Irish Stamp
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Good to see you on here Dan - great blog as always.
Martin
Martin
Racing blog.
- Thread starter Colin Phillips
- Start date
A
ArkleSupreme
Guest
Welcome Dan...no relation to Ned are you ?
You could try Hurricane Fly if you're feeling brave, Dan
Or Arkle if you've got a death wish
A
ArkleSupreme
Guest
Thanks for the "heads-up" Dan !
Desert Orchid
Senior Jockey
- Joined
- Aug 2, 2005
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- 25,613
That's very much how I saw it, Dan, having felt these were the two to concentrate on, although I wasn't convinced at all by MLB's jumping on the first circuit. Nothing serious, just a lack of fluency, whereas The Package was pretty much flawless. It was the right result on the day (even though I ended up just backing MLB) and I wouldn't really expect too much from either in the near future.
Colin Phillips
At the Start
Updated at http://racingtictacs.wordpress.com/
Euronymous
Senior Jockey
Completely disagree with his assessment of the Novice Chase that started the Open meeting. Fingal Bay jumped every bit as well as the winner but just got out speeded.
I didn't like the shape he made over fences. Compared to Dynaste you'd think in a stronger run race that he would be far slower over his fences than the winner. Be interesting to see if he takes up entry at Newbury, personally think last years efforts + injury has bottomed him.
Thanks for link Colin, full copy below - Yesyoucan a nice winner at the weekend, eye on him since Haydock run and San Telm franking the form from a unpromising position at Cheltenham:
Post link and copy below to help keep posts on all one thread: http://wp.me/p1T1dH-3u
Cheltenham Open Meeting Debrief
CHELTENHAM OPEN MEETING DEBRIEF
CHELTENHAM 16-Nov-12 C&H: Good to Soft (Good in places) C&H: 6.9
1:15 – Novices’ Chase 2m 4f 110y
High quality Novices’ Chase, but Dynaste won this fairly emphatically. Jumping well for Tom Scudamore, he came to challenge coming into the straight, and sealed the win with a good jump at the last. Not devoid of pace, they didn’t go a searching clip here, I wouldn’t be afraid to stick at this trip for now. Connections are looking at same route as Grands Crus; Newbury and Feltham, but does he have the stamina for the RSA and with Our Father running well later on the card, will Pipe want to be double handed. Still, for the time being he showed more than enough to suggest he should be prominent in Ante Post markets for both Jewson and RSA.
Not sold on Fingal Bay’s at all, he didn’t impress me at Chepstow, not sailing over fences as opposed to Dynaste, he idled badly at Chepstow and for now I doubt we’ll ever see the horse that beat Simonsig at Sandown. Injury meant he missed Cheltenham last year, but before that he had a tough campaign early door, Persian War, Open Meet, Sandown and Challow, the last two were on desperate ground. One to swerve for the time being.
Unioniste put up a fair performance for a 4yo here in third, half bro to My Will 3m assignment looks on the cards.
Carlito Brigante was still there coming into the straight, but gave way. Rated 140, he’s bound to be back here in March for either the Novices’ H’Cap Chase or the Bryne Plate.
1:50 – Handicap Chase 2m
Not blown away by any of the first 3 home; Shooters Wood a former Hunter Chaser, application of tongue tie, 2m trips have seen form figures of 2221, now rated 132 will find it tough. Wetak improved for his run at Ascot, he has won both his chase starts in France over 2m2f yet relatively disappointed over further, so could see him return for the Jenny Mould Memorial Chase in December. Silver Roque continued his rich vein of form, and connections should be seeking to take advantage of a lenient hurdle mark of 104.
Astracad has been dropped 1lb for this run, and no doubt he too will come back for the Jenny Mould Memorial Chase next month, where he will be looking to win it off 6lb higher mark. Race will be ran over the New course, which has a long run to the 2nd last and is 110y further.
Kid Cassidy once again was in another post code for the majority of the race and as you can see from above the first 4 home were front rank throughout. Will we see him before the Grand Annual, that is the question.
This was a fair effort from Oh Crick and his jockey Joshua Newman. Joshua was only having his 6th ride here and acquitted himself well, allowing Oh Crick have daylight out wide, and jumping well enough throughout. He has been dropped to 142 for this run, and you’d think he will be able to win off that when given a slightly stiffer test either ground or trip.
2:25 – Sharp Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 110y
Farcical pace resulted in a sprint for home, which Dodging Bullets won. Ran some good races as a juvenile, 2nd in the Dovecote, 4th in Triumph and badly hampered at Aintree, he is one of the early markers when it comes to the Supreme Novice and that is the ultimate target, however it wouldn’t surprise me that even off levels couple behind him turn form round in March.
River Maigue won the Ayr bumper that Nicky Henderson usually sends a good one too, however on debut last year he was keen and here too he was a little keen. Hurdled well in the main, done for toe slightly coming into the straight (p2p winner where Dodging Bullets a mile winner on flat) but he will win soon enough.
Knocked sideways when saw the mark handicapper has given Court Minstrel, 131. He was held up off pace at Aintree in bumper, held up off pace on hurdles debut here in October and you could see from the off he was beat, but to his credit he ran a very sound race. Pulled a bit at times, he came into the straight with chances but jumped slightly left at last, bumping into Magic Spear 10yds after the flight and in 5th place, rallied well to finish a never near 3rd. Off 131 connections must surely now look at handicap route for him. We’ve seen in recent years with Darlan and Get Me Out Of Here that the Ladbroke/Betfair (formerly Totesport) is a decent route to the Supreme. To run in the Ladbroke he needs to have competed a minimum of three times in Hurdle Races, so they could look for a race in next week or two or keep him back for a tilt at the Betfair if they choose that route.
Duke Of Navan got a wakeup call early from Tominator, keen, and very wide as they left the stands. Nicky Richards said following his win at Newcastle they’d look for a nice little race with him, this was a nice little race indeed and the strength of it could point to the regard he is held in, or a sighter for what Nicky Richards has at home, Eduard.
Tominator didn’t jump well on debut, and was slow at times here. Northumberland Plate winner, a step up in trip must be on the horizon.
CHELTENHAM 17-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in places) 5.8
Ground was the softest it had been for some years, January 2010 matched it, slight worse in January 2009 – In short, tough work.
12:45 – Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 110y
Far West enhanced the favourable impression of Chepstow here and now takes his place at the head of the Triumph betting. Nicholls had schooled him extensively prior to his Chepstow run, and his jumping again was slick. Has a bit of knee action going on, so you’d worry about quicker ground, especially given the Triumph is on the Friday, but this ground got Heavy fairly quickly after only 6mm of rain, so could we be looking at a Soft Ground Festival?
Vasco Du Ronceray came into this race on the back of a facile win at Hereford, and hindered his chances by being keen early. Coming into the straight Barry Geraghty looked fairly comfortable, touching a low of 1.33 in running, but after the last he was put in his place fairly readily.
1:15 – Novices’ Chase 3m110y
Can’t help but be impressed by Our Father who turned this sound looking Novices’ Chase into a bit of a procession. Always been well regarded by connections, he is now 3 from 3 on seasonal debut, so there is a worry that he is best fresh but I think there has been excuses for below par runs. If reviewing his Ascot win last year, he looked very green still when hitting the front, travelling like the best horse throughout the race, similarly when beat at Chepstow when 4/9 fav, and at Newbury as a novice. Pertemps would have been a further shock to the system, and Aintree he didn’t run well at all. Another summer on his back, he comes back here bigger and better, and you would hope he’d carry his form through the season this year. Sire Collonges again put up a bold jumping display, he was giving 8lbs to Our Father, and in time this form will look a bit better than it does currently. Disappointed by Masters Hill here however Joe Tizzard made a point to the stewards that he was never travelling and as per review of his Chepstow run was unsure if he was the sort to catch fresh, still, I expect him to bounce back.
1:55 – Handicap Chase (Grade 3) 3m 3f 110y
Ding dong battle up the run in between two improving horses in Monbeg Dude and Bradley. Monbeg Dude unseated his rider here back in October when chance was not gone and if you look beyond the run at Newbury in March his form looks solid; Good 3rd to Glens Boy, a winner over 3miles at Lingfield and a point to point winner on easy ground at 5 so off his revised mark he could pop up in races of this nature/regional nationals before a tilt at the Welsh National next year. Bradley confirmed the promise shown back here in October when finishing behind Balthazar King, and comments then still apply now, still relatively lightly raced, and will run race when conditions suit, easy ground 3m+.
There was a lot to like about Viking Blond’s performance. Fought off numerous contenders for the lead, and didn’t buckle till late. Pulled up in last year’s Welsh National, he is 5lbs lower this time around and is worthy of another chance there. Any Currency hung late on, all wins have come on RH tracks, but connections seem to want to go for Beecher Chase rather than London National. Problema Tic ran well for a long way on ground he’d have hated, earlier in the season races like Charlie Hall, Hennessy and United House Gold Cup was mentioned, so the 2lb drop to 142 won’t go amiss when conditions favour him. Chicago Grey hit the 4th last hard, he is no forlorn hope off his mark, and Carruthers is now 2lbs below his Hennessy winning mark, if they can find some good ground for the latter he could be interesting.
14:35 – Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase (Grade 3 Handicap) 2m 4f 110y
Breathtaking performance by Al Ferof off 11-8 and it’s no surprise he is now generally 2nd Fav for the King George, but what happened last year? After reviewing this race a few times I think his worst jumps were at the last two fences, and he wandered late on too. No doubt many will think he was feeling the weight and conditions taking the toll on him, but I think he is a bit of a thinker. His form in double figure fields now reads F13112F111, single figure fields 3111343, the two falls were on debut in p2p, and when 3 lengths clear 2 from home here in Dec 10. His final 3 runs last year where in single figure fields, at Ascot, wide and didn’t travel, Arkle led at the 9th then duly banked the 10th, and Aintree wilted after making it. Be interesting to see the number of runners in this year’s King George, and if a small field, whether Ruby will try bury him out the rear early doors.
Walkon was thrown in off his mark of 143 given the form of Exeter run and that the ground had come into his favour. Raised only 5lbs to 148 be interesting to see if he can hold his form back here in December and could be a fair price if people desert him due to it being his second start.
Nadiya De La Vega ran a very fine race to finish 3rd to back up her good win here in October.
