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Post by dennisg on Apr 13, 2018 6:34:14 GMT
Min found only Altior too good at Cheltenham and in that rival's absence, Anita Chambers fancies him to land the JLT Melling Chase at Aintree. Min found only Altior too good at Cheltenham and in that rival's absence, he could take all the beating in the JLT Melling Chase on day two of the Grand National meeting at Aintree. Willie Mullins' charge served it up to his old rival in the Champion Chase, but just as in the 2016 Supreme Novices' Hurdle, Altior had too many guns and Min had to settle for a creditable second. That was still an excellent effort, and Mullins switches back up to two and a half miles here, a distance we know he stays having won over it on his seasonal return. Ryanair hero Balko Des Flos clearly represents some stiff competition over this intermediate trip, but Min just has a touch of class and can put his pace to good use in the finish. Terrefort is interesting stepped up to three miles and a furlong in the Betway Mildmay Novices' Chase. He chased home Shattered Love in the JLT at Cheltenham and was previously a Grade One winner over two and a half miles at Sandown, when his superior stamina saw him just hold off Cyrname. While he has yet to run over this distance, he was placed over two miles and six furlongs when trained in France and his half-brother, Vino Griego, certainly saw out three miles well, which offers some further hope. Nicky Henderson bypassed a shorter option earlier in the week at Aintree, and the hint should be taken. Santini can make it an extra special day for the Seven Barrows team up stepping up on his Festival third in the Doom Bar Sefton Novices' Hurdle. Ben Pauling set his sights on the Betway Top Novices' Hurdle for Global Citizen following a wide-margin win back in February and his plan can now come to fruition. A nine-length victory in the Dovecote saw his rating rocket to 149 from 130, ruling out possible handicap aims at both Sandown and Cheltenham while prompting Pauling to bring this Grade One heat into consideration. The six-year-old actually boasts the highest mark here against some much more highly-tried rivals and he can complete his transition to top novice level, with ground conditions not a concern. Paul Nicholls can bring up a notable double via Danny Kirwan and Art Mauresque. Danny Kirwan lines up in the Weatherbys Racing Bank Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race and he can take this step up to Grade Two company in his stride. Art Mauresque should appreciate the drop back in trip to two miles and five furlongs in the Randox Health Topham Handicap Chase after finding three miles a tough test at Kempton last time. Black Sails can make a splash in the Matchbook Betting Podcast Handicap at Kempton as she switches from novice company. Archie Watson's runner was rated 87 earlier in the season, but a couple of defeats have seen her mark drop to her current perch of 80. Moving back up to six furlongs here is another factor in her favour as the minimum trip looked far too sharp on her most recent outing. Samharry was only narrowly beaten on his 2018 debut and can go one place better in the Better Odds With Matchbook Handicap. He went down by just a neck at Newcastle last month and while he is not one of John Gosden's stable stars, he should be capable at this level. Sporting Life tips: AINTREE: 1.45 Storm Home, 2.20 GLOBAL CITIZEN (NAP), 2.50 Terrefort, 3.25 Min, 4.05 Art Mauresque, 4.40 Santini, 5.15 Danny Kirwan. BALLINROBE: 5.30 Edna, 6.00 Reach Up, 6.30 Icario, 7.00 De Benno, 7.30 Smokey Joe Joe, 8.00 Eagle Roque. KEMPTON: 5.45 Beloved Knight, 6.15 Samharry, 6.45 Puds, 7.15 Initiative, 7.45 Black Sails, 8.15 Sassie, 8.45 Ubla. NAAS: 1.40 Land Force, 2.15 Scream, 2.45 Band Of Outlaws, 3.20 Making Light, 3.55 Capri, 4.30 St Gallen, 5.10 Hunting Horn. SEDGEFIELD: 2.00 Pc Dixon, 2.30 Red Danaher, 3.05 Ilaya, 3.40 Frankie Ballou, 4.15 Glittering Love, 4.50 Hepburn, 5.20 Birch Bank. DOUBLE: Global Citizen and Min.
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Post by dennisg on Apr 13, 2018 6:37:44 GMT
Sky Bet head racing compiler Richard Horner with his horse-by-horse guide to the 2018 Randox Health Grand National. Minella Rocco () A talented but slightly inconsistent chaser and also not the most reliable conveyance for these fences as he has failed to complete in four of his last eight starts, including a fall at Leopardstown last time out. The likely ground conditions don’t look like they will be in his favour here and he was taken out of the Cheltenham Gold cup due to the soft ground there. No doubt has the ability and stamina to go well if things drop his way on the day but, at the current price, he would be one I would pass over under top weight on the ground. Blaklion () Looked the winner of the race last year when powering clear four out but in hindsight his jockey may have gone for home too soon and was headed at the last fence. Again showed his liking for these fences when winning the Becher Chase here in December but then hardly had the ideal warm-up for this race when walking home in a remote second in heavy ground at Haydock behind Yala Enki. Has undergone a minor wind operation since that run and positive vibes are coming from the yard, but he races off a 9lb higher mark than last year and again stamina doubts may just concern followers over the final furlong or two, if still in contention. Anibale Fly () The choice of Barry Geraghty from the J P McManus runners and is now the pick of the weights, for which he is now officially 9lbs well-in, following his excellent third to Native River in a very strong Cheltenham Gold Cup and could have been a touch closer without a couple of minor errors four and three out. Should stay the distance well and if his jumping holds up, which is a worry having fallen heavily two starts back at Leopardstown, he must go well. Anibale Fly The Last Samuri () A very good horse over these fences having raced over them on four occasions finishing placed three times, including an excellent second in the 2016 running behind Rule The World. His one disappointing run was in last year’s renewal when only finishing 16th which was a rare below-par run for him when his trainer said he was upset by the delay to the race. As long as that was a one off he should be one of the horses that hits the frame again but with his higher handicap mark he may again find one or two too good. Valseur Lido () The three-time Grade One winning chaser will be having his first run here in a handicap and on his old form would have a good chance but there hasn’t been much encouragement from recent runs including when last of three finishers behind Koshari at Clonmel last time. Owners Gigginstown House Stud already have the Irish National under their belts this year, but couldn’t back this one on recent evidence. Total Recall () A much-improved performer this season since joining the Irish champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins and won his first three starts for the yard including when coming over to England to win the Ladbrokes Gold Cup at Newbury. Was running a good race in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last time but was just beginning to feel the pinch when taking a fairly heavy fall four fences from home. Has the class to be competitive but not the ideal prep for a National coming here after a fall, so is passed over at current odds. Alpha Des Obeaux () A case can be made for him on some of his form including when chasing home Total Recall in the Munster National on his seasonal reappearance at Limerick and he meets that rival on much better terms here but he has been a bit in and out since, including a poor run last time when last of six finishers at Leopardstown. The other worry is that he has bled twice when racing over fences so that must be a worry over this test. Perfect Candidate () A good servant to his up-and-coming yard with seven career victories to his name including a win at Cheltenham in November. Struggled in this race last year and even though it would be no surprise to see him put up a much better show this time around, it would still be a surprise to see him winning off his current handicap mark. Shantou Flyer () Produced what was probably his career best effort last time when going down narrowly to Coo Star Sivola in the Ultima Handicap at Cheltenham and is one of the few in the line-up coming here in good form. With 19-year-old top apprentice James Bowen taking the ride he should get a good spin off him and, although stamina will be a doubt, he had no luck last year in the race when badly hampered and eventually pulled up, so a better run this time is very likely. Sky Bet are paying SIX places on the National Tenor Nivernais () Trainer Venetia Williams struck with a 100/1 winner of this race with Mon Mome in 2009 and this one will be a similar price but he was well beaten in the race last year off the same handicap mark. There has been nothing in his two starts this season to suggest a much better outcome this time around and he couldn't be backed on recent evidence. Carlingford Lough () A five-time Grade One winning chaser, he would have a serious chance on his best form and should be suited to this sort of trip these days. Hasn’t raced since Christmas and he looks as though he has been trained this year with this race in mind and, if taking to it and getting into an early rhythm, could prove dangerous although can sometimes get quite a way behind early and that style of racing doesn’t usually suit the National. Vicente () If this race was run at Ayr on good ground Vicente would be just about favourite with him being a two-time winner of the Scottish National, that race seems to bring out the best in him.The drier the ground the better his chance would have been but he got no further than the first fence last year and comes here off the back of a poor run when pulled up on his unfavoured soft surface at Cheltenham last time, so questions to answer here on the likely going and couldn’t be backed for me. Tiger Roll () Being a three-time winner at the Cheltenham Festival is some feat which he achieved winning this year’s Cross Country Chase which was the same route Cause Of Causes took before finishing runner-up here last year. He has every chance if in similar form and has the profile to go well even though he has no experience of these fences and is only a fairly small horse and was no doubt trained with the Cheltenham Festival in mind. Regal Encore () Comes here after a win at Ascot once the weights for this race were published so gets no rise in the weights and is theoretically 4lbs well-in but he was beaten off this same mark in last year’s National so although he may not win , a better run is likely coming into the race in better form. Vieux Lion Rouge () Has run in the previous two Nationals, finishing seventh in 2016 and sixth last year, looking to fail for stamina at the business end on both occasions. Connections have trained him differently this year and must feel there is a chance on him lasting home otherwise they surely wouldn’t be trying again but on what we have seen a similar result looks the most likely. Vieux Lion Rouge Chase The Spud () No doubting stamina for this one with him winning the Midlands National at Uttoxeter over this trip on soft ground last season. However, after victory on his seasonal reappearance at Haydock he has run badly twice and pulled-up on both occasions, so couldn’t be fancied here on that sort of form. Warriors Tale () Owner Trevor Hemmings has bought this gelding to try and improve his impressive National record after wins with Ballabriggs, Hedgehunter and Many Clouds, and this one comes here on the back of a big run when narrowly beaten in the Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster in January. He is normally very consistent and travels strongly, so no doubt his jockey will try to hold onto him as long as possible as there must be a question mark on his stamina at this sort of trip. Seeyouatmidnight () Looked a potential future Grand National contender when running a close third in the Scottish version in 2016 off the same handicap mark behind Vicente but has only managed four runs since then in two years so clearly hasn’t been the easiest to train. He had his first outing for a year recently at Newbury over an inadequate trip to qualify for the National and after racing prominently for quite a way he tied up badly, no doubt needing the run. Much more will be needed here if he is to figure and it will be a fine training performance from Sandy Thomson if he can manage to pull it off. Has very recently been bought by the owners that tasted success with Party Politics in this race so they must see him as a likely contender although not enough in his Newbury run for me to back here at current odds. Gas Line Boy () Goes well at Aintree and after looking sure to have won here in October when falling three fences out, he made amends over these fences when winning the Grand Sefton next time out. He has a career high mark to overcome as a 12-year-old but it’s not too hard to see him hitting the frame this year after finishing a gallant fifth in the 2017 renewal. The Dutchman () Looked an interesting National contender with a nice win in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock in January when running out a comfortable winner. Things didn’t go as well next time out at the same course though, when he was pulled up after breaking a blood vessel. If that problem does not resurface he has the sort of profile to go well as he is still an unexposed younger horse with the right sort of weight for this test. Pleasant Company () Was the mount of Ruby Walsh last year