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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:01:10 GMT
MARES’ HURDLE
4.10: GRADE ONE — 2 MILES AND 4 FURLONGS
A race lacking much strength in depth and, given she should have no issue with conditions, the marvellously consistent and admirable APPLE’S JADE is the clear standout. The selection hasn’t been out of the first two in 14 career starts and her victims this season in Grade 1 company include Supersundae and Nichols Canyon. The former is vying for favouritism in the Stayers’ Hurdle yet Apple’s Jade readily repelled his challenge at Leopardstown over Christmas to complete her fifth successive victory. It will take a dip in form for her rivals to trouble her as she looks a stronger mare this year.
Benie Des Dieux represents a stable that has won eight of the last ten renewals and she returns to hurdling after winning all of her three starts over fences for Willie Mullins. Those victories have been achieved with authority and it is difficult to assess how good she could be back over smaller obstacles. Those looking for a solid each-way bet should consider the tough and resilient La Bague Au Roi who represents the home challenge. She jumped beautifully to score at Ascot and looks the real deal this season.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:01:33 GMT
NATIONAL HUNT CHASE
4.50: GRAND TWO — 4 MILES
Gordon Elliott has had a stranglehold on this race in recent seasons courtesy of victories for Tiger Roll, Cause Of Causes and Chicago Grey. In Jury Duty and Mossback, he holds two excellent chances of improving that record. The former sports the tongue tie for the first time which may make a difference as he doesn’t appear to be quite getting home in his races.
Mossback looks the stronger stayer of the duo and kept finding all the way to the line at Navan last time when narrowly beaten by Irish National contender Monbeg Notorious. Both are on the shortlist along with Rathvinden who was going well before falling two out in the Flogas Novices’ Chase at Leopardstown.
The home contingent are also worth seriously considering with SIZING TENNESSEE, partnered by the excellent Barry O’Neill, narrowly preferred to relentless galloper Duel At Dawn. There were six lengths between the pair when they met here over three miles before Christmas and the selection has gone on to run creditably behind Mister Whitaker on Trials Day here in January. Duel At Dawn has been subsequently beaten by Ms Parfois at Warwick, but this war of attrition will suit.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:01:57 GMT
CLOSE BROTHERS CHASE
5.30: HANDICAP — 2 MILES AND 4 FURLONGS
De Plotting Shed has been a long-term fancy for this race in the ante-post betting since the markets opened and connections believe they have a very well handicapped horse, capable of delivering a huge performance.
His claims are tough to resist given the might of his stable, but the market is aware of his chance and there could be a little more juice in the price of MISTER WHITAKER who sits at the foot of the handicap after somehow managing to sneak into this race.
Initially, it looked like the six-year-old was too well handicapped for this event as he required a host of horses to come out to get a run, but he could prove a huge threat to all now he has made the line up. His defeat of the admirable Theatre Territory on Trials Day was achieved in cosy fashion as he pulled himself up when he hit the front and his style of racing should be well suited to Brian Hughes who likes to delay his challenge as late as possible. Any Second Now has been chasing Footpad round all winter which has ensured his rating has been carefully preserved. He looks a big player returning to today’s trip.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:02:21 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:02:49 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:03:20 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:03:53 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:04:23 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:04:43 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:05:10 GMT
SOUTHWELL
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
1.10 Unnoticed
1.45 Best Tamayuz
2.25 Epitaph
3.05 Afandem
3.45 Haddaf
4.25 Kingstreet Lady
5.00 Ochos Rios
GIMCRACK
1.10 African Trader
1.45 Best Tamayuz
2.25 Epitaph
3.05 Crosse Fire
3.45 Haddaf
4.25 Kingstreet Lady
5.00 Reason To Believe
NEWCASTLE
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.45 Thankyou Very Much
6.15 Big Kitten
6.45 Regina Pacis
7.15 Nick Vedder
7.45 Bad Dog
8.15 Dark Alliance
8.45 Windforpower
GIMCRACK
5.45 Indian Red
6.15 Lumi
6.45 Dowitcher
7.15 Nick Vedder
7.45 Odds On Oli
8.15 Deansgate
8.45 Hisar
SEDGEFIELD
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
1.20 The Jam Man
1.55 Pineapple Rush
2.35 Roxyfet
3.15 Pronto Tonto
3.55 Instant Replay
4.35 Always Resolute
5.10 Peters Cousin
GIMCRACK
1.20 The Jam Man
1.55 Lostnfound
2.35 Roxyfet
3.15 Drums Of War
3.55 Instant Replay
4.35 Take A Break
5.10 Peters Cousin
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:10:43 GMT
This is Ante Post In the Cheltenham Gold Cup Partially staked to 50% stake
Account Bet
Cheltenham Gold Cup
Friday - Cheltenham 3.30pm
EDWULF 20/1 +
£3 Win
£2 Place
Half Stakes Today The remaining £5 Stake Will be given nearer the race
25/1 Hills 22/1 Sportingbet Betfair 20/1 Ladbrokes Skybet Unibet Corals 20/1 Boyles Betbright
Cheltenham Gold Cup
EDWULF is 25/1 with Hills He is 20/1 with most firms He is around 22/1 on Betfair
Last night I backed him to win The last review I did on this race I had him on a list of 5 horses Of potential shock winners
Minella Rocco 33/1 Edwulf 25/1 Road to Respect 10/1 Definitely Red 20/1 Double Shuffle 40/1
EDWULF has made the staking I want to bet him now at the price
This horse is lucky to be alive I spotted him earlier than most
Blew me away at Navan in February 2017 He was my Cheltenham Banker in 2017 Had every chance in the 4 miler Before he collapsed in spasms Looking like he might even die He lost his eyesight which has returned No reason why he can't win this Just done a career best Racing Post Rating He seems to have been unfairly overlooked As a horse lucky to be still alive and racing Perhaps people might see him as weak and soft Having had such a horrible experience
That could well be a big mistake It could be a collectively false assumption He's just won the Irish Gold Cup Having hardly had a race all season Maybe he is the horse I always felt he was His last win was really impressive He has a lovely Gold Cup profile as well EDWULF will be part of my staking plan I think we should bet him now at 20/1
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:12:31 GMT
The Cheltenham Festival will begin on heavy ground for the first time since 1982, with a dry night leaving conditions unchanged at heavy, soft in places.
Testing ground awaits the runners for the first day of the meeting, and speaking on Tuesday morning, clerk of the course Simon Claisse said: "It's been dry overnight and we are expecting a dry day, although as I say that there is a shower happening.
"We remain heavy, soft in places."
The end of the back straight, up and over the hill and the bottom of the old hill are the areas where the ground is soft, rather than heavy.
Claisse does not expect any change to underfoot conditions before the roar of the Cheltenham crowd greets the runners for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle, and added: "The forecast is dry so we're just counting down the hours until 1.30."
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 8:14:09 GMT
Ronnie Franklin, the jockey who rode the great Spectacular Bid to win the first two legs of the Triple Crown in 1979, has died after a battle with lung cancer. He was 58.
Baltimore-born Franklin burst on to the racing scene as a teenage superstar when he won an Eclipse Award in 1978 as champion apprentice after partnering Spectacular Bid to seven victories as a two-year-old for trainer Bud Delp. He rode 262 winners that season, having ridden in his first race only in the February.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 9:00:59 GMT
Nicky Henderson was able to issue the news racing fans wanted to hear on Tuesday morning, when he declared Champion Chase favourite Altior sound and ready to run on Wednesday.
