Hexham – Saturday October 8th
Good (rain during meeting)
The opening two mile novices’ chase was won in decent style by L’ELDORADO, pulling away up the hill. It’s worth noting that this one probably doesn’t want to be over raced and goes well after a break.
QUITE THE MAN didn’t jump fluently and was a tad disappointing in third place, and I got the impression the up and downhill didn’t suit him.
THE MAGIC BISHOP won the Class 4 handicap chase in decent style, making up a lot of ground from the bottom of the hill and winning cosily. No reason why he shouldn’t win another chase on this evidence.
FRED BOJANGALS ran a darned sight better than he had done at Carlisle the previous day, staying on from two out to take second place. He has won off his current mark of 112.
Newcomer EMPEROR CHARLIE jumped poorly in the rear and was well beaten by four out.
FILL THE POWER only beat four in the maiden hurdle but did so very easily. There has been encouragement in all his outings and his should make a chaser in time, but a novice handicap hurdle may be within his compass.
MOMKINZAIN jumped with no fluency and was held from two out. He has ability to make a mark over jumps, but needs to sharpen his hurdling.
CLOUDY DAWN won the staying handicap chase with something to spare, but it was a very poor event, the well exposed TOULOUSE EXPRESS filling second and STORMION in third jumping with little fluency. DESERTMORE STAR was well beaten in fourth and this four-time pointing winner did nothing to justify some market confidence. At 10 years old he’s going to struggle to adjust to this sphere.
Lucinda Russell has a fair collection of young bumper horses this autumn and filled the first two places in the closing event run in descending murk. ROWDY ROCHER looks a type to be going forward with and the win here was very encouraging. He has winning hurdlers and chasers amongst his family and, having already won an point in Ireland, has the makings of an interesting jumps prospect. The four-year-old filly LOVE FROM VERONA has shown enough in three efforts in the frame to suggest she can win a race or two. The strong form of her Perth races further boosts confidence in the winner.
Sunday, 9 October 2011
Saturday, 8 October 2011
Kelso open their Autumn programme
KELSO – Sunday October 2nd
Going – Good to Soft (Soft in places)
Kelso’s first meeting since May signals the start of the Scottish autumn jump campaign. There was heavy rain overnight and in the morning, but the course was presented in magnificent condition.
Proceedings opened with the annual Border Principals Race with various towns from the area that partake of the tradition of Common Riding putting forward a competitor. An interloper from outside the Borders one, with Musselburgh rider Scott Nisbet stealing a 5 length lead on the rest at the start in the two furlong event and never looking likely to be caught. Iain Dick of Lauder was first of the locals home and Tracey McNaughton was third for Edinburgh.
2.05 2m ½f Sunday Mail Handicap Hurdle (115-86)
A bunch of well exposed hurdlers contested the first Rules race on the card. WWETFROMTHECHAFF was well held by better weighted opponents at Perth last time, but led at the last here and held on determinedly in the last 100 yards. I fancy it was just his day on this occasion and he won’t be particularly well treated in future. He held off LAWGIVER, an inconsistent sort who wins occasionally but is eminently beatable.
The pair pulled clear of KING’S CHORISTER who performed respectably from 3lbs out of handicap and is a consistent sort worthy of consideration if dropped in class. Lucy Alexander’s claim will be useful assuming she keeps the ride.
Keen going BORDER TALE led or disputed until giving way at the last, and while CLAUDE CARTER has gone close a few times he is essentially a weak finisher and needs things to fall right.
KNIGHT VALLIANT was pulled up before the last after bashing two out and his rider losing his irons, the saddle having slipped. He went well enough to that point and was in contention.
2.40 2m ½f Unwin Second Half Century Juvenile Hurdle (Class 4)
Lee Edwards stole this race on KIE who travelled from Wolverhampton for this engagement. He set off in front, was soon clear and nothing got near him. The time was a couple of seconds slower than the first race so it was at least respectable.
MICA MIKA kept on for second and made a sound enough hurdling bow. RESIDENCE AND SPA made it four frame finishes from five hurdles runs and might need to wait for the handicapper to slow others down before he can win.
Well backed LEXI’S BOY ran no sort of race, fading quickly after the fourth. I assume there was a problem though nothing appeared on the BHA website.
A forty minute gap allowed us to watch the Prix De L’Arc Triomphe on the big screen. Sadly only those with access to the colours had any idea of who was doing what. Black mark to the usually reliable Kelso executive since there was no commentary over the PA and no colours in the racecard. It’s easy to get the impression that racing from elsewhere is stuck on the screen just to fill the time.
3.20 3m 1f Isle Of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky Handicap Chase (86-115)
STAR BEAT is decent stayer on his day and proved too good for inferiors here. He got into contention from four out and picked off the leader after the last. A nine length win here will mean a move up in class is forced and life will be tougher.
COPPER’S GOLD ran a decent race in second, leading until the last and keeping on to finish a clear best of the rest. He did look in good nick, thrives when’s there’s cut in the ground and may still be capable of improvement.
ROSSINI’S DANCER made a bad mistake at the first and almost unseated. One or two slow jumps mid race didn’t help but he stayed on through the field form two out.
TREEHOUSE, an improver in 2009/2010, hinted at returning to form on his second run after a season off. He plugged on for fourth without threatening the leaders.
SOUBRIQUET gave way from two out and is difficult to catch right. Irish challenger dropped away from two out having made one or iffy jumps.
PRINCE MERANO looked rather lethargic in the paddock and struggled from a mile out, pulling up before four out.
NGONG HILLS ditched his rider at the first, but ran along enthusiastically with the field the rest of the way, which I rate as at least a sign of some interest.
3.55 2m 6 ½ f NSPCC School Service Intermediate Hurdle (Class 4)
Three of last season’s decent Scottish novices appeared in this event.
AIKMAN didn’t disgrace himself in decent company toward the end of last season and I suspect there is still a little more to come. He was presented looking very well by James Ewart, yet still giving the impression there was something left to work on. He pulled clear readily in the latter stages and will now be aimed at chasing, with a beginners’ event at Carlisle on October 20th the first target. He looks one who has been crying out to be jumping fences and is an exciting prospect.
ARCTIC COURT progressed last season and turned into a decent handicapper. He was another who looked as if the race might bring on and he was unable to match the winner from the last, hanging toward the inside rail under pressure. A sound debut on which he should build upon in the coming weeks.
THE STARBOARD BOW was stepped up in trip here. He didn’t jump particularly cleanly and had nothing left in the tank from the last. He can jump better than this and will see out the trip properly.
AFRICAN FLORA was hopelessly outclassed but Kenny Johnson concentrated on getting her round for fourth prize money on here hurdling debut without taxing her unduly.
4.25 2m 2f Alexandra Carrington Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Div 1) (62-95)
The theory that low prize money is causing owners to desert the sport suffered a hole below the waterline as 29 were declared for this event racing for ‘take home prize money’ of £1238. The race was split into two heats and one runner was eliminated. We lost a few due to the change in the going, but plenty are willing to run horses regardless of reward, which suggests it’s viewed as a fun pursuit. Certainly my own very minor involvement in ownership is on ‘money I expect to lose’ basis.
Neither event was particular exciting with two groups of underachievers. ENDEAVOR led three out and was all out in the latter stages to hold BARLIFFEY. The second would not be the most committed to the job, and the rest were held with NISAAL and CARTERS REST doing no more than plug on at one pace to fill the frame.
5.00 2m 2f Alexandra Carrington Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Div 1) (61-94)
Episode 2 was won by THE DUNION from the yard of Bonchester Bridge trainer Rob Macdonald. Again this was a poor contest, but Macdonald had his contender nicely fit and Campbell Gillies rode a decent race from the front group. The winner responded well when asked from two out and shows enough to suggest there may be another little race for him along the line.
DRAMATIC JEWEL couldn’t make any impression in the final furlong and is basically a very moderate performer. Maiden under both codes TINSELTOWN stayed on under pressure for third.
SYDNEY COVE has proved very headstrong and was restrained in the rear. He picked up some ground in the latter stages and may get competitive once he learns to settle. He’s better than his bare jumps form suggests.
5.30 2m 6 ½ f Radio Borders Handicap Chase (60-95)
SUPER ALLY improved on previous chasing efforts and won this comfortably, pulling clear on the run-in. His probable serious rival whacked the last and the second was 9lbs shy in the handicap so I suspect this wasn’t up to much and that the contest fell into the winner’s lap.
BARRY THE CRACKER ran as well as might be expected for one rated only 60. He doesn’t impress in the paddock, walking rather stiffly, but tried gamely during the race. He led or disputed for much of the way and was only collared from the last.
SOME CATCH had every chance until thumping the last and not recovering. Her form offers more encouragement than some in this race and she would likely have given the winner more to do if not stopped in her tracks. She is worthy of consideration in similar company.
NIFTY ROY raced prominently until fading from three out. He was reported lame at the finish.
FRONTIER BOY looks a nice chasing type, but he made two many errors and lost touch in the final mile. The race will have brought him on.
GUNS AND BUTTER went wrong after three out and was swiftly pulled up. On an optimistic note the screens weren’t put up and he was walked into the horse ambulance.
WATERSKI attracted some interest in the market and looked plenty fit enough. He was well behind when pulling up. A bandage had come loose on his hind leg and surprised me that nobody attended to this when he was brought back to unsaddle, the bandage still flapping loose as he was led away to the stables.
LINDSEYFIELD LODGE, twice a winner around here, jumped poorly and never took a huge amount of interest. He’ll probably pop up at a fancy price when he feels up to, but when that will be is anyone’s guess.
6.00 2m ½ f City Roofing Ltd Standard Open NH Flat Race
No races get my pen and notebook going better than a Kelso bumper and once again there were numerous encouraging signs.
THE WEATHERMAN had run well enough here previously and sprinted clear from the ‘two pole’ for a comfortable victory. He’s not one in the normal McCain mould, being fairly small, but he shifts a bit and looks a decent prospect for hurdling.
MITCHELL’S WAY, hailing from the Swinbank yard who are often in the mix in these events, pulled hard early on but was still bang there two out. He kept without threatening the winner but will find easier opportunities.
Irish pointing winner BAWN REAGH, well regarded at Lucinda Russell’s Arlary Stables, set a steady pace and kept on under pressure to take third. He was reported sore after the race, but showed enough to suggest he will be a winner in time. He was just in front of stablemate RHYMERS HA’ who pulled very hard but is going the right way.
Mares’ bumper winner GROOVY DANCER wasn’t totally disgraced in fifth and will find easier opportunities against her own sex.
A couple of others well down the field caught eye. CALL IT OUT is a steeplechasing type but he’s only four and will need time to mature. His first two runs read as poor form but he may leave those efforts behind in time.
DARK EXILE was last, but he was never going to excel in a race where they only started racing from the mile marker. He’s an impressive chasing type who will surely show better than this run given time.
WILL BE MINE is another who should make a jumper in time. He was left behind from three furlongs out here.
Hexham – September 30th
OUTLAW TOM appeared at Hexham a couple of days earlier and pleased connections in staying on for third in a 3m 1f novices’ chase, beaten about 10 lengths. MAJESTIC MAYHEM ran a sound race in second and looks a good measure, while the winner LACKAMON is worth noting as one who could go on to better things over jumps.
Staying chasers EYRE SQUARE and SIMPLY SMASHING fought out a stirring battle in the 3m novices’ hurdle. No lack of commitment from either who go into the autumn campaign in good heart.
FRITH won the Class 5 two mile handicap chase off a mark of 68. He’s very well treated no his best form and might be placed to pick up a race or two more.
Carlisle – October 7th
The new hurdles course was used for the first time. HOUSTON DYNIMO won the novices hurdle to become the first winner around the circuit. The hurdles track is inside the chase track and noticeably sharper than the outer track used previously. It might just end being a bit of a specialist’s track as it mixes sharpness with a stiff finish.
HUMBIE stayed on to win the Class 4 handicap chase. I’ve liked this one for a while and he might make a mark in a higher class and he saw out this thee mile trip nicely. The story is that he is often taken out for trips in his horsebox to keep his mind occupied as he is a bit of a worrier!
STRONGBOWS LEGEND held every chance and kept on for second. He pulled clear of the rest and it would be a surprise if Charlie Longsdon couldn’t find a race for him.
NGONG HILLS made up for his Kelso mishap, being bang there most of the way and keeping on for third if held by the first two. His trainer has room for manoeuvre off his current mark of 97.
The two and a half mile novices’ chase at this meeting can be informative, but we lost three at the seventh fence. However, the winner TIME FOR SPRING looks to have a bit of scope as a chaser, and those behind him, BALLYCOLIN and ROLECARR created a sound enough impression. BALLYCOLIN will show up better when moved up in trip.
James Ewart has started the season in decent fashion and QUICUYO took the two mile handicap chase. A wind operation seems to have helped him and he is worth looking out for when racing at Ayr as he has a fine record there.
