|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:39:16 GMT
Newmarket: Anthony Burke
Kyllachy Gala (1.35 Lingfield, nap)
Has ran two solid races in defeat since being gelded and was arguably unlucky the way the race unfolded at Wolverhampton last time. This race could be run to suit and he is a danger to all here if getting the breaks here.
3/1 Kyllachy Gala 1:35 Lingfield (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 11.30 Mother Of Dragon, 12.00 Arcanista, 12.30 Merdon Castle, 1.00 Show Stealer, 2.10 Come On Dave, 2.45 No More Commisery, 3.15 Red Invader. Lambourn: James Burn
Cosmeapolitan (1.35 Lingfield, nap)
Didn't really fire on the Flat this summer, but was not beaten far in a classy race over hurdles recently and a repeat of that puts him in contention.
8/1 Cosmeapolitan 1:35 Lingfield (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 11.30 Jazz Affair, 2.45 Ghepardo, 3.15 Don't Blame Me. Wolverhampton 4.20 Zenovia. North: Richard Young
Big Bad Dream (3.25 Ayr, nap)
Shaped well in a better race than this over the course and distance on debut in January, but failed to match that on sound surface on sole outing since. Ground here should suit better and fancied to go close on reappearance.
- Big Bad Dream 3:25 Ayr Others to follow Ayr 12.40 Saint Freule, 1.10 Titian Boy, 1.45 Trongate, 2.20 Craiganboy, 2.55 Celtic Flames. Lingfield 1.00 Dusky Maid, 1.35 Storm King, 2.10 Alsvinder. Wolverhampton 3.50 Fikhaar, 4.20 French, 4.50 Kyllach Me, 5.20 Hellavashock, 5.50 Cookie Ring, 6.20 Grey Destiny, 6.50 Mr Christopher, 7.20 New Abbey Angel. Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Big Bad Dream (3.25 Ayr, nap)
Shaped like a future winner when third behind the smart Sam's Adventure over course and distance in January and it could pay to ignore a subsequent disappointing run on better ground at Hexham.
- Big Bad Dream 3:25 Ayr Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Mr Christopher (6.50 Wolverhampton)
Has gained all four career success at this course, including three at this distance, and his recent Southwell second suggests he could click for the fifth time on his favourite stamping ground.
10/3 Mr Christopher 6:50 Wolverhampton (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Red Invader (3.15 Lingfield)
Not at his best lately, but has an excellent record over course and distance and, off a mark of 64, he looks more than capable of getting involved.
11/1 Red Invader 3:15 Lingfield (AW) >> There are no West Country or Irish tips today
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:39:50 GMT
BANKER
Gracious John (2.10 Lingfield)
Winner of this race last year off 6lb higher, Gracious John has been a stable star for David Evans in his short career and can record his ninth victory in 36 starts. He's had just over a month's break since finishing midfield in a Nottingham handicap but he goes equally well, if not better, on the all-weather and should go well as a fresh horse in this contest. He has had a tendency to hang right when under pressure down the straight, so look for Fran Berry to go the inside route after breaking well from stall five.
10/3 Gracious John 2:10 Lingfield (AW) EYECATCHER
Athassel (6.50 Wolverhampton)
Recorded all eight career victories for David Evans from December 2016 to May 2017, consequently seeing his mark go from 46 to 83. This all-weather specialist (ignore all of his runs on turf, he clearly does better on the synthetic surface) has looked ready to strike again with fifth and fourth-placed finishes the last twice and, now back down to his last winning mark, he should take this Wolverhampton prize.
8/1 Athassel 6:50 Wolverhampton (AW) EACH-WAY PLAY
Van Huysen (1.35 Lingfield)
Another to have won on this card last year, Van Huysen ended last season with three below-par runs in Class 2 company having scored on no less than three occasions over the winter and would have needed the run when making his seasonal reappearance in November. He's finished in the frame nine times from 14 starts at Lingfield, including winning on three occasions, and despite never scoring off this mark, he has 3lb claimer Callum Shepherd aboard and a nice racing weight of 8st 8lb.
25/1 Van Huysen 1:35 Lingfield (AW)
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:40:55 GMT
Lingfield
Cosmeapolitan (1.35) can get back to winning ways in the 1m2f handicap.
Alan King’s charge wasn’t disgraced in his most recent Flat race, finishing third at Bath in August, and he posted another encouraging effort over hurdles ten days ago after a break.
The four-year-old finished last of seven but was beaten only four lengths and looked set to be placed until his lack of match fitness told in the closing stages.
Alsvinder (2.10) looks the one to beat in the valuable 5f handicap. David O’Meara’s four-year-old failed to win on turf in the summer, but he is much more effective on artificial surfaces and was never headed at Wolverhampton last time out.
He has a decent draw and could easily repeat the trick if equally effective on his first start at this venue.
Entertaining Ben (3.15) has won twice since Amy Murphy reapplied cheekpieces and he can complete a hat-trick in the finale.
Wolverhampton
Grey Destiny (6.20) usually goes well here and another big run looks likely from Antony Brittain’s grey gelding in division one of the 7f handicap.
He often starts slowly but he closed to within a short-head despite a tardy getaway in October and went one better last time out, passing the entire field in the home straight.
A 4lb higher mark shouldn’t stop him in this company and he is taken to beat Gay Kelleway’s recent recruit Ubla.
Get tips for every race run in Britain from Tuesday to Sunday in this week's Racing & Football Outlook - out every Tuesday
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:41:27 GMT
Richard Hughes has a 25 per cent strike-rate in sellers and that increases to 33 per cent with selling debutants such as Inuk in the 11.30 at Lingfield.
Nick Alexander and Brian Hughes have an impressive 71 per cent strike-rate when combining at Ayr, as they do in the 1.10 with course-and- distance winner Titian Boy.
Nicky Richards has a 30 per cent strike-rate over the past fortnight with a 24 per cent strike-rate at Ayr. He saddles course winner Teddy Tee in the 2.55.
Archie Watson has a 31 per cent strike-rate at Wolverhampton and that increases to 33 per cent when combining with Edward Greatrex. They team up in the 4.20 with course-and-distance winner Zenovia.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:42:34 GMT
Lingfield
Robin Goodfellow
11.30 Mother of Dragons
12.00 Wild Flower
12.30 Billyoakes
1.00 Very Honest
1.35 Emenem
2.10 Alsvinder
2.45 Little Boy Blue
3.15 Entertaining Ben (nb)
Gimcrack
11.30 Inuk
12.00 Arcanista
12.30 Deer Song
1.00 Diamond Lady
1.35 Intrepidly
2.10 Alsvinder (nap)
2.45 Galloway Hills
3.15 Don’t Blame Me
Wolverhampton
Robin Goodfellow
3.50 Something Lucky
4.20 Jack Blane
4.50 Scotch Myst
5.20 Satchville Flyer
5.50 Sunshineandbubbles
6.20 Mansfield (nap)
6.50 Mr Christopher
7.20 New Abbey Angel
Gimcrack
3.50 Gorgeous
4.20 Jack Blane
4.50 Tally’s Song
5.20 Stamp Duty
5.50 Cookie Ring
6.20 Ubla
6.50 Ballymore Castle (nb)
7.20 Kaisan
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 8:43:00 GMT
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 12, 2017 8:51:16 GMT
in today's sporting life............. Today's meeting at Ayr plus tomorrow's at Hexham and Leicester are abandoned - while Wolverhampton inspect for their evening card. A planned 9am precautionary inspection at Ayr was brought forward after temperatures fell to as low as minus 7C overnight, not being expected to be above freezing until 10am. Officials at Wolverhampton will check conditions for racing today with a 10am precautionary inspection, although the course is reported to be "virtually clear" of snow. The card at Hexham on Wednesday has also been called off, with clerk of the course James Armstrong tweeting: "5th hard frost on the bounce (-3c last night) @hexhamraces & sadly Racing on Weds has been abandoned due to a frozen track & insufficient time for a decent thaw." Leicester's Wednesday meeting is another early victim and was abandoned at 7.30am on Tuesday after overnight temperatures hit -8c.
