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Racing blog.

Interesting stuff. I had a small bet on Havingotascoobydo myself on Saturday and was pleased with how he jumped and travelled for the most part. That horse has a nice race in him off a late 130s mark. If he gets in the Paddy Power he'd be a bet.
 
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W/E SUNDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2012 – MIDWEEK JUMPS DEBRIEF

Midweek Racing Debrief – W/e 21st October 2012

16 Oct 2012

Huntingdon Good (Good to Soft in places) C: 7.4 H: 7.0

3:50 Beginners’ Chase (Class 3) (0-140, 4yo+) (2m4f110y) 16 fences



0-140 Novice Chase, so this was bound to be a hot heat, and with all 6 rated 130+ over hurdles or fences, then this form is bound to hold through the winter. Every quote from Charlie Longsdon mouth when Hildisvini was winning over hurdles pointed to him being a chaser in the making, and he didn’t disappoint here. He had the run of the race here, but was impressive in his jumping, and looked to have more in the locker if required; quote from Longsdon’s blog following run:

Hildisvini put in a fine round of jumping yesterday to give Noel his first win back from injury. It was great for both of them – I know was desperate to get the first winner out of the way. Hildisvini was great considering the ground was a shade on the quick side and we know he wants further.

He disappointed early on last year, however since the application of a tongue tie his form reads 1511, that 5th was at Wincanton when he was held up, other starts he has sat mid div, prominent and here leading, so I’d look at that run more favourably. 8 of his 9 runs over obstacles have come on Right Handed tracks however I think this is more coincidence than anything else, yet if not it leaves with one option on horizon for next start and that would be the Rising Novices Chase at Wincanton on 10th November.

Well Regarded took a walk in the market, 12s out to 20s on course after drifting all day. As per Cheltenham Debrief I’m looking to back Lavelle’s on the back of a run, and this run was certainly encouraging. Didn’t get a fence right in the home straight first time around he was detached with 5 to jump, but made good headway into the straight, before again fiddling a couple. This experience would have helped no end, and he should find a 0-140 or 0-130 Novice Chase well within his compass.

Wasn’t blown away by Forgotten Gold’s performance here, and when looking through his form over timber, he looks flattered off a rating of 135. With just a win at Ludlow to his name, courses, and competition of that level will likely suit him.

17th Oct 2012

Wetherby Good to Soft 7.7

1:50 Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4) (4yo+) 2m4f 10 hdles 1 omitted

A lovely performance from I Shot The Sheriff here, and was by far the best effort on the card. With Warren Greatrex last term, he was described as a bit of a lad following his win at Southwell, connections went for a noseband, and he flopped at Ascot after being keen early, and wide throughout. Here he didn’t but a foot wrong at any of his hurdles, straight as a die at each flight, he travelled well through the race, settled it in a matter of strides and rates a decent prospect. Comments from David Pipe’s website below:

I Shot The Sheriff had won a Southwell bumper for former trainer Warren Greatrex before finishing well beaten in a more competitive contest at Ascot. He had been schooling nicely at home and it was great to translate that into a victory on his first start over timber. He travelled supremely well and did not need to be asked a serious question to beat a useful rival in Irish raider Liberty’s Gift. He will have learned plenty for this experience on only his third career start and he looks to be an exciting prospect for the season ahead.

18th Oct 2012

Uttoxeter C: Soft (Heavy in places) H: Soft 5.4

Was taken by performances of two Novice Hurdlers here in the form of Un Bon P’Tit Gars (2:40) and Black Is Beautiful (3:40).

Nick Williams’ Un Bon P’Tit Gars had shown enough on debut to suggest a win was around the corner, and that came here over course and distance back here in May, grinding out victory over 100 rated rival. This time around though, he looked a more mature article, travelling far sweeter for his rider, jumping well bar the last, the ease in the ground obviously suited him. In May, connections had the notion of spins in France, before chasing, but he didn’t run in France this summer, so be interesting to see where they go next with him. Note that the yard won this race in 2008 with Diamond Harry.

Showing ability in both bumper races, Black Is Beauiful looks one destined for better things when handicapping or when stamina is brought to the fore. Flopped on hurdles debut, Richard Lee in stable tour back in February stated he wasn’t right:

“Forget his running at Ludlow, we had him scoped after and he was full of mucus. We like him but he is babyish.”

He looked babyish here, being cajoled along from 4 out by Will Kennedy, he is still only 4yo and expect a fair bit to come from him this season, Knock A Hand ran in the 2m4f Maiden Hurdle at Chepstow last year, and this year’s renewal is 7th November, so be interesting to see if he gets an entry in that.

Wincanton 18-Oct-12 Good to Soft

Racing Post state that the first division of the 2m6f Maiden Hurdle was 4 sec slower, however after taking time from 4 out, in Div I they went around the 3rd last, Gas Line Bob took 1:44.10 to get home and in Div II Provo took 1:43.20, so don’t think there was much in it time wise, Racing Post Ratings has Div II winner Provo rated 13lbs better than Gas Line Boy, not sold on that. Performance wise I was very taken by Gas Line Bob, he could have come into this race on the back of two wins in p2p but fell when going well in 2nd 2 out on debut, and only 11 days later back out, winning comfortably:

The concluding six-year-old geldings race went to the Paul Keane owned and trained Gas Line Boy. The son of Blueprint had fallen at Loughanmore on his racing debut when going well in second but managed to put that behind him here to score convincingly by five lengths back to Wee Johnny. A delighted Keane commented, “This is the most naturally talented horse i have ever trained. He even won despite hating the ground. He is now for sale”

Here, and straight in a hood which suggests that Hobbs has got into his head, he wasn’t always fluent but travelled kindly through the race and powered clear. Those in behind looked better sorts than in Div II also, Subtle Sovereign benefitting from the step up in trip, and again another Lavelle runner looking in need of the run in Tidal Dance, staying on after blowing up 2 out.
 