and all was going well until a shuddering mistake at Valentine's five from home which knocked the stuffing out of him and he could only manage ninth after that. No doubt he would have finished closer without that blunder but it’s very hard to say that cost him the race the way he finished. Only had two runs this season with no doubt this race in mind and no surprise to see him go well for the Willie Mullins team. Ucello Conti () Having his third try in the race following a good run in 2016 finishing sixth after a bad mistake at the 19th spoilt his chance and also when unseating his jockey in last year’s race eight fences from home when still in with some sort of chance. A big run on reappearance in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown when second to Anibale Fly who he meets again on 9lb better terms for the seven lengths beaten would give him every chance here, but he did run poorly on his most recent run when pulled-up at Gowran in January and could have done with the ground a bit better to help his chances of getting home over the trip. Ucello Conti Saint Are () Lots of experience over the fences here with mixed results but his CV does include two places in the National including when third last year off the same mark. Two poor efforts this season could be best overlooked as he may be the sort of horse that only now runs to form over this unique test. Hard to see him winning now as a 12-year-old but no surprise to see him run well again and he could even hit the frame for the third time. Beeves () Racked up a hat trick of wins this time last season but now finds himself on a career high mark as an 11-year-old. He showed a bit of promise when running over these fences last year and ran okay for a while in the Cross Country at Cheltenham last time out but it’s hard to see him being good enough here and is an unlikely winner. Raz De Maree () Only one teenager has placed in the last 48 years so this Irish raider has that statistic to overcome, but he comes here on the back of a victory in the Welsh National at Chepstow in January and the more rain there is, the better for this mud lark. This will be his third attempt at the Grand National with his best attempt finishing eighth in 2014 and, although wouldn’t be a surprise to see him better that placing, it would be if he won. I Just Know () Looked an ideal sort of candidate for this type of race when easily winning the North Yorkshire Grand National at Catterick, jumping soundly as usual up with the pace and running out a good winner. He had his prep run over hurdles at Uttoxeter when a test of speed was never going to suit him and he could run a big race for trainer Sue Smith who tasted National success with Auroras Encore in 2013 as he is still fairly unexposed and shouldn’t have a problem with the ground or trip so an interesting contender. Virgilio () Runs well at Aintree, recording three of his seven career wins at the course, although this will be his first run over these fences. Been a bit disappointing in his two starts this season but has had a wind operation since his last run so, if that has worked, he could be a lively outsider although ideally he would have liked a bit faster ground to give his stamina more of a chance. Baie Des Iles () A game staying mare who loves soft ground so with the likely conditions she could run a big race here as the form of her third at Punchestown last time looks strong form with the front two that day both going close in the recent Irish National. Only a seven-year-old which have a poor National record but with quite a bit of chasing experience, she will be suited to a thorough test and can give the very capable Katie Walsh, who rode Seabass around here, another good spin. Has been well backed this week and not hard to see why and one of the possible winners if taking to the course well. Maggio () Another of the teenagers who have the bad record to overcome and he also didn’t seem to take to these fences when last of the ten finishers in the 2015 Topham Chase, which suggests he may well struggle here. The positives are an easy course win two years ago shows he likes the Merseyside air and it does look as though this is the only day that matters this season, so might be one of the big priced horses that surprises. Pendra () Doesn’t stand much racing these days and this isn’t the sort of test he wants as he showed in the race two years ago. A poor run at the Cheltenham festival when weakening badly as if amiss was not the sort of prep run required and he is easily passed over. Buywise () Has always been prone to give the odd fence a belt so was a surprising runner back in 2016 in which he did well to get round but was never dangerous under Paul Moloney, who had an excellent completion record in the National before retiring . He showed the ability is still there with a win at Sandown in January but I’m not convinced he wants this sort of stamina test over these fences and I couldn’t back him here. Childrens List () From the Willie Mullins team and the more the ground dries out the better his chance as he didn’t seem to get home over a shorter trip than this last time out at Punchestown, so the extra distance will be a worry here. Has some fair form to his name including a win over Edwulf, who went on to win the Irish Gold Cup this year, but still it will be a surprise if good enough here on ground likely to be too soft for him. Lord Windermere () A former winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup back in 2014 but that was his last victory and he has been fairly lightly raced since, suggesting he hasn’t been the easiest to train. Ran quite well last year to finish seventh and was just starting to make a bit of headway when falling at the tenth in this seasons Becher Chase, so a bit of ability is still there but it will be surprising if he can land another big prize at the age of twelve. Captain Redbeard () The stable star for his small yard and a credit to connections winning seven times in his career, he comes here in good form after a good second in the Peter Marsh at Haydock and a warm up win over hurdles at Ayr should have put him spot on for this. Stamina would have to be a slight doubt though and the one time he tried these fences he didn’t run too well when finishing a well beaten sixth in the Grand Sefton in December but comes here in better form now so not one you could rule out. Houblon Des Obeaux () Was a never dangerous tenth in last year’s National from a higher handicap mark when the ground was a bit livelier than ideal for him and warmed up for this with a decent third at Ascot in March behind Rathlin Rose. Soft ground would be an advantage to him as he will be staying on when others have cried enough and wouldn’t be a total surprise if he got in the money at a big price. Mon Mome finished 10th in the National the year before he won it for the same trainer Venetia Williams so could lightning strike twice as the yard is in tremendous form this week with seven winners. Houblon Des Obeaux Bless The Wings () A good horse in his time but, after a fall in the Cross Country at Cheltenham, he ran no sort of race from a lower handicap mark in the Irish National less than a fortnight ago and seems a bit harsh making him turn out again here considering the form he looked to be in there. Milansbar () To be ridden by the top-class Bryony Frost who has made a big name for herself this season including when winning on this fella in the Classic Chase at Warwick in January. She should get another good spin around here as Milansbar has continued in good form and was second in the gruelling Midlands National over this sort of trip, so there’s no worry about his stamina but may find a few better handicapped now. Final Nudge () Has run some nice races this season including a good third in the Welsh National but he has been running as though stamina may be a problem at this trip as he usually travels strongly but doesn’t quite get home. No doubt the jockey will try and hold onto him for as long as possible to try and nurse him home but he’s an unlikely winner. Double Ross () Came back to a bit of form when a good fourth in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham last time out after bleeding the time before and has been over the National fences before. His stable have a good record over the National fences but stamina is likely to be a problem here and Blaklion looks very much the stable number one contender. Road To Riches () Has some very useful form in the past including a third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2015 behind Coneygree. However it has been a long time since he scaled those heights, his latest start seeing him pull up at Punchestown. Hard to fancy on recent evidence. Summary: With the hope the ground is still very much on the soft side a chance is taken at a nice price on HOUBLON DES OBEAUX to outrun his odds and could reward each way backers. Baie Des Iles should go well for Katie Walsh too.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 8:20:49 GMT
Friday: going, weather & non-runners Aintree GOING: SOFT (Heavy Canal Turn on Grand National course) (Rail movements - R1 +55yds, R2 & 7 +44yds, R3 +62yds, R4 +47yds, R5 +4yds and R6 +69yds) WEATHER: Showers NON RUNNERS: 2:20 Irish Roe (15) 4:05 Vibrato Valtat (9)Highland Lodge (18) Ballinrobe GOING: HEAVY (The two chases at this meeting are cancelled - one hurdle race will be divided to form a 6-race card) WEATHER: Showers NON RUNNERS: 7:00 Crazywork De Vassy (8) 7:30 Lambs Lane (17) Kempton (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Cloudy STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 8:45 Connemera Queen (9) Naas GOING: HEAVY (Soft to heavy in places) WEATHER: Showers Sedgefield GOING: HEAVY (GoingStick: Chs 4.0, Hdl 3.9) (Rail movements: R1 & 3 +19y, R5 +23y, R7 +32y) (Fence 5 omitted) WEATHER: Scattered showers NON RUNNERS: 4:50 Shine Away (2)
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 8:21:26 GMT
BANKER
Casima (8.15 Kempton)
Archie Watson's three-year-old filly steps up in class to contest this Class 5 handicap but has performed well for the trainer in two starts this season and looks likely to follow up her recent Wolverhampton success. She was giving away plenty of weight to a subsequent winner when finishing third at Chelmsford on her reappearance and, despite drifting badly on track when last seen, she quickened away well to beat an above average field for the grade. Up just 4lb for that win, she now tackles a longer trip that should suit.
13/8 Casima 8:15 Kempton (AW) EYECATCHER
Bouvreuil (4.05 Aintree)
This Paul Nicholls-trained seven-year-old has age on his side – unlike most of his rivals – and looked primed to run a huge race at Cheltenham when well-supported before being brought down at the second fence in the Grand Annual. He's racing off the same mark of 142 here, which leaves him well handicapped, and has form over these fences when tenth in this race last year behind the reopposing Ultragold. He's 3lb lower in the ratings this time around and he's almost certainly improved since then. JP McManus looks to have a strong hand and Bouvreuil looks his best chance.
14/1 Bouvreuil 4:05 Aintree DARK HORSE
Landin (1.45 Aintree)
Nicky Henderson has done well in Friday's opening Grade 3 handicap hurdle over the last few years and consequently Lough Derg Spirit has to be feared, but Seamus Mullins' Landin sneaks in at the bottom of the weights and looks good value at around 16-1. With just 10st 3lb on his back after Daniel Sansom's 5lb allowance, the five-year-old comes here on the back of victories at Sandown and Lingfield and has Grade 1 form on his CV from last year. He impressed when scoring at the Surrey venue last time out, beating Cheltenham festival runner-up Remilluc by a comfortable four lengths and his trainer often does well with runners at this track.
14/1 Landin 1:45 Aintree 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 Apr 13, 2018 8:21:56 GMT
Project Bluebook goes well at this time of year. The five-year-old has won in this two-week period for the last two seasons and can enhance his record in the 1.45 at Aintree.
Alba Del Sole (6.45 Kempton) is one to note for Ivan Furtado on handicap debut. The trainer operates at a 23 per cent strike-rate with such runners, for a tidy £41.50 level-stakes profit.
Al Dancer is interesting in the 5.15 at Aintree in a first-time hood for Nigel Twiston-Davies. The trainer is 4-10 when employing the tactic, so expect an improved effort from the five-year-old.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 8:22:26 GMT
Newmarket: David Milnes
Central City (7.45 Kempton, nap)
Hugo Palmer's sprinter was a consistent sort last year and is primed for his reappearance after a workout at Chelmsford last week. The three-year-old is well drawn and has the services of James Doyle.
Others to follow Kempton 6.15 Samharry, 6.45 Excellent Sunrise, 8.15 Polar Light, 8.45 Mime Dance
9/2 Central City 7:45 Kempton (AW) Lambourn: James Burn
Theatre Territory (4.05 Aintree, nap)
Consistent mare looked at home when sailing over the mock Aintree fences in Lambourn last week, won't mind the trip, track and ground and should go well for top amateur Sam Waley-Cohen, who has a fine record on the National course.
Others to follow Aintree 1.45 Lough Derg Spirit, 2.20 Style De Garde, 2.50 Terrefort, 4.40 Santini, 5.15 Mister Fisher. Kempton 5.45 Ipsilante, 6.15 Spirit Of Belle, 6.45 Puds, 7.15 Chagatai, 7.45 Black Sails, 8.15 Folies Bergeres, 8.45 Grecian Devine.
9/1 Theatre Territory 4:05 Aintree North: Colin Russell
Highland Lodge (4.05 Aintree, nap)
Dropping back in trip, but on a good mark now and as he excels over these fences is expected to bounce back after a lesser run last time.