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 12, 2017 8:53:16 GMT
The Peterborough Chase has been rescheduled to take place at Taunton on Thursday. The Grade Two contest was part of Sunday's abandoned Huntingdon fixture, but the British Horseracing Authority has moved quickly to save the feature event. Stuart Middleton, racing operations manager at the BHA, said: "The Peterborough Chase is a historic and important race, and we are pleased to be able to reschedule it. "Our thanks go to Taunton for stepping up to stage the race at short notice, and we hope that racegoers, participants and punters all enjoy a fine renewal of a valuable contest." The race will be run for £50,000 over a distance of two miles and five and a half furlongs, with new entries closing at noon on Tuesday. The race will declare at the 24-hour stage as normal on Wednesday.
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 12, 2017 8:54:44 GMT
Jessica Harrington reports Our Duke to be recovering well after undergoing a back operation following his disappointing reappearance at Down Royal. Having rounded off last season with a stunning victory in the Irish Grand National, the seven-year-old began this campaign as a genuine Cheltenham Gold Cup contender. His reputation took a knock when he finished tailed off in last month's JNwine.com Champion Chase, but Harrington is confident he will bounce back in due course. Sky Bet make him , having quoted single-figure prices prior to that return effort. "Our Duke had an operation on his back, but is back out trotting for the last few weeks. We have to start cantering now because he's getting very fresh," said the Moone-based trainer. "He looks super and is moving super. I'm not sure when he'll be back, but he'll be back sometime shortly. "He had kissing spines and also scoped dirty after the race in Down Royal, so I'm not sure whether the pain of one caused the other or what."
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 12, 2017 8:56:18 GMT
News from Monday's card at Fontwell, where jockey Harry Skelton reached a century of winners for the season. Harry Skelton reached a century of winners for the season when Get On The Yager gave him a double at Fontwell. Skelton was achieving the feat for the third season in a row, having picked up 101 winners in each of the last two campaigns, but this was by far his fastest, and remarkably each one was trained by his brother, Dan. Get On The Yager (100/30), a smart novice hurdler last term, stepped up on his two previous efforts over the bigger obstacles to outpoint the in-form favourite Ramses De Teillee in the T I Engineering Crane Service Handicap Chase. The seven-year-old overcame errors at the fourth- and third-last fences to jump ahead at the final fence, going on to win by seven lengths. Skelton told At The Races: "I rode my 100th winner of last season on Rene's Girl at Ludlow in April. It hasn't taken as long (this season), but I couldn't have done it without my brother and the staff at home have been fantastic, they've got me 100 winners and I'm thankful for them." harryskelton @harryskelton89 Well it was a good day @fontwellpark to get 💯up for the season before Christmas, thankyou for all the messages, and everyone that has worked hard @dskeltonracing to make it happen. Don't stop now keep kicking!! 4:13 PM - Dec 11, 2017 23 23 Replies 19 19 Retweets 293 293 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy The trainer said: "It's brilliant for him, he works exceptionally hard and to do it before Christmas is amazing. "I'm sure he'd like to thank everyone who's made it possible - the owners, my assistant Tom Messenger, who drives him to most places, and I'm sure he's thinking of riding a lot more going forward. "It's been a remarkable transformation in his fortunes from four or five years ago. "We planned to have a good summer, we had one and that was the catalyst for what's happened. "Get On The Yager loved the ground and the trip." Roksana had put the rider on the 99-winner mark when she followed up last month's Plumpton success in the Salisbury Hardwood Flooring Mares' Novices' Hurdle. The 6/4 favourite handled the tough conditions well and was able to fend off her only serious rival The Vocalist after jumping the second-last flight to score by 14 lengths. Dan Skelton added: "Roksana did it under a penalty which is never easy." At The Races ✔ @attheraces One away from the century for @harryskelton89 as Roksana brings him his 99th win of the season at @fontwellpark: 1:56 PM - Dec 11, 2017 Replies 6 6 Retweets 23 23 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Skelton lies second in the jockeys' title race behind Richard Johnson, who took his tally to 116 with an all-the-way win on Greyed A (15/8) in the T I Engineering Novices' Handicap Chase. The six-year-old, trained by Dr Richard Newland, had a handy advantage for most of the near three-and-a-quarter-mile slog and kept up the gallop to score by eight lengths from Bobonyx. Robert Walford's Our Merlin (evens favourite) defied a 7lb penalty for a recent Plumpton victory when romping home in the John And Maryanne Birch Memorial Handicap Hurdle under Harry Cobden. Aiguille Rouge (9/2) pulled clear of the field in the NJS Juvenile Hurdle after being left in front by the fall of Marettimo three out to win by eight lengths from Acaro for trainer Gary Moore and his son, Jamie. Seamus Mullins' Norphin, the 20/1 outsider of four, got off the mark at the 31st attempt when outstaying his three rivals in the Libation Bar & Eatery Handicap Chase for Liam Treadwell, while 5lb claimer James Bowen steered Willshebetrying (10/1) home for Mark Hoad in the Boughton's Handicap Hurdle.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 11:09:50 GMT
WOLVERHAMPTON ABANDONED.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 17:19:56 GMT
Uttoxeter, 12 Dec 17 Fixture Note Abandonded - Snow Nothing to report View Stewards report Lingfield Park, 12 Dec 17 Race 2 - 12:00pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) An enquiry was held to consider interference in the final furlong when STRICTLY CARTER, placed third, ridden by Fran Berry interfered with WILD FLOWER (IRE), placed fourth ridden by Kieran O'Neill, which in turn interfered with KYLLUKEY, unplaced, ridden by Luke Morris. The interference was found to be accidental as Berry shifted marginally right-handed causing WILD FLOWER (IRE) to quickly shy away, prompting Morris to take a precautionary check.
Following the race, Luke Morris reported that KYLLUKEY, unplaced, suffered interference, Paul Hainey reported that his saddle slipped forward on ARCANISTA (IRE), unplaced, after 2 furlongs and Fran Berry reported that STRICTLY CARTER, placed third, was denied a clear run.
Race 3 - 12:30pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Following the race, Martin Harley reported that MERDON CASTLE (IRE), unplaced, was restless in the stalls and slowly away. The representative of Jane Chapple-Hyam reported that the gelding, having been scoped post-race, was found to have bled.
.
Race 5 - 1:35pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Following the race, Luke Morris reported that FANOULPIFER, unplaced, hung right-handed and Steve Drowne reported that STORM KING, unplaced, hung right-handed.
Race 8 - 3:15pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for SHACKLED N DRAWN (USA) to go early to post. View Stewards report Ayr, 12 Dec 17 Fixture Note Abandonded - Frozen Nothing to report
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 17:21:51 GMT
Jump racing will resume with a bang after two blank days in Britain as Taunton welcomes the transferred Peterborough Chase on Thursday.
Seven of the eight scheduled jump fixtures since Saturday have been lost with frost and snow claiming meetings at Ayr and Uttoxeter on Tuesday and Hexham and Leicester on Wednesday.
But Taunton provides an oasis of mild weather in Somerset and chief executive Bob Young said on Tuesday afternoon: "We haven't seen anything to worry us, we're raceable today.
"We're very lucky where we are, we seem to have our own microclimate, everywhere round us is frozen and snowed in and we've got temperatures of 9C, no freezing overnight, and it's all systems go."
