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Post by Kimmy on Jan 3, 2018 9:33:31 GMT
Market movers
1.00 Musselburgh - Silver Bullion 9-1 (from 12)
2.20 Ludlow - Tree Of Liberty 14-1 (from 20)
2.40 Southwell - Zaeem 12-1 (from 14)
7.10 Wolverhampton - Sanam 15-2 (from 9)
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 3, 2018 9:34:04 GMT
Wednesday: going, weather & non-runners Ludlow GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places on hurdle course) (GoingStick 5.2) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 2:20 Exitas (1) 3:20 Cougar's Gold (2) 3:50 The Imitation Game (10)Pedulia Alba (5)Sally Can't Wait (7) Musselburgh GOING: GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) (GoingStick 6.1) (Rail movements: R1, 3, 5 & 6 +8y, R2 & 4 +14y) WEATHER: Showers NON RUNNERS: 3:00 Trust Thomas (7) 3:30 Thepensionfund (7) Southwell (AW) GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy STALLS: 5f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 3:40 Naralsaif (13) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 4:40 Three Majors (4) 5:10 Joey's Destiny (11)
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 3, 2018 20:39:44 GMT
Southwell, 03 Jan 18 Fixture Note An enquiry was held adjourned from race 7 at Southwell on 1 January 2018 into the use of the whip by Robert Winston, the rider of SWOT, placed second, from 2 furlongs out. Having heard his evidence and viewed recordings of the incident, the Stewards found he had not breached the Rules. Race 2 - 1:10pm THE BETWAY MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) An enquiry was held into the circumstances surrounding the change of jockey from Ryan Powell to Tom Eaves, on SASHEEDA, trained by Lisa Williamson. The trainer, the valet, the Clerk of the Scales and Tom Eaves were interviewed. Having heard their evidence, the matter was referred to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
Permission was given for WHITMEL to go early and be led to post.
Going into the first bend, SASHEEDA, unplaced, hung right causing FABELLA BERE (FR), placed fourth, to shift right and clip the heels of BOSTONIAN, unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that FABELLA BERE (FR) was hampered on the first bend and Andrew Crook reported that LISKEARD, unplaced, had a breathing problem.
Race 3 - 1:40pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) TELLOVOI (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start, and permission was given for the gelding to go early to post.
Following the race, Fran Berry reported that AWESOME ALLAN (IRE), placed eighth of eight, stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination revealed the gelding to be slightly lame on its right fore.
Race 4 - 2:10pm THE BETWAY BEST ODDS GUARANTEED PLUS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for ROCKING RUDOLPH (USA) to go early to post.
Race 5 - 2:40pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Ryan Timby, the rider of BOUCLIER (IRE), was slow to remove the blindfold resulting in his horse being slow to start. After being interviewed and shown recordings of the incident, Timby’s explanation that the hood had been tucked tightly into BOUCLIER (IRE)’s bridle and it had taken him two attempts to remove it was noted. Being a 7lb claimer, Timby was offered accompaniment in the enquiry, but declined.
Race 6 - 3:10pm THE sunbets.co.uk TOP PRICE ON ALL FAVOURITES CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6) Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that ESSENTIAL, placed third, hung left in the straight and Keelan Baker reported that VIVAT REX (IRE), placed sixth of six, was never travelling and hung right from the final bend. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of VIVAT REX (IRE) during routine testing, revealed the gelding had bled from the nose.
Race 7 - 3:40pm THE sunbets.co.uk DOWNLOAD THE APP HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) MR POTTER wore earplugs which were removed at the start and the gelding was given permission to go early to post.
Approaching the final furlong, the winner, MEANDMYSHADOW edged left giving a bump to PRINCESS WAY (IRE), placed sixth, which in turn gave a slight bump to FORTINBRASS (IRE), placed fifth, 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 MEANDMYSHADOW.
Inside the final furlong, BIG AMIGO (IRE), placed second, edged right onto FORTINBRASS (IRE) which in turn caused the rider of PRINCESS WAY (IRE) to take a slight check but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved and that it had not improved the placing of BIG AMIGO (IRE). View Stewards report Ludlow, 03 Jan 18 Fixture Note Concerns were raised by the riders that, after a runner in the first race ran out through the wing of the final flight in the back straight, they felt the flight, with only five hurdles, was not angled properly. The Stewards consulted with the Clerk of the Course and ordered that this obstacle should be omitted for all hurdle races. They subsequently interviewed the Clerk of the Course in the presence of Richard Johnson. They noted his explanation that, due to the heavy ground, the flight had been pushed to the outside of the track to allow for 5 metres of by-passing on the inside. This had made the outside wing appear straighter. Race 2 - 1:50pm THE JUBILEE RESTAURANT MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race Warren Greatrex reported that PECULIAR PLACES (IRE), which was pulled up, was unsuited by the soft, heavy in places, ground and would prefer a faster surface.
Race 3 - 2:20pm THE LUDLOW CLUB STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 3) An enquiry was held to consider why the running rail at the end of the canter down, on the inside of the track, was not in place as the runners came past on the first circuit. Having interviewed the Clerk of the Course the Stewards forwarded a report to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
Following the race Charlie Deutsch reported that MASTER OF VERSE (IRE), placed fifth, ran too freely.
Race 6 - 3:50pm THE £235 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MARES' STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4) Kim Bailey was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of LADY OF THE NIGHT did not comply with the Rules of Racing.
Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that LADY OF THE NIGHT, placed third, lost its left fore shoe. View Stewards report Musselburgh, 03 Jan 18 Race 1 - 1:00pm THE WISE BETTING AT racinguk.com MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Prior to this race, George Bewley the trainer of OUTBACK BLUE, was asked to explain the reason why he was running the gelding here at Musselburgh on going described as Good to Soft, Soft in Places, having declared the gelding a non-runner at Catterick 19 December 2017 on going with the same official description. Bewley’s explanation was noted that in his opinion there was still frost in the ground at Catterick, and he therefore deemed it to be unsuitable for OUTBACK BLUE.
The winner, THE ROAD HOME (IRE), appeared to show an improvement in form compared with its previous run at Wetherby on 29 November 2017, where the gelding finished eighth of eleven beaten 34 lengths. Lucinda Russell’s explanation was noted that the gelding may have appreciated the better ground on this occasion. THE ROAD HOME (IRE) was ordered to be routine tested.
The Veterinary Officer reported that WEATHER FRONT (USA), unplaced, had lost its left front shoe.
Race 2 - 1:30pm THE ALEX DONALDSON MEMORIAL STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 4) The Veterinary Officer reported that BOY'S ON TOUR (IRE), placed fourth, had lost its right fore shoe.
Race 3 - 2:00pm THE ALL NEW racinguk.com HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for NENDRUM (IRE) to go to post early.
Following the race; Iain Jardine reported that KING OF ARAGON (IRE), which was pulled up, had a breathing problem. Alain Cawley reported that RHYTHM OF SOUND (IRE), unplaced, made a bad mistake 5 out and weakened quickly approaching 2 out. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. Dale Irving reported that MAGISTRAL, which was pulled up, lost its action. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 2:30pm THE ISN'T IT WISER TO BET AT racinguk.com HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Prior to this race, the representative of Tim Vaughan was asked to explain the reason why they were running SHOW’S OVER (IRE) here at Musselburgh on ground described as Good to Soft, Soft in places, having declared the gelding a non-runner at Huntingdon 26 December 2017 on going with the same official description. The representative explained that they came to Musselburgh in search of some better ground, and although these are not ideal conditions for the gelding, due to softer ground at other tracks and a lack of opportunities elsewhere, they decided SHOW’S OVER (IRE) should take his chance.
Following the race; Kaine Wood reported that RANDY PIKE (IRE), placed sixth, had a breathing problem. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination during routine testing found the gelding to be lame left hind. A E Lynch reported that DE DANU'S BACH (IRE), placed fifth, jumped left throughout.
Race 6 - 3:30pm THE WATCH RACE REPLAYS AT racinguk.com STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) It was noted that on the bend entering the back straight, KEEPINUPWITDJONES, placed fourth, shifted slightly right moving the winner, PAPER PROMISE (IRE), slightly right, which resulted in SKYE CHIEF, placed second, to be short of room on the rail. However, after viewing a recording of the incident it was found that it did not involve a riding offence. View Stewards report Wolverhampton, 03 Jan 18 Race 1 - 4:10pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Approaching the first bend, the winner, BREAKING FREE, hung right at the same time as SAM THE REBEL, unplaced, edged marginally left causing both OOR JOCK (IRE), placed fourth, and CLASSICAL FLYER, unplaced, to be tightened for room, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Approximately one furlong out, TAKE THIS WALTZ, unplaced, shifted quickly right away from the whip and hampered NIGHT SHADOW, placed eighth, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Harry Burns reported that FRANGARRY (IRE), placed seventh, stumbled badly leaving the stalls causing him to lose his left iron for approximately half a furlong. Eoin Walsh reported that SAM THE REBEL, unplaced, ran too free and hung right. Cam Hardie reported that NIGHT SHADOW, placed eighth, was denied a clear run.
Race 2 - 4:40pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) An enquiry was held to consider interference on the first bend when the winner, SPARE PARTS (IRE), ridden by Rossa Ryan interfered with SUNNYSIDE BOB (IRE), placed fifth, ridden by Faye McManoman, which in turn interfered with BILLYFAIRPLAY, placed fourth, ridden by Ross Coakley. Being a 7lb claimer, McManoman was offered accompaniment in the enquiry, but declined. Ryan was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he had allowed his mount to drift left towards the rail when insufficiently clear of SUNNYSIDE BOB (IRE), tightening that horse across the running of BILLYFAIRPLAY (IRE) which had to be checked.
Race 3 - 5:10pm THE FOLLOW SUN BETS ON TWITTER HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BRITISH EMBASSY (IRE) to be led to post early.
