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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:02:06 GMT
By Tony O'Hehir 6:00PM, DEC 15 2017 Brelade (12.05)
The Gordon Elliott-trained five-year-old will be bidding to get of the mark over fences at the fifth attempt in Saturday's opening 2m beginners' chase having been placed three times.
Disappointing at Punchestown on his most recent start, Jack Kennedy's mount had previously finished behind two exciting novices in Petit Mouchoir, at Punchestown, and Footpad at Navan.
Elliott said: "Brelade is in good form. His placed form is good and this looks a nice opportunity for him. Hopefully he might get his turn."
Fairymount Boy (2.20)
The eight-year-old has done well for trainer Michael P Hourigan this season, winning handicap hurdles at Gowran Park and Thurles and going close when beaten half a length at Limerick on his most recent start.
Testing ground and Saturday's two-mile trip will suit, and Hourigan said: "He keeps improving and ran a smart horse close at Limerick last time. Everything is good with him and we're quite hopeful.
"He should be there or thereabouts as he'll have the conditions he likes."
Dromore Lad (2.55)
The Dermot McLoughlin-trained five-year-old will be bidding for a third win this season in the 2m7f handicap.
McLoughlin said: "He's a grand little horse who seems to be improving. The ground will suit and although he's going up a couple of furlongs in trip that shouldn't be a problem.
"The one slight concern is whether the race might be coming a bit soon after his win at Limerick a couple of weeks ago."
Danny Hand, who claims 7lb, won on Dromore Lad over two and a half miles at today's track in October and is again on board.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:02:57 GMT
The final covers are likely to be removed around an hour before the first race on Saturday at Cheltenham, which on Friday evening was given an insurance blanket.
Following an afternoon when racing took place on ground described as soft, good to soft in places, and under a beautifully clear sky, clerk of the course Simon Claisse decided to take action against an imminent drop in temperature.
We're covering the entire course as a precaution," said Claisse. "By putting the covers down we have certainty. Without the covers there would be some doubt."
Claisse added: "We're expected to drop down to as low as -3C but it should remain dry. The outlook for Saturday is that it will be dry but cold at 3C to 4C. There will be no rail movements and I would expect the ground to ride similar to today."
Hereford's Saturday fixture hinges on an 8am inspection, while a noon inspection on Saturday will determine the prospects for Carlisle's Sunday card.
Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:03:55 GMT
6:15PM, DEC 15 2017 Hayley Turner received a three-month ban on Thursday after a panel heard she placed bets on horses while a professional licensed jockey.
The bets were placed on a Paddy Power account that Turner opened in her own name in December 2015 and were drawn to the attention of the BHA by the bookmaker this August.
Here are how the events unfolded . . .
2015
November 7 Turner retires, having announced intention to do so in September, but fails to relinquish licence
December 17 Opens betting account with Paddy Power, providing her own name and address
2016
March 17 Licence expires so betting no longer prohibited
June 23 Turner reapplies for licence and confirms she is familiar with any changes to the rules of racing
July6 Receives notification her licence has been renewed. Places bets later that day and on the next two days
July 15 Returns to the saddle with three mounts at Newmarket
August 6 Rides in Shergar Cup – her last of 14 rides in all for 2016
October 2 Resumes betting and places a further 36 bets before the end of the year, while she is not riding but is still licensed
2017
January and February Placed more bets, including a series of wagers on February 23 and 24, and after an application had been submitted for a licence renewal (made at the traditional time but in fact not required, as licensed until July)
March At a time when she was in correspondence with the BHA and cleared to ride again, she places a series of bets at the Cheltenham Festival time and again later in the month
April 6 Takes first rides since the Shergar Cup at invitation event in Greece
July 3 Rides at Windsor after another gap
July 4 Rides at invitation meeting in Sweden
July 8 Final four bets are placed through her account
August 8 Rides in Shergar Cup again, having had a handful of warm-up rides
August 27 BHA notifies Turner of investigation into potential breach of the rules after being informed about her betting account by Paddy Power
December 14 Turner suspended for three months for breach of Rule 53D
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:05:41 GMT
Turf Club chief executive Denis Egan says stakeholders will notice no perceptible difference when the new regulatory body for Irish racing – which will function under the auspices of a limited company – comes into being on New Year's Day.
In the wake of legislative changes made in the Horse Racing Ireland Act 2016, the possibility was created for the Turf Club to protect its private members from personal liability.
That prospect will now become a reality via a company titled the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, with a website address of ihrb.ie.
While acknowledging it is an evolution that will witness the Turf Club brand diminish, Egan insists the new format will replicate the existing operations as much as it is possible.
'Everything will continue as it is'
"It's a big change," Egan said the transition, "but after 227 years of regulating the sport through a private club it's certainly a much more appropriate structure for the regulation of the sport.
"I don't think people are going to notice very many changes at all, in so far as everything will continue as is, but rather than the Turf Club carrying out the regulatory functions they will be carried out by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board."
The board will comprise six directors, three each from the Turf Club and the Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Committee, which is currently responsible for the regulation of jumps racing.
Peter Allen, senior steward of the INHSC, will be the first chairman of the new board, and he will be joined by the INHSC deputy senior steward Martin O'Donnell and Dr Colm O'Flaherty.
The Turf Club directors will be Harry McCalmont (vice-chairman), Caroline Corballis and John Power.
Incoming chairman Allen said of the pending changes: "Racing, both as a sport and an industry, faces many challenges today. Irish racing has always had an excellent reputation and it is vital that continues to be the case. The new company structure will ensure we continue to invest in the integrity services that underpin that reputation.”
Desire to indemnify
Of the committees that convene for appeals and referrals, Egan added: "The current committee structure will remain in place, so the appeals body, referrals committees and compliance and regulation committee will all remain in place, but they will be run through the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board."
Having had to contest a number of cases in both the High Court and the Supreme Court in recent times, the desire to indemnify Turf Club members was part of the motivation to create the new company.
"It was to a point," Egan noted, "because you can obviously insure against risk, which we do anyway. It was just felt that a more appropriate structure for the regulation of horseracing in the current environment is a limited company rather than a private club."
The Turf Club will continue to administer the various jockeys' charities and stable staff pension schemes and will retain its one-third share in the Curragh racecourse, while the INHSC will continue its role in the governance of point-to-point racing.
Welcoming the IHRB, Meta Osborne, who will be replaced by McCalmont as senior steward of the Turf Club when her two-year term expires on December 31, paid tribute to the Turf Club's role in protecting the good name of Irish racing.
"The Turf Club has served Irish racing well for more than 200 years," she said. "I am confident that the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board will raise these standards to an even higher level."
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:06:19 GMT
Sleepy Head 9.00 Dundalk
Nine starts, three wins and a 15lb rise in the ratings since the summer. The question is: how much further can Sleepy Head go?
The four-year-old’s three wins have come in his last four starts and he is up just 2lb for his success over course-and-distance last month.
With Pat Smullen in the saddle again and a good draw, Sleepy Head looks a strong contender in the final race of the evening.