The going was reported to be good to soft, good in places in advance of Thursday's card, which features the Grade 2 Peterborough Chase, salvaged from Sunday's cancelled meeting at Huntingdon
All bar two of the final Huntingdon field has been put in the £50,000 contest, including last month's Ascot Grade 2 winner Top Notch, who is among ten entries. However, Cue Card is set to wait for the King George VI Chase at Kempton. Regarding hosting the Grade 2, Young said: "You have to take your luck where you get it, we're extremely excited and this is fantastic for a small place like us. But without shouting from the rooftops we have done our best over the years.
"We're a right-handed track, the same as Huntingdon, and the ground is good, which backs up our policy of not watering in the autumn – sometimes there is a pay back and this is one."
Thursday's meeting at Newcastle hinges on an 8am inspection on raceday morning, while Warwick inspect at 8am on Wednesday for Thursday's card.
Warwick clerk of the course Jane Hedley said on Tuesday: "We can't be any more than hopeful. We have a covering of snow. It is due to get milder this evening and there is rain around, with the most optimistic temperatures around 5C – it's a watching brief and we'll know a lot more by the time of the inspection."
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 17:22:46 GMT
WEATHER PROSPECTS
WEDNESDAY
HEXHAM: Cancelled
KEMPTON (AW): No problems anticipated
LEICESTER: Cancelled
LINGFIELD (AW): No problems anticipated
WOLVERHAMPTON (AW): Equine areas to be made safe for card switched from Tuesday
THURSDAY
CHELMSFORD (AW): Heavy rain and warmer temperatures expected to thaw remaining snow on Wednesday
NEWCASTLE: Inspection 8am Thursday, frozen in places but frost sheets down and temperature due to rise to 5C on Wednesday
TAUNTON: No problems anticipated
WARWICK: Inspection 8am Wednesday, snow cover in most areas
FRIDAY
BANGOR: Course remains covered in snow but temperatures are forecast to rise – "optimistic but not confident"
CHELMSFORD (AW): Heavy rain and warmer temperatures expected to thaw remaining snow on Wednesday
CHELTENHAM: Course remains covered in snow but milder weather and rain is forecast
DONCASTER: Vulnerable areas covered and no concerns for Friday judged on latest forecast, though slight frost expected ahead of Saturday's card
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 17:23:36 GMT
Sizing John, the general 5-1 third-favourite for the 32Red King George at Kempton this month, will not run in the race, connections revealed on Tuesday.
Last season's Gold Cup hero looked as good as ever on his seasonal return last weekend when beating Djakadam in the John Durkan at Punchestown, but there will be no return to Britain this year.
Trainer Jessica Harrington said: "All being well, if he runs anywhere at Christmas it'll be at Leopardstown. It's only 16 days between his last run and Kempton. He was grand this morning, and we'll see how he is in the next week."
Harrington added that even though Leopardstown's Christmas Chase is only two days after the King George on December 28, it does afford the horse an extra 48 hours and the travelling is more taxing than crossing the Irish Sea over the Christmas period.
Tizzard tempted to run three
Although Sizing John will be absent, there could be more than a sprinkling of stardust for the King George, with Colin Tizzard considering running three of his stars; Cue Card, Fox Norton and Thistlecrack.
Perhaps the most intriguing contender of the Tizzard team is Fox Norton. Last season's Champion Chase runner-up is yet to race beyond two and a half miles, and went down narrowly to Politologue in the Tingle Creek last weekend.
Sizing John's absence could now pave the way for him to run at Kempton, as son and assistant Joe Tizzard, said at a press conference on Tuesday: "We spoke to Jessie ourselves yesterday and originally the plan was to keep the horses apart when they were going to have a crack at the £1 million bonus.
"Things have changed now, he's come out of the Tingle Creek very well and will be left in at the five-day stage."
Fox Norton is slightly bigger in the market at 8-1 than Thistlecrack, with his stablemate a 6-1 chance, and Tizzard said: "There wouldn't be much between Fox Norton and Thistlecrack if he gets the trip."
Thistlecrack's seasonal return may not have gone to plan when fifth behind Beer Goggles at Newbury, but he has been pleasing the Tizzards since that run.
"He's come out of his Newbury run really well, he's not missed a day which is really good," Tizzard said. "We think it was just down to the lack of fitness, as simple as that.
"He looks a lot tighter in himself and I'm sure he's fitter. We're confident you'll see a fitter horse at Kempton."
Veteran Cue Card could not live with Bristol De Mai's relentless gallop at Haydock in the Betfair Chase, but is on target to bid for a second King George, for which he is a general 33-1.
"We made an entry this morning for the Peterborough but I'm not sure two miles five round Taunton would be ideal for him nowadays," Tizzard added. "I think Mrs Bishop is keen to have another crack at a King George and he seems in good form."
Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 12, 2017 17:25:09 GMT
Goodwood racecourse has launched a video competition asking racing staff across the country to tell their story, with the winner receiving £1,000. The competition, details of which can be found under the social media tag #RacingLife, aims to highlight the long and often demanding working hours of stable staff around the country. The videos will be shown on Goodwood's social media sites this month and will be narrowed down to a shortlist of four finalists to be judged by a panel. The judges will be looking for videos with a sense of humour and creativity that also show insight into the everyday life of a racing yard. Entries for the competition can be sent via racinglife@goodwood.com and will close on December 31. For more information visit: Goodwood.com/terms-and-conditions/media-and-marketing. William Hill give stable staff charity chance to get into ring William Hill are giving stable staff in Yorkshire and the north of England a chance to make a sporting new year’s resolution and sign up to raise money for Racing Welfare. Racing staff, who must be over 18, can sign up for an eight-week training programme beginning on 12 January to get into the boxing ring at Goffs’ Doncaster Sales complex on 17 March next year. Former stable lad boxing champion Franny Norton said: “Back in the day, stable lads boxing was a huge part of my life, it gave me confidence and a level of fitness that helped enormously with my race riding. It’s fantastic that Racing Welfare and William Hill are giving today’s racing staff the opportunity to experience the adrenaline buzz of boxing – it’s the next best thing to riding in races!” Derby-based Ultra White Collar Boxing are supervising the training which will be in gyms in York and Ripon so will suit Yorkshire and northern racing staff. Dawn Goodfellow, Racing Welfare’s chief executive, said:“We’re delighted Goffs UK are letting us use the Doncaster sales complex which is a perfect amphitheatre for this and we have had a lot of interest from staff wishing to take part.”” Anyone interested should go to www.ultrawhitecollarboxing.co.uk/sign-up-racing/ or to find out more call Mary-Ann Sandercock on 07790 844887. Budd elected Jockey Club deputy senior steward Julia Budd, who made history in 2012 when becoming the first female steward of the Jockey Club, has been elected to the position of deputy senior steward of the organisation. Budd, 59, succeeds Andrew Merriam in the role which is effectively deputy chairwoman of the Jockey Club. Joining the Jockey Club's board of stewards for three-years starting on January 1 will be Dido Harding, best known in racing as owner of 1998 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Cool Dawn, and Sandy Dudgeon who has already served one term as steward. Senior steward Roger Weatherby said: "I would like to congratulate Julia on her appointment as deputy senior steward and thank Andrew for his considerable support in that role. Julia has made an excellent contribution as a steward and I look forward to working with her as the deputy on our board. "I am delighted to welcome Dido and Sandy as stewards. We will benefit hugely from