Following the race Daniel Muscutt reported that AIR OF YORK (IRE), placed fourth, hung right throughout. Dougie Costello reported that DE LITTLE ENGINE (IRE), placed eighth, moved poorly in the home straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 5:40pm THE BET AND WATCH AT sunbets.co.uk SELLING STAKES (CLASS 6) Approximately one furlong out, BEAUDEN BARRETT, placed third, hung left at the same time as ACRUX, placed fifth, edged slightly right causing OUTER SPACE, placed fourth, to be steadied when crowded for room, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Race 5 - 6:10pm THE 32Red.com NOVICE MEDIAN AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 5) THAT’S SO COOL (IRE), unplaced, jumped awkwardly from the stalls and shifted sharply right-handed bumping heavily with PILGRIM SOUL, placed third, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Daniel Muscutt reported that JUST RIGHT, unplaced, raced greenly in the early stages. Tom Marquand reported that CORNISH POINT (IRE), unplaced, hung badly left and was unsteerable. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 6 - 6:40pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BERLUSCA (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race Callum Shepherd reported that VALLEY OF LIGHT, placed sixth, hung right throughout. Dougie Costello reported that BERLUSCA (IRE), placed second, hung left. Oisin Murphy reported that ARCHIPELIGO, unplaced, was denied a clear run for some distance approaching the 2 furlong marker. The Veterinary Officer reported that HEAD HIGH (IRE), unplaced, finished lame left fore.
Race 7 - 7:10pm THE BETWAY MIDDLE APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Following the race Aled Beech reported that NOUVELLE ERE, placed eighth, was never travelling. Jane Elliott reported that INFINITI (IRE), unplaced, stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 3, 2018 20:43:58 GMT
The most successful trainers on this side of the Atlantic to pass on during 2017 were Peter Walwyn, Mercy Rimell, Mary Reveley and Geoff Wragg.
Walwyn, who died in December aged 84, was champion trainer twice and will be remembered above all for Grundy, the dual Derby winner who won the 'Race of the Century', the 1975 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
His two championship years coincided with the career of Grundy, champion two-year-old in 1974 and world champion in 1975, when the flashy chestnut won the Derby and Irish Derby, and beat Bustino in their epic encounter at Ascot.
Walwyn, who had trained dual champion filly Humble Duty, did not sustain that level of success but remained a significant force at his Lambourn base until his retirement in 1999 after a 40-year career.
His success was complemented by the endearing and volatile eccentricity that resulted in several Basil Fawlty-type fallings-out and a host of colourful stories.
Mercy Rimell, who died in July aged 98, spent most of her career as assistant to her husband, the great trainer Fred Rimell, and after his death this formidable lady held the licence with considerable success.
She became the first woman to train a Champion Hurdle winner when Gaye Brief triumphed in 1983, and she also had his brother, Stayers' Hurdle winner Gaye Chance.
Mary Reveley, 77, was the winningmost woman trainer of all time in Britain with 2,010 victories, but none of them came at the Cheltenham Festival or in a Group race on the Flat.
Nevertheless, the self-effacing Lingdale handler was among the top dual-purpose trainers of recent years, with Mellottie and Cab On Target her stars.
Geoff Wragg, 87, won the Derby with Teenoso in 1983, his first season as a trainer after succeeding his father, Harry Wragg, at Abington Place, Newmarket.
Teenoso, Lester Piggott's ninth and last Derby winner, also won the King George as a four-year-old and was the best horse Wragg ever had. He later trained champion filly Marling and another King George winner, Pentire.
David Nicholls, who died aged 61, rode the remarkable Soba to all her 11 wins in 1982 and became a specialist trainer of sprinters, including dual Group 1 winners Continent and Regal Parade. He landed the Ayr Gold Cup six times.
We also lost Padge Berry (Bannow Rambler), Patrick Haslam (Kinnaird), John Brockbank (A Kinsman), Alan Swinbank (Collier Hill), Richard Casey (Vague Shot) and perennial Norwegian champion Arnfinn Lund.
Jockeys
The ranks of former jockeys lost Irish champions Martin Molony, Tommy Carberry, Johnny Roe and Buster Parnell, Red Rum's jockey Brian Fletcher, and Australian Hall of Fame members Edgar Britt and Jack Purtell.
Martin Molony, who died in July aged 91, was probably the greatest dual-purpose jockey of all time and amonguk the ten greatest jump jockeys – a true legend.
He was the overall champion (Flat and jumps combined) in Ireland for the last six years of his career (1946-51) and, from his Irish base, was runner-up to his elder brother Tim in the British jump jockeys' table in 1949-50.
His strength in a finish won him the 1951 Cheltenham Gold Cup on Silver Fame by a short head, and a month later he came third in the Derby on Signal Box.
Molony rode three Irish Classic winners and three Irish Grand National winners, landed the Irish Cesarewitch twice on Hatton's Grace, and would have achieved even more had he not suffered a career-ending fall at the age of 26.
Tommy Carberry, 75, who died two days after Molony, was champion jump jockey four times, rode L'Escargot to his two Cheltenham Gold Cup wins (1970, '71) and his Grand National victory over Red Rum in 1975, and won a third Gold Cup on Ten Up.
He also won the Grand National as a trainer with Bobbyjo in 1999 and founded a riding dynasty, with four of his children forging successful careers.
Brian Fletcher, who died in January aged 69, rode Red Rum to his first two Grand National victories in 1973 and 1974, although he later fell out with trainer Ginger McCain.
He had already won the race on Red Alligator in 1968 and was nearly champion jockey that season, finishing only five wins behind Josh Gifford.
Johnny Roe, 79, was Ireland's champion jockey on the Flat nine times between 1963 and 1974, and rode Roberto in Ireland when stable jockey to Vincent O'Brien.
He rode one British Classic winner, Nocturnal Spree, but neither he nor 1969 champion Buster Parnell, who died at 83, was a top international jockey.
The longevity stakes was won by Edgar Britt, who died aged 103 in Queensland in January.
This Australian rode in Britain for 15 years, and in 1948 was runner-up to Gordon Richards in the jockeys' table and partnered his best mount, Black Tarquin, to win the St Leger. His other Classic winners included Sayajirao, Musidora and Nearula.
Jack Purtell, 95, was champion jockey seven times in Melbourne and rode three Melbourne Cup winners including Rising Fast. He was retained by Vincent O'Brien when winning the Oaks on Long Look in 1965.
We also lost Harry Sprague, who won the 1956 Champion Hurdle on Doorknocker, Frank 'Bonky' Nash, who landed two Champion Chases on Drinny's Double, Clive Bailey (Official), John Shortt (Space Trucker), champion apprentice Brian Lee, and Brian Procter, long-time work-rider for Dick Hern.
US racing said farewell to Kim Rice, who set a world record for a woman jockey of 231 wins in 1975 (the current record is 368 by Julie Krone), and Grade 1-winning rider Diane Nelson.
US trainers
Two US Hall of Fame trainers, Jack Van Berg and LeRoy Jolley, died last month.
Van Berg, 81, once held the trainers' world records for the most wins in a career and the most in one year, and is best remembered for Alysheba.
The Nebraska native was notable for quantity rather than quality of winners, but Alysheba proved a rare exception by triumphing in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness in 1987. The colt clinched Horse of the Year honours in 1988 by taking the Breeders' Cup Classic.
Van Berg's score of 496 wins in 1976 stood as a world record for 28 years, and he was also the world's winningmost trainer of all time from 1981 until the current career record-holder, Dale Baird, surpassed him in 1990. His final score was 6,523.
LeRoy Jolley, 79, trained Kentucky Derby winners Foolish Pleasure and the filly Genuine Risk. He also had Manila, perhaps the best turf specialist ever trained in America and victorious in the Breeders' Cup Turf in which Dancing Brave came fourth in 1986.
US racing also lost Lynn Whiting, who won the Kentucky Derby with Lil E Tee, and David Whiteley, who trained female champions Revidere, Waya and Just A Game, and also Coastal, who beat Spectacular Bid in the 1979 Belmont Stakes.
Randy Rouse, 100, who died on April 7, was well known in US steeplechasing circles and, at 99, became the oldest trainer to win any race under rules when Hishi Soar scored at Foxfield, Virginia in April 2016.
Owners
Secretariat's co-owner Penny Chenery, Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning owners the Marquesa de Moratalla and Alan and Ann Potts, and dual Kentucky Derby winner Beverly Lewis have all died in the last 12 months.
The death that resonated most with the US public was that of Penny Chenery, who with her siblings owned Secretariat, America's greatest champion.
They also owned Riva Ridge, the 1972 Kentucky Derby winner, and she was the family spokeswoman during Secretariat's awesome Triple Crown campaign in 1973.
With charm and dignity, Mrs Chenery maintained a high profile for the rest of her long life – she died in September aged 95 – as keeper of the flame for her great champion, an advocate for equine-welfare causes, and a goodwill ambassador for the sport.
The first lady of American racing was portrayed by Diane Lane in the 2010 Disney film Secretariat.
APRH The Marquesa de Moratalla, 87, a Spaniard who was among the richest women in the world, owned The Fellow, who won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1994 after two short-head defeats in the race, and First Gold, the champion chaser of 2000-01.
Her most remarkable horse was Ubu, who achieved a Dawn Run-type double in the French Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup equivalents.
Alan and Ann Potts won the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Sizing John in March, but within eight months husband and wife had both died. They also owned Sizing Europe, the 2011 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner.
Beverly Lewis and her husband Bob won the Kentucky Derby with both Silver Charm and Horse of the Year Charismatic.
We also lost Champion Hurdle-winning owners Tony Geake (Beech Road) and Ernie Pick (Alderbrook), John Sumner (Royal Marshal, Dublin Flyer), Tony Durkan (Anaglogs Daughter), David Stoddart (Party Politics), Robin Eliot (Deep Sensation), John Pearce (Arcadian Heights) and centenarian Jack Fisher (Katies). Top breeders June McKnight (Alleged) and Tom Gentry (Royal Academy) also died.
The departed owners who were famous outside racing included actor Sir John Hurt, ex-Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, former BBC chairman Sir Christopher Bland, playwright and actor Sam Shepard, and 1970s pop singer and heart-throb David Cassidy, co-owner of Sweet Vendetta, who won the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (the fillies' Preakness) in 2008.
We also lost founding Racing Post chairman Sir Gordon Brunton, Goodwood owner the Duke of Richmond, handicappers Christopher Mordaunt and Noel O'Brien, and former executives Ian de Wesselow (Raceform), Graham Parr (Arena Leisure), John Cameron-Hayes (RCA) and Tim Riley (Cartmel).