RACING DEBRIEF – WEEK ENDING 28/10/12

EXETER Tue 23-Oct-12 Good to Soft (Soft in places) C: 6.3 H: 6.1

2:40 – Novices’ Hurdle 2m1f



As always, Exeter hosts some interesting novice races, and this card was no exception.

Mr Mole was Paul Nicholls’ first runner in JP McManus’ colours and started this relationship in the best possible way. Green on debut when running away with a Hereford bumper, he looked green early here also. Mistake at the first, pulling slightly through the race and jinking right as he approached the last. With plenty more still to come, interestingly Paul Nicholls was quoted as saying he is a horse set on “Saturday track for six weeks’ time or so” which would point towards the Novice Hurdle that Tetlami won on Tingle Creek day last year.

Melodic Rendezvous lost nothing in defeat here, a relatively sedate pace didn’t suit him, he looked keen in parts but did job well, and rallied to come away a clear second. Looks set now for a step up in trip, and a good test over 2m4f will suit him.

The Italian Yob was in the firing line throughout, and was closer to Melodic Rendezvous this time around than in bumper run. He jumped well in the main, another which looks destined to be campaigned over further with stamina in his family, Dam a 3m point winner. Proximity to the above two sorts probably squandered any chance of a decent handicap mark.

Basil Fawlty has handicapper stamped all over him. Tom wasn’t rushing to enter the racecourse proper, settled his mount as well as possible early on, jumped well in main and still travelling approaching three out, took a pull when Zulu Principle cut infront of him, given a smack approach two out, then allowed to coast home in his own time. Result = Official Rating of 106.

4:40 – Beginners’ Chase 3m

Another quality field, with the four finishing having ratings over timber as 135, 139, 139 and 138.

Kim Bailey came into the race fairly confident of Harry Topper’s chances on chasing debut looking at his blog post on the morning:

Harry Topper, who has won his bumper and two hurdle races and then went on to finish 2nd to Brindisi Breeze in a listed hurdle race at Haydock, takes to fences this afternoon for the first time.
A huge ask in a very competitive Beginners chase; he is only 4th top rated on hurdle form but could he be better over fences?
We are delighted with him and look for a bold showing. Interesting race. Jason Maguire rides.

As such it was no surprise to see him get on top late on probably being the fitter of the 4 runners. Kim continued on his blog praising “Harry”:

Harry Topper was magnificent yesterday when winning possibly the best beginners chase run so far this season.
With 4 horses in the race with hurdle ratings of 135 or over it was always going to be a good Beginners chase if they all stood up. And yes it was and they did
Harry Topper jumped well for his first time in public and came to win his race turning for home, only to be over taken by the favourite, one of Paul Nicholl’s horses.
Harry was a length or so down jumping the last and then stuck his head down and battled past the favourite on the run in to win by a length.
It is not something you see very often, a Nicholls horse being overtaken when in front, but wow that was really exciting and it was a joy to watch.
A fine ride by Jason Maguire who again showed why he is so good.. bizarrely it was his only ride of the day.. perhaps he should try and get a ride on one of Robin Dicken’s old horses!!!!
Harry Topper is an odd horse, possibly a freak as he box walks, crib bites, weaves.. you name it he has all the vices but he has the heart of a lion. Good boy!!!
He is fine this morning and as yet we have no plans; he is only 5 and needs looking after but yesterday showed that he is potentially very good.. yes exciting.

Give in the ground looks a necessity for this son of Sir Harry Lewis, and stamina in his locker, he could be a Welsh National sort for next season, but he isn’t the biggest.

Rocky Creek looked to have the race in the bag between the last two fences, but was caught short late on. Nicholls did state that he would come on for the run, looking as though he blew up between 4th and 3rd last, and be interesting to see where they go next with this half bro of Tell Massini.

I’m of the opinion that Gullinbursti will end up being the best of these over fences for a number of reasons. Firstly, like majority of Lavelle’s runners in last fortnight, he needed the run and the distress signals were there for all to see with his jump to the left 4 out. He did hang left when beating Grand Vision over timber at Hereford, so I’d be looking to send him to the £25k 2m6f Novice Chase at Haydock on the Friday of the Betfair Chase Meet.

WORCESTER 24-Oct-12 Good to Soft (Soft in places) 6.1

2:10 Handicap Chase 2m4f

Readers of previous posts on http://racingtictacs.wordpress.com would have seen how highly I rate the form of Chepstow 4:45 on Saturday 13th October, Golden Chieftain comments below:

Golden Chieftain was never in it, his wins have come when sat prominently, so no doubt this was a pipe opener for something down the line, questions is what, but the 2lbs drop will be welcomed no doubt, and he could be one that sneaks in off bottom weight in something like the Badger Ales as he does seem to enjoy coming into races on the back of a run.

Here he travelled well prominently, and won going away resulting in a 15lb hike in the weights to 142. I’d still be tempted in running him in the Badger Ales at Wincanton, a 0-150 race.