their commercial expertise and passion for British racing as we look to support a bright future for our sport." Budd, a founding partner of leading international search firm The Zygos Partnership, is chairwoman of Epsom racecourse. She said: “It has been a privilege to act as a steward and now to be appointed as deputy senior steward. I have big shoes to fill in succeeding Andrew Merriam after the tremendous contribution he has made in the role, but I look forward to the challenge very much." Coffey hoping to overturn Navan non-trier verdict Restricted licence-holder Pat Coffey said he was "very surprised" he and his jockey Jonathan Fitzpatrick were found in breach of rule 212 A (ii) by the race day stewards at Navan on Saturday after the running and riding of The Monks Kitchen in the opening maiden hurdle. Coffey, who was fined €2,000 and his horse suspended for 42 days, said he would appeal against the decision. He said: "I was very surprised to be brought into the stewards' room over the weekend as nothing like that had ever happened to me before. We are hoping for a positive outcome at the appeal." Fitzpatrick was given a five-day suspension and it is understood that the rider has also lodged an appeal. No date has been set for the hearing. Mulrennan hit with 18-day ban Group 1-winning rider Paul Mulrennan is set for an extended Christmas break after a BHA judicial panel handed him an 18-day ban under the totting-up procedure for misuse of the whip. Although six of those days will be deferred until February 28, Mulrennan will be sidelined on the 12 days when Flat racing is scheduled in Britain between December 15 and December 29, having broken whip rules five times in the preceding six months. Mulrennan’s latest misdemeanour came at Newcastle on November 24, when he used his whip in the forehand position on 11 occasions within the last two furlongs – four above the permitted level of seven – when runner-up on Canadian George. The panel subsequently discounted two of the 11 strikes but in going two above the limit, the rider incurred a fifth suspension of between two and six days since June 14, prompting an 18-day suspension. While the entry point for such offences is 21 days, the panel took into account the fact that five offences occurred over nearly five and a half months, the large volume of rides he had in that time and the fact he had not previously been referred for a whip offence. The ban in effect ends any outside hope of Mulrennan reaching a century of winners for a third time in a calendar year, with 86 victories on the board in 2017 to date. Sam Waley-Cohen joins Jockey Club Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Sam Waley-Cohen is among nine new members of the Jockey Club appointed at the body's winter meeting on Monday. Waley-Cohen, 35, joins his father Robert as a member of the organisation, the largest commercial body in the sport in Britain. He said: "It's a great honour. It's a group of passionate, enthusiastic people with a great history and legacy and it's great to be part of it." Waley-Cohen, who won the Cheltenham Gold Cup aboard Long Run in 2011, added: "I'm a trustee of the Injured Jockeys Fund and it feels between that and the Jockey Club it's a great opportunity to give something back." Former champion amateur rider Thomas Greenall and Ranald Morgan, a former champion point-to-point rider, steward and Carlisle committee member, have also been appointed members. Lady Celina Carter, a steward at Ascot, Sandown, Lingfield, and Clarissa Daly, who is chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority and an Aintree committee member, were also appointed, along with Warwick's chairman Andrew Clark, Simon Marsh – racing manager to owner-breeders Madeleine and Andrew Lloyd Webber – Cheltenham committee member William Vestey and BHA appeal board member and steward Charles Warde-Aldam. Senior steward Roger Weatherby said: "I'm delighted to welcome our new members to the Jockey Club. Each has been appointed based on their passion, knowledge and commitment to our sport and to help us to fulfil our mission to act for the long-term good of British horseracing." Jockey Club members are in effect trustees of the organisation and may not profit from their role. Goldwag stepping down as Senet Group chair Wanda Goldwag is stepping down as chair of the betting industry's self-appointed watchdog the Senet Group to take up a new role in the health sector. She said: "It has been an honour working with Senet in raising awareness of the risks associated with excessive and problem gambling. I believe the lead players in the sector have a unique responsibility as well as a unique ability to deliver these messages. "The Senet Group has played a central role in crafting these messages and in securing the commitments made to deliver them and to limit various forms of advertising." Non-executive director Gillian Wilmot is to act as interim chair while the group reviews future plans. Wanda Goldwag is stepping down as chair of the betting industry's self-appointed watchdog the Senet Group to take up a new role in the health sector. She said: "It has been an honour working with Senet in raising awareness of the risks associated with excessive and problem gambling. I believe the lead players in the sector have a unique responsibility as well as a unique ability to deliver these messages. "The Senet Group has played a central role in crafting these messages and in securing the commitments made to deliver them and to limit various forms of advertising." Non-executive director Gillian Wilmot is to act as interim chair while the group reviews future plans. Look back on a sizzling year of racing in the new edition of the Racing Post Annual, which has 208 colour pages packed with the best stories and pictures of 2017. Order now at racingpost.com/shop or call 01933 304858
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 13, 2017 7:38:32 GMT
in today's sporting life.............. Ben Linfoot speaks to BHA handicapper Chris Nash after he rated Sceau Royal 161 while he assesses Blaklion's Grand National chances following an 8lb rise in the latest 'Weights & Measures'. Blaklion has tough task in Grand National Blaklion >>>> Up 8lb to 161 If Blaklion is to win the Grand National – and he’s a best-priced 12/1 to do so as the tinsel shimmers on the Christmas trees – then he’s in all likelihood going to have to do a Many Clouds and win the race off a mark in the 160 region. As things stand he’s rated 161 after going up 8lb following his Becher Chase rout and he’s probably not going to run again now until after the weights are released, perhaps just days after the weights are released, in the Haydock Grand National Trial in mid-February. Nigel Twiston-Davies has always had plenty of confidence in this horse, proclaiming after his defeat in this year’s renewal of the Grand National Trial at Haydock that ‘we will win the National and forget about today’ and he looked to have called it right when Blaklion went clear in the big one with four to go. He eventually finished fourth, and that stamina question mark remains, even if he was only beaten eight lengths and even if he is ridden with more restraint next April. On Saturday, he certainly was ridden with more restraint as Gavin Sheehan oozed confidence throughout. This time he took it up approaching the last and he powered home to win by nine lengths, the result never in doubt. His remarkable 7/4 starting price looked baffling (to me, at least) beforehand but it was clearly a reflection of the stable confidence behind the horse. Afterwards, Twiston-Davies was at it again, saying that Blaklion reminded him of Red Rum (he did add the caveat that ‘he’s got a lot to do to be anything like him’) but a National win off 160+ would go some way to adding credence to such a statement. Looking at those 12/1 odds right now, even if you fancy him strongly, I would wait until after he’s run at Haydock. There’s every chance he’ll get beat off 161 in that race – he was second in it last year off 152 – and if he is he might even be a few pounds wrong come the big one. In that scenario he could be a similar price come the day, but there’s no doubt he strongly ticks the ‘Aintree factor’ box and, even off a tough mark, a mark likely to be about 8 or 9lb higher than last year’s, his ability over the famous spruce means it’ll be tough to cross him off your National shortlist. Although, having said that, I suspect I’ll be doing just that considering the task that awaits him from a handicapping point of view. : Blaklion 10/1 for the Grand National Horses that have run off 160+ in the Grand National Don’t Push It – 160 – 3rd - 2011 Ballabriggs – 160 – 6th – 2012 Synchronised – 161 – Fell - 2012 Long Run – 160 – Fell – 2014 Tidal Bay – 161 – UR – 2014 Many Clouds – 160 – 1st – 2015 Lord Windermere – 161 – PU – 2015 Many Clouds – 165 – 16th – 2016 Silviniaco Conti – 163 – PU – 2016 The Last Samuri – 161 – 16th – 2017 Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife Never in doubt! 