Terry Downes, world middleweight boxing champion in the early 1960s, was co-owner of a chain of betting shops until selling them to William Hill.
Racecourse deaths
Amateur rider James McNeile, stalls handler Steve Yarborough and groom Ken Dooley all suffered fatal injuries on the racecourse.
McNeile, 57, a financial adviser and point-to-point rider, died on April 2, the day after his mount threw him when running into the wing of a fence at Larkhill. His brother, Peter, used to be clerk of the course at Kempton.
Jame John Beasley Steve Yarborough, 60, was a popular stalls-handler team leader who was run over by the stalls at Haydock on July 21. The rest of the card was abandoned.
Stalls handlers are among racing's unsung heroes who keep the show on the road, and although they do a dangerous job, this was the first fatality since starting stalls were introduced in Britain in 1965.
The hazards met by racing's workforce were further emphasised at Kempton on October 14 when Ken Dooley, 57, who worked for Amanda Perrett, received fatal injuries when kicked in the head by a horse in the racecourse stables.
Further afield, two more jockeys were killed in race-riding falls. Darren Jones was thrown from his mount at a country meeting at Warialda, New South Wales on April 8, and Anthony Deau, a French jockey prominent in Arabian racing, suffered fatal injuries at Mons in Belgium on October 8.
January
Gordon Price 85 Trainer of Shadey Dove & Stans Pride
Brian Fletcher 69 Rider of Red Alligator & Red Rum
John Pearce 98 Owner of Arcadian Heights & Dragon Dancer
Padge Berry 90 Trainer of Bannow Rambler & More Scotch
Tony Hobbs 88 Former Minehead permit-holder
Gordon Cramp 83 Former jump jockey
Nick Ayliffe 82 Former Minehead trainer
Prof. Bernhard von Schubert 65 Joint-owner of Gestut Ebbesloh
Christopher Mordaunt 82 Senior jumps handicapper 1983-98
Ernie Pick 73 Owner of Alderbrook
Sir John Hurt 77 Actor & racehorse owner
Edgar Britt 103 Australian Hall of Fame jockey
Sir Christopher Bland 78 Former owner with Richard Gibson
Bill Mooney 69 US racing historian
February
Charles Radclyffe 97 Developer of potential jumpers
Jim Mitchell 86 Former owner of Beechgrove Stud
Robin Eliot 74 Owner of Arctic Call & Deep Sensation
Tony Geake 80 Owner of Killwarren & Beech Road
Eric Tyner 94 Former Kinsale trainer
John Shortt 53 Rider of Dance Beat & Space Trucker
June McKnight 98 Breeder of Alleged & Tong
Tim Finch 81 Former Norwich trainer
Diana Winter 83 Widow of Fred Winter
Steven Muldoon 53 Rider of Sea Pigeon
Mary 'Bay' Schiffer 102 Joint-owner of Double Discount
Brian Procter 75 Former work-rider for Dick Hern
Ted Powell 74 Breeder & trainer of Hello Mister
March
John Powney 87 Former Newmarket trainer
John Cameron-Hayes 91 RCA chief executive 1978-89
Clive Bailey 70 Rider of Salviati & Official
Jim Leigh 82 Trainer of Eagle's Nest & On Tiptoes
Jack Purtell 95 Australian Hall of Fame jockey
Hubertus Fanelsa 72 Former Bremen trainer
Arnfinn Lund 81 Former champion trainer in Norway
David Stoddart 79 Owner of Private Views & Party Politics
April
Richard Casey 70 Trainer of Vague Shot & Petrullo
James McNeile 57 Point-to-point rider
Randy Rouse 100 Virginia steeplechase trainer
Lady Herries of Terregles 76 Owner of Castle Courageous
Graham Parr 67 Co-founder of Arena Leisure
Lynn Whiting 77 Trainer of At The Threshold & Lil E Tee
Johnny Roe 79 Nine-time champion jockey
John Brockbank 89 Owner-trainer of A Kinsman
Melvyn Leach 72 Former Newark trainer
May
Paul Arnold 76 Bloodstock agent
Lord Soulsby 90 Ex-chairman of Levy Board veterinary committee
Alan Swinbank 72 Trainer of Collier Hill & Formal Decree
Lady Jane Gillespie 55 Tyrone trainer
Tony Power 89 Former Irish Press journalist
Sir Gordon Brunton 95 Founding chairman of the Racing Post
June
David Nicholls 61 Trainer of Continent & Regal Parade
Manny Azpurua 88 Trainer of Nightmare Affair & Social Inclusion
John Sumner 94 Owner of Royal Marshal & Dublin Flyer
Johnnie Lewis 80 Former BBA vice-chairman
Kevin Mercer 67 Co-owner of Usk Valley Farm
July
Lord Sandberg 90 Chairman of Hong Kong Jockey Club 1981-86
Bob Blumberg 70 Joint-owner of Mirjan & Freetown
Marvin Little 79 Breeder of Hansel & Kinsale King
Diane Nelson 51 Rider of Its Acedemic & Acey Deucey
Mercy Rimell 98 Trainer of Gaye Brief & Gaye Chance
Martin Molony 91 Six-time champion jockey
Tommy Carberry 75 Four-time champion jump jockey
David Wintle 77 Trainer of Yule Log & Relkisha
Steve Yarborough 60 Starting-stalls handler
Sam Shepard 73 Playwright, actor & breeder
August
Leonard Lavin 97 Owner of Glen Hill Farm
David Whiteley 72 Trainer of Revidere & Waya
Jonathan Fitzpatrick 23 Manager of Keatingstown Stud
Ann Potts 69 Joint-owner of Sizing Europe & Sizing John
James Osborne 68 Former chairman at Punchestown
Tommy Craig 81 Trainer of Goldhill's Pride & Tangles Brother
Alec Forbes 41 Rider of Highland Night & Val De Ra
Kim Rice Wingo 60 Leading US woman jockey 1975
September
Duke of Richmond and Gordon 87 Owner of Goodwood racecourse
Glen Swire 75 Co-owner of Pastoral Pursuits
Kent Stirling 72 Trainer of Nijinsky's Secret
Tim Riley 88 Former clerk of the course at Cartmel
Lord Cochrane of Cults 90 Owner with Nick Alexander
Jack Fisher 100 Joint-owner of Royal Heroine & Katies
Richard Watson 91 Joint-owner of Manor Farm Stud
Geoff Wragg 87 Trainer of Teenoso & Pentire
Penny Chenery 95 Co-owner-breeder of Secretariat
Buster Parnell 83 Champion jockey 1969
Harry Sprague 97 Rider of Doorknocker & Done Up
October
Tommy Barnes 87 Rider of Raes Gill & Wyndburgh
Liam Cosgrave 97 Turf Club member
Ian de Wesselow 86 Managing director of Raceform 1960-94
Terry Downes 81 Former boxer & bookmaker
Patrick Haslam 69 Trainer of Godstone & Kinnaird
Beverly Lewis 90 Joint-owner of Silver Charm & Charismatic
Dr Robin Kerr 83 Former steward at Sedgefield & Redcar
Mary Reveley 77 Trainer of Mellottie & Cab On Target
Tom Gentry 80 Breeder of Terlingua & Royal Academy
Jill Leek 70 Co-owner of Godfrey Street
November
Peggy Hagan 89 Owner of Balnaslow
Tony Durkan Owner of Anaglogs Daughter
Martin Densham 66 Principal of Sunderlands bookmakers
Willie Patton 90 Former Antrim trainer
Michael Banks 78 Former chairman at Huntingdon
Sir Richard Hardy Bt 72 Joint-owner of Solo Flight
Alan Potts 80 Joint-owner of Sizing Europe & Sizing John
Robert Courtney 96 Owner of Crestfield Farm
Gillon Aitken 84 Former stud manager at Warren Stud
David Cassidy 67 Singer & racehorse owner
Maria O'Grady 54 Wife of Edward O'Grady
Marquesa de Moratalla 87 Owner of The Fellow & Ubu
Pat Densham 95 Founder of Sunderlands bookmakers 1946
December
Sir John Cotterell Bt 82 Jockey Club member
Charles Cella 81 President of Oaklawn Park
Peter Walwyn 84 Champion trainer 1974 & 1975
Frank 'Bonky' Nash 79 Rider of Drinny's Double
Brian Lee 76 Champion apprentice 1961
LeRoy Jolley 79 US Hall of Fame trainer
Noel O'Brien 57 Senior jumps handicapper
Brian Murray 85 Former Malton trainer
Jack Van Berg 81 US Hall of Fame trainer
Need help with any aspect of rac
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 3, 2018 20:52:59 GMT
There were chaotic scenes at Pau in south-west France on Wednesday as seven jockeys in the claiming hurdle took the wrong course, leading stewards to void the race and dish out 15-day bans to all involved.
Freddie Mitchell was among the seven riders to head out on to the final circuit of the Prix de Morlass who failed to take the correct outer track.
There appeared to be a difference of opinion between the two jockeys leading the race, with Thomas Henderson – a former champion apprentice on the Flat – heading towards the outer, while Adrien Fouchet, along with the majority of the field, stuck to the inner.
Mitchell, who is spending a second winter in Pau having joined the upwardly mobile yard of Hector de Lageneste, was sitting third aboard the William Menuet-trained Hannou Pol Avenue when the field incorrectly went inside the designated cone before taking the first fence away from the stands.
"I was aware what had happened straight away," said Mitchell. "My instructions were to follow Thomas and to stick out wide because the ground is very heavy at the moment.
"We went past the stands and Thomas hung left. I stayed out with him but – although it's no excuse because I know the track well – when five lads stay inside and two of you have gone left, it's quite hard in the heat of the moment."
One by one the riders realised their errors and pulled their mounts up in the back straight, although Fouchet didn't finally become aware that he was the last left going until turning into the home straight.
"We should have known and, even though my horse was 50-1 it's the first time I've got booed cantering back," reported Mitchell, who first went to France to ride for Guy Cherel but lost his place in the pecking order there are after missing several months through injury.
"It's the first and definitely the last time something like this has happened. Luckily I'm with a really good boss [Lageneste] and he was absolutely fine afterwards.
"We are both a bit gutted because I will be missing out on a big conditionals' race as well as a couple of claimers I would have ridden in for him."
