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Post by dennisg on Dec 20, 2017 8:45:24 GMT
in today's sporting life.................. Ben Linfoot assesses the latest official ratings from the BHA and one from Ireland as well following Cheltenham's International Meeting in the latest 'Weights & Measures'. Thrilling International serves up Festival clues My Tent Or Yours >>>> Remains on 162 The New One >>>> Remains on 163 Melon >>>> Up 4lb to 159 (Irish mark) The horse that came out best at the weights in Saturday’s Unibet International Hurdle was the one that made the least ripple in the large pool that is the Cheltenham Festival ante-post markets. While third-placed Melon was trimmed into a 16/1 third favourite for the Champion Hurdle and the winner My Tent Or Yours was cut to 25s from 40s in the same market, runner-up The New One was pretty much left alone at odds as big as 25/1 for his primary Festival target, the Sun Bets Stayers’ Hurdle. Giving 6lb to old rival My Tent Or Yours proved too tough a task this time, but his length-and-a-quarter defeat meant he would’ve come out on top off levels and he successfully put a length between himself and Melon with both carrying 11-6. It was further evidence that The New One isn’t far off his very best form despite the fact he is approaching a double-digit birthday and he absolutely deserves his retained 163 rating following two excellent performances in handicaps and his International second this season. That sort of rating is enough to put him in the mix for Stayers’ Hurdle honours and, who knows, it could well be that the three-mile trip will improve his current form. Despite having run 34 times in a career spanning six years, Nigel Twiston-Davies has never run him over a trip as far as three miles. In his novice season he was campaigned over 2m4f and 2m5f, culminating in his only Cheltenham Festival triumph in what is now the Ballymore, but that’s as far as he’s ever gone. After four failed attempts at the Champion Hurdle, it’s time to try something new. A new trip for The New One. And could the new kid on the block in the Stayers’ Hurdle division be overpriced at 25/1? Given he’s considered just 1lb and 4lb inferior to market leaders Nichols Canyon and Unowhatimeanharry respectively, the ratings suggest he might be. As for My Tent Or Yours, he stays on 162 and this was his day in the limelight. Receiving 6lb from The New One and Melon, race conditions were in his favour and he got away with ground being slightly softer than ideal. Second in the last three Champion Hurdles, he’ll have a fight on to finish as high as that in this season’s rankings if both Faugheen and Buveur d’Air turn up in top form, but there’s every chance he can be best of the rest given he can improve on this effort on spring ground. There’s obviously a feeling that the ‘B’ team were sent out from both Seven Barrows and Closutton at Cheltenham on Saturday, but, while we know where we are with My Tent Or Yours, there remains the potential for Melon to rank much higher come the end of the season. The Irish assessor has raised him 4lb to 159 now, not bad after just five hurdle starts. In comparison, Buveur D’Air was rated 151 after five starts over hurdles, while Faugheen was considered just a 2lb better animal on 161. And there is certainly room for improvement with Melon. He was too keen in the early stages on Saturday and was a bit short of room two out as well, so to finish as close as he did considering his relative inexperience says a lot about his natural talent. Off a harder gallop in a Champion Hurdle this strong traveller could have a big say. It’s no wonder he’s third favourite and, if he continues his improvement on his current trajectory, he’ll be much closer to the front two in the betting come March. 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 3:53 PM - Dec 16, 2017 Replies Retweets 4 4 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Clan worth his weight in Gold Guitar Pete >>>> Up 5lb to 139 Clan Des Obeaux >>>> Remains on 155 King’s Odyssesy >>>> Down 1lb to 139 The fatal injury to Starchitect just as he was about to land the biggest win of his career in the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup was devastating and never has a feature race at Cheltenham been greeted with such subdued applause. The winner, Guitar Pete, traded at 1000/1 in-running on Betfair when Starchitect went clear, but Nicky Richards’ horse stayed on best up the hill once the race changed complexion and he overhauled favourite Clan Des Obeaux who had worked hard to get to the lead. It’s tough to put numbers on those that prevailed in the finish given what happened to Starchitect, but the handicapper went with a 5lb increase for the winner, the only horse to go up in the weights, with Clan Des Obeaux left alone on 155. Everything came together for Guitar Pete on Saturday in that it was a relatively small field, the ground wasn’t too testing and Foxtail Hill ensured it was run at a good clip. Things won’t always go so smoothly for him, as they didn’t in the BetVictor, and a sound gallop looks essential to his cause. Given the right scenario I’m sure he can be competitive off 5lb higher, but I wouldn’t have thought any moderate gallops in deep midwinter ground would be his thing. Therefore, we might not see the best of him again until the spring, but if he sneaks into one of the better handicaps off a low weight he’d be a danger to all. As for Paul Nicholls’ Clan Des Obeaux, this was an excellent run off top weight and one that can propel him to better things. He gave 24lb to the winner for less than a three-length beating and was cajoled along half a mile from home before taking the lead just before the last. It's not the first time he’s shaped as though three miles would bring out the best in him and he lost nothing in defeat after not being able to go with the winner, giving him so much weight, after the last. This five-year-old is in the right hands to progress and while connections will probably adopt a patient approach with him over the next few months it would be no surprise to watch him develop into a 160+ horse before the season’s end. King’s Odyssey ran well in third but the ground needs to be even more testing for him to be at his absolute best. Dropped another pound, he’s well-handicapped and will have a good few options at this track in January when the ground is likely to be right up his street. Guitar Pete beats Clan Des Obeaux at Cheltenham Guitar Pete: Raised 5lb for beating Clan Des Obeaux Hike Of The Meeting Kilbricken Storm >>>> Up 10lb to 147 Perhaps a slightly surprising one here with Kilbricken Storm going up 10lb for his Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle win over Count Meribel. Only four runners turned up in this, which was disappointing in itself, and then the well-fancied Equus Secretus didn’t run up to form after running too free down to the start and during the race, while Global Stage didn’t seem to stay. Count Meribal ran well off the front end and looked set to win jumping the last, but that’s when Kilbricken Storm’s stamina kicked into overdrive and he stayed on strongly to win going away, despite hanging to his left up the hill. He got 3lb from a 138-rated rival on Saturday and beat him less than three lengths, but the handicapper was impressed and put him up 10lb to a new mark of 147. Generally 25/1 for the Albert Bartlett and even 33s in a place, those sort of odds are massive if you believe in his new rating. Indeed, only Death Duty was rated higher than that going into last year’s Albert Bartlett. However, on balance, I would be inclined to side with the bookies over the handicapper on this one. Down, down, down, down Knockgraffon >>>> Down 3lb to 141 Romain De Senam >>>> Down 2lb to 143 Movewiththetimes >>>> Down 1lb to 144 Three horses from the International Meeting that have been ever-so-slightly dropped by the assessor but could be worth keeping an eye on for various assignments later in the campaign… Down one at 141… Knockgraffon, who was outpaced over two miles on his stable debut for Olly Murphy. The trainer reported on Racing UK beforehand that he’d probably come on for the run despite having first time everything (tongue-tie, cheekpieces and a wind op as well) and he certainly shaped like that, while a step up in trip could help too. He’ll be interesting over further off his new mark with that run under his belt. Down two at 143… Romain De Senam, the Caspian Caviar fifth and he ran okay in the race despite ground conditions going against him. He’s only 4lb higher than his last win now and he’ll be interesting in the spring when he encounters a better surface. I’ve no doubt he can resume his upward curve then. Down 1lb at 144… Movewiththetimes, who has shaped well in three novice chases now without winning. Saturday’s run behind Kalondra was probably his worst yet, but this was the softest ground he’s encountered over fences, too, and at least another pound was shaved off his rating. We’ve said it before but we’ll mention it again, the novice handicap at the Festival, now a 0-145, looks his bag.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 20, 2017 8:46:50 GMT