AINTREE 27-Oct-12 Good C: 7.2 H: 7.1

3:30 Old Roan Chase (Limited Handicap) 2m4f



For Non Stop has suggested in his performances that this sort of run was in him, and today everything clicked. He enjoys the ground on the easy side of good, he likes to come off a good clip and his jumping has improved. The race fell apart due to Mad Max and Stagecoach Pearl going for it from the off, even so those that you’d expect to come into the race late on didn’t. Going back over his performances last year, you can say that he has been competing in the right races, but nothing going right for him – Beaten by Al Ferof, jumped and travelled well but not much pace early on, sketchy jumping cost him at Newbury behind Cue Card, before running away with a good Novice race at Newbury this time over 2m4f. Jewson, the front two had flown but he finished a clear 3rd. Raised to 162, he will likely be running off top weight if taking his chance in Paddy Power which would be an ask, but I don’t think it’d be insurmountable and I would definitely have him on my mind for the King George.

Mahogany Blaze deserves a mention as I thought he ran with real credit here. Midfield early, he moved well into third three out, and if he did not hit that fence I think he could have been looking at 3rd place. He has been dropped to 140 by handicapper, his lowest ever rating over fences, and I think he has a win in him off that mark given that a change to cheekpieces has brought about a return to a semblance of form. For all his efforts, he’s not won beyond 2m and there is a 2m 0-145 Handicap on Friday of the Paddy Power Meeting which I’d think he would have a chance in, failing that any 2m-2m4f Handicap 0-145.

CHEPSTOW 27-Oct-12 Good to Soft C: 5.7 H: 5.4

2:05 3m Maiden Hurdle

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.

2:35 Novices’ Chase

Impressive jumping performance from Masters Hill saw him take this race in ready fashion. Winner of a p2p on Heavy ground, he was snapped up for £64k at Newbury sales in March this year. Disappointed over hurdles, but I think you could forgive him that run as there is every chance that he could very well still have been feeling that p2p win, and also the sharp nature of Bangor hurdles track was never going to be in his favour. Connections expected him to improve for the run, which makes you wonder what there is to come, or maybe there’s a chance he is best fresh. Still for the time being I’m marking him down as a very exciting Novice staying chaser.

The form of those behind is far from shabby too, Rev It Up is rated 130+ over timber, placed in Grade 2 hurdle at Cheltenham as a novice, and he reversed hurdles form with Deireadh Re comfortably. Looked to be going nowhere quick down the back straight, he did stay on well to finish a clear second. Knock A Hand needs it soft, and when it is soft I expect him to leave this form behind. Di Kaprio jumped right throughout, and be interesting to see if shrewd connections continue left handed trying to get a handicap mark.

4:15 Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle 2m4f



A lot to be gained from watching the replay of this race a few times, and I am certain it will throw up winners down the line.

Lamb Or Cod ground out a win at Thurles, when suggesting that a step up in trip and better ground would suit, and so it proved today. There is certainly more to come from him also given that he missed out a couple of hurdles on back straight, and he always seemed to have enough up his sleeve to account for two good types. Arthurian Legend loves Chepstow, form figures now read 311132, and was coming into this race rated only 5lbs higher than last year’s romp. Michael Nolan had him in the right position throughout the race given how it panned out, and he’s a 7lb claimer to have on side. Tony Star completed the 1-2-3 for Hobbs here, and it seems he’s just about getting the hang of things. Before his midseason break, he wasn’t really going anywhere but in his previous 4 starts coming into this race he finished 4th at Newbury, getting there too soon, 5th in Befair Series Hurdle Final, then 2nd in Swinton before winning comfortably on seasonal debut at Fontwell. Chasing looks a possible for Tony Star and be interesting to see how he gets on in that sphere as he’s best seen off a pace.

Of those in behind, number deserve a mention; Bakbenscher due to his long absence and coming from off the pace, Kitegen outpaced, but battled well, once again pointing to the wellbeing of Dickin’s yard, new gallop is still working wonders, and finally Robinson Collognes; first time tongue tie, very free early, likely to have needed it, dropped to 130 as a result.

AINTREE 28-Oct-12 Soft (Heavy in places) after race 3

1:40 Juvenile Hurdle 2m1f

Bar Far West, I’ve not been impressed by a Juvenile hurdler so far. Conditions were testing here, and that should have played into the hands of Handazan, ultimately it did, but I can see why they are looking to give him the snip. Wandered all way to the first, again failed to excel over hurdles, he looked to be idling considerably late on. For Two looked all over Handazan between the last two hurdles, but weakened late on and the 5lb penalty wouldn’t have helped his cause, and connections see him more as an embryo chaser than a Triumph hope. Moidore’s jumping went late on, but he will improve for the experience.
 
RACING DEBRIEF – WEEK ENDING 04/11/12

HAYDOCK 31-Oct-12 Soft 7

3:35 2m4f Handicap Hurdle

I think there’s a lot to like about San Telm and Yesyoucan performances’ here and would think that even off their revised marks (San Telm – 126 Yesyoucan – 125, they both have a win or two in them. Haydock’s hurdle track most definitely favours the handy sort, and as such no surprise that both were mid-div at worst at any point of this race.

San Telm has form on easy ground, as shown by his win at Fakenham last season; following that win connections had EBF Final aspirations, but by a disappointing run on quicker ground put them to bed, and he ended season with a solid 4th over 2m again at Fakenham. This season we’ve seen him on his tours, a good 3rd to Tony Star at Fontwell shaping as though that he’d not only come on for the run, but further would suit also, here he travelled well through the race, jumping was far from perfect at the last two flights, but once ahead didn’t look like being reined in. 2m4f+ on easy ground seems ideal given he’s from same family as Moscow Whisper and Our Ben. Rated 126 means be looking at the better races, but there is a 2m6f handicap hurdle at Ffos Las which could suit given the ground usually rides soft.