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Post by dennisg on Jan 4, 2018 7:55:55 GMT
in today's sporting life................ Top broadcaster Mike Cattermole reflects on the hot topics in racing and questions whether Might Bite's King George win was as good as it was received. What a difference a year makes for Mullins The Leopardstown Christmas meeting promised so much but ended up being like the Christmas where Santa either forgot some of his presents or got them all mixed up. It was a bizarre week and of course a sad one too with the loss of the wonderful yet under-appreciated Nichols Canyon. He won eight Grade One races but never got the recognition he so thoroughly deserved. That was because he was overshadowed by the exuberance and brilliance of stablemates like Faugheen and Annie Power. He might have had a larger profile if he had been trained by someone else and hadn’t been rather lost among the Willie Mullins sea of stars. Speaking of Faugheen, he just seemed to stop in the Ryanair Hurdle. He didn’t lose his action or in any way looked distressed, he’d just had enough. It was racing’s Roberto Duran moment - no mas! What caused him to do this is unknown and tests are continuing. However, it was a massive shock after that brilliant return at Punchestown and yet Faugheen has just turned 10 and has had a multitude of issues. It could be as much mental as physical. We will see. There were indeed sobering times for Mullins - and Rich and Susanna Ricci - and in such contrast to the incredible Christmas 12 months ago when, across the four days at Leopardstown and Limerick, the Closutton trainer sent out a staggering 22 winners. This year’s return was not disastrous though, with seven at Leopardstown and a trio at Limerick. Min’s disqualification in the Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase was inevitable after he had all but pushed Simply Ned into the rails. Paul Townend will hugely regret not pulling his whip through but, even so, Min can’t be regarded as Douvan’s Champion Chase supersub on this evidence as Simply Ned is rated 9lb his inferior. With no Altior on the scene yet, there is a haze over the Champion Chase picture. Meanwhile, the Gold Cup picture is getting a bit fogged up, too. Sizing John looking a shadow of his real self in the Christmas Chase meant that Mullins and Ricci didn’t have the monopoly on disappointments. Something was clearly amiss with the Gold Cup hero and it is no coincidence that this has happened during a period where Jessica Harrington’s horses have totally lost their form. At the time of writing, it is 43 runs and 22 days since her last winner. Sizing John was pushed out to as big as 8/1 for the Gold Cup, which is almost tempting. However, this was a big setback and time is moving on. Might Bite is the new Gold Cup favourite but am I the only one to be underwhelmed by his win in the King George? Given that Bristol De Mai’s jumping was so out of sorts for much of the race, I was expecting Might Bite to trot up but in the end he laboured home by a length from the 151-rated Double Shuffle. I think he is a lot better than that as he was idling in front, so don’t for one minute believe that his idiosyncrasies are a thing of the past just yet! He is anything but straightforward and remains a bit of an enigma but a fascinating and extremely talented one at that. Pure box office, in fact. Meanwhile, one horse that emerged as a possible Gold Cup contender was the JP McManus-owned Coney Island who impressed after a year off at Ascot before Christmas. Barry Geraghty settled the Eddie Harty-trained gelding off a decent pace but the burst he produced as they were about to turn in was a bit special. It could be the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown for him next. Buveur D'Air still under appreciated So, the Gold Cup and Champion Chase scenes are unclear to these eyes but with Faugheen dropping away so tamely and Buveur D’Air outclassing The New One at Kempton, the Champion Hurdle picture is crystal clear. Now odds-on to defend his title, Buveur D’Air has everything – a slick jumping style, gears aplenty – and yet I get the impression that he has yet to really get under the skin of the racing public. He is really special, make no mistake, and I love watching him race. His opponents have plenty of work to do to even make a market for the Champion with perhaps only Defi Du Seuil (also McManus-owned) out there with the potential to lay down some sort of challenge. Buveur D'Air at Cheltenham Buveur D'Air: A brilliant hurdler Nicky Richards back in the big time It was unfortunate for Nicky Richards that both of his recent high-profile wins were somewhat overshadowed by the circumstances surrounding them. In the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham last month, Guitar Pete’s victory was almost lost among the sadness and remorse for poor Starchitect. Then, at Leopardstown, Simply Ned’s long wait for a Grade One win was just as much about Min’s disqualification. I am sure that Richards would have been philosophical about it as well as being obviously delighted to record a first success at the highest level since Monet’s Garden won the Ascot Chase in February, 2010. The Greystoke trainer had big shoes to fill when he took over from his late father Gordon - almost 20 years ago now - and it was to his credit that the transition was almost seamless. Things were looking tough a few seasons ago but all seems nicely back on track now. I am looking forward to seeing how the stable’s promising Uncle Alastair, a winner at Ayr before Christmas, gets on when he has his sights raised in the New Year. Champion Jockey twice in one year! I got an email from Great British Racing the other day to say that Silvestre De Sousa had been crowned champion jockey. Hang on, hadn't he been crowned champion jockey at Ascot on Champions’ Day two months ago? Yes, he had indeed, but that was for the Stobart Champion Flat Jockey and this one was for the 2017 Stobart Annual Flat Jockey Champion, referring to the number of wins in a calendar year. That this was being recognised came as news to me. So, that’s all clear then. But what a ridiculous state of affairs. At least De Sousa won both, but that is not always the case. For example, there would have been two “champions”, De Sousa and Luke Morris, in 2015. This is a mess and needs sorting out, although nobody seems in any hurry to do so. Call me an old dinosaur, but for me, the old championship – from the Lincoln to November Handicap day - worked well enough before and, most importantly, had stood the test of time. Wedge and Hornby bans the wrong way around I sympathised with Adam Wedge at Exeter on New Year’s Day after he was handed a 21-day suspension for missing out the first fence in the home straight on Report To Base. Sure, it shouldn’t have happened but it is easy to understand why there was confusion after seven fences (of a possible 12) were omitted. Even commentator Simon Holt was momentarily baffled when they missed out the first fence on the circuit only to swiftly realise that you can’t have a water jump as the first obstacle. All of the fences down the back were taken out because of the low sun but the field had turned the other way by the time Wedge made his error. What I also thought was odd was hearing judge Guy Lewis then announced the 1-2-3 exactly as they had passed the post, ie naming Report To Base as “first”. This might be protocol until the stewards have a look, I don’t know, but when there has been such an obvious cock-up, perhaps the judge (in radio contact with the stewards) should say something like “result pending”? Last week, Rob Hornby rode a finish a circuit too soon in a Flat race at Wolverhampton and only got 12 days for an error much harder to understand than Wedge’s.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 4, 2018 7:57:34 GMT
Sky Sports News' Alex Hammond looks back on the festive racing period and looks ahead to the Tolworth and more this upcoming weekend. Might Bite. He’s won a King George, but can he win a Gold Cup? He can win a Gold Cup, but he won’t carry my cash. You know when someone is chatting to you and they say “with respect” and you know that actually some form of disrespect is about to follow? Well, I’m about to do the same thing. Taking nothing away from Might Bite, but …… he beat a horse rated 11lb inferior that was sent off 50/1 for the race by just one length. The horses we hoped would give him a race ran below par and therefore that weakens the performance slightly. I’m not saying he was a lucky winner, because he wasn’t. He’s a class act and is improving. However, Bristol De Mai wouldn’t have relished conditions and it also transpires that he was suffering from stomach ulcers. Thistlecrack has something to prove, but put in a better performance to finish fourth and Fox Norton was beaten too early to say whether he stayed the trip or not. It didn’t strike me as a vintage King George, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t going to win the Gold Cup. At 3/1 he doesn’t tempt me though and Sizing John at 7/1 is a much more attractive proposition despite his effort in the Christmas Chase (formerly the Lexus) at Leopardstown on Thursday. The current Gold Cup champion apparently overheated and trailed in in 7th behind Road To Respect. He was post-race ‘abnormal’, so keeping everything crossed that Jessie Harrington can get him back, he’s my strongest fancy at this stage. There are a few shrewdies that have tasty ante-post vouchers on Road To Respect and they are quite within their rights to feel smug as he’s now 10/1 with Sky Bet. Noel Meade’s seven year old has won five of his ten starts over fences now, is already a Cheltenham Festival winner and is shaping up to be a very talented staying chaser. : Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup Sizing John: Set for tests Sizing John: Worth forgiving one poor run With Faugheen flopping and Buveur D’Air not coming out of second gear to win at Kempton, the Champion Hurdle market has a lop-sided look to it. Is there one at a big price that could come out of the woodwork and shock Nicky Henderson’s star hurdler? Or maybe I could find you the Holy Grail? Joking aside, the race looks incredibly one sided with Buveur D’Air now Sky Bet’s 4/6 favourite and Faugheen out to 13/2 after his dismal run at Leopardstown on Friday. Over history we were always taught to forgive a horse one bad run, but that doesn’t always seem to be the thinking nowadays. Maybe because modern top class racehorses seem to be more protected or selectively campaigned? One thing is certain, Faugheen hasn’t become a bad horse because of it, it’s just a worry that there is an underlying problem. We are told nothing has come to light, but there was obviously a reason for it and it will be interesting to see if he gets back on track for the Champion Hurdle. If he lines up at Cheltenham in March, I’ll wish I’d taken a bit of that 13/2! Looking at the bigger priced horses and My Tent Or Yours is an incredible athlete. He has run at the Festival four times and finished runner up four times. In the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and three times in the Champion, so perhaps he is the each way bet at 14/1. : Champion Hurdle What else caught your eye over a very busy festive period, Alex? Well, I tipped a horse on Boxing Day called Diese des Bieffes (trips off the tongue I know!) and whilst Nicky Henderson’s novice hurdler didn’t win at Kempton, he ran very well to finish second over a two mile trip that was possibly too short for him. I think we’ll be seeing more of him at the big meetings. Less under the radar was Footpad who was impressive when winning the grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase at Leopardstown. He’s taken to chasing like the proverbial duck to water and it’s no surprise to see he’s as short as 7/4 with Sky Bet for the Arkle. It was pleasing to see Killultagh Vic back on track and winning over hurdles at Punchestown on New Year’s Eve. He didn’t jump a twig, but won regardless and it will be good to see him over fences next