🍾 🏇Blacklion tipped at 11/4 by Simon Holt 💷Smashed into 7/4 😎Backers didn't even sweat 1:48 PM - Dec 9, 2017 Replies 1 1 Retweet 1 1 like Twitter Ads info and privacy Politologue improves to win sub-standard Tingle Politologue >>>> Up 4lb to 165 Much was made of the horses that weren’t there for 2017’s renewal of the Betfair Tingle Creek Chase, but the winner impressed with his jumping once again and he has the potential to progress to the level of Those Who Must Not Be Named. On the bare form, though, he wasn’t as sparkling as recent winners like Kauto Star, Master Minded, Sprinter Sacre, Sire De Grugy and Un De Sceaux. His effort was more Dodging Bullets, and the 165 number that horse recorded in the race was the exact figure Politologue has been awarded. "That’s partly because of Ar Mad bringing the form down and particularly Charbel, I couldn’t really rate it any higher than that considering the proximity of those two,” says BHA handicapper Chris Nash, who was in charge of doing the maths for the Tingle Creek and the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase. “But Politologue is progressive and all of his last three runs have been career-bests. He could easily rank higher but I couldn’t have him higher on Saturday’s performance.” When Dodging Bullets won the Tingle Creek he went on to win the Clarence House Chase and the Queen Mother Champion Chase after that, and Politologue is 8/1 at best to win the latter contest at the Cheltenham Festival in March. That sort of price is going to look massive if two horses in particular don’t turn up and you suspect he’s got more in the locker yet. Only six, and with only three chase runs over two miles under his belt, it would be pretty staggering if he doesn’t prove to be better than his current rating of 165 in time. : Politologue 6/1 for the Queen Mother Champion Chase Royal ranks high after Henry VIII romp Sceau Royal >>>> Up 8lb to 161 “The novice race was good, really good,” says Nash. “I have no qualms in saying that Sceau Royal is the best two-mile novice chaser we’ve seen this season and he’s now rated 161. “That’s 4lb higher than Altior was after winning the same race last year. His jumping was deadly, he was very quick through the air. I was really impressed as it was such a good race. Brain Power was a 160 hurdler, North Hill Harvey was 155, Finian’s Oscar looked outpaced but was 155.” High praise indeed for Sceau Royal and 161 is phenomenally high for a novice at this time of year. That’s due to the high quality of Saturday’s randoxhealth.com Henry VIII Novices’ Chase in which five last-time out winners from the top yards in the country did battle. Sceau Royal came out on top after travelling well and jumping superbly. He killed them for speed and, though it didn’t really allay any fears that he might not get up the Cheltenham hill, this clearly marked him out as novice chaser that’s going to take high rank. Backed in the aftermath of the contest for the Arkle, he’s a best-priced 8/1 now and the only reason he’s not favourite is because his owners, Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, also have Footpad, trained by Willie Mullins, who was electric on his chasing debut at Navan. The BHA don’t publish official figures for Irish races, but they do keep their own performance figures in case the need arises and Nash kindly revealed he’s pencilled in Footpad at 152+ following his chasing debut. Of course, we’ll see a more accurate representation of Footpad’s abilities as a novice chaser when he lines up in the Grade One Racing Post Novice Chase at Leopardstown on day one of their Christmas festival. But, as things stand, the Arkle market doesn’t reflect what Footpad and Sceau Royal have achieved over fences on the track. : Sceau Royal 6/1 for the Arkle Trophy Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 👏Congratulations to our columnist @dazjacob10 🏆 Wins the Henry VIII on Sceau Royal 1:59 PM - Dec 9, 2017 Replies 1 1 Retweet 5 5 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Other Weekend Winners On The Blind Side >>>> Up 8lb to 153 Gas Line Boy >>>> Up 6lb to 148 A Hare Breath >>>> Up 6lb to 145 Benbens >>>> Up 3lb to 138 On The Blind Side impressed in the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at Sandown on Friday, coping with the slight drop in trip from his Cheltenham assignment well. He looked to need every yard of 2m5f at Prestbury Park, but he improved on that effort at Sandown and is now rated 153, putting him firmly in the mix for the Ballymore at Cheltenham, a target Nicky Henderson seemed very definite about afterwards. At Aintree on Saturday Gas Line Boy won the Grand Sefton in style, despite being hampered by the fall of Arctic Gold four from home. He looks better than ever this year and will go for the National again, although he’s now 4lb higher than when fifth last year. The veterans’ chase at Sandown in early January, in which he was fourth last season off 3lb lower, looks a more attainable target. A Hare Breath goes really well fresh and he put in a career-best performance over hurdles to win the Jumeirah Hotels And Resorts December Handicap Hurdle at Sandown from Caid Du Lin. He’s up to a career-high mark of 145 now and will reportedly be kept fresh for the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March. Off his new rating, he’ll probably be in the upper middle echelon of the weights in that race and another career-best would most certainly be required. Also at Sandown, Benbens held on admirably from the running-on Sugar Baron to land the Betfair London National Handicap Chase. He’s rising 13 now, but he’s only up 3lb for this and remains 6lb lower than his career-high mark. He’s qualified for the veterans’ final as well. A Hair Breath (right) wins for followers of Value Bet A Hare Breath (right) has gone up 6lb to 145 Hike Of The Week Our Merlin >>>> Up 17lb to 103 Our Merlin was still in contention when unseating James Best at the third last at Plumpton in November, but that experience didn’t dent his confidence one jot as he absolutely hosed up by 21 lengths at the same track on December 4. Hit with a 17lb hike from 86 to 103, he won again at Fontwell on Monday under a 7lb penalty and is even entered again at Taunton on Thursday, although Robert Walford says he’s unlikely to take up the entry. I’m gonna keep lovin’ you down, down, down Skipthecuddles >>>> Down 3lb to 132 Mystifiable >>>> Down 2lb to 128 Cloudy Dream >>>> Down 1lb to 158 Three horses dropping ever-so-slightly down the charts this week that are worth keeping an eye on, or perhaps even sticking in your My Stable trackers. Down three at 132… Skipthecuddles, who shaped better than the 16-length defeat that’s in the record books at Southwell the other day, where he travelled nicely before his effort petered out. Even this fifth-place finish was something like a return to form and, off his new mark of 132, he’s one to watch out for in a handicap over slightly shorter. Down two at 128… Mystifiable. Fergal O’Brien’s grey nine-year-old ran really well in the Grand Sefton on ground that would be much softer than is ideal. He traded as low as 3.25 in-running before tiring late on but he’s on a really dangerous mark now having dropped 4lb in two runs and he’ll be on the radar when he runs over something in the region of 2m4f, especially on better conditions. Down one at 158… Cloudy Dream, a horse that shapes like a classy animal and will be of real interest when he runs over two-and-a-half miles again. Second over three miles at Aintree on Saturday, he tanked along but was simply outstayed by Definitly Red, a horse with deeper reserves of stamina. He’d be of interest in a top 2m4f-2m5f handicap and I’d love to see him at that trip in cheekpieces.