PETE won the conditional jockeys’ hurdle to give Lucy Alexander a first win as a professional. He was in front way too soon as horses either side fell away from two out, but his rider managed to coax more than expected to hold off fast finishing SOLWAY BLUE. The fact that PETE never wins by far does help as he doesn’t get harshly punished, is a good deal better than he sometimes cares to let on, and is ideally suited by a decent sized field where he can pick his way through late on.
Back in third SUPER BABY looked much happier than last season. He gave me the impression that he might have had a back problem last season. He jumped neatly in front here and battled back late on to take third place having been outpaced form two out. He certainly doesn’t look overweighted off a mark of 95.
BARLIFFEY had every chance approaching the last but jumped it very slowly and couldn’t get back into the race. He’s in good form but likely to prove difficult to win with.
Going – Good to Soft (Soft in places)
Kelso’s first meeting since May signals the start of the Scottish autumn jump campaign. There was heavy rain overnight and in the morning, but the course was presented in magnificent condition.
Proceedings opened with the annual Border Principals Race with various towns from the area that partake of the tradition of Common Riding putting forward a competitor. An interloper from outside the Borders one, with Musselburgh rider Scott Nisbet stealing a 5 length lead on the rest at the start in the two furlong event and never looking likely to be caught. Iain Dick of Lauder was first of the locals home and Tracey McNaughton was third for Edinburgh.
2.05 2m ½f Sunday Mail Handicap Hurdle (115-86)
A bunch of well exposed hurdlers contested the first Rules race on the card. WWETFROMTHECHAFF was well held by better weighted opponents at Perth last time, but led at the last here and held on determinedly in the last 100 yards. I fancy it was just his day on this occasion and he won’t be particularly well treated in future. He held off LAWGIVER, an inconsistent sort who wins occasionally but is eminently beatable.
The pair pulled clear of KING’S CHORISTER who performed respectably from 3lbs out of handicap and is a consistent sort worthy of consideration if dropped in class. Lucy Alexander’s claim will be useful assuming she keeps the ride.
Keen going BORDER TALE led or disputed until giving way at the last, and while CLAUDE CARTER has gone close a few times he is essentially a weak finisher and needs things to fall right.
KNIGHT VALLIANT was pulled up before the last after bashing two out and his rider losing his irons, the saddle having slipped. He went well enough to that point and was in contention.
2.40 2m ½f Unwin Second Half Century Juvenile Hurdle (Class 4)
Lee Edwards stole this race on KIE who travelled from Wolverhampton for this engagement. He set off in front, was soon clear and nothing got near him. The time was a couple of seconds slower than the first race so it was at least respectable.
MICA MIKA kept on for second and made a sound enough hurdling bow. RESIDENCE AND SPA made it four frame finishes from five hurdles runs and might need to wait for the handicapper to slow others down before he can win.
Well backed LEXI’S BOY ran no sort of race, fading quickly after the fourth. I assume there was a problem though nothing appeared on the BHA website.
A forty minute gap allowed us to watch the Prix De L’Arc Triomphe on the big screen. Sadly only those with access to the colours had any idea of who was doing what. Black mark to the usually reliable Kelso executive since there was no commentary over the PA and no colours in the racecard. It’s easy to get the impression that racing from elsewhere is stuck on the screen just to fill the time.
3.20 3m 1f Isle Of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky Handicap Chase (86-115)
STAR BEAT is decent stayer on his day and proved too good for inferiors here. He got into contention from four out and picked off the leader after the last. A nine length win here will mean a move up in class is forced and life will be tougher.
COPPER’S GOLD ran a decent race in second, leading until the last and keeping on to finish a clear best of the rest. He did look in good nick, thrives when’s there’s cut in the ground and may still be capable of improvement.
ROSSINI’S DANCER made a bad mistake at the first and almost unseated. One or two slow jumps mid race didn’t help but he stayed on through the field form two out.
TREEHOUSE, an improver in 2009/2010, hinted at returning to form on his second run after a season off. He plugged on for fourth without threatening the leaders.
SOUBRIQUET gave way from two out and is difficult to catch right. Irish challenger dropped away from two out having made one or iffy jumps.
PRINCE MERANO looked rather lethargic in the paddock and struggled from a mile out, pulling up before four out.
NGONG HILLS ditched his rider at the first, but ran along enthusiastically with the field the rest of the way, which I rate as at least a sign of some interest.
3.55 2m 6 ½ f NSPCC School Service Intermediate Hurdle (Class 4)
Three of last season’s decent Scottish novices appeared in this event.
AIKMAN didn’t disgrace himself in decent company toward the end of last season and I suspect there is still a little more to come. He was presented looking very well by James Ewart, yet still giving the impression there was something left to work on. He pulled clear readily in the latter stages and will now be aimed at chasing, with a beginners’ event at Carlisle on October 20th the first target. He looks one who has been crying out to be jumping fences and is an exciting prospect.
ARCTIC COURT progressed last season and turned into a decent handicapper. He was another who looked as if the race might bring on and he was unable to match the winner from the last, hanging toward the inside rail under pressure. A sound debut on which he should build upon in the coming weeks.
THE STARBOARD BOW was stepped up in trip here. He didn’t jump particularly cleanly and had nothing left in the tank from the last. He can jump better than this and will see out the trip properly.
AFRICAN FLORA was hopelessly outclassed but Kenny Johnson concentrated on getting her round for fourth prize money on here hurdling debut without taxing her unduly.
4.25 2m 2f Alexandra Carrington Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Div 1) (62-95)
The theory that low prize money is causing owners to desert the sport suffered a hole below the waterline as 29 were declared for this event racing for ‘take home prize money’ of £1238. The race was split into two heats and one runner was eliminated. We lost a few due to the change in the going, but plenty are willing to run horses regardless of reward, which suggests it’s viewed as a fun pursuit. Certainly my own very minor involvement in ownership is on ‘money I expect to lose’ basis.
Neither event was particular exciting with two groups of underachievers. ENDEAVOR led three out and was all out in the latter stages to hold BARLIFFEY. The second would not be the most committed to the job, and the rest were held with NISAAL and CARTERS REST doing no more than plug on at one pace to fill the frame.
5.00 2m 2f Alexandra Carrington Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (Div 1) (61-94)
Episode 2 was won by THE DUNION from the yard of Bonchester Bridge trainer Rob Macdonald. Again this was a poor contest, but Macdonald had his contender nicely fit and Campbell Gillies rode a decent race from the front group. The winner responded well when asked from two out and shows enough to suggest there may be another little race for him along the line.
DRAMATIC JEWEL couldn’t make any impression in the final furlong and is basically a very moderate performer. Maiden under both codes TINSELTOWN stayed on under pressure for third.
SYDNEY COVE has proved very headstrong and was restrained in the rear. He picked up some ground in the latter stages and may get competitive once he learns to settle. He’s better than his bare jumps form suggests.
5.30 2m 6 ½ f Radio Borders Handicap Chase (60-95)
SUPER ALLY improved on previous chasing efforts and won this comfortably, pulling clear on the run-in. His probable serious rival whacked the last and the second was 9lbs shy in the handicap so I suspect this wasn’t up to much and that the contest fell into the winner’s lap.
BARRY THE CRACKER ran as well as might be expected for one rated only 60. He doesn’t impress in the paddock, walking rather stiffly, but tried gamely during the race. He led or disputed for much of the way and was only collared from the last.
SOME CATCH had every chance until thumping the last and not recovering. Her form offers more encouragement than some in this race and she would likely have given the winner more to do if not stopped in her tracks. She is worthy of consideration in similar company.
NIFTY ROY raced prominently until fading from three out. He was reported lame at the finish.
FRONTIER BOY looks a nice chasing type, but he made two many errors and lost touch in the final mile. The race will have brought him on.
GUNS AND BUTTER went wrong after three out and was swiftly pulled up. On an optimistic note the screens weren’t put up and he was walked into the horse ambulance.
WATERSKI attracted some interest in the market and looked plenty fit enough. He was well behind when pulling up. A bandage had come loose on his hind leg and surprised me that nobody attended to this when he was brought back to unsaddle, the bandage still flapping loose as he was led away to the stables.
LINDSEYFIELD LODGE, twice a winner around here, jumped poorly and never took a huge amount of interest. He’ll probably pop up at a fancy price when he feels up to, but when that will be is anyone’s guess.
6.00 2m ½ f City Roofing Ltd Standard Open NH Flat Race
No races get my pen and notebook going better than a Kelso bumper and once again there were numerous encouraging signs.
THE WEATHERMAN had run well enough here previously and sprinted clear from the ‘two pole’ for a comfortable victory. He’s not one in the normal McCain mould, being fairly small, but he shifts a bit and looks a decent prospect for hurdling.
MITCHELL’S WAY, hailing from the Swinbank yard who are often in the mix in these events, pulled hard early on but was still bang there two out. He kept without threatening the winner but will find easier opportunities.
Irish pointing winner BAWN REAGH, well regarded at Lucinda Russell’s Arlary Stables, set a steady pace and kept on under pressure to take third. He was reported sore after the race, but showed enough to suggest he will be a winner in time. He was just in front of stablemate RHYMERS HA’ who pulled very hard but is going the right way.
Mares’ bumper winner GROOVY DANCER wasn’t totally disgraced in fifth and will find easier opportunities against her own sex.
A couple of others well down the field caught eye. CALL IT OUT is a steeplechasing type but he’s only four and will need time to mature. His first two runs read as poor form but he may leave those efforts behind in time.
DARK EXILE was last, but he was never going to excel in a race where they only started racing from the mile marker. He’s an impressive chasing type who will surely show better than this run given time.
WILL BE MINE is another who should make a jumper in time. He was left behind from three furlongs out here.
Hexham – September 30th
OUTLAW TOM appeared at Hexham a couple of days earlier and pleased connections in staying on for third in a 3m 1f novices’ chase, beaten about 10 lengths. MAJESTIC MAYHEM ran a sound race in second and looks a good measure, while the winner LACKAMON is worth noting as one who could go on to better things over jumps.
Staying chasers EYRE SQUARE and SIMPLY SMASHING fought out a stirring battle in the 3m novices’ hurdle. No lack of commitment from either who go into the autumn campaign in good heart.
FRITH won the Class 5 two mile handicap chase off a mark of 68. He’s very well treated no his best form and might be placed to pick up a race or two more.
Carlisle – October 7th
The new hurdles course was used for the first time. HOUSTON DYNIMO won the novices hurdle to become the first winner around the circuit. The hurdles track is inside the chase track and noticeably sharper than the outer track used previously. It might just end being a bit of a specialist’s track as it mixes sharpness with a stiff finish.
HUMBIE stayed on to win the Class 4 handicap chase. I’ve liked this one for a while and he might make a mark in a higher class and he saw out this thee mile trip nicely. The story is that he is often taken out for trips in his horsebox to keep his mind occupied as he is a bit of a worrier!
STRONGBOWS LEGEND held every chance and kept on for second. He pulled clear of the rest and it would be a surprise if Charlie Longsdon couldn’t find a race for him.
NGONG HILLS made up for his Kelso mishap, being bang there most of the way and keeping on for third if held by the first two. His trainer has room for manoeuvre off his current mark of 97.
The two and a half mile novices’ chase at this meeting can be informative, but we lost three at the seventh fence. However, the winner TIME FOR SPRING looks to have a bit of scope as a chaser, and those behind him, BALLYCOLIN and ROLECARR created a sound enough impression. BALLYCOLIN will show up better when moved up in trip.
James Ewart has started the season in decent fashion and QUICUYO took the two mile handicap chase. A wind operation seems to have helped him and he is worth looking out for when racing at Ayr as he has a fine record there.
PETE won the conditional jockeys’ hurdle to give Lucy Alexander a first win as a professional. He was in front way too soon as horses either side fell away from two out, but his rider managed to coax more than expected to hold off fast finishing SOLWAY BLUE. The fact that PETE never wins by far does help as he doesn’t get harshly punished, is a good deal better than he sometimes cares to let on, and is ideally suited by a decent sized field where he can pick his way through late on.
Back in third SUPER BABY looked much happier than last season. He gave me the impression that he might have had a back problem last season. He jumped neatly in front here and battled back late on to take third place having been outpaced form two out. He certainly doesn’t look overweighted off a mark of 95.
BARLIFFEY had every chance approaching the last but jumped it very slowly and couldn’t get back into the race. He’s in good form but likely to prove difficult to win with.
Saturday, 24 September 2011
Perth Grand Finale + A few bits and pieces
Ayr Western Meeting
Work and family commitments kept me away from the Ayr Western Meeting and I wasn’t able to pick up an awful lot on TV either.
Om the first day Scottish yards scored twice, Keith Dalgleish continuing a good season when win in turn performer HINTON ADMIRAL picked up a Class 5 five furlong event. The dual purpose yard of Alistair Whillans won later in the card with SCRAPPER SMITH in the Class 2 Kilkerran Cup Handicap. Five pound claimer Julie Burke is in demand these days and did a sound job in the saddle.