Yesyoucan seemed well thought of in his younger days, €30k as a foal, €80k at 3yo, he was disappointing in his runs before coming to Ellison’s for £6k in June, and that is looking like a snip given the performances under his care. Winner on debut for the yard at Hexham on Heavy ground, he jumped well in the main, before rallying after his mistake at the last. At Bangor he did all the donkey work before Forgotten Voice, in receipt of 7lbs and a Royal Hunt Cup winner, put him in his place. Today against NH types, he was more at home, and had everything beat other than the winner. Again he showed a willing attitude, and being raised to 125 he will no doubt be well placed by connections to find a winning opportunity. Being able to run in 0-125 races gives them a few more options also, and there’s a race at Musselburgh over 2m4f on 10th Dec which is something they’d likely aim for unless looking at fences now for this son of Beneficial.

UTTOXETER 02-Nov-12 C: Soft H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) C: 5.0 H: 5.2

12:50 2m4f110y Novices’ Hurdle

Market leaders didn’t really fire here, with Up To Something never travelling on second circuit, Alpancho struggling down the back and Explained beat into the straight, but one that did fire was Coneygree to make it 2 from 2 here at Uttoxeter.

Here on debut he accounted for a fair field, San Telm was 6l behind him, and connections were raving about this half-brother to Carruthers; Trainer Mark Bradstock: “Coneygree´s a stronger horse at this stage than Carruthers ever was. We´ve already schooled him over hurdles and he´s dynamite. There are no firm plans but we´ve always thought he was a decent horse.” Decent enough to run him in one of the hottest bumpers of last season at Newbury, however he blew his chance after being keen early, was allowed to travel widest of all in the straight, and was looked after when chance was gone in the final few furlongs. Here his hurdling was fluent, he was able to pull out that little bit more when required, and when he was driven at the 3rd last he put the race to bed. Connections kick to come out with the usual line; anything over hurdles is a bonus, but I think he could be something special. Carruthers ran in the Grade 2 hurdle at Warwick which has been won by Court In Motion and Cotton Mill in recent renewals, so be interesting to see if they give him a run out early December under a penalty with that race being a possible target.

WETHERBY 02-Nov-12 Good to Soft 6.4

2:00 2m4f110y Listed Handicap Chase



Fair renewal of this handicap chase there are a number of horses in this race I want to flag up for differing reasons, starting with the winner.

Bless The Wings won this well enough after giving everyone a scare at the first. Seemingly connections think he is best fresh, however his one bad run in the formbook is that when 6th to Our Island over 3m+ on Soft ground back in Feb 11, still 2 of his 3 career wins have come on seasonal debut, and it looks like they will now look to 3m chases. This race was 0-150 race; he’s now been raised to 145 so 0-145 races are still an option, and if connections want a nice easy 3m 0-145 Chase for decent prize this side of Xmas, then the Tommy Whittle Chase has to be on the radar, as in recent years it has been far from a tough race to win. One doubt would be the ground, as Haydock can get very soft, and as of yet, bar the failed attempt mentioned above, he has not been tested on it.

Lease Lend came into this race on the back of a pleasing return to the course over course and distance two weeks previously, and he didn’t disappoint today with the usual aids back on; tongue tie and cheekpieces. 4 of his 5 chase wins have been over a trip shorter than this, and I just feel he doesn’t get home over 2m4f, still rated 132 he could come back here in January for a 2m handicap he won in 2011 off 133.

L’Eldorado has run well twice now this season, without ever looking like threatening. On seasonal debut he was iffy at a couple, but still finished a creditable 4th in a 0-135 race, and today in Listed Class he stuck on well enough in the straight. He has since been dropped to 120 and there are far easier assignments out there for him which Chris Bealby will no doubt look for. A t quick glance there is a 2m4f110y 0-120 Chase at Southwell on the 4th December which is a possible given he has placed form there, or a £10k race at Leicester on the 28th.

ASCOT 03-Nov-12 Good to Soft C: 6.5 H: 7.4

1:25 2m3f Beginners’ Chase

A fair bit of the attention was taken away from Kapga De Cerisy’s run by Hadrain’s Approach late rally to win in the shadows of the post, but I was very impressed with Kapga here. Travelled close up out wide he jumped well and coming into the straight he looked the likely winner, trading 1.7 in running on Betfair. However his jumping went to pieces over the last two fences, and I’m happy to put that down to tiredness as he did wander to the left under pressure, note he went left in his hurdle win too at Sandown. He was an expensive purchase from France, €300k, and connections did state from the outset that they’d expect better when sent chasing. I’d like to see him dropped back to 2m for his next start.

2:35 2m Listed Handicap Hurdle



A note on the start first, starter brought them back after a false start, but Fiendish Flame went up half the straight, being lit up and took a while to get him back and settled well enough, he’s a good horse on Flat RH tracks, both fences and hurdles so even though conditions should have suited, I’d scrub this run off completely.

Raya Star is improving year on year, connections were thinking of sending him over fences, but now following this win they are looking at the Coral Hurdle on the 24th November. One of the reasons they are looking at this race also is because he has matured so much in last twelve months. Previously he was a bit of a tearaway, and unless getting the quick pace he was a goner, today he didn’t get it, but at Ayr there was a sign that he didn’t need it any longer and maybe the application of earplugs have had the desired effect. Still the Coral Hurdle will be a proper test for him, as not only will he come up against better opposition, it’ll be another test in just how he settles in a single figure field.