time out. Willie Mullins has done well to get him back and ready after almost two years off the track and hopefully he can continue to fulfil the promise he showed as a novice chaser before his injury layoff. Looking even further ahead I was pleased to see my old friend Ucello Conti finish second at Leopardstown in a three-mile handicap chase. Gordon Elliott’s ten year old has run in a couple of Grand Nationals and is now 25/1 for this year’s race. Western Ryder (right) impresses at Cheltenham Western Ryder: Looks the bet in the Tolworth It’s the Tolworth Hurdle card at Sandown on Saturday, what do you fancy for the Grade One and anything else on the undercard? The Nicky Henderson trained Claimantakingforgan is the 7/4 market leader for this and currently 7/1 for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ with the sponsors after a win at Ascot in a Grade Two two weeks ago. He’s the worthy favourite for Saturday’s two mile contest. Henderson also has We Have A Dream amongst the entries and he’s another nice recruit for the champion trainer. He’s won both his starts since coming over from France and is also entered for the Finale Hurdle at Chepstow on Saturday and the Juvenile Hurdle on the Sandown card. The two surely won’t take each other on, so maybe the juvenile contest will be his port of call. The horse I’m going with for the Sandown contest is the Warren Greatrex trained Western Ryder. He’s 5/2 second best with Sky Bet and his stable are really motoring now. He made an inauspicious start to his hurdling career when his saddle slipped and he unseated his rider, but since then he’s won both his starts over timber. His trainer holds him in the highest regard and thinks he’ll need two and a half miles in the spring. With that in mind, he shouldn’t mind testing conditions where stamina will come into play on Saturday. I’m not sure if the plan is for Joseph O’Brien to send Speak Easy (10/1 with Sky Bet) over for the race, but if he does he could run well. He’s well regarded, although more as a baby chaser and apparently anything he achieves this season will be a bonus. However, he won his point-to-point and then on his rules debut in a maiden hurdle at Navan last month, so if he comes over here, it won’t be for the jolly round. I wonder if they will keep things a bit more low key for now and if they take that option, he’s one to watch. He’s also entered for a Grade One at Naas on Sunday. Elsewhere at Sandown I’m looking forward to seeing how Perfect Candidate fares in the Veterans’ Handicap Chase. It could be another brilliant weekend for his trainer Fergal O’Brien; more of that to follow. This horse comes here off the back of a win in Cheltenham’s BetVictor Handicap Chase in November and has had time to get over his exertions there. He has a 4lb rise to contend with, but I hope he can carry the weight here. He’s 6/1 with Sky Bet. : Tolworth Hurdle Are you sticking with Chase The Spud in the rearranged Welsh National at Chepstow on Saturday? As we speak officials at the track are confident the meeting will survive this time, despite Storm Eleanor battering Britain mid-week. That would be great news for my initial fancy, Chase The Spud. His stable are on a real quest of a wave too with Fergal O’Brien sending out his first grade 1 winner on New Year’s Day. Chase The Spud is still a 9/1 shot with Sky Bet and as I mentioned in my previous blog he’s a proper staying chaser and already has a Midlands National win to his name. He made his seasonal debut at Haydock a month ago, beating a horse called Robinsfirth there and that horse franked the form by winning a Grade Three handicap chase at Cheltenham. He has an 8lb rise in the weights to contend with, but I hope he can do it.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 4, 2018 7:59:26 GMT
David Ord has a horse-by-horse guide to the Coral Welsh National - and thinks the prize is heading back to Yorkshire. VICENTE: Won last two renewals of Scottish National and eyecatching reappearance when second to Perfect Candidate at Cheltenham. Clearly suited by a test of this nature but it would be some performance to land this with 11st 12lb on his back in the Chepstow mud. BEWARE THE BEAR: Improved to win Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle on seasonal bow and capable of further progress. However he didn’t convince with his fencing that day and is as yet unproven over marathon trips for all the shapes as though they will suit. Does handle heavy ground. ROCK THE KASBAH: Another proven mudlark who won on his reappearance – here at Chepstow. Was well backed that day and enters calculations for all he too has a fair burden to carry with 11st 10lb. CHASE THE SPUD: Beat Mysteree in the Midlands National last season and returned in style with workmanlike win at Haydock. Travels strongly and will handle the ground but 18 pounds higher than Uttoxeter and nine above the Haydock mark so life is getting tougher. SILSOL: Beat Native River in West Yorkshire Hurdle last season but wasn’t seen again until making no show – again over timber – at Haydock in November. Talented but an awful lot to prove over fences as he’s only had four starts over the larger obstacles and never faced more than five rivals in any of them. FINAL NUDGE: Had a profitable campaign last term and returned to chase home Present Man in Badger Ales Chase at Wincanton. That was promising but he’s six pounds higher here and ten above his last winning mark. BISHOPS ROAD: Back to form when second to Beware The Bear in the Rehearsal but made no show in this last season, folding tamely from the home turn after a series of mistakes. Others have much more convincing profiles. POBBLES BAY: Won here in December last year and shaped as if needed return at Aintree. This has probably been his long-term target and he’ll handle the ground. Yet to face a stamina test like this but shapes as though it will suit. Respected. HOUBLON DES OBEAUX: Landed veterans chase at Sandown in November but limitations seemingly exposed in London National back there next time. WILD WEST WIND: Won three from four over fences, including beating Alfie Spinner here last month, and there’s plenty more to come. Another who looks tailormade for a test such as this and proven in the mud. Subject of recent market support and a big run looks on the cards. RAZ DE MAREE: Cork National winner and chased home Native River in this last season. Second over hurdles at Southwell last time he looks sure to run his race but a tendency to make mistakes is always a worry. VINTAGE CLOUDS: My idea of the best bet here. He’s been crying out for a trip such as this in the mud and having won at Aintree in October, shaped well when second to Clan Des Obeaux in a gradation chase at Haydock. That was over an inadequate trip and he looks to have been primed for the big day by his shrewd stable. () ASK THE WEATHERMAN: Winning pointer and two from three under rules so completely unexposed. His only defeat came when seventh in Cheltenham Foxhunters but was workmanlike rather than impressive on Exeter reappearance and this comes early in his education. MYSTEREE: Has to be a player given his outstanding record fresh and love for a slog in the mud. Won the Eider last season and looks a very solid each-way proposition in a race that plays to his strengths. BUCKHORN TIMOTHY: Won his last two races over hurdles at Fontwell and Wincanton but was fortunate on the latter occasion as he was left in front when the leader fell at the last. Useful chaser at best and goes well here and in deep ground so another who enters calculations. FOLSOM BLUE: Joined Gordon Elliott at the start of the season and set to make his first chase start for the stable with conditions very much in his favour. Stays well too so easy to see him running a big race but he hasn’t always looked straightforward and not one to trust implicitly. O’FAOLAINS BOY: High class chaser back in 2014 when landing the RSA Chase but more letters than numbers in his form figures since. Did end last campaign with a more solid run, sixth in a Punchestown handicap, but impossible to know how much ability remains. MILANSBAR: First form for some time when third to Wild West Wind here in December but overall profile remains unconvincing for a race of this nature. ALFIE SPINNER: Firmly in the veteran stage at 13 but showed the fire still burns when chasing home Wild West Wind last time. However this is much deeper and the percentage call has to be to look elsewhere. RATHLIN ROSE: Pulled up on two of his last three starts and difficult to make a convincing case for him here for all he looked promising at Sandown in the spring. STREETS OF PROMISE: Front runner who showed signs of getting back on track when fourth to Emperor’s Choice at Haydock last week. Still altogether more needed here and will be hard to dominate this from the front with plenty of others who will be keen to go forward early. FIREBIRD FLYER: Eighth in this last season but pulled up on last four chase starts. Makes mistakes and very limited appeal. ON THE ROAD: Won his last three over fences and at the right end of the handicap but this is a vastly different test to the ones he faced at Lingfield and Sedgefield (twice) and much more needed. EMPEROR’S CHOICE: Won this in 2014. Handicap mark has been in freefall for some time and finally took advantage with authoritative win at Haydock last week. Has a four pound penalty here (so officilly 3lb well-in) but has won from a seven pound higher mark in the past. Will love conditions and while rarely runs the same race twice, is one of the more likely types among the outsiders. TWO SMOKIN BARRELS: Won four times over fences last season but has never sat a test such as this. A fall at Market Rasen hardly the ideal prep and makes very little appeal. VERDICT: As you’d expect a wide-open renewal. Mysteree and Wild West Wind were towards the top of a lengthy shortlist but the vote goes to VINTAGE CLOUDS who has long shaped as if crying out for a test like this. He finally gets it here. Of the rest a rejuvenated Emperor’s Choice is capable of going well at a big price if sneaking into the race.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 4, 2018 8:01:36 GMT
Samcro will miss the Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle on Sunday after producing a scope not totally to the satisfaction of connections. The much-talked-about six-year-old has looked an exciting prospect in winning his two starts over hurdles and was one of eight of the 15 possibles representing owners Gigginstown House Stud and trainer Gordon Elliott. "Gordon called me a short while ago and told me the horse scoped ordinary. He now won't run," said Gigginstown's racing manager Eddie O'Leary. "It's not a bad scope. Hopefully he'll run at the winter festival in Leopardstown (in February). "We've got plenty in it (at Naas), so we'll run what we can on Sunday." Having been installed as the odds-on favourite when the race was priced up on Tuesday, Samcro had been overtaken at the head of the ante-post market by the Willie Mullins-trained Next Destination, who was an easy winner of the Grade Two Navan Novice Hurdle last month.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:12:00 GMT
Thursday: going, weather & non-runners Bangor-on-Dee GOING: HEAVY (GoingStick 5.3) WEATHER: Light rain NON RUNNERS: 3:20 Libby T Valance (4)The Draconian (6) 3:55 Locker Room Talk (4) Chelmsford (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Rain STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 8:45 Novabridge (9) Newcastle (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Rain STALLS: Straight course - Centre; 1m2f & 1m4f - Far Side; 2m - Inside NON RUNNERS: 3:45 Nelson's Bay (10) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Rain STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 1:55 Northern Law (7) 4:05 Herm (8) 5:35 Raashdy (2)
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:12:40 GMT
Lambourn: James Burn
Before Midnight (3.55 Bangor, nap)
Promising gelding was close to running in the spring, so should know his job and this good-looking five-year-old can go close.