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 13, 2017 7:40:16 GMT
David Ord is pleased Wolverhampton has been rearranged for Wednesday - his best bet runs there. Recommended bet: Sporting Life's Daily Nap, December 12 Everything looks in place for SUNSHINEANDBUBBLES to record a second career success in the Follow Sun Bets On Twitter Handicap at Wolverhampton. Jennie Candlish's four-year-old has been in good form around Dunstall Park on her last two starts and was only reeled in late over a furlong further last time. The drop in trip will aid her cause as will being dropped a further two pounds by the assessor and the return of cheek pieces, an aid her former trainer used effectively. In addition there doesn’t look to be much competing for the early lead and she’s well drawn to get to the head of affairs and dictate matters from there. Cookie Ring is respected in what is a weak heat but this hold-up performer may find the selection has gone beyond recall by the time he hits top gear down the straight. Daily Nap record: +6.06pts
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:42:02 GMT
Wednesday: going, weather & non-runners Kempton (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Light rain STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 3:40 Belated Breath (9)Argon (1) 5:10 Valyrian (11) 6:40 Aristocles (11) 7:10 Echo Brava (7) Lingfield (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Light rain STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 12:00 Lagenda (9) 12:30 Strategic Heights (4) 3:00 Beast (10) 3:30 Captain Sedgwick (7) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 1:45 Nag's Wag (3)Bilash (11) 2:15 Bobby Vee (5) 2:45 Wedgewood Estates (7) 3:15 Sir Lancelott (2) 4:55 Adam's Ale (3)
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 13, 2017 7:42:17 GMT
Chris Wilson previews Wednesday's surviving race meetings and expects class to prevail at Lingfield. Makaarim must have every chance of winning back-to-back races when he is sent into battle in the feature race of the day at Lingfield. With nearly all of his rivals badly out of form, Hughie Morrison's three-year-old is unquestionably the standout name in the £11,500 handicap over seven furlongs. And such was the likeable nature to his triumph at Wolverhampton last month, it would be a big surprise if he did not come out fighting once again. Makaarim did reasonably well for Marco Botti in the summer, but a gelding operation and a transfer to Morrison's East Ilsley stables clearly had a galvanising effect on the son of Tamayuz. Though he only won by a neck at Wolverhampton, Morrison's inmate was well on top at the line and really enjoyed himself in a truly-run encounter. Makaarim is now 4lb higher in the weights, but he has only had nine runs in his life and is, by quite some distance, the most unexposed horse in this line-up. Fran Berry's first-time appointment is hardly off-putting, either. Fran Berry Fran Berry takes the ride on Makaarim Keep close tabs on Attain, who runs in division two of the mile-and-a-quarter handicap. Archie Watson's eight-year-old is nicely treated on his best form and was not beaten far in a blanket finish at this track on December 6. The decision to drop back in trip to a distance at which he has done most of his winning should stand him in particularly good stead. Viola Park is respected in a seven-furlong handicap beneath the Kempton floodlights. Ron Harris' three-year-old must have satisfied connections at Chelmsford earlier in the month when he got to within a length of Captain Pugwash in a moderate handicap. That was his first start since October and he is entitled to be a little sharper for this assignment. Sunblazer must surely be in his element back at two miles in the staying handicap on the card. The seven-year-old grey has won his fair share of races over this trip, including at Newmarket last month. He was also a proverbial eyecatcher at this track on November 22 when he stayed on sweetly to finish third behind the well-treated Entangling in a strong handicap over a mile and a half. Ballymore Castle can snap a long losing run in the sunbets.co.uk Handicap at Wolverhampton. Richard Fahey's charge has not won since May 2014 and was actually good enough to finish second in the Woodcote that year, boasting a rating of 100 at the start of 2015. He has been on the decline since then, dropping as low as a mark of 73 last time, but his recent efforts suggest he should not be totally written off. Sporting Life suggestions KEMPTON: 3.40 Azpeitia, 4.10 Bombshell Bay, 4.40 Rusper, 5.10 Highbrow, 5.40 Ignacio Zuloaga, 6.10 Viola Park, 6.40 Sunblazer, 7.10 General Hazard. LINGFIELD: 12.00 Goring, 12.30 Dutiful Son, 1.00 Top Beak, 1.30 Dash Of Spice, 2.00 MAKAARIM (NAP), 2.30 Music Major, 3.00 Attain, 3.30 Ravenhoe. WOLVERHAMPTON: 1.45 Gorgeous, 2.15 Jack Blane, 2.45 Tally's Song, 3.15 Stamp Duty, 3.50 Cookie Ring, 4.25 Ubla, 4.55 Ballymore Castle, 5.25 Kaisan.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:42:35 GMT
Newmarket: Anthony Burke
Dash Of Spice (1.30 Lingfield)
Looks to have been found the ideal opportunity to open his account after two solid efforts in maidens on the turf. He has looked in good form in his latest spins on the Cambridge Road all-weather and, from a decent draw, he can make his presence felt here.
5/4 Dash Of Spice 1:30 Lingfield (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 12.00 Lunar Deity, 1.00 Kohinoor Diamond, 2.00 Shyron, 2.30 The Gay Cavalier, 3.00 Genuine Approval, 3.30 Topmeup. Kempton 3.40 Monadee, 4.10 Dance Emperor, 4.40 Tribal Warrior, 5.10 Highbrow, 5.40 Sanam, 6.40 Vettori Rules, 7.10 Cliff Face. Lambourn: James Burn
Erinyes (1.00 Lingfield, nap)
Best two runs have come on the all-weather and sole win came after a break, so expect a decent show from this filly whose trainer Archie Watson has had a fine year.
13/2 Erinyes 1:00 Lingfield (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 12.30 Haraz, 1.30 Past Master, 2.00 Bobby Wheeler, 3.00 Attain. Kempton 4.10 Boomerang Betty, 5.40 Ignacio Zuloaga, 6.10 Vixen, 7.10 Bristol Missile. Wolverhampton 2.15 Zenovia. North: Richard Young
Kyllach Me (2.45 Wolverhampton, nap)
Patchy form since turf win in April but back on a good mark and will be suited by the return to this track (all three all-weather wins have been over this course and distance). Fancied to go well at a price from good draw.
11/1 Kyllach Me 2:45 Wolverhampton (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 1.00 Luv U Whatever, 2.00 Right Touch, 3.00 Ingleby Spring, 3.30 Ravenhoe. Kempton 3.40 Dubai Acclaim. Wolverhampton 1.45 Fikhaar, 2.15 French, 3.15 Hellavashock, 3.50 Cookie Ring, 4.25 Grey Destiny, 4.55 Mr Christopher, 5.25 New Abbey Angel. Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Cookie Ring (3.50 Wolverhampton)
Modest performer but staging a mini revival for new yard judged on latest win at Kempton. Just a fraction higher in the weights here in another weak race and fancied to follow up.
2/1 Cookie Ring 3:50 Wolverhampton (AW) Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Ingleby Spring (3.00 Lingfield)
Pleasing second on all-weather debut over a mile at Southwell last month and Richard Fahey's mare will appreciate this longer trip.
9/2 Ingleby Spring 3:00 Lingfield (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Miss Minuty (3.00 Lingfield)
On a long losing run but is starting to look well handicapped and, as a consequence, this course-and-distance winner could easily be in the mix.
18/1 Miss Minuty 3:00 Lingfield (AW) >> There are no West Country or Irish tips today
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:43:20 GMT
Sir Mark Prescott has a decent 20 per cent strike-rate when sending out runners wearing blinkers for the first time. Kohinoor Diamond (Lingfield, 1.00) gets the aid fitted and it’s worth noting that she has multiple entries later this wee.
Richard Hughes and Stephen Cummins are a combination to keep on side when teaming up at Kempton. They combine with Desert God (6.40), who drops down in class and can add to the pair’s impressive 57 per cent strike-rate.
|
|
|
Post by dennisg on Dec 13, 2017 7:43:50 GMT
Nigel Twiston-Davies reports Bristol De Mai to be "in the form of his life" ahead of the 32Red King George VI Chase at Kempton - and insists he'll handle any ground on Boxing Day. Speaking at a Winter Festival preview in the Pheasant Pub in Lambourn, the trainer said: "We are very much looking forward to Kempton and it is where the talking ends. He will certainly run. Just because he has won in heavy ground, he moves like a good ground horse and he seems to cope with most things. I think he is a very good horse. "I was looking last night and I think his birthday is the end of May. Basically all the racing he was doing (before this season) he was doing as a five-year-old. He is very young and let's hope he's improving." On the mouthwatering clash with Might Bite, Twiston-Davies added: "There is no collateral form between the two of them and we are hoping we can sort it out. "We are absolutely blinkered on the bonus - it's a very exciting idea. "He won a good race on the bridle at Haydock and it didn't seem to take anything anything out of him. You would be a fool to say it hasn't, but you don't notice and he is in the form of his life." 6/4 Might Bite 7/2 Bristol De Mai 7 Thistlecrack 8 Fox Norton 12 Djakadam, Douvan 14 Bar
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:43:53 GMT
3.00 Lingfield.
It's highly likely that Luxford would have won over course and distance on her penultimate start given any sort of luck in running.