Our Jonathon stepped up on a decent Goodwood effort to take the Ayr Gold Cup in testing going, The going won’t have helped many and there will be a few runs which can be ignored. ETON RIFLES put up another good effort to finish second and is worth considering while the ground is on the soft side. He will probably be brought out a time or two more before season’s close.
ZAKREET bolstered Newcastle maiden form by winning the opening nursery on the Saturday and Newcastle fourth Never Perfect’s next run could be worth a glance. He holds at entry at Newcastle this coming Wednesday the 28th.
LEXINGTON BAY won well in the closing event and may have a bit still in hand in staying handicaps.
A morning at Arlary Stables
Lucinda Russell welcomed Milnathort Racing Club and Tay Valley Chasers members to an open day on Sunday 18th September. Russell goes into this season with her string nearing 100 in strength, most at Arlary with an overspill yard at Kilduff a mile or two away.
It must be a long time since Scotland had two chasers rated 150+, let alone two in the stable, but with the arrival of TCHICO POLOS (rated 157) she now has a performer to rival stable star SILVER BY NATURE (159).
TCHICO POLOS will be aimed first at the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter in early November. His next outing after that is likely to be a race which has been framed to accommodate him at Ayr toward the end of November. Some at the Nicholls yard apparently questioned whether there would be opportunities if the horse were based in Scotland but, with a ‘have horse will travel’ attitude and co-operative local tracks, Lucinda Russell should get some profitable mileage out of the newcomer.
SILVER BY NATURE goes for the Betfair Chase at Haydock first off with a trip to Leopardstown over Christmas a possibility. He will only run in soft or heavy ground and may be capable of surprising a few people when given the right conditions.
I have a small interest in OUTLAW TOM who is entered at Hexham this coming Friday. It’s a novice chase and there may be one or two too good, but it’s a good course to get a novice settled and jumping, and there’s prize money down to fifth. There’s only twelve entered at the initial stage so he well earn some keep if just completing.
BLENHEIM BROOK is rated a good prospect over fences for the coming season. He improved steadily over the season last year and should come on for a fair second to Astracad at Perth this week.
Bumper winner NUTS N BOLTS joins the stable from Alan Swinbank. He was considered good enough to run in a decent event at Aintree on his third run and, even though well held there, should win a hurdle or two.
BAWN REAGH is an Irish point-to-point winner who should make up into a decent chaser given time. Another Irish pointing winner to watch out for is BLAZIN WHITE FACE, twice third to decent performers at Perth in bumpers and likely to be aimed at mares’ only events.
Two young horses to keep in mind for the future at BALLYBEN and MUMGOS DEBUT. Both are well rated by Tim Reed who does the prep work for the Russell yard. It’s early days yet but these two may be seen out in juvenile bumpers and have done everything asked of them to date.
CULCABOCK has served the stable well and notched up 8 wins in a 78 race career. His retirement was announced to us and he will be looked after by Jaimie Duff, Russell’s hard working assistant.
PERTH – Wednesday September 21st
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
The lower key day of Perth’s Glorious Finale Two Day meeting but one that may have thrown up a Cheltenham prospect. Morning rain cleared to give a sunny afternoon with a strong breeze directly behind in the straight. The ground was in excellent nick though some found it just a bit too tacky.
2.25 2m 4½f Edinburgh Gin Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)
There were really only two with a chance here, but MART LANE eased clear of his only rival so easily that it’s no that his trainer John Joseph ‘Shark’ Hanlon** already has this one earmarked for Cheltenham in March. A good winner of a bumper at Leopardstown in January, he got “bogged down in near unraceable ground” at the Curragh on his subsequent run. The plan is to take in decent novice events at Leopardstown to test him out. He’s a nice sort who will win much better events than this.
The winner was the first as a professional for Brian Hayes and should be the first of many.
HARD TO SWALLOW was well considered by Martin Keighley, but put in his place by a sharp opponent. He finished rather tired, but he still has some growing to do and
doesn’t seem the finished article. In time he is likely to prove decent.
WARANTS A NAME ended up tailed off in fifth. However it’s worth bearing in mind that he was the only one to take on the principles, and paid for that by weakening badly in the last mile. He has shown glimmers of ability and is likely to make a mark once handicapped.
FRONTIER LAD finished in front of something for the first time over hurdles in a distant third, with the slow looking BOSTON LAD well behind in fourth.
** The winning trainer has useful performer HIDDEN CYCLONE in his stable and rates that one a Gold Cup prospect. Only beaten once over hurdles, this one must surely be of great interest when appearing in novices’ chases in Ireland.
3.00 2m ½f Book Your Christmas Party At Perth Claiming Hurdle (Class 4)
ONE FOR JOULES challenged two out, led before the last and came clear on the flat to win a shade cosily, landing a double for Shark Hanlon in the process. The winner was claimed by Mr J L Flint for £10,000, so I presume he will now be running out of John Flint’s yard at Kenfig Hill near Bridgend.
Gordon Elliott’s FOOL’S WILDCAT has plenty of ability, and has won around here, but is rather too easily beaten.
BACCALAUREATE seems best in these events and sellers. He kept on under pressure for third without ever threatening. WHEATFROMTHECHAFF has been off her game recently and could make any impact once turned for home. LAKEMAN won despite jumping poorly at Cartmel. His jumping was totally clueless here and he was beaten turning for home.
3.35 2m 4½f Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer Novices’ Handicap Chase (98-113)
QUITE THE MAN was settled nicely toward the rear on his chasing debut. He jumped accurately, working his way into contention approaching the last and wearing down the leader on the run to the line. He is tall, nice looking gelding and should go on from here over fences.
THE COCKNEY MACKEM was making his chasing debut having fallen here over hurdles on his last run back in April. He jumped well enough and pushed on four out. From my position by the last I could see he was coming to the end of his tether, pecking a little on landing and not able to resist the winner’s challenge close home. This was a good debut however, and he should win chases.
BALNAGORE ran prominently or disputing until thumping four out and he couldn’t get back to the leaders after that. This was a fair effort though his jumping does let him down at key points in the race. OTTO QUERCUS’s jumping was laboured for much of the way and he never threatened to take a part in the finish.
THE PADDY PREMIUM went well enough up front until headed four out. He then weakened and unseated after getting thump from Otto Quercus two out. SKY CALLING raced two keenly and was a spent force before four out, pulling up before two out.
4.10 2m ½f Hogmanay Party At Perth Racecourse Juvenile Hurdle (Class 4)
THE ICE FACTOR, a winner of a hurdle at Tramore, put experience to good use here. He led, wound up the pace down the far side and nothing got to him in the straight. Chances are he’ll pick up another hurdle or two before decent horses come out.
PRINCE FREDDIE made an encouraging debut in second. He never got the leader but kept on for second, just ahead of RED RIVERMAN who kept on at his own pace in third. Previous winner COOL NEWPORT found this tougher going than her debut race at Ffos Las. NAY SECRET was struggling a long way but stayed on a bit late on. He might improve on a stiffer track.
4.45 3m Sodexo Prestige Handicap Chase (For the Duke Of Atholl Challenge Cup) (90-120)
This looked quite a competitive event, but POWER PACK JACK was able to make all and stayed on to good effect down the straight. He hit a couple including the second last but held enough in reserve.
ST KILLIAN’S RUN, blinkered for the first time, chased the leader from four out but never got to him.
BESCOT SPRINGS and ROSSINI’S DANCER showed enough here to suggest they can land a steeplechase this season. They were both held from three out but ran well enough after a layoff.
SUPREME BUILDER weakened in the straight having raced in midfield fro much of the way. SOUBRIQUET, last year’s winner, looked as well as I can remember, but was struggling before four out. He wins only in his turn but is below his last winning chase mark.
Of the rest BOB’S TICKET jumped poorly and eventually Adam Nicol at the twelfth. RESTORATION looked well enough, and is an impressive sort, but never got into the race and was well detached when pulling up three out. FLOREANA was out of her depth here on Lucy Alexander made her professional debut, apparently making her the first professional jump jockey from Scotland.
5.20 3m ½f SIS Handicap Hurdle (110-135)
The highest grade event on the card and won with ease by LOS NADIS. Henry Brooke judged the pace to a tee here, leading then winding things up in the last mile. Nothing got close to him from three out. He’s sure to go up a fair way for a 23 length win and his rating is likely to be high 130s which will push him at least a grade higher. That being said this was a second decent win here on the trot and in this form he’s worth a go in better company. When he first started hurdling his jumping technique let him down, but his jumping ability is now such that he jumps fields at this level into submission.
SNAKE CHARMER stayed on from two out with no hope of catching the winner, but he was well clear of the remainder. DEVOTION TO DUTY plugged on for third but was beaten 40 lengths+.
MIRAGE DORE looked well enough after a layoff, but was well behind from three out.
PERTH – Thursday September 22nd
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
2.20 3m ½f Edinburgh Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)
MANGER HANAGEMENT was never in great difficulty as he made it four in a row, paying testament to Gordon Elliott’s placement of his horses.
WHAT A WARRIOR was eased in once clearly held from two out. Sam Twiston-Davies did well to keep him on track when he veered toward the exit on the first bend, cannily tucking him behind others next time round.
2.55 2m ½f Maersk Oil Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)
The country’s most northerly placed licensed trainer, Sue Bradburne, might have a fair hurdler on her hands in JET MASTER. He left two previous winners behind with ease from two out in the style of one who can move up in grade. This could be an exciting prospect for the future.
ESPERAO was held after two out having led until that flight but seemed to run to form, while 139 rated REDERA never looked entirely happy and was held form three out.
STAGS LEAP gave a hint of ability but felt the pinch from three out.
3.30 2m ½f Timothy Hardie Jewellers Novices’ Chase (Class 4)
This could turn out to have been a fair novices’ chase since I know that the stable of the second rate him as a chasing prospect.
ASTRACAD raced close up and forged clear from two out. After a promising start as a hurdler he was given some tough asks in Graded novice company. He certainly looks a decent chaser though, jumping very nicely here and is likely to win a few races.
BLENHEIM BROOK couldn’t match the winner from two out, but his jumping was accurate enough and he won’t always run into one as good as the winner. He will win chases and was well clear of BOCCIANI who jumped well enough but found the company too good.
UNCLE TAFFY was well held in fourth while FOOL’S WILDCAT blundered his rider away at the eleventh as the pace picked up.
Favourite CHAMPION COURT didn’t settle, was less than foot perfect and blundered AP McCoy out of the saddle three out.
4.05 2m 4 ½f George Stubbs Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (84-110)
WHAT AN OSCAR stayed on from two out to land another contest for Twiston-Davies and Son. The Gloucestershire trainer has relinquished his top Perth trainer to Gordon Elliott in recent times, but still saves a few for the far north.
FUNKY MUNKY made steady headway from two out and pressed the winner to the line. This was by far his best effort over hurdles and he would be interesting dropped in class. NORTHERN ACRES held every chance, leading from three out until the last, but couldn’t raise his game any further.
Most eye-catching effort came from PAPAMOA in fourth. I’ve got this on horses to follow list on The Racing Forum and I was well pleased with his effort here. He was outpaced a little after three out but kept on under pressure all the way up the straight, still closing at the line. He needs softer ground and probably a stiffer track and I’m sure he’ll win a novice handicap before long.
4.40 2m ½ f Anderson Anderson & Brown Handicap Hurdle (96-115)
QUITO DU TRESOR took advantage of a generous handicap mark 15lbs less than his chase mark to win this nicely. He led all the way and held enough in hand to win unchallenged. He’s in good heart and should remain competitive in decent handicap chase company.
CADEAUX FAX kept on well enough for second and should gain compensation. ARISEA came from well back to take third place but is well exposed.
5.15 2m 4½f Handicap Chase
THE PANAMA KID seemed well suited by the turning track here and doesn’t seem likely to be especially well treated after a clear win. He raced up with the pace and stayed on from two out
THE DISENGAGER ran creditably in second after a long layoff.
PROSECCO had been distinctly uncooperative when schooling in front of owners on Sunday. He was much better over the obstacles here but had to be niggled on the home turn and couldn’t make an impact from that point. Keep him in mind at Ayr since he’s 2111 from four runs there.
Most of those behind are exposed and didn’t offer immediate encouragement.
5.50 2m ½f Open NH Flat
SIR JOHNSON, a winner of two previously, had this in safe keeping form two out. He should be plenty good enough to win over hurdles.
LUCIA BAY is more of a long term prospect but a second placed bumper effort augurs well. He’s got a nice jumping pedigree and his hurdles debut is eagerly awaited.
PEG LEG and SUN CLOUD kept on without threatening the first two.
