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Post by Kimmy on Jan 11, 2018 18:35:47 GMT
It is easy enough to leave home without your keys or your phone, we have all done that. But spare a thought for starter Paddy Graffin, who started a race without one of the horses at murky Clonmel on Thursday.
In the first race Graffin counted the entire field as they passed on the way to post, could not see that Devine Star had overshot by several furlongs due to a fog so heavy the meeting was finally abandoned after five races, and let them go for the opening mares' maiden hurdle without her.
Devine Star, an 80-1 shot trained by John Ryan and ridden by Cathal Landers, left the parade ring to go down to the start with the other runners, but was not with the field as they came into line and, due to the blanket of fog, Graffin was unable to see Devine Star cantering back to join the rest of the runners.
Equally fooled were the TV cameras, who concentrated on the mare cantering back to the start, and only realised the race was off when the rest of the field had gone more than half a mile. By that stage they were in the straight having jumped two hurdles.
Graffin explained: "I counted them all coming out and didn't see anything go past me down at the start. We were actually waiting for another horse to arrive that was having issues with a tongue-tie, and when they are down at the start you cannot count them as they are in a small corral and are pretty much on top of each other.
"But we were waiting there about three minutes after that, I didn't get a shout or a roar from anybody, and I was not aware that John Ryan's mare was not there."
Ryan, for whom Devine Star was his only runner on the day, said: "I'm disgusted really, it is a waste of my day and there are plenty of other things I could have been doing, but I can see it is one of those freakish things that can happen from time to time. The mare overshot the start by a furlong or two and she literally just got lost in the fog."
Asked if he could apportion any blame, Ryan said: "No. Certainly Paddy Graffin was not responsible for this. He's a wonderful starter and I don't think there was anything more he could have done. She just got missed in the fog and I don't bear any grudge."
The raceday stewards referred the matter on to the Irish Horse Racing Board for further investigation. One bizarre outcome though was that Devine Star was officially treated as a runner. In the confusion she was not announced as having been withdrawn, and once the 'winner all right' was announced, she could not have been withdrawn.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 11, 2018 18:36:49 GMT
This weekend's highlights come from Kempton and Warwick courtesy of the Listed 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle and the Betfred Classic Handicap Chase. Our experts highlight what has caught their eye now following the declarations
Sir Mangan Classic Chase
The weights have gone up 14lb following declarations, with Ptit Zig among those not featuring but I still like Sir Mangan even though he is now near the top of the handicap.
Dan Skelton was ready to run Sir Mangan in the Welsh National before it was rearranged, and the ten-year-old is lightly raced over fences with nine starts.
He has not raced at this extreme distance yet, but coped with 3m2½f at Newton Abbot when runner-up to Beer Goggles, and that form has worked out well. He still has scope for improvement and comes into the race in good form having won at Bangor last time out. David Baxter
Goodtoknow Classic Chase
You need to have a proper stayer in order to win this race – as proven when subsequent Grand National hero One For Arthur landed the 2017 running – and the Kerry Lee-trained Goodtoknow, who comes into the contest with more letters than numbers in his form figures recently, looks interesting at a double-figure price on just his third start of the campaign.
He was bought by current connections for a pop at last year's Grand National, in which he finished a very creditable 13th and, having had runs over shorter trips at Wincanton and Aintree this year to blow away the cobwebs, he is beginning to look well handicapped off a mark of 138 – 1lb higher than when landing a slog at Hereford in February last year.
Jamie Moore's booking is a positive (strike-rate of 16 per cent for Lee over the past five years) and I'd rate him the yard's first string over the significantly shorter-priced Krackatoa King. Tom Collins
Classic Chase card
Coeur Blimey Lanzarote Hurdle
Take a chance on former classy bumper performer Coeur Blimey, who would not be available at double figure odds if he represented more fashionable connections.
The seven-year-old beat Ballyandy in a Listed bumper at Ascot and there were mitigating circumstances when he had a frustrating first season over hurdles.
He bounced back with an easy handicap hurdle win at Wincanton and his subsequent Grade 2 novice fifth behind Claimintakinforgan back at Ascot represented another step in the right direction considering the strength of the opposition and his indifferent jumping.
Sue and Lucy Gardner know what they are doing, and there is a chance he will improve again for the step up in trip. Graham Dench
Le Patriote Lanzarote Hurdle
Marcel Rolland is a trainer who usually gets the best out of his charges but there are reasons to believe Richard Newland might still have a bit to work with as regards Le Patriote.
Two starts in the autumn at Auteuil failed to produce too many fireworks – although the son of Poliglote was not beaten all that far either time – but Le Patriote is probably better judged for a task like this on his performances at speed-favouring tracks like Enghien and Compiegne. Newland has booked Brian Hughes for the ride. Scott Burton
Wishfull Dreaming Lanzarote Hurdle
It may be wishful dreaming on my part but Olly Murphy proved at Ascot before Christmas he can ready one first time out for a big handicap with Hunters Call and he could be about to do it again with Wishfull Dreaming.
Wishfull Dreaming has his first start for Murphy since the last of two disappointing runs for Philip Hobbs in June.
He has not had any more help from the handicapper but his best form is plenty good enough if the extra distance and fitting of a tongue tie work. Jon Lees
Lanzarote card
Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com
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Post by dennisg on Jan 12, 2018 7:48:26 GMT
in today's sporting life................. Nicky Henderson holds a strong hand in the 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton on Saturday. The Lambourn handler has two representatives and both are in the top three in the betting with Diese Des Bieffes 6/1 joint-favourite at Sky Bet. The novice was second to If The Cap Fits at the same track on Boxing Day and steps up five furlongs in trip this weekend for his handicap debut off a mark of 135, with talented claimer Mitchell Bastyan taking 5lb off his back. Stablemate William Henry, last seen pulling up on his chasing debut at Cheltenham in November, heads the weights and is 13/2 at Sky Bet for his return to timber. Click here for David Ord's horse-by-horse guide to the Lanzarote Hurdle Also well-fancied as 6/1 joint-favourite is Alan King’s River Frost, ninth in the Coral Cup at the Cheltenham Festival and fifth on his return at Chepstow in October. He’s the sole entry for owner JP McManus, who won the race last year with Modus, though King does have another hopeful in Dino Velvet for the McNeill Family. Trainer Nick Williams has won the race three times in the last seven years and he has two possibles this time around with both Dentley De Mee and Man From Mars declared. Other notable runners include Harry Fry’s Bags Groove, a course and distance winner when last seen in November, Topofthegame for Paul Nicholls, who has won the race three times in the last decade and Red Indian for Ben Pauling, a horse that was a well-punted third at Cheltenham last time. 6/1 Diese Des Bieffes, River Frost, 13/2 William Henry, 8/1 Bags Groove, 9/1 Le Patriote, Topofthegame, 10/1 Red Indian, 12/1 Bar
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Post by dennisg on Jan 12, 2018 7:50:13 GMT
