Kelso Premier Hurdle Day

KELSO- Saturday March 3rd
Going – Good
Kelso held their headline meeting of the season with a number of Cheltenham or Aintree hopefuls appearing, among them last year’s Grand National winner Ballabriggs. Crowd size was perhaps a little down on expectations at 3,100 and field sizes were disappointing bearing in mind the decent prize money on offer, but the racing was competitive and threw up a few future pointers.
The weather has been comparatively mild and dry for a while, the course had considered watering earlier in the week, but a little rain provided an excellent racing surface.
1.55 2m 110yds Terry Frame Joiners Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)
Not a strong novice event and it was won by a horse whose stamina was in question before this. MAKBULLET is a seven furlong winner on the flat, but saw out the two miles well enough on this occasion, indeed he stayed on to assert in the final furlong. That being said, he’s always going to be favoured by two miles on quick ground or around a sharp track. He may find life tough under a penalty in this class.
Lucy Alexander set a sound pace on JET MASTER who didn’t have enough left once passed on the run-in. He seemed to run to his mark of 118, and I would imagine will be aimed at Perth meetings in the spring.
SAMSTOWN was dropped back in trip and stayed on into third place on the run-in. He was staying on over half a mile farther at Musselburgh and would be competitive stepped back up in distance. He’s a nice enough sort who should win races.
ABSINTHE was disappointing, faded after the last having chased the leader two out. His previous efforts read well but this was not so encouraging.
SMART RULER briefly threatened going to three out, but couldn’t get any closer. He was a cheap purchase but hints at ability and might get in the mix in lowly handicaps.
2.30 2m 1f Cyril Alexander Memorial Novices’ Chase (Class 4)
DEGAS ART is well exposed and not likely to be improving over fences at this time. He chased the leader until taking over from the last, though forced to work by a lesser rated stablemate. He goes to Cheltenham for a novices’ handicap, but will have his work cut out at the higher level.
KAI BROON jumped nicely created a favourable impression on his chasing debut. He would be better off in handicaps, but he’s rated only 105 and much depends on how the handicapper rates this effort behind against horses rated more than stone better.
CHESTER LAD made the pace but found precious little once passed before the last. He’s best of these three at his best, but seems to need things to go his way.
3.05 2m 1f Bedmax Handicap Chase (104-115)
A popular win for the locally trained and progressive RED TANBER. The chestnut received a fine reception, recording a fifth win of the season for Bruce Mactaggart and Lucy Alexander. He forged clear of front running Freddie Brown on the run-in and still looks to have something in hand of the handicapper. He was beaten by apparent handicap snip Oscar Hill at Musselburgh, but other than that nothing has been near to finding the bottom of him. He now goes to Cheltenham for the Jewson Novices’ Chase which is a big ask, but he’ll certainly jump as well as anything there as he gains a length or two per fence over his rivals at this level and is a chasing natural. I hope Red Tanber does his trainer proud at the Festival.
FREDDIE BROWN put up his best performance for some while. He settled much better in front here, and had all bar the winner seen off by the last. He kept on honestly once passed, and must surely pick up a similar race if he doesn’t catch one as progressive as the winner. He’s an impressive sight in the paddock and the hope is he can move on from this effort.
Veteran POLAR GUNNER looked an absolute picture beforehand and gave a sound account of himself. He was left behind by the first two from two out. He isn’t going to get any favours from the handicapper, but is running well enough that Malcolm Jefferson may be able to coax another win out of him, perhaps around here or at Sedgefield.
KILKENNY ALL STAR jumped poorly early on and never got into the race. He did make a little moderate progress late on, but never got near the leaders.
PAMAK D’AIRY was never in the hunt, while OR DE GRUGY is really out of sorts and even a return to his favourite stamping ground couldn’t conjure up a revival.
3.35 2m 2f totepool Premier Kelso Hurdle (Novices) (Grade 2)
Six recent winners in the field and this looked a fair renewal of Kelso’s highest graded contest of the season.
Lucinda Russell landed the prize for the second year running, the progressive TAP NIGHT seeking off a southerner challenger on the run-in. Before last summer the winner had recorded wins at Belmont Park and Delaware Park, but now he’s adjudged to the different sphere he’s coming on in leaps and bounds. He showed tenacity to wear down Captain Conan on the run-in and was pulling away at the line. Tap Night has a Coral Cup entry though I wonder if Lucinda Russell might just wait a little while for the right race.