However, the trainer also had some bad news, with perennial Champion Hurdle runner-up My Tent Or Yours forced to miss Tuesday's highlight.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 9:02:03 GMT
Interested in the Cheltenham Festival? Here's your handy guide to the first of four spectacular days of racing
When is the big race? The Unibet Champion Hurdle (3.30), which has been won by superstars such as Hurricane Fly, Istabraq and Dawn Run, is the feature race on the opening day of the meeting and last year's winner Buveur D'Air is expected to prevail again.
Buveur D'Air is not the only Champion Hurdle winner in the line-up, however, as he faces Faugheen, who looked capable of achieving all-time great status when winning impressively in 2015 but has since been hampered by injury issues and is bidding to become the first horse aged ten or older to win the race since the mighty Sea Pigeon in 1981.
Who are the main men to note? Faugheen's victory in 2015 formed part of an opening-day treble for the Ruby Walsh and Willie Mullins combination, which had bookmakers trembling with fear that success for Annie Power in the Mares' Hurdle would cost them a £50 million payout. Only a last-flight fall, when she had the race at her mercy, saved the layers, and they will be worried about Mullins and Walsh once again getting plenty of punters off to a flying start with Getabird in the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle (1.30) and Footpad in the Racing Post Arkle (2.10).
If Getabird, Footpad and the Nicky Henderson-trained Buveur D'Air all win the bookies will be praying Apple's Jade gets turned over in the OLBG Mares' Hurdle (4.10), with lots of multiples likely to be running on to last year's winner. However, Apple's Jade, who has been successful seven times at Grade 1 level, is widely considered as one of the bankers of the week for Gordon Elliott.
How do I follow the action? The first five races will be broadcast live on ITV, which will be on air from 1pm to 4.30pm, while the final two races will be on RUK or available through bet-to-view streams. You can also get all the latest reports and news stories on the Racing Post website from our crack team of course reporters.
Speaking of the course, what will the ground be like? It will be hard work for horses and jockeys, with heavy set to feature in the going for the first time since 1989. Stamina, which is already at a premium given the famous uphill climb to the line, takes on extra significance given the extreme conditions. Clerk of the course Simon Claisse has said there's no threat to racing going ahead.
Anything else to note from the other races? Elliott has won three of the last seven runnings of the National Hunt Chase (4.50), and is responsible for joint-favourites Mossback and Jury Duty. The race is confined to amateur riders and Elliott has enlisted some of the best in the business for the market leaders, with Lisa O'Neill, who won last year's race on Tiger Roll, riding Mossback and the widely acclaimed Jamie Codd on Jury Duty.
The first handicap – and big betting race – of the day comes up with the Ultima Handicap Chase (2.50), in which last year's runner-up Singlefarmpayment bids to go one better. David Pipe has been the man to follow the last two years as he sent out Un Temps Pour Tout to triumph on both occasions, and this year he is represented by Ramses De Teillee.
The day concludes with the ferociously competitive Close Brothers Handicap Chase (5.30). There may be easier races to find a winner this week. . .
Follow all the latest Cheltenham news and views with the Racing Post blog
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 10:19:08 GMT
The Cheltenham Festival commences today with the Supreme Novices Hurdle at 13:30. Getabird heads into the opening race of the day as the overwhelming favourite and Ladbrokes are offering new customers an enormous 50/1 on Getabird to win.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 12:14:17 GMT
Barry Geraghty's blog Our star blogger’s rides on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival are headlined by Buveur D’Air, a red-hot favourite to defend his Champion Hurdle crown.
Monday 12 March 2018Blog TESTING GROUND NO ISSUE FOR BUVEUR D’AIR IN CHAMPION HURDLE DEFENCE The Cheltenham Festival is finally here. It’s a great time, it’s all very exciting at this stage, even though the rain has come. There’s a lot at stake, but it’s great to be involved and I’m delighted to be here with some good rides.
It all starts off for me with BUVEUR D’AIR on Tuesday in the Unibet Champion Hurdle (3.30). Everything is good with Buveur D’Air. Nicky is happy with him and soft ground shouldn’t be an issue for him. He has high-class form on soft ground.
He is the reigning champion and he has done everything that he has been required to do this season. He has won his three races and everything has gone to plan with him since he won at Sandown last month.
It’s a Champion Hurdle though, it’s still going to take a lot of winning. Faugheen with cheekpieces could be a big danger. If he were to return to anything like his old form, he would be the main danger.
We know that Yorkhill has a serious engine. His run in the Ryanair Gold Cup at Fairyhouse last year was unbelievable, he nearly beat Road To Respect after he had jumped to his left the whole way through the race.
Melon’s run in the International Hurdle in December brings him into it, when he was giving weight to My Tent Or Yours, and Wicklow Brave could be a danger to all. He is a classy horse, he is an Irish St Leger winner.
But I thought after he won the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle in November that Buveur D’Air could be a stronger horse this year, and I still think that that is the case. He is the one that the others have to beat.
JER’S GIRLwould have a bit to do to beat Apple’s Jade in the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle (4.10), but she deserves to take her chance in the race.
She ran well last time when she was just beaten by La Bague Au Roi at Kempton over three miles. She stayed the trip all right that day, but this two and a half miles might be better for her, especially on the ground.
La Bague Au Roi re-opposes here, and she is 4lb better off with us from that run at Kempton. But Jer’s Girl was travelling well when she fell at the third last flight in the race last year, and Gavin is happy with her. She has an each-way chance.
I ride DEMI SANG in the Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase (4.50). This is one of the most open races of the week, you could make a case for most of the runners.
Demi Sang is a horse with a lot of promise. He won two chases at Auteuil in September, and he was workmanlike in winning at Naas on his debut for the boss.
He probably got a bit of a fright when he missed the first fence in the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown last month, and he wasn’t as slick at his fences after that as he needed to be. That was a Grade 1 race. He should appreciate this drop down in class. He could also appreciate stepping up in trip, and he shouldn’t have an issue with the ground. There should be more to come from him.
The ground is obviously going to have a big impact for the whole week. It shouldn’t be a negative for Getabird in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. He goes well on soft ground and he stays further than two miles.
Kalashnikov coped well with soft ground too in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury. It will be a very interesting race, but it could be swinging around in Getabird’s favour.
The ground may see Saint Calvados close the gap on Footpad and Petit Mouchoir in the Arkle. This should be a very interesting race too.
There shouldn’t be much between Footpad and Petit Mouchoir. Petit Mouchoir finished in front three times last year over hurdles, but Footpad came out on top in the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown last time.
Petit Mouchoir should progress from that race though, and he could come out on top this time.
Follow @barryjgeraghty
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 18:59:54 GMT
Cheltenham, 13 Mar 18 Fixture Note After Race 5 the going was changed to Soft, Heavy in places (from Heavy, Soft in places) Race 1 - 1:30pm THE SKY BET SUPREME NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) GETABIRD (IRE), MENGLI KHAN (IRE), and SHARJAH wore earplugs. KALASHNIKOV (IRE), PALOMA BLUE (IRE) and SIMPLY THE BETTS (IRE) wore earplugs, which were removed at the start.
Following the race David Bass reported that FIRST FLOW (IRE), which was pulled up, hung right-handed from half way. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of FIRST FLOW (IRE) failed to reveal any abnormalities. Ruby Walsh reported that GETABIRD (IRE), unplaced, ran too freely.
Race 2 - 2:10pm THE RACING POST ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) BRAIN POWER (IRE) and PETIT MOUCHOIR (FR) wore earplugs, which were removed at the start.
