps worthy of an even higher rating. This evidence confirms he was undoubtedly brilliant. However, Kempton’s King George is going to be a completely different test. His price there of t is probably about right. WELCOME THE LADBROKES TROPHY Bristol De Mai would have been very hard to beat in the old Hennessy, now the Ladbrokes Trophy, at Newbury on Saturday where he would have carried 11-7, the third top weight. All eyes here will be on Total Recall who landed a significant gamble on his debut for Willie Mullins at Limerick and although 18lb higher, is probably still the one to beat. A Mullins maiden victory in this great chase, under whatever guise, is way overdue after Be My Royal’s unfortunate disqualification in 2002. American has a chance but has been given no slack by the handicapper and Carole’s Destrier is capable of going well again but was 6lb lower when running second last year. I am keen on Noel Meade’s A Genie In Abottle (), who comes here in great form after wins at Galway and Wexford, and could get into a good rhythm up front. He is improving. The other one I am intrigued with is Missed Approach. Warren Greatrex’s gelding finished ahead of A Genie In Abottle when second in the NH Chase over four miles at Cheltenham last March. His form is a bit inconsistent but he also has a decisive win against Label Des Obeaux at level weights at Lingfield last January on his CV - and yet is now 8lb better off. If he is on his A-game, he is attractively weighted looks a big price at the . Incidentally, that Lingfield win was gained after he had been operated on for a wind problem, which leads us nicely onto that topic. DECLARATION OF WIND OPS HAS WIDER ISSUES There are a lot of people getting very wound up about the official decision to declare, from January 19, which horses have had a wind operation since their last run. This has many implications. For starters, it is information that might be useful to those thinking of having a bet. How often do we hear after a horse has just won that he or she has been recently operated on for a soft palate, for example. That said, not all wind operations work, of course. It’s like a horse being fitted with blinkers or a visor for the first time, they might have an incredibly positive effect or none at all. That’s the chance you take, but the information is going to be there. Some horses have had many different types of operation to help them breathe and the new rule will refer to five different types of surgery. If this information is to be processed and recorded properly, then we could see patterns emerging about certain types of stallion, for example. There will be opposition to this as it will cause somebody’s expensive bloodstock asset to be more closely scrutinised with the risk of a loss of value. But surely transparency is the most important thing of all in the long run. I have often wondered about how and why certain racehorses, who had well documented leg or knee issues, were being retired to stud and allowed to cover hundreds of mares with the inevitable chance that the same problems would be passed on to the progeny. For example, Celtic Swing was one of the best racehorses I have seen. I will never forget the way he trounced Singspiel at Ascot as a two-year-old by eight lengths before winning the Racing Post Trophy by 12 lengths. He was a machine. However, it was well known that he didn’t have the best legs and that is why his owner Peter Savill, having watched his colt fail to handle The Dip when runner-up in the 2,000 Guineas, decided to miss Epsom and run instead in the Prix du Jockey Club. It proved an inspired decision. I was always curious to see how Celtic Swing would do at stud, given that those dodgy pins still carried an incredible engine. The answer – not that well, although he did sire those brilliant performers Six Perfections and Takeover Target. You pay your money and you take your choice and, I don’t know about you, but if I were thinking of investing thousands on a stallion who had fragile legs and/or breathing issues, I would think twice about it. Give me one proven both sound in wind and limb. I wonder how many of those are around? There are far too many horses suffering from poor breathing because they are victims of their genes and it could be that one long-term advantage of this new rule might prove beneficial to the whole breed. I am no breeding expert, but I am guessing that some bloodlines will emerge with a better reputation than others. DETTORI’S DAYS WITH AL SHAQAB NUMBERED? Not that he will be too worried about it, with both Enable and Cracksman standing by for him, but Frankie Dettori’s retainer with Al Shaqab Racing looks to be coming to its natural end. Last season, the Al Shaqab colours had their best days in France, courtesy of dual Classic hero Brametot, who was ridden in all his starts by Christian Demuro, and the high-class Al Wukair, usually partnered by Gregory Benoist but who won the Prix Jacques le Marois under Dettori last August. Both colts have now been retired to stand at Al Shaqab’s Haras De Bouquetot, however. Play Video Al Wukair - Prix Jacques Le Marois - 13/08/17 Back in the UK, pickings at the top table were few and far between with the French-trained Qemah’s win at Royal Ascot (under Benoist) the exception. The shift at Al Shaqab definitely seems to be favouring the fare across the Channel and, indeed, the headquarters of the operation remains in France where most of their stallions are based. Al Shaqab has been credited by Dettori himself with giving him a new lease of life after he had split from Godolphin and the association has been a successful one, with the likes of Olympic Glory and Galileo Gold providing the high points. However, with no obvious Classic aspirant in training over here, I would imagine that the logic of keeping Dettori on a retainer has probably been discussed and I would be surprised if the status quo will be maintained going into 2018.