9/2 Sleepy Head 9:00 Dundalk (AW)
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 15, 2017 19:08:36 GMT
SATURDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:55 CHELTENHAM Caspian Caviar Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV4 2:10 DONCASTER bet365 December Novices' Chase (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m ITV4 2:30 CHELTENHAM Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (Registered As The Bristol Novices' Hurdle) (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m ITV4 2:45 DONCASTER bet365 Summit Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) Cl1 (3yo) 2m½f ITV4 3:05 CHELTENHAM Unibet International Hurdle (Grade 2) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m1f ITV4 3:20 DONCASTER bet365 Handicap Chase Cl2 (4yo+ 0-150) 3m ITV4 3:40 CHELTENHAM OLBG Mares' Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (4yo+) 2m4½f ITV4
SCOOP 6 1:20 CHELTENHAM Junior Jumpers Handicap Chase Cl2 (4yo+) 2m½f RUK 1:40 DONCASTER bet365 Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (3yo+) 2m½f ATR 1:55 CHELTENHAM Caspian Caviar Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV4 3:15 HEREFORD Central Roofing South Wales Ltd Handicap Hurdle Cl4 (3yo+ 0-110) 2m ATR 3:20 DONCASTER bet365 Handicap Chase Cl2 (4yo+ 0-150) 3m ITV4 3:40 CHELTENHAM OLBG Mares' Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (4yo+) 2m4½f ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:15:42 GMT
Saturday: going, weather & non-runners Cheltenham GOING: SOFT (Good to soft in places; GoingStick 6.1) (Rail movements: R1 & 6 +63y, R2 & 4 +77y, R3 +75y, R5 +95y, R7 +94y) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:55 Long House Hall (5) Doncaster GOING: GOOD (Good to soft in places; Chs 6.6, Hdl 7.0) (Rail movements: R1, 2, 4 & 6 +24y, R3, 5 & 7 +3y) INSPECTION 9AM WEATHER: Mostly sunny Fairyhouse GOING: HEAVY WEATHER: Partly cloudy Hereford GOING: SOFT (Rail movement; Races 2,5,6 & 7 +75yds) WEATHER: Partly cloudy Newcastle (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Mostly sunny STALLS: 2m - Inside; 1m4f - Far side; Remainder - Centre NON RUNNERS: 1:15 Song Of Love (5) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 6:15 Krazy Paving (3) 6:45 Wedgewood Estates (9) 7:45 Somnambulist (9)
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:16:25 GMT
Newmarket: Anthony Burke
King Kevin (3.00 Newcastle, nap)
Did well to overcome a slow start to get up and win at Wolverhampton last time. The assessor has not over reacted to that win and the subsequent rise in weights still allows him to make a bold bid to land the hat trick here.
Others to Follow Newcastle 1.15 Master Singer, 1.50 Warm Oasis, 2.25 Western Way, 3.35 Without Parole, 4.05 Swift Approval. Wolverhampton 5.45 Argon, 6.45 Mossy's Lodge, 7.15 Coronation Day, 8.15 Influent.
9/4 King Kevin 3:00 Newcastle (AW) Lambourn: James Burn
Countister (12.30 Doncaster, nap)
Well regarded by champion trainer Nicky Henderson, she ran with credit on her British debut at Newbury last month and looks a huge player if stepping forward from that.
Others to follow Cheltenham 12.10 Apple's Shakira, 3.05 My Tent Or Yours. Doncaster 1.40 Percy Street, 2.10 Keeper Hill, 2.45 We Have A Dream, 3.20 Kilcrea Vale. Hereford 2.40 Rayvin Black. Newcastle 1.15 Mountain Bell, 1.50 Star Story, 4.05 Reckless Endeavour. Wolverhampton 7.15 Seeking Magic, 8.15 Dutch Uncle, 9.15 Perfect Lady.
4/6 Countister 12:30 Doncaster West Country: Tim Mitchell
Movewiththetimes (12.45 Cheltenham, nap)
Developed into a useful hurdler last season and he is beginning to look every bit as good over fences after two solid efforts at this venue. Reckoned to have been found an inviting opportunity to open his account.
Others to follow Cheltenham 1.55 Starchitect, 2.30 Kilbricken Storm, 3.05 Old Guard, 3.40 Lamanver Odyssey. Doncaster 1.40 Flying Tiger, 2.10 Braqueur d'Or, 2.45 Act Of Valour. Hereford 12.20 Black Narcissus, 12.55 Vision Des Flos, 2.05 Ozzie The Oscar.
10/11 Movewiththetimes 12:45 Cheltenham North: Colin Russell
Helmsley Lad (12.00 Doncaster, nap)
Bumper winner who has been below par on both starts this season. Has dropped down to a decent mark and with the drop back in trip expected to suit, is fancied to bounce back.
Others to follow Cheltenham 1.55 Guitar Pete. Doncaster 12.30 Tayzar, 1.05 Cooking Fat, 1.40 Irish Roe, 2.10 Ballycrystal, 3.20 What Happens Now. Newcastle 12.40 Senatus, 1.15 Watersmeet, 1.50 Cuckoo's Calling, 2.25 Falcon's Fire, 3.00 Acker Bilk, 3.35 Windsor Cross, 4.05 Qaffaal, 4.35 Novabridge. Wolverhampton 5.45 Straffan, 6.15 Jessie Allan, 6.45 Jorvik Prince, 7.15 Fast Track, 7.45 Never A Word, 8.15 Swift Emperor, 8.45 Twin Appeal.
12/1 Helmsley Lad 12:00 Doncaster Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Rons Dream (3.40 Cheltenham, nap)
Successful in a heavy-ground Listed race at Warwick last season, she looks fairly handicapped and her jockey's 5lb claim is a real plus.
16/1 Rons Dream 3:40 Cheltenham Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Starchitect (1.55 Cheltenham)
Found just one too good here a month ago but David Pipe's six-year-old can gain deserved compensation.
6/1 Starchitect 1:55 Cheltenham Longshot: Ed Quigley
Rons Dream (3.40 Cheltenham)
Has some good form at Cheltenham, will enjoy soft conditions, and can't be ruled out back in handicap company.
16/1 Rons Dream 3:40 Cheltenham Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Brelade (12.05 Fairyhouse)
Despite a disappointing effort last time, the Gordon Elliott-trained five-year-old has finished second to two exciting novices, Footpad and Petit Mouchoir, and with nothing of that calibre against him today he can get off the mark over fences in today’s opener.
5/4 Brelade 12:05 Fairyhouse 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 Dec 16, 2017 8:17:09 GMT
Nicky Henderson is in good form and has a particularly good record with his horses at Doncaster. He boasts a 40 per cent strike-rate at the venue and the pick of his four runners is Countister (12.30), who is highly regarded and can win here before going on to better things.
When John Gosden sends two-year-old debutants to Newcastle it’s worth taking note. He has an impressive 44 per cent strike-rate with such horses at the course. Without Parole (3.35) is his representative and the son of Frankel is closely related to impressive all-weather and dirt performer Tamarkuz.
Colin Tizzard sends just Kilbricken Storm (2.30) to Cheltenham today. He won at Wincanton last time and the trainer has booked Harry Cobden for the ride. The pair have an eye-catching 33 per cent strike-rate when teaming up and the gelding should enjoy the step up in trip.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:17:30 GMT
King's Odyssey 1.55 Cheltenham
15/2 King's Odyssey 1:55 Cheltenham Still travelling strongly when he fell at the 12th in this race last year, King’s Odyssey now competes off a 7lb lower mark and holds strong claims.
A stone better horse when the mud is flying, he looks to have been carefully laid out for this valuable prize by the in-form Evan Williams, and very much caught the eye over an inadequate 2m at Carlisle last time.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:18:27 GMT
CHELTENHAM
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.10 Apple's Shakira
12.45 Movewiththetimes
1.20 Grey Gold
1.55 King's Odyssey
2.30 Count Meribel
3.05 The New One
3.40 Graceful Legend
GIMCRACK
12.10 Apple's Shakira
12.45 Movewiththetimes
1.20 Gino Trail
1.55 King's Odyssey (nb)
2.30 Equus Secretus
3.05 Melon (nap)
3.40 Lamanver Odyssey
...........................................................................................................................................
DONCASTER
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.00 Eskendash
12.30 Countister
1.05 Markov
1.40 Mohaayed
2.10 Braqueur D'or
2.45 Act Of Valour
3.20 Solstice Son
GIMCRACK
12.00 One For Billy
12.30 Clondaw Castle
1.05 Poker School
1.40 Irish Roe
2.10 Rocklander
2.45 We Have A Dream
3.20 Sego Success
...........................................................................................................................................