Race 3 - 2:50pm THE ULTIMA HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that GOLD PRESENT (IRE), which was pulled up, had bled from the nose, BEWARE THE BEAR (IRE), placed fourth, lost its right fore shoe and WAKANDA (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 4 - 3:30pm THE UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE CHALLENGE TROPHY (CLASS 1)(Grade 1) BUVEUR D'AIR (FR), MELON and YORKHILL (IRE) wore earplugs.
After jumping the third last flight FAUGHEEN (IRE), placed sixth, shifted left-handed interfering with MELON, placed second, but after viewing a recording of the incident it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Willie Mullins reported that FAUGHEEN, placed sixth, now appears to need further than two miles. The Veterinary Officer reported that CH'TIBELLO (FR), unplaced, was sore behind.
Race 5 - 4:10pm THE OLBG MARES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 1) (Registered as The David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle Race) BENIE DES DIEUX (FR) and KAYF GRACE wore earplugs.
Ruby Walsh, the rider of the winner, BENIE DES DIEUX (FR), was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from approaching the last flight.
Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that MIDNIGHT JAZZ, placed sixth, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 6 - 4:50pm THE NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP AMATEUR RIDERS' NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) Permission was given for MS PARFOIS (IRE) to go early to post.
Due to veterinary advice the winner, RATHVINDEN, did not come into the winner’s enclosure.
Mr P.W. Mullins, the rider of the winner, RATHVINDEN (IRE), was suspended for 6 days for using his whip above the permitted level and without giving his horse time to respond from the last fence.
The Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, RATHVINDEN (IRE) and NO COMMENT, placed sixth, had post-race heat stress and that SIZING TENNESSEE (IRE), placed third, and PYLONTHEPRESSURE (IRE), placed fifth, lost their right hind shoes.
Race 7 - 5:30pm THE CLOSE BROTHERS NOVICES' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) DEMI SANG (FR), LIVELOVELAUGH (IRE) and BALLYHILL (FR) wore earplugs.
On the run to the line RATHER BE (IRE), placed second, lugged right-handed taking the winner, MISTER WHITAKER (IRE), off its intended line, but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
The performance of DE PLOTTING SHED (IRE), which was pulled up, was considered. Gordon Elliott could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination, during routine testing, found that the gelding had lost its left fore shoe.
Following the race Daryl Jacob reported that MARKOV (IRE), which was pulled up, jumped poorly throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that WESTERN MILLER, unplaced, lost its left hind shoe. View Stewards report Sedgefield, 13 Mar 18 Race 1 - 1:20pm THE 188BET 10% LOSSES BACK AT CHELTENHAM HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Miss Maxine O’Sullivan, the rider of the winner, THE JAM MAN (IRE), was suspended for 2 days on dates to be notified by the British Horseracing Authority, for using her whip above the permitted level from after the last hurdle.
Henry Brooke, the rider of IT’S PANDORAMA (IRE), placed second, was suspended for 2 days for using his whip above the permitted level from the second last hurdle.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that XPO UNIVERSEL (FR), placed third, had a small wound on its left hind.
Race 2 - 1:55pm THE NOEL FEHILY CHELTENHAM PREVIEWS AT 188BET MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Betfred Hurdle Series Qualifier) Following the race, Ross Chapman reported that TOKARAMORE, which was pulled up, made a bad mistake at the first hurdle in the back straight and the Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that the mare was sore after sustaining an over-reach to its right fore, and lost its right fore shoe.
Race 3 - 2:35pm THE 188BET UP TO £75 CASH BONUS HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) Following the race, John Kington reported that BANDOL (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling; Finian O’Toole reported that ROXYFET (FR), placed fifth, ran flat and hung badly left and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer further reported that CHANCEOFA LIFETIME (IRE), placed sixth, was lame on its left hind.
Race 4 - 3:15pm THE 188BET BEST PRICED MULLINS CHELTENHAM WEDNESDAY 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The performance of HANDY HOLLOW (IRE) which finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Donald McCain could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance.
Race 5 - 3:55pm THE 188BET FALLER REFUNDS AT CHELTENHAM THURSDAY STEEPLE CHASE (A NOVICES' LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 4) Permission was given for PADDLING (FR) to wear a hood in the parade ring. View Stewards report Southwell, 13 Mar 18 Race 1 - 1:10pm THE sunbets.co.uk HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Just inside the 2 furlong marker, the winner, MISTER FREEZE (IRE), hung left carrying MIMIC’S MEMORY, placed second, off its intended line, which in turn caused HARVEST RANGER, placed sixth, to be briefly inconvenienced, 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 MISTER FREEZE (IRE).
Race 2 - 1:45pm THE sunbets.co.uk DOWNLOAD THE APP CLASSIFIED CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6) TELLOVOI (IRE) wore earplugs.
Approximately 1½ furlongs out, RAAKID (IRE), placed second, hung quickly left away from the whip before being corrected by its rider and tightened up MR ANDROS, placed sixth, which was hampered 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 RAAKID (IRE).
Following the race, Andrew Mullen reported that BLACK DAVE (IRE), placed seventh, was never travelling and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding revealed it had bled from the nose.
Race 3 - 2:25pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) The performance of STAR ASCENDING (IRE), which started favourite and finished seventh, was considered. The representative of Jennie Candlish explained that the gelding ran flat.
Race 4 - 3:05pm THE BETWAY CHELTENHAM FIRST & LAST RACE LOSERS MONEYBACK HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Permission was given for SAVED MY BACON (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race, Nicola Currie reported that KOMMANDER KIRKUP, unplaced, was never travelling and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5 - 3:45pm THE BETWAY CASINO NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for ELLIOT THE DRAGON (IRE) to go early to post.
Race 6 - 4:25pm THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL BETTING AT BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Paddy Pilley weighed out without a girth and surcingle. Having realised the saddle was missing these items, Claire Ellam returned to Scales and Pilley reweighed with both items which resulted in him carrying 2lbs overweight. Pilley was fined £650 for deliberately weighing out without all the required equipment.
An enquiry was held to consider interference for a considerable distance shortly after the start involving SOCIALITES RED, placed fourth, ridden by Gabriele Malune; CELERITY (IRE), placed sixth, ridden by Shelley Birkett; ARAGON KNIGHT, placed seventh, ridden by Tom Marquand; DAPPER MAN (IRE), placed third, ridden by Ben Sanderson and SIR HARRY COLLINS (IRE), placed fifth, ridden by Jane Elliott. Malune was suspended for 10 days for careless riding as he failed to take sufficient corrective measures when his mount was lugging left, which resulted in sustained interference to CELERITY (IRE), which was badly crowded for room causing ARAGON NIGHT to be severely checked, which in turn caused DAPPER MAN (IRE) to be significantly tightened for room and SIR HARRY COLLINS to become unbalanced when bumped on several occasions.
Race 7 - 5:00pm THE BETWAY LIVE CASINO APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Harry Burns, the rider of OCHOS RIOS, placed third, was suspended for 9 days for using his whip above the permitted level from 3 furlongs out. View Stewards report Newcastle, 13 Mar 18 Race 1 - 5:45pm THE BET ON THE FESTIVAL WITH BETWAY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) An enquiry was held to consider interference approaching the final furlong, when INDIAN RED, placed fourth, ridden by Paul Mulrennan, edged right and interfered with ST ANDREWS (IRE), placed fifth, ridden by Graham Lee. Mulrennan was cautioned for careless riding as he allowed his mount to edge right causing ST ANDREWS (IRE) to be slightly checked.