Anita Chambers previews Wednesday's racing with her best bets coming on the evening card at Kempton. Eltezam has yet to strike for Amanda Perrett but his time can come in the ROA/Racing Post Owners' Jackpot Handicap at Kempton. The four-year-old only won once in 10 starts for Richard Hannon but was good enough to finish third in the Coventry and fourth in the July Stakes as a juvenile, so it is easy to see why connections persisted. However, after falling down the ratings, Eltezam changed hands for 32,000 guineas in July and has managed to place four times in seven starts for Perrett. His recent three-quarter-length second at Chelmsford was a decent effort, especially considering the 10-furlong trip he faced was beyond his ideal. Switching back to a mile here off a mark of 80, Eltezam has plenty in his favour. Made Of Honour is an interesting contender in the 100% Profit Boost At 32Redsport.com Fillies' Handicap after scoring in France last time. Karl Burke's runner was last seen in Britain racing off a mark of 77 and despite subsequently winning a minor heat on the all-weather at Chantilly, the handicapper has seen fit to drop her 3lb. Trainer Karl Burke Karl Burke: Trains Made Of Honour Our Man In Havana is the pick in the 32Red.com Nursery Handicap at Lingfield. He switched to the care of Richard Price in October and has clearly been suited by the move as he has won once and finished second in two starts for that handler so far. He only had a neck to spare in a moderate Wolverhampton contest last time, but there was much to like about his attitude that day. Tacenda had to settle for second at Carlisle earlier this month but she can enjoy her moment in the spotlight in the Thoroughbred Breeders Association Mares' Novices' Chase at Newbury. A winner at Fontwell in November, she found Willie Mullins' Benie Des Dieux far too good in Cumbria, coming home eight lengths adrift after a couple of slightly suspect leaps. Tacenda appeared to enjoy making her own running at Fontwell, but she just could not get rolling in front at Carlisle and that was possibly a factor in what was a slightly disappointing effort. However, she is not one to give up on just yet, a view Anthony Honeyball clearly takes as he gives her another short at Listed glory here. Holbrook Park wasted no time in opening his account over fences when striking over three miles at Fakenham four weeks ago and can follow up in the St James's Place Chase. He drops back ever so slightly in distance, but that should not be a problem to Neil King's seven-year-old. Having blown away with the cobwebs with a spin over the smaller obstacles at Aintree in October, Nicky Henderson's high-class hurdler Burbank can make a successful transition to fences in the Alfa Aggregate Products "Confined" Novices' Chase at Ludlow. Sporting Life suggestions KEMPTON: 4.10 Desert Doctor, 4.40 Michael Corleone, 5.10 Glencadam Master, 5.40 Allegiant, 6.10 ELTEZAM (NAP), 6.40 Cool Breeze, 7.10 Made Of Honour, 7.40 Great Return. LINGFIELD: 11.40 Culpability, 12.10 Sweet Charity, 12.40 Perfection. 1.10 Top Diktat, 1.45 Our Man In Havana, 2.20 Zenovia, 2.55 Noble Behest, 3.25 Moneyoryourlife. LUDLOW: 12.20 Honest Vic, 12.50 Burbank, 1.20 Festive Affair, 1.55 Tell It To Me, 2.30 Monbeg Charmer, 3.05 Tindaro, 3.35 Flash The Steel. NEWBURY: 12.30 Doctor Bartolo, 1.00 Potterman, 1.30 Holbrook Park, 2.05 Tacenda, 2.40 Bally Gilbert, 3.15 Mr Whipped, 3.45 Qumiba.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 20, 2017 8:48:07 GMT
David Ord heads to Ludlow for Wednesday's best bet - and a horse he hopes can take advantage of a tumbling handicap mark. Recommended bet: Sporting Life's Daily Nap, December 20 Clonacool can take advantage of a slipping handicap mark and regain the winning thread in the Tanners Prosecco Handicap Hurdle at Ludlow on Wednesday. Trainer Stuart Edmunds is in tremendous form right now and this eight-year-old took a step back in the right direction when chasing home Barman at Taunton last time. He won a handicap chase here from a mark of 135 in January last year and a handicap hurdle at Market Rasen in September 2015 from 132. Here, despite top weight, he’s off 122. The excellent Gina Andrews takes the ride and Clonacool is fancied to get the better of Ascendant, chasing a four-timer, and the unexposed Litterale Ci who represents top connections. Daily Nap record: +1.06pts
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Post by dennisg on Dec 20, 2017 8:49:44 GMT
With Sky Bet now going non-runner, no bet on the 32Red King George VI Chase at Kempton - David Ord goes through the field for the Boxing Day showpiece. AR MAD: Won Wayward Lad here during a profitable novice chase campaign back in 2015/16 and stepped back in right direction when third in Tingle Creek last time but much more needed here and stamina to prove.() BRISTOL DE MAI: Looked the real deal in getting the better of Blaklion at Wetherby before routing his field in the Betfair Chase at Haydock. This is a different test but arrives here in the form of his life and any Christmas rain is in his favour. Could face competition for the early lead but looks a massive player. () Play Video 2017 Betfair Chase - Bristol De Mai - Racing UK DISKO: Grade One winner at Punchestown in April and reappeared with battling victory at Down Royal. Another prominent racer but one who has a fair bit to find for all there may be more to come.() DJAKADAM: More likely to take up engagement in Ireland over Christmas but nothing wrong with his reappearance-second to Sizing John at Punchestown. Top-class staying chaser and entitled to be sharper for the outing, he’d be a contender if heading over the Irish Sea. () DOUBLE SHUFFLE: Chased Top Notch home at a respectful distance in the Ascot Chase last time and while he goes well here, there's little else to suggest he’s ready to win a King George. () FOX NORTON: Stepping up in trip after failing to reel in Politologue in the Tingle Creek at Sandown and produced a career-best performance when slamming Sub Lieutenant over two-and-a-half miles at Aintree in April. Stamina for this has to be taken on trust though, especially with a strong gallop assured at the head of affairs. Big chance if he stays. () GOD’S OWN: Ran well for a long way on reappearance at Aintree and beaten just over two lengths by Fox Norton in Grade One at Punchestown in April. Plenty of talent but another who is unproven at the trip.() MIGHT BITE: The leading staying novice of last season, winning at Cheltenham (despite a well-publicised detour after the last) and Aintree. Would have runaway with with the Kauto Star here too but for falling when clear at the last. Had straightforward task to win on reappearance at Sandown and a worthy favourite – for all this is clearly his toughest test over fences to date. () OUTLANDER: A top-flight winner in his native Ireland but was treading water a long way out when beaten 66 lengths by Bristol De Mai in the Betfair Chase. Answers on a postcard as to how he can overturn such a deficit here. () ROAD TO RESPECT: Capable of better over fences but while Down Royal second to Outlander represented a career-best effort, much more is needed here. () TEA FOR TWO: Found it too much in the closing stages when thumped by Bristol De Mai in the Betfair Chase but went better than finishing position suggest there. This is a much more his kettle of fish and has won three of his four starts at Kempton (including Grade One Kauto Star Novices’ Chase). Only defeat came when fourth in this last year and if they go too hard up front he could pick up the pieces late and hit the frame at a price.() THISTLECRACK: Looked to have the staying chase division at his hooves when running away with this last year but suffered season-ending injury after being touched off by the late Many Clouds at Cheltenham. Connections were satisfied with his reappearance fifth over hurdles at Newbury but he was beating a retreat from the second last there and has questions to answer now. () Racing UK ✔ @racing_UK FULL REPLAY & REACTION: Effervescent Thistlecrack dazzles in Christmas show >>> bit.ly/2ijWmPL 8:00 AM - Dec 27, 2016 2 2 Replies 34 34 Retweets 49 49 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy TOP NOTCH: Started this season well and got the job done when odds-on for rearranged Peterborough Chase last week. Nicky Henderson was itching to go here with him but owners (responsible for Bristol De Mai) are set to wait for the Ascot Chase. () TRAFFIC FLUIDE: Another to finish in a different county to Bristol De Mai in the Betfair Chase and even Poirot would struggle to make much a case for him on any of his previous form. () WHISPER: Found Might Bite too hot to handle at both Cheltenham and Aintree last season but returned in good heart this term, edging out Clan Des Obeaux here before running a mighty race to finish second in the Hennessy. Arrives here at the top of his game and respected – but difficult to see why he’ll beat his stablemate this time around. () Verdict Might Bite heads the market and is the most interesting runner in here but he hasn’t been missed in the market. Fox Norton rates the best of the Tizzard pair and is a threat to them all if he stays but BRISTOL DE MAI continues to be written off as a Haydock mudlark. He could hardly have done more this season and at 7/2 represents a decent bet to land leg two of the Jockey Club Triple Crown. For those looking to play at a fancier price, Tea for Two makes most appeal.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:13:36 GMT
Newmarket: David Milnes
Perfection (12.40 Lingfield, nap)
John Gosden's filly was well backed on her debut at Chelmsford last month and showed promise when finishing a close-up fourth over a mile. The daughter of Dutch Art has since impressed on Long Hill and is expected to take the beating.