Of those beaten, Poquelin chance was gone from fall of flag, held up, on ground softer than ideal, 3lb drop to 160. Ground on quicker side in December, then he’d be high on the shortlist as the equivalent race is sponsored by Stewart Family and Poquelin’s form on New Course is superior to that of the Old Course. Grands Crus and Hunt Ball were the main disappointments of the race. Grands Crus didn’t travel with his usual zest, yet every possibility he was feeling the ground as he hasn’t convinced on easy ground, but connections are also looking at breathing op. Hunt Ball got beat off 102 on Heavy ground last year, and he too may have been inconvenienced by conditions, he will likely strip fitter for the run too and I’d look at a Graduation Chase to get him back on straight and narrow, or maybe a tilt at the Peterborough Chase and pit himself against Cue Card.
3:05 – Handicap Hurdle (Listed) 3m 1f 110y
Not sold on the form of this race. Lovcen is too high in the weights, they have an eye on chasing for Goulanes, Themilanhorse would have hated conditions, and he too is seemingly destined for chases. There was a fair bit to like about Cross Kennon run however. You would think that a tilt at the Rendlesham, which he won in 2011 and was 2nd in last year, will be a target, and possibly a run in a Pertemps qualifier on the way to Haydock.
CHELTENHAM 18-Nov-12 Soft 5.5
Ground once again made it hard work today for all.
1:10 – The November Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) 2m
Captain Conan had this won a long way from home, confirming the impression that he was every inch a chaser when competing over hurdles. Winner of the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle, he disappointed in Ireland, but form behind Tap Night and Darlan was enough to see him rated 140+ and throughout the season Henderson was shouting “chaser”. Form at Sandown, and with his bold jumping, he could be one for the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase in a few weeks if stablemate Simonsig goes to Newbury.
Sire De Grugy wasn’t great early doors at his fences, but improved as race went on. He relishes flat tracks, and even though this was a fair performance, you’d expect better back at Kempton and is still a novice to be excited by.
Third Intention jumped big early and Joe Tizzard made a point at trying to hold him for a late run, but a mistake at 2nd last cost any chance of second place. He will be better seen off a quicker pace, and he could be a novice to have onside for the Handicaps in March/April if not too high in the weights.
1:45 – Intermediate Handicap Hurdle 2m 5f
Race became a one horse race early doors with Double Ross and Sam Twiston Davies not seeing another rival. Keen earlier in his career he settled well here and he certainly relished these conditions; Form on Soft or worse: 313232, form includes Challow Hurdle, a Supreme Novices’ Trial and 3rd in the Swinton. Conditions should be in his favour this weekend at Haydock, so be interesting to see if he is a runner.
This was only Close House’s 4th run over timber and it left the impression that there’s a good race in him this season. This run also gives the option of stepping upto 3m as he didn’t lack for stamina late on.
San Telm enjoyed the ease in the ground, and enhanced the form of his Haydock win. Held up out the back, he made a move possibly too early to get second, but had no chance with the winner from position. Yesyoucan is still entered at Haydock this weekend, and be interesting to see how he gets on.
2:50 – Racing Post Hurdle (Grade 3 Handicap) 2m 110y
A fair renewal of the race formerly known as the Greatwood, but not a piece of form I’m overly sold on at first glance.
Olofi finally got his win under the belt, well deserved after so many near misses, 5th here in 2010, 2nd in 2011 he also finished 5th in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury last year, so the fondness for 2m handicaps is there, as is the ground preference having won here in Dec 09 in soft ground. Backers had a moments worry when Danny Cook on Bothy shut the door on him coming into the straight, but had more than enough in reserve to hold off challenges up the hill. You would think he’d have been cherry ripe for this, whereas others may have had other targets on their mind.
Cash And Go previously with Edward O’Grady had Grade 1 form on Heavy ground in Ireland, and he put up a fair effort on stable debut here. He didn’t convince in his hurdling at times, but stuck on well enough for a clear second, off 141 his mark is fair yet campaign is more Handicap Hurdles than Champion Hurdle trials.
Cause Of Causes once again showed liking of a 2m Handicap Hurdle, 2nd in Galway Hurdle, he was running here under a penalty after his win at Fairyhouse. Being owned by Timeform Betfair Racing Club, you would think that the Ladbroke and Betfair Hurdle are targets for this son of Dynaformer.
Bothy ran his usual honest race in 4th, and is another who is suited to these type of races and is credit to connections. Glam Gerry got going all too late, similar to his run at the Festival over fences, there is a big one in him, but it’s likely everything will have to fall right for him.
3:25 – The Hyde Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 5f
For me this was one of the best performances’ of the weekend, Coneygree running away with a very hot looking Grade 2 Novices’ Hurdle. He created a favourable impression at Uttoxeter on hurdling bow, enhanced his reputation today. His Newbury run aside, where keen early, wide, and allowed to coast home in final few furlongs, then he has a very exciting profile. All wins have come with ease in the ground, he has shown ability to sit off the pace or make it and if making he can power away from them. This was a quality renewal too, we had Bondage come into this race on a back of a convincing handicap win rated 145, According To Trev rated 143 following game win at Showcase Meet, where as in previous years race has been littered with 120-130 types. Question has to be what next, half brother Carruthers ran in the Albert Bartlett as a Novice and be interesting to see if they come back here in December for the 3 mile race. Not many are on my Festival shortlist, but he most definitely is and the unfashionable connections mean we are looking at a very fair price.
Others in behind deserve a mention too. I Shot The Sheriff once again showed his efficiency over hurdles, but detested the ground. Awaywiththegreys didn’t really travel today as such was slightly disappointing given conditions should have suited. Creepy was the eyecatcher though, making good move from top of the hill, he fiddled the second last and lost all chance after not really impressing with his jumping throughout. Connections had Champion Court in this race last year and even though not of that class just yet, he’s one to have on side when he reappears in the New Year.
Post link and copy below to help keep posts on all one thread: http://wp.me/p1T1dH-3u
Cheltenham Open Meeting Debrief
CHELTENHAM OPEN MEETING DEBRIEF
CHELTENHAM 16-Nov-12 C&H: Good to Soft (Good in places) C&H: 6.9
1:15 – Novices’ Chase 2m 4f 110y
High quality Novices’ Chase, but Dynaste won this fairly emphatically. Jumping well for Tom Scudamore, he came to challenge coming into the straight, and sealed the win with a good jump at the last. Not devoid of pace, they didn’t go a searching clip here, I wouldn’t be afraid to stick at this trip for now. Connections are looking at same route as Grands Crus; Newbury and Feltham, but does he have the stamina for the RSA and with Our Father running well later on the card, will Pipe want to be double handed. Still, for the time being he showed more than enough to suggest he should be prominent in Ante Post markets for both Jewson and RSA.
Not sold on Fingal Bay’s at all, he didn’t impress me at Chepstow, not sailing over fences as opposed to Dynaste, he idled badly at Chepstow and for now I doubt we’ll ever see the horse that beat Simonsig at Sandown. Injury meant he missed Cheltenham last year, but before that he had a tough campaign early door, Persian War, Open Meet, Sandown and Challow, the last two were on desperate ground. One to swerve for the time being.
Unioniste put up a fair performance for a 4yo here in third, half bro to My Will 3m assignment looks on the cards.
Carlito Brigante was still there coming into the straight, but gave way. Rated 140, he’s bound to be back here in March for either the Novices’ H’Cap Chase or the Bryne Plate.
1:50 – Handicap Chase 2m
Not blown away by any of the first 3 home; Shooters Wood a former Hunter Chaser, application of tongue tie, 2m trips have seen form figures of 2221, now rated 132 will find it tough. Wetak improved for his run at Ascot, he has won both his chase starts in France over 2m2f yet relatively disappointed over further, so could see him return for the Jenny Mould Memorial Chase in December. Silver Roque continued his rich vein of form, and connections should be seeking to take advantage of a lenient hurdle mark of 104.
Astracad has been dropped 1lb for this run, and no doubt he too will come back for the Jenny Mould Memorial Chase next month, where he will be looking to win it off 6lb higher mark. Race will be ran over the New course, which has a long run to the 2nd last and is 110y further.
Kid Cassidy once again was in another post code for the majority of the race and as you can see from above the first 4 home were front rank throughout. Will we see him before the Grand Annual, that is the question.
This was a fair effort from Oh Crick and his jockey Joshua Newman. Joshua was only having his 6th ride here and acquitted himself well, allowing Oh Crick have daylight out wide, and jumping well enough throughout. He has been dropped to 142 for this run, and you’d think he will be able to win off that when given a slightly stiffer test either ground or trip.
2:25 – Sharp Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 110y
Farcical pace resulted in a sprint for home, which Dodging Bullets won. Ran some good races as a juvenile, 2nd in the Dovecote, 4th in Triumph and badly hampered at Aintree, he is one of the early markers when it comes to the Supreme Novice and that is the ultimate target, however it wouldn’t surprise me that even off levels couple behind him turn form round in March.
River Maigue won the Ayr bumper that Nicky Henderson usually sends a good one too, however on debut last year he was keen and here too he was a little keen. Hurdled well in the main, done for toe slightly coming into the straight (p2p winner where Dodging Bullets a mile winner on flat) but he will win soon enough.
Knocked sideways when saw the mark handicapper has given Court Minstrel, 131. He was held up off pace at Aintree in bumper, held up off pace on hurdles debut here in October and you could see from the off he was beat, but to his credit he ran a very sound race. Pulled a bit at times, he came into the straight with chances but jumped slightly left at last, bumping into Magic Spear 10yds after the flight and in 5th place, rallied well to finish a never near 3rd. Off 131 connections must surely now look at handicap route for him. We’ve seen in recent years with Darlan and Get Me Out Of Here that the Ladbroke/Betfair (formerly Totesport) is a decent route to the Supreme. To run in the Ladbroke he needs to have competed a minimum of three times in Hurdle Races, so they could look for a race in next week or two or keep him back for a tilt at the Betfair if they choose that route.
Duke Of Navan got a wakeup call early from Tominator, keen, and very wide as they left the stands. Nicky Richards said following his win at Newcastle they’d look for a nice little race with him, this was a nice little race indeed and the strength of it could point to the regard he is held in, or a sighter for what Nicky Richards has at home, Eduard.
Tominator didn’t jump well on debut, and was slow at times here. Northumberland Plate winner, a step up in trip must be on the horizon.
CHELTENHAM 17-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in places) 5.8
Ground was the softest it had been for some years, January 2010 matched it, slight worse in January 2009 – In short, tough work.