David Ord has a horse-by-horse guide to the 32 Red Lanzarote Hurdle and Paul Nicholls is taken to land the prize again. WILLIAM HENRY: Reverts to hurdling after pulling up on chase debut at Cheltenham and fascinating contender despite top weight. Won two of his four starts over timber and chased Wholestone home in warm heat at Prestbury Park on Trials Day last January. A big player. RIVER FROST: Looks to have been laid out for this having caught the eye when fifth in the Silver Trophy at Chepstow on reappearance. Looked just in need of the run there having travelled strongly for the majority of the contest and while 12 pounds higher than when landing a novice handicap over course and distance in February, even a revised mark of 145 could underestimate him. BAGS GROOVE: Course and distance winner in November and another on an upward curve. Showed good attitude to get the better of The Last Samuri last time and isn’t easily discounted. EL TERREMOTO: Started the season well with clear-cut success at Stratford but well below form at Haydock next time. Better than that but plenty to prove back up in grade. TOP VILLE BEN: Wide-margin winner in the Haydock mud last time but 12 pounds higher now and that is some hike to covercome. Overall balance of form suggests best to look elsewhere. TOPOFTHEGAME: Fascinating runner for stable that has won three of the last ten renewals. Reverts to timber after falling at Newbury and completely unexposed in this sphere. Seven-and-a-half lengths adrift of William Henry at Cheltenham in January but nine pounds better off here and travelled strongly for long way that day. More to come. I SHOT THE SHERIFF: Not without promise despite pulling up on Newbury reappearance and drop in trip here likely to suit. More compelling cases can be made for others but he represents very shrewd connections and looked like he could be competitive off this sort of mark for Tony Martin in Ireland. DIESE DES BIEFFES: Won first two starts for Nicky Henderson this term and lost little in defeat behind the very promising If The Cap Fits here on Boxing Day. Wasn’t suited by how the race unfolded there and there’s more to come. Should stay this trip and Mitchell Bastyan claims a valuable five pounds. SPIRITOFTHEGAMES: Five pounds higher than when winning on Lingfield reappearance but in excellent hands and on the upgrade. Still this is his toughest test to date for all he’s not one to write off completely. RED INDIAN: Looks a work in progress for his very capable trainer and lot to like about Cheltenham reappearance. Laid out for this since and big run must be on the cards. COUER BLIMEY: Didn’t hurdle fluently when fifth of sixth in Sky Bet Supreme Trial at Ascot in December. Needs to be much slicker in that department as he goes in deep here from an 11 pounds higher mark than when winning at Wincanton last month. WISHFULL DREAMING: Not seen since pulling up (and dismounted) at Worcester in June. Joined Olly Murphy from Philip Hobbs in the meantime and he’s made a big impression in his fledgling career but hard to garner much enthusiasm for this fellow who is unproven at the trip and prone to costly mistakes. LE PATRIOTE: Fascinating runner for shrewd trainer. Comes here off his French rating and the subject of ante-post support. It’s a guessing game but Brian Hughes has a 50% strike rate for Dr Newland this season (three winners from six rides) and nothing is being left to chance. DENTLEY DE MEE: In form of his life right now, following up Taunton win with narrow defeat at Ludlow but even those career-best efforts leave him with something to find in against less exposed and exciting rivals DINO VELVET: Ran ok when fifth to Old Guard at Newbury last time but little to suggest he is ready to land a prize of this nature. River Frost looks very much stable first string. MAN FROM MARS: Making seasonal reappearance at track where he won when last seen in April but unproven beyond two miles and has tendency to make lots of mistakes. Not for me. VERDICT: A fascinating renewal. River Frost and Diese Des Bieffes deserve their place at the head of the market, William Henry will go well despite top weight and there's a big day in Red Indian. However the vote goes to TOPOFTHEGAME who looked an exciting prospect last term for Paul Nicholls and remains completely unexposed. The yard have an outstanding record in the race and two miles five around here could prove ideal for him.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 12, 2018 7:51:52 GMT
Dave Ord thinks a Nicky Henderson-trained newcomer can make a big splash on his British handicap debut at Huntingdon on Friday. Recommended bet: Sporting Life's Daily Nap, January 12 Terrefort can make a winning British debut in the SMarkets Chase at Huntingdon on Friday. Simon Munir and Isaac Souede recently added the former Guillaume Macaire charge to their burgeoning string – having seen him run against several of their own French team. He was given a positive mention by Daryl Jacob in our recent Christmas Podcast and there are reasons to believe an opening mark of 137 underestimates his ability judged on a third place in a Listed event at Auteuil and his third place in a warm handicap at the same track in September. The Nicky Henderson yard are flying right now and the five-year-old has apparently been giving all the right signs at Seven Barrows. He’s taken to get the better of Bentelimar and Exitas before his sights are raised in the spring. Daily Nap record: -11.32pts
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Post by dennisg on Jan 12, 2018 7:53:27 GMT
Gumball and Style De Garde lock horns in what promises to be an informative renewal of the Smarkets Chatteris Fen Juvenile Hurdle at Huntingdon on Friday. The Philip Hobbs-trained Gumball looked every inch a top-class juvenile in the making after winning his first two starts in Britain at Stratford and Chepstow, but was brushed aside by Apple's Shakira at Cheltenham in November. While there was no disgrace in that effort, with the winner now clear favourite for the Triumph Hurdle, the suspicion was Gumball was not at his best at Prestbury Park and he bids to regain the winning the thread in Cambridgeshire. Hobbs said: "Gumball is in good form and we're looking forward to running him. "It could be that he is better suited by the flatter track at Huntingdon. He obviously won well on flat tracks at Stratford and Chepstow, so we'll see whether that makes a difference." Gumball's biggest threat appears to be the Nicky Henderson-trained Style De Garde, who was a winner over hurdles in October and was most impressive on his British debut at Newbury last month. The four-year-old carries the colours of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing and connections can expect to learn plenty about his potential aspirations for the remainder of the campaign. Both Gumball and Style De Garde are a best-priced 25-1 for the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March. Gary Moore saddles the only filly in the field in Aiguille Rouge. The daughter of Falco was a well-beaten third on her hurdling debut at Fakenham, but has since registered back-to-back victories at Fontwell. Moore said: "Hopefully the ground is soft as she loves soft ground. "She won very easily the other day. What she beat I don't know, but she won well and we'll see how she gets on. "She's a progressive filly, but she'll have to be." Dan Skelton's Embole and the Nick Williams-trained Esprit De Somoza complete the five-strong field.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 10:02:15 GMT
Friday: going, weather & non-runners Dundalk (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy Huntingdon GOING: SOFT (GoingStick 5.9) (Rail movements: R1 & 6 +89y, R2 & 4 +75y, R3 +28y, R5 +22y) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:30 Sporty Yankee (6) 2:00 Arian (14) Lingfield (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy STALLS: 1m & 5f - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 12:50 Imperial Red (3) 1:20 Fintech (6) 1:50 Black Dave (6) Newcastle (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Mostly cloudy STALLS: Centre NON RUNNERS: 6:45 Jallota (1) Sedgefield GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places; GoingStick: Chase 6.3, Hurdle 6.2) (Rail movements: R1 & 2 -45y, R3 +49y, R4 & 6 -37y, R5 +68y) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:40 Scorpo (6) 2:40 Modulus (5) 3:40 Snougar (5)
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 10:02:58 GMT
BANKER
Dark Alliance (1.20 Lingfield)
Making a quick reappearance having comfortably won an apprentice handicap four days ago under today's jockey Ed Greatrex, he gets in without a penalty and this looks a virtual penalty kick. It would be a surprise if he wasn't sent off odds-on for this contest given the form of his opponents and how well treated Daniel Loughnane's runner is, and any sign of 11-10 or bigger should be considered supreme value for favourite backers.
5/6 Dark Alliance 1:20 Lingfield (AW) IRISH ANGLE
Danz Gift (5.00 Dundalk)
Sheila Lavery's seven-year-old is another to fall into the well-handicapped category as the three-time winner has been dropped to a lowly mark of 60 despite running with credit the last twice – his last two victories have come off marks of 60 and 67. Sent off the 4-1 favourite two starts back over this course and distance, he was never given a chance to get in the race with jockey Killian Hennessy giving him far too much to do, but he stayed on eyecatchingly to finish seventh, while he was short of room the whole way up the straight last time. He should go seriously close today if he gets the breaks.
9/2 Danz Gift 5:00 Dundalk (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 Jan 12, 2018 10:03:38 GMT
Newmarket: David Milnes
Mansfield (7.15 Newcastle, nap)
Micheal Wigham’s handicapper is unfortunate not to have collected this winter after twice being denied in photo finishes. The straight seven furlongs should play to his strengths and stall ten looks ideal.
11/2 Mansfield 7:15 Newcastle (AW) Others to follow Lingfield: 12.20 Swiss Vinnare, 12.50 Global Angel, 1.20 Exit Europe, 1.50 Luna Magic, 2.20 Mystique Moon, 3.20 Envisaging Newcastle: 5.45 Agent Error, 6.15 Wiff Waff, 6.45 My Target, 7.45 Mosseyb
Lambourn: James Burn
Style De Garde (3.00 Huntingdon, nap)
This striking French import made a pleasing British debut at Newbury last month and can give in-form trainer Nicky Henderson a third win in the last seven runnings of this race.
10/11 Style De Garde 3:00 Huntingdon Others to follow Huntingdon: 2.00 Turtle Wars, 3.30 Terrefort, 4.00 The Vocalist. Lingfield: 12.50 Isoletta, 1.20 Passing Star, 2.20 Early Morning, 3.20 Karijini, 3.50 Look Surprised. Newcastle: 6.45 Jallota.
North: Colin Russell
Kings Eclipse (3.10 Sedgefield, nap)
Made a successful debut over fences with a convincing win over C&D last month, and although up in the weights is fancied to follow up.