Others to follow Aintree 1.45 Project Bluebook, 2.20 Bedrock, 2.50 Testify, 3.25 Cloudy Dream, 4.40 Sam's Gunner, 5.15 Highland Hunter. Kempton Alba Del Sole. Sedgefield 2.00 Pc Dixon, 2.30 Red Danaher, 3.05 Ilaya, 3.40 Frankie Ballou, 4.15 Knockrobin, 4.50 Avondhu Pearl, 5.20 Broadway Belle.
14/1 Highland Lodge 4:05 Aintree West Country: Andrew King
Bouvreuil (4.05 Aintree, nap)
Finished down the field in this race 12 months ago and not that easy to win with these days, but has his chance with plenty in his favour.
Others to follow Aintree 1.45 Storm Home 2.20 Vision Des Flos 2.50 Ms Parfois 3.25 Politologue 5.15 Danny Kirwan.
14/1 Bouvreuil 4:05 Aintree Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Vision Des Flos (2.20 Aintree, nap)
Bolted up at Exeter following a wind operation and confirmed himself a smart novice when running well at the Festival. The drop back in trip should not be a problem and he sets a good standard.
9/2 Vision Des Flos 2:20 Aintree Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Dotted Swiss (6.45 Kempton)
Made a successful seasonal return over the minimum trip at Lingfield ten days ago and can shrug off her penalty over this extra furlong.
10/3 Dotted Swiss 6:45 Kempton (AW) Longshot: Ed Quigley
Shanahan's Turn (4.05 Aintree)
Shaped better than the bare result in a hot handicap at Cheltenham last time out, and has now dropped to an attractive mark.
22/1 Shanahan's Turn 4:05 Aintree Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Crezic (6.00 Ballinrobe)
The Gordon Elliott-trained five-year-old can get off the mark over hurdles at the fourth attempt. Runner-up at Naas in February, he was vying for the lead when falling at the final hurdle on his most recent start at Limerick and can score under Jack Kennedy.
4/5 Crezic 6:00 Ballinrobe The Raceform Interactive nugget
Nicky Henderson has won the Topham Chase three times in the last five years with horses priced at 14/1, 9/1 and 10/1 and he's had two more placed in this period at 25/1 and 12/1. O O Seven, who was fourth last year, looks the pick of his two runners at 4.05.
11/1 O O Seven 4:05 Aintree 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 Apr 13, 2018 8:23:37 GMT
AINTREE
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
1.45 Spiritofthegames (nap)
2.20 Vision Des Flos
2.50 Elegant Escape
3.25 Balko Des Flos
4.05 Theatre Territory (nb)
4.40 Roksana
5.15 Danny Kirwan
GIMCRACK
1.45 Storm Home
2.20 Global Citizen (nap)
2.50 Terrefort
3.25 Min (nb)
4.05 Art Mauresque
4.40 Santini
5.15 Danny Kirwan
TOP TIPPING TREBLE
Marcus Townend who rewarded his followers with the winners of the first three televised races.
We Have A Dream (2-1) and Might Bite (8-13) came home before 7-1 shot L’Ami Serge. Peter Scudamore then landed his nap in the day’s final race with Getaway Katie Mai at 5-2.
He also tipped We Have A Dream and Might Bite, as did Sam Turner.
2.20: BETWAY TOP NOVICES' HURDLE
Global Citizen impressed at Kempton last time and connections were at pains to keep him fresh for this test.
That could prove to be a wise move and Global Citizen will be tough to beat because his cruising speed is beyond that of many of his rivals and he appears a high-class novice in the making.
But, while VISION DES FLOS may not have earned that status yet, he ran with great credit in the Ballymore behind Samcro at Cheltenham when appearing to not quite get home and he may relish today’s drop back in trip.
A wind operation prior to an easy Exeter success on his penultimate start looked to have ironed out any issues and Colin Tizzard’s team wasted no time in striking with a winner in the shape of Finian’s Oscar yesterday.
BEST BET: VISION DES FLOS 5-1
2.50: BETWAY MILDMAY NOVICES' CHASE
The times yesterday suggested the ground on the chase course was a little softer than that on the hurdles track, which should play to the strengths of Colin Tizzard- trained ELEGANT ESCAPE who relishes a severe test of stamina.
Tizzard’s novice chasers were seen in a good light on day one of the meeting and six-year-old Elegant Escape ran a blinder behind Presenting Percy in the RSA Chase at last month’s Festival, sticking to his task gamely up the Cheltenham hill to claim third place.
There does not appear to be any horse of Presenting Percy’s calibre in this field, even if Terrefort is a very useful animal in his own right, yet Elegant Escape may even improve again in the first-time cheekpieces.
Nicky Henderson enjoyed a terrific opening day to the National meeting with three winners and Terrefort remains a horse of interest, even if he is yet to confirm his stamina at today’s trip.
BEST BET: ELEGANT ESCAPE 11-2
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 8:24:26 GMT
3.25: JLT MELLING CHASE
Min will be popular for this race and understandably so given Altior needed to hit overdrive at Cheltenham to wrestle the Queen Mother Champion Chase from his grasp.
There looked a likelihood of a mini upset when Min moved to the front two fences from home that day, but he had no answer to the winner and I wonder if it will be a similar scenario today.
Min’s keen running style can leave him vulnerable late on to a closer such as BALKO DES FLOS who could well appear late on the scene in the hands of Davy Russell who was seen to great effect in the Ryanair Chase, in which the duo picked off Un De Sceaux before bounding clear on the run-in. A repeat of those tactics from Russell may make him difficult to resist late on.
BEST BET: BALKO DES FLO 2-1
4.05: RANDOX HEALTH TOPHAM H'CAP CHASE
Although THEATRE TERRITORY has a string of placed efforts to her name, her attitude is spot on and she could shed her maiden tag over fences at the sixth time of asking.
The likes of Cheltenham winner Mister Whitaker and Ms Parfois have both proved narrowly too good for Warren Greatrex’s novice, who has run highly creditably in defeat.
Her latest effort in a well-contested Kempton handicap was a further sign of promise and her rider boasts a fine record over the National fences for an amateur.
Others which catch the eye include Polidam. His performance in a hot Leopardstown handicap has taken a couple of sizeable boosts since and he could run a huge race.
BEST BET: THEATRE TERRITORY 10-1
4.40: DOOMBAR SEFTON NOVICES' HURDLE
Nicky Henderson appears to hold a vice-like grip on this with Santini, Ok Corral and Chef Des Obeaux all renewing rivalries following their efforts in Cheltenham’s Albert Bartlett Hurdle behind winner Kilbricken Storm.
Chef Des Obeaux should be more at home on a flatter track and can leave behind a dismal effort, while there doesn’t appear a lot between the other Seven Barrows representatives, with Santini also likely to appreciate the more galloping nature of Aintree.
However, all three endured hard races in the Cotswolds and ROKSANA could take advantage at a bigger price. A strong, well-built type, she landed the mares’ finale at Newbury in style and Dan Skelton was quick to enthuse about her qualities afterwards.
BEST BET: ROKSANA 14-1
PETER SCUDAMORE - EIGHT TIMES CHAMPION JOCKEY
PETERN SCUDAMORE'S SELECTIONS
1.45 STORM HOME
2.20 LALOR (e/w)
2.50 BLACK CORTON
3.25 MIN (nap)
4.05 BEAU BAY
4.40 ROKSANA
5.15 MISTER FISHER
STORM HOME (1.45) has really stepped up to the plate in his last two runs with relatively easy wins at Taunton and Wincanton.
He faces a far stiffer task in the opening race at Aintree today but he was a fairly expensive purchase whose early form suggests he could punch his weight at higher levels than this. MIN (3.25) looked like he was going to give Altior a run for his money in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.
Willie Mullins’s seven-year-old was eventually beaten seven lengths by Altior but I still think, under Paul Townend (left), he will have too much speed for Balko Des Flos. LALOR (2.20) won the Bumper at this meeting last season and looks a decent each-way shot for the Grade One Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle.
CAPTAIN HEATH'S SELECTIONS
1.45 MASSINI’S TRAP
2.20 VISION DES FLOS
2.50 TERRE FORT
3.25 BALKO DES FLOS
4.05 BIGB ADJOHN (nap)
4.40 POETIC RHYTHM
5.15 DANNY KIRWAN
FORMCAST'S SELECTIONS
1.45 ZUBAYR
2.20 GLOBAL CITIZEN (nap)
2.50 MIA'S STORM
3.25 MIN
4.05 KILCREA VALE
HOTSPOTS
Work whisper: Coolanly (Aintree, 2.20)
Weighting game: Tellovoi (Kempton, 8.45)
Down 9lb from last winning mark.
Burnt fingers: Curious Fox (Kempton, 6.45)
Captain Heath trio
Bigbadjohn (nap) (Aintree, 4.05)
Balko Des Flos (nb) (Aintree, 3.25)
Vision Des Flos (Aintree, 2.20)
Formcast special bet Global Citizen (Aintree, 2.20)
SEDGEFIELD
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
2.00 Pc Dixon
2.30 Red Danaher
3.05 Bulkov
3.40 Frankie Ballou
4.15 Knockrobin
4.50 Shine Away
5.20 Broadway Belle
GIMCRACK
2.00 Pc Dixon
2.30 Red Danaher
3.05 Ilaya
3.40 Frankie Ballou
4.15 Glittering Love
4.50 Hepburn
5.20 Birch Bank
KEMPTON
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.45 Wynfaul The Wizard
6.15 Dark Alliance
6.45 Dotted Swiss
7.15 Towelrads Boy
7.45 Royal Household
8.15 Show Of Force
8.45 Ubla
GIMCRACK
5.45 Beloved Knight
6.15 Samharry
6.45 Puds
7.15 Initiative
7.45 Black Sails
8.15 Sassie
8.45 Ubla
NAAS
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
1.35 Land Force
2.10 So Long Marianne
2.40 G Force
3.15 Making Light
3.50 Capri
4.25 Tony The Gent
5.00 Hunting Horn
GIMCRACK
1.35 Engles Rock
2.10 Scream
2.40 Golden Spell
3.15 Larchmont Lad
3.50 Capri
4.25 Harvey Specter
5.00 Gardens Of Babylon
BALLINROBE
ROBIN GOODFELLOW
5.30 Turanga Lily
6.00 Crezic
6.30 Great Khan
7.00 De Benno
7.30 Mary Frances
8.00 Eagle Roque
GIMCRACK
5.30 Edna
6.00 Crezic
6.30 Icario
7.00 Pete So High
7.30 Arctic Skipper
8.00 Hammerstein
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 13:00:26 GMT
After the pageantry of Ladies' Day at Aintree, Kempton takes over in the evening with a seven-race card. Here are three to look out for. . .
Gas Monkey 5.45
There's quite a bit of necessary guesswork in the opener, a handicap for three-year-olds rated up to 55. Most don't have much form to go on, and that includes topweight Gas Monkey, who beat just three of 24 rivals in his three maidens as a juvenile.
However, his dam Bavarica improved significantly for the same yard over longer trips and Gas Monkey, now gelded, steps up beyond 7f (and generally at sharp tracks) for the first time and it would be reasonable to expect some improvement on his all-weather debut. Bavarica, incidentally, won four times on Polytrack.
9/1 Gas Monkey 5:45 Kempton (AW) Sir Roderic 6.15
Sir Roderic is a latecomer to the all-weather, mostly because he's been asked to take on Class 2 handicappers for most of his career. He ran in, among others, the Spring Mile, Spring Cup, International Handicap and Betfred Mile last year.