It’s A Gimme confirmed the potential he had shown when sent off 7/2f in a competitive race at Aintree Festival, but it’s definitely this trip which suits him best. Has some fair form in the book as a novice with the likes of Hazy Tom, Colour Squadron and Baby Shine and with Raya Star going for the Coral Hurdle, he’s the one likely to look at upholding the form of this race in the RP Hurdle at the Paddy Power meet if connections decide to run him rather than Darlan.

Emma Lavelle was worried about the ease in the ground for her runner Claret Cloak, but as the graphic shows he was up there throughout and deserves extra credit for his finishing position. Yard had this race mapped out a long way out, and they won it with Tocco Ferro back in 2010 before winning the Gerry Fielden at Newbury. Lavelle went easy on Claret Cloak after his win at Sandown as she thought he looked weak following that win, so be interesting to see if they go for that (4 week gap), or wait for the Ladbroke over course and distance in 7 weeks’ time.

Street Entertainer ran well here despite the ease in the ground, 2m on good ground looks his trip and be of some interest if he takes up his engagement in the Elite Hurdle this weekend, but that race looks a class above this one based on depth of entries.

3:10 Handicap Chase 3m

Disappointed by the performance of Ace High here, but Victor Dartnall mentioned this week that he wasn’t right when brought back home and is on the easy list. Fingers crossed nothing too serious, but looking like he is a very fragile horse.

Roberto Goldback’s jumping was a cut above his rivals here, and that’s what won him today, but it’s also worth noting that this was only his 3rd start in handicap company; other two being Spinal Research Gold Cup last December, and Leinster National in March, both runs were off a 6lbs higher mark. He was also suited by the make-up of the race with Alfie Spinner the best of those up with the pace. Duke Of Lukka was another to sneak into the race from the back, and Hobbs was far from confident he’d be ready for seasonal debut, so expect some improvement to come from him.

One that I do think deserves greater mention is Nataani, below is a comment I made about his win on the 11th October:

Nataani (4:00) has improved considerably for stepping up in trip, and given he’s a half brother to Patsy Hall, it’s hardly a surprise. Always looked like staying hurdler/chaser in the making when campaigning as a novice, it’s taken them a while to come around to this line of thinking with regards to trip. Has been known to hang left in his races, it is a worry that trainer has an Ascot race in mind next time out:

11Oct12 Worcester ( 23 Gd ,RPR136 )
The plan is to return to fences for the United House Chase at Ascot next month – Tony Worth, owner

Timmy did look to go on the inside after passing the winning post first time round, and I don’t think it was the case of better ground v shortest route debate, so looks like I’ll wait until he goes left handed.

Not entered in the Hennessy, Jo Davis has had a few runners at Chepstow in recent years, and there’s a 3m 0-145 Chase on the 8th December that would suit him as the rail is on the inside of chase track throughout, whereas at Haydock, where there’s a race on Betfair Chase Weekend, the hurdles track is on the inside.

Perplexed by Poquelin run here, wins off 151, 163, 170 in handicap company have always come when he has tracked leaders, today he was out the back. The above three wins came at Cheltenham, and this run has seen his mark drop back to 163. Harry Derham likely to keep the ride claiming 7lbs, he could be of interest in the Paddy Power.

WETHERBY 03-Nov-12 Good to Soft (Soft in places) 6.3

3:25 Charlie Hall Chase 3m1f

Not sold on the form of this race one bit. Race didn’t begin in earnest until the home straight, and the majority of these come out of the race with fairly big questions to answer.

Silviniaco Conti once again showed a liking to flat tracks, but connections were hardly bullish about targets for this son of Dom Alco. Brian Nicholls saying he may be next seen at Newbury, as he’s unsure whether he’s a King George horse after all last season saying it would be the target, either way, and in either contest, he’ll get more of a race than he got today.

Wayward Prince had been freshened up by Hilary Parrott, and previously, fresh seems to be the best time to catch him. Four of his career wins have come with a break of 45 days between his races, and this could arguably be rated a career best effort. What is worrying is that connections have him entered in the Betfair Chase and Hennessy which I would skip and keep him fresh for the Rowland Meyrick which he finished 4th in last year off same mark of 150. However, given that he showed an improvement in his jumping and travelled much kinder for Jack Doyle today, there is every chance that they have found the key to this quirky sort, and more could be expected next time out.

Time For Rupert has questions to answer now, more questions than previously, and that’s a lot of questions. Planet Of Sound would not have enjoyed the easier conditions (last fence omitted due to ground) and happy to give him another chance. Master Of The Hall has been beating up Veterans in small runner fields, but has not been given any respite for this poor run.

CARLISLE 04-Nov-12 C: Heavy (Soft in places) H: Heavy C: 6.1 H: 5.9

Bold Sir Brian put on a bold show of jumping today, connections beginning to look at loftier targets, and I note he’s been given a King George entry. He came back from his last start distressed, but after a summer break Lucinda saw him return to the yard looking better than ever and noticeably stronger, as they thought he looked unfurnished last season, doubting whether they went chasing a year too soon. He only had 3 starts over hurdles, so it’s understandable why they thought that, but now you can see that the experience wasn’t lost on him as his jumping is a marked improvement. King George maybe a step too far, so soon, but there is a Graduation Chase at Ascot on the 22nd December which may be of interest or an Intermediate Chase at Sandown over 3m, either race he’d be carrying a penalty due to this win.

Rival D’Esturval ran a solid race, yet today the smaller field would not have suited him, also he did seem to jump left at times. It will be interesting to see where connections go next with him.