7/4 Kings Eclipse 3:10 Sedgefield Others to follow Lingfield: 2.20 Right Touch, 3.20 Nautical Haven, 3.50 Jorvik Prince. Newcastle: 5.45 The British Lion, 6.15 Ideal Spirit, 7.15 Waarif, 7.45 Dubai Acclaim, 8.15 Novabridge. Sedgefield: 1.10 Main Fact, 1.40 Henry's Joy, 2.10 Castletown, 2.40 Canny Style, 3.40 Windsor Avenue.
West Country: Tim Mitchell
Gumball (3.00 Huntingdon, nap)
A little disappointing behind Apple's Shakira at Cheltenham in November after a highly promising start but the stable were soon to encounter a lean period. With the Philip Hobbs team back among the winners this four-year-old sets a decent standard and commands plenty of respect.
6/4 Gumball 3:00 Huntingdon Others to follow Huntingdon: 2.00 Leapaway.
Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Dory (4.00 Huntingdon, nap)
Shaped well behind fair sort Banjo Girl on last month's Fakenham hurdling debut and, with the step up in trip expected to suit, this looks a good opportunity for her to go one better.
4/1 Dory 4:00 Huntingdon Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Mystique Moon (2.20 Lingfield)
May just have needed the run when favourite but finished only fourth here twelve days ago and Charlie Appleby's four-year-old is well worth another chance.
15/8 Mystique Moon 2:20 Lingfield (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Prettylittlething (1.30 Huntingdon)
Not been firing on all cylinders lately, but has winning form at this track and will handle the ground, so she cannot be overlooked.
8/1 Prettylittlething 1:30 Huntingdon Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Guanabara Bay (7.30 Dundalk)
A course winner over six furlongs last winter, the Ado McGuinness-trained five-year-old went close over tonight’s seven furlong trip on his most recent visit to the track last month, finishing well and failing by a head to catch Mokhalad. Robbie Downey’s mount can overcome his high draw in the apprentice handicap.
11/4 Guanabara Bay 7:30 Dundalk (AW) Raceform Interactive nugget
Pauline Robson has only visited Sedgefield on 24 occasions since 2003, but has come away with 7 winners (30% +£6.83). Her only runner there on Friday is Castletown in the 2.10.
3/1 Castletown 2:10 Sedgefield 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 12, 2018 10:04:12 GMT
Dan Skelton has a particularly good record when he runs his horses in a first-time tongue strap and he does so with Maire Banrigh at Huntingdon (2.00). This well-regarded King’s Theatre mare should now be able to put her best foot forward.
Adam Kirby is riding very well at present and has a 27 per cent strike-rate with his rides for the past two weeks. He has four rides at Lingfield today, the pick being Imperial Red (12.50). He represents trainer William Haggas, who does very well when running horses in first-time blinkers.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 13:26:06 GMT
SATURDAY.
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:50 WARWICK Betfred Home Of Goals Galore Hampton Novices' Chase (Listed Race) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m ITV4 2:05 KEMPTON 32Red Casino Chase (Listed Race) Cl1 (5yo+) 2m4½f ITV4 2:25 WARWICK Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Series Qualifier) Cl2 (5yo+) 3m1f ITV4 2:40 KEMPTON 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV4 3:00 WARWICK Ballymore Leamington Novices' Hurdle (Grade 2) Cl1 (5yo+) 2m5f ITV4 3:15 KEMPTON 32Red.com Handicap Chase Cl2 (5yo+ 0-150) 3m ITV4 3:35 WARWICK Betfred Classic Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m5f ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 13:26:34 GMT
SATURDAY.
SCOOP 6 12:40 WARWICK Betfred Supports Jack Berry House Novices' Handicap Hurdle Cl4 (4yo+ 0-110) 2m RUK 1:30 KEMPTON 32Red Download The App Handicap Chase Cl3 (5yo+ 0-140) 2m4½f RUK 2:25 WARWICK Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Series Qualifier) Cl2 (5yo+) 3m1f ITV4 2:40 KEMPTON 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV4 2:50 WETHERBY totescoop6 Results On totepoolliveinfo.com Handicap Hurdle Cl3 (4yo+ 0-140) 2m3½f RUK 3:35 WARWICK Betfred Classic Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m5f ITV4
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 18:45:10 GMT
Lingfield Park, 12 Jan 18 Race 1 - 12:20pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Edward Greatrex reported that TURNBURY, placed fifth, hung left-handed throughout, Phil McEntee reported that SWISS VINNARE, placed fourth, did not stay the 1 mile 4 furlong trip and the Veterinary Officer reported that RETRIEVE (AUS), placed second, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 2 - 12:50pm THE 32Red.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for FELISA to be mounted on the chute.
Approaching the final half furlong, THE NIGHT KING, placed fifth, was accidentally struck across the nose by the whip of Tom Marquand, the rider of OCEAN SIDE, placed sixth, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Race 4 - 1:50pm THE PLAY SLOTS AT sunbets.co.uk/vegas HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) (DIV II) LUNA MAGIC, trained by Lydia Pearce was late in the Parade Ring, due to the filly having to be re-saddled.
Charles Bishop, the rider of BOBBY BENTON (IRE) had fallen on the bend turning into the home straight. After viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no other horse or rider was involved and the incident was caused by injuries sustained by BOBBY BENTON (IRE).
Approaching the final furlong, KINGSLEY KLARION (IRE), placed seventh, edged right as NO APPROVAL (IRE), placed fifth, shifted left away from the whip, causing Simon Pearce, the rider of LUNA MAGIC, placed eighth, to take a check, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race, Simon Pearce reported that LUNA MAGIC, placed eighth, suffered interference approaching the final furlong and Racheal Kneller reported that SEEK THE FAIR LAND, unplaced, was slowly away and hung badly right-handed throughout.
Race 5 - 2:20pm THE PLAY STARBURST SLOT AT sunbets.co.uk/vegas HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Kieran O’Neill, the rider of UNFORGIVING MINUTE, was slow to remove the blindfold resulting in his horse being slow to start. After being interviewed and shown recordings of the incident, O’Neill’s explanation that the blind became caught on the bridle and required two attempts to remove was noted.
Race 6 - 2:50pm THE BETWAY CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6) MONUMENTAL MAN, ridden by William Carson and trained by Michael Atxxxxer had planted on the way to the post and had to be led riderless. The trainer was interviewed. Taking into consideration that the gelding was also unruly and had to be led riderless to post at Chelmsford City on 28 September 2017, Atxxxxer was informed that any future similar behaviour from the gelding may result in it being reported to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
MORACHE MUSIC, ridden by Liam Keniry and trained by Patrick Chamings had planted on the way to the post and had to be led riderless. The trainer’s representative was interviewed. Taking into consideration that the gelding was also unruly and had to be led riderless to post at Windsor on 23 October 2017, Chamings’ representative was informed that any future similar behaviour from the gelding may result in it being reported to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
Following the race, Charles Bishop reported that FIVE STAR FRANK, placed seventh, was never travelling and William Carson reported that MONUMENTAL MAN, placed third, hung badly right-handed.
Race 8 - 3:50pm THE BETWAY APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for HURRICANE ALERT to go early to post. View Stewards report Huntingdon, 12 Jan 18 Fixture Note An enquiry was held following concerns raised by the Veterinary Officer regarding the poor condition of a sampling box. The Veterinary Officer, the Clerk of the Course and the Inspector of Courses were interviewed. A report was forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority for further consideration. Race 1 - 1:30pm THE SMARKETS CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, JUST SO COOL (IRE), lost its right fore shoe.
Race 2 - 2:00pm THE SMARKETS EBF 'NATIONAL HUNT' MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Qualifier) The performance of LEAPAWAY (IRE), which finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Philip Hobbs explained that the gelding was unsuited by the going, which was officially described as Soft, and in their opinion, was very tacky. LEAPAWAY (IRE) was routine tested.
Race 3 - 2:30pm THE SMARKETS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) The performance of DYLANSEOGHAN (IRE) which was pulled up, was considered. Zoe Davison could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. DYLANSEOGHAN (IRE) was routine tested.
Following the race, Mark Grant reported that HEPIJEU (FR), placed fifth, whipped around at the start, losing several lengths as a result.
Race 5 - 3:30pm THE SMARKETS STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 3) Permission was given for EXITAS (IRE) to go early to post.