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Post by dennisg on Nov 30, 2017 7:48:42 GMT
Wholestone is on course to clash with Thistlecrack and Unowhatimeanharry – along with his recent Wetherby conqueror Colin’s Sister – in Friday’s Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury. Nigel Twiston-Davies’ charge was among the best staying novice hurdlers last season, winning a pair of Grade Two events at Cheltenham before finishing third behind Penhill in the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at the Festival. He’s run twice this season, finishing second to Colin’s Sister, beaten two lengths, in the Bet365 Hurdle at Wetherby last time. Anthony Bromley, racing manager for Wholestone's owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, said: "Wholestone is well and the plan is to run at Newbury on Friday. The owners were at Nigel's last Friday and Wholestone was looking good on the gallops. "He was put up 10lb for running second at Wetherby, so we had to call off the idea of going for what was the fixed brush hurdle at Haydock last Saturday. "Friday's race looks a Grade One in all but name. Even with the rise, Wholestone is still 15lb off Thistlecrack's rating and we have got to give him 3lb. I thought Unowhatimeanharry looked good at Aintree the other day when he beat Top Notch, and we have got form to turn around with Colin's Sister. "It looks a tough engagement for Wholestone but it is the only one we can do, other than waiting for level weights in the G1 Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot next month." Wholestone is for Friday’s feature behind and Unowhatimeanharry who is a .
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 8:18:03 GMT
Thursday: going, weather & non-runners Musselburgh GOING: GOOD (GoingStick 6.8 at 6.30am) (Rail movements: R1, 2 & 5 +132y, R3 & 7 +67y) WEATHER: Showers Newcastle (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Rain STALLS: Centre NON RUNNERS: 7:45 Gin In The Inn (5) 8:45 Meccabah (6) Taunton GOING: GOOD (GoingStick 5.8 at 6am) WEATHER: Sunny NON RUNNERS: 12:50 Desiremoi D'Authie (3) 3:20 Marju's Quest (1) Thurles GOING: Chase course - SOFT; Hurdle course - SOFT TO HEAVY WEATHER: Partly cloudy Towcester GOING: GOOD (Good to soft in places) (GoingStick 8.3) (Rail movements: R2 & 6 -45y) WEATHER: Partly cloudy
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 8:18:55 GMT
8:00PM, NOV 29 2017 Newmarket: Anthony Burke
Strange Society (7.15 Newcastle, nap)
Recovered from a slow start to post an eye catching effort on debut a few weeks back. If he can get away on terms he could be hard to beat here.
Others to follow Newcastle: 6.15 Western Way, 6.45 Obeigada, 8.45 Valley Of Light, 9.15 Dream Start Towcester: 12.40 Potters Hedger, 2.40 Potters Midnight.
6/4 Strange Society 7:15 Newcastle (AW) Lambourn: James Burn
Affaire D'Honneur (2.00 Musselburgh, nap)
Ultimately disappointing last season, but trainer Harry Whittington's runners are in much better form now and this six-year-old – highly regarded at one time – looks nicely handicapped off 121.
Others to follow Newcastle: 6.45 Trick Shot Jenny, 7.15 Not After Midnight, 8.15 Intermodal, 8.45 Ambrosia. Taunton: 12.20 Diese Des Bieffes, 1.20 Comely. Towcester: 12.40 The Ogle Gogle Man, 1.40 Bastien, 3.40 Laughing Luis.
11/8 Affaire D'Honneur 2:00 Musselburgh West Country: Tim Mitchell
Who's My Jockey (1.40 Towcester, nap)
Well-regarded four-year-old who appreciated the step up in distance to open his account after an encouraging start over hurdles. With further improvement expected, he is reckoned to be on a fair mark now tackling handicaps at a track that should play to his strengths.
Others to follow Taunton: 12.20 Challico, 12.50 Brahms De Clermont, 1.20 One Of Us, 1.50 Captains Buck's, 2.20 Ambre Des Marais, 2.50 Double Accord, 3.20 Soulsaver. Towcester: 2.40 Timeforben, 3.10 Kayf Adventure.
9/4 Who's My Jockey 1:40 Towcester North: Colin Russell
The Wise One (12.30 Musselburgh, nap)
Winner over course and distance last season, and though below his best on return to action earlier this month, he will improve for that run and is fancied to bounce back for his in-form yard.
Others to follow Musselburgh: 1.00 Angel's Envy, 1.30 Whiteoak Stroller, 2.00 Kalaniti, 2.30 Silver Concorde, 3.00 Thankyou Very Much, 3.30 Karamoko. Newcastle: 5.45 Chaucer's Tale, 7.15 Cirrus Minor, 7.45 Handsome Dude, 8.15 Maraakib, 9.15 Breathoffreshair.
5/2 The Wise One 12:30 Musselburgh Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Bastien (1.40 Towcester, nap)
Lightly raced and on a favourable handicap mark, he shaped well in a race not run to suit on his recent Sandown reappearance.
3/1 Bastien 1:40 Towcester Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Breathoffreshair (9.15 Newcastle)
Dual winner at the track this month, escapes a penalty for last week's fluent success and a hat-trick looks on the cards.
Evs Breathoffreshair 9:15 Newcastle (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Milord (1.40 Towcester)
He has not been firing on all cylinders lately, but this course and distance winner should have it in the locker to go well off a mark of 118 on ground that will suit.
14/1 Milord 1:40 Towcester Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Jett (12.25 Thurles)
The Jessica Harrington-trained six-year-old has shown a fair level of form in four of his five previous attempts over fences, most recently when fourth behind Mossback over 2m3f at Naas early this month, and Robbie Power's mount can prove the pick in today's 2m2f beginners' chase.