HEREFORD
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.00 Eskendash
12.30 Countister
1.05 Markov
1.40 Mohaayed
2.10 Braqueur D'or
2.45 Act Of Valour
3.20 Solstice Son
GIMCRACK
12.00 One For Billy
12.30 Clondaw Castle
1.05 Poker School
1.40 Irish Roe
2.10 Rocklander
2.45 We Have A Dream
3.20 Sego Success
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:18:53 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 8:19:13 GMT
WOLVERHAMPTON
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.45 Street Sensation
6.15 Jessie Allan
6.45 Pulsating
7.15 Fast Track
7.45 Belabour
8.15 Andok
8.45 Twin Appeal (nap)
9.15 Kingofmerrows
GIMCRACK
5.45 Street Sensation
6.15 Hisar
6.45 Pulsating
7.15 Coronation Day
7.45 Raashdy
8.15 Andok
8.45 Sword Exceed
9.15 Peace Terms
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Post by dennisg on Dec 16, 2017 9:24:01 GMT
in today's sporting life............... Cheltenham specialist Foxtail Hill can provide local handler Nigel Twiston-Davies with another big Saturday success, according to Value Bet expert Ben Linfoot. Value Bet: December 16 Nigel Twiston-Davies has been the king of Saturday afternoons all season and he added to his big-race haul last weekend when Blaklion landed a ridiculous Becher Chase gamble with ease. That came on the back of Bristol De Mai’s Betfair Chase demolition, while before that he won the BetVictor Gold Cup with Splash Of Ginge who was ensuring a fourth win in the race for the Naunton handler. In contrast, Twiston-Davies has won the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup only once, with Double Ross in 2013, but, for the same owners, the Options O Syndicate, he could well double his tally in the race on Saturday with FOXTAIL HILL at 14/1 (General 1,2,3 1/5 odds – check your each-way terms you might get ¼ and/or extra places). While Splash Of Ginge was sent off 25/1 before landing the BetVictor, stablemate Foxtail Hill was by far the better-fancied of the pair as his starting price of 9/1 suggests. That came on the back of a terrific win over two miles at the October meeting at the track, where he jumped like a buck and showed real guts to hold on from Le Prezien in a thrilling finish. ITV Racing ✔ @itvracing All heart! Foxtail Hill produces breathtaking front running display - Watch all the action LIVE on @itv4 2:21 PM - Oct 28, 2017 3 3 Replies 12 12 Retweets 38 38 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Up 7lb for that, he couldn’t follow up in the BetVictor, but it would be dangerous to dismiss his chance on Saturday on the grounds that the handicapper might’ve caught up with him. This is where I better insert a disclaimer – he may well have done. But I’m not happy with coming to that conclusion purely on the evidence of the BetVictor and circumstances could well see Foxtail Hill regain his Cheltenham groove in the Caspian Caviar. Last time, in the BetVictor, Foxtail Hill adopted his usual front-running position, but was taken out of his comfort zone when Kylemore Lough took him on for the lead down the back straight. A mistake at the water jump saw Kylemore Lough lose some ground but Foxtail Hill had already been ruffled and the writing was on the wall three out when Splash Of Ginge, Starchitect and Le Prezien took over to do battle up the hill. Fully aware his chance had gone, Jamie Bargary looked after him in the closing stages and I wouldn’t take his 25-length defeat literally at all. The hope is that manoeuvre will have helped him recover sufficiently to have a real go at claiming Saturday’s prize. With no Kylemore Lough in the field this time, there looks to be a distinct lack of pace pressure in opposition and an easy lead, with Bargary able to get the breathers into him that he couldn’t last time, looks a distinct possibility. Starchitect and Splash Of Ginge might not be far away again, but they’re likely to be prominent just off the pace and only loomed up alongside Foxtail Hill last time after he’d already been roughed up by Harry Fry’s horse. We know horses can be hard to peg back at Cheltenham if they get loose on the lead and his record around Prestbury Park is excellent, with two wins and a second to his name from five starts over fences. On the New Course his record is a first and a second from two starts, his victory coming in the open handicap on trials day when he belied his novice status with an exhibition round of jumping and galloping in soft ground. That was off a stone lower mark, admittedly, and we come around to the issue of handicapping once again. But, at 14/1, we have a horse that loves the track, has plenty of guts and a will to win and may well be suited by the way it all pans out. It counts for plenty and at the prices he’s the one I want on side. Dangers are everywhere, despite this being the smallest field for the race since Fondmort led home eight rivals back in 2002. The class horse in the race is Clan Des Obeaux, who looked in great nick at Haydock last time. A 7lb rise might not be enough to stop him following up, as he looks a Grade One runner in the making, but it does ensure he has to carry top weight against some capable horses here. Clan Des Obeaux impressed at Haydock Clan Des Obeaux impressed at Haydock last time It's just enough to put me off as he’s been well backed already, as has King’s Odyssey who was going well enough in this race last year when falling at the 12th fence. He was 7lb higher that day and is back down to a mark just 1lb higher than when he won the Timeform Novices’ Handicap Chase on trials day back in 2016. He’s only had five starts since then and caught the eye over an inadequate two miles on his reappearance at Carlisle. That looks a canny bit of training from Evan Williams as it should've put him spot on for this while the handicapper dropped him 2lb as well. If I was going to have a saver it would be on him, but I just felt his price had contracted enough already and, in an ideal world, he'd probably want it even softer. Later on the Cheltenham card I think it could be worth taking a chance on CH’TIBELLO in the Unibet International Hurdle (3.05) at 8/1 (general). The New One is going for his fourth win in this and there’s another previous winner in Old Guard too, but Ch’Tibello gets weight from that pair and Willie Mullins’ Melon, who carries a 6lb penalty following his reappearance win at Down Royal. Favoured by the weights, conditions are very much up Ch’Tibello’s street as he goes well in testing ground, as best advertised by his win in the Betfair Price Rush Hurdle at Haydock in the November of 2016, when he beat Saturday rivals My Tent Or Yours and Old Guard. Beaten by Yanworth in the Christmas Hurdle and Kingwell Hurdle after that, he hasn’t been seen since Wincanton but he did have Sceau Royal in behind at that track, a horse that is currently blooming over fences. Ruled out of the Champion Hurdle due to small problem with a foot, Ch’Tibello has been given time to recover but the good thing is he is a horse that has gone well fresh, as he won the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr in the April of 2016 after five months off the track, beating Cloudy Dream fairly comfortably giving him a couple of pounds. His best form was on his last two runs, though, performances that have helped him climb to a rating of 157. If he runs to that sort of mark on these terms he’ll have a big chance and confidence in the bet is enhanced considering Dan Skelton’s good recent form. Posted at 1700 GMT on 15/12/17. Ben Linfoot's Value Bet aim: The Value Bet is designed to generate long-term profit by searching for overpriced horses in the feature weekend races and at the big Festivals in the UK. Running total: +387.89pts to advised stakes/prices (from inception of Value Bet column in January 2010 to current).