Race 6 - 4:00pm THE SMARKETS MARES' MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following this race, an enquiry was held to determine how ATTRACTIVE LIASON (IRE), trained by Neil Mulholland, which reared up in the Parade Ring and got loose, was able to leave the Parade Ring and enter a public enclosure on the racecourse. The Clerk of the Course was interviewed. The Clerk of the Course stated that the mare had trotted across the Parade Ring and was able to follow a pedestrian through the chicaned entrance used by people. He added that an incident of this nature had not occurred at Huntingdon before and until todays incident, he had believed the entrance to be too tight for a horse to fit through. His explanation was noted. View Stewards report Sedgefield, 12 Jan 18 Race 1 - 1:10pm THE WILLS PROPERTY SERVICES HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Victor Thompson was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of DOLLY’S DOT (IRE) did not comply with the Rules of Racing.
The Clerk of the Scales reported that Mr D. Delahunt, the rider of DOLLY’S DOT (IRE), placed sixth, trained by Victor Thompson, had weighed in at 10st 2lbs having weighed out at 10st. The rider, the trainer and the Clerk of the Scales were interviewed. Mr D. Delahunt was suspended for 1 day for weighing in at 2lb overweight, having had a drink of water after weighing out.
The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination, during routine testing, of MAIN FACT (USA), which was pulled up, revealed the gelding had an irregular heartbeat.
Race 2 - 1:40pm THE BETFRED NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Betfred Hurdle Series Qualifier) Having reviewed the start, the Stewards were satisfied that TAB HOGARTH (IRE) had refused to race and was deemed to be a runner.
The Starter reported that TAB HOGARTH, ridden by Colm McCormack and trained by Kenneth Slack had refused to race. The rider, the trainer and the Starter were interviewed and shown recordings of the start. Slack was informed that any future similar behaviour from the gelding may result in the horse being reported to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
Following the race, Kenny Johnson reported that BEAU SANCY (FR), placed fourth, had a breathing problem and the Veterinary Officer reported that HENRY’S JOY (IRE), placed second, had lost its left fore shoe.
Race 5 - 3:10pm THE WINDPOWER ENERGY RESOURCES HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) (Qualifier for the Northern Lights Staying Chase Series) An enquiry was held to consider the placings in this race after possible interference from jumping the second last fence to the line when the winner HEDGEINATOR (IRE), ridden by James Bowen, interfered with KING’S ECLIPSE (IRE), placed second. The Stewards considered that the interference had not improved HEDGEINATOR (IRE)’s placing as the momentum lost on the run to the line was less than the winning distance of a length and HEDGEINATOR (IRE) was always holding KING’S ECLIPSE (IRE). Bowen was suspended for 2 days for careless riding as he had failed to ride the configuration of the track when insufficiently clear, causing KING’S ECLIPSE (IRE) to be short of room on the rail.
Race 6 - 3:40pm THE HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM PAXTONS STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) Sara Ender was fined £80 as the record of vaccinations on the passport of IVOR THE FOX had been altered. View Stewards report Newcastle, 12 Jan 18 Race 1 - 5:45pm THE 32Red CASINO HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Andrew Mullen reported that SHADES OF MIST, placed sixth, ran too free.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 18:48:56 GMT
One trainer . . . Anthony Honeyball
It could be a big day for Honeyball at Warwick, with Cresswell Breeze among the favourites for the Betfred Classic Chase (3.40 ITV4/RUK) and the hat-trick seeking Ms Parfois arguably the main danger to Duel At Dawn in the Betfred Home of Goals Galore Hampton Novices' Chase (1.50 ITV4/RUK).
Honeyball is only eight winners shy of surpassing his best season and his horses have been running well throughout the season, with 12 winners from 39 runners since the start of December, a statistic that improves to two from five since the turn of the year.
The trainer might want to watch the 32Red.com Handicap Chase (3.15 ITV4/RUK) at Kempton through his fingers, given Fountains Windfall bids for redemption after falling when going ominously well in each of two recent starts in novice company.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 18:49:35 GMT
Brian Hughes.
The north's finest is at Kempton rather than Wetherby or Warwick, primarily to renew his alliance with the Malcolm Jefferson-trainer Waiting Patiently, who lines up in the Listed 32Red Chase at 2.05 (ITV4/RUK). It is slightly surprising more trainers haven't chosen to make use of his rare trip south – Hughes only has three rides against his name at Kempton in the last five years – but Richard Newland wasn't slow to jock up Hughes on Le Patriote, who makes his debut for the yard in the 32Red Lanzarote Hurdle at 2.40 (ITV4/RUK).
Le Patriote was rated 135 by the French handicapper on his penultimate start but gets in off 127 here at a track which will ride more like the speed-favouring venues such as Enghien and Compiegne.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 18:51:09 GMT
A winning pointer in Ireland, Mr Whipped defied a penalty at Newbury last time when seeing off Gowiththeflow in determined fashion to make it two from two since joining Nicky Henderson. Mr Whipped looks to take the next step in his education at Warwick in the Grade 2 Ballymore Novices' Hurdle (3.00 ITV4/RUK), a race won by Willoughby Court last season and The New One back in 2013, both of whom went on to score over this intermediate trip of 2m5f at the festival.
Mr Whipped is currently a best-priced 33-1 for the Ballymore Properties over that trip on the Wednesday, but is no bigger than 20-1 for the Albert Bartlett over three miles on the Friday.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 12, 2018 18:52:05 GMT
2.10 Punchestown.
The chaotic nature of Mengli Khan's exit through the wing of the penultimate hurdle in a Grade 1 at Leopardstown over Christmas ensures there is already plenty of interest in the Sky Bet Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle. Throw in two of last season's leading bumper horses in the Willie Mullins-trained Getabird and Carter McKay and you have an enticing contest.
It's probably worth mentioning that recent Mullins winners include Mikael D'Haguenet, Vautour, Douvan and Min, and we suggest you'll be referring to this race on Racing Post Replays plenty of times in the next eight weeks and beyond.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 13, 2018 9:05:58 GMT
in today's sporting life............... Ben Linfoot seeks out the best Value Bets in the big handicaps at Warwick and Kempton on Saturday afternoon and he has three tips at big prices. Recommended Bets Value Bet, January 13 It’s an excellent renewal of the 32Red Lanzarote Hurdle at Kempton (2.40) on Saturday with plenty of quality and potential on show. I must admit, I didn’t think I’d be in any rush to take on the likes of River Frost, William Henry and Diese Des Bieffes as that trio in particular have very strong claims, but their presence at the top of the market has pushed out some of the mid-tier chances to some tantalising odds. Spiritofthegames was on the radar at 14s as he ran well at the track on Boxing Day in 2016 and has improved since, winning twice from just two subsequent starts including at Lingfield at the end of November. The form of that race is nothing special, but he’s unexposed and looks to have been saved for a crack at the Lanzarote and the same can be said for Bags Groove, a horse that hasn’t been sighted since he beat The Last Samuri here in the middle of November. I Shot The Sheriff was also on the shortlist after an eye-catching first run for Fergal O’Brien last time. He travelled really well at Newbury, trading as low as 2.66 in-running on Betfair, but was pulled up after losing a shoe and standing on it. At 20/1 he could be worth another chance but I was drawn to two at even bigger odds, starting with DENTLEY DE MEE at 33/1 (Coral) for Nick Williams. Williams has an exceptional record in this race, winning it three times in the last seven years, but his best chance this year (he also has Man From Mars at 40/1) looks to have been underestimated probably because of an 11lb rise in the weights since his last run at Ludlow. However, I felt that raise was fully justified and the form is working out as if it was. The winner by a head, Galactic Power, a horse that was receiving 24lb from Dentley De Mee, was second of 15 off 8lb higher at Huntingdon on Boxing Day, while he was placed in an amateur riders’ race, giving an amateur her first ride, off 12lb higher back at Ludlow the other day. Meanwhile, the third, Bright Tomorrow, a horse beaten 10 lengths by Dentley De Mee getting 6lb, came out and ran a close second in a handicap at Wetherby on Boxing Day, pulling 17 lengths clear of the third. It looks solid form and Dentley De Mee looks well worth chancing in a higher grade from a low weight. He hurdled really nicely when stepped up in trip at Ludlow and rallied once challenged by the winner. He looks to have plenty more to offer yet, is hugely unexposed at the distance and looks underestimated at 33/1 for a trainer that targets his best horses at this contest. At similar odds (28/1 General) DINO VELVET is worth chancing for Alan King and Wayne Hutchinson. He had some strong form to his name as a juvenile and returned in a good race at Chepstow that has worked out okay thanks to the exploits of the first two home, Silver Streak and Dolos. Dino Velvet came out of that race and stepped up in trip at Newbury, where he was sent off 14/1 but traded at 4/1 in-running after travelling up smoothly with a quarter-of-a-mile to go. He couldn’t go through with his effort in the end, but it gave plenty of hope that he can improve his form at this sort of trip and I think a proper gallop could help him travel into things nicely on Saturday as they went a bit of a dawdle last time. I’m also intrigued to see him going right-handed again, as he’s only been clockwise twice before, winning by eight lengths at Sandown and finishing second at Ludlow. I like Hutchinson on this type of horse and if he gets the breaks and times his challenge well, I’m sure Dino Velvet can outrun his big odds. Finally, it’s the Betfred Classic Handicap Chase at Warwick and this is going to be hard work over 3m5f in what looks like being tacky ground. This will be all about which horse gets into the best rhythm and that’s tough to predict, but at the odds I thought previous winner RUSSE BLANC was a big price at 20/1 (General). Kerry Lee’s horses are in terrific form and she has three chances in this race, but while Krackatoa King and Goodtoknow looked about right in the market I just can’t have Russe Blanc as the outsider of the field. He jumped beautifully on the first circuit at Cheltenham last time, but lost his confidence after fiddling over the water jump and the mistakes crept in after that. He’ll have to cut those out if he’s to win this again, but a couple of factors could help him do so. Firstly, Charlie Poste returns to ride the horse for the first time in 10 starts, and, while Russe Blanc is 0/14 for other jockeys, he’s 5/21 for Poste. Secondly the handicapper has given him a chance, dropping him to a mark of 125, his lowest for over two years and 2lb lower than when victorious in the 2016 renewal of this race. We know he likes the track, the test and the ground. Getting weight from everything, the white horse could well become the first dual winner of the race if he manages to cut out the mistakes under his favourite pilot. Posted at 1700 GMT on 12/01/18. Ben Linfoot's Value Bet aim: The Value Bet is designed to generate long-term profit by searching for overpriced horses in the feature weekend races and at the big Festivals in the UK. Running total: +372.89pts to advised stakes/prices (from inception of Value Bet column in January 2010 to current).