12:45 – Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 110y
Far West enhanced the favourable impression of Chepstow here and now takes his place at the head of the Triumph betting. Nicholls had schooled him extensively prior to his Chepstow run, and his jumping again was slick. Has a bit of knee action going on, so you’d worry about quicker ground, especially given the Triumph is on the Friday, but this ground got Heavy fairly quickly after only 6mm of rain, so could we be looking at a Soft Ground Festival?
Vasco Du Ronceray came into this race on the back of a facile win at Hereford, and hindered his chances by being keen early. Coming into the straight Barry Geraghty looked fairly comfortable, touching a low of 1.33 in running, but after the last he was put in his place fairly readily.
1:15 – Novices’ Chase 3m110y
Can’t help but be impressed by Our Father who turned this sound looking Novices’ Chase into a bit of a procession. Always been well regarded by connections, he is now 3 from 3 on seasonal debut, so there is a worry that he is best fresh but I think there has been excuses for below par runs. If reviewing his Ascot win last year, he looked very green still when hitting the front, travelling like the best horse throughout the race, similarly when beat at Chepstow when 4/9 fav, and at Newbury as a novice. Pertemps would have been a further shock to the system, and Aintree he didn’t run well at all. Another summer on his back, he comes back here bigger and better, and you would hope he’d carry his form through the season this year. Sire Collonges again put up a bold jumping display, he was giving 8lbs to Our Father, and in time this form will look a bit better than it does currently. Disappointed by Masters Hill here however Joe Tizzard made a point to the stewards that he was never travelling and as per review of his Chepstow run was unsure if he was the sort to catch fresh, still, I expect him to bounce back.
1:55 – Handicap Chase (Grade 3) 3m 3f 110y
Ding dong battle up the run in between two improving horses in Monbeg Dude and Bradley. Monbeg Dude unseated his rider here back in October when chance was not gone and if you look beyond the run at Newbury in March his form looks solid; Good 3rd to Glens Boy, a winner over 3miles at Lingfield and a point to point winner on easy ground at 5 so off his revised mark he could pop up in races of this nature/regional nationals before a tilt at the Welsh National next year. Bradley confirmed the promise shown back here in October when finishing behind Balthazar King, and comments then still apply now, still relatively lightly raced, and will run race when conditions suit, easy ground 3m+.
There was a lot to like about Viking Blond’s performance. Fought off numerous contenders for the lead, and didn’t buckle till late. Pulled up in last year’s Welsh National, he is 5lbs lower this time around and is worthy of another chance there. Any Currency hung late on, all wins have come on RH tracks, but connections seem to want to go for Beecher Chase rather than London National. Problema Tic ran well for a long way on ground he’d have hated, earlier in the season races like Charlie Hall, Hennessy and United House Gold Cup was mentioned, so the 2lb drop to 142 won’t go amiss when conditions favour him. Chicago Grey hit the 4th last hard, he is no forlorn hope off his mark, and Carruthers is now 2lbs below his Hennessy winning mark, if they can find some good ground for the latter he could be interesting.
14:35 – Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase (Grade 3 Handicap) 2m 4f 110y
Breathtaking performance by Al Ferof off 11-8 and it’s no surprise he is now generally 2nd Fav for the King George, but what happened last year? After reviewing this race a few times I think his worst jumps were at the last two fences, and he wandered late on too. No doubt many will think he was feeling the weight and conditions taking the toll on him, but I think he is a bit of a thinker. His form in double figure fields now reads F13112F111, single figure fields 3111343, the two falls were on debut in p2p, and when 3 lengths clear 2 from home here in Dec 10. His final 3 runs last year where in single figure fields, at Ascot, wide and didn’t travel, Arkle led at the 9th then duly banked the 10th, and Aintree wilted after making it. Be interesting to see the number of runners in this year’s King George, and if a small field, whether Ruby will try bury him out the rear early doors.
Walkon was thrown in off his mark of 143 given the form of Exeter run and that the ground had come into his favour. Raised only 5lbs to 148 be interesting to see if he can hold his form back here in December and could be a fair price if people desert him due to it being his second start.
Nadiya De La Vega ran a very fine race to finish 3rd to back up her good win here in October.
Of those beaten, Poquelin chance was gone from fall of flag, held up, on ground softer than ideal, 3lb drop to 160. Ground on quicker side in December, then he’d be high on the shortlist as the equivalent race is sponsored by Stewart Family and Poquelin’s form on New Course is superior to that of the Old Course. Grands Crus and Hunt Ball were the main disappointments of the race. Grands Crus didn’t travel with his usual zest, yet every possibility he was feeling the ground as he hasn’t convinced on easy ground, but connections are also looking at breathing op. Hunt Ball got beat off 102 on Heavy ground last year, and he too may have been inconvenienced by conditions, he will likely strip fitter for the run too and I’d look at a Graduation Chase to get him back on straight and narrow, or maybe a tilt at the Peterborough Chase and pit himself against Cue Card.
3:05 – Handicap Hurdle (Listed) 3m 1f 110y
Not sold on the form of this race. Lovcen is too high in the weights, they have an eye on chasing for Goulanes, Themilanhorse would have hated conditions, and he too is seemingly destined for chases. There was a fair bit to like about Cross Kennon run however. You would think that a tilt at the Rendlesham, which he won in 2011 and was 2nd in last year, will be a target, and possibly a run in a Pertemps qualifier on the way to Haydock.
CHELTENHAM 18-Nov-12 Soft 5.5
Ground once again made it hard work today for all.
1:10 – The November Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) 2m
Captain Conan had this won a long way from home, confirming the impression that he was every inch a chaser when competing over hurdles. Winner of the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle, he disappointed in Ireland, but form behind Tap Night and Darlan was enough to see him rated 140+ and throughout the season Henderson was shouting “chaser”. Form at Sandown, and with his bold jumping, he could be one for the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase in a few weeks if stablemate Simonsig goes to Newbury.
Sire De Grugy wasn’t great early doors at his fences, but improved as race went on. He relishes flat tracks, and even though this was a fair performance, you’d expect better back at Kempton and is still a novice to be excited by.
Third Intention jumped big early and Joe Tizzard made a point at trying to hold him for a late run, but a mistake at 2nd last cost any chance of second place. He will be better seen off a quicker pace, and he could be a novice to have onside for the Handicaps in March/April if not too high in the weights.
1:45 – Intermediate Handicap Hurdle 2m 5f
Race became a one horse race early doors with Double Ross and Sam Twiston Davies not seeing another rival. Keen earlier in his career he settled well here and he certainly relished these conditions; Form on Soft or worse: 313232, form includes Challow Hurdle, a Supreme Novices’ Trial and 3rd in the Swinton. Conditions should be in his favour this weekend at Haydock, so be interesting to see if he is a runner.
This was only Close House’s 4th run over timber and it left the impression that there’s a good race in him this season. This run also gives the option of stepping upto 3m as he didn’t lack for stamina late on.
San Telm enjoyed the ease in the ground, and enhanced the form of his Haydock win. Held up out the back, he made a move possibly too early to get second, but had no chance with the winner from position. Yesyoucan is still entered at Haydock this weekend, and be interesting to see how he gets on.
2:50 – Racing Post Hurdle (Grade 3 Handicap) 2m 110y
A fair renewal of the race formerly known as the Greatwood, but not a piece of form I’m overly sold on at first glance.
Olofi finally got his win under the belt, well deserved after so many near misses, 5th here in 2010, 2nd in 2011 he also finished 5th in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury last year, so the fondness for 2m handicaps is there, as is the ground preference having won here in Dec 09 in soft ground. Backers had a moments worry when Danny Cook on Bothy shut the door on him coming into the straight, but had more than enough in reserve to hold off challenges up the hill. You would think he’d have been cherry ripe for this, whereas others may have had other targets on their mind.
Cash And Go previously with Edward O’Grady had Grade 1 form on Heavy ground in Ireland, and he put up a fair effort on stable debut here. He didn’t convince in his hurdling at times, but stuck on well enough for a clear second, off 141 his mark is fair yet campaign is more Handicap Hurdles than Champion Hurdle trials.
Cause Of Causes once again showed liking of a 2m Handicap Hurdle, 2nd in Galway Hurdle, he was running here under a penalty after his win at Fairyhouse. Being owned by Timeform Betfair Racing Club, you would think that the Ladbroke and Betfair Hurdle are targets for this son of Dynaformer.
Bothy ran his usual honest race in 4th, and is another who is suited to these type of races and is credit to connections. Glam Gerry got going all too late, similar to his run at the Festival over fences, there is a big one in him, but it’s likely everything will have to fall right for him.
3:25 – The Hyde Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 5f
For me this was one of the best performances’ of the weekend, Coneygree running away with a very hot looking Grade 2 Novices’ Hurdle. He created a favourable impression at Uttoxeter on hurdling bow, enhanced his reputation today. His Newbury run aside, where keen early, wide, and allowed to coast home in final few furlongs, then he has a very exciting profile. All wins have come with ease in the ground, he has shown ability to sit off the pace or make it and if making he can power away from them. This was a quality renewal too, we had Bondage come into this race on a back of a convincing handicap win rated 145, According To Trev rated 143 following game win at Showcase Meet, where as in previous years race has been littered with 120-130 types. Question has to be what next, half brother Carruthers ran in the Albert Bartlett as a Novice and be interesting to see if they come back here in December for the 3 mile race. Not many are on my Festival shortlist, but he most definitely is and the unfashionable connections mean we are looking at a very fair price.
Others in behind deserve a mention too. I Shot The Sheriff once again showed his efficiency over hurdles, but detested the ground. Awaywiththegreys didn’t really travel today as such was slightly disappointing given conditions should have suited. Creepy was the eyecatcher though, making good move from top of the hill, he fiddled the second last and lost all chance after not really impressing with his jumping throughout. Connections had Champion Court in this race last year and even though not of that class just yet, he’s one to have on side when he reappears in the New Year.
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http://racingtictacs.wordpress.com/2012/11/29/racing-debrief-week-ending-251112/
Racing Debrief – Week Ending 25/11/12
ASCOT 23-Nov-12 Soft C: 6.4 H: 6.7
12:55 ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle 2m 3f 110y
Many Clouds got on top late on, and sounded as though he had a hard race going by the post-race quotes “He’s just a bit wobbly now” but I was interested in a couple of these behind him.
Barney Cool was very green when he won his bumper on debut, I think he is still green. He cruised into the race last time out at Kempton, but went down in a driving finish, here he travelled fairly comfortably until approaching the home bend where he didn’t seem to handle it well and from then on in his chance was gone. Described as a big baby in stable tours, even though he’s had a few runs he’snot one to give up on just yet.