He didn't really feature in any of the big prizes, but a peak mark of 97 has now slipped to 79 ahead of this all-weather debut. He is also being ridden by Oisin Murphy, who has won four times on Sir Plato from the same yard but tonight rides the class-dropper.
10/1 Sir Roderic 6:15 Kempton (AW) Scenery 7.45
Unlike the first race, there is a bit more to go on when assessing a race full of three-year-olds rated up to 85. In this race, it is bottom weight Scenery that draws the eye most.
He improved from his first start to his second, and a backwards step on the third can be easily forgiven on account of it being in a valuable sales race at Newmarket. His previous third at Ascot, behind subsequent Doncaster Stakes winner Speak In Colours, looks like good form and, on his first run since being gelded, he enters handicaps off a mark of 73.
7/1 Scenery 7:45 Kempton (AW)
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 13:01:53 GMT
SATURDAY.
SCOOP 6 1:45 AINTREE Gaskells Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m½f RUK 22 runners 2:25 AINTREE Betway Mersey Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) Cl1 (4yo+) 2m4f ITV 14 runners 3:40 AINTREE Betway Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (5yo+) 3m1f ITV 17 runners 4:20 AINTREE Ryanair Stayers Hurdle (Registered As The Liverpool Hurdle) (Grade 1) Cl1 (4yo+) 3m½f ITV 11 runners 5:15 AINTREE Randox Health Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade 3) Cl1 (7yo+) 4m2½f ITV 43 runners 6:20 AINTREE Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle (Conditional Jockeys' And Amateur Riders' Race) Cl2 (4yo+) 2m½f
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 13, 2018 17:32:45 GMT
Leicester, 13 Apr 18 Fixture Note Abandoned - Waterlogged Nothing to report View Stewards report Aintree, 13 Apr 18 Race 1 - 1:45pm THE ALDER HEY CHILDREN'S CHARITY HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 3) Permission was given for EATON HILL (IRE) to go early to post.
The performance of LANDIN (GER), which was pulled up, was considered. The representative of Seamus Mullins could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. LANDIN (GER) was routine tested.
Following the race, the representative of Tom George reported that SUMKINDOFKING (IRE), unplaced, was unsuited by the going on this occasion, which was officially described as Soft, and would prefer a faster surface. The Veterinary Officer reported that IVANOVICH GORBATOV (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 2 - 2:20pm THE BETWAY TOP NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) IMPACT FACTOR (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.
The winner, LALOR (GER), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Newbury on 10 February 2018 where the gelding finished thirteenth of twenty-four, beaten by 39 lengths, on Soft going. Kayley Woollacott’s explanation was noted that LALOR (GER) had jumped more fluently on this occasion and was better suited by today’s ground, which though officially described as Soft, in her opinion was less testing than the ground at Newbury. The gelding was routine tested.
Following the race, Nico de Boinville reported that STYLE DE GARDE (FR), which was pulled up, weakened quickly turning into the home straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 3 - 2:50pm THE BETWAY MILDMAY NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) The performance of COO STAR SIVOLA (FR), which was pulled up, was considered. Nick Williams could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of COO STAR SIVOLA (FR), during routine testing, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Following the race, Brian Hughes reported that TESTIFY (IRE), which was pulled up, hung left-handed. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding revealed it to have lost its left hind shoe. The Veterinary Officer further reported that SNOW FALCON (IRE), which was pulled up, had bled from the nose.
Race 4 - 3:25pm THE JLT MELLING STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) Permission was given for POLITOLOGUE (FR) to lead the Parade and MIN (FR) wore earplugs throughout the race.
Following the race, Davy Russell reported that BALKO DES FLOS (FR), placed fourth, weakened quickly after jumping the second last fence. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding, during routine testing, failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer further reported that the winner, POLITOLOGUE (FR), lost its right hind shoe and SIZING GRANITE (IRE), placed third, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 5 - 4:05pm THE RANDOX HEALTH TOPHAM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) RATHLIN ROSE (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.
Having reviewed recordings of the false start, the Starters were satisfied that no riders should be reported for contravening the starting procedures.
An enquiry was held into the start of this race. The Starters, Assistant Head Groundsman, Richard Johnson, the rider of VILLAGE VIC (IRE), Davy Russell, the rider of CLARCAM (FR) and Daryl Jacob, the rider of POLIDAM (FR), were interviewed. Having heard their evidence where the Starter stated that after effecting the start, as the runners galloped away from him, he realised that part of the tape had not risen sufficiently on the inside, causing several jockeys to have to duck in order to avoid the tape. The riders interviewed stated that they had ducked to avoid the tape and had not suffered any disadvantage as a result. The Starter further stated that all pre-race procedures in testing the starting mechanism had been completed satisfactorily and could offer no explanation how this malfunction had occurred. Their explanations were noted and a report forwarded to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority for their consideration.
The winner, ULTRAGOLD (FR), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Cheltenham on 15 March 2018 where the gelding finished thirteenth of twenty-two, beaten by 46 lengths. Colin Tizzard’s representative’s explanation was noted that ULTRAGOLD (FR) appreciated the return to Aintree having performed well there in the past. The gelding was routine tested.
Following the race, Aidan Coleman reported that O O SEVEN (IRE), which was pulled up, was never travelling comfortably. Daryl Jacob reported that POLIDAM (FR), placed ninth,suffered interference on several occasions throughout the race and weakened after passing the Elbow. The Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that POLIDAM (FR) lost both its front shoes and the gelding was routine tested. Conor O’Farrell reported that GREYBOUGG, which was pulled up, hung left-handed. The Veterinary Officer subsequently reported that the gelding was struck into on its left fore. The Veterinary Officer further reported that FLYING ANGEL (IRE), placed tenth, lost its right hind shoe and BALLYALTON (IRE), placed fifth, lost its right fore shoe and was struck into on its right fore.
Race 6 - 4:40pm THE DOOM BAR SEFTON NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) SANTINI wore earplugs which were removed at the start.
UPPERTOWN PRINCE (IRE), placed fourth, did not enter the winner’s enclosure on veterinary advice.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that LOUSE TALK (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its right fore shoe, POINT OF PRINCIPLE (IRE), placed seventh, lost it right fore shoe and the winner, SANTINI, lost its right hind shoe.
Race 7 - 5:15pm THE WEATHERBYS RACING BANK STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 2) Permission was given for MERCY MERCY ME to wear a hood in the Parade Ring.
The Veterinary Officer reported that a kit bag search of John Ryan, the trainer of NORMAL NORMAN, revealed possession of Restore-Lyte Gel, an electrolyte replacement supplement. John Ryan's representative, the Stable Inspecting Officer and the Veterinary Officer were interviewed. The trainer's representative’s explanation that it was unopened and had not been used was noted. Being satisfied that the gelding had received only normal food and water by mouth on the day of racing, the Stewards allowed NORMAL NORMAN to run and the gelding was routine tested. They further confiscated the substance, ordered that it be tested, and referred the matter to the Head Office of the British Horseracing Authority.
The performance of DANNY KIRWAN (IRE), which started favourite and finished unplaced, was considered. The representative of Paul Nicholls explained that although the gelding had only run twice, it has been in training a long time and is in need of a break. DANNY KIRWAN (IRE) was routine tested.
Following the race, Thomas Garner reported that NORMAL NORMAN, which was pulled up, stopped quickly. View Stewards report Sedgefield, 13 Apr 18 Race 1 - 2:00pm THE BETFRED 'TREBLE ODDS ON LUCKY15S' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Permission was given for ROMAN NUMERAL (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race Joe Colliver reported that STRAIT RUN (IRE), placed seventh, was never travelling.
Race 2 - 2:30pm THE BETFRED 'SUPPORTS JACK BERRY HOUSE' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) On the bend turning into the home straight, BOBONYX, placed second, lugged left, briefly tightening up the winner, HERESMYNUMBER (IRE), but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was found that no riding offence was involved.
Following the race Mr Kane Yeoman reported that RED DANAHER (IRE), unplaced, was never travelling during the final circuit.
Race 3 - 3:05pm THE BETFRED 'PASSIONATE ABOUT RUGBY LEAGUE' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race Tony Kelly reported that ANIMATED HERO, which was pulled up, made a mistake at the second and third hurdles and lost confidence thereafter. The Veterinary Officer reported that ANOTHER GO (IRE), placed third, had a wound on its left hind pastern and GREEN LIGHT, placed fourth, had lost its left fore shoe.
Race 4 - 3:40pm THE BETFRED 'HOME OF GOALS GALORE' NOVICES' HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for PADDLING to wear a hood in the Parade Ring.
Race 5 - 4:15pm THE BETFRED TV 'NATIONAL HUNT' NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The winner, JUST BOBBY (IRE), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Sedgefield on 28 January 2018 where the gelding finished third of five, beaten 46 lengths. Micky Hammond’s explanation that in his opinion the race today was weaker, was noted. JUST BOBBY (IRE) was routine tested.
Following the race, Ryan Day reported that GLITTERING LOVE, placed fourth, hung right-handed throughout. The Veterinary Officer reported that PHANTOM ISLE, unplaced, had a wound on its left fore pastern and TRUST ME I’M A DR (IRE), which was pulled up, was lame on its left fore.
Race 7 - 5:20pm THE BETFRED FOLLOW US ON TWITTER HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Prior to this race, Victor Thompson was asked to explain the reason why he was running MILLROSE BELL (IRE) here on going officially described as Heavy, having reported that the mare was unsuited by the Heavy going following its run at Hexham on 15 March 2018. The trainer’s explanation was noted that he believed the ground at Sedgefield today would be less testing than at Hexham which in his opinion was riding very deep. View Stewards report Kempton Park, 13 Apr 18 Race 1 - 5:45pm THE MATCHBOOK BETTING EXCHANGE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Marco Botti was fined £290 for failing to notify the Racing Calendar Office, until after declaration time, that SPRING PRAISE (IRE) had undergone Wind Surgery.
Permission was given for WYNFAUL THE WIZARD (USA) to go early to post.
Following the race Marc Monaghan reported that SPRING PRAISE (IRE), placed sixth, was never travelling. SPRING PRAISE (IRE) was routine tested. Silvestre De Sousa reported that AIGLETTE, unplaced, hung left-handed and Shane Kelly reported that SAINT ANTHONY, unplaced, missed the break.
Race 4 - 7:15pm THE MATCHBOOK CASINO NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 4) Permission was given for DRAGSTONE ROCK (IRE) to be mounted on the track.
Race 7 - 8:45pm THE BET AT racinguk.com HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) TELLOVOI (IRE) wore earplugs.