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Post by dennisg on Jan 13, 2018 9:07:44 GMT
Competitive and open handicaps take top billing this weekend with racing likely to be fascinating viewing for those hoping to pick a contender for future stardom. Live action on ITV4 comes in the form of seven races from Warwick and Kempton Park, with a selection of eye-catching handicap renewals. These cards 12 months ago saw victories for future Neptune Novices’ Hurdle winner Willoughby Court, Harry Fry’s star American and Randox Health Grand National hero One For Arthur. The novice hurdle won by Willoughby Court this time last year and the race days’ positioning in the calendar leading into Cheltenham demonstrate how the meetings can throw up a potential Festival winner, or at least a horse with a very viable chance. The 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton looks strong and the day is full of big priced fields – I’m really looking forward to it. The Opening Show will help set up what should be a thoroughly entertaining day from 9.30am on ITV4 before the afternoon coverage gets underway on the same channel at 1.30pm. Take a look at who I’m backing this weekend in my Yankee: 1350 Warwick, Betfred Home Of Goals Galore Hampton Novices’ Chase, 3m Flintham has got work to do to reverse his form with Dual At Dawn last time out, where the Alex Hales-trained eight-year-old won by 16 lengths at Exeter. However, that was the Grade 2 runner-up’s first run of the season and he will come on for that. Flintham is a quirky horse but if he gets into a rhythm I can see him being tough to beat. This will be a tactical race but I can just see him getting ahead under Nico de Boinville, taking on a ‘catch me if you can’ approach. If his rivals aren’t wise to that then that will allow Flintham to go on and they will struggle to claw back that deficit. 1425 Warwick, Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle, 3m 1f I thought Sykes ran a brilliant race at Cheltenham on his most recent appearance when he was just reeled in by Arthur’s Gift. Nicky Martin’s gelding made an early move and kicked for home a fair way out on that day and was caught in the dying strides. If he is ridden a bit more conservatively on Saturday he will be able to prove himself better handicapped. He has been put up 4lbs in for that run at Prestbury, which I think is perfectly fair. If Sykes is ridden with more patience he will go well and show just how good a bet I think he is. 1440 Kempton Park, The 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle, 2m 5f The horse I like in this is William Henry. He jumped terribly on his last run when he was pulled up at Cheltenham in November and didn’t have much scope over fences, showing he’s just not a chaser. This is a compelling return to hurdles, over which he was a good winner in a novices’ race at Jumps HQ in April. The eight-year-old was runner-up to Wholestone in last January’s Grade 2 Neptune trial, finishing in front of Poetic Rhythm who has since gone on to win a Grade 1. All in all, that’s decent form. He’s a very talented hurdler in handicap company on the back of a disappointing showing over fences. I think he’s at the very least going to go pretty close with jockey of the moment James Bowen taking off a valuable 5lbs. 1535 Warwick, Betfred Classic Handicap Chase, 3m 5f 54y Missed Approach ran really well in the Ladbrokes Trophy, basically bowling along out front and proving that he’s a different beast over the larger obstacles by coming alive. He went as low as 3-1 in the in-running betting, which gives you an indication of how brilliantly he performed when going off as a 20-1 shot beforehand. Warren Greatrex’s eight-year-old has inexplicably been dropped 6lbs in the handicap and I can’t see a reason from that run as to why the handicapper has shaved off that much. I think on that outing alone he’s well-handicapped. Warwick is a track that will suit Missed Approach and I can see him getting into a nice rhythm and really enjoying it. The possibility of him getting taken on for the lead could cause concern, but ultimately that was as much of a worry in the Ladbrokes Trophy where there was good pace as well. Missed Approach enters the race in good form on the back of that Newbury run, he’ll go on any ground and has won on heavy – he ticks every box for me. One For Arthur may not have won off top weight last year, but subsequently showed at Aintree that you do have to have something about you to win this race. When you tick off the other entries one by one against Missed Approach it’s quite black and white that he’s better than the other horses. It’s almost too good to be true.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 13, 2018 9:09:28 GMT
Chris Wilson sides with Nigel Twiston-Davies' Cogry in the Betfred Classic Chase at Warwick - and has a tip for every race. Cogry can enjoy his day in the staying spotlight by winning the Classic Chase at Warwick. Nigel Twiston-Davies has this season become the go-to guy in big Saturday handicaps, and the Naunton handler must be relatively optimistic of another sizeable payday in this Grade Three. That is because Cogry is a very useful operator, having perhaps most notably finished a neck second to Vicente in last season's Scottish National. He has also been placed in a Midlands National, so punters can be safe in the knowledge he will have the stamina for this battle. Cogry was pulled up in the Ladbrokes Trophy on his last start in December, but he is probably not good enough to win a race of that quality so that performance is perhaps best forgotten. It would, then, be more beneficial with the Classic Chase in mind to focus upon his rousing display at Cheltenham in October when he won a three-mile-one-furlong handicap chase by four lengths. The nine-year-old is now higher in the weights, of course, but at least Jamie Bargary takes off 3lb, whereas Sam Twiston-Davies did the steering at Cheltenham. Cogry can never be entirely trusted in the jumping department, but he has won before over fences at Warwick and this looks an ideal fit for him at this stage of the season. Topofthegame looks a worthy ally in the 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton. The six-year-old chestnut is all about potential, having raced just four times since his transfer from Ireland last March, and is held in pretty high regard by Paul Nicholls. Topofthegame also has the profile to become a solid chaser, but he fell on his fencing debut at Newbury last month. He had done well until that late mistake, however, so there are clearly going to be other days for him. Yet before he goes back chasing, it makes perfect sense to have a go at a race like the Lanzarote, in which he runs off a mark of 139. Topofthegame won a maiden hurdle at Ascot over a similar sort of trip and has also done well when the mud is flying. It will be very interesting to see how he gets on in a particularly open renewal of the valuable Listed handicap. Good Flat stuff at Lingfield, where the likeable Boom The Groom should kick on in the Betway Sprint Handicap. Tony Carroll's seven-year-old has not won for an age but he is weighted accordingly. Indeed, he ought to be a wee bit sharper than at Chelmsford earlier in the month, when a fine second to Udontdodou on what was his first start since last September. Sporting Life suggestions: KEMPTON: 12.20 Redicean, 12.55 Duke Debarry, 1.30 Bishops Court, 2.05 Josses Hill, 2.40 Topofthegame, 3.15 Fountains Windfall, 3.45 Charming Zen. LINGFIELD: 12.15 Every Chance, 12.50 Lady Perignon, 1.25 Boom The Groom, 2.00 Goring, 2.35 Cliffs Of Capri, 3.10 Sheer Intensity, 3.40 Taste The Salt. PUNCHESTOWN: 12.25 Aranhill Rascal, 1.00 Arbre De Vie, 1.35 Without Limites, 2.10 Getabird, 2.45 Impact Factor, 3.20 A Hardy Nailer, 3.50 Iamastartoo. WARWICK: 12.40 Ardmayle, 1.15 Azzuri, 1.50 Flintham, 2.25 Sykes, 3.00 Mr Whipped, 3.35 COGRY (NAP), 4.05 Baby Ted. WETHERBY: 12.30 Noble Robin, 1.05 Mortens Leam, 1.40 Perseid, 2.15 Just Cameron, 2.50 Morning Royalty, 3.25 Hargam, 3.55 Fforbidden Love. WOLVERHAMPTON: 5.45 Muthraab Aldaar, 6.15 Dellaguista, 6.45 Indian Red, 7.15 Monte Cinq, 7.45 The Amber Fort, 8.15 Cool Spirit, 8.45 Gift In Time, 9.15 Prince Consort. DOUBLE: Cogry and Topofthegame.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 13, 2018 9:11:20 GMT