The Potting Shed caught the eye when running behind Atlantic Roller at Exeter, and given the form the yard is in currently, this was another eye catching run. Well off the pace throughout, he made late gains and no doubt is destined for handicaps over further.
HAYDOCK 23-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in Places) 5.9
1:55 Novices’ Chase 2m 6f
I thought that Poungach was given a very easy time of it in the Rising Star Novices’, however following this run I think it’s a case of what he wants to put in rather than what the jockey can get out of him. Today, sporting first time cheekpieces, he was slow and deliberate at the first two fences, but jumping improved as the race wore on. Cajoled throughout the second circuit by Ruby, he looked to have the measure of Super Duty up the straight, and was pulling away at the end. He was beating good sorts here, 135+ rated hurdlers; you’d also think that better ground would suit him too so be very interesting to see where he goes next. Connections said they won’t aim him too high, with another novice likely in the next month, Lingfield on the 15th “RSA Novices’ Steeple Chase Trial” could be one for him if they decide against a tilt at the Feltham.
Super Duty has found one too good a few times now, but he has had excuses. Simonsig start over timber and soft ground over fences. Donald McCain is looking forward to better ground, and letting him bowl along in front. With the recent weather it’s going to be a long time before we see Good ground, but he will find a race soon enough.
Couple of disappointments in the race; Knock A Hand should have loved the ground, but never travelled and need to be encouraged for the majority of the race. Gullinbursti scoped dirty post-race, and given the poor form of the Lavelle yard compared to previous seasons (2008: Oct 32% Nov 15%, 2009: Oct 29% Nov 19%, 2010: Oct 23% Nov 40%, 2011: Oct 13% Nov 33%) her stats of 4% SR in Oct and 13% in Nov could point to a problem at the yard.
2:30 The Newton Novices’ Hurdle (Listed) 2m
Impressive performance from Clondaw Kaempfer here, and connections have some questions to answer now with regards to stepping him up in trip, or leaving him over two miles. I liked his move coming into the straight, able to get himself out of a pocket fairly quickly to bag the rail three out. Hung after the last, he had to be driven out to account for a fair rival in Lienosus. Next run will be over Christmas time, and be interesting to see if they step him back up in trip, or keep him over two. Kennel Gate Novices’ Hurdle could be one for him Friday 21st December, otherwise they are looking at Kempton. With Peddlers Cross Donald kept him over the minimum trip, so even if running over two miles I wouldn’t take it as a pointer to the Supreme in March.
Lienosus was outpaced in the straight but rallied well and enhanced the form of the Persian War Novices’ where he ran a promising third to Wonderful Charm and Ballybough Pat. Step up in trip looks likely, and be interesting to see where the two in front of him at Chepstwo go next.
Landscape was there three out, but got put in his place fairly comfortably. I can’t imagine the sharp hurdles track suiting him, and even though the ground would have favoured him, it wasn’t enough to level the playing field against better rivals. Now rated 124, he should find himself easier contest in handicaps.
3:05 ‘Fixed Brush’ ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle 2m 4f
Many Clouds had shown the Aintree form in good light earlier in the day, and Gevrey Chambertin was a very game winner of this Fixed Brush Hurdle race. He appreciated the step up in trip and got the better of long duel in the shadows of the post. However the form of the runner up brings me back to Coneygree and Cheltenham.
Corrin Wood was a 20l second to Coneygree at Uttoxeter, further 18l behind that day in third was Explained who won an EBF Qualifier at Folkestone this week, so it’s safe to say that not only does Cheltenham form look fair, but Uttoxeter does too.
Fourjacks and Haydock wouldn’t have been a combination I’d think of being suited and so it proved here, a staying chaser in the making he’s got the size for a fence. Sixty Something would have hated this ground, and off 124 is still over interest in handicaps.
ASCOT 24-Nov-12 Heavy C: 6.3 H: 6.9
12:35 Novices’ Hurdle 2m 6f
Easter Day looked to have a fair bit up his sleeve when winning here. Travelling well through his race, McCoy was going after Dursey Sound coming into the straight, whereas Daryl Jacob allowed Easter Day to take him into the race and only need to be driven out close to the line. His win at Fontwell is working out, with Millarow coming out and winning readily over fences since. Challow Hurdle was mentioned as his next target.
Ubak was a fair third behind two speedsters in My Tent Or Yours and Tarquin Du Seuil, and again he ran a sound race finishing fourth here. He’s related to some fair types in Rebel Fitz and Otage de Brion, so the mark of 123 will not be insurmountable.
2:10 Amlin 1965 Chase (Grade 2) 2m 3f
I’m finding it difficult to get enthused by Captain Chris’ performance here. For Non Stop didn’t travel on this easier ground, nor did he jump. Ghizao was giving Captain Chris 6lbs, so was 18lbs wrong at the weights, and Finians Rainbow detested the easy ground. As such it leaves with questions about what next.
I hope that For Non Stop does still go for the King George, he’s likely to find better ground, he’s likely to find a stronger gallop, and he’ll be racing off levels. You could see a long way out Finians Rainbow wasn’t enjoying it, and his last jump wasn’t a pretty one. You have to hope the actions of Nicky Henderson in keeping Finians Rainbow away from Sprinter Sacre, that he’s not taken him out of his comfort zone, and potentially wrecked his season as early as November. King George supposedly the next target…answers on a postcode.
2:45 The Ascot Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 3f 110y
You can’t help but be impressed by Oscar Whisky’s performance here, confirming he’s the best 2m 4f hurdler around. Travelling easily through the mud, he had this field accounted for a long way from home. I expect this years campaign to mirror last years, Relkeel and New Years’ Day meet at Cheltenham, followed by Welsh Champion early Feb, and if missing the Festival then possibly the National Spirit at Fontwell. If a soft Festival you’d have to give him every chance in the Champion Hurdle, so be worth following noting how Cheltenham ground is through the season.
Raya Star ran a fine race here, confirming his maturity in that he no longer needs a searching gallop, nor does he pull anymore. Connections were thinking of Chasing this season after Ascot, so be interesting to see if that is still on the radar, if not he wouldn’t be without a chance in the Ladbroke off top weight, and would see Balder Succes run off a handy weight. Relkeel was mentioned in this week’s Weekender, but you wouldn’t want to be racing against Oscar Whisky again so maybe a tilt at the Bula if handicaps are no longer an option.
3:20 Handicap Chase 2m 1f
King George is the early season target Champion Court, and no doubt this fitted into his schedule, a nice pot along the way, but given his success last season over 2m4f, I’m surprise that connections didn’t aim him at something like the following; £55k Peterborough Chase, £25k Graduation Chase back here on 22nd or £100k Cheltenham Handicap at the International Meeting. Martin Keighley isn’t the first, nor will he be the last, to try and make a stayer out of a 2m4f horse.
HAYDOCK 24-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in places) C: 5.3 H: 5.7
12:55 Handicap Hurdle 2m 4f
A number of solid performances here, starting with Double Ross, he did his best to follow up his Cheltenham win under penalty here and the mistake at the last cost him dearly, as whatever was left in the tank went there. A fine effort, course like this suits front runners, so he should be back here in future. Again this shows how dangerous he is; now he’s settled in his races, if given an easy lead.
Yesyoucan was able to capitalise on that mistake to land the spoils. The form of his run here behind San Telm had got a boost when he ran 4th to Double Ross at Cheltenham, and with conditions in his favour here today he was a game winner. Positioned well throughout by Danny Cook, his best SR are at Sedgefield, Musselburgh, Huntingdon and Haydock, all sharp tracks, so points to him being able to judge pace of the race fairly well.
Black Thunder looked a non-stayer for me at Kempton, and this slight drop in trip and easy track suited him. I think he could be one for the Swinton later in the year as he would certainly appreciate a strongly run two mile race.
2:30 ‘Fixed Brush’ Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) 3m
A race that has been worth following in recent years with Grands Crus and Dynaste previous victors, and there was a lot to like about Trustan Times’ performance here off top weight. Held up early, Dougie Costello ensured he was up there as they left the back straight and had it in sewn up after the last. Already a winner over fences, which would have helped over these obstacles, he left his poor run at Perth behind him on seasonal debut, and happy to say he bounced following his run at Aintree. Be interesting now to see if connections stick to hurdles, or try their hand again at fences.
How Dominic Elsworth wasn’t questioned about Holywell’s ride at Aintree I’ll never know. Detached out the back, headway in back straight, given a tap and improved position, deliberate at every hurdle in the home straight under tender handling to finish a never near 2 nd to the front runner…all this and he weighed in 2lb overweight. It must have been the cheekpieces, as today he was prominent throughout and bar the game winner had everything beat. He’s one that is made for staying hurdle/chases so one to still have onside.
Sunnyhillboy outpaced after leaving the back straight, he ran well here and is ticking over nicely for the Festivals, and Katkeau ran a race of huge promise. Jockey tweaked his knee when blundering 3 out, so was unable to ride out for a place, but in doing so also ensured he remains off 124, and he’s bound to win one off that mark.
3:05 Registered As The Lancashire Chase (Grade 1) 3m
I am of the opinion that Long Run was further forward this year than last, and this time Sam Waley Cohen was the reason behind his defeat. Above is the 2012 running, below the 2011 running.
2011, Long Run was not at peak fitness for this race, he was facing Kauto who had questions to answer, and following his Gold Cup win, which flattered him greatly, that was the ultimate aim once again, but this year he was the one with questions to answer, the horse answered them, jockey did not. If you look back at 2011 running you will see that SWC made a move going out for final circuit to be up with the Kauto Star for the fences in the back straight. Not the most fluent of jumpers, he was never travelling there on in, and his class got him home second in a better field that today. If SWC had employed the same tactics this time around I am of the opinion that Long Run would have won. He tanked along for the first circuit and a half, and whereas last year he went for the lead in the back straight, this year he didn’t even get within a length of Silviniaco Conti. Kauto Star was the winner last year in victory here and at Kempton, but Sam Waley Cohen was very much the loser, he lost his conviction and confidence and as a result I very much doubt we will see Long Run return to the winners enclosure in a Grade 1 chase while he continues in the saddle.
In turn, what did Silviniaco Conti beat? Not much for me. He was given an easy time of it up front, by far the better jumper in the field, and won it comfortably. He most certainly won’t get it this easy in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but with only Denman Chase the possible race between now and then he will goto the Gold Cup without a stiff test at Grade 1 level.