HUNTINGDON 04-Nov-12 Soft C: 6.2 H: 6.3

1:15 Novices’ Chase 2m4f110y

Two horses re-opposed from run on the 16th October 2012; and these were my comments on that run:

0-140 Novice Chase, so this was bound to be a hot heat, and with all 6 rated 130+ over hurdles or fences, then this form is bound to hold through the winter. Every quote from Charlie Longsdon mouth when Hildisvini was winning over hurdles pointed to him being a chaser in the making, and he didn’t disappoint here. He had the run of the race here, but was impressive in his jumping, and looked to have more in the locker if required; quote from Longsdon’s blog following run:

Hildisvini put in a fine round of jumping yesterday to give Noel his first win back from injury. It was great for both of them – I know was desperate to get the first winner out of the way. Hildisvini was great considering the ground was a shade on the quick side and we know he wants further.

He disappointed early on last year, however since the application of a tongue tie his form reads 1511, that 5th was at Wincanton when he was held up, other starts he has sat mid div, prominent and here leading, so I’d look at that run more favourably. 8 of his 9 runs over obstacles have come on Right Handed tracks however I think this is more coincidence than anything else, yet if not it leaves with one option on horizon for next start and that would be the Rising Novices Chase at Wincanton on 10th November.

Well Regarded took a walk in the market, 12s out to 20s on course after drifting all day. As per Cheltenham Debrief I’m looking to back Lavelle’s on the back of a run, and this run was certainly encouraging. Didn’t get a fence right in the home straight first time around he was detached with 5 to jump, but made good headway into the straight, before again fiddling a couple. This experience would have helped no end, and he should find a 0-140 or 0-130 Novice Chase well within his compass.

Wasn’t blown away by Forgotten Gold’s performance here, and when looking through his form over timber, he looks flattered off a rating of 135. With just a win at Ludlow to his name, courses, and competition of that level will likely suit him.

Whereas that day we saw Hildisvini lead from the front, here it was slightly different:



Today Well Regarded was in receipt of 7lbs, but that did not seem to matter, nor did the crunching mistake 2 out, as Hildisvini continued on up the run and popped the last. He’s far from the biggest, but he has some engine. Form with tongue tie now reads: 15111, 5 of his 6 wins over obstacles have come on a right handed track, points to one thing; a tilt at Feltham Novices’ Chase.
 
Appreciate you are trying to be helpful Colin, but might it be better to post a link to the blog? Seems fair that if someone goes to the trouble of writing a blog, they should get the credit and page hits at source.
 
I thought it was useful to have it posted here, as I'll never remember to check the blog. Same applies to the 'thoughts of Nick Mordin' and 'views of the handicapper' threads.
 
Colin Phillips said:
Posted a link in the first post in this thread, David.

I'll leave it at then, sorry.
Click to expand...

Please don't leave it Colin, taking the time to do what you do is greatly appreciated by loads on here. Your 2yo - First Season sires - handicap blog - nick mordin - bumper views etc etc are all must read posts. I thank you.
 
Maybe the best thing is to ask Dan Kelly what he thinks. If I was him I'd be very pleased to hear my material was receiving positive attention, but I'd want the link to the blog posted each time material from it is copied across to here.
 
Afternoon all,

Been told about this topic by another forumite, so thought be best to post.

Thanks for the kind words, and happy that it has seemingly been well received. I'm happy for the copy to be duplicated here, all I ask is that a link of the actual post is included so people can see the maps I publish along with the comment. Also, any feedback be greatly appreciated as folk seem to be afraid to press the "comment" button, either on the blog, or here as I will step in time to time.

Thanks again
Dan
 
Last edited:
Lets hope Colin hasn't dragged Nick Mordin on us with all the copying and pasting on that other thread! :lol:
 
Dan It's great that you're OK with your content getting republished here.

Just some stuff on SEO that it might pay to take into account though....

One thing to be aware of is the way that Google handles duplicate content on the internet. Ideally there should be a time lag between publishing on your blog and it getting reproduced here.

The reason is that this forum might carry more 'weight' in Google's eyes - meaning your content could appear in search results with a link to the post on the forum here rather than direct to the post on your site.

It all depends on how quickly your new content (on your blog) gets indexed.

Not a massive problem, but equally might be worth thinking about. The plus side is that links from here to your content will/should help with your overall SEO.
 
Thanks Colin.

Happy for you to post content along with the direct link to post.

http://racingtictacs.wordpress.com/2012/11/15/racing-debrief-week-ending-111112/

KEMPTON 05-Nov-12 Good to Soft 6.9

2:40 2m5f Handicap Hurdle

A lot to like about both Fox Appeal and Medinas here for differing reasons. Fox Appealwas one I mentioned within Showcase Meeting preview, recap of those notes below;

Fox Appeal is another to keep a look out for, many of Emma Lavelle’s horses have needed the outing, throw in the fact that in better company he’ll be seen at his best on a right-handed track, he’s one to have onside if running in the Pertemps Qualifier at Exeter on the 14th November.

Next start will be in Brush Handicap Hurdle at Haydock. Maybe I have been a bit too keen in pigeonholing him as a right-hand track specialist as both his disappointing runs have come at Cheltenham; Albert Bartlett in March and on seasonal debut this year. Be interesting to see if Big Buck’s takes up his engagement at Haydock, as if doing so as Fox Appeal and Lovcen would be only horses in handicap proper.

Medinas dispelled the idea that he’s best fresh with another solid effort here which has seen his handicap mark rise to 140. Not the biggest of horses, he deserves a break, and given he ran well at Cheltenham in October, he should be saved for the final.