7/4 Jett 12:25 Thurles Members can read the latest exclusive tipping content such as Pricewise and Paul Kealy from 8pm daily on racingpost.com
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 8:20:06 GMT
TAUNTON
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.20 Diese Des Bieffes
12.50 Brahms De Clermont
1.20 One Of Us
1.50 Beau Du Brizais
2.20 Cabernet D’alene (nb)
2.50 Double Accord
3.20 Soulsaver
GIMCRACK
12.20 Challico
12.50 Brahms De Clermont
1.20 Comely
1.50 Joe Farrell
2.20 Ambre Des Marais
2.50 Ballyegan
3.20 Ice Konig
TOWCESTER
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.40 The Devils Drop (nap)
1.10 Classic Jewel
1.40 Who’s My Jockey
2.10 Hurricane Rita
2.40 Spice Girl
3.10 Perfect Pirate
3.40 Involve
GIMCRACK
12.40 Linenhall
1.10 Classic Jewel
1.40 Bastien
2.10 Cosmic Diamond
2.40 Spice Girl
3.10 Kayf Adventure
3.40 Laughing Luis
NEWCASTLE
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.45 Jessie Allan
6.15 Lukoutoldmakezebak
6.45 Obrigada
7.15 Strange Society
7.45 Kenny The Captain
8.15 Ingleby Angel
8.45 Middle Creek
9.15 Breathoffreshair
GIMCRACK
5.45 Chaucer’s Tale
6.15 Hisar
6.45 Blue Havana
7.15 Strange Society
7.45 Right Touch (nap)
8.15 Maraakib
8.45 Ambrosia
9.15 Yorkshire Rover
MUSSLEBURGH
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.30 The Wise One
1.00 Ange Des Malberaux
1.30 Canny Style
2.00 Affaire D’honneur
2.30 Silver Concorde
3.00 Civil Unrest
3.30 Colby
GIMCRACK
12.30 Court Baloo
1.00 Angel’s Envy
1.30 Canny Style
2.00 Affaire D’honneur
2.30 Silver Concorde
3.00 Muwalla (nb)
3.30 Karamoko
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 8:20:32 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:03:05 GMT
Musselburgh, 30 Nov 17 Race 1 - 12:30pm THE BORDER SAFEGUARD HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) (DIV I) Brian Hughes reported that BORDER VICTOR, which was pulled up, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
The Veterinary Officer reported that THE WISE ONE (IRE), placed second, finished lame right fore.
Race 2 - 1:00pm THE BORDER SAFEGUARD HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) (DIV II) Kieron Edgar, the rider of APACHEE PRINCE (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip after the final hurdle without allowing his mount time to respond.
Race 3 - 1:30pm THE SALTIRE FESTIVAL MARES' MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Clerk of the Scales reported that Jordan Canavan, the rider of SPEEDBIRD ONE, unplaced, trained by Stuart Crawford, had weighed in at 10st 8lbs having weighed out at 10st 5lbs. The rider, the trainer’s representative and the Clerk of the Scales were interviewed. Canavan was suspended for 1 day for weighing in at 3lb overweight, having had a drink after weighing out.
The Veterinary Officer reported that CARTA BLANCA (IRE), which was pulled up, had bled from the nose.
Race 5 - 2:30pm THE ISN'T IT WISER TO BET AT racinguk.com MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of MIGHTY THUNDER, unplaced, during routine testing, found the gelding to have lost its left front shoe and to have suffered a small overreach.
Kieron Edgar reported that his saddle slipped on OKEY DOKEY (IRE), which was pulled up.
Race 7 - 3:30pm THE WATCH RACE REPLAYS AT racinguk.com MAIDEN OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) Trainer Paul Stafford, was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of SAYYESTOTHEDRESS (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing. View Stewards report Taunton, 30 Nov 17 Race 4 - 1:50pm THE BET totequadpot AT betfred.com STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 3) The winner, LOVELY JOB (IRE), jumped left-handed at the last fence taking BEAU DU BRIZAIS (FR), placed second, slightly off its intended line, 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 LOVELY JOB (IRE).
Following the race Sean Bowen reported that JOE FARRELL (IRE), placed fourth, felt wrong. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 6 - 2:50pm THE BET toteWIN AT betfred.com HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) Johnny Farrelly was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of JUMP AND JUMP (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing.
Following the race Miss Brodie Hampson reported that she lost an iron on LADY JAMESON (IRE) and as she was unable to get it back she pulled the mare up. Sean Bowen reported that THEGIRLFROMMILAN (IRE), unplaced, was never travelling. The representative of Rebecca Curtis reported that THEGIRLFROMMILAN (IRE) had a breathing problem.
Race 7 - 3:20pm THE COLLECT totepool WINNINGS AT BETFRED SHOPS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Following the race Sean Bowen reported that PRINCESS ROANIA (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its action but appeared to return sound and James Best reported that IT’S ALL AN ACT (IRE), unplaced, stopped quickly. View Stewards report Towcester, 30 Nov 17 Race 2 - 1:10pm THE FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @starspreads_bet HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) The winner, SOME FINISH (IRE), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Ludlow on 26 October 2017 where the gelding finished fifth of seven, beaten by 72 lengths. Robin Dickin’s explanation that the gelding appreciated the return to a more galloping track on this occasion was noted. SOME FINISH (IRE) was routine tested.