Erase from memory a subsequent below-par effort at Chelmsford, and she has a serious chance of recording a fourth win of the year, reunited with Martin Dwyer.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:44:43 GMT
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 7:45:15 GMT
Kempton
Robin Goodfellow
3.40 Azpeitia
4.10 Dance Emperor
4.40 Tum Tum
5.10 Highbrow
5.40 Humbert
6.10 Viola Park
6.40 Azam (nap)
7.10 Cliff Face
Gimcrack
3.40 Azpeitia
4.10 Bombshell Bay
4.40 Rusper
5.10 Highbrow
5.40 Ignacio Zuloaga
6.10 Viola Park
6.40 Sunblazer (nb)
7.10 General Hazard
Wolverhampton
Robin Goodfellow
1.45 Something Lucky
2.15 Jack Blane
2.45 Scotch Myst
3.15 Satchville Flyer
3.50 Sunshineandbubbles
4.25 Mansfield
4.55 Mr Christopher
5.25 New Abbey Angel
Gimcrack
1.45 Gorgeous
2.15 Jack Blane
2.45 Tally’s Song
3.15 Stamp Duty
3.50 Cookie Ring
4.25 Ubla
4.55 Ballymore Castle
5.25 Kaisan
Lingfield
Robin Goodfellow
12.00 Easy Tiger
12.30 Dutiful Son
1.00 Take Two (nb)
1.30 Mundersfield
2.00 Alfred Hutchinson
2.30 Estibdaad
3.00 Attain
3.30 Flying Sakhee
Gimcrack
12.00 Goring
12.30 Dutiful Son
1.00 Top Beak
1.30 Dash Of Spice
2.00 Makaarim (nap)
2.30 Music Major
3.00 Attain
3.30 Ravenhoe
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 12:30:38 GMT
ITV Racing's main presenter Ed Chamberlin believes racing needs to learn from other sports and become less reactionary if it is to increase its popularity.
Chamberlin's message was delivered in a speech at the 247th Gimcrack Dinner at York racecourse on Tuesday night when he told guests that much-maligned racecourse concerts were a way to educate people about racing and that jockeys were vital in helping promote the sport.
He said he believed there was much ITV could do to move the sport forward, adding: "But to do that we need your help."
Chamberlin, who returned to racing having been one of Sky's main football presenters, said that in contrast to football the language of racing "intimidates and restricts" and needed "demystifying."
He added: "Some frown on concerts that are now so popular at race meetings in the summer. To me they offer a perfect opportunity to educate people about our sport, engage them in our sport, and entice them to come racing again."
Chamberlin said he believed racing "has many advantages over football" but "there is also plenty we can learn from football and other sports."
"Sports always needs to stay trendy," he went on. "To be vibrant and appeal to the young. Football never stands still. It's always modernising. The latest innovations with the likes of Friday night football and Manchester City launching a restaurant with a one-way glass into the tunnel.
"In cricket the advent of 20/20 and its ever changing and hugely popular finals day. Plans are afoot to make Test cricket more sexy. A few years ago cricket looked to be dying on its feet but with its innovations, it seems to be on the rise again and set to join horseracing as one of the few sports on terrestrial television.
"Racing needs to do similar and get on the front foot and be less reactionary."
Chamberlin also called trainers to not only allow apprentice riders to do media training but to encourage them to do so.
"So far, we have just scratched the surface with the players, the jockeys, on ITV," he said. "It is crucial in the modern age with so much information so readily available, that we tell viewers something they don’t know. To be different. To give them unique insight. I believe jockeys are in the best place to do this."
Chamberlin concluded: "These are exciting times – yet I'd love to see racing modernise and engage. It's a wonderful sport – for the many – not the few."
Peter Swann gave the traditional speech on behalf of the owners of this year's Al Basti Equiworld Gimcrack Stakes winner Sands Of Mali, the Cool Silk Partnership, in which he called on bookmakers and sports bodies to contribute financially to help those with gambling problems.
Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 18:53:07 GMT
Hexham, 13 Dec 17 Fixture Note Abandonded - Frozen Nothing to report View Stewards report Leicester, 13 Dec 17 Fixture Note Abandonded - Snow Nothing to report View Stewards report Lingfield Park, 13 Dec 17 Race 1 - 12:00pm THE PLAY FOR FREE AT sunbets.co.uk/vegas HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that TEE IT UP TOMMO (IRE), unplaced, hung right-handed throughout and the Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, GORING (GER), and MARATHA (IRE), placed third, lost their right hind shoe.
Race 3 - 1:00pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that TOWER POWER, unplaced, stopped quickly, Joey Haynes reported that LUV U WHATEVER, unplaced, was denied a clear run, Adam Kirby reported that MUSIKEL (IRE), unplaced, hung left-handed throughout and Robert Havlin reported that TOP BEAK (IRE), placed fourth, was denied a clear run.
Race 4 - 1:30pm THE BETWAY MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) MUNDERSFIELD, trained by David Simcock had entered the Parade Ring after the signal to mount had been given. After the trainer's representative was interviewed, Simcock was fined £140.
DIAMOND REFLECTION (IRE), trained by Alexandra Dunn was late in the Parade Ring, due to difficulties with fitting the tongue-tie.
On the run to the line PAST MASTER, placed second, quickly edged left causing William Carson, the rider of DELICATE KISS, placed fourth, to take a slight check, 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 PAST MASTER.
Following the race, Nicola Currie reported that SWISS VINNARE, placed third, hung right-handed.
Race 5 - 2:00pm THE PLAY STARBURST SLOT AT sunbets.co.uk/vegas HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) The Starter reported that GALLIPOLI (IRE), trained by Richard Fahey, broke out of the stalls and was withdrawn at 2.01pm. The trainer was informed that the gelding could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
The winner, SHYRON, appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Chelmsford City on 23 November 2017 where the gelding finished ninth of eleven, beaten by 16 lengths. George Margarson’s explanation that the gelding appreciated the return to Lingfield was noted.
An enquiry was held to consider interference on the run to the line when MAKE MUSIC, placed fourth, ridden by Jason Watson interfered with ALEJANDRO (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Luke Morris. Watson, who was accompanied by the representative of Andrew Balding, was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift right without sufficient correction causing Morris to be taken off his intended line.
Following the race, Fran Berry reported that MAKAARIM, placed fifth, was slowly away and never travelling down the hill.
Race 6 - 2:30pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Following the race, Robert Havlin reported that MUSIC MAJOR, placed second, was denied a clear run and Adam Kirby reported that CADEAUX BOXER, unplaced, ran too free.
Race 7 - 3:00pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Permission was given for RUNAIOCHT (IRE) to go early to post and to be mounted on the chute.
Race 8 - 3:30pm THE sunbets.co.uk ALL-WEATHER 'HANDS AND HEELS' APPRENTICE SERIES HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (Part of the Racing Excellence Initiative) The winner, STRINGYBARK CREEK, appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Windsor on 23 October 2017 where the gelding finished tenth of twelve, beaten by 6 lengths. Daniel Steele’s explanation that the gelding benefited from the drop in class and the first time use of cheek pieces was noted.
Following the race, Theodore Ladd reported that TARSEEKH, placed fourth, jumped left leaving the stalls and Jason Watson reported that LONDON GRAMMAR (IRE), unplaced, whipped round after exiting the stalls and was very slow into stride as a result. View Stewards report Kempton Park, 13 Dec 17 Race 1 - 3:40pm THE BETHANY & THEODORE FITCHIE NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) DUBAI ACCLAIM (IRE), trained by Richard Fahey, failed to come into the parade ring due to the colt having to be re-shod.
Following the race Martin Lane reported that KACHUMBA, placed third, hung left-handed off the bend.