Racing Debrief – Week Ending 25/11/12
ASCOT 23-Nov-12 Soft C: 6.4 H: 6.7
12:55 ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle 2m 3f 110y
Many Clouds got on top late on, and sounded as though he had a hard race going by the post-race quotes “He’s just a bit wobbly now” but I was interested in a couple of these behind him.
Barney Cool was very green when he won his bumper on debut, I think he is still green. He cruised into the race last time out at Kempton, but went down in a driving finish, here he travelled fairly comfortably until approaching the home bend where he didn’t seem to handle it well and from then on in his chance was gone. Described as a big baby in stable tours, even though he’s had a few runs he’snot one to give up on just yet.
The Potting Shed caught the eye when running behind Atlantic Roller at Exeter, and given the form the yard is in currently, this was another eye catching run. Well off the pace throughout, he made late gains and no doubt is destined for handicaps over further.
HAYDOCK 23-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in Places) 5.9
1:55 Novices’ Chase 2m 6f
I thought that Poungach was given a very easy time of it in the Rising Star Novices’, however following this run I think it’s a case of what he wants to put in rather than what the jockey can get out of him. Today, sporting first time cheekpieces, he was slow and deliberate at the first two fences, but jumping improved as the race wore on. Cajoled throughout the second circuit by Ruby, he looked to have the measure of Super Duty up the straight, and was pulling away at the end. He was beating good sorts here, 135+ rated hurdlers; you’d also think that better ground would suit him too so be very interesting to see where he goes next. Connections said they won’t aim him too high, with another novice likely in the next month, Lingfield on the 15th “RSA Novices’ Steeple Chase Trial” could be one for him if they decide against a tilt at the Feltham.
Super Duty has found one too good a few times now, but he has had excuses. Simonsig start over timber and soft ground over fences. Donald McCain is looking forward to better ground, and letting him bowl along in front. With the recent weather it’s going to be a long time before we see Good ground, but he will find a race soon enough.
Couple of disappointments in the race; Knock A Hand should have loved the ground, but never travelled and need to be encouraged for the majority of the race. Gullinbursti scoped dirty post-race, and given the poor form of the Lavelle yard compared to previous seasons (2008: Oct 32% Nov 15%, 2009: Oct 29% Nov 19%, 2010: Oct 23% Nov 40%, 2011: Oct 13% Nov 33%) her stats of 4% SR in Oct and 13% in Nov could point to a problem at the yard.
2:30 The Newton Novices’ Hurdle (Listed) 2m
Impressive performance from Clondaw Kaempfer here, and connections have some questions to answer now with regards to stepping him up in trip, or leaving him over two miles. I liked his move coming into the straight, able to get himself out of a pocket fairly quickly to bag the rail three out. Hung after the last, he had to be driven out to account for a fair rival in Lienosus. Next run will be over Christmas time, and be interesting to see if they step him back up in trip, or keep him over two. Kennel Gate Novices’ Hurdle could be one for him Friday 21st December, otherwise they are looking at Kempton. With Peddlers Cross Donald kept him over the minimum trip, so even if running over two miles I wouldn’t take it as a pointer to the Supreme in March.
Lienosus was outpaced in the straight but rallied well and enhanced the form of the Persian War Novices’ where he ran a promising third to Wonderful Charm and Ballybough Pat. Step up in trip looks likely, and be interesting to see where the two in front of him at Chepstwo go next.
Landscape was there three out, but got put in his place fairly comfortably. I can’t imagine the sharp hurdles track suiting him, and even though the ground would have favoured him, it wasn’t enough to level the playing field against better rivals. Now rated 124, he should find himself easier contest in handicaps.
3:05 ‘Fixed Brush’ ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle 2m 4f
Many Clouds had shown the Aintree form in good light earlier in the day, and Gevrey Chambertin was a very game winner of this Fixed Brush Hurdle race. He appreciated the step up in trip and got the better of long duel in the shadows of the post. However the form of the runner up brings me back to Coneygree and Cheltenham.
Corrin Wood was a 20l second to Coneygree at Uttoxeter, further 18l behind that day in third was Explained who won an EBF Qualifier at Folkestone this week, so it’s safe to say that not only does Cheltenham form look fair, but Uttoxeter does too.
Fourjacks and Haydock wouldn’t have been a combination I’d think of being suited and so it proved here, a staying chaser in the making he’s got the size for a fence. Sixty Something would have hated this ground, and off 124 is still over interest in handicaps.
ASCOT 24-Nov-12 Heavy C: 6.3 H: 6.9
12:35 Novices’ Hurdle 2m 6f
Easter Day looked to have a fair bit up his sleeve when winning here. Travelling well through his race, McCoy was going after Dursey Sound coming into the straight, whereas Daryl Jacob allowed Easter Day to take him into the race and only need to be driven out close to the line. His win at Fontwell is working out, with Millarow coming out and winning readily over fences since. Challow Hurdle was mentioned as his next target.
Ubak was a fair third behind two speedsters in My Tent Or Yours and Tarquin Du Seuil, and again he ran a sound race finishing fourth here. He’s related to some fair types in Rebel Fitz and Otage de Brion, so the mark of 123 will not be insurmountable.
2:10 Amlin 1965 Chase (Grade 2) 2m 3f
I’m finding it difficult to get enthused by Captain Chris’ performance here. For Non Stop didn’t travel on this easier ground, nor did he jump. Ghizao was giving Captain Chris 6lbs, so was 18lbs wrong at the weights, and Finians Rainbow detested the easy ground. As such it leaves with questions about what next.
I hope that For Non Stop does still go for the King George, he’s likely to find better ground, he’s likely to find a stronger gallop, and he’ll be racing off levels. You could see a long way out Finians Rainbow wasn’t enjoying it, and his last jump wasn’t a pretty one. You have to hope the actions of Nicky Henderson in keeping Finians Rainbow away from Sprinter Sacre, that he’s not taken him out of his comfort zone, and potentially wrecked his season as early as November. King George supposedly the next target…answers on a postcode.
2:45 The Ascot Hurdle (Grade 2) 2m 3f 110y
You can’t help but be impressed by Oscar Whisky’s performance here, confirming he’s the best 2m 4f hurdler around. Travelling easily through the mud, he had this field accounted for a long way from home. I expect this years campaign to mirror last years, Relkeel and New Years’ Day meet at Cheltenham, followed by Welsh Champion early Feb, and if missing the Festival then possibly the National Spirit at Fontwell. If a soft Festival you’d have to give him every chance in the Champion Hurdle, so be worth following noting how Cheltenham ground is through the season.
Raya Star ran a fine race here, confirming his maturity in that he no longer needs a searching gallop, nor does he pull anymore. Connections were thinking of Chasing this season after Ascot, so be interesting to see if that is still on the radar, if not he wouldn’t be without a chance in the Ladbroke off top weight, and would see Balder Succes run off a handy weight. Relkeel was mentioned in this week’s Weekender, but you wouldn’t want to be racing against Oscar Whisky again so maybe a tilt at the Bula if handicaps are no longer an option.
3:20 Handicap Chase 2m 1f
King George is the early season target Champion Court, and no doubt this fitted into his schedule, a nice pot along the way, but given his success last season over 2m4f, I’m surprise that connections didn’t aim him at something like the following; £55k Peterborough Chase, £25k Graduation Chase back here on 22nd or £100k Cheltenham Handicap at the International Meeting. Martin Keighley isn’t the first, nor will he be the last, to try and make a stayer out of a 2m4f horse.
HAYDOCK 24-Nov-12 Soft (Heavy in places) C: 5.3 H: 5.7
12:55 Handicap Hurdle 2m 4f
A number of solid performances here, starting with Double Ross, he did his best to follow up his Cheltenham win under penalty here and the mistake at the last cost him dearly, as whatever was left in the tank went there. A fine effort, course like this suits front runners, so he should be back here in future. Again this shows how dangerous he is; now he’s settled in his races, if given an easy lead.
Yesyoucan was able to capitalise on that mistake to land the spoils. The form of his run here behind San Telm had got a boost when he ran 4th to Double Ross at Cheltenham, and with conditions in his favour here today he was a game winner. Positioned well throughout by Danny Cook, his best SR are at Sedgefield, Musselburgh, Huntingdon and Haydock, all sharp tracks, so points to him being able to judge pace of the race fairly well.
Black Thunder looked a non-stayer for me at Kempton, and this slight drop in trip and easy track suited him. I think he could be one for the Swinton later in the year as he would certainly appreciate a strongly run two mile race.
2:30 ‘Fixed Brush’ Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) 3m
A race that has been worth following in recent years with Grands Crus and Dynaste previous victors, and there was a lot to like about Trustan Times’ performance here off top weight. Held up early, Dougie Costello ensured he was up there as they left the back straight and had it in sewn up after the last. Already a winner over fences, which would have helped over these obstacles, he left his poor run at Perth behind him on seasonal debut, and happy to say he bounced following his run at Aintree. Be interesting now to see if connections stick to hurdles, or try their hand again at fences.
How Dominic Elsworth wasn’t questioned about Holywell’s ride at Aintree I’ll never know. Detached out the back, headway in back straight, given a tap and improved position, deliberate at every hurdle in the home straight under tender handling to finish a never near 2 nd to the front runner…all this and he weighed in 2lb overweight. It must have been the cheekpieces, as today he was prominent throughout and bar the game winner had everything beat. He’s one that is made for staying hurdle/chases so one to still have onside.
Sunnyhillboy outpaced after leaving the back straight, he ran well here and is ticking over nicely for the Festivals, and Katkeau ran a race of huge promise. Jockey tweaked his knee when blundering 3 out, so was unable to ride out for a place, but in doing so also ensured he remains off 124, and he’s bound to win one off that mark.
3:05 Registered As The Lancashire Chase (Grade 1) 3m
I am of the opinion that Long Run was further forward this year than last, and this time Sam Waley Cohen was the reason behind his defeat. Above is the 2012 running, below the 2011 running.
2011, Long Run was not at peak fitness for this race, he was facing Kauto who had questions to answer, and following his Gold Cup win, which flattered him greatly, that was the ultimate aim once again, but this year he was the one with questions to answer, the horse answered them, jockey did not. If you look back at 2011 running you will see that SWC made a move going out for final circuit to be up with the Kauto Star for the fences in the back straight. Not the most fluent of jumpers, he was never travelling there on in, and his class got him home second in a better field that today. If SWC had employed the same tactics this time around I am of the opinion that Long Run would have won. He tanked along for the first circuit and a half, and whereas last year he went for the lead in the back straight, this year he didn’t even get within a length of Silviniaco Conti. Kauto Star was the winner last year in victory here and at Kempton, but Sam Waley Cohen was very much the loser, he lost his conviction and confidence and as a result I very much doubt we will see Long Run return to the winners enclosure in a Grade 1 chase while he continues in the saddle.