Race 3 - 1:40pm THE WEATHERBYS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) Permission was given for MAGUIRE’S GLEN (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race, Ciaran Gethings reported that NOW MCGINTY (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling.
Race 4 - 2:10pm THE WEATHERBYS RACING BANK MARES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) The sponsorship in relation to GEORGINA JOY, trained by Nigel Hawke, did not comply with the Sponsorship Code of Conduct. Hawke was warned as to his responsibility to ensure that the correct sponsorship is carried.
The performance of PRETTYLITTLETHING (IRE), which finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Neil Mulholland could offer no explanation for the mare’s performance other than that Tom Scudamore had reported at Scales that PRETTYLITTLETHING (IRE) was never travelling.
Following the race, Ian Popham reported that KIKIMORA, which was pulled up, hung left-handed throughout.
Race 6 - 3:10pm THE AGETUR UK "CONFINED" NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of BALLYARTHUR (IRE), which was pulled up, during routine testing, revealed the gelding had bled from the nose.
Race 7 - 3:40pm THE WEATHERBYS HAMILTON "JUNIOR" STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) TOPOFTHECOTSWOLDS (IRE) wore earplugs.
Kielan Woods, the rider of AZUMINI (FR), was unseated approximately four furlongs out. The rider and Mr Tommie M. O’Brien, the rider of the winner, THISTLE DO NICELY (IRE) and Leighton Aspell, the rider of THINK POSITIVE (IRE), placed fourth, were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. It was found that the incident was accidental and was caused by AZUMINI (FR) stumbling independently and unseating Woods.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that TEST RISE (IRE), unplaced, lost its right hind shoe. View Stewards report Newcastle, 30 Nov 17 Race 2 - 6:15pm THE sunbets.co.uk APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) MR POTTER wore earplugs which were removed at the start and permission was given for the gelding to go early to post. Permission was also given for VECHEKA to go early to post.
Race 5 - 7:45pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Permission was given for KENNY THE CAPTAIN (IRE) and MONT KIARA (FR) to go early to post and BOSHAM to be mounted in the chute.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:03:49 GMT
Richard Johnson gave up several rides at Towcester on Thursday after suffering a fall in the opening race.
The champion jockey was partnering the Dr Richard Newland-trained Aaron Lad in the two-and-a-half-mile novices' hurdle when his mount fell at the second flight.
Johnson walked away from the incident, but stood himself down for the remainder of the card.
Towcester clerk of the course Robert Bellamy said: "Richard is having some physiotherapy and hopes to be back riding tomorrow."
Johnson has three booked rides at Newbury on Friday and is due to partner Missed Approach in the Ladbrokes Trophy on Saturday.
Bellamy also confirmed that 7lb claimer Fergus Gregory was taken to Northampton General Hospital after falling from Golan Future in the two-mile-five-furlong handicap hurdle.
Bellamy added: "Fergus has slight concussion and has gone to hospital for further assessment on a possible shoulder injury."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:08:47 GMT
FRIDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:50 NEWBURY Ladbrokes Novices' Chase (Registered As The Berkshire Novices' Chase) (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m4f ITV4 2:25 NEWBURY Ladbrokes Open Handicap Chase Cl2 (4yo+) 2m4f ITV4 3:00 NEWBURY Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m ITV4 3:35 NEWBURY Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (4yo+ 0-145) 3m ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:09:56 GMT
The Jockey Club's ambition to develop Kempton for housing has been made more difficult by the estate's designation as strongly fulfilling the purposes of green belt.
A detailed assessment carried out by consultants Arup on behalf of Spelthorne Borough Council has examined every parcel of green belt in the area rating them weak, moderate or strong in meeting the five criteria of green belt land.
Kempton Park has been rated "strong" and although the council stresses Arup's report is not a policy or decision-making document on the release of green belt land for development it will form a key part of Spelthorne's evidence base for its local plan review.
Local residents were briefed on the report on Tuesday and campaigner Alan Doyle said although the verdict was "not the silver bullet", the Jockey Club would find it harder to secure planning permission it would require to build up to 3,000 homes at Kempton, which has been designated green belt since 1956.
The future of Kempton, which hosts its annual highlight the 32Red King George VI Chase on December 26, was put on the line last January when the Jockey Club disclosed it had partnered with builders Redrow in putting forward the racecourse as a potential site that could meet local housing needs in response to a call from the council.
It hoped to raise at least £100 million which would help support a £500m investment in racing over ten years which would include the creation of a new all-weather track in Newmarket and major upgrade at Sandown. The Jockey Club said racing would continue at Kempton until at least 2021.
Doyle, of Keep Kempton Green, said: "It is not the silver bullet as far as we are concerned but it would be infinitely more difficult to stop development on Kempton Park if it was not strong. Arup has designated the entire estate as strongly fulfilling the five purposes of green belts which we have been arguing for about four years.
"That doesn't mean the Jockey Club aren't going to make strong representations in the other direction. We fully expect them to. They will try to pick holes in the methodology, but as far as we are concerned that is robust.
"We were glad to see that Arup agreed with us. There are some areas designated strong performers elsewhere that Arup says parts should be developed, but not along that north-eastern edge.
"We will find out what happens when it comes up for public consultation next year which we are expecting in the spring. There have been very public statements from the council that they will protect green belt so we will see. It is good news for us."
Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:11:02 GMT
The number of active betting shops closed at a rate of more than 13 a week over the six months to September, according to the latest industry statistics.
Figures released by the Gambling Commission revealed profits made by operators within the remote gambling sector increased by ten per cent in the year to March 2017.
As bookmakers await crucial news on the government's future directives relating to fixed odds betting terminals, the commission's newest statistics showed the gross gambling yield (GGY) – the amount kept by operators after winnings have been paid out – for machines in betting shops was £1.8bn, as it had been in the year to September 2016.
GGY from over-the-counter betting was £1.39bn, or 43.5 per cent of business, much less than that for machines.
Showing a downward trend was the number of betting shops. Bucking the trend for one per cent falls over recent six-month periods, from March to September this year numbers slumped by 3.9 per cent to 8,502. That means there were 342 fewer shops than in March.
Malcolm George, chief executive of the Association of British Bookmakers, said: "The pace at which betting shops are closing is very bad news for the future of a retailer that has been a fixture of the high street for over 55 years.
"The government are currently consulting on gaming machines in betting shops. Any significant change in regulation could lead to over half of all shops closing and the loss of a further 21,000 jobs while doing nothing to address problem gambling."
The GGY for remote firms was £4.7 billion, representing a 10.1 per cent rise compared to April 2015 to March 2016.
Across the entire British gambling industry, the GGY was £13.7bn between April 2016 and March 2017, a 1.8 per cent increase on the figures for the previous 12 months.
Gambling Commission executive director Tim Miller said: "These latest figures show that the gambling market is continuing to grow, particularly in the online sector.
"However, with such growth comes a great responsibility for operators to prevent gambling-related harm to all consumers and the public.
"We would urge all gambling businesses to be acutely aware that as their market grows so too will our focus on ensuring consumers are protected."
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:11:41 GMT
Adam Beschizza has hit the ground running after becoming the latest British Flat jockey to swap a winter on the all-weather for a spell trying to break the US circuit.
Beschizza, who in 2015 completed the autumn double by riding the winners of the Cambridgeshire and Cesarewitch, has joined the jockey colony at Fair Grounds in New Orleans, where he has linked up with up-and-coming trainer Joe Sharp.
From ten rides, Beschizza has ridden three winners, all for Sharp, who is the husband of former top jockey Rosie Napravnik and trainer of Grade 1 Haskell Invitational winner Girvin. He has also ridden a second and four thirds.
"I didn't have a bad season at home but I have a good contact in Joe Sharp and have known him for years," said Beschizza, 25. "It is good for him to give me the leg up straight away. He is making my job very easy.
"I didn't expect him to give me this many opportunities. I thought it would be a slower start but I hoped to bag a few before the Churchill Downs meet ends when a lot of Joe's main jockeys will head down here."
Beschizza's 2017 tally of 38 winners was one short of his best tally and included a Listed victory on Hikmaa in the Radley Stakes at Newbury last month.
The Fair Grounds meet began this month and continues until March next year. Beschizza is riding at the track alongside Sophie Doyle, sister of James, and shares an agent with Jack Gilligan, son of former trainer Pat. Tom Queally is riding in California, where he has had two winners, Darryll Holland has gained seven successes in Florida, while Fergal Lynch is enjoyed his best campaign yet with 124 winners this year.
"I probably needed a bit of a new challenge after going from turf season to all-weather in the last three years," Beschizza said. "I have always liked the American scene and always thought I would love to give it a go.
"I have a visa now and I want to try to ride this meet and see how many winners I can ride and then come home and evaluate the situation. I am embracing the challenge but you have to ride winners to stay in the picture.
"I have not fallen out of love with English racing. I still think it's the best racing in the world, but there is one problem and that is prize-money. There are more opportunities for limited horses here and for good money."
Visit racingpost.com for all the latest international news
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:13:43 GMT
There were no high-profile absentees at the declaration stage for the Ladbrokes Trophy on Thursday morning with 2015 Gold Cup winner Coneygree heading a field of 21 runners.
The Willie Mullins-trained Total Recall, the mount of Paul Townend, is a general 5-1 favourite to land the £250,000 handicap chase.
He is one of three runners from Ireland. The last Irish-trained winner back in 1980 when the Michael O’Brien-trained Bright Highway landed the spoils.
Mullins also saddles the David Mullins-ridden Pleasant Company, while Noel Meade appears to have a leading chance with market principal A Genie In Abottle, a Listed winner at Wexford last month who will be a second ride at track for Sean Flanagan.
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:14:30 GMT
The attention has been on the jumps this afternoon but now all eyes are on the Flat with Newcastle staging an eight-race card starting at 5.45. Sprinters feature in the highlight 6f handicap (7.45) but there is a good spread of handicaps, maidens and a claimer to get stuck into through the evening.
Ambient 7.15 Newcastle It’s worth taking note when Roger Varian sends a runner to Newcastle. The Newmarket trainer boasts a 22 per cent strike-rate at the track this year, with four winners from 18 runners, and saddles Ambient in this juvenile novice median auction stakes. The son of Born To Sea has the ability to win this contest if returning to the form of his debut second at Lingfield in August.
5/2 Ambient 7:15 Newcastle (AW) Tropics 7.45 Newcastle Hertfordshire trainer Dean Ivory saddles his second and third runner on the all-weather at Newcastle with 2015 July Cup runner-up Tropics and topweight Kadrizzi lining up in the feature £11,500 6f handicap. Tropics ran well on his return from a six-week break when a staying-on fourth at Kempton at the start of the month and should be competitive in this open event, while Kadrizzi returns to action after 128 days off the track.