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Post by dennisg on Dec 16, 2017 9:25:31 GMT
Racing's top gossip column returns with the best weekend bets - and is Nicky Henderson's best juvenile hurdler actually still waiting in the wings? Strong fancies: 7 Ballyaltonp28 1011-0OR: 143C 8/1 Form: 2F15/64T: Ian WilliamsJ: T J O'Brien Last run Live betting powered by 3 Equus Secretus25 510-12OR: 139D 2/1 Form: 1-11T: B PaulingJ: David Bass Last run Live betting powered by 4 Kilcrea Vale22 711-1OR: 139BFD 9/2 Form: 2158-23T: N J HendersonJ: Nico de Boinville Last run Live betting powered by Ballyalton can land a deserved big race win in the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham on Saturday. Ian Williams is one of the most versatile trainers around at the moment, and will have his charge well primed for this lucrative prize after two outings so far this season. By far the most significant of the pair came in the BetVictor Gold Cup here last month, when he finished an excellent fourth to Splash Of Ginge, despite losing a front shoe. That performance was his first appearance over fences since a cracking effort behind Native River in a Grade One at Aintree in April 2016 and a subsequent long lay-off through injury. Although a ten-year-old now, he has very few miles on the clock and there seems no reason why he cannot progress again from that outing. He has pleased since and he gives the impression he will be well suited suited by the slightly more demanding layout of the New Course. Equus Secretus can see off the fancied Global Stage and win the Grade Two Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle. Ben Pauling has made a name for himself with young staying hurdlers during his short career and this unbeaten five-year-old looks another very nice prospect. Both his wins have come on relatively tight tracks at Huntingdon and Southwell but he looks the type to appreciate this more galloping course. Tom Symonds is starting to fire in a winner or two and should go close with River Arrow in the OLBG Mares Only Handicap Hurdle. She enjoyed a lucrative, if light season, over timber last term and ended the campaign with a win and a very good third to Snow Leopardess in the competitive mares limited handicap at Newbury in March. She ran a sound race to finish a close fifth in a similar event to this at Ascot three weeks ago and remains on a very workable mark. Three-year-old hurdles rely on quality rather than quantity these days, a fact underlined by both the Grade Two contests at Cheltenham and Doncaster this wekeend having to be reopened after the initial five-day entry. Nicky Henderson, one of the most successful trainers of the younger generation around, felt a couple of months ago he had a shortage of babies this time around. Yet now he holds two of the best we've seen so far - on this side of the Irish Sea at least - in Apple's Shakira and We Have A Dream. Both are in action on Saturday with the former heading to Cheltenham to try and follow up her course win at last month's meeting, while easy Warwick winner We Have A Dream tries his luck in the bet365 Summit Juvenile Hurdle at Doncaster. Both are fancied to win and on Wednesday, the master of Seven Barrows may introduce another interesting recruit to further strengthen his JCB Triumph Hurlde hand - should it be needed! Style De Garde is something of a handsome brute and his asking price at the sales was only just south of 200,000 euros. Highclere Thoroughbreds stumped that up for the son of Kapgarde and will no doubt be hoping he can add to an impressive win so far, at the somewhat unfamiliar provincial outpost of Strasbourg. He is entered in the opener at Newbury. Pauling should also be on the mark with Markov in the bet365.com Handicap Chase at Doncaster. Connections often waste little time moving young chasers from novices to fully fledged handicaps these days and the ever enterprising trainer is adopting the strategy with this recent Fontwell winner to take advantage of a lowly rating. He is sure to be sharper for his trip to Sussex and looks the one to beat. Kilcrea Vale has always looked capable of winning a decent prize and he will get few better opportunities than the bet365 Handicap Chase. Although well beaten on his comeback at Ascot, a good number of the Seven Barrows team were badly in need of their comeback efforts at that stage of the season - Josses Hill pulled up at the same meeting, but improved a good deal to chase Top Notch home at Taunton on Thursday. "Kilcrea" should take a significant move forward here, provided the ground is not too testing. Emma Lavelle's Paisley Park showed plenty of promise in a good class bumper at Warwick on his only run last season and he should go well at a decent price on his debut over timber in the Glosford Secure Storage Novices Hurdle at Hereford. Shanty Town can help maintain a healthy strike rate for Gavin Sheehan with victory in the Suzanne Gilbert 50th Birthday Handicap Chase at Southwell on Sunday. There was plenty of stable confidence behind David Dennis's eight year old on his second start over fences at Warwick last month and it was only by a narrow margin he missed out under a fine ride by today's partner. The form of the race looks solid and Shanty Town should improve sufficiently to overcome a two pound rise in his handicap mark. Fergal O'Brien has pretty much dominated the bumper scene during the autumn exchanges and he still has one or two smart youngsters to unleash. One of their number, A Book Of Intrigue has an entry in the finale at Ffos Las on Monday. By Alflora out of a smart pointer, he has been working very nicely and is definitely one to note if taking up the engagement.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 16, 2017 9:27:05 GMT
Oli Bell had an 8/1 winner in last week's Saturday Yankee - this time his selections run at Cheltenham and Doncaster. 1430 Cheltenham - COUNT MERIBEL I’m going with Count Meribel for my first selection of the day. Nigel Twiston-Davies’s horses are flying at the moment and I thought this one won really well at Ascot last time out, when making all. The five-year-old looked a very progressive type there and has won on soft ground as well, so he is versatile and should have no issues with the conditions. The horse he beat at Carlisle two runs ago – Kildisart – has since franked the form since by winning at Ascot, where Count Meribel was particularly impressive. He stays well and could be very hard to pass in what is a competitive race. 1 Count Meribel21 511-1OR: 138 2/1 Form: 222-111T: N A Twiston-DaviesJ: M D Grant Last run Live betting powered by 1445 Doncaster - ACT OF VALOUR Act Of Valour looks a good bet to claim victory in this Grade Two heat. Sam Twiston-Davies was on The Opening Show recently and put this horse in his £20 challenge ahead of his first career victory over hurdles at Newcastle. Sam was particularly bullish about him that day and said he works very well at home. He won in the style of a very good horse there and will again take a lot of beating. 1 Act Of Valour14 311-1OR: - 11/8 Form: 1T: P F NichollsJ: A P Heskin Last run Live betting powered by 1505 Cheltenham - MELON The New One is going for his fourth victory in this race and is likely to challenge towards the head the market but I’m tipping Melon. Willie Mullins’ Irish raider is the new kid on the block compared to the Twiston-Davies stable stalwart and fellow big name ten-year-old My Tent Or Yours. For all that Nicky Henderson’s classy former Christmas Hurdle winner retains his undoubted talent, Melon may be able to surprise him in terms of legs. John Constable is certainly worth keeping an eye on, especially having won twice over hurdles in the summer and entering the race fresh from an unsuccessful spin on the Flat in October. However, if the ground is testing, that will be a big negative against him. 1 Melon43 511-6OR: 155 15/8 Form: 122-1T: W P MullinsJ: D J Mullins Last run Live betting powered by 1520 Doncaster - SEGO SUCCESS I really like the look of Sego Success in this one. He ran well at Warwick on his most recent start in October, finishing a couple of lengths behind Beggars Cross. Alan King’s nine-year-old enters the race, which he won two years ago, in good form and Wayne Hutchinson is in the saddle again. He handles any ground conditions and looks well-treated. 5 Sego Successp72 910-12OR: 136CD 9/2 Form: 34P5F-2T: A KingJ: Wayne Hutchinson
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Post by dennisg on Dec 16, 2017 9:28:33 GMT