In turn, what did Silviniaco Conti beat? Not much for me. He was given an easy time of it up front, by far the better jumper in the field, and won it comfortably. He most certainly won’t get it this easy in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but with only Denman Chase the possible race between now and then he will goto the Gold Cup without a stiff test at Grade 1 level.
davidjohnson
At the Start
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2007
- Messages
- 3,434
Good stuff Dan. Have you seen what Steve Dennis says in today's post about your sort!
edgt
Senior Jockey
Strong sentiments re SWC Dan.It may be unwise to underestimate Silviniaco and The Giant Bolster just yet.
That said, I enjoy your analysis.Keep it up.
That said, I enjoy your analysis.Keep it up.
swedish chef
At the Start
Welcome Dan - Always a good read - cheers
No, but I can hazard a guess in that it makes no difference to his chance etc?
davidjohnson
At the Start
- Joined
- Jun 29, 2007
- Messages
- 3,434
Was a poor article, suggesting those that criticise Waley-Cohen make themselves look silly. Imo, it's when feature writers try to make statements regarding form that people look silly.
SC still has questions to answer re Cheltenham, and I think he's been well placed by connections to win fairly uncompetitive heats, Betfair Chase included.
TGB will improve for Cheltenham, but I just can't have him as a Gold Cup contender this year.
You'd have to to think that connections missing some fairly easy pickings to go direct to the Gold Cup would have a somewhat different view?
This weeks blog: http://racingtictacs.wordpress.com/2012/12/06/newbury-hennessy-meeting-debrief/
29-Nov-12 C: Soft (Good to Soft in places) H: Soft C: 5.8 H: 4.8
12:25 Novices’ Hurdle 2m 110y
They went a dawdle early on in this race, no doubt unsure how the ground would ride, and throughout the weekend jockeys always thought the Hurdles track was more testing.
A return to two miles saw Meganisi return to the winning enclosure after two failed attempts over 2m4f at Fontwell and Chepstow. However, after reviewing comments made by Rebecca Curtis in the run up to this race, there’s every reason to think there’s still more to come. At The Races Stable Tour Rebecca stated the following:
“Good horse that has had a couple of problems but he just didn’t stay at Chepstow last time so we’ll drop him back to two miles. He’s still ok for novices which gives good opportunities. We cut him and he went very weak on us but is coming back now and will get better. Likes soft ground.”
Think it goes without saying that a Cesarewitch winner will appreciate a stiffer test than two miles around Newbury, and presumably 2m4f+ races are what Nicholls will be aiming Aaim To Prosper at.
Ironic was stillon the bridle after the third last and his mistake at the second last cost him a chance of a clear third. Handicapper has dropped him 7lbs for that run, which could look very hasty after his next run.
1:30 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle 2m 5f
Form which on first glance may not be worth getting excited about, but African Gold put in a fair display of hurdling and stayed on gamely to win going away. He finished second to Ballybough Pat on hurdling debut early October, but following that run he has been wearing a tongue tie, and connections seem to be looking forward to see him run on better ground with the Albert Bartlett being a possible target. The International Meet may come a bit too soon for him, but if not there is the Bristol Novices’ Hurdle on the Saturday of the meet which would be a good test for him.
Faultless Feelings’ trainer was hopeful of a good run and he was 18 lengths clear of the third horse, Regal Approach. Question is will he step up on this run – he won his p2p on debut, his best run for Hobbs was on seasonal debut. Rated 117, does leave 0-120 races open to him, and there is one at Southwell on 3rd January over 2m4f110y, or alternatively Keighley has had some success at Wetherby and there’s a 0-130 race over 2m6f on Boxing Day which should suit.
2:05 The Worcester Novices’ Chase 3m (Grade 2)
Harry Topper showed some guts to get back up here. He was not overly fluent, he was ridden along leaving the back straight, again coming into the home straight, hampered slightly by Hadrian’s Approach, got up late, but was well on top at the finish. Kim Bailey was positively gushing about him post race: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/nov/29/kim-bailey-harry-topper-master-oats
“You won’t see him for a long time now,” Kim Bailey, Harry Topper’s trainer, said. “I said before the race that not since Master Oats [the 1995 Gold Cup winner] have I come across a horse who will run through a brick wall, but he will.
“I’ve always held a very high opinion of him and he’s the best horse I’ve had since Master Oats. In days gone by, you could have won two or three novice chases with him and built up his strength and his confidence, but today we’ve had to come to what for me was the best novice chase [of the season].
“The chances that we’ll be at Cheltenham [in 2013] are very limited. He’s not strong enough to gallop downhill, he’s 17 hands with a huge amount of ability. I would like to think that in 18 months’ time, you’ll see him at Cheltenham. He’s the horse of my dreams, really.”
At one stage, Harry Topper looked a most unlikely winner and he was backed at 999-1 in-running on Betfair, but he came with a strong run under Timmy Murphy to catch Benefficient a few yards from the post.
“He lost four lengths at the last just by going right-handed, but when you’ve got horses with guts, it makes up for everything. He’s tough, but he’s so immature and weak,” Bailey said.
“He’s a mad horse, he walks his box, he crib bites, he weaves, he windsucks, he does everything. It takes an hour to get him in the horsebox to go racing. He has his own way of doing things.”
Cheltenham seemingly a write off this season, something like the Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase at Ascot could suit him followed by Aintree in April.
Benefficient looked to have the race in the bag, front rank, keen slightly early, he was just caught late on. Tony Martin is looking at dropping him back to two miles over Christmas in Ireland, and you can see why. Handicapper left him here off a mark of 139 which I think is fair, and this Grade 1 winning hurdler could be one for handicaps at Cheltenham with the easy ground in Ireland likely to be at his disadvantage.
Highland Lodge stepped up on his Fakenham win here and is not one to discount so readily. Lavelle yard are hardly firing, him and others throughout the weekend suggested they could now be returning to some semblance of form. He jumped well in the main, he will no doubt be placed to good effect over the coming months while conditions continue to be on the easy side.
Houblon Des Obeaux had everything his own way in the Rising Star Novices’ but not here today. He jumped slightly right early on, but was neat thereafter and held chances until second last when hitting it fairly hard. Allowed to find his feet, he ran on well to the line.
Hadrian’s Approach was again far from fluent at his fences, meeting a few skew-whiff, still held every chance when coming to grief at the 4th last. He has shown in all his runs that he does have a decent engine, just about getting his jumping together.
3:15 Intermediate Hurdle (Listed Handicap) (Registered As The Gerry Feilden Hurdle) 2m 110y
Lyvius won this weak renewal fairly comfortably. Given a fair toe into the race, he had the field beat a long way from home but just needed to be kept upto his work. I looked back at his Aintree run, and into the straight he was cruising, issues last year was he was very keen, and he was that day also; wide throughout, seeing a lot of daylight, looked after in the straight. Every comment uttered from Henderson/Geraghty pre and post-race re runs last year were “Baby” “Babyish”, Barry Geraghty on ATR blog:
LYVIUS showed that he’s grown into himself with a very good performance winning the Gerry Fielden which is usually a decent guide to the future. Travelled great, jumped brilliantly and was the winner everywhere. He’s much more of a horse this season.
Raised to 135, no surprise he’s joint fav for The Ladbroke.
Peckhamecho had been in receipt of some shockers in recent spins over fences; at Cheltenham and Exeter going off too fast, Rebecca in here stable tour agreed (before Exeter run):
“He was just too fresh and free last time because he’d been off for quite a while before Stratford when he didn’t really have a race when he won so easily. Didn’t get home at Cheltenham. McCoy thought he jumped alright at Cheltenham which surprised me. I’d expect him to come on for Cheltenham.”
He was running here off 138, rated 133 over fences, and if they can just get him to settle he’ll definitely win off that mark. She does like Ludlow and mark does tie in nicely for a tilt at a 0-135 Novice’s Limited Handicap on the 13th December.
30-Nov-12 C: Good to Soft H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) C: 5.4 H: 4.6
2:05 Novices’ Chase (Registered As The Berkshire Novices’ Chase) (Grade 2) 2m 4f
Dynaste again impressed with his jumping, also showing speed. I’ve watched this race and his Cheltenham win a numerous of times now, and neither performance is screaming out RSA. I can understand the Feltham on the calendar, but connections already giving off negative vibes “some saying he jumps left”, so be interesting to see if he does actually turn up in that race.
Court In Motion hasn’t got the pace to give Dynaste a race over this trip, but once again was another pointer to the possible return to form of the Lavelle yard.
Valmari doesn’t have many miles on the clock over obstacles, and she had jumped well until crashing out 4 out. Be interesting to see if that has left a mark on her. Easy leads seems to be a must, but given connections are now seeking black type for her, then small field 2m4f Listed/Graded Chases should see her claim some before season is out.
2:40 Pertemps Handicap Hurdle (Series Qualifier) 3m 110y
Old favourite Fair Along, aged 10 with a change of tactics won well enough here from a solid field. Lifeless on two starts this season when prominent, Richard Johnson allowed him to creep into the race, and he looked more interested this time around. It would be interesting to see if connections try this over fences as he is now rated 13lbs lower, 135. I’d like to see him have a tilt at the Tommy Whittle, as the fences are now far easier to jump at Haydock.
Ballybough Pat and Cucumber Run come out of this race with a fair degree of credit. This was only Ballybough Pat’s 3rd run over timber and was full of promise once again. Connections seem to be looking after him this year, so I don’t expect him competing at Cheltenham. Nico de Boinville got a nice run out of Cucumber Run today, stepping up on his seasonal debut at Cheltenham. I liked the move after the last hurdle on the back straight which saw him take the shortest route around the side of the course, and in perfect position in the straight.
Couple of those in behind have been overlooked, Destroyer Deployed a notable one. He didn’t get a hit from Geraghty in the straight, slow to the second last, then hampered by American Trilogy he was given a very easy time of it coming home. Off 122, and the visor seemingly having a positive effect, he won’t find it difficult off that mark. Bakbenscher hampered twice in the race, been dropped 3lbs now, slight worry he didn’t finish off his race here however had excuses. What An Oscar was another hampered early, but in easier company he’s certainly upto winning a good 0-130 race on better ground.