Racing commentator Simon Holt provides three selections for Saturday's TV racing at Kempton and Warwick. Simon Holt's best bets For details of advised bookmakers and each-way terms, visit our transparent tipping record DIESE DES BIEFFES looks likely to start favourite for Saturday's 32Red Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle at Kempton, and there is every reason to believe that Nicky Henderson's novice is well weighted. Successful in his first two starts this season at Fontwell and Taunton, beating subsequent winners Highway One O One and Show On The Road respectively, the five-year-old was then raised in class on Boxing Day when splitting leading Supreme Novices' Hurdle fancy If The Cap Fits and Solomon Grey over just two miles on this course. It is easy to think that Diese Des Bieffes will be well suited by this step up trip as he got a little outpaced that day after three out before rallying bravely from the second last. A mark of 135 could well underestimate him as there is a strong case that If The Cap Fits (145) and Solomon Grey (130) should be rated higher based on their previous victories and, with Henderson deciding to take another 5lb off by using rising conditional Mitch Bastyan for the first time, the selection appears to have obvious claims. Henderson also runs William Henry who returns to hurdling after jumping badly right on his debut over fences at Cheltenham in November. A useful novice over hurdles last term, he is quite closely weighted with Topofthegame (fourth) on his second to the smart Wholestone back at Cheltenham a year ago, a race in which the Challow Hurdle winner Poetic Rhythm finished third. The hugely promising James Bowen takes the mount, but I think William Henry's stable companion looks better handicapped. Topofthegame, a tall horse with any amount of potential, also switches to hurdles after a fall (when travelling well) on his chase debut at Newbury in early November and, on his neck second to subsequent Aintree runner-up Beyond Conceit at Ascot (level weights) last February (probably an improvement on his Cheltenham effort), he could be well in as, not only the winner, but De Dollar Man (third), Acting Lass (fourth) and Tintern Theatre (fifth) have all done well since. With Beyond Conceit now rated 145, there is every chance that his rating of 139 is lenient. Interestingly, Topofthegame's easy nine-length point-to-point win at Belclare in March, 2016 came at the expense of No Hassle Hoff and Brave Eagle, now rated 141 and 136 respectively. Of the others, dual course winner River Frost looks sure to be thereabouts after staying on well over a slightly shorter trip behind Court Minstrel and the much-improved Sam Spinner at Chepstow in October. In addition, Alan King's likeable gelding was far from disgraced when beaten just over eight lengths into ninth behind Supasundae in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham last March. At Warwick, in-form mare CRESSWELL BREEZE is taken to land the Betfair Classic Handicap Chase. Successful at Fontwell on her reappearance in November when beating subsequent winner Cyclop and Rathlin Rose (a creditable sixth in last week's Welsh National), Sean Bowen's mount had every chance in the London National at Sandown just under three weeks later until going through the final fence. Turning for home that day, Cresswell Breeze and eventual winner Benbens kicked clear of their rivals suggesting they were the best horses in the race with Sugar Baron eventually running on late to split them and Topper Thornton finishing fifth. The selection's trainer Anthony Honeyball continues to enjoy an excellent season. Earlier, SYKES can continue his resurgence for trainer Nicky Martin by landing the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle. A winner in the heavy at Ffos Las in November, the nine-year-old was then collared close home by Arthur's Gift at Cheltenham. The latter let down the form next time, as did third-placed Jester Jet, but they both came into that race on a roll and fourth-placed Shantou Bob was a very good second to Flemcara at Chepstow last week.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 13, 2018 9:57:58 GMT
Saturday: going, weather & non-runners Kempton GOING: Hurdle course - SOFT (Good to soft in places); Chase course - GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) (GoingStick: Hdl 5.1, Chs 5.9) (Rail movements: R1 & 7 +52y, R2 +95y, R3 & 4 +38y, R5 +75y, R6 +48y) WEATHER: Cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:30 Exitas (3) Lingfield (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy STALLS: 1m - Outside; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 12:15 Sandacres (4)Epicurious (5) 2:00 Mr Scaramanga (2) 3:10 Fairy Mist (12) 3:40 Outrath (12)Ixelles Diamond (7)Idol Deputy (1) Punchestown GOING: SOFT TO HEAVY WEATHER: Rain Warwick GOING: SOFT (Good to soft in places on Chase course; GoingStick: Chs 6.6, Hdl 6.3) (Hurdle & NHF races will be run on the Inner Hurdle course) (Rail movements: R1 & 7 -57y, R4 -113y, R5 -83y) WEATHER: Cloudy NON RUNNERS: 12:40 Stonecoldsoba (3) 3:35 Itstimeforapint (15)Emperor's Choice (8) Wetherby GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places; GoingStick: Chs 5.0, Hdl 5.2) (Rail movements: R1, 2, 5 & 6 +195y, R3, 4 & 7 +123y) WEATHER: Light rain NON RUNNERS: 1:05 Dark Valley (4) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy STALLS: Inside
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 13, 2018 9:58:38 GMT
BANKER
Diese Des Bieffes (2.40 Kempton)
I thought Diese Des Bieffes had 'Lanzarote winner' written all over him given the way he finished when second to Supreme Novices' Hurdle hope If The Cap Fits at Kempton over Christmas and he will surely take plenty of beating with Mitchell Bastyan taking off 5lb. He finished really strongly last time and is bred for massive improvement over the extra trip. (Paul Kealy)
5/1 Diese Des Bieffes 2:40 Kempton EYECATCHER
Kasbah (1.25 Lingfield)
Down to a mark of 91 on the all-weather, which he can clearly win off given past exploits, Kasbah looks a good bet in the feature Betway Sprint Handicap under Jack Mitchell. He has a clear love for the all-weather (in the first three on nine of 16 starts) and proved he's at the top of his game with a staying on effort behind a well-handicapped rival at the end of last month. (Tom Collins)
11/2 Kasbah 1:25 Lingfield (AW) GOOD THING
Waiting Patiently (2.05 Kempton)
Tackling the likes of God's Own, Josses Hill and Smad Place will represent Waiting Patiently toughest task to date but their presence should ensure Malcolm Jefferson's seven-year-old goes off a backable price and he is the one here on the up. Last season's defeat of Politolgue looks decent now while the bare form of his reappearance win in a four-runner Listed event at Carlisle also looks stronger than it did at the time. (Kevin Morley)
13/8 Waiting Patiently 2:05 Kempton 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 13, 2018 9:59:16 GMT
West Country: Tim Mitchell
Cresswell Breeze (3.35 Warwick, nap)
She put up a good effort in defeat at Sandown last time after a successful reapearance in the Southern National at Fontwell. Her current mark isn't beyond her and she's fancied to give another good account on a big day for the Anthony Honeyball stable.
Others to follow Kempton 12.20 Vaziani, 12.55 Secret Investor, 1.30 Bishops Court, 2.40 Bags Groove, 3.15 Fountains Windfall. Warwick 12.40 Admiral Kid, 1.50 Ms Parfois, 2.25 Sykes. Wetherby 2.50 Westend Story, 3.25 Crown Hill.