King's Odyssey will relish the step up in trip in Cheltenham's Caspian Caviar Gold Cup on Saturday - Ashley Iveson previews the action. King's Odyssey looks the value call in a typically wide-open renewal of the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham. A strong field of 11 runners will go to post for the two-mile-five-furlong contest and few can be discounted with any certainty. Paul Nicholls, who claimed a record fourth victory in the race with Frodon 12 months ago, fires a three-pronged assault, with Clan Des Obeaux and Le Prezien both at the forefront of the betting. However, it will take a huge performance from Clan Des Obeaux to strike gold under top weight in soft ground, while Le Prezien is talented but his jumping fails to convince. The admirable Splash Of Ginge bids to follow up last month's victory in the BetVictor Gold Cup, but no horse has done the double since Exotic Dancer 11 years ago and, unlike a few of his main rivals, King's Odyssey appears to have been trained specifically for this race. The Evan Williams-trained eight-year-old shaped with abundant promise when third over an inadequate trip on his seasonal reappearance at Carlisle and that should leave him cherry-ripe for his big race assignment. His mark has dropped to 140, which is only 1lb higher than when scoring handsomely over this course and distance on soft terrain back in January of last year. While that was a while ago, he has been lightly raced since, is still only an eight-year-old and he has less than 11st on his back, so he ticks plenty of boxes. Irish challenger Melon can see off the older brigade to land the Unibet International Hurdle. Local favourite The New One bids for his fourth victory in the race for Nigel Twiston-Davies, but is not the force he was in his pomp. Having finished runner-up here 12 months ago and second in three renewals of the Champion Hurdle, My Tent Or Yours would definitely not be winning out of turn, but does find victories hard to come by and conditions will not be ideal. The Willie Mullins-trained Melon has a bit to find with his two main rivals on the book, but then he is considerably younger and open to significant improvement having run just four times over hurdles. He was far from disgraced in finishing second in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle here in March and while his comeback victory at Down Royal was more solid than spectacular, he is likely to strip much fitter for the outing. Melon will need to beating My Tent Or Yours and The New One if he is to be considered a serious contender for Champion Hurdle glory. Rocklander was impressive on his debut over fences for Tom George and merits the step up in class in the bet365 December Novices' Chase at Doncaster. The other Grade Two on a quality Town Moor card is the Summit Juvenile Hurdle and having made a big impression on his British introduction at Warwick, Nicky Henderson's We Have A Dream gets the nod. The main attraction on the all-weather at Newcastle is the Betway Conditions Stakes - a fast-track qualifier for the marathon at Lingfield on Good Friday. The top two in terms of ratings in an eight-strong field are Watersmeet and Mountain Bell and preference is for the latter. Ralph Beckett's filly won a Listed prize and was only narrowly denied in a Group Three on the grass last year. She heads into this winter fresh after just two runs so far in 2017, performing with credit in the Simon Stakes at Newbury and most recently finishing second on her all-weather debut in the Wild Flower at Kempton. She steps up to two miles for the first time at Gosforth Park and if her stamina does last out, she could be a potent force in similar races in the coming weeks and months. Sporting Life suggestions CHELTENHAM: 12.10 Apple's Shakira, 12.45 Movewiththetimes, 1.20 Gino Trail, 1.55 King's Odyssey, 2.30 Equus Secretus, 3.05 MELON (NAP), 3.40 Lamanver Odyssey. DONCASTER: 12.00 One For Billy, 12.30 Clondaw Castle, 1.05 Poker School, 1.40 Irish Roe, 2.10 Rocklander, 2.45 We Have A Dream, 3.20 Sego Success. FAIRYHOUSE: 12.05 Brelade, 12.35 Monbeg Notorious, 1.10 Stormy Ireland, 1.45 Mount Hanover, 2.20 Dylrow, 2.55 Off The Charts, 3.30 Colreevy. HEREFORD: 12.20 Paddy The Oscar, 12.55 Vision Des Flos, 1.30 Shanty Town, 2.05 Ozzie The Oscar, 2.40 Court Minstrel, 3.15 Quiz Master, 3.45 Topofthecotswolds. NEWCASTLE: 12.40 British Art, 1.15 Mountain Bell, 1.50 Warm Oasis, 2.25 Bigbadboy, 3.00 King Kevin, 3.35 Windsor Cross, 4.05 Rene Mathis, 4.35 Windforpower. WOLVERHAMPTON: 5.45 Street Sensation, 6.15 Hisar, 6.45 Pulsating, 7.15 Coronation Day, 7.45 Raashdy, 8.15 Andok, 8.45 Sword Exceed, 9.15 Peace Terms.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 16:42:46 GMT
Cheltenham, 16 Dec 17 Fixture Note Race 4: Following the injury sustained by STARCHITECT (IRE), approaching the second last fence, the Stewards ordered the track to be examined by the Senior British Horseracing Authority Inspector of Courses. Following his examination the Stewards were satisfied there was no problem with the racing surface and therefore concluded that it had had no bearing upon the injury to STARCHITECT (IRE). Race 2 - 12:45pm THE RYMAN NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Permission was given for KALONDRA to be mounted in the chute and go early to post.
The Stewards noted that JAMESON, placed fourth, ridden by Davy Russell, attempted to duck out through the tape closing off the round circuit on the run in.
Race 3 - 1:20pm THE JUNIOR JUMPERS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Permission was given for GINO TRAIL (IRE) to be mounted in the chute and go early to post.
Race 4 - 1:55pm THE CASPIAN CAVIAR GOLD CUP HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) Permission was given for DEAUVILLE DANCER (IRE) to be mounted in the chute. FOXTAIL HILL (IRE) wore earplugs.
Race 5 - 2:30pm THE ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (REGISTERED AS THE BRISTOL NOVICES' HURDLE RACE) (Grade 2) (Grade 2) Following the race David Bass reported that EQUUS SECRETUS (IRE), placed third, ran too freely.
Race 6 - 3:05pm THE UNIBET INTERNATIONAL HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) MELON wore earplugs.
An enquiry was held to consider interference after jumping the second last flight, when THE NEW ONE (IRE), placed second, ridden by Sam Twiston-Davies, drifted left-handed interfering with OLD GUARD, placed fifth, ridden by Harry Cobden, and MELON, placed third, ridden by David Mullins. Twiston-Davies was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he had allowed his horse to drift left when not sufficiently clear.
A further enquiry was held to consider interference entering the home straight where the winner MY TENT OR YOURS (IRE), interfered with OLD GUARD and CH’TIBELLO (FR), placed fifth, ridden by Harry Skelton. The interference was found to be accidental as Geraghty had no room on his right hand side to move into to avoid interference as he had THE NEW ONE (IRE) on his outside.
Race 7 - 3:40pm THE OLBG MARES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) Permission was given for RONS DREAM to wear a hood in the parade ring only.
Following the race Jamie Bargary reported that DEAUVILLE CRYSTAL (FR), which was pulled up, was never travelling. View Stewards report Doncaster, 16 Dec 17 Fixture Note An inspection was held due to a concern that the worn areas of the course had been affected by the overnight frost. Riders: Brian Hughes, Henry Brooke and Craig Nichol; Trainers: Pam Sly, Mark Walford and the representative of Paul Nicholls; The Clerk of the Course and a representative of the Managing Executive, and the Veterinary Officer were interviewed. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that racing could continue. Race 1 - 12:00pm THE bet365.com HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for CASTAFIORE (USA) to go early to post.
Just before the winning line, GRAN MAESTRO (USA), placed second, lugged quickly left slightly bumping the winner, CASTAFIORE (USA), but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Paul O’Brien, the rider of the winner, CASTAFIORE (USA), was suspended for 4 days for using his whip above the permitted level from after the third last hurdle.
Kielan Woods, the rider of ESKENDASH (USA), was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from after the final hurdle.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that BROTHERLY COMPANY (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 4 - 1:40pm THE bet365 HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) FLYING TIGER (IRE) wore ear plugs which were removed at the start.
Jumping the second last hurdle, ALWAYS RESOLUTE, placed sixth, jumped left into the path of MINELLAFORLEISURE (IRE), unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved and that it had not improved the placing of ALWAYS RESOLUTE.
Race 6 - 2:45pm THE bet365 SUMMIT JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) Following the race, A. P. Heskin reported that ACT OF VALOUR, placed sixth, ran flat and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7 - 3:20pm THE bet365 HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) The winner, MUSTMEETALADY (IRE), appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous runs this season. The representative of Jonjo O’Neill explained that the gelding benefitted from a return to a galloping track. MUSTMEETALADY (IRE) was routine tested.
Following the race, Bridget Andrews reported that VIRGILIO (FR), which was pulled up, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that KILCREA VALE (IRE), placed sixth, lost its left fore shoe and the winner, MUSTMEETALADY (IRE), lost its right fore shoe. View Stewards report Hereford, 16 Dec 17 Fixture Note Race 2 - Following concerns raised by the riders at the start regarding the low sun obscuring their vision at the fourth flight, the Stewards consulted with the Clerk of the Course and ordered that this obstacle should be by-passed for this race. Race 1 - 12:20pm THE ROSS LABELS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race, Conor Ring reported that PADDY THE OSCAR (IRE), placed fifth, jumped left-handed throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The representative of Alexandra Dunn reported that BLACK NARCISSUS (IRE), which was pulled up, needs plenty of give in the ground and was unsuited by the going which in her opinion was riding faster than the official description of Soft. The Veterinary Officer reported that SONOFTHEKING (IRE), placed second, lost its right fore shoe and HANDSOME MAN, placed third, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 3 - 1:30pm THE JACKSON PROPERTY ESTATE AGENTS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for SPOCK (FR) to go early to post.