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Post by dennisg on Apr 14, 2018 7:05:26 GMT
in today's sporting life................. Our flagship racing tipster Ben Linfoot seeks out the best Value Bets on Grand National day including two in the big race and two on the under card. Recommended Bets: Value Bet Grand National Day For details of advised bookmakers and each-way terms, visit our transparent tipping record Richie McLernon got within a nose of winning the Randox Health Grand National when he was denied aboard Sunnyhillboy by Neptune Collonges back in 2012, but he can finally go one better when getting the leg up on REGAL ENCORE at 33/1 (1/4 1,2,3,4,5 bet365, 888Sport) at Aintree on Saturday. The 10-year-old, trained by Anthony Honeyball, has had a lovely Grand National prep, starting a year ago when he hunted round for eighth in the big race, never looking like getting involved but gaining essential experience of the famous fences. Now he’s been around before I’d expect him to be ridden more prominently and, despite his form reaching a new level this season, he’s allowed to race off the same mark of 150 as last year. Left on that number after a superb third place in the Ladbrokes Trophy (gets a 9lb pull for a nine-length defeat by Total Recall, one of the favourites for this), Regal Encore was pulled up at Ascot just before Christmas but bounced back to winning form at the same track just after the National weights were published. That win over old rival Minella Daddy showed that he’d improved in the past year, that he’s in the form of his life and that he has no issues with testing ground. It also means he’s 4lb well-in for the National and he looks to have the right mixture of talent and being on the right side of the handicapper. Second in the Champion Bumper in the first part of his career, he had a profile of a horse that might be considered a disappointment considering his early promise, but he looks to finally be in a place where he can land the biggest of pots. 14 Regal Encore56 1010-13OR: 150 SP Form: P8-03P1T: A J HoneyballJ: R P McLernon Last run Live betting powered by Conditions are going to be really testing and handling them will be crucial. It turned Heavy, Soft in places on the National course on Friday and we could have a race on our hands like in 2016 when Rule The World strung them out in soft ground. Of the eight horses that carried over 11 stone that day only two finished and one of those was previous winner Many Clouds, Oliver Sherwood’s charge finishing last of the 16 that made it home. It could be very hard work for those carrying big weights again and my shortlist consisted of horses in the bottom half of the handicap. I really liked Captain Redbeard a few weeks ago and I still do, but he’s been backed into the right price and beyond recently while Virgilio, a horse that was going to be my number one pick a week ago, has to prove himself on testing conditions. He’s got some superb form on good ground on the Mildmay course, has had a wind operation and looks well-handicapped, but I am worried about him after more rain. I Just Know looks a likely type for Sue Smith and he should be perfectly at home on the ground, but lack of experience over the fences does put me off him which left only a couple on the shortlist. Raz De Maree was one of those and if he jumps better than he ever has before he could well go close, but, at 100/1 (General 1/4 1,2,3,4,5) I can’t resist an each-way bet on MAGGIO. He’s 13-years-old and 5lb wrong at the weights, but there is plenty in this horse’s profile to suggest he’s got a big run in him at huge odds. Firstly, he loves testing ground. He’s run well in Haydock heavy and won on the Mildmay course at Aintree on soft at this meeting two years ago. That was a shock 50/1 success, but he won it by 12 lengths off a mark of 140 and he’s only 5lb higher on Saturday. It might well have been two years ago and he might well be 13, but he’s been pretty lightly-raced since then with all roads leading to this day. An injury ruled him out of the race last year but since returning this season he’s been gradually brought along, running over hurdles twice before the weights were published before qualifying with a run over fences at Down Royal last month. They weren’t particularly inspiring runs, but they didn’t really matter. It was all about getting him primed for this day. He shaped like a real stayer when hosing up at Aintree two years ago and that’s not his only good piece of form on the Mildmay course. He was third off 145 in a handicap chase before that and he also got round in the 2015 Topham, finishing 10th of 30 after always being in the rear following a mistake at the first. If you like a story in the National, he comes with one. His jockey, Brendan Powell, is aiming to win the race exactly 30 years after his father prevailed on Rhyme ‘n’ Reason, while his owners, Douglas Pryde and James Beaumont, are going for their second big shock in the race having won the 2013 renewal with Auroras Encore. From the small yard of Patrick Griffin, this would be another big upset. But conditions are in his favour and at the prices he’s worth a small bet. 29 Maggiot26 1310-8OR: 145C 66/1 Form: 504-443T: P GriffinJ: Brendan Powell Last run Live betting powered by Grand National Verdict REGAL ENCORE Maggio Captain Redbeard Virgilio Raz De Maree I Just Know Elsewhere on the card DEBECE looks a good bet at 11/1 (Ladbrokes, Coral) in the opening Gaskells Handicap Hurdle (1.45). His trainer Tim Vaughan has a good record at Aintree, with 10 career winners at 12 per cent, and Debece wasn’t far off adding to that number in two runs here last season when third on both occasions. The second of those was the last time he was seen, but it was in the Grade One Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle when he was beaten half-a-length by winner The Worlds End. That run suggests he’s well-handicapped off 141 and both times he’s encountered soft ground he’s won by 19 lengths. On top of that he’s won twice after breaks before, so the absence is not a concern, and he looks a good bet in the card’s opener. 7 Debece372 711-8OR: 141 15/2 Form: 123313-T: Tim VaughanJ: Alan Johns Last run Live betting powered by Finally, James Nash’s SCHEU TIME (10/1 General) looks the one to be on in the closing Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle at 6.20. Nash has a good record at Aintree and although things didn’t go so well for his Massini’s Trap at the meeting on Friday the ground looks very much in the favour of Scheu Time after his win on heavy at Thurles last time out. That was his third run over hurdles and it was by far his best, while his Catterick second reads well after the winner Sam’s Gunner went on to win the EBF Final by seven lengths off 125. It suggests Scheu Time could be well-treated off 124 and, at 10/1, with Katie Walsh aboard, he looks a decent wager in the finale on handicap debut. 14 Scheu Timeh21 510-4OR: 124D 15/2 Form: 424241T: J NashJ: Ms K Walsh Last run Live betting powered by Posted at 1700 BST on 13/04/18. 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: +388.14pts to advised stakes/prices (from inception of Value Bet column in January 2010 to current).
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Post by dennisg on Apr 14, 2018 7:07:37 GMT
Check out our team's 1-2-3-4-5-6 verdicts for the Randox Health Grand National including Oli Bell, Ed Chamberlin, Mike Cattermole, Alex Hammond, Lydia Hislop and Simon Holt. Click here for full racecard and free video form Most popular selection: 3 Anibale Flyt29 811-8OR: 159 12/1 Form: 2-591F3T: A J MartinJ: B J Geraghty Last run Live betting powered by (Click on tipster name for full link to preview) Oli Bell: 1 The Last Samuri 2 Milansbar 3 Blaklion 4 Seeyouatmidnight 5 Pleasant Company 6 I Just Know Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🏇 It's the turn of @olibellracing to reveal his Grand National selections... 1:25 PM - Apr 12, 2018 1 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy Matt Brocklebank: 1 Ucello Conti 2 I Just Know 3 The Last Samuri 4 Virgilio 5 Anibale Fly 6 Vieux Lion Rouge Mike Cattermole: 1 Anibale Fly 2 Total Recall 3 Seeyouatminight 4 Gas Line Boy 5 Shantou Flyer 6 Regal Encore Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 👀 With @skybet paying out SIX places in tomorrow's #GrandNational @catters61 offers his 'lucky half-dozen'... 🎥 Know it all... 10:00 AM - Apr 13, 2018 10 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy Ed Chamberlin: 1 Blaklion 2 Tiger Roll 3 Captain Redbeard 4 Virgilio 5 Lord Windermere 6 Houblon Des Obeaux Ben Linfoot: 1 Regal Encore 2 Maggio 3 Captain Redbeard 4 Virgilio 5 Raz De Maree 6 I Just Know Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🏇 Grand National Tips 💷 📽️ @chamberlinsport runs through his best bets for Saturday's Aintree showpiece! 11:21 AM - Apr 12, 2018 1 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy Lydia Hislop: 1 Anibale Fly 2 Blaklion 3 Shantou Flyer 4 Baie Des Isles 5 Double Ross 6 Raz De Maree Simon Holt: 1 Raz De Maree 2 Tiger Roll 3 The Last Samuri 4 Blaklion 5 Anibale Fly 6 Baie Des Isles Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🏇😲 "My hard taskmasters at Sporting Life want me to predict the FIRST SIX - IN THE CORRECT ORDER!" 🔮 Nevertheless, @simonholt3 tries his best to make the impossible possible...#GrandNational #Aintree 10:16 AM - Apr 13, 2018 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy Alex Hammond: 1 Total Recall 2 Tiger Roll 3 Blaklion 4 Ucello Conti 5 Captain Redbeard 6 Anibale Fly Richard Horner (head racing compiler Sky Bet): 1 Houblon Des Obeaux 2 Baie Des Iles 3 I Just Know 4 The Dutchman 5 The Last Samuri 6 Gas Line Boy David Ord: 1 Anibale Fly 2 The Dutchman 3 Virgilio 4 Total Recall 5 Warrior's Tale 6 Baie Des Iles Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🌎 World Record Attempt! 🤞 🏇🏻 Can @daveord and @benlinfoot possibly do a full #GrandNational horse-by-horse guide in a record-breaking 40 seconds? 👍🏻 Either way, it's a bloomin' good quick-fire horse-by-horse guide! 8:30 AM - Apr 13, 2018 7 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy Sporting Life pundits: Top six selections Using an approach so complex that several of the above team have had to reach for a calculator, we've combined the Sporting Life pundits' picks to unearth the first six home in the Grand National. The only question remaining is do we even need to watch the big race? Anibale Fly Blaklion The Last Samuri Virgilio Baie Des Iles I Just Know
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Post by dennisg on Apr 14, 2018 7:09:35 GMT