10/3 Tropics 7:45 Newcastle (AW) Breathoffreshair 9.15 Newcastle Shrewd placing from Richard Guest ensures Breathoffreshair escapes a penalty for his apprentice handicap success at the track six days ago as he bids for a hat-trick in the finale. The three-year-old son of Bated Breath is likely to be busy in the next 24 hours as he also holds an engagement at Southwell on Friday.
4/5 Breathoffreshair 9:15 Newcastle (AW)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:17:08 GMT
Hugh Taylor.
HUGH'S BEST BETS (SCALE 1-5 POINTS): 7.15 NEWCASTLE 1pt win NOT AFTER MIDNIGHT (8-1 Paddy Power, Betfair Sportsbook, 15-2 Labrokes, William Hill, 7-1 Coral, bet365)
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:18:06 GMT
Lawrence Taylor.
NOT AFTER MIDNIGHT A LIKELY IMPROVER AT NEWCASTLE
NOT AFTER MIDNIGHT (nap) didn't get the best of trips at Lingfield latest, and is better judged on the list-dominant speed rating of 84 she posted when runner-up to Sardenya at the same venue on her previous outing.
Still a maiden after five career outings on the level, this juvenile daughter of Big Bad Bob is probably taking time to come to herself, and could find this straight seven furlongs more to her liking.
Not one to dismiss lightly at her forecast odds of 8-1.
Newcastle 7-15 Stakes (Class 6) 7f
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Post by Kimmy on Nov 30, 2017 17:19:27 GMT
Today's top offer 21bet Register with 21Bet and place 5 bets of £10 or more to get a free bet of £10 and continue to get free bets when placing 10 bets each week.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 1, 2017 9:17:26 GMT
in today's sporting life........... Daryl Jacob reflects on Bristol De Mai, reveals what he wants for Christmas and looks forward to Wholestone and his other Friday Newbury rides in his latest column. Bristol just breathtaking What a feeling it was to ride Bristol De Mai in the Betfair Chase last Saturday at Haydock. Wow, he was magnificent. He jumped great, travelled, galloped. He took them out of their comfort zone and demolished them. When he’s as good as that I can ride him however I want. I gave him breathers and filled him up plenty of times and he just kept on going. Bring on the King George VI Chase. I don’t think he’ll have any problem going right-handed at Kempton, but all I want for Christmas is rain, rain and more rain! If the ground conditions are in his favour again he’ll have a superb chance so fingers crossed we get plenty of wet weather. ITV Racing ✔ @itvracing What.A.Performance Bristol De Mai wins the Betfair Chase. Watch the rest of the racing action on @itv now. 3:10 PM - Nov 25, 2017 13 13 Replies 89 89 Retweets 186 186 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Earlier on the card Delire D’Estruval battled well to win the Listed novices’ hurdle from Midnight Shadow. I thought he’d come on for his seasonal reappearance and he duly did. The conditions suited him as he was a good stayer in France. The handicapper has put him up to a rating of 135 but I’d imagine we’ll be looking at a Grade 2 or something similar next time, perhaps at Cheltenham. He’s going the right way. Being at Haydock I missed out on the ride on Top Notch at Ascot but it was great to watch him from afar and he looked to give Nico De Boinville a fair good spin. He’s one of my favourite horses in training and I can’t wait to get back on him, he certainly looked to have come on plenty for his hurdles run at Aintree where he took a good blow coming to the last. His trip looks to be 2m4f or 2m5f and I’m sure he’ll stick to that for now, but I don’t think he’d have any problem moving up to three miles at some point. Three on Friday On Friday I’ve got three good rides at Newbury including Wholestone in the Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle. He ran well giving weight to Colin’s Sister at Wetherby last time and gets a 3lb pull at the weights, so there’s hope he can reverse that form although, even if he does, he’s then got Thistlecrack and Unowhatimeanharry to contend with. It’s obviously a tough race but it was always going to be difficult for him this year and we’ve just got mind him a bit this season. He’s one for the future and he’ll be going chasing at some point. Friday’s race could be tactical as there’s no obvious front runner, so that’ll be on my mind, but I’m looking forward to it. He’s talented and improving so let’s see what he can do. Colin's Sister leads Wholestone Colin's Sister leads Wholestone at Wetherby Earlier on I ride Boreham Bill for Ben Pauling in the Ladbrokes Novices’ Hurdle and I’m looking forward to him. He goes very nicely at home and won a bumper so we’re excited to see what he can do over hurdles. He just needs to relax a bit but he’s schooled well. It looks a good race and it usually throws up a good horse so we’ll get an idea of where we’re at with him. Finally I ride This Is It for Nick Mitchell in the Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle over three miles that closes the card. He’s down at the bottom of the weights off 10 stone 6lb so I’ll be watching the kilos overnight as that’s just about as low as I can go these days. He won nicely at Exeter last time and the plan is to make plenty of use of him as he stays well. This is a better race than he’s been contesting, a 0-145, so it might be a little out of his grasp but he goes there in good form. Talking about his weight, obviously I can’t get down to 10 stone to ride Vyta Du Roc in Saturday’s Ladbrokes Trophy so I’ll be heading to Bangor – stay tuned to Sporting Life on Friday for the latest on those rides.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 1, 2017 9:18:19 GMT