Black Thunder ran well for a long way before tiring late on, all talk has been of one run over hurdles then over fences, and it would be very interesting to see if that is the case, and we see him next in 2 miles chase. Beside The Fire again ran well, and off a mark of 120 he will be of interest when dropped back into and easier grade. Looks as though they campaigned him with the idea being a bit of character as last season Nov 11 to Oct 12 in 5 of his 9 runs he ran with one form of headgear, thankfully they seem to have now found the key as being best fresh, his 3 career wins coming after breaks of 178, 130 and 99 days. Throw in the fact that the wins were all on RH tracks, then look forward to seeing him in the New Year.

PLUMPTON 05-Nov-12 Soft C: 6.1 H: 5.6

12:50 2m Maiden Hurdle

Pendra was an impressive winner of a fair hurdle, but I thought he jumped slowly at times, and you’d look to be against him on better ground against slicker types over 2 miles, but I can’t wait to see this son of Mariah Rollins see a fence as he was foot perfect here.

EXETER 06-Nov-12 C: Good to Soft (Soft in places) H: Soft (Good to Soft in places) C: 6.5 H: 6.3

1:50 2m5f110y Novices’ Hurdle

As always, number of interesting types on paper, but Atlantic Roller was too good for them today. Settled just off the modest pace set by Gas Line Boy he moved through with his challenge three from home and had it sewn up fairly readily. Due to the modest pace, I wouldn’t be rushing to send him over 3m, and think 2m5f are races he should be aimed at for the time being. Beaten in two bumpers last year, Nicholls believes he has grown and it certainly seems as though he has matured too, plus the form of the Ascot bumper is working out fairly well.

Richard Johnson could have made more use of Gas Line Boy today; he is related to 3m+ horses, and a winner of a p2p. He bumped into one today, and should find easier opportunities under a penalty in coming weeks.

Two of those in behind deserve a mention also. De La Bech has been mentioned in a previous review, and again showed some promise after being keen early. It will be interesting to see if they look to bring him back in trip to ensure a quicker gallop, but he looks destined for staying handicap hurdles. The Potting Shed looks a typical Lavelle type, in that anything over hurdles will be a bonus. Looked a decent size, he was keen at times, made a move coming into the straight and didn’t look to handle the bend too well. Not knocked about when the chance had gone, I expect him to come on for the experience considerably.

2:20 2m1f Novices’ Hurdle

Improved performance here by Landscape, better at the hurdles and also sat just off the lead to make use of his stamina. At Cheltenham he looked slightly uneasy at the downhill hurdles, and post-race Nicholls said that he had done a lot of schooling since that run. His run also adds some substance to the form of the Cheltenham race won by Court Minstrel. 4th Falcarragh, 5th Softsong and 7th Rysbrack have come out of that race and finished 2nd next time out. The Romford Pele is entered at Taunton this week, and Titan De Sarti and Court Minstrel could both feature this Friday at Cheltenham.

2:50 2m1f110y Handicap Chase (Grade 2 Haldon Gold Cup)


Haldon Gold Cup Chase (A Limited Handicap) (Grade 2)
Visually I very much doubt you will see a better performance than Cue Card’s demolition of this field, however what did he beat?

Edgardo Sol who jumped left from the 3rd fence, and writing was very much on the wall a long way out. He was running here off a mark of 157, his only two tries on RH tracks have been over hurdles, and running notes are as follows:

Tended to jump left, held up in midfield, progress after 3 out to challenge before 2 out, faded after 2 out (op 10-3 tchd 5-2 and 4-1 in places)

Held up behind leaders, ridden after 2 out (usual 3 out), kept on but not going pace to get on terms

Ruby Walsh was cute coming to the last as he brought Edgardo Sol inside of Menorah ensuring that when jumping the last he would hamper Menorah at worst. Back left handed and we’ll see what he has got in his locker.

Menorah looks flattered by his Grade 2 win last season, and the form of that race is unravelling. Cristal Bonus is best fresh, Al Ferof didn’t look himself and Pepite Rose is a handicapper. Throw in the fact he went to Punchestown on the back of Cheltenham and Aintree, he could still be feeling last year’s 8 race campaign and is best watched for the time being.

Renard’s run can be forgotten, he was still travelling well enough when hitting the 7th, but after that mistake he was fighting a losing battle. Winner of 4 chases last year, he put up a decent performance on seasonal debut at Chepstow and doesn’t look weighted out of winning a fair 2m handicap chase.

Back to Cue Card, I don’t see the King George winner, he attacked these fences with pace, and his jumping was slick, he just travels too sweetly to be seen as a stayer. The Peterborough Chase is next port of call for him, so hopefully he faces a cast better than Can’t Jump (Menorah) Won’t Jump (Edgardo Sol).

3:20 2m1f110y Novices’ Chase

Peckhamecho was keen at Cheltenham, always doing too much, and today he had company in the form of Hinterland. As a result of his keenness however Peckhamecho has seen his mark drop from 141 to 133 which make Novice Handicap Chases a very appealing proposition. Two recent wins have come at sharp tracks, and there’s a 2m Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase 0-135 at Ludlow on the 13th December 2012.

Hinterland has now twice disappointed on his 2nd start of the season. Last year he sat behind the pace when winning a Triumph Trial at Cheltenham, he was turned over @ 2/7. This year he got a lead at Chepstow over timber, and then turned over here at 4/9. Always the subject of flashy reports at start of the season, horse to follow etc etc, may just be that he is just that a flashy type. He defeated Baby Mix who hasn’t covered himself in glory since, and this year he beat 120+ rivals in a handicap at Chepstow. Has it all to prove now.

As for the winner Theatre Guide, always thought of as a chaser, his bumper form has a fairly solid look to it, but will reserve judgement for the time being as to how good he is.