Following the race, Paul Hanagan reported that RUBENESQUE (IRE), placed sixth, hung left in the final 2½ furlongs. Kevin Stott reported that GABRIAL THE TERROR (IRE), placed seventh, was slowly away and hung left in the home straight.
Race 2 - 6:15pm THE 32Red.com NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, Nathan Evans reported that FURZE LADY, placed third, ran too free.
Race 3 - 6:45pm THE 32Red CASINO FILLIES' NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Rebecca Menzies, was fined £140 as the record of vaccinations in the passport of LUOLA did not comply with the Rules of Racing.
QAFLIAH (IRE) lost its right front shoe on the way to post. As the representative of Charlie Hills had stated at declarations that the filly should not be withdrawn in the event it lost a shoe, QAFLIAH (IRE) was allowed to run.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 19:57:07 GMT
FREE TO AIR TV RACES 1:30 CHELTENHAM Ballymore Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) (Registered As The Baring Bingham) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV 14 runners 2:10 CHELTENHAM RSA Insurance Novices' Chase (Grade 1) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m½f ITV 10 runners 2:50 CHELTENHAM Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m5f ITV 26 runners 3:30 CHELTENHAM Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase (Grade 1) Cl1 (5yo+) 2m ITV 9 runners 4:10 CHELTENHAM Glenfarclas Chase (A Cross Country Chase) Cl2 (5yo+) 3m6f ITV 16 runners
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 20:54:35 GMT
Lambourn: James Burn
Thebannerkingrebel (5.30 Cheltenham, nap)
Well-regarded five-year-old who coped well with testing ground at Bangor last time and a huge effort is expected.
18/1 Thebannerkingrebel 5:30 Cheltenham Others to follow Cheltenham: 1.30 Diablo De Rouhet, 2.10 Full Irish, 2.50 Burbank, 3.30 Altior, 4.50 Lisp. Huntingdon: 5.40 Guiding Stars. Southwell: 2.35 Dubstep, 3.15 Volatile, 3.55 Captain Lars, 4.35 Cousin Khee. Wolverhampton: 6.15 Boychick, 7.45 Belated Breath, 8.45 We Are The World.
Newmarket: David Milnes
Dutch Monarch (2.35 Southwell, nap)
Sir Mark Prescott's filly showed bags of promise when staying on to take fifth on her debut over six furlongs at Wolverhampton last month and is expected to be suited by this stiffer test. The daughter of Dutch Art has since moved well on Warren Hill.
3/1 Dutch Monarch 2:35 Southwell (AW) Others to follow Southwell: 1.20 Global Rose, 3.15 Majestic Moon. Wolverhampton: 5.45 Bernie's Boy, 6.15 King Kevin, 6.45 Dubai Landmark, 7.15 Bowditch, 7.45 Mother Of Dragons, 8.15 Baileys Excel, 8.45 Verstappen.
West Country: Andrew King
Elegant Escape (2.10 Cheltenham, nap)
Closely matched with Black Corton on form but the ground swings it in his favour and he is expected to go close.
10/1 Elegant Escape 2:10 Cheltenham Others to follow Cheltenham: 1.30 Vision Des Flos, 2.50 Topofthegame, 3.30 Politologue, 4.50 Act Of Valour 5.30 Acey Milan.
North: Colin Russell
Look My Way (4.50 Cheltenham, nap)
Thorough stayer who trotted up on the only occasion he ran on heavy ground on the Flat. Three sound runs over hurdles, particularly when second to Apple's Shakira over C&D last time, and is fancied to go well on his handicap debut.
10/1 Look My Way 4:50 Cheltenham Others to follow Cheltenham: 2.50 Mount Mews, 4.10 Federici. Southwell: 1.20 Warrior's Valley, 1.55 Illlusional, 2.35 The Jungle Vip, 3.15 Holiday Magic, 3.55 Rozy Boys, 4.35 The Resdev Way, 5.15 Bop It. Wolverhampton: 5.45 Cobalty Isle, 6.15 Stonific, 6.45 Fabella Bere, 8.15 Sandytown, 8.45 Poetic Steps.
Topspeed: Dave Edwards
William Henry (2.50 Cheltenham)
Useful novice last season who raised his game to land a hot handicap at Kempton in January and may still be ahead of his mark.
8/1 William Henry 2:50 Cheltenham Longshot: Ed Quigley
Politologue (3.30 Cheltenham)
Will relish the ground and is an excellent jumper. With question marks about all the protagonists he looks to have solid claims.
11/1 Politologue 3:30 Cheltenham Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Eragon De Chanay (4.50 Cheltenham)
A race littered with potentially very well-handicapped horses, but Saturday's impressive Sandown winner Eragon De Chanay has already proved he is a fair way ahead of his mark and, providing he is has fully recovered from Saturday's exertions, could go in again.
10/1 Eragon De Chanay 4:50 Cheltenham Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Cause Of Causes (4.10 Cheltenham, nap)
A proven Cheltenham specialist, the Gordon Elliott-trained ten-year-old is going for his fourth Festival win and can repeat last year's victory in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase. A horse who hits his best form in the spring he can continue his fine record over the course en route to another tilt at the Grand National in which he ran second last year.
5/2 Cause Of Causes 4:10 Cheltenham The Raceform Interactive Nugget
Jockey Bryony Frost has a very respectable 5/14 (36% +£22) record at Cheltenham. Her only ride at the track today is Black Corton in the 2.10.
15/2 Black Corton 2:10 Cheltenham 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 Mar 13, 2018 20:55:16 GMT
Max Dynamite 2.50 Cheltenham
7/1 Max Dynamite 2:50 Cheltenham A 113-rated performer on the Flat who ran a blinder to finish third to Rekindling in the Melbourne Cup, there is little doubt Max Dynamite has the class for a race of this nature.
He looks to have been carefully laid out for Cheltenham by Willie Mullins, and a mark of 141 could prove lenient.
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 13, 2018 21:03:22 GMT
Paul Nicholls is 19% with handicap debutants (+£23.28) and Grand Sancy (Cheltenham 4.50), beaten in the Adonis last time, has a similar profile to last year’s winner Flying Tiger.
Colin Tizzard has had some quick success with declared wind ops with two winners from seven runners. Royal Vacation is well handicapped on his chase form in the Coral Cup at 2.50.
Nina Carberry is 56% for Enda Bolger at Cheltenham and 2016 winner Josies Orders, three from five at the course, should go close in the cross-country chase at 4.10.