4/5 Before Midnight 3:55 Bangor-on-Dee Others to follow Bangor 2.15 Follow The Bear, 2.50 Article Fifty. Chelmsford 6.45 Bold Prediction, 7.15 Start Seven. Wolverhampton 3.30 Breathless Times, 4.05 Pulsating, 5.05 Valitop.
West Country: Tim Mitchell
The Kings Writ (1.15 Bangor, nap)
Two from two in points at the backend of last year but had previously shown some promise on his four starts over hurdles. Connections are hopeful he's on a fair mark returning to this sphere as he has been found an ordinary contest.
10/3 The Kings Writ 1:15 Bangor-on-Dee Others to follow Bangor 2.15 Samuel Jackson, 3.20 Lady Mix, 3.55 Burns Cross.
North: Colin Russell
Symbolic Star (3.45 Newcastle, nap)
Has a fine record on the course and is still feasibly treated so, as he has a good record fresh, is fancied to go well again on his first run since August.
5/1 Symbolic Star 3:45 Newcastle (AW) Others to follow Bangor 1.15 Pinch Of Ginger, 1.45 Carlton Ryan, 2.15 Uppertown Prince, 2.50 Fin And Game, 3.20 American Life, 3.55 Upsettheodds. Chelmsford 6.45 Lagenda, 7.45 Udontdodou, 8.15 The Commendatore, 8.45 Jorvik Prince. Newcastle 1.00 Lady Noorah, 1.30 Thankyou Very Much, 2.05 Good Time Ahead, 2.40 Urban Soul, 3.10 Zabeel Star, 4.20 Celtic Artisan, 4.55 Pearl Acclaim. Wolverhampton 1.55 Bungee Jump, 2.25 Progressive Jazz, 3.30 Daze Out, 4.05 Jack Blane, 4.35 Butoolat, 5.05 Daisy Bere, 5.35 William Booth.
Newmarket: David Milnes
Native Arrow (6.15 Chelmsford, nap)
The son of Kitten's Joy has been showing up well in his recent work with winning stablemates at Moulton Paddocks and is forward enough to oblige first time. Charlie Appleby's chestnut is expected to enjoy the surface.
5/4 Native Arrow 6:15 Chelmsford (AW) Others to follow Newcastle 1.00 Kaser, 2.40 Winds Of Fire. Wolverhampton 1.55 High Seas, 3.00 Diagnostic, 3.30 Wide Acclaim, 5.05 Influent. Chelmsford 6.45 Wicker, 7.15 Vettori Rules, 7.45 Royal Birth, 8.15 The Eagle's Nest, 8.45 Red Invader
Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
American Life (3.20 Bangor, nap)
Just touched off by a progressive rival on ground less testing than ideal at Catterick last week, but remains very well treated on the best of his form and the heavy ground should play to his strengths.
2/1 American Life 3:20 Bangor-on-Dee Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Diagnostic (3.00 Wolverhampton)
Unbeaten in three starts on the all-weather and William Haggas's progressive filly can take this step up in class in her stride.
8/11 Diagnostic 3:00 Wolverhampton (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Ad Vitam (4.35 Wolverhampton)
Veteran hasn't been firing on all cylinders lately, but has some smart form at the track and is 2lb lower than when last successful.
13/2 Ad Vitam 4:35 Wolverhampton (AW) Read The Briefing from 8.30am daily on racingpost.com with all the day's latest going, weather, market moves and non-runner news
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:13:09 GMT
BANKER
Fin And Game (2.50 Bangor)
This looks something of a match between Warren Greatrex, Richard Johnson and Article Fifty and Donald McCain, Brian Hughes and Fin And Game and the latter is expected to give 7lb and a beating to the former. Article Fifty was an impressive winner of his bumper but was done for a turn of foot on his hurdling debut over a similar trip. Fin And Game on the other hand, out of an unraced half-sister to stable star Peddlers Cross, was too green to win a bumper but absolutely bolted up by nine lengths on his hurdling debut over this trip and looks to have any amount of ability. Everything so far suggests he will be the far better suited of the two to this specific test.
11/10 Fin And Game 2:50 Bangor-on-Dee EYECATCHER
Samuel Jackson (2.15 Bangor)
Nicky Henderson and Donald McCain may have saddled thousands of winners between them but it is Richard Mitford-Slade, with just one winner to his name, whose runner catches the eye. That horse, Samuel Jackson, gave the 52-year-old his only win under rules – with his first ever runner – by three and a quarter lengths at Taunton last month. He returned an SP of 100-1 that day, beating horses at single-figure odds from the yards of Harry Fry, Henderson, Paul Nicholls and Alan King, and his trainer revealed afterwards Samuel Jackson was the sole reason he took out a training licence in the first place. He looks decent, knows his job and once again this David could get the better of the Goliaths.
5/1 Samuel Jackson 2:15 Bangor-on-Dee 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 Jan 4, 2018 9:13:28 GMT
Mighty Zip has four wins from 14 runs at Chelmsford and goes in the 8.45. When running off a rating of 57 or below at the track his form figures read 111d321 and this drop into a Class 6 can see him go close.
When Jack Mitchell rides for Hugo Palmer at Wolverhampton they operate at an impressive 50 per cent strike-rate. Their best chance looks to be with High Seas (1.55). There should be more to come from the filly who wears first-time cheekpieces.
Ralph Beckett has a 25 per cent strike-rate at Wolverhampton and sends just one runner to the track in Authentic Art, who makes his handicap debut in the 2.25. His relatives have run well on this surface and he could improve for the switch from turf. First-time blinkers can help sharpen him up further too.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:14:41 GMT
BANGOR
Goodfellow
1.15 The Kings Writ
1.45 Carlton Ryan
2.15 Uppertown Prince
2.50 Fin And Game
3.20 Tudors Treasure
3.55 Burns Cross
GIMCRACK
1.15 The Kings Writ
1.45 Carlton Ryan
2.15 Uppertown Prince
2.50 Fin And Game
3.20 Cougar Kid
3.55 Before Midnight
CHELMSFORD CITY
Goodfellow
6.15 Native Arrow
6.45 Lagenda
7.15 Noble Behest
7.45 Udontdodou
8.15 Upavon
8.45 Jorvik Prince
GIMCRACK
6.15 Native Arrow
6.45 Wicker
7.15 Argante
7.45 Udontdodou (nb)
8.15 Lucymai
8.45 Toolatetodelegate
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:15:03 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 9:15:22 GMT
NEWCASTLE
Goodfellow
1.00 Court House
1.30 Strictly Art
2.05 Good Time Ahead
2.40 Winds Of Fire
3.10 Zabeel Star
3.45 Rockley Point
4.20 Pudding Chare
4.55 Poppy In The Wind
GIMCRACK
1.00 Kaser
1.30 Strictly Art
2.05 Good Time Ahead
2.40 Winds Of Fire
3.10 Champagne Pink
3.45 Supreme Power
4.20 Lozah
4.55 Pearl Acclaim
WOLVERHAMPTON
Goodfellow
1.55 Swissal (nb)
2.25 Authentic Art
3.00 Diagnostic
3.30 Breathless Times
4.05 Pulsating (nap)
4.35 Pushkin Museum
5.05 Tangramm
5.35 Widnes
GIMCRACK
1.55 The British Lion
2.25 Progressive Jazz
3.00 Raven ’s Lady (nap)
3.30 Breathless Times
4.05 Pulsating
4.35 Hisar
5.05 Valitop
5.35 Crindle Carr
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 20:23:32 GMT
FRIDAY.
Lambourn: James Burn
Flight Of Fantasy (7.45 Kempton, nap)
Capable filly has a decent draw, can go well fresh and has produced some of her best efforts at this track, so a big run is anticipated.
15/8 Flight Of Fantasy 7:45 Kempton (AW) Others to follow Kempton: 5.45 Inuk, 6.15 New Rich, 6.45 Pulsating, 7.15 Bardd, 8.15 Kodiline, 8.45 Big Bad Lol. Southwell: 3.40 Affair. Wetherby: 12.40 Aardwolf, 1.15 Pennywell, 2.25 Jammin Masters, 3.25 Up To No Good.
North: Colin Russell
Magic Pulse (12.55 Southwell, nap)
Chelmsford nursery winner who was an unlucky second over C&D on her Fibresand debut a week ago. Put up 2lb for that run but runs off her old mark today and fancied to go well again.
15/8 Magic Pulse 12:55 Southwell (AW) Others to follow Kempton: 5.45 Harvest Day, 6.15 Broughtons Fancy. Southwell: 2.05 Akkadian Empire, 2.40 The Amber Fort, 3.10 Deben, 3.40 Serenity Now. Wetherby: 12.40 Take The High Road, 1.15 Katy Royal, 1.50 Very First Time, 2.25 Knockrobin, 2.55 Joseph Mercer, 3.25 Colby.
Newmarket: David Milnes
Shamsaya (8.15 Kempton, nap)
Simon Crisford's filly ran into an in-form rival when chasing home Show Stealer over six furlongs at Lingfield last time when she finished off well. This stiffer track should play to her strengths and Robert Havlin is riding out of his skin at the moment.
8/1 Shamsaya 8:15 Kempton (AW) Others to follow Southwell: 12.55 Cool Baby, 1.30 Heather Lark, 2.05 Beautiful Artist, 2.40 Ghaseedah, 3.10 Declamation, 3.40 Alternate Route. Kempton: 5.45 Jan's Joy, 6.15 Justice Rock, 8.45 Exit Europe.
Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Jammin Masters (2.25 Wetherby, nap)
Winning pointer who should be suited by the step up in trip after finishing a good second on his hurdling debut at today's track in November.
10/11 Jammin Masters 2:25 Wetherby Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Declamation (3.10 Southwell)
Romped home over course and distance seven days ago and despite his welter burden John Butler's rejuvenated eight-year-old can follow up.
4/6 Declamation 3:10 Southwell (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Love Rat (1.30 Southwell)
Slow to get going over 7f at this venue last month. Should improve upped to 1m with that experience under his belt.
20/1 Love Rat 1:30 Southwell (AW) Ireland: Justin O'Hanlon
Johann Bach (7.00 Dundalk)
Has top weight in the mile handicap but deserves a rating of 93 and class could prevail under capable 3lb claimer Gary Halpin.