9/1 Cresswell Breeze 3:35 Warwick Lambourn: James Burn
Mr Whipped (3.00 Warwick, nap)
Unbeaten in two starts under rules, this well-regarded five-year-old looks set to take another step up the ladder with trip and track in his favour.
Others to follow Kempton 12.20 Redicean, 12.55 Chef Des Obeaux, 2.05 Josses Hill, 2.40 William Henry, 3.45 Charming Zen. Lingfield 12.15 Every Chance, 1.25 Reckless Endeavour, 2.00 Surrey Hope, 2.35 Qassem. Warwick 1.50 Flintham, 2.25 The Organist, 3.35 Missed Approach. Wetherby 1.05 Hogan's Height. Wolverhampton 6.15 Favourite Royal, 7.45 Pulsating, 8.15 Desert Doctor, 8.45 Jonnysimpson.
11/8 Mr Whipped 3:00 Warwick Newmarket: David Milnes
Sacred Act (2.00 Lingfield, nap)
Ran into two decent types in Gulliver and Arcanada here in November but is in good form following a short break and is expected to make it third time lucky for Michael Bell with Jamie Spencer in the plate.
Others to follow Lingfield 12.50 Stosur, 1.25 Human Nature, 3.10 Sunset Bounty, 3.40 Sexy Secret. Wolverhampton 6.45 Shan Dun Na Ngall, 8.45 Global Academy.
5/2 Sacred Act 2:00 Lingfield (AW) North: Colin Russell
Slanelough (2.50 Wetherby, nap)
Has shown improved form this season, and even though he's on a career-high mark, he handles testing ground, is unexposed at this trip and is fancied to give another good account.
Others to follow Kempton 2.05 Wating Patiently, 2.40 Top Ville Ben, 3.45 Viserion. Lingfield 2.00 Alfred Hutchinson, 2.35 Medici Banchiere. Warwick 1.15 Imjoeking, 1.50 Big River, 2.25 Black Ivory, 3.00 Cave Top. Wetherby 12.30 Silva Eclipse, 1.05 Quietly, 1.40 Skywards Reward, 2.15 Just Cameron, 3.25 Hargam, 3.55 True Ballew. Wolverhampton 5.45 Top Offer, 6.15 Dellaguista, 6.45 New Abbey Angel, 7.15 Amazing Grazing, 7.45 The Amber Fort, 8.45 Emilia James, 9.15 Mr Carbonator.
11/2 Slanelough 2:50 Wetherby Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Krackatoa King (3.35 Warwick)
Is invariably in the mix in stamina tests and Kerry Lee's consistent stayer should again be in the shake-up.
8/1 Krackatoa King 3:35 Warwick Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Viserion (3.45 Kempton, nap)
Up 7lb for last month's Sedgefield win, but still remains well-treated on the pick of his novice form and the cheekpieces he wore with success on the level are fitted for the first time over hurdlers.
8/1 Viserion 3:45 Kempton Longshot: Ed Quigley
Tobefair (2.25 Warwick)
Trip, track and ground will all suit, and can be competitive off a mark of 138 if putting his best foot forward.
16/1 Tobefair 2:25 Warwick Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
The Storyteller (1.00 Punchestown)
The Gordon Elliott-trained seven- year-old got off the mark over fences at the first attempt when scoring comfortably at Fairyhouse last month. The form was boosted by the second and third winning since and Davy Russell’s mount can follow up in today’s Grade 3 event.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 13, 2018 10:01:17 GMT
Jaleo. 2.50 Weth.
Caught the eye when running on late to finish third at Kempton on Boxing Day, and goes to Wetherby instead of the Lanzarote Hurdle.
This looks eminently winnable compared to the Kempton feature, and Jaleo should have too much power in the closing stages for Westend Story.
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Post by Kimmy on Jan 13, 2018 10:01:48 GMT
When Martin Harley rides for Tom Dascombe at Lingfield it’s worth taking note. They have a 100 per cent strike-rate at the venue and team up with Reflektor in the 1.25. He has dropped to a handy mark.
Mick Channon is a trainer in form. He has just the one runner today in Iconic Belle, who runs in the 12.50 at Lingfield. She was an eyecatcher at the course just a week ago and the mile trip shouldn’t pose a problem.
This is a good time of year for trainer Philip Hobbs. He has recorded an above average strike-rate with his runners two weeks either side of today’s date for the past five seasons. He has just one runner today, Westend Story in the 2.50 at Wetherby. He will appreciate the heavy ground.
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Post by dennisg on Jan 14, 2018 8:11:39 GMT
in today's sporting life................ Mr Whipped claimed his third win from as many starts for Nicky Henderson in the Ballymore Leamington Novices' Hurdle at Warwick. Bought for £160,000 after winning an Irish point-to-point last spring, the son of Beneficial made a successful hurdling debut at Kempton in November and followed up in good style at Newbury last month. He was the 6/4 favourite stepped up to Grade Two level and while his supporters had a few anxious moments turning for home, with Mr Whipped briefly caught in a pocket, he got clear daylight early in the straight and looked to have Knight In Dubai well covered on the run to the final flight. Henderson's charge showed signs of inexperience when wandering under pressure and Paisley Park was finishing, but Nico de Boinville bagged the rail aboard the market leader and he passed the post a length to the good. at Cheltenham. De Boinville told ITV Racing: "I was very impressed with him because he's still a big, raw baby. "After he jumped the last he thought that was the job done and started to ease up a bit, but if something had come to me I think he would have gone on again. He had plenty left in the tank. He definitely deserves to (go to Cheltenham). His form is rock solid now." Speaking from Kempton, Henderson's assistant Toby Lawes said: "He was fantastic and he is a horse we like very much. "We started him off over two miles at Kempton and it was too sharp, but it just showed he had that natural ability and then he was fantastic at Newbury the other day. "He has really surprised as he was a horse that was a little bit buzzy when he first came to us. Through the season he has just got fuller and stronger and bigger. He has got lots of scope and could be anything. "There is potential to step him up to three miles, but we have got quite a few nice novice hurdlers between two-and-a-half and three. "Three miles is certainly an option, but it's not a decision we are going to make yet. We will play it by ear and see how much he comes on at home."