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Post by dennisg on Mar 14, 2018 7:51:13 GMT
in today's sporting life................. Our flagship racing tipster Ben Linfoot seeks out the best Value Bets on day two of the 2018 Cheltenham Festival as he tackles the big two handicap hurdles. Recommended Bets: Value Bet Cheltenham Festival Day Two For details of advised bookmakers and each-way terms, visit our transparent tipping record The ground was clearly very testing at Cheltenham on day one and it’s going to take some getting through on Wednesday despite a dry couple of days. It’s an added factor ahead of the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase, where there is the distinct possibility of an Arkle-type (Tuesday’s race, not horse) breakaway from the front-running Special Tiara and Ar Mad. What goes on behind them with Altior, Douvan and Min will be compelling. Will Ruby Walsh be confident enough in Douvan’s well-being to go forward with the front two? It’ll be a fascinating first half of the race. The second half won’t be bad either, but predicting what will come through and win isn’t easy. Special Tiara is likely to be caught on this ground, but both Altior and Douvan both come into this on the back of very different setbacks and it’s not a race to be confident about anything. Perhaps Min, a horse that showed his well-being to be as good as ever when running away with the Coral Dublin Chase, could be the one, but the very fact his stablemate and ownermate Douvan runs in this has to be a negative to his chances. If the market agrees and he drifts markedly he might well become too tantalising a price, but for now the handicaps look the best punting opportunities and the Coral Cup (2.50) is as devilish a puzzle as ever. A key point in this race is the prospect of a rip-roaring gallop. There are loads of potential front-runners – Mischievous Max, Diamond King, Springtown Lake, Stowaway Magic, Red Indian and Le Breuil have all led recently and there are plenty of prominent racers in opposition as well. I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have a patiently-ridden stayer on side, then, and the one I like at a price is Oliver Sherwood’s THE ORGANIST at 33/1 (General 1/4 1,2,3,4,5). She improved for the step back up to three miles when winning a handicap off 133 at Newbury in December and was only raised 6lb for that success despite storming home under a patient ride. Next time she ran better than the bare result at Warwick after running wide in the straight and it’s interesting she comes here rather than the Pertemps having qualified for the Final that day. The thinking must be that the tempo of this race on the testing ground will suit and it’s a theory I like. Jockey Leighton Aspell is a fine exponent of a patient ride, too, and given the way this race is likely to be run she looks a good each-way bet at big odds. 20 The Organist60 710-12OR: 139 25/1 Form: 674-715T: O SherwoodJ: L P Aspell Last run Live betting powered by At the other end of the market it’s surprising that WILLIAM HENRY isn’t a clear favourite and at 9/1 (William Hill, 8/1 General) he’s well worth a bet. The classier types have dominated this race in recent years, including Whisper for the same owner and trainer combination who won this race off 153 in 2014 with then-claimer Nico de Boinville helping ease the burden a little. De Boinville has thrived at the Festival since then and big things are expected of William Henry’s jockey, James Bowen, who claims what could be a vital 3lb off his mount on Wednesday. Bowen has been one of the up-and-coming stars of the season and he almost bagged his first Festival win aboard Shantou Flyer on Tuesday, but compensation could be quickly forthcoming in the Coral Cup. William Henry has an eerily similar profile to Whisper, but gets in here off 2lb lighter. He too looks like a horse that could play a hand at the top level and a 6lb rise for his latest win looks a rare bit of leniency from the handicapper. The form has worked out incredibly well, with second home Spiritofthegames running third in the Betfair Hurdle behind Sky Bet Supreme runner-up Kalashnikov, the third Red Indian running second at Towcester, the fourth Topofthegame winning at Sandown (re-opposes off worse terms), the seventh Le Patriote winning at Ascot and the eighth Dentley de Mee taking second in the EBF Final at Sandown on Saturday. A 6lb rise with that lot behind him is incredibly fair, especially as William Henry won like a horse that had plenty more to offer. Nicky Henderson reaches for first-time cheekpieces, as well, and the ground should be no problem as it was pretty soft in that Lanzarote win at Kempton. 2 William Henryp160 811-10OR: 151CD 8/1 Form: 2121-P1T: N J HendersonJ: James Bowen (3) Last run Live betting powered by Finally, the Boodles Fred Winter Juvenile Hurdle looks as baffling as ever and one each-way bet here will suffice. At 33/1 (Betfair Sportsbook, Paddy Power 1/4 1,2,3,4) MERCENAIRE looks like he could give us a good run for our money. Nick Williams has a fine Cheltenham Festival strike-rate considering his small number of runners and he supplemented his win in this race last year with Flying Tiger by landing the Ultima on day one with Coo Star Sivola. Mercenaire looks a likely type for this race as he looked a juvenile of some ability when hosing up at Exeter in November and he ran really well in Grade One company next time when third to We Have A Dream in the Finale at Chepstow. He was too keen that day but shaped as though a big-field handicap would suit and he can be forgiven a wide-margin defeat to an older and stronger horse in Vision Des Flos in very heavy ground back at Exeter last time. A mark of 135 looks fair enough on his Grade One form and Chester Williams, who rode Dentley de Mee into second in the EBF Final on Saturday, takes another 7lb off his back. 5 Mercenaire31 411-6OR: 135BF 25/1 Form: 8-132T: Nick WilliamsJ: Mr Chester Williams (7) Last run Live betting powered by Posted at 1700 GMT on 13/03/18. 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: +356.89pts to advised stakes/prices (from inception of Value Bet column in January 2010 to current).
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Post by dennisg on Mar 14, 2018 7:53:10 GMT
Ed Chamberlin hit the back of the net with Mick Channon's Mister Whitaker on Tuesday - don't miss his three best bets for Cheltenham on Wednesday. 12 Fixe Le Kap25 611-0OR: 141 16/1 Form: 28/2-127T: N J HendersonJ: D A Jacob Last run Live betting powered by Had an aborted chasing campaign and disappointed at Ascot last time but looks on a nice mark on the pick of his form and would be no surprise if Nicky Henderson unlocked the key to him on the big stage. 12 Tiger Rollp,t89 811-4OR: 150C 11/2 Form: 31P-2P5T: G ElliottJ: K M Donoghue Last run Live betting powered by The winner of the Triumph and the four-mile so the Cross Country should be a breeze! A grand servant for Gordon Elliott and this has been his target all year. He'll roar when he sees his favourite hill again. 17 The King Of May38 410-13OR: 128D 11/1 Form: 5-6113T: B EllisonJ: Danny Cook Last run Live betting powered by French import that caught the eye on his British debut at Musselburgh last month behind We Have A Dream. His yard went close with Nietszche in this race and this fellow could go two places better.
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Post by dennisg on Mar 14, 2018 7:55:14 GMT
www.sportinglife.com/images/news/900x506/2385f5ab-7d81-4aa5-bee5-f3c420ad1ada.jpgSimon Holt previews the pick of the action on Wednesday - and thinks Samcro has a battle on his hands in the Ballymore. Simon's best bets: 7 Duc Des Genievres38 511-7OR: 148 12/1 Form: 132T: W P MullinsJ: P Townend Last run Live betting powered by 10 Presenting Percyt25 711-4OR: 158BFCD 5/2 Form: 6-13112T: P G KellyJ: D N Russell Last run Live betting powered by 2 William Henryp160 811-10OR: 151CD 8/1 Form: 2121-P1T: N J HendersonJ: James Bowen (3) Last run Live betting powered by A clash between Altior and the Willie Mullins-trained pair Douvan and Min is something to savour in Wednesday's Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. However, there can be little doubt that the likely odds-on favourite, who has recovered from a last-minute minor foot problem - will be hard to beat after a striking defeat of Tingle Creek winner Politologue on his reappearance at Newbury last month when he barely broke sweat to win. Altior may not have been at his absolute best in last year's Arkle at this meeting but he surely has the edge on form over Min while Douvan has questions to answer returning from the injury he incurred when hot favourite for this race 12 months ago. The card also features the much vaunted Samcro who is sure to start another short-priced market leader in the opening Ballymore Novices' Hurdle. One of the most exciting novices perhaps to be trained in Ireland since the early days of Vautour and Faugheen, the six-year-old has been mightily impressive in his three career victories at Fairyhouse and at Punchestown (twice), latterly at Grade One level (2m) last month when beating the re-opposing Duc Des Genievres by over five lengths. Successful previously over two-and-a-half miles, against much weaker opposition, Samcro has so far shown no flaws, but I do think the promising DUC DES GENIEVRES could give him something more to think about over this trip. Very stoutly-bred, the Willie Mullins-trained grey travels really well and caught the eye when third behind stable-mate Next Destination on his English debut at Naas in early January. Behind Samcro, he also moved notably well but was given plenty to do that day, and the extra five furlongs here must play to his strengths. There's a good chance, at least, that he could turn the tables on Next Destination here, and maybe also cause an upset. Later, Irish-trained horses may also dominate the RSA Insurance Novices' Chase in which PRESENTING PERCY and Monalee head the market. The winner of the Pertemps Final here last year, Presenting Percy may have been more inconvenienced by the drop to two-and-a-half miles than his classy Gold Cup-bound rival Our Duke at Gowran Park last time having earlier defied top weight in a handicap chase at Fairyhouse and won a Grade Two hurdle, again at Gowran. A smooth traveller and sound jumper, Davy Russell's mount is just ahead of Monalee, runner-up to Penhill in the Albert Bartlett Novices here 12 months ago, in the chase ratings. Monalee showed plenty of tenacity when landing a Grade One chase at Leopardstown early last month, but the first four home were covered by a length-and-a-half, and the selection is rated far superior on hurdling form. The remarkable Black Corton, successful eight times this season, has surprised everyone including his trainer Paul Nicholls, and seems to go particularly well for Bryony Frost. The winning combination should not be under-estimated but, in all likelihood, this race requires yet one more step forward. In the always-competitive Coral Cup, WILLIAM HENRY can give young riding sensation James Bowen his first winner at the Festival. The Nicky Henderson-trained gelding didn't take to fences first time out this season, but then put up a splendid effort under Bowen to defy top weight in the Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle over this trip at Kempton, and the placed horses have all run well since. William Henry has won and finished second on three previous visits to Cheltenham and, in light of subsequent events, his effort to chase home Wholestone here on the New Course last January with Poetic Rhythm, Topofthegame, Elegant Escape and Coo Star Sivola all behind also looks very solid form. Still lightly raced, this is a horse who should be open to further improvement.