3:15 Handicap Chase 2m 4f
Another good performance from Bless The Wings who is now 4 from 7 over fences, and 3 from 5 in all starts for Wayne Hutchinson. Wayne kept the ride here, even though Robert Thornton was riding here. In the right place throughout, he was arguably just about second best before The Knoxs fell at the last. We know Bless The Wings battles well, and stays well so wouldn’t have written him off totally in the run to the line. He idled late on, but was back on top in the shadows of the post and now goes to Cheltenham on New Year’s Day for Grade 3 Handicap Chase over 2m5f.
Mahogany Blaze ran a fine race here following up an Aintree effort that looks better than it does on paper. He’s now been raised to 143, so still eligible for these 0-145/0-150 races. I hope connections do not look at going back up in trip, as 2m-2m4f is his optimum, and this side of New Year there’s only a 2m race at Wetherby 0-150 that fits the profile.
3:45 ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle 2m 110y
Puffin Billy came into this race on the back of two impressive bumper wins, and he accounted for a fair field here. One doubt about Puffin Billy has to be his mental maturity. Before his win at Fontwell connections took him to the course to familiarise himself with race day experience. Here he had his head bowed low, crowd wouldn’t have been huge and I’m waiting to see how he reacts on a big Saturday meet. Sandown will be a test, not only better rivals, but also a bigger crowd. Passes that then has to be Neptune over the Supreme for me.
God Of The Kop has been on my radar since being side swiped two out in a race won by 132 rated Nataani at Worcester; here are my comments after his Chepstow run:
A lot to like about God Of The Kop’s performance here in third. I thought he was ridden with the idea of a confidence boost being priority. He jumped a little stickily at times, and niggled along too, but readily came back to them when asked. His best jump being the last, and readily put a gap between himself and the others. Be interesting to see what they do next, whether they drop back in trip with a look for a handicap mark or another hurdle run over 3m where he’d be very hard to beat in ordinary company.
Stable Tour Comment 06/11/12
GOD OF THE KOP
“Has ability but still learning his job. Will certainly stay well and needs experience.”
The entry suggested handicap mark was the aim, and the run confirmed it. I request everyone who reads this piece to review the closing stages of this race and tell me what sort of response McCoy was expecting from his whip “action” between the last two flights. Connections entered him in a 0-120 Handicap Hurdle on Monday am for Aintree before his mark was announced, Tuesday am – Handicap Mark 120.
So what’s the ultimate aim, well with Patrick Corbett in the yard I would be aiming him at the Martin Pipe Conditionals Hurdle at the Festival, and off a mark of 120 he’s got a win or two in his locker along the way.
01-Dec-12 C: Good to Soft H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) no information
1:25 Novices’ Handicap Chase (For The Fulke Walwyn Trophy) 2m 6f 110y
Rolling Aces, Handy Andy and Ballypatrick’s chase debut was at Ascot behind Hadrian’s Approach, and all three come out of today’s race with promising futures.
Rolling Aces was a p2p winner and had already shown his fondness for a trip as a Novice Hurdler, and his runs this year did too. 4th to Bondage at Cheltenham, the 2m3f trip at Ascot was “too sharp” as said Paul Nicholls following his win here, but that run was enough to see him here off top weight. Jumping well, and staying on well in the straight, he’d appreciate further still and there’s more improvement to come from him too. His one blot on formbook is when behind Lovcen last year; however connections tried him in a tongue-tie for that run, and that run only.
Handy Andy was prominent early, but on the back straight second item was closer to last than first. Rallied in the straight, he hit a couple yet stayed on well to finish a clear third. He was an expensive purchase after his p2p win in Ireland, £115k, and it’s taken him time to get back to a similar sort of form that saw him account for Our Father in March 2011. Today he was wearing tongue tie for the first time, which improved his jumping slightly, and off his 115 mark has a win or two in him at very least in 2m6f+ races. There’s a £9k 3m race at Ffos Las on 17th December or £11k Mandarin Chase over 3m2f race back here on the 29th December, won last year by Rey Nacarado. Handy Andy’s form at Newbury now reads 113.
Ballypatrick was hit by Patsy Finnegan at the first, jumped the second fairly big and from second fence in straight was in rear. Dominic Elsworth then just let him get his confidence back, and if he wasn’t behind a wall of horses coming into the straight I think he’d have finished closer. From a fair jumping family, had shown in hurdle races over an inadequate trip, he’s one to have onside in easier races.
3:10 Hennessy Gold Cup Chase (Grade 3 Handicap) 3m 2f 110y
Bobs Worth form at Left-Handed tracks now reads 111111, that includes two Grade 2s, two Grade 1s and now the Hennessy. I think plaudits have to go to Barry Geraghty for this as he gave Bobs Worth a text book ride, even if he is potentially class above. Midfield early to get a sight at the first few fences, he then brought him inside shortest route for the second half of the race, and took it up approaching the last. Henderson said he never had him right last year, and only came good just in time for RSA, which could excuse his runs at Kempton and Ascot, but they are firmly of the opinion they want to keep him LH for now, so the Argento looks like will be his prep for the Gold Cup.
In turn I’m in two minds about Ruby’s ride on Tidal Bay. If we are still to believe that he is an enigma, then it was a good ride to coax him into the race and get a good second, however I think following 12 months under Nicholls’ care, then we are seeing a more consistent animal, and waiting tactics were exaggerated here. He was always at the rear, he made a move widest of all coming down the side of the racecourse, and if the waiting tactics were due to come through horses, then why wide? He’s a talent, Grade 1 wins show that, wouldn’t surprise me to see him run well in all of the Grade 1 3m+ chases through the season.
First Lieutenant was up there throughout, he jumped well, 3rd last being the highlight, and he ran to RSA form. Be interesting to see how he fares back in Ireland against their Gold Cup hopes, but Heavy ground that side of the Irish Sea will not suit him, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him back over here in search of the better ground…if there is any.
Fruity O’Rooney deserves some plaudits for being up there until the 3rd last, he has been dropped 2lbs by the handicapper and I think it goes without saying he’ll find easier opportunities. One that did disappoint slightly was Hold On Julio, he didn’t seem to be travelling on the second circuit, didn’t jump overly well, and Thornton had to go after him early enough. Classic Chase at Warwick seems to be the plan now for him, with Grand National long term aim.
29-Nov-12 C: Soft (Good to Soft in places) H: Soft C: 5.8 H: 4.8
12:25 Novices’ Hurdle 2m 110y
They went a dawdle early on in this race, no doubt unsure how the ground would ride, and throughout the weekend jockeys always thought the Hurdles track was more testing.
A return to two miles saw Meganisi return to the winning enclosure after two failed attempts over 2m4f at Fontwell and Chepstow. However, after reviewing comments made by Rebecca Curtis in the run up to this race, there’s every reason to think there’s still more to come. At The Races Stable Tour Rebecca stated the following:
“Good horse that has had a couple of problems but he just didn’t stay at Chepstow last time so we’ll drop him back to two miles. He’s still ok for novices which gives good opportunities. We cut him and he went very weak on us but is coming back now and will get better. Likes soft ground.”
Think it goes without saying that a Cesarewitch winner will appreciate a stiffer test than two miles around Newbury, and presumably 2m4f+ races are what Nicholls will be aiming Aaim To Prosper at.
Ironic was stillon the bridle after the third last and his mistake at the second last cost him a chance of a clear third. Handicapper has dropped him 7lbs for that run, which could look very hasty after his next run.
1:30 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle 2m 5f
Form which on first glance may not be worth getting excited about, but African Gold put in a fair display of hurdling and stayed on gamely to win going away. He finished second to Ballybough Pat on hurdling debut early October, but following that run he has been wearing a tongue tie, and connections seem to be looking forward to see him run on better ground with the Albert Bartlett being a possible target. The International Meet may come a bit too soon for him, but if not there is the Bristol Novices’ Hurdle on the Saturday of the meet which would be a good test for him.
Faultless Feelings’ trainer was hopeful of a good run and he was 18 lengths clear of the third horse, Regal Approach. Question is will he step up on this run – he won his p2p on debut, his best run for Hobbs was on seasonal debut. Rated 117, does leave 0-120 races open to him, and there is one at Southwell on 3rd January over 2m4f110y, or alternatively Keighley has had some success at Wetherby and there’s a 0-130 race over 2m6f on Boxing Day which should suit.
2:05 The Worcester Novices’ Chase 3m (Grade 2)
Harry Topper showed some guts to get back up here. He was not overly fluent, he was ridden along leaving the back straight, again coming into the home straight, hampered slightly by Hadrian’s Approach, got up late, but was well on top at the finish. Kim Bailey was positively gushing about him post race: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/nov/29/kim-bailey-harry-topper-master-oats
“You won’t see him for a long time now,” Kim Bailey, Harry Topper’s trainer, said. “I said before the race that not since Master Oats [the 1995 Gold Cup winner] have I come across a horse who will run through a brick wall, but he will.
“I’ve always held a very high opinion of him and he’s the best horse I’ve had since Master Oats. In days gone by, you could have won two or three novice chases with him and built up his strength and his confidence, but today we’ve had to come to what for me was the best novice chase [of the season].
“The chances that we’ll be at Cheltenham [in 2013] are very limited. He’s not strong enough to gallop downhill, he’s 17 hands with a huge amount of ability. I would like to think that in 18 months’ time, you’ll see him at Cheltenham. He’s the horse of my dreams, really.”
At one stage, Harry Topper looked a most unlikely winner and he was backed at 999-1 in-running on Betfair, but he came with a strong run under Timmy Murphy to catch Benefficient a few yards from the post.
“He lost four lengths at the last just by going right-handed, but when you’ve got horses with guts, it makes up for everything. He’s tough, but he’s so immature and weak,” Bailey said.
“He’s a mad horse, he walks his box, he crib bites, he weaves, he windsucks, he does everything. It takes an hour to get him in the horsebox to go racing. He has his own way of doing things.”
Cheltenham seemingly a write off this season, something like the Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase at Ascot could suit him followed by Aintree in April.
Benefficient looked to have the race in the bag, front rank, keen slightly early, he was just caught late on. Tony Martin is looking at dropping him back to two miles over Christmas in Ireland, and you can see why. Handicapper left him here off a mark of 139 which I think is fair, and this Grade 1 winning hurdler could be one for handicaps at Cheltenham with the easy ground in Ireland likely to be at his disadvantage.
Highland Lodge stepped up on his Fakenham win here and is not one to discount so readily. Lavelle yard are hardly firing, him and others throughout the weekend suggested they could now be returning to some semblance of form. He jumped well in the main, he will no doubt be placed to good effect over the coming months while conditions continue to be on the easy side.