6/5 Perfection 12:40 Lingfield (AW) Others to follow Lingfield 11.40 Culpability, 12.10 Sophie Gray, 1.45 Central City, 2.20 Strictly Carter, 2.55 Lost The Moon, 3.25 Alternate Route. Kempton 4.10 Lady At Thumama, 4.40 Royal Residence, 5.10 Statehood, 5.40 Native Appeal, 6.10 Dance Teacher, 7.10 Robbie Roo Roo. Lambourn: James Burn
Style De Garde (12.30 Newbury, nap)
Well-regarded French import has a penalty but is just the type champion trainer Nicky Henderson excels with, so expect a big run.
Evs Style De Garde 12:30 Newbury Others to follow Kempton 4.10 Moon Song, 5.10 La Mernancia, 6.10 Assanilka. Lingfield 12.10 Oskemen, 12.40 Daybreak, 1.10 Drumochter, 1.45 Motown Mick, 2.20 Spin Top. Ludlow 12.20 Melangerie, 12.50 Hogan's Height, 1.55 Tell It To Me, 3.35 Cracking Destiny. Newbury 1.00 Doux Pretender, 1.30 Cosmos Des Obeaux, 2.05 Surtee Du Berlais, 3.15 Mr Whipped. West Country: Tim Mitchell
Melrose Boy (3.15 Newbury, nap)
Built on previous promise when a convincing winner of a competitive 19-runner handicap on debut in that sphere at Cheltenham off a mark of 123. Fancied to follow up with plenty of scope for improvement.
6/5 Melrose Boy 3:15 Newbury Others to follow Ludlow 12.20 Casterly Rock, 2.30 Thomas Brown, 3.05 Litterale Ci, 3.35 Cotswold Way. Newbury 2.05 Tacenda, 2.40 Born To Size, 3.45 Empreinte Reconce. North: Colin Russell
Nicolas Chauvin (1.20 Ludlow, nap)
Rare course runner for Jimmy Moffatt. Scored in good style at Wetherby in October and, though up in the weights, is fancied to go well again.
11/4 Nicolas Chauvin 1:20 Ludlow Others to follow Kempton 7.10 Made Of Honour. Ludlow 3.05 Lincoln County. Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Potterman (1.00 Newbury, nap)
Landed a Huntingdon bumper in May and shaped like a certain future hurdle winner when third at Kempton last month. This looks a good opportunity.
7/4 Potterman 1:00 Newbury Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Lacan (6.10 Kempton)
Appreciated the decent pace when scoring over course and distance seven weeks ago and Brett Johnson's six-year-old can follow up off a 5lb higher mark.
10/3 Lacan 6:10 Kempton (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Exmoor Mist (2.40 Newbury)
Out of sorts lately, but this course-and-distance winner will enjoy the ground and can cash in off a declining handicap mark.
11/1 Exmoor Mist 2:40 Newbury >> There are no tips from Ireland today
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:14:09 GMT
Kim Bailey has a 24 per cent strike-rate with bumper debutants and that increases to an impressive 83 percent at Ludlow. He saddles Thibault in the 3.35.
Mark Rimell has a 31 per cent strike-rate at Kempton which increases to 67 percent when he combines with Tom Marquand. They team up in the 7.10 with course-and-distance winner Magic Mirror.
Tom George has a 21 per cent strike-rate at Ludlow which increases to 44 per cent with horses wearing first-time cheekpieces. He saddles course winner Battle Of Shiloh in the 2.30.
Nicky Henderson has a 25 per cent strike-rate at Newbury and a 43 per cent strike-rate with new recruits. The champion trainer is represented by Style De Garde (12.30) and Cosmos Des Obeaux (1.30).
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:14:28 GMT
BANKER
Cracking Destiny (3.35 Ludlow)
Was fancied to make a winning debut under rules in a hot Cheltenham bumper (9-4 from a morning 5-1) but failed to fire and finished ninth of 14. I'm pretty sure that's not his true running and with James Bowen taking off 5lb, he should make amends here.
3/1 Cracking Destiny 3:35 Ludlow EYECATCHER
Pretty Bubbles (6.40 Kempton)
Undeniably well handicapped on his old form, the eight-year-old Pretty Bubbles can finally get back into the winner's enclosure for the first time since December last year. Racing off a mark of 70, 12lb lower than when winning 12 months ago at Lingfield, he should make the most of being able to drop in grade and run off topweight. Expect Josephine Gordon to coax him into contention before striking late.
6/1 Pretty Bubbles 6:40 Kempton (AW) Let our experts point you in the direction of the winners with invaluable punting pointers delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up here to get our free newsletter every week
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:15:22 GMT
If there was any doubt what a popular figure Peter Walwyn was in Lambourn, one had only to look at the attendance inside the St Michael & All Angels Church. There was no doubt.
The nearby streets, normally collecting winter leaves or a dusting of ice, were on Tuesday packed bumper to bumper as a crowd of around 600 people gathered to say goodbye to one of the village's all-time favourite sons – a number Reverend Martin Cawte reckoned to be among the top three for a memorial service in his time at this particular altar.
Walwyn, who died this month aged 84, was a two-time champion Flat trainer, in 1974 and 1975, and famed for his handling of Derby hero Grundy, who denied Bustino in a King George duel for the ages. But he was much more than a successful trainer.
Devoted husband to his equally popular wife 'Bonk', loving father and admired grandfather, Walwyn was a driving force of the community spirit Lambourn is lucky to rely on now.