Tolworth winner CAPTAIN CONAN raced close up and led going to the last, but he was one paced in the closing stages. Time may prove this to be a fair effort and this fine looking sort has the stamp of a chaser about him.
BURY PARADE forced the pace and paid for his efforts late on. This was a significant rise in class from his Hexham wins and he deserves credit for a fair effort. He probably needs softer ground than he had here.
INTO WAIN ran pretty much to his level in fourth and just found this class a bit too good for him.
UBALTIQUE was an easy winner in the heavy at Pau, but found himself dropped in at the deep end on debut for Donald McCain. This entry would suggest he has more ability than he showed here, and better would be expected with time to adjust to new surroundings.
LUCIA BAY was never going, struggling from three out. A return to mares’ company would be welcomed.
4.10 2m 6f 110yds totepool.com Premier Chase (Class 2)
A race short of three miles isn’t an obvious Grand Natio0nal trial, but last year’s renewal yielded the winner and two finishers in the big race. Ballabriggs made his seasonal re-appearance here but was eclipsed by a quirky winner and two others likely to take in the Aintree classic.
MASTER OF THE HALL, whose wins have all come in small field conditions chases, was ridden with all the mastery one comes to expect from Tony McCoy. He made steady progress from three out, joined issue at the last and was then held up until bursting through at the elbow. He won very cosily in the end. A Kelso regular reported that McCoy noted the odds board in the paddock and said “I wouldn’t back this at 6/4!” Presumably that set the champion a challenge he couldn’t resist.
ACCORDING TO PETE set the pace and tried hard to hold off challenges but couldn’t match the winner’s turn of pace. A stiffer test will suit and he is Aintree bound.
Another Aintree bound contender is ABBEYBRANEY. Held on the book here, he kicked on four out and led until headed after the last. He’s entered in the National and is running well enough to suggest he can acquit himself with credit if given the chance to be Scotland’s runner.
BALLABRIGGS led at the last having eased into contention, but was tapped for pace in the final three hundred yards. Donald McCain expressed himself well satisfied with the effort here. He’ll have a weight to lug around Aintree, but he’s been brought on with the race as his sole focus. I suspect he may find one or two too good, but then I dismissed him after last year’s running of this race…
Jean Macgregor sent out WATERSKI to pick up some pocket money for finishing a remote fifth. He’s woefully slow, but was turned looking a picture!
4.45 2m 6f 110yds Canal Challenge Hunters’ Chase (Class 6)
The hunter ranks are lacking in quality in Scotland at the moment, with the possible exception of Special Portrait, but even the latter struggles in top company. This contest was very ordinary with a group of well exposed performers finishing in a heap. I doubt this would even have constituted a decent Open point.
INVERLOCHY LAD departed at the first at Ayr, but made up for the mishap with a tenacious effort here. Taking up the running going on to the final circuit he stuck on to see off all-comers on the run-in.
HARMONY BRIG is getting on a bit but still retains some ability, though he’s never been the most committed. A recent winner of a point, he had every chance here but was held in the closing stages.
MONTAUK HIGHWAY and COOLE MURPHY are well exposed as moderate in the pointing field and their close proximity to the winner does little to advertise the form, the latter having proved a weak finisher in maiden points.
RAKERIN LAD improved late on under pressure and was never closer than at the finish.
SPELLCHECKER and KILDONNAN should have been involved at their best, but both were disappointing while COMMERCIAL EXPRESS, a distinctly moody customer, didn’t take too much interest.
5.20 2m 6f 110yds Bet totepool Text tote to 89660 Handicap Hurdle (92-107)
An exposed bunch with two of the more likely sorts pulling clear from two out.
SUNDOWN TRAIL travelled well all the way and, brought with a challenge by McCoy approaching the last, forged ahead in the final furlong. Nicky Richards often has his charges tuned up for Kelso and Sundown Trail was produced in peak fitness for this contest. He’s going in the right direction and may score again.
FOUR FIDDLERS made a decent impression on his handicap debut and Lucy Alexander certainly gave as good as she got in the finish against Tony McCoy. This one had looked likely to be suited by a test of stamina and saw the race out well enough. He should have a chance of picking up a similar contest.
HIGHRATE was left in the lead when three departed at the ninth hurdle, but was well held from two out though plugging on for third a fair way behind the second.
POLITICAL PADDY looked very well and hadn’t been asked a question when brought down at the ninth. He has won twice over the course and distance, and might find a soft contest before long.