Newmarket – Cambridgeshire
Nice to see that versatile perfomer NANTON running a stormer in the Newmarket handicap, staying on relentlessly up the hill for fourth, no more than two or three inches from landing second. Having been a close second over 1m 6½f the previous time, I presume he will be back at Newmarket for the Cesarewitch. This animal must be an absolute dream for Jim Goldie to have in the stable and who’s to say he won’t be involved in the finish of the stayers’ event?
Work and family commitments kept me away from the Ayr Western Meeting and I wasn’t able to pick up an awful lot on TV either.
Om the first day Scottish yards scored twice, Keith Dalgleish continuing a good season when win in turn performer HINTON ADMIRAL picked up a Class 5 five furlong event. The dual purpose yard of Alistair Whillans won later in the card with SCRAPPER SMITH in the Class 2 Kilkerran Cup Handicap. Five pound claimer Julie Burke is in demand these days and did a sound job in the saddle.
Our Jonathon stepped up on a decent Goodwood effort to take the Ayr Gold Cup in testing going, The going won’t have helped many and there will be a few runs which can be ignored. ETON RIFLES put up another good effort to finish second and is worth considering while the ground is on the soft side. He will probably be brought out a time or two more before season’s close.
ZAKREET bolstered Newcastle maiden form by winning the opening nursery on the Saturday and Newcastle fourth Never Perfect’s next run could be worth a glance. He holds at entry at Newcastle this coming Wednesday the 28th.
LEXINGTON BAY won well in the closing event and may have a bit still in hand in staying handicaps.
A morning at Arlary Stables
Lucinda Russell welcomed Milnathort Racing Club and Tay Valley Chasers members to an open day on Sunday 18th September. Russell goes into this season with her string nearing 100 in strength, most at Arlary with an overspill yard at Kilduff a mile or two away.
It must be a long time since Scotland had two chasers rated 150+, let alone two in the stable, but with the arrival of TCHICO POLOS (rated 157) she now has a performer to rival stable star SILVER BY NATURE (159).
TCHICO POLOS will be aimed first at the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter in early November. His next outing after that is likely to be a race which has been framed to accommodate him at Ayr toward the end of November. Some at the Nicholls yard apparently questioned whether there would be opportunities if the horse were based in Scotland but, with a ‘have horse will travel’ attitude and co-operative local tracks, Lucinda Russell should get some profitable mileage out of the newcomer.
SILVER BY NATURE goes for the Betfair Chase at Haydock first off with a trip to Leopardstown over Christmas a possibility. He will only run in soft or heavy ground and may be capable of surprising a few people when given the right conditions.
I have a small interest in OUTLAW TOM who is entered at Hexham this coming Friday. It’s a novice chase and there may be one or two too good, but it’s a good course to get a novice settled and jumping, and there’s prize money down to fifth. There’s only twelve entered at the initial stage so he well earn some keep if just completing.
BLENHEIM BROOK is rated a good prospect over fences for the coming season. He improved steadily over the season last year and should come on for a fair second to Astracad at Perth this week.
Bumper winner NUTS N BOLTS joins the stable from Alan Swinbank. He was considered good enough to run in a decent event at Aintree on his third run and, even though well held there, should win a hurdle or two.
BAWN REAGH is an Irish point-to-point winner who should make up into a decent chaser given time. Another Irish pointing winner to watch out for is BLAZIN WHITE FACE, twice third to decent performers at Perth in bumpers and likely to be aimed at mares’ only events.
Two young horses to keep in mind for the future at BALLYBEN and MUMGOS DEBUT. Both are well rated by Tim Reed who does the prep work for the Russell yard. It’s early days yet but these two may be seen out in juvenile bumpers and have done everything asked of them to date.
CULCABOCK has served the stable well and notched up 8 wins in a 78 race career. His retirement was announced to us and he will be looked after by Jaimie Duff, Russell’s hard working assistant.
PERTH – Wednesday September 21st
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
The lower key day of Perth’s Glorious Finale Two Day meeting but one that may have thrown up a Cheltenham prospect. Morning rain cleared to give a sunny afternoon with a strong breeze directly behind in the straight. The ground was in excellent nick though some found it just a bit too tacky.
2.25 2m 4½f Edinburgh Gin Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)
There were really only two with a chance here, but MART LANE eased clear of his only rival so easily that it’s no that his trainer John Joseph ‘Shark’ Hanlon** already has this one earmarked for Cheltenham in March. A good winner of a bumper at Leopardstown in January, he got “bogged down in near unraceable ground” at the Curragh on his subsequent run. The plan is to take in decent novice events at Leopardstown to test him out. He’s a nice sort who will win much better events than this.
The winner was the first as a professional for Brian Hayes and should be the first of many.
HARD TO SWALLOW was well considered by Martin Keighley, but put in his place by a sharp opponent. He finished rather tired, but he still has some growing to do and
doesn’t seem the finished article. In time he is likely to prove decent.
WARANTS A NAME ended up tailed off in fifth. However it’s worth bearing in mind that he was the only one to take on the principles, and paid for that by weakening badly in the last mile. He has shown glimmers of ability and is likely to make a mark once handicapped.
FRONTIER LAD finished in front of something for the first time over hurdles in a distant third, with the slow looking BOSTON LAD well behind in fourth.
** The winning trainer has useful performer HIDDEN CYCLONE in his stable and rates that one a Gold Cup prospect. Only beaten once over hurdles, this one must surely be of great interest when appearing in novices’ chases in Ireland.
3.00 2m ½f Book Your Christmas Party At Perth Claiming Hurdle (Class 4)
ONE FOR JOULES challenged two out, led before the last and came clear on the flat to win a shade cosily, landing a double for Shark Hanlon in the process. The winner was claimed by Mr J L Flint for £10,000, so I presume he will now be running out of John Flint’s yard at Kenfig Hill near Bridgend.
Gordon Elliott’s FOOL’S WILDCAT has plenty of ability, and has won around here, but is rather too easily beaten.
BACCALAUREATE seems best in these events and sellers. He kept on under pressure for third without ever threatening. WHEATFROMTHECHAFF has been off her game recently and could make any impact once turned for home. LAKEMAN won despite jumping poorly at Cartmel. His jumping was totally clueless here and he was beaten turning for home.
3.35 2m 4½f Crabbie’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer Novices’ Handicap Chase (98-113)
QUITE THE MAN was settled nicely toward the rear on his chasing debut. He jumped accurately, working his way into contention approaching the last and wearing down the leader on the run to the line. He is tall, nice looking gelding and should go on from here over fences.
THE COCKNEY MACKEM was making his chasing debut having fallen here over hurdles on his last run back in April. He jumped well enough and pushed on four out. From my position by the last I could see he was coming to the end of his tether, pecking a little on landing and not able to resist the winner’s challenge close home. This was a good debut however, and he should win chases.
BALNAGORE ran prominently or disputing until thumping four out and he couldn’t get back to the leaders after that. This was a fair effort though his jumping does let him down at key points in the race. OTTO QUERCUS’s jumping was laboured for much of the way and he never threatened to take a part in the finish.
THE PADDY PREMIUM went well enough up front until headed four out. He then weakened and unseated after getting thump from Otto Quercus two out. SKY CALLING raced two keenly and was a spent force before four out, pulling up before two out.
4.10 2m ½f Hogmanay Party At Perth Racecourse Juvenile Hurdle (Class 4)
THE ICE FACTOR, a winner of a hurdle at Tramore, put experience to good use here. He led, wound up the pace down the far side and nothing got to him in the straight. Chances are he’ll pick up another hurdle or two before decent horses come out.
PRINCE FREDDIE made an encouraging debut in second. He never got the leader but kept on for second, just ahead of RED RIVERMAN who kept on at his own pace in third. Previous winner COOL NEWPORT found this tougher going than her debut race at Ffos Las. NAY SECRET was struggling a long way but stayed on a bit late on. He might improve on a stiffer track.
4.45 3m Sodexo Prestige Handicap Chase (For the Duke Of Atholl Challenge Cup) (90-120)
This looked quite a competitive event, but POWER PACK JACK was able to make all and stayed on to good effect down the straight. He hit a couple including the second last but held enough in reserve.
ST KILLIAN’S RUN, blinkered for the first time, chased the leader from four out but never got to him.
BESCOT SPRINGS and ROSSINI’S DANCER showed enough here to suggest they can land a steeplechase this season. They were both held from three out but ran well enough after a layoff.
SUPREME BUILDER weakened in the straight having raced in midfield fro much of the way. SOUBRIQUET, last year’s winner, looked as well as I can remember, but was struggling before four out. He wins only in his turn but is below his last winning chase mark.
Of the rest BOB’S TICKET jumped poorly and eventually Adam Nicol at the twelfth. RESTORATION looked well enough, and is an impressive sort, but never got into the race and was well detached when pulling up three out. FLOREANA was out of her depth here on Lucy Alexander made her professional debut, apparently making her the first professional jump jockey from Scotland.
5.20 3m ½f SIS Handicap Hurdle (110-135)
The highest grade event on the card and won with ease by LOS NADIS. Henry Brooke judged the pace to a tee here, leading then winding things up in the last mile. Nothing got close to him from three out. He’s sure to go up a fair way for a 23 length win and his rating is likely to be high 130s which will push him at least a grade higher. That being said this was a second decent win here on the trot and in this form he’s worth a go in better company. When he first started hurdling his jumping technique let him down, but his jumping ability is now such that he jumps fields at this level into submission.
SNAKE CHARMER stayed on from two out with no hope of catching the winner, but he was well clear of the remainder. DEVOTION TO DUTY plugged on for third but was beaten 40 lengths+.
MIRAGE DORE looked well enough after a layoff, but was well behind from three out.
PERTH – Thursday September 22nd
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
2.20 3m ½f Edinburgh Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)
MANGER HANAGEMENT was never in great difficulty as he made it four in a row, paying testament to Gordon Elliott’s placement of his horses.
WHAT A WARRIOR was eased in once clearly held from two out. Sam Twiston-Davies did well to keep him on track when he veered toward the exit on the first bend, cannily tucking him behind others next time round.
2.55 2m ½f Maersk Oil Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)
The country’s most northerly placed licensed trainer, Sue Bradburne, might have a fair hurdler on her hands in JET MASTER. He left two previous winners behind with ease from two out in the style of one who can move up in grade. This could be an exciting prospect for the future.
ESPERAO was held after two out having led until that flight but seemed to run to form, while 139 rated REDERA never looked entirely happy and was held form three out.
STAGS LEAP gave a hint of ability but felt the pinch from three out.
3.30 2m ½f Timothy Hardie Jewellers Novices’ Chase (Class 4)
This could turn out to have been a fair novices’ chase since I know that the stable of the second rate him as a chasing prospect.
ASTRACAD raced close up and forged clear from two out. After a promising start as a hurdler he was given some tough asks in Graded novice company. He certainly looks a decent chaser though, jumping very nicely here and is likely to win a few races.
BLENHEIM BROOK couldn’t match the winner from two out, but his jumping was accurate enough and he won’t always run into one as good as the winner. He will win chases and was well clear of BOCCIANI who jumped well enough but found the company too good.
UNCLE TAFFY was well held in fourth while FOOL’S WILDCAT blundered his rider away at the eleventh as the pace picked up.
Favourite CHAMPION COURT didn’t settle, was less than foot perfect and blundered AP McCoy out of the saddle three out.
4.05 2m 4 ½f George Stubbs Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (84-110)
WHAT AN OSCAR stayed on from two out to land another contest for Twiston-Davies and Son. The Gloucestershire trainer has relinquished his top Perth trainer to Gordon Elliott in recent times, but still saves a few for the far north.
FUNKY MUNKY made steady headway from two out and pressed the winner to the line. This was by far his best effort over hurdles and he would be interesting dropped in class. NORTHERN ACRES held every chance, leading from three out until the last, but couldn’t raise his game any further.
Most eye-catching effort came from PAPAMOA in fourth. I’ve got this on horses to follow list on The Racing Forum and I was well pleased with his effort here. He was outpaced a little after three out but kept on under pressure all the way up the straight, still closing at the line. He needs softer ground and probably a stiffer track and I’m sure he’ll win a novice handicap before long.
4.40 2m ½ f Anderson Anderson & Brown Handicap Hurdle (96-115)
QUITO DU TRESOR took advantage of a generous handicap mark 15lbs less than his chase mark to win this nicely. He led all the way and held enough in hand to win unchallenged. He’s in good heart and should remain competitive in decent handicap chase company.
CADEAUX FAX kept on well enough for second and should gain compensation. ARISEA came from well back to take third place but is well exposed.
5.15 2m 4½f Handicap Chase
THE PANAMA KID seemed well suited by the turning track here and doesn’t seem likely to be especially well treated after a clear win. He raced up with the pace and stayed on from two out
THE DISENGAGER ran creditably in second after a long layoff.
PROSECCO had been distinctly uncooperative when schooling in front of owners on Sunday. He was much better over the obstacles here but had to be niggled on the home turn and couldn’t make an impact from that point. Keep him in mind at Ayr since he’s 2111 from four runs there.