KELSO 10-Nov-12 Good to Soft (Soft in places) 6.9

2:05 2m7f110y Handicap Chase

Knockara Beau returned to winning ways over fences for the first time since Dec 2009. Dropped 6lbs for his run at Cheltenham, where the notorious 3m start proved tricky and as result was on the back foot from the off, he jumped well in the main to win this fairly comfortably. He has since been risen 6lbs to original mark of 145, so the Grade 3 3m1f Handicap at Cheltenham International Meet looks the obvious target. Recent years, under Jan Faltejsek he has finished 4th behind Midnight Chase off 149 and 3rd to Shakalaboomboom last year off 143, so he is weighted to run his race, plus Lucy Alexander is a superior jockey to Jan.

SANDOWN 10-Nov-12 C: Good to Soft H: Soft (Heavy in places) C: 6.9 H: 5.9

1:20 2m Beginners Chase

Overturn stole the show on Saturday at Sandown. Sticky at first two fences, he improved at every jump down the back straight and 13 fences, railway fences in particular, over 2 miles is a sound test for a Novice. However let’s not get carried away. He beat rivals rated 125-116 and had his own way up front. Likely to be out again soon, connections will undoubtedly keep him away from the winter ground and be put away until the spring.

WINCANTON 10-Nov-12 Good to Soft (Soft in places) C: 6.0 H: 6.2

2:15 Rising Star Novices’ Chase (Grade 2)


Rising Stars Novices’ Chase (Grade 2)
Interesting contest on paper, and it turned out to be on the track too. Houblon Des Obeaux was well ridden by Aidan Coleman, inside throughout, he got him jumping well and coming into the straight he had them stretched out. Judging by post-race quotes this was a well-executed plan by Trainer and Jockey:

We were a bit worried beforehand that there wasn´t a lot of pace and he had never made the running over hurdles. He wants further so I popped him out and he has jumped fantastic. He was rated 140 over hurdles but we could never wait to jump fences with him and he can do better.

Feltham probably next target, be interesting to see him and Hildisvini in the same race as it’ll certainly be a test of jumping and stamina if they both compete.

As you can see from the above, Ruby had Poungach in a very good position from the off, however mid race he seemed to let the race develop around him, by horses fault or by design. First and foremost it looked the case that they wanted him to have a clear round, in the main he jumped well and stayed on well till the line. We’ll know more following his next run, ideally over 3 miles so something like the Worcester Novices’ Chase at Newbury Hennessy Meet would suit.

Court In Motion ran a solid race after such a layoff, stumbled at the 7th, he jumped sideways at the 11th too, he too will appreciate a stiffer test, and like many of Lavelle runners will strip fitter next time out.

The worry with Tony Star is he pulls in his races, and that was an issue here. Slow early pace meant that Johnson was front rank far earlier than he’d have liked but still this was a fair effort from the Silver Trophy 3rd, now rated 140 opens up options for 0-140 2m1f Novices’ Handicap Chase on Thursday of Hennessy meet, alternatively the 2m4f Chase that Bobs Worth won last season could be an option.

2:50 2m Handicap Hurdle (Elite Grade 2)

Zarkandar was very week in the market suggesting that he wasn’t 100% fit for seasonal debut, how wrong the market was. He was giving away 16lbs+ to a high quality field, and the slow gallop wouldn’t have suited either, but he ground out victory and was well on top late on. Things didn’t go right for him last year where the Champion Hurdle was concerned, as he was not 100% coming into the race due to a cough, and after the race he didn’t want to school prior to Aintree fall. This year could be very different with the International Hurdle next port of call.

Prospect Wells was very forward for his run given the vibes, so I don’t think we will see much improvement come from him, however he’s one that is bound to be competitive in the likes of Ladbroke and Betfair Hurdle, i.e. classy handicapper at best.

Balder Succes was unlucky last year in Triumph and at Punchestown, and came into the race on the back of a hold up which Alan King thought he was over. Still should improve for the run, and easier ground will suit. Haydock has a 4yo hurdle which could be his next target.

3:25 3m1f110y Handicap Chase (Listed Badger Ales)


Badger Ales Trophy Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
The Package and Michel Le Bon had perfect trips through the race here. Both sat off what looked a fairly searching clip, notably Tamarinbleu helping to force it, and they were the only ones with anything left coming into the straight. The Package was handicapped to win a race of this nature, dropped 8lbs for his run in this race last year, he ran a sound race off 139 at the Cheltenham Festival, however I wouldn’t be rushing to back him for likes of Hennessy off his revised mark. Michel Le Bon put some sort of performance here, but again I’m not sold on the effort. He just crept into the race not making too many jumping errors, and given the pace and the poor jumping behind, then he was in right place at the right time.

Front 6 upto the 10th and front 4 at the 16th were tailed off/pulled up here, West End Rocker finishing best of those…a distance 3rd. Tamarinbleu in recent years has been a hold up sort, and won at Haydock last year off 145, he has been dropped to 145 following this run and will find easier contests. Golden Chieftain looked like a non-stayer here; he was keen early too which wouldn’t have helped him, so a drop to 2m6f looks ideal off his new mark of 138. West End Rocker has dropped 4lbs in the weights, and in the Beecher Chase could be his again if the rain comes for him. Ballyallia Man put up a fair effort on seasonal debut over timber at Chepstow, and he’s bound to find easier contest than this off his revised mark of 120, however I’d like to see him go back over hurdles off a 3lb lower mark.
 
I'm doing a series of Horses In Focus for the King George, will go back through all runs of a horse, with maps and comments for each run.

Anyone have any other horses away from these entries that they'd like me to look at over the coming weeks?

Thanks
Dan
 

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