What the trainers are saying about their runners in the Randox Health Grand National at Aintree on Saturday. 1) THUNDER AND ROSES Mouse Morris, trainer "If you're not in, you can't win. I don't think the ground will be an inconvenience." 2) BLAKLION Nigel Twiston-Davies, trainer "I know he has gone up 8lb, but with a bit more restraint hopefully he'll be there." 3) ANIBALE FLY Frank Berry, racing manager "He ran a great race at Cheltenham and Tony Martin is very happy with him." Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🌎 World Record Attempt! 🤞 🏇🏻 Can @daveord and @benlinfoot possibly do a full #GrandNational horse-by-horse guide in a record-breaking 40 seconds? 👍🏻 Either way, it's a bloomin' good quick-fire horse-by-horse guide! 8:30 AM - Apr 13, 2018 7 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy 4) THE LAST SAMURI Kim Bailey, trainer "I just think he's a phenomenal jumper. Soft ground helps him a little bit as it slows the others down a bit." 5) VALSEUR LIDO Henry de Bromhead, trainer "He probably got bogged down in the ground in his last couple of starts. He's in great form." 6) TOTAL RECALL Patrick Mullins, assistant trainer "He has big-field handicap experience and a touch of class." 7) ALPHA DES OBEAUX Rachael Blackmore, jockey "I rode him in Leopardstown, but Aintree is very different. Hopefully he'll run a big race." 8) PERFECT CANDIDATE Fergal O'Brien, trainer "He didn't run too badly in it last year. With a better prep this year he should be a lot of fun if he gets round." 9) SHANTOU FLYER Richard Hobson, trainer "He's a much stronger horse this season. He got knocked sideways in the race last year and that's what made him pull up." 10) TENOR NIVERNAIS Liam Treadwell, assistant trainer "He got round last year and didn't do a lot wrong, so he deserves to take his chance." Sky Bet are paying six places on the National 11) CARLINGFORD LOUGH Frank Berry, racing manager "He's got some very good form in the book. He wouldn't want much more rain, though." 12) DELUSIONOFGRANDEUR Sue Smith, trainer "He ran very well at Haydock. I don't know if the ground is going against us a little bit but he has got no weight on." 13) TIGER ROLL Gordon Elliott, trainer "I think he's got a great profile. He's got 10st 12lb on his back, which is a lovely weight." 14) REGAL ENCORE Anthony Honeyball, trainer "It's just a case of having that same luck in running he had last year. He had a lovely run through last season." 15) VIEUX LION ROUGE David Pipe, trainer "He had a good National prep run at Ascot and the ground will be fine for him. He jumps well over those fences." 16) CHASE THE SPUD Fergal O'Brien, trainer "He's in great form and we are hoping the National will spark something in him." Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 💷 So where is the money going on the #GrandNational? We asked @skybet trader Andy Wootton. 🏇🏻 Tiger Roll? 🏇🏻 Anibale Fly? 🤔 Chasing The Spud?! Check out the full race card here 👉 bit.ly/2qr4lk0 3:45 PM - Apr 13, 2018 2 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy 17) WARRIORS TALE Trevor Hemmings, owner "He can run in all sorts of conditions. I'm hopeful." 18) SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT Sandy Thomson, trainer "Conditions shouldn't affect him, but it's the Grand National and anything can happen." 19) GAS LINE BOY Ian Williams, trainer "He has schooled over Grand National-type fences at home and his work has been good." 20) THE DUTCHMAN Colin Tizzard, trainer "He burst a blood vessel on his last run and came home all wrong. We've given him plenty of time to freshen up. He'll handle the ground well." 21) PLEASANT COMPANY Patrick Mullins, assistant trainer "We're hoping he might rediscover his spark and if he does, he has to have an each-way chance." 22) UCELLO CONTI Gordon Elliott, trainer "Ucello Conti has been going very well at home and I think he'll run well." 23) SAINT ARE Tom George, trainer "His whole campaign has been geared around another shot at the National - he's in his element there." 24) WALK IN THE MILL Robert Walford, trainer "If he gets into a rhythm he's the sort of good jumper who could go well." 25) RAZ DE MAREE Gavin Cromwell, trainer "I think I'm the only person who wasn't upset with all the rain recently and long may it last." Sporting Life ✔ @sportinglife 🏇😲 "My hard taskmasters at Sporting Life want me to predict the FIRST SIX - IN THE CORRECT ORDER!" 🔮 Nevertheless, @simonholt3 tries his best to make the impossible seem possible...#GrandNational 1:00 PM - Apr 13, 2018 3 See Sporting Life's other Tweets Twitter Ads info and privacy 26) I JUST KNOW Sue Smith, trainer "It wasn't the plan to run over hurdles last time it was because of all the meetings we've lost. He was good at Catterick in the North Yorkshire National." 27) VIRGILIO Dan Skelton, trainer "He has a good record around the Mildmay course. He's a big price but anything could happen." 28) BAIE DES ILES Katie Walsh, jockey "We're hoping she will take to the fences. She's a really solid jumper. She's got an attractive profile." 29) MAGGIO James Griffin, assistant trainer "We're realistic about our chances, but a completion for a small yard like us would be fantastic." 30) PENDRA Charlie Longsdon, trainer "He has had a wind operation since his last run. The only thing he wouldn't want is bottomless ground." 31) BUYWISE Evan Williams, trainer "The old horse is in remarkable form. Everything is good." 32) CHILDRENS LIST Patrick Mullins, assistant trainer "Childrens List beat Edwulf in his beginners' chase and if you take that form literally he's well handicapped." 33) LORD WINDERMERE Jim Culloty, trainer "He's in good form. He's fit. I'm happy with him." 34) CAPTAIN REDBEARD Stuart Coltherd, trainer "The horse has got the ability. I think he's proved that this season. He should handle the fences." 35) HOUBLON DES OBEAUX Liam Treadwell, assistant trainer "He ran with credit last year and he's in very good form." The Sporting Life Grand National tips The Sporting Life Grand National tips 36) BLESS THE WINGS Gordon Elliott, trainer "He is not getting any younger, but he's been second in the Irish National twice. A bit better ground would have suited him." 37) MILANSBAR Neil King, trainer "It's great to have Bryony (Frost) on board again. She schooled him over National-style fences the other day and all went well. He's in great form." 38) FINAL NUDGE David Dennis, trainer "It's a wet spring, which isn't a disadvantage. He's jumped much better this year than last season." 39) DOUBLE ROSS Carl Llewellyn, assistant trainer "He was running well in the 2016 National when the saddle slipped and looked to be taking to the track." 40) ROAD TO RICHES Noel Meade, trainer "He hasn't shown anything since he had that bad fall at Punchestown. We've done everything differently and he seems in great form - we've jumped him over some National fences."
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Post by dennisg on Apr 14, 2018 7:11:36 GMT
Our Catching Pigeons column has all the gossip ahead of a super Saturday of racing - and Gordon Elliott is fancied to win a second Randox Health Grand National. Saturday best bets: 22 Ucello Contit79 1010-10OR: 147 18/1 Form: 724U-2PT: G ElliottJ: D A Jacob Last run Live betting powered by 10 Red Indian31 611-6OR: 139 8/1 Form: 2-23326T: B PaulingJ: David Bass Last run Live betting powered by 11 On The Blind Side127 611-4OR: 153CD 7/4 Form: 1-111T: N J HendersonJ: Nico de Boinville Last run Live betting powered by Ucello Conti can erase the memory of his unlucky departure 12 months ago and give Gordon Elliot a second win in the Randox Health Grand National at Aintree on Saturday. Silver Birch's success in this race 11 years ago put Elliott on the training map, and he is now one of the most powerful forces in the game with another leading contender for this ultra valuable prize this time around in Tiger Roll. There is plenty of confidence behind that runner but there is also a strong belief that Ucello Conti will also play a leading role. Despite unseating Daryl Jacob at second Bechers last year, the selection has a sound record over the daunting National fences with his sixth in 2016 and a close fourth in The Becher Chase eight months later. Elliott has trained him very much with this race in mind and is reported to have him in tip-top shape. Ground conditions should suit him well enough and he has that touch of class usually required to win the race. Jacob, his regular partner who steered Neptune Collonges to a famous win in2012, is eagerly looking forward to renewing his association with the gelding and is also confident he can run a big race. Red Indian is a thoroughly consistent performer and should run his usual sound race in the Gaskells Handicap Hurdle. Ben Pauling's gelding was beaten only six-and-a-half lengths in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham last month and the manner on which he stayed on in the closing stages suggests he could find some improvement on what will be his first appearance over three miles. On The Blind Side can beat Black Op in a fascinating Grade One Betway Mersey Novices Hurdle. Nicky Henderson had high hopes of Cheltenham Festival glory for the selection after he landed an impressive win at Sandown in December but just failed to get him ready in time after some niggling training problems. However, the unbeaten six-year-old is now fit and ready for what will be his toughest test so far and his homework suggests he is more than ready for the step up to the top table. Tom George, trainer of Black Op, can enjoy better luck with Rocklander in the Betway Handicap Chase. A winner of two of his four chases so far this season, he ran arguably his best race when chasing home Mister Whitaker and Rather Be at the Cheltenham Festival last month. Both the winner and runner-up are very highly rated and were strongly fancied on the day and Rocklander gave the distinct impression he would appreciate this more demanding trip. Ian Williams is always a man to note at the big meetings on both the flat and jumps and can end the National meeting on a high with Michael's Mount in the Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle. A useful performer on the level for Ed Dunlop, he has won novices at Doncaster and Ludlow since his arrival at Camp Williams and ran another fine race to finish third to Global Citizen in the Sky Bet Dovecote Kempton in between. Williams has engaged top class conditional James Bowen to ride and he looks nicely weighted from a mark of 134. Salute The Soldier can make it third time lucky in the 188Bet Noel Fehily Grand National Blog Novice Stakes at Lingfield. Clive Cox's team fancied this three-year-old on his two outings last season at Newbury and Kempton and he ran sound races against decent opposition on both occasions. Although Betty F will take plenty of beating here, Salute The Soldier looks the type to improve for his winter break, and the Cox team have started the spring season in good form. West Wing would have finished a good deal closer than sixth to One Cool Daddy had he not met with trouble in running after a tardy start at Kempton on his debut and is expected to step up considerably on that effort in the Enhanced Place Odds at 188Bet Novice Stakes. He made good headway in the closing stages and will be suited by the step up from a mile to ten furlongs. Roger Varian's Hermosita has not raced since overcoming a slow start to win on her debut at Yarmouth last June but looks a filly with a future and is fancied to maintain her 100% record in the Contact Us At fclgf.com Fillies' Novice Stakes at Wolverhampton on Saturday evening. Mick Channon has enjoyed a great start to the campaign with his juveniles and debutant Knockabout Queen should go well from her advantageous draw in the FCL Global Forwarding EBF Fillies Novice Stakes.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 8:10:25 GMT
Saturday: going, weather & non-runners Aintree GOING: Mildmay & Hurdle - SOFT; National - HEAVY (Soft in places) (GoingStick: Mildmay & Hurdle 5.0, National 3.9) WEATHER: Partly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 1:45 Stamp Your Feet (21)Dream Berry (3) 5:15 Regal Encore (14)Walk In The Mill (24) 6:20 Chesterfield (2) Chepstow GOING: HEAVY (Soft in places) WEATHER: Scattered showers NON RUNNERS: 4:40 Darwins Theory (10) Leopardstown GOING: HEAVY WEATHER: Partly cloudy Lingfield (AW) GOING: POLYTRACK: STANDARD WEATHER: Scattered showers STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 2:30 Plentyinthetanksir (5) 3:05 Wink Oliver (1) 4:15 Hackbridge (4) 4:50 Test Valley (9)Bobby K (1) Newcastle GOING: HEAVY (INSPECTION 7am Saturday) (Rail movements - R1, 5 & 8 +40yds, R2 +20yds, R3 +45yds, R4 +15yds, R6 +25yds and R7 +10yds) (Hurdle 3 omitted) WEATHER: Mostly cloudy NON RUNNERS: 4:30 Rhymers Stone (5) 5:45 Dutch Canyon (8) Wolverhampton (AW) GOING: TAPETA: STANDARD WEATHER: Scattered showers STALLS: Inside NON RUNNERS: 7:30 Kg Passion (7) 8:00 Stapleford (4) 9:00 Desert Fox (7)Seprani (2)
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 8:10:59 GMT
Marco Botti and Andrea Atzeni have an impressive strike-rate when teaming up at Wolverhampton and they do so with Seprani (9.00). This progressive four-year-old can go well on her seasonal debut.
Simon West’s new recruits have a 33 per cent strike-rate when making their debuts for the yard. News For Pascal fits that trend in the 5.45 at Newcastle. This French import is interesting pitched into a handicap on his first run for the trainer.
John Gosden has operated at a 31 per cent strike-rate with his runners two weeks either side of Saturday’s date for the past five seasons. He sends West Wing to Lingfield (4.50). This gelding shaped with plenty of promise on debut and can build on that.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 8:11:33 GMT
Newmarket: David Milnes
Tivoli (8.00 Wolverhampton, nap)
Khalid Abdullah's filly showed that six furlongs and the all-weather were her bag when scoring at Kempton last backend when accounting for the useful Left Alone. John Gosden's three-year-old has worked nicely on the Al Bahathri of late.
7/4 Tivoli 8:00 Wolverhampton (AW) Others to follow Lingfield: 1.55 The Lacemaker, 2.30 Betty F, 3.35 Silent Attack, 4.15 Highcastle, 4.50 Dream Warrior, 5.40 Oceanus. Wolverhampton: 6.00 Verstappen, 8.30 Ocean Of Love, 9.00 Royal Mezyan.