He set up the Lambourn Trainers Association, was at the forefront of the Lambourn Valley Housing Trust and was partly responsible for what is the hugely important Lambourn open day, now staged in honour of Sir Peter O'Sullevan.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:16:27 GMT
Owners and jockeys have agreed a 3.1 per cent increase in riding fees for 2018, rejecting the BHA's call for the increase to be waived as part of the package of measures to reduce non-runner rates.
In August the BHA said it would encourage the Racehorse Owners Association and Professional Jockeys Association to agree that owners would pay a full riding fee to jockeys in the case of non-runners declared after 9am on the day of race, rather than the current 40 per cent, with that taking the place of an increase in riding fees next year.
Neither the ROA nor the PJA wished to go down that route and instead agreed to a riding fee increase equal to the November consumer price index.
That means the riding fee increases from £120.66 to £124.40 on the Flat, and from £164.74 to £169.85 over jumps.
PJA chief executive Paul Struthers said that negotiations with the ROA had been "perfectly amicable", adding of the BHA's suggestion: "I think it's fair to say neither ourselves nor the ROA were especially keen on that."
On the issue of riding fees for non-runners, Struthers said: "That's a longer-term piece of work for next year, looking at how we can work together to improve the financial situation for jockeys.
"As part of that we need to undertake quite a serious piece of work in the first quarter of next year. That process has started but won't really get going until next year."
The BHA said it remained hopeful that eventually the two sides would take up their recommendations on riding fees for non-runners.
A statement from the governing body said: "We understand the decision of the PJA and ROA to agree an increase in riding fee in 2018.
"The BHA remains hopeful that, in the longer term, the recommendation of the non-runners review relating to the payment of riding fees to jockeys of non-runners declared after 9am can be implemented. We’ll continue to liaise with the PJA and ROA on this."
Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:17:07 GMT
The controversy of small fields running for good prize-money at Ludlow seems to have disappeared like the snow with a bumper turnout at the picturesque Shropshire track today.
Newbury still holds bragging rights though with a Listed novice chase for mares, but racing's conundrum shows up again as the £25,000 feature has just seven runners - but try picking the winner with six of them priced in single figures.
Flat racing fans are not left out with Lingfield followed later by Kempton offering 16 races with top owners and trainers, but the good midwinter mix of apprentices and their seniors in the saddle.
Going report
Lingfield - first race 11.40
Standard
Ludlow - 12.20
Hurdles: soft, good to soft in places Chase: good to soft, good in places
Newbury - 12.30
Soft
Race distance alterations: Race 1 & 2: +94 yards Race 3 & 4: +79 yards Race 5: +45 yards Race 6: +67 yards Race 7: +30 yards
Kempton- 4.10
Standard
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:18:57 GMT
NEWBURY
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.30 Style De Garde
1.00 Potterman
1.30 Cosmos Des Obeaux
2.05 Tacenda
2.40 Bally Gilbert
3.15 Gowiththeflow (nap)
3.45 Empreinte Reconce
GIMCRACK
12.30 Doctor Bartolo
1.00 Potterman
1.30 Holbrook Park
2.05 Tacenda
2.40 Bally Gilbert
3.15 Mr Whipped
3.45 Quimba
LINGFIELD
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
11.40 Culpability
12.10 Sweet Charity
12.40 Perfection
1.10 Drumochter
1.45 Our Man In Havana
2.20 Zenovia
2.55 Volpone Jelois
3.25 Alternate Route
GIMCRACK
11.40 Culpability
12.10 Sweet Charity
12.40 Perfection
1.10 Top Diktat
1.45 Our Man In Havana
2.20 Zenovia
2.55 Noble Behest
3.25 Moneyoryourlife
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:19:23 GMT
LUDLOW
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.20 Gortroe Joe
12.50 Burbank
1.20 Ifandbutwhynot
1.55 Tell It To Me
2.30 Marcilhac (nb)
3.05 Litterale Ci
3.35 Cracking Destiny
GIMCRACK
12.20 Honest Vic
12.50 Burbank
1.20 Festive Affair
1.55 Tell It To Me
2.30 Monbeg Charmer
3.05 Tindaro
3.35 Flash The Steel
KEMPTON
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
4.10 Lady Al Thumama
4.40 Stealth
5.10 Statehood
5.40 Qayed
6.10 Assanilka
6.40 Lady Cristal
7.10 Courier
7.40 Howardian Hills
GIMCRACK
4.10 Desert Doctor
4.40 Michael Corleone
5.10 Glencadam Master
5.40 Allegiant
6.10 Eltezam (nap)
6.40 Cool Breeze
7.10 Made Of Honour (nb)
7.40 Great Return
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 9:20:02 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 17:17:06 GMT
Ludlow, 20 Dec 17 Race 1 - 12:20pm THE TANNERS CAVA 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) MELANGERIE wore earplugs throughout the race.
Race 2 - 12:50pm THE ALFA AGGREGATE PRODUCTS "CONFINED" NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Permission was given for HOGAN’S HEIGHT (IRE) to be led in at the start.
Following the race, Aidan Coleman reported that BURBANK (IRE), which started favourite and finished unplaced, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer also reported that MAX FORTE (IRE), which was pulled up, and WANDRIN STAR (IRE), placed fourth, both lost their left fore shoes.
Following this race, an enquiry was held to determine whether the outside running rail at the second road crossing on the entrance to the back straight of the Chase course had been configured correctly. Gavin Sheehan, the Clerk of the Course and the Head Groundsman were interviewed. Having heard their evidence, a report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority for their consideration.
Race 3 - 1:20pm THE TANNERS WINES HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that IFANDBUTWHYNOT (IRE), placed fourth, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 4 - 1:55pm THE G C RICKARDS LTD EBF MARES' 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) BROCKTON GANDT was kicked by another runner at the start. Having been examined by the Veterinary Surgeon at the start, the mare was deemed fit to race.
Following the race, Charlie Hammond reported that BROCKTON GANDT, which was pulled up, jumped poorly and Gavin Sheehan reported that WELCOME POLLY (IRE), unplaced, ran green and jumped novicey throughout.
Following this race, an enquiry was held to consider the circumstances under which a couple of employees of trainer Oliver Sherwood had run onto the racecourse prior to the completion of the race. The representative of Oliver Sherwood was interviewed. She stated that she had run onto the racecourse as she was concerned for the welfare of their runner, VALDAS PRINCESS, which had fallen at the final flight. She added that she was aware that WELCOME POLLY (IRE) had still to complete the course but she was confident they were in no danger having communicated with the rider of WELCOME POLLY (IRE). Having heard her evidence, the representative of Oliver Sherwood was cautioned as to her future conduct in such circumstances.
Race 5 - 2:30pm THE TANNERS CHAMPAGNE HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Permission was given for MONBEG CHARMER (IRE) to be mounted in the Pre-Parade Ring and go early to post.
Following the race, Adam Wedge reported that STILL BELIEVING (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that both BATTLE OF SHILOH (IRE), which started favourite and was pulled up, and WILL O'THE WEST (IRE), placed sixth, had bled from the nose.
Race 7 - 3:35pm THE TANNERS CLARET STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4) Harry Whittington was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of LET’S GET AT IT (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing.
Approaching the home bend, the winner, HARAMBE, edged left-handed, tightening HIGGS (IRE), unplaced, for room and which was steadied, 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 HARAMBE. View Stewards report Newbury, 20 Dec 17 Race 1 - 12:30pm THE ST. JAMES'S PLACE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) TITAN wore earplugs.
Race 2 - 1:00pm THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF DISTILLERS MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race James Best reported that BOUGHTBEFORELUNCH (IRE), unplaced, hung left-handed throughout.