Friday: going, weather & non-runners Chelmsford (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Sunny STALLS: 6f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 5:45 Goring (5)Spirit Of Belle (9)Aventinus (1) 6:45 Azpeitia (3) 7:45 Inuk (8)Snaffled (6) 8:15 Lacan (15)Trading Point (12) 9:15 Mutineer (2)Choral Clan (3) Doncaster GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Good in places on Hurdle course) (Rail movements: R1, 3, 6 & 7 +13y) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:30 Ink Master (1) 1:00 Stonecoldsoba (5) 2:35 Lough Salt (3) 3:10 Costard Watt (1)St George's Oval (12) Dundalk (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy Limerick GOING: SOFT (Soft to heavy in places) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:45 Soul Kaliber (8)Back Bar (15)Smithscorner (16) 2:50 Russian Regent (4) Newbury GOING: Hurdle course - SOFT (Good to soft in places); Chase course - GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) (GoingStick: Hdl 5.1, Chs 5.8) (Rail movements: R1 +104y, R2 +63y, R3 +122y, R4 & 5 +78y, R6 & 7 +181y) WEATHER: Sunny NON RUNNERS: 12:50 Exitas (5) Southwell (AW) GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD WEATHER: Mostly sunny STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 12:10 Swift Cedar (1) 1:40 Bubbly Bellini (1) 2:10 Tasaaboq (8) 2:45 Malaysian Boleh (8) 3:20 Breathoffreshair (7)
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Post by dennisg on Dec 1, 2017 9:18:58 GMT
Anita Chambers provides a selection for every race on Friday, including a fascinating renewal of the Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury. Newbury kicks off a fantastic two days of action, with Unowhatimeanharry taken to top the returning Thistlecrack in the Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle. Last year's King George hero Thistlecrack will be getting 6lb from Unowhatimeanharry and if he runs up to his mark of 170, he really should not be beaten. However, he is coming back from the best part of a year off and this is very much a prep for Kempton at Christmas, making Unowhatimeanharry the much more obvious choice. He only slipped up once last year, unfortunately coming unstuck on the biggest day of all in the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham, but he bounced back with victory at Punchestown and already has a win under his belt this term at Aintree. The nine-year-old was not visually impressive in beating Value At Risk on Merseyside, but the small field and slow early gallop were against him and he really asserted his authority after the last despite giving away lumps of weight. Harry Fry has made no secret of his charge's good health this term and he can continue to capitalise on that. Newbury Racecourse ✔ @newburyracing Excited about #Thistleclash? We are too and one of the young guns in our office has put together this short video ahead of tomorrow's big clash in the Ladbrokes Long Distance Hurdle. #justabitoffun #LWC 1:19 PM - Nov 30, 2017 Replies 3 3 Retweets 6 6 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Ben Pauling has high hopes for Willoughby Court and he can make the leap up to Grade Two company in the Ladbrokes Novices' Chase. Winner of the Neptune at last season's Festival, Pauling has wasted no time in pitching him into action over fences and it wasn't really a surprise to see him make a winning bow at Huntingdon at the beginning of November. He made slightly hard work of it that day, with his jumping not totally fluent but his class ultimately telling when push came to shove and he should be better for the outing here. Corked finally got off the mark at Chelmsford in mid-November and can kick on now with victory in the Bet totetrifecta At betfred.com Handicap back at the Essex venue. Hugo Palmer's charge finally got her head in front at the eighth time of asking in what could only be described as an ordinary maiden at best. Corked was sent off the 1/5 favourite for that heat and she made all to win by three lengths after hitting the frame on her four previous starts. Her confidence should now be riding high and she can make the most of a light weight in the hands of the ever-capable Josephine Gordon. Send Up should thrive for the switch back up in trip for the Bet toteWIN At betfred.com Handicap. A typical Sir Mark Prescott type, Send Up got off the mark at Brighton in September when first tried over 12 furlongs and showed she stays further when tackling an extended mile and five furlongs the next time. That now appears to be her minimum as she was outgunned over a shorter trip last time. Sporting Life selections CHELMSFORD: 5.45 Spirit Of Belle, 6.15 Blue Candy, 6.45 Daybreak, 7.15 Alba Del Sole, 7.45 Inuk, 8.15 CORKED (NAP), 8.45 Send Up, 9.15 Miss M. DONCASTER: 12.00 Dandy Dan, 12.30 No Ceiling, 1.00 Barton Knoll, 1.30 Gibbes Bay, 2.00 Monbeg River, 2.35 Lough Salt, 3.10 Net De Treve. DUNDALK: 5.30 Forlan, 6.00 Aggression, 6.30 Bunnie Eyes, 7.00 Born To Frolic, 7.30 Koybig, 8.00 Clear Skies, 8.30 Masalai, 9.00 Tropic Thunder. LIMERICK: 12.45 Cherokee Bill, 1.15 Suitor, 1.45 Draycott Place, 2.15 Lockeen Girl, 2.50 Dromore Lad, 3.25 Let's Twist Again, 3.55 Motown Girl. NEWBURY: 12.20 Present Ranger, 12.50 Bigmartre, 1.20 Robin Waters, 1.50 Willoughby Court, 2.25 Ridgeway Flyer, 3.00 Unowhatimeanharry, 3.35 Hello George. SOUTHWELL: 12.10 Coroberee, 12.40 Captain Bob, 1.10 Flying Raconteur, 1.40 Zaeem, 2.10 Swot, 2.45 Pearl Acclaim, 3.20 Topmeup. DOUBLE: Corked and Unowhatimeanharry.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 1, 2017 9:19:04 GMT
BANKER
Willoughby Court (1.50 Newbury)
Yanworth was unlucky to fall at Exeter, but Willoughby Court won the Neptune fair and square last season, has yet to do anything wrong and is the new kid on the block. It wasn't pretty early on but he got the job done on chasing debut at Huntingdon, where he gave Casablanca Mix 7lb – she has since bolted up over course and distance – and the only other horse to run since, fourth-placed Toviere won a competitive chase at Ascot. I expect a much more polished performance here and going left-handed should bring out plenty of improvement.