A poorly conceived Cheltenham Preview was held after racing in the Tweedie Stand Bar. I suspect the event was organised at short notice and the hub-bub from the drinkers made it difficult for speakers to be heard. Lucinda Russell, Peter Scudamore, Richie McGrath, George Primarolo of the Tote and a Timeform representative gave their opinions. Gordon Brown of ATR tried desperately to call for hush but after battling against the noise for 15 minutes the preview was cut short. It is hoped that the event in a more suitable time and place next year.

Lucinda Russell's one to watch was DE BOITRON who goes to Cheltenham off the back of an encouraging run at Musselburgh and 4lbs lower in the handicap.

Scottish trainers go into Cheltenham with their strongest hand for some while. I'll post up a preview over the weekend.

Mid February Scottish Meetings

A burst of three Scottish meetings in three days, all offering a decent main prize and rewarded with competitive cards.I’ve struggled to find enough time to pay the racing sufficient attention, so the following reports concentrate on a few significant performances

AYR – Tuesday February 14th

This was an ordinary conditionals’ handicap hurdle contest was won by a 10 year old recording his second career win. On that basis it’s not an event that screams “future winners”. SEVEN IS LUCKY forged clear in the straight and was never in any great difficulty after that. He was well held in better company at Wetherby subsequently and is worth opposing if starting at short odds in future.
James Ewart introduced a nice looking French import UN GUET APENS who created a satisfactory impression in winning the novices’ hurdle. There are plenty of winning jumpers in the family, and this winner has already proved an ability to see out 18 furlongs in testing ground. He may be a nice prospect for handicaps. FIND A KEY represented solid looking form and was probably unlucky to run into a decent performer here. He kept on and should win a hurdle before long as his trainer is adept at sorting out opportunities.
THE TRACEY SHUFFLE showed plenty of promise last season and had the 2m 4f maiden won from a long way out, though he did survive making an almighty hash of three out and two out. He was tired but allowed to coast home. WILDE PASTURES occupied second from three out. This is probably a fair effort having been off since March 2010 and there should be better to come. The remainder were strung out along the Ayrshire coast!
James Ewart made it two winners on the day as in the novices’ chase over 2m 4f as BISHOPS HEIR took the novice chase. He was well held at Catterick, but that was two miles on better ground and the stiffer test here definitely suited. Conversely the second CARRICKBOY looked a bit better over two miles at Catterick and couldn’t match the winner from two out. DANCING DIK jumped exuberantly but tired in the closing stages. A break from the track suggests a problem but, assuming he can be kept fit, he should be capable of winning a chase. KING OF THE GYPSIES and ALFRED OATS never got into the contest. However, the latter will find easier tasks once his level is established and should be able to win a chase given time.
CHARINGWORTH should have won the 2m 4f handicap chase. He was coming clear but stumbled after big jump two out and shot Lucy Alexander out the front door. He looks in good heart, wasn’t moved up much for his Wetherby win and is capable of recording another victory.
TIPSY DARA acquitted herself well stepped up to Class 4 and at a longer trip of 3m 1f. She found two too good for her in the closing stages but would have every chance if aimed at a basement level race around this trip. John Wade’s BEAU DANDY won well in only his second handicap chase, is going the right way and is in capable hands. This trip pushes SAMMY SPIDERMAN’s stamina to the limit and he couldn’t match the principles close home, whilst another course specialist in SOMETHING SILVER found this too far by half a mile and was pulled up.
CLOUDY LANE saw off SPECIAL PORTRAIT in the hunter chase and now heads to Cheltenham for the Foxhunters’. I’m not sure the former will prove quite good enough now at the top level of this discipline, but the runner-up performed solidly and should pick up a win or two on his own patch.