Following the race, Charlie Deutsch reported that ACHILLE (FR), which started favourite and finished fifth, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. James Best reported that FEAR GLIC (IRE), placed third, was hampered by the fall of FARM THE ROCK (IRE).
Race 6 - 3:15pm THE CENTRAL ROOFING SOUTH WALES LTD HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race, Trevor Whelan reported that SOIESAUVAGE (FR), unplaced, was never travelling.
Race 7 - 3:45pm THE CHASE GB "JUNIOR" STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) TOPOFTHECOTSWOLDS (IRE) wore earplugs throughout the race. View Stewards report Newcastle, 16 Dec 17 Race 2 - 1:15pm THE BETWAY CONDITIONS STAKES (CLASS 2) (All-Weather Fast Track Qualifier) The performance of COHESION which finished unplaced, was considered. David Bridgewater’s representative’s explanation that the race came too soon, having raced 7 days ago, was noted. COHESION was routine tested.
Race 3 - 1:50pm THE BETWAY MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) Inside the final furlong, STAR STORY, placed third, hung left causing EMERALD CROSS (IRE), placed second and SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN (IRE), placed fourth, to be carried slightly off their intended lines and CUCKOO’S CALLING, unplaced, to be briefly short of room. 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 STAR STORY.
The Stewards also noted that inside the final furlong the winner WARM OASIS, whilst hanging badly left, caused STAR STORY, placed third, to be eased and tightened for room, 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 WARM OASIS.
Following the race Ben Robinson reported that SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN (IRE), placed fourth, hung right throughout and Daniel Muscutt reported that the winner, WARM OASIS, hung badly left in the straight.
Race 4 - 2:25pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Inside the final half furlong, the winner, ESSPEEGEE, hung quickly right causing PERCY VERENCE, unplaced, to be briefly, 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 ESSPEEGEE.
Approaching the line, the winner, ESSPEEGEE hung right at the same time as MAGISTRAL, placed second, hung left causing contact between them, 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 ESSPEEGEE.
Following the race Dougie Costello reported that BOLLIHOPE, unplaced, hung left in the straight. Jamie Gormley reported that MITCD (IRE), placed fourth, was denied a clear run 2 ½ furlongs out. Rachel Richardson reported that PERCY VERENCE, unplaced, suffered interference inside the final half furlong.
The performance of FALCON’S FIRE (IRE) which finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Keith Dalgleish could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the FALCON’S FIRE (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 3:00pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) An enquiry was held to consider interference inside the final furlong when the winner THEGLASGOWWARRIOR, ridden by P.J McDonald hung left causing ACKER BILK (IRE), placed fourth, ridden by Graham Lee to be eased briefly and in turn caused slight interference to MANOMINE, placed third. The riders were interviewed and shown recordings of the incident. McDonald was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift left without sufficient correction.
Following the race Rowan Scott reported that GALILEE CHAPEL (IRE), unplaced, ran too free and Jack Garritty reported that ARCHIBELLE, unplaced, hung left in the straight.
Race 7 - 4:05pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Permission was given for RENE MATHIS (GER) to be mounted on the track and go early to post.
The Starter reported HAKAM (USA), trained by Michael Appleby, was the subject of a third criteria failure. The trainer was informed that the gelding could not run until the day after passing a stalls test. As it was the second occasion within the previous 12 months that HAKAM (USA) had been reported, a further report within the same period would mean the gelding would be prevented from having a stalls test for 6 months.
Following the race Jack Garritty reported that RENE MATHIS (GER), unplaced, ran too free. View Stewards report Wolverhampton, 16 Dec 17 Nothing to report
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 16:43:41 GMT
Guitar Pete claimed something of a hollow victory following the death of Starchitect in the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham.
Foxtail Hill took the 10-strong field along for much of the two-mile-five-furlong journey before David Pipe's Starchitect, runner-up in last month's BetVictor Gold Cup at the track, bounded into the lead down the hill.
The six-year-old turned for home with a significant lead, but he broke down on the run to the second fence from the finish and was swiftly pulled up and dismounted by Tom Scudamore.
Pipe confirmed that Starchitect suffered a broken hind leg.
He said: "No horse deserves that and Starchitect definitely didn't deserve it.
"He was a real tough customer and always tried his heart out. This was going to be his day today.
"Paul and Clare Rooney (owners) weren't here today and our thoughts are with them.
"He just broke a hind leg. It is just a freak accident but they happen.
"These things can happen out in a field on the racecourse. They can happen anywhere.
"We hope they never do but they do from time to time."
King's Odyssey and 3-1 favourite Clan Des Obeaux were left in front once Starchitect suffered a fatal injury, but the Nicky Richards-trained Guitar Pete picked them both up on the run-in.
The 9-1 chance galloped on strongly under his light weight to score by two and three-quarter lengths in the hands of 3lb claimer Ryan Day.
Clan Des Obeaux finished second, while King's Odyssey was third.
Speaking from Doncaster, Richards told Press Association Sport: "It's awful what happened to the other horse (Starchitect) and my heart goes out to Mr and Mrs Rooney.
"Nobody likes to see that and our thoughts are with them."
Of Guitar Pete, the Greystoke handler added: "It's great to win. Everybody knows Cheltenham is the place to win, but it's very hard to get winners there.
"Our horse was badly hampered at the first fence last time and was basically taken out of the race.
"We knew he was well then and he's freshened up since and was bouncing at home, so we were hopeful he'd run a big race.
"I can't remember when my last winner at Cheltenham was. I remember The French Furze winning there for us with Brian Harding riding him (in 2006).
"We've had a few winners there and a lot of horses run well, but it is a very hard place to get winners."
On future plans, Richards said: "We'll get him home and see how he is.
"We'll have a look at the programme book and see what we can find. If he wants a little break until the spring we'll do that.
"We'll be guided by the horse and try and do right by him."
Scudamore expressed deep sadness following the death of Starchitect.
He said: "He was going well coming off the bend. He has just gone wrong turning in.
"There was no signs of anything. He never felt better and it probably looked that way.
"I've not seen a replay of it and I'm not going to. It is very sad for everyone.
"I just feel sad for the horse as he has been knocking on the door so many times and today, possibly, was going to be his day and it wasn't to be.
"I don't know why it has happened. You couldn't blame anybody."
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 16:44:07 GMT
The jumps fixture at Carlisle on Sunday has been abandoned due to a frozen track.
Officials at the Cumbria circuit were left with no option but to draw stumps once they staged another inspection on Saturday afternoon.
A statement issued by Carlisle read: "Track still frozen, no improvement. Temp down to 0C, forecast minus 3C overnight."
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 21:53:19 GMT
Conditional jockey Harry Beswick, who was knocked out following a fall at Sedgefield this month, hopes to return to action by the start of January.
Beswick, who is based with Lambourn trainer Oliver Sherwood, was riding Dancing Doug for Sam Thomas when the four-year-old slipped on the bend three out.
Beswick took what he described as the "mother and father of falls" and suffered multiples fractures, although his head injury and concussion were the main concern.
"I'm out of hospital and on the road to recovery," said Beswick, whose career high came at Uttoxeter in January when he rode a double. "It's hard to tell when I'll be back, but I'd like to think I'd be back by the end of the month or the beginning of January.
"I've got no serious breaks, but it's just with the head and how long that takes. I've had some scans and everything is fine, but I wouldn't quite be 100 per cent yet. I'll let the professionals let me know when I can come back."