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Post by dennisg on Mar 14, 2018 7:59:12 GMT
Ben Linfoot discusses the big talking points on day two of the Cheltenham Festival and he's taking on one of the hot favourites. Is Samcro the monster his odds suggest he is? I think so. Unbeaten in seven – one point-to-point, three bumpers and three novice hurdles – the evidence is stacking up that this six-year-old is very much the real deal. Purchased by Gordon Elliott for £335,000 at the Goffs Aintree sale five days after a cosy point-to-point success at Monksgrange in the April of 2016, this son of Germany, also the sire of Faugheen, has done everything very easily in all assignments so far. And it’s not as if you can pick holes in his form. Even that easy point success came at the expense of Elegant Escape, a novice chaser that is now rated 153 and is being backed for the RSA Insurance Chase as I type. Good Thyne Tara won races easily either side of getting beaten in a bumper by Samcro at Navan, while Mind’s Eye, beaten 15 lengths by this Gigginstown-owned freak in his maiden hurdle at the start of the season, won his next two races with ease. Then there’s Jessica Harrington’s Jetz, beaten 12 lengths by Samcro in the Grade 3 ‘Monksfield’ Novice Hurdle at Navan in November, a horse that was denied by just a head in the Grade 1 Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Solicitors Novice Hurdle at the Dublin Racing Festival last month. And that’s all before we mention Samcro’s five-and-a-half length cruise in the Deloitte, a race in which one of those that chased him home, namely Paloma Blue, is quietly fancied for his own Cheltenham Festival assignment in the Sky Bet Supreme despite that thrashing at Leopardstown. The time of that race was three seconds slower than the Spring Juvenile over the same distance on the same card, but even the fact that Samcro was able to sail to victory off a dawdling pace highlights the class advantage he had over his opponents that day. It’s a gulf that could well be apparent over every novice hurdler either side of the Irish Sea. We will see for ourselves at the Festival in the Ballymore. At 8/11 for the race, he’s one of the shortest-priced favourites of the week. I’ve no doubt he has the tools to justify those sort of odds. Full Ballymore Novices' Hurdle card & free video form Monalee won a thrilling Flogas Novice Chase Monalee won a thrilling Flogas Novice Chase Which horse will come out on top from the Flogas form in the RSA Insurance Chase? Let’s just forget the claims of Presenting Percy and Black Corton and Elegant Escape in the RSA Insurance Chase for the minute. They’re clearly players in the stayers’ championship race for novice chasers, but the Grade One Flogas Novice Chase, run over 2m5f at the Dublin Racing Festival, looks the singular key piece of form heading into the contest. Four of the last nine RSA winners have graduated from the Flogas. Cooldine, Weapon’s Amnesty, Bostons Angel and Lord Windermere all took in the Flogas en route to RSA success, two following victory at Leopardstown (Cooldine and Bostons Angel) and two after placed efforts (Weapon’s Amnesty and Lord Windermere). Defeat in the Flogas is no barrier to success in the RSA, then, and the more I look at Monalee, the brave winner of this year’s Flogas, the more I think he should've run in the JLT. His Leopardstown victory was superb coming on the back of a heavy fall at the same track in the Grade One Neville Hotels Novice Chase at Christmas. To bounce back in such an aggressive manner was top class, but really attacking his fences seemed to suit and the slight drop in trip to 2m5f was a big part of that. If he’s slightly more restrained over three miles it could spell trouble and he doesn’t have much in hand over his Flogas pursuers. Leading the pursuit was Willie Mullins’ Al Boum Photo, a horse that was bouncing back from his own fall at Limerick on Boxing Day. He probably would’ve beaten Dounikas had he negotiated the last successfully at Limerick and he did beat Dounikas in the Flogas, by a length, despite some minor mistakes on the way around. Dounikos travelled wider and was short of room after the final fence, his staying-on fourth a fine RSA preparation in its own right and he is going this route rather than the four-miler. But Al Boum Photo looks the one to take out of the Flogas. He stayed on really well for second, shaping as though a first crack at three miles over fences would bring about further improvement. Given he’s related to smart staying hurdler Grand Crus and Scottish National winner Al Co, his pedigree points to possible improvement as he steps up in trip as well. With Ruby Walsh taking over in the saddle for the first time since his maiden hurdle win, that potential comes with a big ‘P’. If Walsh can get him to cut out the little mistakes at his fences, Al Boum Photo could well become the fifth horse from the Flogas to achieve RSA glory in the last decade. Full RSA Insurance Novices' Chase card and free video form Can Altior win at the Festival for the third time in three years? Can Altior win at the Festival for the third time in three years? Is Altior a play or a lay at evens in the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase? There are some very solid short-priced favourites at the Festival this year and Altior will be one of them for many punters, but he looks very short to me - even after drifting a little since Douvan was declared - and I’m happy to take him on. It niggles me that he was least impressive in the Arkle at last year’s Festival from his three starts in the early part of 2017 and I’m not sure that three-runner race in the Game Spirit was the ideal preparation for a championship contest. We know Special Tiara is going to go off like a hare in this as it’s the only way he knows and I just wonder if Altior might struggle to get into his rhythm in the early part of the race. If he’s at his very best he probably wins, but, after that one canter around Newbury, his only run since last April, there has to be chance he won’t be absolutely A1. And I like Min. Yes, he was beaten seven lengths by Altior in the Sky Bet Supreme two years ago, but he made a mistake at the third that day and was found to be injured afterwards. And he still beat subsequent Champion Hurdle hero Buveur D’Air despite all of that. He’s had his problems, but a career-best in the Coral Dublin Chase last time suggests he’s arriving at the Champion Chase in the form of his life. He travelled sweetly and jumped superbly when chasing Special Tiara at Leopardstown, so the likely strong pace at the Festival could play right into his hands again. The one negative for Min is the looming presence of stablemate Douvan, chosen by Ruby Walsh as his Champion Chase ride. At least Min backers will likely get a bigger price now. As for Douvan, I couldn't back him in this, such a hot renewal, after a year off the track. If he managed to win it would dwarf Mullins' annual achievements with Quevaga. This is a proper race. But, back to Altior. With the dual assault from Closutton now confirmed he does look on the short side. Even though he’s going for his 13th successive victory, I personally wouldn’t want to be piling into him at prohibitive odds. Especially after that foot scare on Monday. Full Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase card & free video form
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Post by dennisg on Mar 14, 2018 8:02:13 GMT