Race 2 - 4:10pm THE BETTER ODDS WITH MATCHBOOK NURSERY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) The winner, CRISTAL PALLAS CAT (IRE) appeared to show improved form compared with its previous run at Chelmsford on 26 September 2017 where the gelding finished ninth of ten, beaten 12 ¼ lengths. Roger Ingram’s representative’s explanation that CRISTAL PALLAS CAT (IRE) had been gelded since its last run and appeared suited by the first time hood, was noted. The gelding was routine tested.
Following the race Luke Morris reported that DANCE EMPEROR (IRE), unplaced, hung left-handed throughout and Dougie Costello reported that BOOMERANG BETTY (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 3 - 4:40pm THE MATCHBOOK VIP NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV I) Approaching the final furlong DORELLA (GER), unplaced, hung quickly left-handed, despite the rider’s best efforts, taking TUM TUM, placed fourth, slightly off its intended line, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Robert Havlin reported that STYLEHUNTER, placed third, was denied a clear run on the run to the line and Rob Hornby reported that KEVLAR, unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 4 - 5:10pm THE MATCHBOOK VIP NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV II) Following the race Daniel Muscutt reported that TEASER, unplaced, reared as the stalls opened.
Race 5 - 5:40pm THE SMARTER BETS WITH MATCHBOOK MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) The Starter reported that SECRET RETURN (IRE), trained by Karen George, refused to enter stalls. The trainer was informed that the filly could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
Following the race Martin Dwyer reported that MR BROWNSTONE, unplaced, hung right-handed.
Race 6 - 6:10pm THE CLOSE BROTHERS BUSINESS FINANCE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) The winner, MR MAC, appeared to show improved form compared with its previous run at Chelmsford on 23 November 2017, where the gelding finished thirteenth of sixteen, beaten 23 lengths. Peter Hedger’s explanation that the gelding appeared suited by the first time tongue tie on this occasion, was noted. MR MAC was routine tested.
Following the race Callum Shepherd reported that VIOLET’S LADS (IRE) , unplaced, suffered interference in running inside the final furlong. View Stewards report Wolverhampton, 13 Dec 17 Race 1 - 1:45pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for OH SO DANDY (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race, Charlie Bennett reported that the winner, ROY’S LEGACY, hung right throughout.
Race 2 - 2:15pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Shortly after leaving the stalls, DALNESS EXPRESS, unplaced, shifted slightly right making momentary contact with ZENOVIA (IRE), unplaced, causing the filly to be checked, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Race 3 - 2:45pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Permission was given for SCOTCH MYST to go early to post.
Just inside the final furlong, FRED’S FILLY, unplaced, ducked sharply left onto AMBITIOUS BOY, unplaced, causing the gelding to be checked, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, George Downing reported that BEAU MISTRAL (IRE), unplaced, ran too free in the early stages and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing of the winner, VROOM (IRE), revealed the gelding had lost its left fore shoe.
Race 4 - 3:15pm THE FOLLOW SUN BETS ON TWITTER HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Permission was given for CAPTAIN SEDGWICK (IRE) to be mounted in the chute and to go early to post and for QUICK MONET (IRE) to go to post early.
An enquiry was held to consider interference approaching the final furlong involving D’WATERSIDE, placed fourth, ridden by B. A. Curtis, and JOYFUL DREAM (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Paul Mulrennan. Curtis was suspended for 2 days for careless riding, as he had allowed his mount to drift right without timely correction causing JOYFUL DREAM (IRE) to be checked.
Approaching the half furlong marker, JOYFUL DREAM (IRE), hung markedly left causing CAPTAIN SEDGWICK (IRE), unplaced, to be checked in its run, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
The winner, SOOQAAN, appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Wolverhampton on 7 November 2017, where the gelding finished last of thirteen, beaten 19½ lengths, having been reported by the rider to have hung badly right and was unsteerable. The representative of Antony Brittain explained that SOOQAAN appreciated the application of a cross noseband on this occasion. The gelding was routine tested.
Following the race, Matt Cosham reported that SATCHVILLE FLYER, placed third, ran too free. Paul Mulrennan reported that JOYFUL DREAM (IRE) hung badly left in the home straight and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the filly failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 3:50pm THE FOLLOW SUN BETS ON TWITTER HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) The winner, SECRET LIGHTNING (FR), appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Chelmsford on 17 November 2017, where the mare finished last of five, beaten 31¾ lengths. The representative of Michael Appleby explained that SECRET LIGHTNING (FR) benefitted from the change in headgear on this occasion. The mare was routine tested.
Following the race, Jason Hart reported that CHOOKIE VALENTINE, unplaced, was denied a clear run entering the home straight.
Race 6 - 4:25pm THE BET & WATCH AT sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Approaching the final half a furlong, AD VITAM (IRE), unplaced, edged left briefly hampering APPLEBERRY (IRE), unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Ben Robinson reported that FROZEN LAKE (USA), unplaced, reared leaving the stalls and missed the break as a result. George Downing reported that EVANESCENT (IRE), unplaced, ran too free and Paul Mulrennan reported that CHELWOOD GATE (IRE), unplaced, was denied a clear run in the home straight.
Race 7 - 4:55pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) ALKASHAAF (USA), trained by Daniel Loughnane, did not enter the Parade Ring due to difficulties fitting the tongue strap.
An enquiry was held to consider interference approaching the final furlong involving ROCK WARBLER (IRE), placed fourth, ridden by Paul Mulrennan, and BALTIC PRINCE (IRE), unplaced, ridden by George Downing. Mulrennan was cautioned for careless riding as he maneuvered left causing BALTIC PRINCE (IRE) to be taken off its intended line.
An enquiry was held to consider interference on the first bend involving MR CHRISTOPHER (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Paddy Pilley, BALTIC PRINCE (IRE) and BALLYMORE CASTLE (IRE), unplaced, ridden by Andrew Mullen. Pilley was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift left tightening BALTIC PRINCE (IRE) onto BALLYMORE CASTLE (IRE), which had to be checked.
The winner, ROUGE NUAGE (IRE), appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Chelmsford on 23 November 2017, where the gelding finished tenth of fourteen, beaten 16¾ lengths. Conrad Allen explained that ROUGE NUAGE (IRE) appreciated the return to the tapeta surface at Wolverhampton, having previously won multiple times at the track. The gelding was routine tested.
Following the race, Toby Eley reported that ALKASHAAF (USA), unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 8 - 5:25pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Following the race, Matt Cosham reported that DIBLOAM (USA), unplaced, hung right and the representative of Michael Appleby reported that DREAM SERENADE, placed third, had a breathing problem.
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 18:53:53 GMT
Conditions have improved significantly at Cheltenham ahead of their two-day International meeting.
The snow that covered the track on Monday has now gone, though rain has eased the ground.
The going is now soft, good to soft in places on the chase and hurdle tracks and good to soft, soft in places on the cross-country course.
Though temperatures may fall after racing on Friday, clerk of the course Simon Claisse does not anticipate any problems for Saturday's prestigious card, which features the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup and the Unibet International Hurdle.
"We have lost our snow, but we've had eight millimetres of rain since yesterday," said Claisse.
"The outlook is for a few showers over the next couple of days, no serious frost, although Friday night might be a bit colder.
"If it is going to be, we will cover after racing. It's a bit too early to be taking that decision.
"It is set to be dry from Friday onwards."
|
|
|
Post by Kimmy on Dec 13, 2017 18:54:39 GMT
light of several recent abandoned National Hunt meeting and additional fixture will be staged at Musselburgh on Monday, December 18.
Entries will close on Thursday at noon with declarations at the normal 24-hour stage on Sunday.
Stuart Middleton, Racing Operations Manager at the BHA, said: "A number of jump fixtures in the north have been lost to the weather in recent days and by staging this additional fixture at Musselburgh on Monday, we hope to provide opportunities for many of those horses which are ready to run.
"Our thanks go to Musselburgh and the HBLB for their assistance in staging this fixture."
|
|