Beswick, who rode in France during the summer, added: "I've been popping into Oliver's to see the horses exercise and I've got a load of friends and family round, so that's quite nice."
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 21:54:06 GMT
Ben Haslam and Richie McLernon have individual records of 14 and 17 per cent at Southwell. When they join forces that improves to 38 per cent. They combine with Cash Again in the 12.55.
Charlie Appleby has an overall record of 25 per cent with his runners. That increases to 31 per cent, 11-35, when his runners wear first time cheekpieces. Calypso Blue sports the aid in the 1.15 at Chelmsford.
Ian Williams and Tom O’Brien have individual records of 16 and 17 per cent at Southwell. That rises to 80 per cent when they combine and they do so with former point-to-point winner First Assignment in the 2.05.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 16, 2017 21:54:45 GMT
Newmarket: Anthony Burke
Calypso Blue (1.15 Chelmsford)
Look as if the experience was needed when making her debut at Wolverhampton a few weeks back. May not have to improve much to play a leading hand here.
7/4 Calypso Blue 1:15 Chelmsford (AW) Others to follow Chelmsford 12.45 Line Of Destiny, 1.50 Our Kim, 2.25 Tulip Dress, 2.55 Arnarson, 3.25 The Eagles Nest, 4.00 How’s Lucy. Lambourn: James Burn
Article Fifty (1.30 Southwell, nap)
Warren Greatrex's faith in this four-year-old was justified with a smooth win in a Uttoxeter bumper last month and a big run is expected on his hurdling debut.
13/8 Article Fifty 1:30 Southwell Others to follow Chelmsford 3.25 Anif. Southwell 12.55 Hepijeu, 2.05 The Groovy Hoovy, 2.30 Midnight Silver, 3.05 Oscar Star, 3.35 Groundunderreppair. West Country: Tim Mitchell
Goosen Maverick (12.25 Southwell, nap)
Improved on previous efforts with a convincing first success over fences at Warwick last month. With the runner-up having franked the form the 10lb rise might not be enough to stop him following up.
10/3 Goosen Maverick 12:25 Southwell Others to follow Carlisle 1.40 Saint John Henry. Southwell 2.35 Fool To Cry. North: Colin Russell
Barbara Villiers (1.15 Chelmsford, nap)
Shaped well when third at Wolverhampton on her debut and having come on for that run is fancied to get off the mark this time.
11/2 Barbara Villiers 1:15 Chelmsford (AW) Others to follow Carlisle 12.05 Big Thunder, 12.35 Lough Derg Jewel, 1.05 Berkshire Downs, 1.40 Harry The Viking, 2.15 Isaactown Lad, 2.45 Oak Vintage, 3.15 Derriana Spirit. Chelmsford 1.50 Huddersfilly Town, 2.25 Amazing Grazing, 2.55 Fredericka, 3.25 Lagenda, 4.00 Cookie Ring. Southwell 12.25 French Seventyfive, 12.55 Cash Again, 2.35 Kalaniti, 3.35 Waltz Darling. Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Gunfleet (2.05 Southwell, nap)
Beat some fair sorts when winning a Stratford bumper in April and has shaped well on both starts over hurdles to date. Good chance in an open-looking novice.
3/1 Gunfleet 2:05 Southwell Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Titan Goddess (3.25 Chelmsford)
Dual course and distance winner, including a seller here recently, Mike Murphy's five-year-old is at the foot of the weights and can follow up.
13/2 Titan Goddess 3:25 Chelmsford (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Born For War (2.05 Southwell)
Shaped as though he needed the run last time out, and stepping up in trip should bring about more improvement.
14/1 Born For War 2:05 Southwell Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
She’s A Star (1.20 Navan)
Good placed efforts over two miles on her last two starts puts the Noel Meade-trained mare in with an excellent chance back over two and a half miles, a trip which she has won over. She gets the vote to score under Sean Flanagan.
13/2 She's A Star 1:20 Navan 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 dennisg on Dec 17, 2017 8:40:20 GMT
in today's sporting life.................. My Tent Or Yours enjoyed a well-deserved day in the sun after claiming victory in a thrilling Unibet International Hurdle at Cheltenham. Nicky Henderson's 10-year-old has finished runner-up in three renewals of the Champion Hurdle, not to mention in the 2013 Supreme Novices' Hurdle, and was also second to The New One in this Grade Two contest 12 months ago. He had not managed to get his head in front since landing a National Hunt Flat race at Kempton in February 2014, but proved the fire still burns bright with a heartwarming success under Barry Geraghty. The jockey said: "He's had some great runs here and that was brilliant. "He deserved it. He's knocked on the door plenty, but he battled really well against an ultra-tough horse (The New One). "You never want to take on The New One too early because you know he's going to keep coming. "It was sweet. It was a good buzz. It was teed up for a big finish - everything was there. "He pinged the last and he just found that extra gear. It was a great finish and it was as good as horse race as it gets. "If any horse has deserved a big race at Cheltenham it was him. He definitely deserved it and maybe he can run well in March." Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife My Tent Or Yours serves up an early festive treat with his first victory since 2014 🙌 One for the oldies 💪 3:33 PM - Dec 16, 2017 2 2 Replies 2 2 Retweets 10 10 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy The New One set out to make all the running in his bid to claim this prize for a fourth time, with My Tent Or Yours and the Willie Mullins-trained 7-4 favourite Melon waiting in the wings for much of the two-mile journey. The big three came down to the final flight together, with The New One sandwiched between My Tent Or Yours on the rail and the strong-travelling Melon on the far side. They settled down to fight it out and for a horse whose gumption has on occasion been questioned, My Tent Or Yours knuckled down admirably to prevail by a length and a quarter from his old rival. Melon was a further length away in third. Henderson said: "Ever since this horse was a bumper horse I thought the world of him. "You don't see horses that can have battles like that at that age. "That was a true race and he deserves it." Owner JP McManus said: "Full marks and Nicky to the team. Nicky never lost faith in this horse and always had faith in him. "Even at the age of 10, he still has the old spark there." Sam Twiston-Davies rode The New One for his father, Nigel - his first mount since he suffered broken elbow in a fall from Double Ross at Sandown on November 12. He said: "It's very rare you see me smiling after finishing second, but I had a great buzz off riding him and it's great to be back. "It's as fast as I've been over an obstacle in a while and he ran a blinder. "It's always going to be difficult to give 6lb to My Tent Or Yours, but he's run a cracker." David Mullins rode Melon, who was having just his fifth run over hurdles, and felt his inexperience told at the business end of the race. Mullins said: "He travelled very well and I thought I'd a great chance going down to the last and winged it. "Those seasoned horses were probably a bit tougher at the finish." Sky Bet left The New One unchanged at 33/1 for the with My Tent Or Yours trimmed to 25s from 33s. Spokesman Michael Shinners said: "It was an absolute thriller and My Tent Or Yours proved he still has a touch of class, although it would be a surprise were he to prove good enough to get the better of Faugheen and Buveur D'Air. View image on Twitter View image on Twitter Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife My Tent Or Yours finally enjoyed a big win at Cheltenham today, beating old rival The New One! 🏇🙌 🥈x 3 Champion Hurdle 🥈Supreme Novices Hurdle 🥈International Hurdle 2016 🏆 International Hurdle 2017
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Post by dennisg on Dec 17, 2017 8:41:54 GMT
Sire De Grugy is likely to have raced for the final time, said owner Steve Preston. The 2014 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner's decorated career is set to come to an end after he finished sixth in a handicap chase at Cheltenham on Saturday. Preston told "He's been showing at home that his appetite is as strong as ever but I think his aches and pains have got a bit too much for him. "Sire's done everything he could possibly do for anyone, he's been the horse of a lifetime. "We have had a wonderful journey and it's fantastic he's bowing out in one piece." Sire De Grugy, trained in West Sussex by Gary Moore, has struggled this season but won five Grade Ones at the height of his powers - including two renewals of the Tingle Creek at Sandown. Preston said: "He's going to stay with Jamie (Moore, Sire De Grugy's regular jockey) and the Moores. He's been my icon horse and I hope he has for them." View image on Twitter View image on Twitter Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife We wish Jamie Moore's "best mate" Sire De Grugy a very happy retirement 👍 🏇 🏆 Champion Chase 🏆 Tingle Creek Chase 🏆 Desert Orchid Chase 🏆 Clarence House Chase 🏆 Celebration Chase. 🥇17 wins