Willie Amos revealed a talented four-year-old mare in DANTE’S FROLIC. She came clear impressively from two out and could be a decent performer. She may be aimed at a valuable Newbury contest in March.

KELSO – Wednesday February 15th
Nicky Henderson brought three decent animals from Lambourn and each won with a bit to spare. LYVIUS won well enough in the opener holding off Lucinda Russell’s Rhymers Ha’ in the final furlong. Lyvius is entered in the Triumph hurdle but that will be a much tougher test than this. RHYMER’S HA’ is going the right way and held off 124 rated ABSINTHE in the run to the line, hinting that step up in trip would do no harm.
BELLVANO made it two for Henderson, leading on the bit on the flat and not stretched to win comfortably. Henderson is likely to keep him fresh for a novice chase at Aintree. KING’S GREY and LATERLY performed soundly enough and will find easier opportunities. MAGGIO got ‘half-lengthed’ by Laterly at the second, blundered and gave Brian Hughes no chance of remaining in the saddle.
BOW SCHOOL came clear from FUNKY MUNKY in the 83-109 rated Oswald Handicap Hurdle over 2m 2f. This was an exposed field in the main and the likely rise will make things difficult for the winner. ROS CASTLE has less experience than many here, and hence potentially some improvement, so third place probably wasn’t a bad effort. He was staying on to the line.
TARTAN SNOW has put in some fair efforts round here and came clear of the field in the 2m 6f Amateurs’ Handicap Chase. Promising BENEFICIAL REFORM fell at the first having been made favourite, but one to note here might be PREMIER SAGAS who raced prominently before running out of stamina on the flat. A drop back in trip should help.
Nicky Henderson’s SIMONSIG easily held off Knockara Beau and Local Hero in the feature Morebattle Hurdle. He’s entered in both the Supreme Novices’ and the Neptune Hurdle at Cheltenham, the latter being jockey Barry Geraghty’s choice. One note of caution might be that he hit the last two hurdles, and needs to be sharper at the top level.
KNOCKARA BEAU ran creditably at a distance short of his best. He should acquit himself creditably in his chosen Cheltenham outing, presumably a staying handicap chase.
MARSH WARBLER was disappointing here and finished distressed.
DOC ROW won the hunters’ chase holding off SACRED MOUNTAIN on the run-in, the pair well clear of AGGIE’S LAD who may have found the going a little on the soft side.
Notebooks at the ready, now for my favourite Kelso bumper! This was a mares’ contest won in decent style by BRIJOMI QUEEN who held off a couple of winners. She’s well bred for jumping and should go forward from here. Penalised runners DOYLY CARTE and LUCEMATIC ran creditably and can get in the mix in similar company.
Harriet Graham’s MAGGIE BLUE ran soundly on her debut and looks the ‘quiet one’ to take forward from the contest. There’s plenty of decent staying jumping blood in the family, and she looks a nice one to remember for staying jumps contests in future seasons.