Most of those behind are exposed and didn’t offer immediate encouragement.
5.50 2m ½f Open NH Flat
SIR JOHNSON, a winner of two previously, had this in safe keeping form two out. He should be plenty good enough to win over hurdles.
LUCIA BAY is more of a long term prospect but a second placed bumper effort augurs well. He’s got a nice jumping pedigree and his hurdles debut is eagerly awaited.
PEG LEG and SUN CLOUD kept on without threatening the first two.
Newmarket – Cambridgeshire
Nice to see that versatile perfomer NANTON running a stormer in the Newmarket handicap, staying on relentlessly up the hill for fourth, no more than two or three inches from landing second. Having been a close second over 1m 6½f the previous time, I presume he will be back at Newmarket for the Cesarewitch. This animal must be an absolute dream for Jim Goldie to have in the stable and who’s to say he won’t be involved in the finish of the stayers’ event?
Sunday, 4 September 2011
Betfair Scottish Champions Day
MUSSELBURGH – Saturday September 3rd
Going – Good (Good/Soft in places in the straight)
Musselburgh’s Betfair Scottish Champions Day proved to be a great success with competitive fields and a decent crowd. All the finals and consolation races filled to capacity and I’m sure there’s sufficient encouragement for Scottish Racing, and presumably Betfair, to continue this Series next year.
2.35 5f Betfair Sprint Series Consolation Handicap (50-65)
All the runners here were well exposed and at this level it’s often a question of which one gets it right on the day. MONTE MAYOR ONE proved a surprise winner, though nibbled at in the market, and won with a bit to spare to open the day with a Scottish trained winner. He looked as well as she has done for some time, having not sparkled in three efforts this season, but as with some fillies it could just be the time of year. Coming through off a fast pace, she led inside the final furlong and was forging clear by the finish. She’s certainly capable of adding to this victory if she can be kept sweet. It’s possibly significant that this race was run a shade quicker than the following 66-82 contest.
DISTANT SUN, another who hasn’t set the track alight of late, ran on in the final furlong to take second. His overall record of 6 wins and 11 places from 59 isn’t bad and does suggest one who can win once he’s right. The race fell right for a place here as he picked his way through having been outpaced early on.
BALLARINA ran creditably from the front, disputing the lead until having no more to give inside the final furlong. She mixed it with previously progressive IRISH BOY who was burst at the furlong pole and faded to fifth.
SAXONETTE kept on for fourth without ever seriously threatening, but seems high in the handicap at the moment on a mark of 65.
*Race trivia (blame Derek Thompson): Winning rider Duran Fentiman was named after boxer Roberto Duran.
3.05 5f Betfair Sprint Series Final Handicap (66-82)
A competitive event with many of these having recorded victories this term.
The winner INGLEBY STAR has run some decent races during a busy campaign, now boasting a career tally of 10 wins and 15 places. He was taken down to start very steadily a while after the rest, and went into the stalls very late. Always handy, he took over a furlong out and forged clear to win with a bit in hand. This is his highest winning mark to date.
WICKED WILMA has been in cracking form and ran another stormer to fill second place off a career high mark of 73. She is another who has provided sound returns for her owners over the years and has done them proud this year in particular. It’s nice to know such performers have a chance to pitch for decent prize money in this contest.
ROTHESAY CHANCER, outpaced and in arrears in at halfway, stormed through the pack in the final two furlongs to take third. His form dipped a little after a storming start to the season, but I suspect he may still have a bit more improvement in him given another year. He looks a fine sort in the parade ring and was well turned out here.
IGOYOUGO stayed on in the final furlong, a great improvement on recent efforts. He was in decent form last backend and might be the ‘quiet one’ to take forward from this event, particularly given that he mark with allow him to be targeted at a lower class.
TADALAVIL kept on for fifth on the tails of the placed horses and ran a sound enough race.
DOC HAY is a big animal who probably found this five furlongs just too sharp. He dwelt at the start and never got into the race, but I’d forgive him the run when encountering a stiffer track.
*Race trivia: Winning rider Justin Newman is a nephew of Royston Ffrench –
North’s verdict: he looks good enough to make a decent impact in the next few years.
3.40 1m Betfair Mile Series Consolation Handicap (57-64)
The leaders went quickly here and the first three benefitted from being waited with. Half a dozen ranged up with a chance approaching the two furlong pole. JUST THE TONIC disputed the running at that point and forged ahead in the final furlong. The second fought back but she had enough in hand, though doesn’t stand out as particularly progressive.
MILITARY CALL headed the field briefly approaching the final furlong and battled well if held by Just The Tonic. He was favoured by the way the race was run, though you couldn’t fault his attitude.
SOCIAL RHYTHM kept on for third though was held in the final furlong. This was his best effort of the season, a pleasing result for dual purpose Hawick trainer Alistair Whillans who saddled second and third.
EMERALDS SPIRIT performed creditably given that he chased the leaders from the start. Understandably he was held from before the furlong pole but stuck at it to the line.
ISHEFORREAL came from well behind to fill sixth place. This one is a big animal who still looks raw and will never be one to do things in a hurry. He certainly needs a stiffer track than this, he’s not built to handle the tight top bend, but may reward followers given time. He had a couple of bumper outings and might conceivably be targeted at hurdles in the coming months. The alternative could be to target a race at Southwell as he’s out of an unraced daughter of a US Grade 2 winner.
Two pulled up, MANGHAM looked very well but went wrong early in the straight. I haven’t got any report of his condition. OLD ENGLISH appeared to have a tack problem as David Nolan had no irons from early on.
4.15 1m Betfair Mile Series Final Handicap (65-84)
FOCAIL EILE progressed from midfield to lead a furlong out and ran on well to the line. The Stewards Report form his last race said he was ‘unsuited by the good going’. I’m sorry Mr Ryan, but I don’t believe that, aversion to first time blinkers would be more plausible. That aside, he has won twice on heavy going and twice on the all-weather.
IMPERATOR AUGUSTUS wearing a bridle with plenty of bits and pieces on it (don’t you just love my technical jargon?), and accompanied by two handlers in the parade ring, ran a cracking race. Disputing the pace from the start, he repelled challengers in the straight but had no answer to the winner’s challenge. He’s run well on Polytrack before and Patrick Holmes should be able to place him to win again before long, even allowing for him not being straightforward.
SWIFTLY DONE stayed on from midfield for a never nearer third. Not a bad effort for one who appears to need a stiffer test.
SOLAR SPIRIT kept on for fourth but looks plenty high enough in the ratings.
I’M SUPER TOO was well held from three furlongs out. He pulled too hard and I suspect the track’s a bit sharp for him.
4.45 1m 5f Betfair Stayers Series Consolation Handicap (51-67)
THINK ITS ALL OVER is a strong impressive sort for this level. He’s done well on the Fibresand at Southwell and that suggests ‘stickability’, a quality he showed in spades from the front here. He led from the start, and kept finding a bit extra after being driven two and half furlongs out. Julie Camacho, on ‘stablegirl’ duty here as well as training, should find an opening at Southwell for this one.
The winner is cannily named as he’s by Tiznow, though I’m not sure it’s quite so well received in Scotland, and he runs in the ‘Rooster Booster silks’ of Terry Warner.
AMIR PASHA, one I found a little frustrating over hurdles if perfectly able on his day, chased the winner from two out to occupy second place. He’s been consistent this flat season.
POKFULHAM performed well over hurdles and on the flat this year, though ran a lack lustre race last time out. He kept on for third but never got in a blow at the leader. He remains in fair form and still doesn’t seem harshly handicapped off 65.
DANE COTTAGE, looking fit and on her toes in the paddock, ran on from the rear to take fourth place.
Few others got seriously involved in this contest.
5.15 1m 5f Betfair Stayers Series Final Handicap (67-78)
Jim Goldie scored a second win of the afternoon as JONNY DELTA confirmed previous promise. His staying power came into play as he forged clear of his field from two furlongs out. Lightly raced, he looks an interesting sort to take forward, both as a hurdling company in the winter and in better class on the flat.
MEETINGS MAN chased the winner in the closing stages but couldn’t make any impact. He’s consistent and a good measure.
LOS NADIS is well exposed but ran a sound race to finish third, staying on from two furlongs out, followed home by ZENNOR, a rangy filly who couldn’t impact on those in front in the last 300 yards.
UNKNOWN REBEL led until two out and then weakened. Initial verdict might be that the trip is too far, but I’m not sure and I reckon he’ll get the distance as he strengthens with time.
5.50 7f 30yds Betfair Bonus Scottish Racing Apprentice Handicap (46-66)
The youngsters took the stage in the closing contest and winning rider Jason Hart looks one with a decent future ahead of him. This wasn’t a great contest, but the winner CATALLOUT had gone close a couple of times and looked deserving of the win. He wore down the wandering Goninodaethat in the closing stages.
GONINODAETHAT drifted back and forth across the track under pressure and probably should have recorded a first win himself. This was a third placing in handicaps and he looks to have enough ability to land one before long, though he may require a more senior jockey aboard to sort him out.
Previous course and distance winner CHOOKIE AVON wasn’t far away in third, but was held in the final 100 yards.
The remainder were comfortably held.
For the notebook:
IGOYOUGO – when dropped in class
DOC HAY – needs a stiffer track than Musselburgh
ISHEFORREAL – may go hurdling, but worth an interest if aimed at Southwell’s Fibresand surface
JONNY DELTA – he should progress with experience and stays well
NEWCASTLE – Monday August 29th
The Bank Holiday ‘Blaydon Races’ card at Newcastle was disappointing and was suffering from lack of investment. This was decent card a few years but has been gradually downgraded in recent seasons, a pattern not untypical of all bar the top racing days at Gosforth Park.
The 7 furlong two-year-old maiden normally oftens fling up one or two of interest. I suspect the handicapper is likely to have the winner ZAKREET covered for nurseries. Favourite WARCROWN disappointed and couldn’t make an impact form two furlongs out, but he should strengthen with time and shouldn’t be written off. Another to note was tom Tate’s NEVER PERFECT who missed the break but put up some pleasing work in the closing stages to take fourth place. He will step up on this.
The form of the closing six furlong handicap will probably prove strong. Three were clear, LAYLA’S HERO, now back on a workable mark, asserted in the closing stages and can win again. Runner up LITTLE JIMMY ODSOX, a winner twice in three previous races, looks capable of adding to that tally before long. Previous winner SPINATRIX gives the form a solid look after finishing a close third.
CARTMEL – Monday August 29th
The Lakeland track closed their season as a packed house attended as is standard for this fixture.
COUNTRYWIDE FLAME won the four-year-old hurdle very easily and might well pick up another event or two before the season picks up in earnest. Other than that though there weren’t that many strong pointers to future races on this occasion.
Course specialists SOUL MAGIC and SCOTSWELL both scored on the day, making the tally 7 wins from just 11 runs this season for Borders trainer Harriet Graham.
Going – Good (Good/Soft in places in the straight)
Musselburgh’s Betfair Scottish Champions Day proved to be a great success with competitive fields and a decent crowd. All the finals and consolation races filled to capacity and I’m sure there’s sufficient encouragement for Scottish Racing, and presumably Betfair, to continue this Series next year.
2.35 5f Betfair Sprint Series Consolation Handicap (50-65)
All the runners here were well exposed and at this level it’s often a question of which one gets it right on the day. MONTE MAYOR ONE proved a surprise winner, though nibbled at in the market, and won with a bit to spare to open the day with a Scottish trained winner. He looked as well as she has done for some time, having not sparkled in three efforts this season, but as with some fillies it could just be the time of year. Coming through off a fast pace, she led inside the final furlong and was forging clear by the finish. She’s certainly capable of adding to this victory if she can be kept sweet. It’s possibly significant that this race was run a shade quicker than the following 66-82 contest.
DISTANT SUN, another who hasn’t set the track alight of late, ran on in the final furlong to take second. His overall record of 6 wins and 11 places from 59 isn’t bad and does suggest one who can win once he’s right. The race fell right for a place here as he picked his way through having been outpaced early on.
BALLARINA ran creditably from the front, disputing the lead until having no more to give inside the final furlong. She mixed it with previously progressive IRISH BOY who was burst at the furlong pole and faded to fifth.
SAXONETTE kept on for fourth without ever seriously threatening, but seems high in the handicap at the moment on a mark of 65.
*Race trivia (blame Derek Thompson): Winning rider Duran Fentiman was named after boxer Roberto Duran.
3.05 5f Betfair Sprint Series Final Handicap (66-82)
A competitive event with many of these having recorded victories this term.
The winner INGLEBY STAR has run some decent races during a busy campaign, now boasting a career tally of 10 wins and 15 places. He was taken down to start very steadily a while after the rest, and went into the stalls very late. Always handy, he took over a furlong out and forged clear to win with a bit in hand. This is his highest winning mark to date.