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Post by dennisg on Dec 17, 2017 8:43:17 GMT
Guitar Pete claimed something of a hollow victory following the death of Starchitect in the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Foxtail Hill took the 10-strong field along for much of the two-mile-five-furlong journey before David Pipe's Starchitect, runner-up in last month's BetVictor Gold Cup at the track, bounded into the lead down the hill. The six-year-old turned for home with a significant lead, but he broke down on the run to the second fence from the finish and was swiftly pulled up and dismounted by Tom Scudamore. Pipe confirmed that Starchitect suffered a broken hind leg. He said: "No horse deserves that and Starchitect definitely didn't deserve it. "He was a real tough customer and always tried his heart out. This was going to be his day today. "Paul and Clare Rooney (owners) weren't here today and our thoughts are with them. "He just broke a hind leg. It is just a freak accident but they happen. "These things can happen out in a field on the racecourse. They can happen anywhere. "We hope they never do but they do from time to time." King's Odyssey and 3-1 favourite Clan Des Obeaux were left in front once Starchitect suffered a fatal injury, but the Nicky Richards-trained Guitar Pete picked them both up on the run-in. The 9-1 chance galloped on strongly under his light weight to score by two and three-quarter lengths in the hands of 3lb claimer Ryan Day. Clan Des Obeaux finished second, while King's Odyssey was third. Speaking from Doncaster, Richards said: "It's awful what happened to the other horse (Starchitect) and my heart goes out to Mr and Mrs Rooney. "Nobody likes to see that and our thoughts are with them." Of Guitar Pete, the Greystoke handler added: "It's great to win. Everybody knows Cheltenham is the place to win, but it's very hard to get winners there. "Our horse was badly hampered at the first fence last time and was basically taken out of the race. "We knew he was well then and he's freshened up since and was bouncing at home, so we were hopeful he'd run a big race. "I can't remember when my last winner at Cheltenham was. I remember The French Furze winning there for us with Brian Harding riding him (in 2006). "We've had a few winners there and a lot of horses run well, but it is a very hard place to get winners." David Pipe @davidpiperacing Absolutely devastated, our thoughts are with owners Paul & Clare Rooney. A real superstar, a pleasure to train, he deserved to win a big one. Thank you for all the kind messages #RIP Starchi #youwillbemissed #legend 3:58 PM - Dec 16, 2017 109 109 Replies 255 255 Retweets 1,602 1,602 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy On future plans, Richards said: "We'll get him home and see how he is. "We'll have a look at the programme book and see what we can find. If he wants a little break until the spring we'll do that. "We'll be guided by the horse and try and do right by him." Scudamore expressed deep sadness following the death of Starchitect. He said: "He was going well coming off the bend. He has just gone wrong turning in. "There was no signs of anything. He never felt better and it probably looked that way. "I've not seen a replay of it and I'm not going to. It is very sad for everyone. "I just feel sad for the horse as he has been knocking on the door so many times and today, possibly, was going to be his day and it wasn't to be. "I don't know why it has happened. You couldn't blame anybody."
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Post by dennisg on Dec 17, 2017 8:45:30 GMT
Apple's Shakira enhanced her growing reputation when maintaining her unbeaten record with an effortless victory in the JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle at Cheltenham. After taking a Grade Two at the track on her debut for Nicky Henderson last month the three-year-old had little trouble in taking her record to three from three when brushing aside Nube Negra by three and a half lengths under Barry Geraghty. Henderson said of the 1/10 winner said: "It was good. A little bit more cover would help as she was a bit keen today. "She has woken up quite a bit at home since her first run. She just came away nicely and jumped very well. She is very slick. "I think you have got to like everything she has done. She had to do that when your are that price. She is going the right way but there is a long way to go. "I don't know whether Chepstow (Finale Hurdle) will come a bit quick. I think it is more likely she will come back here on Trials Day in January." Sky Bet left Apple's Shakira unchanged for the at 4/1.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 17, 2017 9:01:02 GMT
Sunday: going, weather & non-runners Chelmsford (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Showers STALLS: 6f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 1:50 London Grammar (2)Outlaw Torn (4)Norwegian Reward (7) 3:25 Titan Goddess (6) Navan GOING: HEAVY WEATHER: Rain Southwell GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Course covered) WEATHER: Showers NON RUNNERS: 12:55 Farm The Rock (1)Rocknrollrambo (6)Shanty Town (5) 1:30 Itsamanslife (7)Santo De Lune (10) 2:35 Oscar Rose (3) Thurles GOING: HEAVY WEATHER: Showers
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 17, 2017 16:09:10 GMT
Carlisle, 17 Dec 17 Fixture Note Abandonded - Frozen Nothing to report View Stewards report Southwell, 17 Dec 17 Race 1 - 12:25pm THE MILLIE ANN HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) The sponsorship in relation to GLOBAL DOMINATION, trained by Caroline Bailey, did not comply with the Sponsorship Code of Conduct. Bailey was warned as to her responsibility to ensure that the correct sponsorship is carried. The winner, SILENT MAN, appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Ludlow on 27 November 2017 where the gelding was pulled up. The representative of Tom Weston explained that SILENT MAN had benefitted from the first-time application of a tongue strap. The gelding was routine tested. The performance of CORNER CREEK (IRE), which was pulled up, was considered. Michael Scudamore explained that the gelding had ran flat following its most recent run 12 days earlier. The performance of GOOSEN MAVERICK (IRE), which started favourite and was pulled up, was considered. Grant Cann could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of GOOSEN MAVERICK (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities. Race 2 - 12:55pm THE SUZANNE GILBERT 50TH BIRTHDAY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Richie McLernon, the rider of CASH AGAIN (FR), which was pulled up, reported that his right rein had snapped during the race. The bridle and reins were inspected and as they were found to be in a serviceable condition, no further action was taken. Following the race, Mark Grant reported that HEPIJEU (FR), placed second, jumped right throughout. Race 3 - 1:30pm THE JOHN KAY PRESENTATION MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) BRIDGE OF CALLY (IRE) and EVERYBODY’S TALKIN (IRE) wore ear plugs. Race 4 - 2:05pm THE EBF ROTHERHAM RACING CLUB 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Qualifier) Permission was given for BALLYGOMARTIN (IRE) to go early to post. Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that PONTRESINA (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its left fore shoe. Race 6 - 3:05pm THE FLAMES OF NEWARK MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) Mark Bradstock was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of HAYLEY BELLE (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing. The performance of OUR BELLE AMIE, which started second favourite and finished fourth, was considered. The representative of Kim Bailey explained that the mare was unsuited by the going on this occasion, which was officially described as Soft, and would prefer better ground. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of OUR BELLE AMIE during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities. Race 7 - 3:35pm THE www.hall-fast.com AMATEUR RIDERS' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Warren Greatrex was fined £80 as the record of vaccinations on the passport of GROUNDUNDERREPAIR (IRE) had been altered. Following the race, Mr Z. Baker reported that MAKE ME A FORTUNE (IRE), which was pulled up, finished lame. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding revealed it was lame on its left fore.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 17, 2017 16:10:31 GMT
The jumps fixture at Musselburgh on Monday must pass an 8.30am precautionary inspection on raceday morning.
Officials at the Scottish circuit are taking no chances as there is a possibility that overnight temperatures could dip just below freezing.
The racecourse is currently fit for purpose, with the going on Sunday morning described as good to soft.
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