9/2 Johann Bach 7:00 Dundalk (AW) Raceform Interactive nugget
The sire Speightstown is 3/8 with horses making their debut at Southwell since November 2013. Therefore, Going Native looks a fascinating contender for the 2.05 there.
9/2 Going Native 2:05 Southwell (AW) >>There are no West Country tips today
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 Jan 4, 2018 20:24:29 GMT
FRIDAY.
When Archie Watson and Oisin Murphy team up at Kempton it’s worth taking note, they have a 38 per cent strike-rate when doing so. They combine once more with Erinyes (7.45) who should strip fitter from a good run at Lingfield last month and looks set to run well.
Simon Crisford is very much a trainer to note when he sends his horses to Southwell, he has a 40 per cent strike-rate at the venue. He saddles three runners there today, the pick of those is Ghaseedah (2.40). This filly lost her maiden tag at the course last time and can make into a nice four-year-old.
This is a very good time of year for trainer Simon Waugh, he has a 36 per cent strike-rate with his horses two weeks either side of today’s date for the past five seasons. He has just the one runner today, Total Assets in the 1.15 at Wetherby.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 4, 2018 20:25:51 GMT
Wolverhampton, 04 Jan 18 Race 1 - 1:55pm THE 32Redsport.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Rossa Ryan reported that BUNGEE JUMP (IRE), placed fifth, hung right throughout.
Race 2 - 2:25pm THE 32Red CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Leaving the stalls, ROSE OF SHIRAZ, placed eighth, jumped right causing both PRINCE CONSORT (IRE), placed fourth, and FREEBE ROCKS (IRE), placed third, to be crowded for room which in turn resulted in DASHING DUSTY (IRE), unplaced, being hampered but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Just inside the 1 furlong marker, the winner, SURREY BLAZE obtained a legitimate gap between PRINCE CONSORT (IRE), placed fourth, and AUTHENTIC ART, placed second, before PRINCE CONSORT (IRE) then hung quickly right-handed, tightening up SURREY BLAZE (IRE) onto AUTHENTIC ART which became unbalanced when bumped but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Shane Kelly reported that HAVEN’S VIEW, placed seventh, was slowly away and Hollie Doyle reported that ROSE OF SHIRAZ, hung slightly left under pressure.
Race 3 - 3:00pm THE 32Red.com FILLIES' CONDITIONS STAKES (CLASS 2) (All-Weather Championships Fast-Track Qualifier) Permission was given for DIAGNOSTIC to go early to post.
Following the race, Daniel Tudhope reported that DIAGNOSTIC, placed third, was unsuited by the slow pace.
Race 4 - 3:30pm THE BETWAY NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BREATHLESS TIMES and WIDE ACCLAIM (IRE) to wear a hood in the parade ring.
Following the race, Shane Gray reported that HARBOUR PILOT, unplaced, hung badly left throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the colt failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 4:05pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Permission was given for FRENCH to be mounted in the chute.
Shortly after leaving the stalls, STRICTLY CARTER, unplaced, edged slightly left carrying CHARLIE’S DREAMER, placed seventh, onto the winner, PULSATING (IRE) which had to be checked and in turn hampering SPIN TOP, placed sixth, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Cam Hardie reported that FRENCH, placed second, ran too free and Dougie Costello reported that SPIN TOP was slowly away and hung right.
Race 6 - 4:35pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) Permission was given for PUSHKIN MUSEUM to go early to post.
BUTOOLAT, placed eighth, jumped awkwardly and hung left leaving the stalls making contact with TIME STANDS STILL, placed sixth, which in turn bumped PICKS PINTA, placed second. A short distance later, BUTOOLAT had to be checked off the heels of HISAR (IRE), placed fifth which edged marginally left but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Hollie Doyle reported that WHISPERING SOUL (IRE), unplaced, was slowly away.
Race 7 - 5:05pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The record of vaccinations in the passport of VALITOP did not comply with the Rules of Racing. Seamus Durack was fined £280 as this was his second offence within the previous 12 months.
Following the race, Charles Bishop reported that TANGRAMM, placed second, was denied a clear run.
Race 8 - 5:35pm THE BETWAY MIDDLE DISTANCE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) An enquiry was held into the non-arrival of Robert Tart, the declared rider of HANDSOME DAN (IRE). The trainer Sarah Hollinshead, the Sampling Officers and the Clerk of the Scales were interviewed. Robert Tart was unable to be contacted to give evidence. Permission was given for Luke Morris to be substituted. Having heard their evidence, a report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
Following the race; Charles Bishop, reported that SACKFULLOFDREAMS (IRE), unplaced, was never travelling. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of SACKFULLOFDREAMS (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities. Phillip Makin reported that WILLIAM BOOTH, unplaced, hung right throughout. View Stewards report Newcastle, 04 Jan 18 Race 1 - 1:00pm THE 32Red.com NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) PHOENIX LIGHTNING (IRE) ran very free to post and unseated its rider on arrival at the stalls. Having been checked by the Veterinary Surgeon at the start, the colt was deemed fit to race.
Race 2 - 1:30pm THE BETWAY CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Approximately 2 furlongs out, LUNGARNO PALACE (USA), placed seventh, hung left moving PANTOMIME (IRE), placed fifth, slightly left into the path of the winner, APALIS (FR), who as a result shifted left causing ARCHIBELLE, placed sixth, to be checked. However, after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that it did not involve any riding offence.
The performance of STRICTLY ART (IRE) which started favourite but finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Alan Bailey explained that the gelding could be feeling the effects of a long campaign and may now need a break. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of STRICTLY ART (IRE) during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4 - 2:40pm THE 32Red.com NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race; Stevie Donohoe reported that DICHATIO (USA), placed second, hung left in the final furlong.
Race 5 - 3:10pm THE BETWAY CLASSIFIED STAKES (CLASS 5) P J McDonald, the rider of SHAMROKH (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from 2½ furlongs out.
Race 6 - 3:45pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV I) Following the race; P J McDonald reported that INSHAA, unplaced, ran too free. Kieran O'Neill reported that HELLAVASHOCK, placed fifth, hung right throughout. Rowan Scott reported that LEONARD THOMAS, unplaced, ran flat. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 8 - 4:55pm THE BETWAY SPRINT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race; Tom Marquand reported that PEARL ACCLAIM (IRE), unplaced, hung right throughout. View Stewards report Bangor-on-dee, 04 Jan 18 Fixture Note Race 1 – Fence 4 by-passed due to unsuitable ground conditions.
Race 2 – Fence 1 by-passed due to unsuitable ground conditions. Race 1 - 1:15pm THE STELLA ARTOIS NOVICES' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) An enquiry was held to consider the circumstances surrounding the participation of PARLOUR MAID, trained by Richard Hawker, which was dismounted on the way to the start and after being checked by the Veterinary Surgeon was deemed fit to race, only to be pulled up prior to jumping the first fence. They interviewed Robert Dunne, the rider of PARLOUR MAID, who stated that he dismounted the mare on the way to the start as he thought she may be injured, though after trotting her up in the presence of the Veterinary Surgeon she appeared sound and able to take part. He further stated that shortly after the start he felt PARLOUR MAID go wrong so pulled the mare up and dismounted. However, after walking PARLOUR MAID round, the Veterinary Surgeon considered she was sufficiently sound and could be walked back to the racecourse stables. Their comments were noted.
An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after interference on the run to the line where ONEIDA TRIBE (IRE), ridden by A. P. Heskin, had interfered with PINCH OF GINGER (IRE), ridden by Brian Hughes, who both dead-heated for first place. The Stewards considered that the interference had improved ONEIDA TRIBE (IRE)’s placing as after jumping the final fence, PINCH OF GINGER (IRE) was carried off its intended line, had to switch around ONEIDA TRIBE (IRE) and had rallied to dead-heat for first place. They revised the placings as follows: First, PINCH OF GINGER (IRE), Second, ONEIDA TRIBE (IRE). Heskin was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to drift-right handed when insufficiently clear, causing PINCH OF GINGER (IRE) to be carried off its intended line.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, PINCH OF GINGER (IRE), lost its right hind shoe.
Race 2 - 1:45pm THE DEREK HATTON BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) The winner, VICE ET VERTU (FR), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Exeter on 8 December 2017 where the gelding was pulled up. It was noted that Henry Daly could offer no explanation for the gelding’s improved form. VICE ET VERTU (FR) was routine tested.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that THEDRINKYMEISTER (IRE), placed second, lost both its left fore and left hind shoes.
Race 3 - 2:15pm THE STELLA ARTOIS SUPPORTING BANGOR-ON-DEE NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Charlie Hammond, the rider of HAPPY RING HOUSE (IRE), which fell at the final hurdle, had continued in the race when well detached from the remainder of the field. The rider, the trainer and the Veterinary Officer were interviewed and recordings of the incident were viewed. The Veterinary Officer stated that a post-race examination of the gelding showed it to be post-race normal. The rider stated that HAPPY RING HOUSE (IRE) had jumped the second last hurdle sufficiently well that he felt he could present the gelding at the final flight. However, HAPPY RING HOUSE (IRE) was on the wrong stride going into the final hurdle which caused it to clip the top and fall. His explanation was noted.
Following the race, Jeremiah McGrath reported that FOLLOW THE BEAR (IRE), placed fourth, stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 3:20pm THE STELLA ARTOIS 4% HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The Starter reported that AMERICAN LIFE (FR), trained by Oliver Greenall, had arrived at the start without the correct saddle cloth. The trainer, the Clerk of the Scales and the Starter were interviewed. Greenall was fined £140.
Following the race, Charlie Hammond reported that PRINCE KUP (IRE), which was pulled up, hung left-handed. The Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that PRINCE KUP (IRE) lost its right fore shoe.
Race 6 - 3:55pm THE BUDWEISER STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that ALDERSON, placed third, lost its right fore shoe. View Stewards report Chelmsford City, 04 Jan 18 Race 1 - 6:15pm THE BET toteplacepot AT betfred.com NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Adam Kirby reported that NATIVE ARROW (USA), placed fourth, ran green.
Race 2 - 6:45pm THE BET toteJACKPOT AT betfred.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Following the race, Marc Monaghan reported that CASINA DI NOTTE (IRE), placed second, was slowly away.