WICKED WILMA has been in cracking form and ran another stormer to fill second place off a career high mark of 73. She is another who has provided sound returns for her owners over the years and has done them proud this year in particular. It’s nice to know such performers have a chance to pitch for decent prize money in this contest.
ROTHESAY CHANCER, outpaced and in arrears in at halfway, stormed through the pack in the final two furlongs to take third. His form dipped a little after a storming start to the season, but I suspect he may still have a bit more improvement in him given another year. He looks a fine sort in the parade ring and was well turned out here.
IGOYOUGO stayed on in the final furlong, a great improvement on recent efforts. He was in decent form last backend and might be the ‘quiet one’ to take forward from this event, particularly given that he mark with allow him to be targeted at a lower class.
TADALAVIL kept on for fifth on the tails of the placed horses and ran a sound enough race.
DOC HAY is a big animal who probably found this five furlongs just too sharp. He dwelt at the start and never got into the race, but I’d forgive him the run when encountering a stiffer track.
*Race trivia: Winning rider Justin Newman is a nephew of Royston Ffrench –
North’s verdict: he looks good enough to make a decent impact in the next few years.
3.40 1m Betfair Mile Series Consolation Handicap (57-64)
The leaders went quickly here and the first three benefitted from being waited with. Half a dozen ranged up with a chance approaching the two furlong pole. JUST THE TONIC disputed the running at that point and forged ahead in the final furlong. The second fought back but she had enough in hand, though doesn’t stand out as particularly progressive.
MILITARY CALL headed the field briefly approaching the final furlong and battled well if held by Just The Tonic. He was favoured by the way the race was run, though you couldn’t fault his attitude.
SOCIAL RHYTHM kept on for third though was held in the final furlong. This was his best effort of the season, a pleasing result for dual purpose Hawick trainer Alistair Whillans who saddled second and third.
EMERALDS SPIRIT performed creditably given that he chased the leaders from the start. Understandably he was held from before the furlong pole but stuck at it to the line.
ISHEFORREAL came from well behind to fill sixth place. This one is a big animal who still looks raw and will never be one to do things in a hurry. He certainly needs a stiffer track than this, he’s not built to handle the tight top bend, but may reward followers given time. He had a couple of bumper outings and might conceivably be targeted at hurdles in the coming months. The alternative could be to target a race at Southwell as he’s out of an unraced daughter of a US Grade 2 winner.
Two pulled up, MANGHAM looked very well but went wrong early in the straight. I haven’t got any report of his condition. OLD ENGLISH appeared to have a tack problem as David Nolan had no irons from early on.
4.15 1m Betfair Mile Series Final Handicap (65-84)
FOCAIL EILE progressed from midfield to lead a furlong out and ran on well to the line. The Stewards Report form his last race said he was ‘unsuited by the good going’. I’m sorry Mr Ryan, but I don’t believe that, aversion to first time blinkers would be more plausible. That aside, he has won twice on heavy going and twice on the all-weather.
IMPERATOR AUGUSTUS wearing a bridle with plenty of bits and pieces on it (don’t you just love my technical jargon?), and accompanied by two handlers in the parade ring, ran a cracking race. Disputing the pace from the start, he repelled challengers in the straight but had no answer to the winner’s challenge. He’s run well on Polytrack before and Patrick Holmes should be able to place him to win again before long, even allowing for him not being straightforward.
SWIFTLY DONE stayed on from midfield for a never nearer third. Not a bad effort for one who appears to need a stiffer test.
SOLAR SPIRIT kept on for fourth but looks plenty high enough in the ratings.
I’M SUPER TOO was well held from three furlongs out. He pulled too hard and I suspect the track’s a bit sharp for him.
4.45 1m 5f Betfair Stayers Series Consolation Handicap (51-67)
THINK ITS ALL OVER is a strong impressive sort for this level. He’s done well on the Fibresand at Southwell and that suggests ‘stickability’, a quality he showed in spades from the front here. He led from the start, and kept finding a bit extra after being driven two and half furlongs out. Julie Camacho, on ‘stablegirl’ duty here as well as training, should find an opening at Southwell for this one.
The winner is cannily named as he’s by Tiznow, though I’m not sure it’s quite so well received in Scotland, and he runs in the ‘Rooster Booster silks’ of Terry Warner.
AMIR PASHA, one I found a little frustrating over hurdles if perfectly able on his day, chased the winner from two out to occupy second place. He’s been consistent this flat season.
POKFULHAM performed well over hurdles and on the flat this year, though ran a lack lustre race last time out. He kept on for third but never got in a blow at the leader. He remains in fair form and still doesn’t seem harshly handicapped off 65.
DANE COTTAGE, looking fit and on her toes in the paddock, ran on from the rear to take fourth place.
Few others got seriously involved in this contest.
5.15 1m 5f Betfair Stayers Series Final Handicap (67-78)
Jim Goldie scored a second win of the afternoon as JONNY DELTA confirmed previous promise. His staying power came into play as he forged clear of his field from two furlongs out. Lightly raced, he looks an interesting sort to take forward, both as a hurdling company in the winter and in better class on the flat.
MEETINGS MAN chased the winner in the closing stages but couldn’t make any impact. He’s consistent and a good measure.
LOS NADIS is well exposed but ran a sound race to finish third, staying on from two furlongs out, followed home by ZENNOR, a rangy filly who couldn’t impact on those in front in the last 300 yards.
UNKNOWN REBEL led until two out and then weakened. Initial verdict might be that the trip is too far, but I’m not sure and I reckon he’ll get the distance as he strengthens with time.
5.50 7f 30yds Betfair Bonus Scottish Racing Apprentice Handicap (46-66)
The youngsters took the stage in the closing contest and winning rider Jason Hart looks one with a decent future ahead of him. This wasn’t a great contest, but the winner CATALLOUT had gone close a couple of times and looked deserving of the win. He wore down the wandering Goninodaethat in the closing stages.
GONINODAETHAT drifted back and forth across the track under pressure and probably should have recorded a first win himself. This was a third placing in handicaps and he looks to have enough ability to land one before long, though he may require a more senior jockey aboard to sort him out.
Previous course and distance winner CHOOKIE AVON wasn’t far away in third, but was held in the final 100 yards.
The remainder were comfortably held.
For the notebook:
IGOYOUGO – when dropped in class
DOC HAY – needs a stiffer track than Musselburgh
ISHEFORREAL – may go hurdling, but worth an interest if aimed at Southwell’s Fibresand surface
JONNY DELTA – he should progress with experience and stays well
NEWCASTLE – Monday August 29th
The Bank Holiday ‘Blaydon Races’ card at Newcastle was disappointing and was suffering from lack of investment. This was decent card a few years but has been gradually downgraded in recent seasons, a pattern not untypical of all bar the top racing days at Gosforth Park.
The 7 furlong two-year-old maiden normally oftens fling up one or two of interest. I suspect the handicapper is likely to have the winner ZAKREET covered for nurseries. Favourite WARCROWN disappointed and couldn’t make an impact form two furlongs out, but he should strengthen with time and shouldn’t be written off. Another to note was tom Tate’s NEVER PERFECT who missed the break but put up some pleasing work in the closing stages to take fourth place. He will step up on this.
The form of the closing six furlong handicap will probably prove strong. Three were clear, LAYLA’S HERO, now back on a workable mark, asserted in the closing stages and can win again. Runner up LITTLE JIMMY ODSOX, a winner twice in three previous races, looks capable of adding to that tally before long. Previous winner SPINATRIX gives the form a solid look after finishing a close third.
CARTMEL – Monday August 29th
The Lakeland track closed their season as a packed house attended as is standard for this fixture.
COUNTRYWIDE FLAME won the four-year-old hurdle very easily and might well pick up another event or two before the season picks up in earnest. Other than that though there weren’t that many strong pointers to future races on this occasion.
Course specialists SOUL MAGIC and SCOTSWELL both scored on the day, making the tally 7 wins from just 11 runs this season for Borders trainer Harriet Graham.
Sunday, 28 August 2011
Late August round up
Apologies I hope to produce more regular updates in the coming months.
PERTH – Saturday August 20th
Going – Good
Perth introduced this meeting successfully last year as part of the Perth 800 celebrations. With the involvement of Alex Salmond and Prince Charles, this year’s meeting became a big charity fundraiser and there was a packed house for a meeting featuring a well endowed hurdle.
LOS NADIS won the opening middle distance hurdle. He made the running from the start and had plenty in hand to see off the opposition. When he first started hurdling his jumping was rather clumsy, but he really has learnt with experience and jumped his field silly here. GLINGERBANK, normally at his best after a break and on decent ground, followed home in second and retains his ability with advancing age. He may be worth an interest if given a bit of break before an autumn outing. GRANDAD BILL stayed on for third, and that was a fair effort from bottom of the weights, but he’s basically a bit frustrating.
The result of the main event, the Summer Champion Hurdle, pretty much reflected the handicap hierarchy, with top weight OVERTURN playing his customary front running role and keeping on strongly under encouragement up the straight. GENERAL MILLER ran a sound race in second, but the best effort was from Stuart Crawford’s improving dual purpose performer NOW THIS IS IT. The latter looks a decent prospect for either hurdling or chasing as Elliott sees fit in the coming months. NOBLE ALAN filled fourth, running soundly enough, and I would imagine his target might be the Kelso limited handicap chase that he was placed to win last autumn.
RESTORATION should have been a winner of the 2½ mile handicap chase but hit the least hard when taking charge and unseated some way after the fence. ASHFIELD’S DREAM had raced prominently and had enough left to hold on up the run-in.
The subsequent races were not the most competitive and the standard fell away toward the end of the card. However, the winner of the bumper might go on to better things. ANNA’S ARCH is flat bred and I wonder if Alan Swinbank might take option to aim this one at a Flat maiden. The runner-up, Irish trained JAMESSON is bred for the ‘winter game’ and showed enough to suggest a race is within his compass. Pace setting AND HE’S DREAMING was disqualified from third after Tom David took the wrong course going away from the stands.
HAMILTON – Monday August 22nd
A low key card but one significant performance came from UNKNOWN REBEL, leading and staying on too strongly for the others in the 1m 3f Betfair Stayers Series handicap. He won at Chester the time before, and has also won going right handed, so must surely be a live contender if aimed for the Series Final at Musselburgh on Saturday 3rd September. I wouldn’t be put off by the two furlongs longer trip and he hints that he might be better with distance.
Another hinting at better to come was JONNY DELTA who stayed on from the rear to take fifth. This bumper winner looks capable of better on the flat and could be an interesting hurdling recruit come the autumn.
William Easterby rode his father’s RYEDANE in decent style to winner the amateur handicap, suggesting he’s a talented recruit to the amateur rider ranks.
SEDGEFIELD – Tuesday August 23rd
A very moderate summer jumping card with little encouragement for future races.
CARTMEL – Thursday August 25th
The August meeting started with an evening meeting of small and generally moderate fields.
ITZACLICHE jumped better than most and stayed on determinedly to win the 3m 6f contest under a sound ride from the trainer’s daughter Jo Richards.
SOUL MAGIC loves it around Cartmel and won the 2m 1½f handicap chase, staying on well up the straight. This one and Scotswell have been in rattling good form for Harriet Graham this summer, but Soul Magic might suffer under the handicapper when going elsewhere. EXECUTIVE’S HALL has been consistent of late but didn’t seem suited by the cut in the ground, though close up for third. He may do better if encountering fast ground before the summer is out.
PAINTED SKY held off WINTER ALCHEMY in the closing stayers hurdle. Given that the latter seems to be improving so the winner’s effort looks decent.
HAMILTON – Friday August 26th
DELIBERATION won the 6f Class 6 3yo handicap with a bit in hand. He looks ahead of the handicapper at the moment and might well score again even if upped a grade.
The runner up INCA BLUE has been campaigned at longer trips, but the drop back to six furlongs didn’t prove and inconvenience and he was clear of the rest. He has chances in a similar event if avoiding anything progressive.
A small group were clear in the 6f Class 4 handicap and, provided the handicapper doesn’t bump them all up, VALERY BORZOV ( lightly campaigned this year, took charge to win with a bit in hand), AMENABLE (found this class more matching his ability) and KLYNCH (another benefitting form a drop in class), can all make a mark in coming weeks if kept to no higher than 0-90 contests. That assumes the winner is moved up no more than 5lbs!
SHERANANDO landed the Lanark Silver Bell for Mark Johnston from a field of largely exposed handicappers. The fifth GOGEO kept on trough the field and might have more improvement in him than some. He might land a race if Alan Swinbank can find a less competitive event, possibly over further than 1m 4f.
I’m still hopeful that THE FIERY CROSS might be capable of picking up a Class 6 sprint handicap. He was outpaced two out but kept on finish third to SPARKING in the closing five furlong handicap. I reckon a six furlong race at this level will suit best.