Houblon Des Obeaux had everything his own way in the Rising Star Novices’ but not here today. He jumped slightly right early on, but was neat thereafter and held chances until second last when hitting it fairly hard. Allowed to find his feet, he ran on well to the line.
Hadrian’s Approach was again far from fluent at his fences, meeting a few skew-whiff, still held every chance when coming to grief at the 4th last. He has shown in all his runs that he does have a decent engine, just about getting his jumping together.
3:15 Intermediate Hurdle (Listed Handicap) (Registered As The Gerry Feilden Hurdle) 2m 110y
Lyvius won this weak renewal fairly comfortably. Given a fair toe into the race, he had the field beat a long way from home but just needed to be kept upto his work. I looked back at his Aintree run, and into the straight he was cruising, issues last year was he was very keen, and he was that day also; wide throughout, seeing a lot of daylight, looked after in the straight. Every comment uttered from Henderson/Geraghty pre and post-race re runs last year were “Baby” “Babyish”, Barry Geraghty on ATR blog:
LYVIUS showed that he’s grown into himself with a very good performance winning the Gerry Fielden which is usually a decent guide to the future. Travelled great, jumped brilliantly and was the winner everywhere. He’s much more of a horse this season.
Raised to 135, no surprise he’s joint fav for The Ladbroke.
Peckhamecho had been in receipt of some shockers in recent spins over fences; at Cheltenham and Exeter going off too fast, Rebecca in here stable tour agreed (before Exeter run):
“He was just too fresh and free last time because he’d been off for quite a while before Stratford when he didn’t really have a race when he won so easily. Didn’t get home at Cheltenham. McCoy thought he jumped alright at Cheltenham which surprised me. I’d expect him to come on for Cheltenham.”
He was running here off 138, rated 133 over fences, and if they can just get him to settle he’ll definitely win off that mark. She does like Ludlow and mark does tie in nicely for a tilt at a 0-135 Novice’s Limited Handicap on the 13th December.
30-Nov-12 C: Good to Soft H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) C: 5.4 H: 4.6
2:05 Novices’ Chase (Registered As The Berkshire Novices’ Chase) (Grade 2) 2m 4f
Dynaste again impressed with his jumping, also showing speed. I’ve watched this race and his Cheltenham win a numerous of times now, and neither performance is screaming out RSA. I can understand the Feltham on the calendar, but connections already giving off negative vibes “some saying he jumps left”, so be interesting to see if he does actually turn up in that race.
Court In Motion hasn’t got the pace to give Dynaste a race over this trip, but once again was another pointer to the possible return to form of the Lavelle yard.
Valmari doesn’t have many miles on the clock over obstacles, and she had jumped well until crashing out 4 out. Be interesting to see if that has left a mark on her. Easy leads seems to be a must, but given connections are now seeking black type for her, then small field 2m4f Listed/Graded Chases should see her claim some before season is out.
2:40 Pertemps Handicap Hurdle (Series Qualifier) 3m 110y
Old favourite Fair Along, aged 10 with a change of tactics won well enough here from a solid field. Lifeless on two starts this season when prominent, Richard Johnson allowed him to creep into the race, and he looked more interested this time around. It would be interesting to see if connections try this over fences as he is now rated 13lbs lower, 135. I’d like to see him have a tilt at the Tommy Whittle, as the fences are now far easier to jump at Haydock.
Ballybough Pat and Cucumber Run come out of this race with a fair degree of credit. This was only Ballybough Pat’s 3rd run over timber and was full of promise once again. Connections seem to be looking after him this year, so I don’t expect him competing at Cheltenham. Nico de Boinville got a nice run out of Cucumber Run today, stepping up on his seasonal debut at Cheltenham. I liked the move after the last hurdle on the back straight which saw him take the shortest route around the side of the course, and in perfect position in the straight.
Couple of those in behind have been overlooked, Destroyer Deployed a notable one. He didn’t get a hit from Geraghty in the straight, slow to the second last, then hampered by American Trilogy he was given a very easy time of it coming home. Off 122, and the visor seemingly having a positive effect, he won’t find it difficult off that mark. Bakbenscher hampered twice in the race, been dropped 3lbs now, slight worry he didn’t finish off his race here however had excuses. What An Oscar was another hampered early, but in easier company he’s certainly upto winning a good 0-130 race on better ground.
3:15 Handicap Chase 2m 4f
Another good performance from Bless The Wings who is now 4 from 7 over fences, and 3 from 5 in all starts for Wayne Hutchinson. Wayne kept the ride here, even though Robert Thornton was riding here. In the right place throughout, he was arguably just about second best before The Knoxs fell at the last. We know Bless The Wings battles well, and stays well so wouldn’t have written him off totally in the run to the line. He idled late on, but was back on top in the shadows of the post and now goes to Cheltenham on New Year’s Day for Grade 3 Handicap Chase over 2m5f.
Mahogany Blaze ran a fine race here following up an Aintree effort that looks better than it does on paper. He’s now been raised to 143, so still eligible for these 0-145/0-150 races. I hope connections do not look at going back up in trip, as 2m-2m4f is his optimum, and this side of New Year there’s only a 2m race at Wetherby 0-150 that fits the profile.
3:45 ‘National Hunt’ Maiden Hurdle 2m 110y
Puffin Billy came into this race on the back of two impressive bumper wins, and he accounted for a fair field here. One doubt about Puffin Billy has to be his mental maturity. Before his win at Fontwell connections took him to the course to familiarise himself with race day experience. Here he had his head bowed low, crowd wouldn’t have been huge and I’m waiting to see how he reacts on a big Saturday meet. Sandown will be a test, not only better rivals, but also a bigger crowd. Passes that then has to be Neptune over the Supreme for me.
God Of The Kop has been on my radar since being side swiped two out in a race won by 132 rated Nataani at Worcester; here are my comments after his Chepstow run:
A lot to like about God Of The Kop’s performance here in third. I thought he was ridden with the idea of a confidence boost being priority. He jumped a little stickily at times, and niggled along too, but readily came back to them when asked. His best jump being the last, and readily put a gap between himself and the others. Be interesting to see what they do next, whether they drop back in trip with a look for a handicap mark or another hurdle run over 3m where he’d be very hard to beat in ordinary company.
Stable Tour Comment 06/11/12
GOD OF THE KOP
“Has ability but still learning his job. Will certainly stay well and needs experience.”
The entry suggested handicap mark was the aim, and the run confirmed it. I request everyone who reads this piece to review the closing stages of this race and tell me what sort of response McCoy was expecting from his whip “action” between the last two flights. Connections entered him in a 0-120 Handicap Hurdle on Monday am for Aintree before his mark was announced, Tuesday am – Handicap Mark 120.
So what’s the ultimate aim, well with Patrick Corbett in the yard I would be aiming him at the Martin Pipe Conditionals Hurdle at the Festival, and off a mark of 120 he’s got a win or two in his locker along the way.
01-Dec-12 C: Good to Soft H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) no information
1:25 Novices’ Handicap Chase (For The Fulke Walwyn Trophy) 2m 6f 110y
Rolling Aces, Handy Andy and Ballypatrick’s chase debut was at Ascot behind Hadrian’s Approach, and all three come out of today’s race with promising futures.
Rolling Aces was a p2p winner and had already shown his fondness for a trip as a Novice Hurdler, and his runs this year did too. 4th to Bondage at Cheltenham, the 2m3f trip at Ascot was “too sharp” as said Paul Nicholls following his win here, but that run was enough to see him here off top weight. Jumping well, and staying on well in the straight, he’d appreciate further still and there’s more improvement to come from him too. His one blot on formbook is when behind Lovcen last year; however connections tried him in a tongue-tie for that run, and that run only.
Handy Andy was prominent early, but on the back straight second item was closer to last than first. Rallied in the straight, he hit a couple yet stayed on well to finish a clear third. He was an expensive purchase after his p2p win in Ireland, £115k, and it’s taken him time to get back to a similar sort of form that saw him account for Our Father in March 2011. Today he was wearing tongue tie for the first time, which improved his jumping slightly, and off his 115 mark has a win or two in him at very least in 2m6f+ races. There’s a £9k 3m race at Ffos Las on 17th December or £11k Mandarin Chase over 3m2f race back here on the 29th December, won last year by Rey Nacarado. Handy Andy’s form at Newbury now reads 113.
Ballypatrick was hit by Patsy Finnegan at the first, jumped the second fairly big and from second fence in straight was in rear. Dominic Elsworth then just let him get his confidence back, and if he wasn’t behind a wall of horses coming into the straight I think he’d have finished closer. From a fair jumping family, had shown in hurdle races over an inadequate trip, he’s one to have onside in easier races.
3:10 Hennessy Gold Cup Chase (Grade 3 Handicap) 3m 2f 110y
Bobs Worth form at Left-Handed tracks now reads 111111, that includes two Grade 2s, two Grade 1s and now the Hennessy. I think plaudits have to go to Barry Geraghty for this as he gave Bobs Worth a text book ride, even if he is potentially class above. Midfield early to get a sight at the first few fences, he then brought him inside shortest route for the second half of the race, and took it up approaching the last. Henderson said he never had him right last year, and only came good just in time for RSA, which could excuse his runs at Kempton and Ascot, but they are firmly of the opinion they want to keep him LH for now, so the Argento looks like will be his prep for the Gold Cup.
In turn I’m in two minds about Ruby’s ride on Tidal Bay. If we are still to believe that he is an enigma, then it was a good ride to coax him into the race and get a good second, however I think following 12 months under Nicholls’ care, then we are seeing a more consistent animal, and waiting tactics were exaggerated here. He was always at the rear, he made a move widest of all coming down the side of the racecourse, and if the waiting tactics were due to come through horses, then why wide? He’s a talent, Grade 1 wins show that, wouldn’t surprise me to see him run well in all of the Grade 1 3m+ chases through the season.
First Lieutenant was up there throughout, he jumped well, 3rd last being the highlight, and he ran to RSA form. Be interesting to see how he fares back in Ireland against their Gold Cup hopes, but Heavy ground that side of the Irish Sea will not suit him, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him back over here in search of the better ground…if there is any.
Fruity O’Rooney deserves some plaudits for being up there until the 3rd last, he has been dropped 2lbs by the handicapper and I think it goes without saying he’ll find easier opportunities. One that did disappoint slightly was Hold On Julio, he didn’t seem to be travelling on the second circuit, didn’t jump overly well, and Thornton had to go after him early enough. Classic Chase at Warwick seems to be the plan now for him, with Grand National long term aim.