Lydia Hislop ties up the loose ends from her Road To Cheltenham series and adds selections for day two of the 2018 Cheltenham Festival. 1.30 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle So sainted Samcro runs here, despite talk of switching him to the Supreme in the scenario of heavy ground. That caveat was understandable, given the speed he’s shown – especially last time out when, admittedly well positioned in a steadily run race, he settled the Deloitte in a matter of strides. It’s possible that, at this level, the going could place a heightened accent on stamina in this contest. If that’s the case (and perhaps anyway), Duc De Genievres is likely to get a whole lot closer. He got shuffled back when the pace lifted in the Deloitte, but made eye-catching progress through the pack for a clear second. Due to his defeat by Samcro, the market underestimates his trajectory a tad. This lightly raced horse has promised more than he’s yet been able to deliver in either start for Willie Mullins. Yet Ruby Walsh riding Next Destination firmly signifies that horse is the stable’s first string – and they don’t make that many mistakes. (Some, or they wouldn’t be human; but not many.) Samcro: Gordon Elliott's best chance of a weekend winner Samcro: He is here! Next Destination beat Duc De Genievres when they met but even then it looked likely to be a close-run thing if/when they re-opposed. The positives for Walsh’s mount are: he’s straightforward, jumps well and handles this ground. But his stablemate was making his Irish debut and ridden accordingly in a race not run to suit. At the prices, I’d still rather be with the Duc. Black Op is clearly a player on his latest second to Santini in heavy ground at Cheltenham in January where he was ultimately out-stayed, but he’ll need to find further improvement here and looks a shade short in comparative terms. There’s still some traction in Vision Des Flos each-way at 16/1, who handles this ground and, in winning in deep ground at Exeter last time, was using the stepping-stone trainer Colin Tizzard has in the past reserved for his smart horses. Selections: Already advised 13/12/17: On The Blind Side 10/1 each-way with various firms [NON-RUNNER] Already advised 04/03/18: Duc De Genievres each-way at 14/1 NRNB 1/5 odds for the Ballymore with Ladbrokes or at 12/1 BOG NRNB 1/4 odds with Bet365 7 Duc Des Genievres38 511-7OR: 148 12/1 Form: 132T: W P MullinsJ: P Townend Last run Live betting powered by 2.10 RSA Insurance Novices’ Chase The idiosyncratic preparation handed to Presenting Percy has caused some to get cold feet about his prospects at 5/2 but trainer Pat Kelly is nothing if not his own man. Yet the class required to win a Grade Two hurdle and give Our Duke, a genuine Gold Cup contender, a fright last time at Gowran can hardly be construed as a drawback. That’s form good enough to win most RSA Chases already. Monalee again looked good, jumping better and controlling the Flogas from the front last time out, but those tactics will be harder to pull off here and the extra distance should see the Mullins’ first string Al Boum Photo get a whole lot closer or else even reverse the form. Yet from that race, Dounikos could well be the one to take the largest step forward. He wasn’t suited by a relatively steadily run race but was just starting to stay on to good effect when forced to switch after the last. He handles the ground and would be a good each-way position to take as the prices stand. Black Corton is solid, thoroughly experienced and ridden with total belief by Bryony Frost. He’s underestimated by dint of his trainer’s campaign that tacitly implied an attempt to reap as much success as possible before the big guns were loaded… until his results suggested he was one of them. He’s achieved more than any of his rivals to date yet still trades as fourth or fifth favourite. Selection: Already advised 31/12/17: Presenting Percy 8/1 with BetVictor, BetFred, Boylesports or Stan James 10 Presenting Percyt25 711-4OR: 158BFCD 5/2 Form: 6-13112T: P G KellyJ: D N Russell Last run Live betting powered by 3.30 Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase Few, if any, races can have entailed as much upheaval in their anticipation as this year’s edition of the Champion Chase. Not content with the tumultuous saga as it was then written, both Altior and Douvan threw in final desperate bids for further attention on Monday. First, we had the confusion – best to call it that, for now at least – surrounding Douvan’s likely target that was resoundingly resolved when he was not only declared for this race but with Ruby Walsh jocked up. (Of course, even this relative certainty was undermined 24 hours later when he was also declared for the Ryanair. We’ve all rehearsed the mental brace position, haven’t we? Stand by to assume, if required, on command.) Willie Mullins revealed Walsh was pivotal in deciding Douvan’s target. “Ruby has been very happy with Douvan in recent days and was keen to ride him in the Champion Chase rather than in the Ryanair,” he said. “That made my mind up and [owner] Rich Ricci was happy with that.” Next, news broke via Nicky Henderson’s Twitter account that Altior was lame in his near fore leg but that his veterinary team was “confident he will be clear to race on Wednesday”. The news was accordingly positive 24 hours later. “We have located some pus in the frog [of his foot],” Henderson said, in his original announcement. “He was still able to exercise in the water treadmill this morning [Monday], which he does regularly anyway, and a poultice will now be applied and left on overnight to draw out the pus. “The foot will also be ‘tubbed’ [stood in salt water] at regular intervals and the shoe will hopefully be replaced first thing tomorrow morning [Tuesday].” So what does all this mean for the race itself? Well – understatement alert – neither of its bill-toppers has enjoyed the ideal preparation. Choose between: wind surgery, glorious comeback, last-minute setback prior to the toughest race of your career OR fractured pelvis, intermittent lameness, no schooling over fences, return in the toughest race of your career. Altior: Not the ideal preparation Altior is the clear winner on this score, surely. But his odds still don’t match his back-story. And neither do Douvan’s. Taking either price is a case of Festival fever shouldering out cold, hard betting sense. By all means, do it for the thrill of ‘always being right’ about either horse but don’t tell me it was “a great bet”. However, the fact Walsh has chosen Douvan over stablemate Min despite all these problems is a stark display of the stable’s pecking order. It cannot be construed as anything but a negative for this column’s ante-post selection. Yet happily, races must actually be run rather than their trophies decided beforehand by committee and even those closest to the principals can be mistaken or overtaken by events. While it’s entirely proper given Paul Townend is second jockey at Mullins’ yard and has shouldered its chief riding responsibilities during Walsh’s enforced absence, it must have been tempting to book David Mullins after he partnered Min to an outstanding career-best in the Dublin Chase last time out. However, that was primarily a function of Special Tiara setting such a strong pace that Min settled rather than running away with himself. Min is unexposed in those circumstances – and the same ideal scenario will be provided here, not only (again) by the titleholder but also Ar Mad in first-time cheekpieces (for as long as he lasts, racing left-handed). Previously, Min only ever enjoyed a lead in the 2016 Supreme when finishing a seven-length second to Altior. That gap can be closed because Min got injured that day, has had an incomparably smoother preparation for this race and looks a far better chaser than he was a hurdler. Of course, a strong pace will also suit Altior, whose muted performance in last year’s Arkle was probably due to the tepid fractions set by Charbel until his fall two out. The latter hasn’t