CARTMEL – Saturday August 27th
This was a stronger card than the Thursday meeting, but itr’s wroth bearing in mind that rain since Thursday made the going very tiring.
I’m indebted to commentator Ian MacKenzie for a few little nuggets of information passed to the throng during his commentaries.
GOLDEN VIEW won the beginners’ chase from Aspatria Restricted winner DODGEY DREAM. Both should improve with experience in chases.
A Musselburgh hurdles winner last autumn, DICA was third here but got tired having raced in rear. He jumped well enough but looks to need faster ground. His rider James Reveley has spent the summer working in France for Guillaume Macaire, an experience which will have done him no harm.
COLDITZ was coaxed to victory in masterful style by AP McCoy. He saw of a field of dubious characters in the 2m 5½f Class 5 handicap chase, but it’s worth noting that the runner-up GUNS AND BUTTER seems to have received and enthusiasm injection since joining Jimmy Moffatt. Trained on the outskirts of Cartmel it seems the Lakeland air has done the former Rose Dobbin trained gelding some good. I may regret this, but he might just pick up a race in the near future.
INDIAN PIPE DREAM held off FOXESBOW in a slow motion finish at the end of the staying handicap chase. SEIZE didn’t jump well enough to trouble them, and probably was suited by the softened ground anyway. The first two may struggle in more competitive company. SEIZE may put the form behind him on a firmer surface.
The feature handicap hurdle for the Cartmel saw a group of multiple winners attending. VIVA COLONIA came away in the straight to win with something to spare and his trainer might now have a pot at some decent autumn handicap hurdles.
I should be at Musselburgh for Betfair Finals day this coming Saturday. After that my programme should pick up a bit as we head into the autumn. I shall make the effort to update at least once a week.
PERTH – Saturday August 20th
Going – Good
Perth introduced this meeting successfully last year as part of the Perth 800 celebrations. With the involvement of Alex Salmond and Prince Charles, this year’s meeting became a big charity fundraiser and there was a packed house for a meeting featuring a well endowed hurdle.
LOS NADIS won the opening middle distance hurdle. He made the running from the start and had plenty in hand to see off the opposition. When he first started hurdling his jumping was rather clumsy, but he really has learnt with experience and jumped his field silly here. GLINGERBANK, normally at his best after a break and on decent ground, followed home in second and retains his ability with advancing age. He may be worth an interest if given a bit of break before an autumn outing. GRANDAD BILL stayed on for third, and that was a fair effort from bottom of the weights, but he’s basically a bit frustrating.
The result of the main event, the Summer Champion Hurdle, pretty much reflected the handicap hierarchy, with top weight OVERTURN playing his customary front running role and keeping on strongly under encouragement up the straight. GENERAL MILLER ran a sound race in second, but the best effort was from Stuart Crawford’s improving dual purpose performer NOW THIS IS IT. The latter looks a decent prospect for either hurdling or chasing as Elliott sees fit in the coming months. NOBLE ALAN filled fourth, running soundly enough, and I would imagine his target might be the Kelso limited handicap chase that he was placed to win last autumn.
RESTORATION should have been a winner of the 2½ mile handicap chase but hit the least hard when taking charge and unseated some way after the fence. ASHFIELD’S DREAM had raced prominently and had enough left to hold on up the run-in.
The subsequent races were not the most competitive and the standard fell away toward the end of the card. However, the winner of the bumper might go on to better things. ANNA’S ARCH is flat bred and I wonder if Alan Swinbank might take option to aim this one at a Flat maiden. The runner-up, Irish trained JAMESSON is bred for the ‘winter game’ and showed enough to suggest a race is within his compass. Pace setting AND HE’S DREAMING was disqualified from third after Tom David took the wrong course going away from the stands.
HAMILTON – Monday August 22nd
A low key card but one significant performance came from UNKNOWN REBEL, leading and staying on too strongly for the others in the 1m 3f Betfair Stayers Series handicap. He won at Chester the time before, and has also won going right handed, so must surely be a live contender if aimed for the Series Final at Musselburgh on Saturday 3rd September. I wouldn’t be put off by the two furlongs longer trip and he hints that he might be better with distance.
Another hinting at better to come was JONNY DELTA who stayed on from the rear to take fifth. This bumper winner looks capable of better on the flat and could be an interesting hurdling recruit come the autumn.
William Easterby rode his father’s RYEDANE in decent style to winner the amateur handicap, suggesting he’s a talented recruit to the amateur rider ranks.
SEDGEFIELD – Tuesday August 23rd
A very moderate summer jumping card with little encouragement for future races.
CARTMEL – Thursday August 25th
The August meeting started with an evening meeting of small and generally moderate fields.
ITZACLICHE jumped better than most and stayed on determinedly to win the 3m 6f contest under a sound ride from the trainer’s daughter Jo Richards.
SOUL MAGIC loves it around Cartmel and won the 2m 1½f handicap chase, staying on well up the straight. This one and Scotswell have been in rattling good form for Harriet Graham this summer, but Soul Magic might suffer under the handicapper when going elsewhere. EXECUTIVE’S HALL has been consistent of late but didn’t seem suited by the cut in the ground, though close up for third. He may do better if encountering fast ground before the summer is out.
PAINTED SKY held off WINTER ALCHEMY in the closing stayers hurdle. Given that the latter seems to be improving so the winner’s effort looks decent.
HAMILTON – Friday August 26th
DELIBERATION won the 6f Class 6 3yo handicap with a bit in hand. He looks ahead of the handicapper at the moment and might well score again even if upped a grade.
The runner up INCA BLUE has been campaigned at longer trips, but the drop back to six furlongs didn’t prove and inconvenience and he was clear of the rest. He has chances in a similar event if avoiding anything progressive.
A small group were clear in the 6f Class 4 handicap and, provided the handicapper doesn’t bump them all up, VALERY BORZOV ( lightly campaigned this year, took charge to win with a bit in hand), AMENABLE (found this class more matching his ability) and KLYNCH (another benefitting form a drop in class), can all make a mark in coming weeks if kept to no higher than 0-90 contests. That assumes the winner is moved up no more than 5lbs!
SHERANANDO landed the Lanark Silver Bell for Mark Johnston from a field of largely exposed handicappers. The fifth GOGEO kept on trough the field and might have more improvement in him than some. He might land a race if Alan Swinbank can find a less competitive event, possibly over further than 1m 4f.
I’m still hopeful that THE FIERY CROSS might be capable of picking up a Class 6 sprint handicap. He was outpaced two out but kept on finish third to SPARKING in the closing five furlong handicap. I reckon a six furlong race at this level will suit best.
CARTMEL – Saturday August 27th
This was a stronger card than the Thursday meeting, but itr’s wroth bearing in mind that rain since Thursday made the going very tiring.
I’m indebted to commentator Ian MacKenzie for a few little nuggets of information passed to the throng during his commentaries.
GOLDEN VIEW won the beginners’ chase from Aspatria Restricted winner DODGEY DREAM. Both should improve with experience in chases.
A Musselburgh hurdles winner last autumn, DICA was third here but got tired having raced in rear. He jumped well enough but looks to need faster ground. His rider James Reveley has spent the summer working in France for Guillaume Macaire, an experience which will have done him no harm.
COLDITZ was coaxed to victory in masterful style by AP McCoy. He saw of a field of dubious characters in the 2m 5½f Class 5 handicap chase, but it’s worth noting that the runner-up GUNS AND BUTTER seems to have received and enthusiasm injection since joining Jimmy Moffatt. Trained on the outskirts of Cartmel it seems the Lakeland air has done the former Rose Dobbin trained gelding some good. I may regret this, but he might just pick up a race in the near future.
INDIAN PIPE DREAM held off FOXESBOW in a slow motion finish at the end of the staying handicap chase. SEIZE didn’t jump well enough to trouble them, and probably was suited by the softened ground anyway. The first two may struggle in more competitive company. SEIZE may put the form behind him on a firmer surface.
The feature handicap hurdle for the Cartmel saw a group of multiple winners attending. VIVA COLONIA came away in the straight to win with something to spare and his trainer might now have a pot at some decent autumn handicap hurdles.
I should be at Musselburgh for Betfair Finals day this coming Saturday. After that my programme should pick up a bit as we head into the autumn. I shall make the effort to update at least once a week.
Sunday, 10 July 2011
Soggy Perth Sunday
PERTH - Sunday 10th July
Going - Good (softening significantly in heavy rain from 3.40 onwards)
A fairly low key meeting that won't live too long in the memory for most. The heavens threw it down with rain during the fourth race and the remaining contests were run on softening ground, with parts of the course becoming water splashes.
2.10 2m 110yds toteplacepot Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)
Lucinda Russell has brought in a few new recruits for the summer campaign and WILD GEESE scored on his second outing for Arlary Stables. Racing prominently, he led at the last and was driven out for victory. This wasn't a great contest but he'll probably go better over a longer distance.
THAT'LL DO NICELY was fifth in a moderate Musselburgh event back in November. He was going well enough two out but outstayed from the last. He has prospects in minor company over hurdles.
MR TALLYMAN finished weakly again and is basically a one paced sort.
2.40 2m 4f 110yds Crabbie's Alcoholic Ginger Beer Novices' Hurdle (Class 4)
Few cards at Perth go without a winner from Gordon Elliott, and the Irish trainer obliged with BRAVE BEAUTY in this event. She won this fairly comfortably, easing into contention approaching two out and shaken up to go clear on the flat. She stays further but has speed to win at shorter distances.
GREEN MINING led until approaching the last and lost nothing in finishing second. He has prospects of recording a second novice win to go with his Worcester victory.
TAP NIGHT ran a fair race in third place, though held from two out. He's a flat bred sort who was previously in action the US, and I wonder if a drop to two miles might help.
LOCH DHU faded rather disappointingly from two out. That was handicap and I wonder if he might be better off in that company.
3.10 3m 110yds Try totequickpick On all totepool Bets Handicap Hurdle (0-115)
WINTER ALCHEMY looked a winner in the making when I first saw him. He's proved to be a little less than straightforward, jinking left here before the last, but stayed on under encouragement having led or disputed from the start. I suspect there may be a little better to come and stamina seems his strong suite.
MANGER HANAGEMENT was eased into the race approaching three out and had every chance. He was tired on the flat, hung right and was held.
FARFIELDS matched the winner until weakening before the last. This was a fair effort on his handicap debut and would be interesting if dropped in class.
OH SO BEAUTIFUL chased the leaders but was held from two out. She has steadily improved with experience and as a four-year-old a little strengthening will help in stamina contests.
3.40 2m 4f 110yds toteexacta Handicap Chase (0-122)
The heavens opened and the rain heaved down during this race.
Fife amateur Lucy Alexander has been getting a significant number of outside rides in recent times. She's a decent amateur rider and was helped by an improving performer in SCOTCH WARRIOR. Michael Smith's gelding has adapted well to the challenge of moving from hunter chases to handicaps and is progressing. Always going well up front, he responded well when asked for an effort from two out.
PEACHEY MOMENT has gone up 8lbs since last time and was held from the last but ran a sound race against a well weighted opponent. He has been progressive and the combination of rain and weight might have counted against him.
STEEL MAGNATE couldn't make any impact on improved terms with the winner and was held from two out.
BIG BURROWS offered a little more encouragement than on recent outings, though held in the straight.
4.10 2m 4f 110yds Try totequickpick If You're Feeling Lucky Novices' Chase (Class4)
Three Irish runners were pulled out to reduce the field to three, the rain still coming down heavily.
FOOL’S WILDCAT looked the likely winner approaching the last, and was four lengths up on the flat, but he totally gave the race away. He’s proved unreliable previously and is one to oppose at short prices.
KHORUN looked to be struggling before four out, but stayed on in the straight under driving and won a shade comfortably in the end. It’s difficult to quantify the performance though since the race was presented to him with his rivals underperforming.
Irish maiden point winner GOLDEN VIEW moved straight into chases form bumpers. He ballooned the first three but jumped better until making a pig’s ear of the water and dragging his hind legs. He stayed in contention but struggled once turned for home. The blunder could have hurt him and he’ll be worth another chance though has something to learn about fencing.
4.40 2m 110yds Red Hot Chilli Pipers Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (0-96)
It was still raining heavily and the entrance to the back straight was covered with standing water.
OCARITO surely can’t be improving significantly as a ten-year-old and presumably is just less bothered by rain than the others, but won this nicely, leading all the way and responding when asked on the flat. He was clear with COOL BARANCA who is ion decent form here and ran well enough.
The third VIA ARCHIMEDE has shown little of late and was well held.
5.10 2m 110yds totepool A Better way To Bet Standard Open NH Flat Race
The hurdles were left in position during this contest and the runners routed around them. Given that they went outside six flights and inside two then this probably added 40 or 50 yards to the distance. The rain continued to fall and the puddles grew.