Race 3 - 1:30pm THE ST. JAMES'S PLACE STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 3) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that HOLBROOK PARK, which was pulled up, lost its left fore shoe and COSMOS DES OBEAUX (FR), which was pulled up, had bled from the nose.
Race 4 - 2:05pm THE THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS ASSOCIATION MARES' NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) MS PARFOIS (IRE) wore earplugs, which were removed at the start.
Race 5 - 2:40pm THE POWERSOLVE ELECTRONICS GREATWOOD CHARITY CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that EXMOOR MIST, unplaced, had bled from the nose.
Race 6 - 3:15pm THE QOLCOM EBF STALLIONS 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Qualifier) Following the race Tom Scudamore reported that WARTHOG (FR), which was pulled up, stopped quickly and the Veterinary Officer reported that WALLACE SPIRIT (FR), which was pulled up, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 7 - 3:45pm THE ST. JAMES'S PLACE FILLIES' "JUNIOR" STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 6) (NHMOPS Bonus Race) The record of vaccinations in the passport of SUZIE STAPLES did not comply with the Rules of Racing. Richard Price was fined £280 as this was his second offence within the previous 12 months. View Stewards report Lingfield Park, 20 Dec 17 Race 1 - 11:40am THE 32Red.com EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV I) Following the race, Stevie Donohoe reported that BORN TO SPEND (IRE), unplaced, hung right-handed throughout and ran too freely.
Race 2 - 12:10pm THE 32Red.com EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (DIV II) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, MEWTOW, lost its left fore shoe and Robert Havlin reported that SOPHIE GRAY (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 3 - 12:40pm THE 32Red CASINO EBF FILLIES' NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) (PLUS 10 RACE) An enquiry was held to consider interference approximately 5 furlongs out when DAYBREAK, unplaced, ridden by Oisin Murphy interfered with ASTROBLAZE, unplaced, ridden by Joey Haynes. Murphy was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to edge left when not sufficiently clear, causing Haynes to take a slight check.
Following the race, Oisin Murphy reported that DAYBREAK, unplaced, ran too freely.
Race 6 - 2:20pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Following the race, Fran Berry reported that FULLON CLARETS, unplaced, hung badly left-handed in the straight and Adam Kirby reported that EL TORITO (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 8 - 3:25pm THE BETWAY APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for ALTERNATE ROUTE to be mounted on the chute.
The winner, BAMAKO DU CHATELET (FR), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Wolverhampton on 20 November 2017 where the gelding finished twelfth of twelve, beaten by 26 lengths. It was noted that Ian Williams’ representative could offer no explanation for the gelding’s improved form. BAMAKO DU CHATELET (FR) was routine tested. View Stewards report Kempton Park, 20 Dec 17 Race 1 - 4:10pm THE CINDY FULLER NOVICE MEDIAN AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for LADY AL THUMAMA to wear a hood in the parade ring.
The Starter reported that AMBROISE (IRE), trained by Richard Hannon, was unruly in the stalls and withdrawn. The trainer was informed that the colt could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
Following the race Stevie Donohoe reported that LADY AL THUMAMA, placed fourth, ran too free.
Race 2 - 4:40pm THE 32Red/BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) CRAFTINESS, unplaced, jumped right at the same time as ROYAL RESIDENCE, placed fourth, jumped marginally left leaving the stalls interfering with STEALTH, unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Aaron Jones reported that JAMPOWER, unplaced, ran too free. Kieren Fox reported that PACO STYLE, unplaced, was slowly away.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 17:18:50 GMT
Cheltenham has announced significant prize money increases for their meetings for the next three months, including the Festival in March.
As recently announced, race values at Jockey Club Racecourses will have an £8 million injection during 2018 and this includes the home of National Hunt racing.
The increases begin straight away, with prize money on New Year's Day up by 23 per cent to £260,000.
The Festival Trials Day fixture on January 27 has been boosted by £24,000 to reach a total of £354,000, while there is a seven per cent increase in prize money across the four days of the Festival, with every day offering over £1million for the first time as part of a record total of £4,590,000.
Simon Claisse, regional head of racing, Jockey Club Racecourses South West and clerk of the course at Cheltenham, said: "We are delighted to be able to offer increased prize money at Cheltenham over the next three months, with bigger prize funds on all racedays and at all levels of competition.
"We will announce in due course the details of higher prize money for our racedays in April and May and the first part of the 2018/2019 season."
All the Grade One championship contests at the Festival have benefited from the increase.
Prize money for both the Unibet Champion Hurdle and the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase has risen £50,000 to £450,000 and £400,000 respectively.
The Sun Bet Stayers' Hurdle is up to £325,000 from £300,000, while the Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup is now worth £625,000 - up from £575,000 - consolidating its position as the richest Grade One chase in Britain.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 17:19:32 GMT
Musselburgh will be able to continue operating under a temporary licence until March 31, 2018 after the BHA agreed to extend it while an ongoing review into the track's governance is being conducted.
The local authority-owned track was in danger of being unable to stage fixtures earlier this year amid concerns it was not being run properly.
A temporary licence was granted on the proviso an independent governance review was accepted, with legal firm Pinsent Masons subsequently employed to fulfil that task.
The licence, initially due to expire on December 31, has now been extended until the end of March.
Musselburgh chief executive Bill Farnsworth said: "We're pleased that the BHA has extended our licence so that the governance review can be completed and recommended changes are implemented. We're now looking forward to putting on another successful New Year’s Day meeting."
Catherine Beloff, the BHA's director of legal and governance, said: "The renewal means the temporary licence will cover the nine-month timeline for the completion of an independent governance review and substantial implementation of its recommendations, which were conditions of the last temporary licence given in July.
"On expiry of the temporary licence, the [BHA] board will consider the progress made in relation to implementation in determining whether it is appropriate in the best interests of Musselburgh racecourse and the wider sport to extend the licence for a further period."
The details and results of the report conducted by Pinsent Masons will not be made available to the public.
Local newspaper the East Lothian Courier contacted East Lothian council, who have four councillors involved in the Musselburgh Joint Racing Committee which runs the racecourse, about the report and were told: "This is a private report which contains commercially sensitive information and there are no plans to release this at present."
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 20, 2017 17:20:36 GMT
Kelso has been called to account for a potentially dangerous incident in which a fork used for repairing rough ground between races was left propped up against the kick-board in front of the open ditch.
The fenceman realised his mistake but by then the five runners in the 3m2f chase on October 28 were thundering down to the second fence.
All of the field managed to avoid the extra obstacle, and the jockeys told a BHA inquiry in London on Wednesday they were largely unaware of what exactly they had evaded when tackling the fence. By the time they returned on the next circuit the fork had been removed.
Kelso managing director Jonathan Garratt, who moved from Cartmel this year, made the trip to London and told a disciplinary panel the fence staff realised the mistake but considered it was too dangerous to try to remove the fork before the horses reached the fence.
Garratt said the case had caused embarrassment among the staff, who were dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety.
He agreed the course was temporarily unfit for racing but argued the management was not to blame as they employed well-trained responsible staff and the incident was outside their control.
Kelso was fined the minimum £1,000 for the breach, which could have cost a maximum £15,000 punishment.
Explaining the decision to not impose a heavier fine, the panel's verdict was "that this incident was an unforeseeable and isolated incident caused by the momentary carelessness of one of the staff which we are persuaded is unlikely ever to be repeated".