been the same horse since and this is much hotter. Arkle third Ordinary World was set to be a flattered second to Min last time until blundering through the last. He might pick up some pieces late but only if most of the big guns fail to fire for whatever reason. The same applies to God’s Own, who can make mistakes here but shaped better than the literal form last time out behind Waiting Patiently at Kempton. Politologue was improbably (yet plausibly, given how Paul Nicholls prepares his spring Festival horses) less fit than Altior when they met in the Game Spirit but the suspicion remains that a flat track plays to his strengths more than does Cheltenham. Selection: Already advised 30/11/17: Min 8/1 with Paddy Power/Betfair 6 Min39 711-10OR: 167D 7/2 Form: 2/11-1D1T: W P MullinsJ: P Townend Last run Live betting powered by Other Day Two selections The only handicap I feel inclined to get involved in is the Fred Winter, partly because this column’s ante-post book already is – with Act Of Valour, who’s now vying to be sent off favourite. His defeat of Look My Way (1lb better off and also a player) at Newcastle is strong form and, after a blip for which there were health-related excuses, so is his latest second to We Have A Dream (this week declared a Triumph non-runner) when he gave that short-priced favourite a fright before finishing the race like a horse in need of the run. Connections flirted with cheekpieces but have opted to go without. Esprit De Somoza also enters my calculations at around 16/1. He thrived on an overly strong pace at Huntingdon two starts ago and allowed the year-older The Russian Doyen to rather get away from him at Exeter last time. He’s a good-looking beast and surely capable of better. If you fancy a big-priced whack, Embole is far from being a no-hoper. Back now: Esprit De Somoza at 16/1 with William Hill Already advised 04/03/18: Act Of Valour at 12/1 for the Fred Winter Already advised: Duc De Genievres at 12/1 BOG NRNB for the Coral Cup = no bet 6 Esprit De Somoza22 411-6OR: 135BFD 12/1 Form: 512T: Nick WilliamsJ: Lizzie Kelly (3) Last run
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 14, 2018 9:04:16 GMT
Wednesday: going, weather & non-runners Cheltenham GOING: SOFT (Heavy in places) (GoingStick 4.4, Cross-Country 5.0) (Rail movements: Races 1 & 3 -26yds) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 2:50 Project Bluebook (26) 5:30 Herecomestheboom (8) Huntingdon GOING: SOFT (Good to soft in places) (GoingStick: Hurdle 6.1; Chase 5.8) (Rail movements: Races 1, 4 & 7 +80yds, Race 2 +85yds, Race 3 +99yds, Race 5 +115yds and Race 6 +93yds) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:45 Royal Marskell (9) Southwell (AW) GOING: FIBRESAND: STANDARD WEATHER: Partly cloudy STALLS: 5f - Centre; Remainder - Inside NON RUNNERS: 2:35 Shanakill Star (3) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Mostly cloudy STALLS: 7f - Outside; Remainder - Inside
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 14, 2018 9:05:07 GMT
With a strong breeze blowing at Cheltenham on Wednesday morning, clerk of the course Simon Claisse has raised the possibility of day two of the festival starting on soft ground.
The official description remained soft, heavy in places on all courses - chase, hurdle and cross-country - overnight but there is a chance the going could be changed for the second day in a row.
"We've had a dry night and that hasn't really affected the going," Claisse said. "There is a strong breeze blowing this morning and it may well be that when we kick off at 1.30 we change the ground to soft all round. We'll see how things dry out over the next few hours."
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Post by Kimmy on Mar 14, 2018 9:07:02 GMT
CHELTENHAM
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
1.30 Next Destination (nb)
2.10 Dounikos (nap)
2.50 Mount Mews
3.30 Min
4.10 Cause Of Causes
4.50 Lisp
5.30 Carefully Selected
GIMCRACK
1.30 Samcro
2.10 Monalee (nb)
2.50 Max Dynamite
3.30 Altior
4.10 Cause Of Causes
4.50 Nube Negra (nap)
5.30 Blackbow
BALLYMORE NOVICES' HURDLE
1.30: GRADE ONE — 2 MILES 5 FURLONGS
Samcro is perceived as the banker of the week for many and it is difficult to knock his claims given he destroyed a Grade 1 field in the Deloitte Hurdle in style at Leopardstown. That was the third of three wide-margin hurdles victories this winter and he boasts a potent combination of speed and stamina allayed with a sound hurdling technique.
He will clearly be very difficult to beat, but there look some decent novices in opposition, not least NEXT DESTINATION , who has looked a very useful operator in his own right this winter.
In the face of Samcro's brilliance, there is a chance Next Destination is in danger of being underestimated despite being unbeaten in all three hurdles, the last victory achieved in Grade 1 company. He too boasts a sharp turn of foot for a stayer, usually travels smoothly and jumps well and represents a stable who have won four of the last 10 renewals.
Black Op could prove the pick of the home contenders as he was unfortunate not to win on Trials Day when flattening the last before being picked up late on by Santini. He boasts plenty of class and possesses the all-important course experience.
BEST BET: NEXT DESTINATION
NEXT BEST: SAMCRO
RSA NOVICES' CHASE
2.10: GRADE ONE — 3 MILES
Four of the last nine winners of this event ran in the Flogas Chase won by Monalee at Leopardstown last month and given that runners from the previous year's Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle have won the RSA five times from 20 attempts, Henry De Bromhead's seven-year-old makes plenty of appeal.
Monalee jumped and raced with great enthusiasm at Leopardstown, showing no ill-effects of his fall at that venue over the festive period, and he displayed a terrific will to win to fight off a host of challengers. The only slight reservation is his stamina over the trip on really deep ground. DOUNIKOS, fourth to Monalee that day, looks one rival likely to appreciate a war of attrition as he was doing all his best work at the death and appears to be crying out for a test of stamina. He has been re-routed from Tuesday's NH Chase, which suggests connections feel he has a touch of class too.
Presenting Percy posted a terrific effort behind Gold Cup aspirant Our Duke in the Red Mills Chase at Gowran. Outspeeded after the last, he wasn't knocked about and is trained by Pat Kelly, a master of preparing a horse for the big day.
BEST BET : DOUNIKOS
NEXT BEST: PRESENTING PERCY
CORAL CUP HANDICAP HURDLE
2.50: GRADE THREE — 2 MILES 5 FURLONGS
Ruth Jefferson and her staff have performed with great dignity and no little skill since the death of her father Malcolm this year and the decision to return to hurdles with MOUNT MEWS could prove an inspired decision.
Connections have wisely aborted a chasing campaign which was stuttering and stumbling even if the selection was trying to mix it with the likes of Black Corton and Wotzizname at Ascot and Doncaster respectively. There is also a school of thought that Mount Mews may appreciate coming back in trip given he had the pace to finish second to Pingshou in an Aintree Grade 1 Hurdle over two miles last spring.
Wednesday's test on very soft ground should be ideal and he makes plenty of appeal. Topofthegame belied his inexperience to land a competitive Sandown handicap last time and his stamina will be a valuable ally on Wednesday afternoon. Ben Pauling is another trainer with a strong hand and Le Breuil and Red Indian have been targeted at this handicap, while River Frost, beaten eight lengths in this race 12 months ago, could be a live one at a price.
BEST BET: MOUNT MEWS
NEXT BEST: RIVER FROST
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