2/1 Willoughby Court 1:50 Newbury DARK HORSE
Drumlee Sunset (2.00 Doncaster)
Having his first start for Tom George, Drumlee Sunset can record his second win over fences in what looks an easier race than most of the races he has ever contested. He beat Coral Cup winner Aux Ptit Soins on chasing debut and then ran in to Group 1 performers Aso and Clan Des Obeaux. Ciaran Gethings takes off 3lb, these conditions look sure to suit and he can put up a bold bid under topweight.
3/1 Drumlee Sunset 2:00 Doncaster
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 1, 2017 9:19:41 GMT
West Country: Tim Mitchell
Whataknight (3.35 Newbury, nap)
Reliable staying handicapper who produced a decent effort off this mark over course and distance last time. Conditions to suit and another bold showing is expected.
Others to follow Doncaster 1.30 Gibbes Bay, 2.00 Master Burbidge. Newbury 12.20 Lostintranslation, 12.50 Hell's Kitchen, 1.50 Adrien Du Pont, 2.25 Space Oddity, 3.00 Thistlecrack.
8/1 Whataknight 3:35 Newbury Lambourn: James Burn
The Organist (3.35 Newbury, nap)
Working her way back to form over hurdles and mark of 133 is all right. Her reappearance at Wincanton three weeks ago should sharpen up this capable mare.
Others to follow Doncaster 12.00 Captain Peacock, 1.00 Peggies Venture, 2.00 The Fresh Prince, 3.10 Invisible Clouds. Chelmsford 5.45 Spirit Of Belle, 6.15 Blue Candy, 6.45 Moon Song. Newbury 12.20 Simply The Betts, 12.50 Bigmartre, 1.20 Chef Des Obeaux, 1.50 Yanworth, 2.25 O O Seven. Southwell 1.10 Isstoora, 2.10 Swot, 3.20 Belgravian.
9/1 The Organist 3:35 Newbury Newmarket: Anthony Burke
Samharry (8.15 Chelmsford)
Looked a horse with a bright future when scoring on debut at Doncaster last year. Been on the sidelines since but fitness shouldn't be an issue as he has been showing up well in recent weeks and is expected to get his career back on track by winning here.
Others to follow Chelmsford 5.45 Human Nature 6.15 Elsaakb 6.45 Any Little Rhyme 7.15 Alba Del Sole 7.45 Conflagration 8.45 Send Up 9.15 Spun Gold Southwell 12.40 Majestic Moon 2.10 Ubla 2.45 Vroom 3.20 Anna Medici
North: Colin Russell
Chapel Stile (2.35 Doncaster, nap)
Has improved since stepping up trip, and form of his latest second at Kelso has worked out particularly well. Tries 3m for the first time today and fancied to go one better.
Others to follow Chelmsford 6.56 Lady Willpower, 7.45 Cat Ballou, 8.15 Waarif, 8.45 Naupaka. Southwell 12.10 Restive, 12.40 Malaspina, 1.10 Flying Raconteur, 1.40 Zaeem, 2.10 Shearian, 2.45 Dodgy Bob, 3.20 Braking Free. Doncaster 12.30 Ink Master, 1.00 Strait Of Magellanm, 2.00 Monbeg River, 3.10 That's Life.
9/4 Chapel Stile 2:35 Doncaster Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Manny Owens (1.00 Doncaster, nap)
Unfortunate to run into a rejuvenated rival at Catterick last week, but finished a long way clear of the rest of the field and should take all the beating off the same mark if in similar form today.
11/4 Manny Owens 1:00 Doncaster Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Forza Milan (3.35 Newbury)
A creditable runner-up in a strongly run Aintree handicap last month, Jonjo O'Neill's five-year-old can go one better.
11/2 Forza Milan 3:35 Newbury Longshot: Ed Quigley
Vibrato Valtat (2.25 Newbury)
Been below par recently, but has dropped to an attractive mark, will enjoy the cut in the ground and cannot be ruled out.
22/1 Vibrato Valtat 2:25 Newbury Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Let's Twist Again (3.25 Limerick)
The Joseph O'Brien-trained five-year-old has been in good form of late, winning two of his last three starts. Successful over today's three mile trip at Punchestown 12 days ago, he is now 8lb higher for that four length victory. Mark Walsh's mount gets the vote to cope with that rise in the ratings.
13/8 Let's Twist Again 3:25 Limerick
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