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 17:21:13 GMT
Worcester racecourse was taken to task by a BHA disciplinary panel which described two racecourse stable boxes as looking like "a rubbish tip" at the meeting on October 12.
The incident came to light when Jonjo O'Neill-trained runners were put in a pair of boxes on arrival.
The panel heard the boxes initially appeared to be in a proper state but, when visited a few moments later, the horses were found to be eating food on the ground which had been uncovered by them pawing at the fresh bedding.
When describing the pictures of the boxes, the panel's findings were that "the impression given was that one was looking at a rubbish tip, but that was principally because the bedding used was paper bedding, and that had been pushed aside to reveal the feed and other matter beneath".
The horses were immediately moved to other boxes. The racecourse vet inspected the boxes, concluding that what the horses had been eating looked like cereal foodstuff, which was normal feed for a racehorse, so they were allowed to run.
There was an inquiry on the day and the clerk of the course Libby O'Flaherty said a random check of some of the boxes had been made in the morning.
The panel did not accept the two boxes had been simply overlooked for the statutory cleaning and disinfecting after the previous meeting two weeks earlier.
In imposing a fine of £5,000, the panel found that "it seemed probable that the boxes were not just overlooked in the course of cleaning operations that took place after the meeting on September 29, 2017: they were tended, but only to the extent of putting fresh bedding to cover any matter on the ground which included old feed".
The panel said it had set a £7,000 fine but reduced it as Worcester had made a commitment to make sure there would be no repeat, with staff made fully aware of their responsibilities to clean and disinfect the boxes.
The same meeting also drew criticism for small fields, with drying ground leading to a brace of two-runner races and a three-runner heat.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 17:22:34 GMT
Intimate Art 6.10 Kempton
Some horses simply prefer the all-weather and Intimate Art could just be one of those horses.
Disappointing on turf last time, on which his record is one second from six starts, Intimate Art returns to a surface he has won twice on from three starts (third other outing).
The widest draw hampers his prospects tonight, but his trainer Andrew Balding has had an excellent season and Jason Watson, who has two winners this season, takes off 7lb.
12/1 Intimate Art 6:10 Kempton (AW) Black Prince 7.40 Kempton
Two miles and the all-weather seems to be just what Black Prince wants, with a win and a third from his two starts under such conditions.
The three-year-old was third over hurdles on his debut at the end of October, and returns to the artificial surface tonight off a mark just 3lb higher than his latest success.
Black Prince creeps in at the bottom of the weights for this and looks a big player in the ‘lucky last’.
9/4 Black Prince 7:40 Kempton (AW) 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 20, 2017 17:23:25 GMT
France's revolutionary weight allowance for female jockeys is to receive a spring trim after France Galop reviewed the effects of the first nine months of the measure.
While the full 2kg (4.4lb) allowance will remain for races over jumps, women riding in Flat races from March 1 will be in receipt of a 1.5kg pull in the weights.
France Galop referred to a 165 per cent increase in the number of winners ridden by women, who have accounted for twice as many rides as during the same period in 2016.
The timing of the change – which will coincide with the one-year anniversary of the measure's original introduction – is a blow for Hayley Turner, who will be just days away from returning to action at the end of a three-month suspension imposed by the BHA.
Turner is serving the ban after admitting to having an active betting account when she reapplied for her jockey's licence in August, two years after she had originally quit riding to pursue a career in the media.
Turner cited the introduction of the weight allowance as her prime motivation for returning to the saddle and had ridden ten winners in France before the ban, which is due to expire on March 13.
Turner: "2kg is quite generous"
Britain's most successful female rider admitted in a recent interview with the Racing Post that the exact terms of the allowance might be worth revisiting.
"I think it's great what the French authorities are doing to help the girls, but maybe claiming 2kg [4.4lb] is quite generous," she said on October 26. "Yesterday one of the girls had 4kg [8.8lb] off the horse's back and that might not be fair on some of the lads."
France Galop consulted with professional bodies, including those representing jockeys and trainers, before announcing the amendments, which will also see the total claim for female apprentices capped at 4kg for both codes.
France Galop president Edouard de Rothschild was a prime mover in the introduction of the allowance and said: "Nearly a year on from the inception of this weight allowance for female jockeys, the visibility of these sportswomen has been reinforced.
"France Galop hopes this positive effect will be long-lasting. The measure will therefore be continued while undergoing an evolution which has been widely discussed among racing's stakeholders."
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 20, 2017 21:31:43 GMT
Thursday: going, weather & non-runners Chelmsford (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Light rain STALLS: 6f - Centre; Remainder - Inside Dundalk (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy Exeter GOING: SOFT (GoingStick: Chs 5.5, Hdl 5.6) (Rail movements; R1 & 5 +102y, R6 & 7 +180y) WEATHER: Cloudy Southwell (AW) GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy STALLS: 5f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 1:15 Angel Palanas (1) 2:50 Kaaber (9) Towcester GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) (GoingStick 7.7) WEATHER: Cloudy
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 20, 2017 21:32:25 GMT
Newmarket: David Milnes
Gustavo Fring (1.15 Southwell, nap)
The onetime 2,000 Guineas hope has had his sights lowered considerably in recent weeks and is expected to make it third time lucky on his first fibresand start. The son of Kodiac showed enough when second at Wolverhampton last time to Delilah Park.
4/7 Gustavo Fring 1:15 Southwell (AW) Others to follow Southwell: 11.45 Spinning Melody, 2.55 Ghassedah. Chelmsford: 5.45 Hint Of Gret, 6.15 Artieshow, 6.45 Best Blue, 7.45 Thaqaffa.
Lambourn: James Burn
Casablanca Mix (1.05 Exeter, nap)
A capable mare who was being readied for a Listed race at Warwick that was abandoned last week, so should be primed to go close.
8/11 Casablanca Mix 1:05 Exeter Others to follow Chelmsford: 5.45 Misu Pete, 6.45 Island Court, 7.15 Corked, 7.45 Choral Clan, 8.45 Pulsating. Exeter: 12.35 Floral Bouquet. Southwell: 11.45 Start Seven, 1.45 Montague. Towcester: 12.25 The Bottom Bar, 1.55 Rather Be.
West Country: Tim Mitchell
Siruh Du Lac (1.35 Exeter, nap)
Showed plenty of promise as a juvenile hurdler and off the mark at the second attempt over fences. This is a well-regarded four-year-old who is expected to handle the 6lb rise and follow up.
2/1 Siruh Du Lac 1:35 Exeter Others to follow Exeter: 12.35 Waiheke, 1.05 Shaama Grise, 2.05 Overtown Express, 2.40 Rockpoint, 3.15 Who's My Jockey, 3.45 Point N Shoot. Towcester: 12.25 Awake At Midnight, 1.25 Midnight Magic, 1.55 War Sound, 3.35 Pineapple Rush.
North: Colin Russell
Aleef (8.15 Chelmsford, nap)
On a good mark at present and having run his best race for a while when fourth over C&D last time is fancied to get back on the winning trail.
11/4 Aleef 8:15 Chelmsford (AW) Others to follow Chelmsford: 5.45 Twiggy, 6.15 The British Lion, 6.45 The Jungle Vip, 7.15 Dellaguista, 8.45 Captain Scooby. Southwell: 11.45 Restive, 12.15 Little Pippin, 12.45 Breaking Free, 1.15 Excellent World, 1.45 Our Kid, 2.15 Lean On Pete, 2.50 Kommander Kirkup, 3.25 Pearl Acclaim.
Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Night Of Sin (2.40 Exeter, nap)
A half-brother to Fox Norton, he looks well-treated on the pick of a couple of soft ground wins last season and should strip fitter for his Ascot reappearance.
7/1 Night Of Sin 2:40 Exeter Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Casablanca Mix (1.05 Exeter)
Opened her account over fences in fine style at Huntingdon a month ago and Nicky Henderson's mare can add to her tally.
8/11 Casablanca Mix 1:05 Exeter Longshot: Ed Quigley
Max Do Brazil (2.40 Exeter)
Struggled lately, but the return of blinkers can help. Should handle the ground and remains unexposed off 117.
8/1 Max Do Brazil 2:40 Exeter Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
It’s Two O Clock (4.30 Dundalk)
A good winner over today’s course and five furlong trip on his debut last month, the son of Raven’s Pass can follow up against only three rivals in this nursery. Pat Smullen’s mount gets the vote to confirm placings with Khwarizmi who finished runner-up to him before winning over the course and distance 20 days ago.
11/10 It's Two O Clock 4:30 Dundalk (AW) 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 20, 2017 21:33:04 GMT
Llancillo Lord (Exeter 1.35) had no chance in a novice chase last time but has a realistic shot in handicaps off this mark. Trainer Robert Walford is 6-15 with handicap debutants.
Gavin Cromwell has a 22 per cent strike-rate with his runners in Britain and he sends Why Me (12.45) and Cresendo (2.15) to Southwell. Martin Harley is a positive jockey booking for both.
Trans Express goes for a repeat victory in Exeter’s 2.40 and must have every chance off only 4lb higher. He has since won over course and distance in October, and the placed horses in this last year are all rated much higher now.
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 21, 2017 8:05:03 GMT
EXETER
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.35 Waiheke
1.05 Casablanca Mix
1.35 Siruh Du Lac
2.05 Overtown Express
2.40 Mixchievous
3.15 Who’s My Jockey
3.45 Gonnabegood
GIMCRACK
12.35 Ebonys Encore
1.05 Casablanca Mix
1.35 Siruh Du Lac
2.05 Overtown Express (nb)
2.40 Mixchievous
3.15 Ocean Cove
3.45 Market Road
TOWCESTER
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
12.25 Awake At Midnight
12.55 Some Finish
1.25 Triopas
1.55 Rather Be
2.25 Tommy Rapper
3.00 Kayfleur
3.35 Pineapple Rush
GIMCRACK
12.25 Awake At Midnight
12.55 Normandy King
1.25 Triopas
1.55 War Sound
2.25 Mr Jack
3.00 Kayfleur
3.35 Frizzle
SOUTHWELL
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
11.45 Spinning Melody (nb)
12.15 Satchville Flyer
12.45 Why Me
1.15 Excellent World
1.45 Helen Sherbet
2.15 Lean On Pete
2.50 Ghaseedah (nap)
3.25 Archie Stevens
GIMCRACK
11.45 Spinning Melody
12.15 Satchville Flyer
12.45 Why Me
1.15 Gustavo Fring
1.45 Lina’s Star
2.15 Cresendo
2.50 Viva Verglas
3.25 Sir Harry Collins
CHELMSFORD CITY
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.45 Complicit
6.15 The British Lion
6.45 Natch
7.15 Dellaguista
7.45 Jack Of Diamonds
8.15 Cappananty Con
8.45 Pulsating
GIMCRACK
5.45 Complicit
6.15 Artieshow
6.45 Winds Of Fire
7.15 Titan Goddess
7.45 Thaqaffa
8.15 Cappananty Con (nap)
8.45 La Fortuna
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 21, 2017 8:05:32 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 21, 2017 8:13:14 GMT
Dundalk.
Rock On Dandy (7.30)
Rock On Dandy will make the journey east from Fergal Birrane's Killala, Co Mayo yard seeking a course and distance hat-trick in Thursday's 1m4f handicap.
The three-year-old has won on both his starts since joining Birrane, having previously been trained by Harry Dunlop, and Padraig Beggy, who rode him to his two Dundalk wins, is again on board.
Birrane said on Wednesday: "Rock On Dandy came out of his last win very well and seems to be improving all the time. We're hoping for another big run.
"Padraig has done a brilliant job on him. Last time there was no pace and he had to go on five furlongs out. We'll probably try to settle him in behind the leaders tomorrow."
Rosenborg Rider (5.00)
The Ado McGuinness-trained four-year-old has gone up 8lb in the ratings for this mile handicap following a course victory over seven furlongs just under a fortnight ago.
McGuinness said: "I thought the handicapper was a bit harsh on him, although I could be wrong. The horse is in good form and has a nice draw.
"It looks a bit more competitive than last time but we're expecting a big run."
Miss Mirabeau and Getgo (8.00)
Both three-year-olds are recent arrivals at Keith Clarke's Co Meath yard and will be having their first runs in Ireland.
Miss Mirabeau was acquired for 12,000gns in Newmarket this month, four days after scoring for Sir Mark Prescott at Chelmsford, while Getgo, a Brighton winner for David Lanigan last year, was bought for 9,000gns last month.
Clarke said on Wednesday: "We're still learning about Miss Mirabeau. She isn't the most straightforward but she seems to have loads of ability and hopefully she'll show some of it tomorrow.
"We like Getgo. He won a mile-and-a-half schooling race recently and he's one that will be going hurdling later on."
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 21, 2017 8:14:17 GMT
Reaching a century of starts is an impressive achievement for a racehorse, but to then have the durability and ability to make a double hundred is a feat only a handful of runners can manage.
The latest to join what could be referred to as the 'Steve Smith club' in the current climate is Southwell stalwart General Tufto, whose scheduled 200th start on Thursday will also be his 110th on the Fibresand.
Now 12, 'Tufty' is bidding for a 16th win at Southwell. He was last successful at the track on his 100th start, which came in this race last year.
That victory sparked emotional scenes in the winner's enclosure for trainer Charles Smith, and it will likely be a similar story if the veteran delivers again.
Joey Haynes was aboard for last year's win and is in the saddle again on Thursday.
He said: "I always look forward to riding him. I owe him a lot as he's given me plenty of wins.
"I think he's got every chance. As far as I know he's been going very well so fingers crossed he can do it again."
Most Prolific Runners In Britain
Horse, number of races
Dvinsky 231
Sharp Hat 217
Palacegate Touch 207
*Captain Scooby 205
Jonnie Skull 205
*General Tufto 199
*still active
General Tufto's illustrious career will be recognised by Southwell, with career highlights played on the big screen, while connections are to be presented with a framed montage of his best moments at the track.
Racecourse manager Mark Clayton said: "We're making a bit of a fuss and he'll be on the front page of the racecard.
"His connections are great supporters of Southwell and are genuinely nice guys. We're really happy General Tufto is running here again."
Any punter who fancies a 200 club double on Thursday is in luck, as the other active member, Captain Scooby, who like General Tufto was last successful in December 2016, is due to have his 206th outing at Chelmsford in the evening.
Thursday racecards
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Post by Kimmy on Dec 21, 2017 8:15:41 GMT
Trainer Hughie Morrison will face an anxious wait until Friday morning before learning the result of a BHA inquiry which could impose a career-ending ban.
The independent disciplinary panel sitting in judgement retired at the end of day two to consider the evidence and will inform Morrison and his team of their verdict at 11am, and then the media an hour later.
Morrison theoretically faces disqualification of up to ten years, but his QC Graeme McPherson argued he should avoid all punishment, claiming his client had been a victim of malicious intervention and that "strict liability" and the ensuing penalties that might normally apply in such cases are not appropriate.