Race 3 - 7:15pm THE BET totequadpot AT betfred.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) The performance of LOST THE MOON which finished sixth, was considered. Mark H. Tompkins’ explanation that the gelding was unsuited by the slow pace was noted. LOST THE MOON was routine tested.
Race 4 - 7:45pm THE BET toteexacta AT betfred.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Permission was given for UDONTDODOU and BOOM THE GROOM (IRE) to go early and be mounted on the chute.
Race 5 - 8:15pm THE BET totetrifecta AT betfred.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Permission was given for TOY THEATRE to be mounted on the track.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 5, 2018 8:03:32 GMT
in today's sporting life.................... News of an eventful afternoon at Bangor where Donald McCain claimed a 106/1 treble. Donald McCain was in irresistible form at Bangor, as he took the training honours with a 106/1 treble on an eventful afternoon which left fellow trainer Robin Dickin "aghast" at the verdict of the stewards in the opening race. Pinch Of Ginger, Fin And Game and Tailor Tom did the business at the Welsh venue for the Cholmondeley handler. However, the hat-trick began in controversial fashion when Pinch Of Ginger (4/1) was awarded outright victory at an inquiry following the Stella Artois Novices' Handicap Chase, after dead-heating with Dickin's Oneida Tribe (5/2 favourite). The stewards found the latter, ridden by Adrian Heskin, had interfered with Pinch Of Ginger on the run to line. They felt it had improved Oneida Tribe's placing as his rival was carried off its intended line, had to switch and then rallied to dead-heat. Dickin is to appeal against the stewards' decision to demote his horse. He said: "There was no interference. I'm aghast it wasn't left a dead-heat." McCain and jockey Brian Hughes completed a double when Fin And Game (11/8 favourite) got the better of Doc Carver in the Stella Artois Cidre 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle. Will Kennedy came with a late run on Tailor Tom (8/1) to snatch the Stella Artois 4% Handicap Hurdle. The six-year-old had plenty to do two out but responded to his jockey's urgings to nab Arden Denis and score by a neck. "Fin And Game didn't like the ground, but we got away with it. He's a nice horse," said McCain. "They are all nice young horses. I couldn't be happier. They are doing it well and they'll be around for a few years." Samuel Jackson (11/4) showed his 100/1 success on his Rules debut at Taunton was no fluke by outpointing long-time leader Uppertown Prince by a length and a half in the Stella Artois Supporting Bangor-On-Dee Novices' Hurdle under Micheal Nolan. The first two drew 54 lengths ahead of Doctor Haze in third.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 5, 2018 8:05:09 GMT
This afternoon's jumps meeting at Wetherby has been abandoned due to "waterlogged areas and false ground". Clerk of the course Jonjo Sanderson was forced to accept the inevitable after he inspected the Yorkshire circuit before daybreak. Five millimetres of rainfall on Thursday left parts of an already saturated track unraceable, while the situation was compounded by further overnight showers.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 5, 2018 8:06:53 GMT
Our all-weather expert Jamie Maynard is back with two bets for Kempton on Friday evening with one already a proven course specialist. 1945 Kempton - 32Red Handicap A fairly competitive looking handicap for this grade over the mile-and-a-half trip. Harry Fry rarely has a runner on the Flat and his representative Status Quo runs on the level for this trainer for the first time. He’s been very modest of hurdles as of yet but did run a few good races off a higher mark when with his previous handler so any market support should be noted. The ultra-consistent Boychick returns to the track for the first time since his turf victory at Windsor at the back end of July. He’s only been unplaced once in his last 12 outings (winning five) and has therefore been raised 15lb and it’s not certain that he’ll be completely ready for battle after a five-month break. Flight Of Fantasy deserves the utmost respect having finished a close second the last day in a better grade under the same conditions and although up 2lb in the ratings he’s gone close off this mark before so should be right there. The selection however is Archie Watson’s filly ERINYES. She won a course and distance maiden on her second start before finding the listed Chalice Stakes too hot too handle next time out. She was too keen when a well backed favourite on handicap debut but settled much better last time out on Lingfield’s polytrack and although sixth she was only beaten under two lengths and is still very unexposed. She’s got the talented Oisin Murphy on board today (rode her for her only success) and the addition of first-time blinkers could help her concentrate that little bit more and any improvement will see her go close. 2045 Kempton - 32Red Casino Handicap Not many arrive here with form to shout about. The once 85-rated Steal The Scene didn’t show much last year against slightly stronger opposition and as a result has now slipped to a mark in which he could play a leading role. He was just touched off at Wolverhampton on Boxing Day from this same mark of 67 and if reproducing that run here he could go close. Exit Europe has a course win to his name and was only beaten just over a length on stable debut three runs back at his track. His latest effort was too bad to be true and if first-time cheekpieces bring about improvement he could reward each-way players for Sir Mark Prescott. The one I’m pinning my colours too though is the four-time course winner MAGIC MIRROR. Two of those wins came over this distance and his form at the back end of last year reads well, 2-1-1-3. He’s on an unchanged mark of 63 after a half-length defeat when favourite over a furlong shorter last time when finishing strongly and this five-year old now steps back up in trip and has been given a nice draw. He’s representing a small yard in Mark Rimmell who does well with runners here (25% strike-rate) so should put up a bold bid.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 5, 2018 8:08:38 GMT
Colin Tizzard is hoping for a dry spell so he can give Native River a racecourse gallop ahead of his intended comeback run in the Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury on February 10. The Dorset trainer reports the eight-year-old to be building nicely for a return to action after being absent since finishing third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March. The Festival blue riband is again the prime objective. "He's been galloping for over two months. He's fine. We'll probably still wait for the Denman and give him a racecourse gallop before then, when it dries up a bit," said Tizzard. "There are not that many conditions races coming up before then. We did think about a hurdle race, but we'll wait for the Denman." Native River is for the Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 8:22:12 GMT
Friday: going, weather & non-runners Dundalk (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy Kempton (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD TO SLOW WEATHER: Showers STALLS: Inside Southwell (AW) GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD WEATHER: Showers STALLS: 5f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 12:55 Tea Rattle (10) 3:10 Poppy May (4) 3:40 Tynecastle Park (8) Wetherby GOING: ABANDONED WEATHER: Showers
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 8:23:46 GMT
There will be a blank day of jump racing in Britain and Ireland after Wetherby failed to pass a morning inspection, although we will have the delights of the all-weather to keep us entertained.
Wetherby joined Lingfield in cancelling a jump meeting, with officials at the West Yorkshire course reporting "waterlogged areas and false ground".
An inspection at 8.15am was planned but the decision was made early and the course tweeted: "Morning, bad news. Despite a dry night, following the 5mm rain we had yesterday, racing today has unfortunately been abandoned ... sorry."
Southwell, Dundalk and Kempton ride to the rescue with all-weather fixtures set to take place at the courses throughout the day.
Off the track, we get final declarations for the Coral Welsh Grand National at Chepstow and the 32Red Tolworth Novices’ Hurdle at Sandown. As always, there is plenty to look forward to.
Going report
Wetherby - abandoned
Southwell - 12.55 Standard
Lingfield - abandoned
Dundalk - 5.30 Standard
Kempton - 5.45 Standard to slow
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 8:25:02 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 8:25:31 GMT
SOUTHWELL
Goodfellow
12.55 Magic Pulse
1.30 Dawn Dancer
2.05 Epitaph
2.40 Ghaseedah
3.10 Declamation
3.40 Serenity Now
GIMCRACK
12.55 Red Snapper
1.30 Dawn Dancer
2.05 Going Native
2.40 The Amber Fort
3.10 Zebelini
3.40 Alternate Route
KEMPTON
Goodfellow
5.45 Inuk
6.15 Broughtons Fancy
6.45 Pulsating (nap)
7.15 Night Of Glory
7.45 Boychick
8.15 Eljaddaaf (nb)
8.45 Mr Mac
GIMCRACK
5.45 Inuk
6.15 Mistry
6.45 Mossy’s Lodge
7.15 Bardd
7.45 Erinyes
8.15 Kadrizzi (nb)
8.45 Steal The Scene
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 8:36:36 GMT
SATURDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:35 CHEPSTOW Coral Future Champions Finale Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1) Cl1 (4yo) 2m ITV4 1:50 SANDOWN 32Red Casino Handicap Chase Cl2 (5yo+) 1m7½f ITV4 2:05 CHEPSTOW Coral Welsh Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m5½f ITV4 2:25 SANDOWN 32Red Tolworth Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m ITV4 2:40 WINCANTON Smarkets Handicap Chase Cl2 (5yo+ 0-150) 2m4f ITV4 3:00 SANDOWN 32Red Veterans' Handicap Chase (The Final Of The 2017 Veterans' Chase Series) Cl2 (10yo+) 3m ITV4 3:15 WINCANTON Smarkets Chase (A Novices' Limited Handicap) Cl3 (5yo+ 0-135) 2m4f ITV4 3:35 SANDOWN 32Red.com Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (4yo+ 0-145) 2m ITV4 3:45 WINCANTON Smarkets Handicap Hurdle Cl3 (4yo+ 0-130) 2m5½f ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 12:28:54 GMT
SATURDAY.
SCOOP 6 1:20 SANDOWN 32Red Handicap Chase (Qualifier For The Challenger Middle Distance Chase Series Final) Cl3 (5yo+ 0-130) 2m4f RUK 2:05 CHEPSTOW Coral Welsh Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m5½f ITV4 2:45 CHEPSTOW Coral Bet 5 Get 20 Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (5yo+ 0-145) 2m7½f ATR 3:00 SANDOWN 32Red Veterans' Handicap Chase (The Final Of The 2017 Veterans' Chase Series) Cl2 (10yo+) 3m ITV4 3:35 SANDOWN 32Red.com Handicap Hurdle Cl2 (4yo+ 0-145) 2m ITV4 3:45 WINCANTON Smarkets Handicap Hurdle Cl3 (4yo+ 0-130) 2m5½f ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 5, 2018 17:06:57 GMT
Officials at Newcastle have called a precautionary inspection for 8am on Sunday ahead of their meeting that day.
While the track is testing but raceable at present, the threat of frost has prompted an early check.
Clerk of the course James Armstrong tweeted: "Precautionary inspection on Sunday morning in light of a possible frost. We will look at 8am.
"Set (to be) dry & cool between now & racing. Could see temps down to -2C with high of +2C on raceday. Heavy presently."
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