Lambourn: Nick Deacon
On The Blind Side (2.25 Aintree, nap)
One of the leading middle distance hurdlers in the first half of the season, but has had his troubles since an impressive win at Sandown in December. However, he is back working in great form at Seven Barrows, and should be fit enough to do himself justice after his 127 day break. Faces his toughest opposition so far, but the fact that he had to give Cheltenham a miss, could now be an advantage.
Others to follow Aintree: 4.20 Thomas Campbell, 5.15 Milansbar. Lingfield: 2.30 Salute The Soldier, 3.05 Boycie, 4.15 Dorian Gray, 4.50 Definition. Wolverhampton: 6.00 Berkshire Royal, 7.30 Knockabout Queen, 8.00 Promising, 8.30 Bear Valley.
North: Colin Russell
I Just Know (5.15 Aintree, nap)
Progressive sort who romped home in the North Yorkshire Grand National at Catterick in January. Fine jumper who will be well suited by the stiff test of stamina and having been trained with this race in mind is fancied to give Sue Smith her second National winner.
18/1 I Just Know 5:15 Aintree Others to follow Aintree: 2.25 Better Getalong, 3.00 Lady Buttons, 3.40 Wakanda, 4.20 Sam Spinner, 6.20 William Of Orange. Lingfield: 3.35 Alfred Hutchinson, 4.50 Ferlinfeu. Newcastle: 1.30 Wor Verge, 2.05 Nortonthorpelegend, 2.40 Rivabodiva, 3.20 Pistol Park, 3.55 Henry's Joy, 4.30 Bulls Head, 5.00 Captain Sharpe, 5.45 Tomahawk Wood. Wolverhampton: 6.00 Taifbalady, 6.30 Miss Danby, 7.00 Dose, 7.30 Sesame, 8.00 Tivra, 8.30 Star Of The East, 9.00 Invincible Ridge. West Country: Andrew King
Vieux Lion Rouge (5.15 Aintree, nap)
Connections are hopeful it will be a case of third time lucky in the race. He will not mind the conditions and can make his presence felt.
33/1 Vieux Lion Rouge 5:15 Aintree Others to follow Aintree: 1.45 Louis' Vac Pouch 2.25 Lostintranslation 3.00 Diego Du Charmil 3.40 Ibis Du Rheu 6.20 Solatentif. Chepstow: 2.15 Heluvagood 4.05 Cucklington 4.40 Delface 5.35 Allchilledout 6.05 Golden Sovereign.
Racing Post Ratings: Steve Mason
Anibale Fly (5.15 Aintree, nap)
Posted a career best effort when staying on well to take third behind Native River and Might Bite in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and looks well handicapped off an official mark of 159.
14/1 Anibale Fly 5:15 Aintree Topspeed: Dave Edwards
Anibale Fly (5.15 Aintree)
Ran a blinder to finish third in the Gold Cup and can make a big impact in Saturday's marathon.
14/1 Anibale Fly 5:15 Aintree Longshot: Ed Quigley
Lord Windermere (5.15 Aintree)
2014 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner ran well in this race last year and was going well in this season's Becher Chase until falling. Looks well treated on old form.
66/1 Lord Windermere 5:15 Aintree Ireland: Tony O'Hehir
Christopher Robin (4.25 Leopardstown)
Placed on two of his three starts last season, the Aidan O'Brien-trained son of Camelot appeals on his handicap debut and with blinkers fitted for the first time. He should appreciate the step up to 1m2f and can score under Ryan Moore.
11/10 Christopher Robin 4:25 Leopardstown
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 Apr 14, 2018 8:12:03 GMT
BANKER
Sam Spinner (4.20 Aintree)
Wasn't given the best ride when sent off favourite for the Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival and, although he was swamped coming into the straight, he stuck on well for fifth. They went such a slow pace that day that the race was set up for speed horses Penhill and Supasundae, and I'm certain Joe Colliver will go off harder here on this proven stayer. He's still unexposed with just ten starts to his name and everything looks in his favour.
6/4 Sam Spinner 4:20 Aintree EYECATCHER
Ucello Conti (5.15 Aintree, Grand National)
You could do far worse than choose Gordon Elliott's Ucello Conti to win the 2018 running of the Grand National. Undoubtedly primed for this contest, the ten-year-old, who looked unlucky when unseating Daryl Jacob at Bechers last year, loves these fences and is sure to give owners Isaac Souede and Simon Munir a great thrill. He travels strongly through his races, stays all day and looks value at around the 20-1 mark.
20/1 Ucello Conti 5:15 Aintree GOOD THING
On The Blind Side (2.25 Aintree)
Having bypassed the Cheltenham festival, Nicky Henderson's On The Blind Side comes into this Grade 1 hurdle as a fresh horse and looks to maintain his unbeaten record of four wins from four races. He impressed when staying on stoutly to beat the reopposing Momella at Cheltenham in November, before clearing away from inferior rivals at Sandown when last seen in December. He goes well fresh – so that isn't a worry – and, although Black Op brings the best form into the contest with a second-place finish to Samcro, he will be paying the price for that run.
7/4 On The Blind Side 2:25 Aintree 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 Apr 14, 2018 8:12:33 GMT
4/1 Midnight Monty 5:35 Chepstow Ran two excellent races in Sandown military events on his last two starts, leaving the distinct impression he is capable of winning off his current mark.
The galloping nature of Chepstow’s 3m chase track on very testing ground should suit Midnight Monty well, and he looks a cracking bet to score for Jamie Snowden.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 8:14:23 GMT
GN.
Raz De Maree
Eighth in 2014 and forgiven his early unseat (jinked to avoid a faller) last year, although he's far from the most fluent jumper; there's a huge positive side to him on soft/heavy, though, as his second and first in last two editions of the Welsh National demonstrate; if this 13yo gets back in touch late on he could be finishing strongest of all.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 9:01:05 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 9:01:33 GMT
CHEPSTOW
Robin Goodfellow
2.15 Drewmain Legend
2.50 Beallandendall
3.30 Billingsley
4.05 Millanisi Boy
4.40 Delface
5.35 Looks Like Power
6.05 Golden Sovereign
Gimcrack
2.15 Three Colours Red
2.50 Beallandendall
3.30 Shivermetimbers
4.05 Kimberlite Candy
4.40 Ardmayle
5.35 Renard
6.05 Good And Hardy
NEWCASTLE
Robin Goodfellow
1.30 Granard
2.05 Whiskey Chaser
2.40 Gogo Baloo
3.20 Pistol Park
3.55 Grand Morning
4.30 Bulls Head
5.00 Captain Sharpe
5.45 Dolly’s Dot
Gimcrack
1.30 Granard
2.05 Whiskey Chaser
2.40 Gogo Baloo
3.20 Pistol Park
3.55 Everybody’s Talkin
4.30 Bulls Head
5.00 Black Kettle
5.45 Dutch Canyon
LINGFIELD
Robin Goodfellow
1.55 Sonnet Rose
2.30 Betty F
3.05 Secret Return
3.35 Sea Fox (nb)
4.15 Dorian Gray
4.50 Blame Culture
5.40 Ready
Gimcrack
1.55 The Lacemaker
2.30 Betty F
3.05 Secret Return
3.35 Sea Fox
4.15 Dorian Gray
4.50 Definition
5.40 Ready
WOLVERHAMPTON
Robin Goodfellow
6.00 Verstappen
6.30 Avocet
7.00 Pour L’Amour
7.30 Penniesfromheaven
8.00 Tivoli
8.30 Ocean Of Love
9.00 Invincible Ridge
Gimcrack
6.00 Trogon
6.30 Avocet
7.00 Dose
7.30 Polished
8.00 Hermosita
8.30 Ocean Of Love
9.00 Pea Shooter
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 9:02:11 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 9:02:39 GMT
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 17:32:57 GMT
Winx was hailed as an "exceptional athlete" as the star Australian mare claimed a 25th consecutive victory in the Group One Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick.
In doing so, she matched the great Black Caviar, who won just as many races on the spin.
Jockey Hugh Bowman said: "I'm just so elated. I'm so proud of her and I'm just so proud to be a part of it. She creates so much attention. She's just an exceptional athlete."
Winx, who was winning at the top level for an 18th time, will now be given time off before her quest to land a record-breaking fourth Cox Plate at Moonee Valley in October.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 17:33:44 GMT
Chepstow, 14 Apr 18 Race 1 - 2:15pm THE toteplacepot NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Oliver Greenall was fined £80 as the record of vaccinations on the passport of QUARRY WIZARD (IRE) had been altered.
Permission was given for BABYTAGGLE (IRE) to go early to post. LIZZIE LANGTON reared, unseating her rider, prior to this race. Having been examined by the Veterinary Officer upon arrival at the start, the filly was deemed fit to race.
The winner, DREWMAIN LEGEND, appeared to show improved form compared with its previous run at Plumpton on 12 February 2018 where the mare finished seventh of eight, beaten by 20 lengths. The trainer’s representative’s explanation that the gelding was better suited by being dropped in on a more galloping track, was noted.
Following the race, James Best reported that BIG PICTURE, unplaced, hung right-handed at the end of the back straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that ABBEY STREET (IRE), unplaced, was suffering from heat stress post-race.
Race 2 - 2:50pm THE totescoop6 PLAY TODAY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Permission was given for MAGUIRE'S GLEN (IRE) to go early to post.
Race 3 - 3:30pm THE totescoop6 IT'S A ROLLOVER NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) SHIVERMETIMBERS (IRE) made contact with a wall on the way out to the course. Having been examined by the Veterinary Officer, the gelding was deemed fit to race.
Following the race, Mr Hugh Nugent reported that SHIVERMETIMBERS (IRE), which started favourite and was pulled up, stopped quickly. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing, found it to be suffering from a fibrillating heart.
Race 5 - 4:40pm THE BET ON THE GRAND NATIONAL WITH totepool HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) Following the race, Micheal Nolan reported that GREAT LOVER (FR), unplaced, was never travelling.
Race 6 - 5:35pm THE totesport DOWNLOAD THE APP HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) Following the race, Mr Hugh Nugent reported that WALDORF SALAD, which was pulled up, stopped quickly.
Race 7 - 6:05pm THE COLLECT totepool WINNINGS AT BETFRED SHOPS STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 5) Following the race, Lucy Gardner reported that FLYING AWAY, unplaced, ran green, and Tom Buckley reported that his saddle slipped on NIKAP (FR), placed second. View Stewards report Newcastle, 14 Apr 18 Fixture Note Fence 4 (downhill fence) omitted in all chases due to ground conditions. Race 1 - 1:30pm THE vertem.co.uk NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) The performance of GRANARD (IRE) which started favourite and finished last of four finishers, was considered. The representative of Nigel Twiston-Davies could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 3 - 2:40pm THE THINK SMART AT VERTEM CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' TRAINING SERIES NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (Class 5) (Part of the Racing Excellence Initiative) HONEYCHILE RYDER, trained by Dianne Sayer, entered the Parade Ring after the signal to mount had been given. The trainer’s explanation that she had difficulty with the bridle when the nose band broke and it took time to find a suitable replacement, was accepted.
James Corbett, the rider of PLAY PRACTICE, placed fourth, had appeared to use his whip contrary to the Conditions of the race. After being interviewed and shown recordings of the incident, where he was accompanied by a Jockey Coach, Corbett was suspended for 7 days for improper riding in that he used his whip in the forehand after the second last hurdle.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that the winner, RIVABODIVA (IRE), had lost her right fore shoe.