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Post by dennisg on Jan 14, 2018 8:13:31 GMT
Getabird did what Vautour, Douvan and Min did before him in the Sky Bet Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle. Our Ben Linfoot reports from Punchestown. It was a cold and windy day at Punchestown. The lack of a sizeable crowd suggested the locals had stayed at home to watch the sport in front of the warm glow of their TV screens. It was probably a good decision, although they might’ve missed seeing a potential Cheltenham Festival winner or two. The sky was no particular colour, you couldn’t even call it grey, but against the backdrop of whatever it was were the famous bright pink silks of Mrs S Ricci, worn by Patrick Mullins today, carried by the new for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Getabird. We’ve been here before. We’ve been here with Vautour, Douvan, Min. Same owner, same trainer, same result – at Punchestown at least. Only Min failed to complete the Sky Bet Moscow Flyer-Sky Bet Supreme double, a certain Altior saw to that. But it’s a tried and tested route. A formula that seems to work. Getabird has completed the first part of the equation in stylish fashion, Patrick’s confident look in behind rounding the home turn emphasising the dominance he had over his rivals on this nippy afternoon. Nine lengths separated Getabird and Mengli Khan at the line. The runner-up saddled a 6lb penalty due to his own impressive win in the Grade One Royal Bond Novice Hurdle back in November, but he would’ve struggled off levels here, even if he’d hurdled the last in more fluent fashion. No, it was hard to be anything but impressed with Getabird. It was the way he did it. He’s got gears and, though he’ll undoubtedly have options at the Cheltenham Festival, the speed he showed in this excellent renewal of the Moscow Flyer makes you think he screams Supreme. View image on TwitterView image on Twitter Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife “Jumping the way he did, he’s got some good horses off the bridle there. I’d say it was a good Supreme trial,” says Willie Mullins after Getabird’s impressive success @punchestownrace 2:34 PM - Jan 13, 2018 Replies 1 1 Retweet 2 2 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Even Mullins admitted that, sort of. “After his first run jumping I was a bit worried but certainly the way he jumped there he’ll be plenty good enough to run in a Supreme Novice,” he said. “He’s jumped fantastic, way better than on his first run. I thought, ‘would he be able to jump at the speed they’re going here’, but, what can you say other than he’s very jumped well, made his own running and that I’m very happy. “All that rain we had last night helped him, but he certainly seemed to have plenty of pace there.” Of course, then comes the caveat. “I don’t know what route we’ll go,” Mullins continued. “That was a good Supreme trial, but he'll be entered in the Ballymore as well. Jumping the way he did, that brings the Supreme Novice into the picture. He’s got some nice horses off the bridle there. If he stays sound it’s fingers crossed.” If Getabird has options, so does another Mullins-trained winner on the card, Invitation Only, a horse that won the new Grade Three Total Event Rental (Kildare) Novice Steeplechase by two-and-a-half-lengths from stablemate Koshari. He’s quoted at 6/1 with Sky Bet for the JLT and at 8/1 for the RSA, with both being viable options. An aggressive ride in the JLT could suit him well, but he’ll clearly stay three miles, too. Either way, he’s a horse that’s clearly getting to grips with the game. Mullins said: “I thought his jumping was very good, he was only idling in front, he has plenty more. “He’s a horse that’s starting to show the promise he showed earlier in his career. It was a nice stepping stone for him. “I haven’t thought about it [his Cheltenham target]. I imagine if he goes to Cheltenham he’ll go straight there, maybe we don’t need to go to the Dublin Festival. “He could go for the longer trip I suppose, he stays, he jumps, he could go either way.” The way his technique over fences is developing, a Black Hercules-style ride from the front end in the JLT could well be the order of the day. But there’s plenty of time for that debate. Let the Willie Mullins guessing games commence. What is for certain is that both Getabird and Invitation Only laid down serious claims for Cheltenham Festival honours this afternoon. It’s Willie Mullins, it’s Punchestown, it’s that time of year. Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🦅 Is it a bird? ✈️ Is it an aeroplane? Possibly both and 4/1 for the @skybet Supreme 2:25 PM - Jan 13, 2018 1 1 Reply 5 5 Retweets 10 10 likes Twitter Ads info and privacy Power happy with Jessie big guns Jessica Harrington was absent from Punchestown. Apparently being a guest at Nicky Henderson’s wedding is more important than picking up the Tipperary crystal trophy for Impact Factor’s win in the Sportinglife.com Maiden Hurdle! Luckily jockey Robbie Power stepped up to the plate and after he’d admired the new bowl for his trophy cabinet he gave us an update on Sizing John, Our Duke and Supasundae, with two of the three set to be in action at the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown on February 3 and 4. The odd one out, of course, is Sizing John, the reigning Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup champion, heading straight to the Festival on the back of a disappointing seventh-placed finish in the Leopardstown Christmas Chase on December 28. “It’s not ideal going there on the back of a defeat,” said Power. “But there’s no worries with him going straight to the Festival. Jessie will have him fit and ready and he’ll be a fresh horse going there this year, last year he wasn’t, so hopefully there will be a bit of improvement. “He’s in great form to be honest. He’s had a quiet couple of weeks after Leopardstown but he’s cantering away again now and doing great.” Stablemate Our Duke, being aimed at the big one at Cheltenham as well, is also on a retrieval mission after his disappointing return at Down Royal. A back problem emerged in the post-race examinations, though, and he’s now back on track ahead of the Irish Gold Cup. Robbie Power after his win in the Sportinglife.com Maiden Hurdle Robbie Power after his win in the Sportinglife.com Maiden Hurdle Power said: “Our Duke’s in fantastic form. He schooled around here after racing on New Year’s Eve and he felt good. The further he went the better he jumped and he had another school at home during the week when he did a piece of work and he schooled. “He feels in great form, he’s working as good as he was going to Fairyhouse last year so he’ll have another racecourse school somewhere and the onto the Irish Gold Cup.” And, finally, there’s Supasundae. Already a Cheltenham Festival winner after his Coral Cup win last year, he’s going for the Sun Bets Stayers’ Hurdle via an unconventional route. He ran a great race when a half-length second to Apple’s Jade in the Squared Financial Christmas Hurdle last time. “We were delighted with Supasundae,” Power said. “He ran a blinder behind Apple’s Jade giving her 7lb as well. “He goes to the Stayers’ Hurdle and he’s going to have an unusual prep by running in the Irish Champion Hurdle but the only option over three miles for him was at Gowran Park and that’ll be very heavy. “You don’t want to pull their heart out before Cheltenham so the Irish Champion Hurdle will sharpen him up and then it will be all systems go for the Stayers’.”
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Post by dennisg on Jan 14, 2018 8:15:15 GMT
Richard Johnson enjoyed a brilliant afternoon's work at Wetherby after riding a 196-1 four-timer. While more high-profile fixtures were taking place at Kempton and Warwick, the champion jockey made the journey north to West Yorkshire and got the day off to a flying start by steering the Jonjo O'Neill-trained Noble Robin (5-2) to a clear-cut victory in the Racing UK Jump To It Novices' Hurdle. It did not take him long to complete a double, with Jamie Snowden's 4-1 shot Hogan's Height making every yard of the running in the Racing UK In Stunning HD 'Confined' Novices' Chase, and the hat-trick was completed by 2-1 favourite Westend Story in the totescoop6 Results On totepoolliveinfo.com Handicap Hurdle, trained by his boss Philip Hobbs. Johnson's fourth winner of the day came aboard Harriet Bethell's 11-4 favourite Newberry New in the Book Now For Medieval Day - 3rd February Handicap Chase and he looked to have a good chance of making it five on the day on John Butler's 11-8 market leader in the concluding Racing UK On Sky 432 Fillies' 'Junior' Standard Open NH Flat Race. However, she had to make do with the a narrow second behind 13-2 chance Maebh, ridden by 5lb claimer Kevin Jones. Johnson said: "It's been a fantastic day. Westend Story was Philip's only runner of the day, so that was the main reason I came up here. "We thought he had a very good chance, so it was great that came off and thankfully Dave Roberts (agent) managed to get me a very good book of rides and we've had four winners, which is great. I can't remember the last four-timer I had, but I know they don't come around too often." The four-timer takes Johnson's tally for the season to 129, some 20 winners clear of his nearest pursuer Harry Skelton in this year's Stobart Jump Jockeys Championship. On being told of his new total, Johnson added: "That sounds about right. As long as I'm in front of everyone else that's all that matters! We've got a day off on Sunday and we'll start again on Monday."
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Post by dennisg on Jan 14, 2018 8:18:32 GMT
Bryony Frost continued her remarkable season - and broke Pick 7 players hearts - by steering Milansbar to victory in the Betfred Classic Handicap Chase at Warwick on Saturday, Remarkably the Neil King-trained 12/1 chance was the only horse in the field that none of the 733 players still alive in the final round of the £50,000 jackpot game had chosen. Frost has been one of the success stories of the season so far, most notably claiming Grade One glory aboard the Paul Nicholls-trained Black Corton in the Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. Her partner here was turning out just a week after unseating Trevor Whelan in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow. Fitted with blinkers for the first time, the 11-year-old raced on the pace throughout and after jumping accurately at each of the fences down the back straight, he had his rivals in deep trouble rounding the sweeping bend for home. Cogry did his best to bridge the gap in the home straight, but Milansbar showed no signs of stopping and passed the post 11 lengths clear under his jubilant rider. Cogry was in turn 12 lengths clear of 9-2 favourite Missed Approach in third. Frost said: "He was awesome. God, he jumped. I was really looking forward to riding him. He's an 11-year-old, but he doesn't know that. He was a bit brave at one down the back, but I thought 'OK, if you want to go brave, let's go brave'. "I got a lovely breather in on the home bend and asked him to go in the straight and he just never stopped. I didn't even have to pick my stick up." Reflecting on the season as a whole, she told ITV Racing: "I'm really lucky. Dave Roberts (agent) and everyone behind me is working really hard to get me on horses like this. I love my job. It's the best world to be in." King was not present, instead enjoying a day's shooting with his brother, but was nevertheless delighted. He said: "That was the real Milansbar today and it was so great to see. "Two years ago we were thinking he could develop into a Grand National horse. He ran a great race to finish second under top-weight in the Midlands National, but then last season he just wasn't right at all. "This year we felt we'd got him back and we went to the Welsh National last week with great expectations. Unfortunately, as they tend to do in that race, they went very quickly to the first bend and he got swamped and rather threw his toys out of the pram. "I wondered whether the race today might be a bit hot for him, but we tried him in the blinkers during the week and he was pretty electric. They certainly seem to have done the trick. "It was Bryony's first ride for me. The owner was quite keen to claim off him and she's given him a great ride."
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