Morrison found himself before the BHA at the end of a long-running investigation that began when his filly Our Little Sister tested positive for the steroid nandrolone after finishing last at Wolverhampton on January 14.
He was made aware of the result on February 3 and has ever since vigorously denied any part in the administration of the drug, which both sides agreed can have been administered only by intramuscular injection within a window of opportunity of around a month before the Wolverhampton race.
McPherson criticised the investigation for its failure to preserve all evidence from the outset – a reference in part to a failure to investigate stable CCTV from her outing at Southwell on January 2 before it was recorded over; for the investigators' closed minds; and for their failure to consider what further investigations they might undertake and what other intelligence there might be out there.
Significant mitigation
He argued strenuously for no penalty at all but said that if the panel did impose one they should consider the significant mitigation.
McPherson said he would not argue against disqualification "if the panel concludes that on the balance of probability Mr Morrison pressed the plunger", but he argued the trainer had "taken all reasonable measures" regarding the security of the filly, both at his stables and at the racecourse, and submitted that "a fine of around £1,000 is the way forward" if any penalty is to be imposed, pointing to the signification mitigation.
He said: "In mitigation you have Mr Morrison's exemplary record, which is without blemish over 25 years, you have his extraordinary character references, and his co-operation throughout the investigation". That co-operation which McPherson said went far beyond what might normally be expected as Morrison "pushed the investigation himself and spent a vast amount of money trying to get to the bottom of who was behind it".
He added that the consequences of disqualification would be "catastrophic", not just for Morrison and his family but for his staff and community.
Day two had begun with McPherson's lengthy cross-examination of Tim Miller, the leader of the BHA's investigating officers, which sought to cast doubt on the thoroughness of his investigations and on security at the racecourse stables at Southwell on January 2, and established from Miller that Morrison had "opened up his life" to him in terms of access to telephone records and emails.
Morrison gave evidence to the panel in two parts, the first a somewhat uncomfortable session before lunch when he confirmed that in addition to offering a £10,000 reward for information he had employed a former detective chief inspector as a private investigator in "a bid to find the culprit".
He denied he had instructed him to send an email, that the BHA's counsel Philip Evans described as "threatening", to the trainer named on day one as having been heard to say she would "get at" Our Little Sister.
State of agitation
He explained his state of agitation on the morning of the BHA's investigation team's dawn visit on February 3, comparing it to "going through Bangkok airport and being arrested with Class A drugs in your bag".
Morrison was much more assured in the afternoon session, and when Evans suggested reasons why he, or a member of his staff, might have given the filly a steroid – a known performance enhancer – he argued he had no feasible motive whatsoever, adding "it would be professional suicide to run her three times knowing she had it in her system" and that he would "need to go off with the men in white coats", so strict is the BHA's anti-doping stance.
Evans claimed Morrison had adopted a "scattergun approach" to his denial and had sought to blame the BHA from day one, yet the BHA had "followed up almost every avenue of inquiry" and that its investigation had been "very thorough".
He argued the BHA did not have to prove guilt as the rule Morrison was charged under was "a strict liability offence". He added that "the panel does not need to know the how, when or why", rather it had to ask itself: "Am I satisfied that Morrison has proved this was a malicious intervention?"
Morrison’s punishment will hinge on how the panel interprets the evidence and the rules that were applied to the recent high-profile Philip Hobbs case, in which Hobbs escaped a penalty for a medication infringement.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 21, 2017 10:16:19 GMT
in today's sporting life............... Anita Chambers fancies Overtown Express to deliver at Exeter on Thursday and she has a tip for every race in the UK and Ireland. Overtown Express kicked off his campaign with an impressive success at Newbury at the start of December and he can follow up in the 188Bet Graduation Chase at Exeter. He turned what appeared to be a competitive heat into a 10-length procession and his jumping seemed to be pretty sound despite having looked a bit shaky on occasion previously. That was a decent effort on his first start since being well beaten in a Grade Two heat back in February and a 9lb hike in the ratings reflects the value of that performance. War Sound was no match for Brain Power at Kempton last time but should find the toteexacta Novices' Chase at Towcester an easier test. Cappananty Con has been in fine form in recent weeks and he can defy a career-high mark of 80 to win the Bet totetrifecta At Betfred.com Handicap at Chelmsford. The three-year-old has a bit of a mixed profile, having kicked off the year in very promising style before slightly going off the boil on a couple of occasions in the summer before enjoying a little break. He likely needed his first couple of runs back in October, but he showed significant improvement to hit the frame at Kempton last month before claiming his third career win at Chelmsford last time out. Cappananty Con won a reasonable handicap two weeks ago, racing prominently before finding plenty in the closing stages to win by three-quarters of a length. He has been raised 3lb for that success but appears to still have a little in the locker and is definitely one for the shortlist here. Winds Of Fire put up no kind of show on his racecourse bow but should be given another chance in the Weatherbys General Stud Book Online EBF Maiden Stakes. Sent off favourite on his first attempt at Wolverhampton, Charlie Appleby's charge ran very green indeed, racing in spurts before eventually finishing seventh, beaten over 12 lengths. He looks capable of a far better performance with that bit of match practice under his belt. Cresendo cost just 3,000 guineas at the autumn sales and he can give Gavin Cromwell an immediate return on his first start in the Betway Stayers Handicap at Southwell. Previously trained by Jim Bolger, Cresendo has shown glimpses of ability and can make use of the fact he races off his lowest mark for a while. Sporting Life Suggestions CHELMSFORD: 5.45 Complicit, 6.15 Artieshow, 6.45 Winds Of Fire, 7.15 Titan Goddess, 7.45 Thaqaffa, 8.15 CAPPANANTY CON (NAP), 8.45 La Fortuna. DUNDALK: 4.30 It's Two O Clock, 5.00 Excelli, 5.30 Rising Eagle, 6.00 Dhafeera, 6.30 Timia, 7.00 Strategic Force, 7.30 Alcander, 8.00 French Mix. EXETER: 12.35 Ebonys Encore, 1.05 Casablanca Mix, 1.35 Siruh Du Lac, 2.05 Overtown Express, 2.40 Mixchevious, 3.15 Ocean Cove, 3.45 Market Road. SOUTHWELL: 11.45 Spinning Melody, 12.15 Satchville Flyer, 12.45 Why Me, 1.15 Gustavo Fring, 1.45 Lina's Star, 2.15 Cresendo, 2.50 Viva Verglas, 3.25 Sir Harry Collins. TOWCESTER: 12.25 Awake At Midnight, 12.55 Normandy King, 1.25 Triopas, 1.55 War Sound, 2.25 Mr Jack, 3.00 Kayfleur, 3.35 Frizzle. DOUBLE: Cappananty Con and Overtown Express.
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Post by dennisg on Dec 21, 2017 10:18:30 GMT
Dan Skelton's Ch'Tibello will not make the journey to Ireland over Christmas for the Ryanair Hurdle at Leopardstown on December 29. The six-year-old made a fine reappearance at Cheltenham last weekend when beaten three lengths into fourth by My Tent Or Yours in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham. He remained in contention for the Grade One and a clash with former champion hurdler Faugheen at Wednesday's forfeit stage but a minor setback has ruled him out. Part-owner Ian Marmion tweeted: "Despite being left in yesterday Ch'Tibello won't run @leopardstownrc in The Ryanair. A small cut on his leg meant a few days box rest and you'd need to be in the full of your health going over there."
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