The form looks pretty solid as two previous winners occupied the first two places. JIVE MASTER followed up an easy win at Newton Abbot with a driven out victory here. The winner’s profile looks sound and he has prospects when going over jumps.
INCAS ARTICLE won at Clonmel then ran fourth in what seemed a competitive contest at Bellewstown last weekend. She disputed form a mile out but was held once the winner asserted in the final 300 yards. Neither the sharp Bellewstown track nor Perth would bring out the best in her, so she will surely improve once moved up in trip.
BLAZIN WHITE FACE appeared to improve on her effort behind Atlanta Falcon here, closing to three furlongs out but held afterwards. She stuck on well enough and she would be of interest in a mares’ only race.
LADY OF VERONA made a fair start to here career, making an effort before the straight but then unable to match the principals. She’s bred to stay and will improve on this in time.
HAMILTON – Saturday July 9th
A moderate card of Class 5 and 6 events.
ELTHEEB burst clear of his opponents in the 1m 3f Class 5 event and should hold his own in better company next time.
A maiden seller is hardly a rich source of winners, but the second here THE FIERY CROSS has at least shown he has a bit of speed and was gaining on 66/1 chance Weetentherty at the line. Now he’s qualified for handicaps Ian Semple might find a low level event over five or six furlongs.
Going - Good (softening significantly in heavy rain from 3.40 onwards)
A fairly low key meeting that won't live too long in the memory for most. The heavens threw it down with rain during the fourth race and the remaining contests were run on softening ground, with parts of the course becoming water splashes.
2.10 2m 110yds toteplacepot Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)
Lucinda Russell has brought in a few new recruits for the summer campaign and WILD GEESE scored on his second outing for Arlary Stables. Racing prominently, he led at the last and was driven out for victory. This wasn't a great contest but he'll probably go better over a longer distance.
THAT'LL DO NICELY was fifth in a moderate Musselburgh event back in November. He was going well enough two out but outstayed from the last. He has prospects in minor company over hurdles.
MR TALLYMAN finished weakly again and is basically a one paced sort.
2.40 2m 4f 110yds Crabbie's Alcoholic Ginger Beer Novices' Hurdle (Class 4)
Few cards at Perth go without a winner from Gordon Elliott, and the Irish trainer obliged with BRAVE BEAUTY in this event. She won this fairly comfortably, easing into contention approaching two out and shaken up to go clear on the flat. She stays further but has speed to win at shorter distances.
GREEN MINING led until approaching the last and lost nothing in finishing second. He has prospects of recording a second novice win to go with his Worcester victory.
TAP NIGHT ran a fair race in third place, though held from two out. He's a flat bred sort who was previously in action the US, and I wonder if a drop to two miles might help.
LOCH DHU faded rather disappointingly from two out. That was handicap and I wonder if he might be better off in that company.
3.10 3m 110yds Try totequickpick On all totepool Bets Handicap Hurdle (0-115)
WINTER ALCHEMY looked a winner in the making when I first saw him. He's proved to be a little less than straightforward, jinking left here before the last, but stayed on under encouragement having led or disputed from the start. I suspect there may be a little better to come and stamina seems his strong suite.
MANGER HANAGEMENT was eased into the race approaching three out and had every chance. He was tired on the flat, hung right and was held.
FARFIELDS matched the winner until weakening before the last. This was a fair effort on his handicap debut and would be interesting if dropped in class.
OH SO BEAUTIFUL chased the leaders but was held from two out. She has steadily improved with experience and as a four-year-old a little strengthening will help in stamina contests.
3.40 2m 4f 110yds toteexacta Handicap Chase (0-122)
The heavens opened and the rain heaved down during this race.
Fife amateur Lucy Alexander has been getting a significant number of outside rides in recent times. She's a decent amateur rider and was helped by an improving performer in SCOTCH WARRIOR. Michael Smith's gelding has adapted well to the challenge of moving from hunter chases to handicaps and is progressing. Always going well up front, he responded well when asked for an effort from two out.
PEACHEY MOMENT has gone up 8lbs since last time and was held from the last but ran a sound race against a well weighted opponent. He has been progressive and the combination of rain and weight might have counted against him.
STEEL MAGNATE couldn't make any impact on improved terms with the winner and was held from two out.
BIG BURROWS offered a little more encouragement than on recent outings, though held in the straight.
4.10 2m 4f 110yds Try totequickpick If You're Feeling Lucky Novices' Chase (Class4)
Three Irish runners were pulled out to reduce the field to three, the rain still coming down heavily.
FOOL’S WILDCAT looked the likely winner approaching the last, and was four lengths up on the flat, but he totally gave the race away. He’s proved unreliable previously and is one to oppose at short prices.
KHORUN looked to be struggling before four out, but stayed on in the straight under driving and won a shade comfortably in the end. It’s difficult to quantify the performance though since the race was presented to him with his rivals underperforming.
Irish maiden point winner GOLDEN VIEW moved straight into chases form bumpers. He ballooned the first three but jumped better until making a pig’s ear of the water and dragging his hind legs. He stayed in contention but struggled once turned for home. The blunder could have hurt him and he’ll be worth another chance though has something to learn about fencing.
4.40 2m 110yds Red Hot Chilli Pipers Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (0-96)
It was still raining heavily and the entrance to the back straight was covered with standing water.
OCARITO surely can’t be improving significantly as a ten-year-old and presumably is just less bothered by rain than the others, but won this nicely, leading all the way and responding when asked on the flat. He was clear with COOL BARANCA who is ion decent form here and ran well enough.
The third VIA ARCHIMEDE has shown little of late and was well held.
5.10 2m 110yds totepool A Better way To Bet Standard Open NH Flat Race
The hurdles were left in position during this contest and the runners routed around them. Given that they went outside six flights and inside two then this probably added 40 or 50 yards to the distance. The rain continued to fall and the puddles grew.
The form looks pretty solid as two previous winners occupied the first two places. JIVE MASTER followed up an easy win at Newton Abbot with a driven out victory here. The winner’s profile looks sound and he has prospects when going over jumps.
INCAS ARTICLE won at Clonmel then ran fourth in what seemed a competitive contest at Bellewstown last weekend. She disputed form a mile out but was held once the winner asserted in the final 300 yards. Neither the sharp Bellewstown track nor Perth would bring out the best in her, so she will surely improve once moved up in trip.
BLAZIN WHITE FACE appeared to improve on her effort behind Atlanta Falcon here, closing to three furlongs out but held afterwards. She stuck on well enough and she would be of interest in a mares’ only race.
LADY OF VERONA made a fair start to here career, making an effort before the straight but then unable to match the principals. She’s bred to stay and will improve on this in time.
HAMILTON – Saturday July 9th
A moderate card of Class 5 and 6 events.
ELTHEEB burst clear of his opponents in the 1m 3f Class 5 event and should hold his own in better company next time.
A maiden seller is hardly a rich source of winners, but the second here THE FIERY CROSS has at least shown he has a bit of speed and was gaining on 66/1 chance Weetentherty at the line. Now he’s qualified for handicaps Ian Semple might find a low level event over five or six furlongs.
Saturday, 9 July 2011
Northumberland Plate Day
Apologies for no recent updates. I've been caught up with other matters and just haven't be able to write any reports. What I'll likely do from now on is cut down the length of the narrative and try to concentrate on a few significant performances.
NEWCASTLE - Saturday 25th June 2011
Along with David Cormack of The Racing Forum I popped down to Newcastle for the Northumberland Plate meeting. It's a grand old social occasion for the locals and a large and well behaved crowd was in attendance. The price of £42 for the Premier Enclosure is a bit steep, but on the other hand there was no shortage of takers.
Tominator benefitted from a step up in trip to take the feature to mile handicap. the noe I would take out of this contest is PETARA BAY, lightly raced in recent times but retaining a fair degree of ability. He had some traffic problems, but ran on well in the final quarter of a mile and looks capable of taking a staying handicap. MONTAFF came from the rear to take second place, but he's not an easy ride and I'd be wary of getting involved at a short price.
MY ARCH was drawn on the wide outside and never able to get into the race. He made an effort in the straight, but couldn't get on terms and was well beaten. This was a tough ask in the company, but he is well worth bearing in mind if dropped in class.
In the opening Group 3 seven furlong event the one that caught my eye was ETON RIFLES. Rated 94, he was fair bit below most here on official figures, but showed good pace and kept on into fourth. He ran some decent races over seven furlongs last autmn and looks ready to take a race in a slightly lower class.
KLYNCH ran a cracker to finish fourth in the 0-100 seven furlong handicap. This was a tougher ask than his previous runs but he was bang there most of the way and only gave way in the final furlong. He's run a decent race since and is still weighted to win a race.
The most experienced runner in the field, Kool Henry took the two-year-old maiden over five furlongs. The one that caught the eye on debut was SATANIC BEAT who coudln't quite match the winner and Free Zone, but stayed on well to take third. He's nicely bred, will benefit from a step up in distance and looks a winner in the making.
The closing three-year-old handicap over the round mile might prove to be a decent contest. WEAPON OF CHOICE led all the way nad responded determinedly when challenged in the closing stages.
MY FREEDOM was very green in the preliminaries, and proved so on the track. He would have won had he gone through a gap two out, but he baulked at it, then picked up once switched to take second. He appeared in a competitive at Newmarket this week, and was once again hampered by his greenness, being pipped on the line after hanging right and left in the last two furlongs. If he gets his act together he'll be Listed class at worst and must surely win a handicap.
YOJIMBO was clear of the rest in third and is another to note for future contests.
Mr Cormack managed to tempt me into parting with a little cash to cover a small ownership interest in a hurdler/chaser named OUTLAW TOM. He's a stayer trained by Lucinda Russell who will be aimed principally at middle range staying chases into the autumn. In the meantime he will be campaigned over hurdles and fences as opportunities occur. He ran fourth behind Bold Perk at Perth but probably paid the penalty for being the only one who seriously tried to take on the easy winner. He was essentially second best contestant on the day and did enough to suggest he'll win over hurdles or fences before long. He stays all day, has a good attitude and I reckon he won't want the ground too soft. The plan is that he will be campaigned in spring, sumemr and autumn.
NEWCASTLE - Saturday 25th June 2011
Along with David Cormack of The Racing Forum I popped down to Newcastle for the Northumberland Plate meeting. It's a grand old social occasion for the locals and a large and well behaved crowd was in attendance. The price of £42 for the Premier Enclosure is a bit steep, but on the other hand there was no shortage of takers.
Tominator benefitted from a step up in trip to take the feature to mile handicap. the noe I would take out of this contest is PETARA BAY, lightly raced in recent times but retaining a fair degree of ability. He had some traffic problems, but ran on well in the final quarter of a mile and looks capable of taking a staying handicap. MONTAFF came from the rear to take second place, but he's not an easy ride and I'd be wary of getting involved at a short price.
MY ARCH was drawn on the wide outside and never able to get into the race. He made an effort in the straight, but couldn't get on terms and was well beaten. This was a tough ask in the company, but he is well worth bearing in mind if dropped in class.
In the opening Group 3 seven furlong event the one that caught my eye was ETON RIFLES. Rated 94, he was fair bit below most here on official figures, but showed good pace and kept on into fourth. He ran some decent races over seven furlongs last autmn and looks ready to take a race in a slightly lower class.
KLYNCH ran a cracker to finish fourth in the 0-100 seven furlong handicap. This was a tougher ask than his previous runs but he was bang there most of the way and only gave way in the final furlong. He's run a decent race since and is still weighted to win a race.
The most experienced runner in the field, Kool Henry took the two-year-old maiden over five furlongs. The one that caught the eye on debut was SATANIC BEAT who coudln't quite match the winner and Free Zone, but stayed on well to take third. He's nicely bred, will benefit from a step up in distance and looks a winner in the making.
The closing three-year-old handicap over the round mile might prove to be a decent contest. WEAPON OF CHOICE led all the way nad responded determinedly when challenged in the closing stages.
MY FREEDOM was very green in the preliminaries, and proved so on the track. He would have won had he gone through a gap two out, but he baulked at it, then picked up once switched to take second. He appeared in a competitive at Newmarket this week, and was once again hampered by his greenness, being pipped on the line after hanging right and left in the last two furlongs. If he gets his act together he'll be Listed class at worst and must surely win a handicap.
YOJIMBO was clear of the rest in third and is another to note for future contests.
Mr Cormack managed to tempt me into parting with a little cash to cover a small ownership interest in a hurdler/chaser named OUTLAW TOM. He's a stayer trained by Lucinda Russell who will be aimed principally at middle range staying chases into the autumn. In the meantime he will be campaigned over hurdles and fences as opportunities occur. He ran fourth behind Bold Perk at Perth but probably paid the penalty for being the only one who seriously tried to take on the easy winner. He was essentially second best contestant on the day and did enough to suggest he'll win over hurdles or fences before long. He stays all day, has a good attitude and I reckon he won't want the ground too soft. The plan is that he will be campaigned in spring, sumemr and autumn.
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