Race 5 - 3:55pm THE sunbets.co.uk NORTHERN STAYING NOVICES' HURDLE SERIES FINAL NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) Following the race the Veterinary Officer reported that TRIXTER, placed fifth, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 6 - 4:30pm THE VERTEM - LEADING THE FIELD HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) The winner, SAKEE’S CITY (FR), appeared to show improved form, compared with its previous run at Uttoxeter on 17 March 2018 where the gelding finished tenth of eleven, beaten 29¾ lengths. Philip Kirby’s representative’s explanation that the gelding benefited from the change in tactics by being ridden more prominently today, was noted.
Race 7 - 5:00pm THE BREAK FROM THE HERD AT VERTEM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 5) LITTLE JIMMY, trained by Tom Gretton had entered the Parade Ring after the signal to mount had been given. After interviewing the trainer’s representative, the trainer was fined £140.
Race 8 - 5:45pm THE THINK DIFFERENTLY WITH VERTEM HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 5) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that ARIZONA BOUND (IRE), which was pulled up, had lost its right fore shoe. Stephen Mulqueen reported that KNOCKLAYDE (IRE), placed sixth, jumped left at the last hurdle and his saddle slipped causing him to lose his irons on the run in.
The performance of ANGE DES MALBERAUX (FR) which was pulled up was considered. The trainer’s representative’s explanation that the gelding was unsuited by the heavy going was noted. ANGE DES MALBERAUX (FR) was routine tested.
ARIZONA BOUND (IRE), jinked while being pulled up, causing Callum Bewley to be unseated on the approach to the second last hurdle. View Stewards report Lingfield Park, 14 Apr 18 Race 1 - 1:55pm THE GRAND NATIONAL 8 PLACES AT 188BET FILLIES' HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Inside the final furlong, Nicola Currie the rider of EMILY GOLDFINCH, placed fourth, struck the winner, PRIDE OF ANGELS, once over the nose with the whip but after viewing a recording of the incident, it was considered to be accidental.
Race 2 - 2:30pm THE 188BET NOEL FEHILY GRAND NATIONAL BLOG NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) The Starter reported that SALUTE THE SOLDIER (GER) refused to enter the stalls. Clive Cox was informed that the colt could not run until the day after passing a stalls test.
Following the race, Jim Crowley reported that JURZ (IRE), unplaced, hung left-handed up the home straight.
Race 3 - 3:05pm THE GRAND NATIONAL BETTING AT 188BET HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Permission was given for MAESTRO MAC (IRE) to go early to post.
Following the race, Tom Marquand reported that MOUILLE POINT, placed seventh, hung left-handed on the final bend and Nicola Currie reported that MISS MINUTY, placed fifth, was slowly away.
Race 4 - 3:35pm THE JACKIE WILLIAMS 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3) Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that IN THE RED (IRE), unplaced, lost its right fore shoe.
Race 5 - 4:15pm THE 188BET UP TO £75 CASH BONUS HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 6) Permission was given for RUM NATION to be mounted in the chute.
Race 6 - 4:50pm THE ENHANCED PLACE ODDS AT 188BET NOVICE STAKES (CLASS 5) Following the race, David Probert reported that MAKIN IT, unplaced, reared leaving the stalls. View Stewards report Aintree, 14 Apr 18 Race 1 - 1:45pm THE GASKELLS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) The performance of GOLAN FORTUNE (IRE), which finished unplaced, was considered. Phil Middleton explained that the gelding weakened quickly from the third last hurdle. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of GOLAN FORTUNE (IRE) during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Following the race, Harry Cobden reported that CONNETABLE (FR), unplaced, was never travelling and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer reported that SYKES (IRE), unplaced, lost its right hind shoe and FIXE LE KAP (FR), placed eighth, lost its left fore shoe.
Race 2 - 2:25pm THE BETWAY MERSEY NOVICES' HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) Following the race, Nico de Boinville reported that ON THE BLIND SIDE (IRE), placed sixth, weakened quickly from the second last hurdle and the Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities. The Veterinary Officer also reported that BETTER GETALONG (IRE), which was pulled up, lost its left hind shoe.
Race 3 - 3:00pm THE DOOM BAR MAGHULL NOVICES' STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) PETIT MOUCHOIR (FR) and SHANTOU ROCK (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.
It was noted that PETIT MOUCHOIR (FR), ridden by Davy Russell, went the wrong way to the start. Being satisfied that it was due to circumstances beyond the rider’s control, no further action was taken.
LADY BUTTONS, ridden by Adam Nicol, was not dismounted in the appointed place. Being satisfied that the mare was receiving veterinary treatment, no further action was taken.
Following the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that DELEGATE, placed sixth, was lame on its left fore.
Race 4 - 3:40pm THE BETWAY HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) Having reviewed recordings of the false start, the Starters were satisfied that no riders should be reported for contravening the starting procedures.
Following the race, Brian Hughes reported that HAMMERSLY LAKE (FR), which was pulled up, was hampered by the faller in the first circuit. The Veterinary Officer reported that WAKANDA (IRE), unplaced, was lame on its right fore.
Race 6 - 5:15pm THE RANDOX HEALTH GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 3) ALPHA DES OBEAUX (FR) wore earplugs which were removed at the start and PLEASANT COMPANY (IRE) and TOTAL RECALL (IRE) wore earplugs throughout the race.
ANIBALE FLY (FR), placed fourth, did not enter the winner’s enclosure on veterinary advice.
Following the race, Richard Hobson reported that SHANTOU FLYER (IRE), which was pulled up, had a breathing problem. The Veterinary Officer reported that ALPHA DES OBEAUX (FR), which fell, was lame on its right fore and SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT, unplaced, was lame on its left fore. The Veterinary Officer also reported that ANIBALE FLY (FR), placed fourth, CARLINGFORD LOUGH (IRE), which was pulled up, and RAZ DE MAREE (FR), unplaced, all suffered from post-race heat stress. The Veterinary Officer further reported that CHASE THE SPUD, which was pulled up, bled from the nose.
Race 7 - 6:20pm THE PINSENT MASONS HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' AND AMATEUR RIDERS' RACE) Permission was given for DEAR SIRE (FR) to be mounted in the chute and go early to post. View Stewards report Wolverhampton, 14 Apr 18 Race 1 - 6:00pm THE FCL GLOBAL FORWARDING HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 5) Permission was given for BROKEN FORCE (USA) to be mounted in the chute and go early to post.
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Post by Kimmy on Apr 14, 2018 17:35:10 GMT
Wolverhampton starts before the hubbub will have died down at Aintree. The minor cards on Grand National day often include more than their share of interesting types and here are three for this evening card . . .
Carraigin Aonair 7.00
The tailend of 2016 was a memorable time for Carraigin Aonair, who won a 23-runner handicap on Leopardstown's Flat finale card and then at Dundalk the following month, both over 1m4f.
It's been a struggle since, but that's largely reflected in her mark and she starts out in Britain rated 5lb lower than she was in Ireland when registering the first of her two wins in late 2016.
Crucially, she is also starting out for trainer Olly Murphy, who has already revived or improved many horses like her. Under suitable conditions and with Luke Morris booked, an explosive return is expected.
Knockabout Queen 7.30
The start Mick Channon has made with his two-year-olds this year has been electric. He has sent out four: three of them have won and the other, Kinks at Kempton last Saturday, was beaten a head.
Admittedly, Knockabout Queen doesn't immediately jump off the page as an early two-year-old, but she's hardly likely to be a backward type either. Her dam Rough Courte, whom Channon also trained, did all her winning as a three-year-old but showed her best form at two, while St Leger-winning sire Sixties Icon is well capable of getting two-year-old winners.
Of the standard-setters on what form there is, Penniesfromheaven was third to a Channon winner on debut, while Deia Glory showed bags of speed in what looked a good race at Newcastle on her first start and has drawn stall 1.
Logi 9.00
Logi made his debut for the Rebecca Bastiman yard in February over course and distance and was sent off a well-backed 2-1 favourite. He missed the break there and lost all chance with it then fared little better at significantly bigger odds over 6f at Newcastle next time.
The money is coming again here. He was offered at 25-1 to small stakes last night but came into 5-1 this morning. Given he was beaten a short head off 2lb higher as recently as September, that sort of money is worth noting.
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Post by dennisg on Apr 15, 2018 6:24:36 GMT
in today's sporting life................... Saint Are will remain at Aintree racecourse overnight after taking a fall in the Randox Health Grand National. The Tom George-trained 12-year-old came down at the Chair in the four-and-a-quarter-mile feature and after initially being treated on the track, he was taken back to the stables for further assessment. George reports his charge to be "shook up" but is hoping he will soon be able to return to his Slad yard. George said: "He's staying at Aintree overnight, but hopefully he's going to be fine. He was a bit shook up after a heavy fall, which he's not used to getting. "He's being looked after incredibly well. There were 10 vets to one horse at one stage. Everyone has been fantastic. He's in very good hands, I'm happy to leave him there overnight and I look forward to getting him home."
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Post by dennisg on Apr 15, 2018 6:27:10 GMT
Identity Thief took a step up to three miles in his stride to claim the Ryanair Stayers Hurdle at Aintree. Henry de Bromhead's charge is a Grade One winner over two miles having landed the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle back in 2015 and proved he retains plenty of ability when fourth in last month's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham. Having never raced beyond two and a half miles, the Gigginstown House Stud-owned eight-year-old was taking a step into the unknown on Merseyside, but saw out the extra distance comfortably to record a first victory since October 2016. Coole Cody adopted a pace-setting role for much of the way before folding, allowing 6/5 favourite Sam Spinner to take the initiative rounding the home turn. However, both Identity Thief and Wholestone picked him up fairly readily and it was the former, sent off at 14/1, who forged five lengths clear after the final flight in the hands of Sean Flanagan. De Bromhead said: "I'm delighted. You dream, but I wasn't expecting that. "You have to stay, but we just didn't know if he would or not. It was Sean's plan as he said he would love to go three miles. We said we would leave it to him how he wanted to ride him and fair play to Sean. "We came here for the two-and-a-half (Aintree Hurdle) last year and we rode him positively and he was disappointing on the day. "The way he ran in the Champion Hurdle, he stopped at halfway and ran on really well again at the end. We hoped the big step up would suit and it's fantastic. "We will enjoy today, but we've always felt he is a good horse as he won the Fighting Fifth. "He lost his form over fences but it is great to have him back and we will enjoy today. We've got him in the Stayers' Hurdle at Punchestown but we will see about that." Ryanair and Gigginstown supremo Michael O'Leary was thrilled to win another race he sponsors, having finally broke his duck in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham last month with De Bromhead's Balko Des Flos. He said: "It took me 15 years to win the first Ryanair then I get two in the space of a month! They all come along together like buses. It's great." Nigel Twiston-Davies, trainer of the runner-up Wholestone (7/2), said: "We've clearly got the best staying hurdler in Britain, but those pesky Irish keep coming and beating us! "He's run another blinder. Whether he stays over hurdles or goes chasing (next season) will have to be discussed." Jedd O'Keeffe said of Sam Spinner: "He's run another good race and has come an awful long way in a short period of time. "It looked to me like he was a tired horse, though, so I think that will be it for the season. "He definitely won't go to Punchestown and I don't think we'll go to France, either. "I suppose we'll have to school him over a fence at some stage, but Joe (Colliver) said he is still very babyish and is only six."
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