MUSSELBURGH – Thursday February 16th
Musselburgh closed their National Hunt season on ground which was just on the fast side of good in places.
Think Green set a strong pacer in the opening 2m 4f novices’ hurdle, but he was a spent force by the home turn. SAGA DE TERCEY took over and was well clear in the closing stages, being eased down on the flat. Jason Maguire didn’t go overboard after the race, suggesting that maybe this was just a moderate contest. He could be under-priced next time.
BLAZIN WHITE FACE will be better off in a mares’ staying contest. She weakened into third on the run-in, but could next get to grips with the winner.
Lucy Alexander set a new record for wins in a season by a woman jockey, reaching 23 and beating Lorna Vincent’s long established tally. RED TANBER was notching a fourth course win and once again jumped supremely well, pinging the last two fences and coming clear. He will be entered at Cheltenham to ‘give the owners a day out’ according to trainer Bruce Mactaggart, but back at a more realistic level he probably hasn’t stopped winning. Ayr in April would be his next target, it’s just a [pity there’s no more action at Musselburgh this season. CALL IT ON tried hard to match the winner and kept on for a clear second place.
ROYAL ENTOURAGE and CIVIL UNREST had a set to in the 2m 4f 80-105 handicap hurdle; the pair pulling well clear of Stormy morning. The second is worth noting once going chasing as he’s a robust sort, but he may pick up a hurdle if given a stiffer test.
DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN scored a third course win of the season, galloping his rivals into submission in the feature two mile handicap hurdle. He is worth keeping an eye on should he be pulled out on the flat round here in spring or summer.
The novice SIMPLY NED was disappointing here, never having things his own and his chance was going when he rapped two out. He’s capable of better and should get stronger with time.
The hunter chase, won last year by subsequent Cheltenham Foxhunters’ winner Zemsky, was marred by the fatal fall of SIMONSBERG. The favourite was moving into contention when going straight down on his neck four out, a fall from which he didn’t rise. SILVERBURN went on to win the contest and his target is most likely to be Aintree’s Foxhunters’ Chase, though a summer campaign was mentioned by his trainer. SPELLCHECKER wasn’t disgraced in second place and should find either a hunter Chase or an Open point-to-point before long.
MAKARI was once again made favourite for a bumper but he’s proving a weak finisher. The hope is that he can see out two miles over hurdles. NEMI might be chase prospect in time, but was just pipped by another chasing prospect in point winner LEIGHINMOHR. Time might show this to be a decent contest.

ONES TO NOTE
PREMIER SAGAS – ran a decent race at a trip a little past his best; might pick up a handicap at 2m 4f.
MAGGIE BLUE – staying bred mare, showed some ability on bumper debut and worth noting for the long term.

Musselburgh - 'Cheltenham Trials Day'

MUSSELBURGH – Saturday February 11th

Going – Good to Soft

With the weather warming significantly in Scotland, the go ahead Musselburgh executive quickly investigated the possibility of re-arranging their Cheltenham Trials Meeting. The BHA were obliging and the East Lothian track were able to run the fixture with tweaks to race conditions to allow for competition from Newbury, which was called off anyway. Pity then that Channel 4 Morning line coverage seemed much more concerned with what wasn’t taking place rather than what was. There was upside though, since Derek Thompson’s Channel 4 commitments gave our ears a two hour rest from the normal ear-bashing they suffer at such gatherings!

The main contest, the Scottish County Hurdle, was downgraded a little, but was still a cracking contest, and looking at overall average Official Ratings I suspect this may have been the strongest card staged in Musselburgh 25 years of jump fixtures. Southern raider numbers were down, although one traveller from Oxfordshire took advantage of opportunities.

A sprinkling over rain over the previous couple of days eased the ground to just on the soft side, but it’s as good a jumping surface as you will get at this time of year.

1.30 John Smith’s Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)

Ding! Ding! Round One!. In the yellow corner, representing ‘The North’, EBANOUR from the yard of Donald McCain, and in the orange corner, representing ‘The South’, CROSS OF HONOUR from the yard of Charlie Longsdon.

The result was comfortable points victory for the Chipping Norton* yard of Longsdon, a trainer who I have a lot of time for and who’s runners always command respect. CROSS OF HONOUR travelled comfortably and forged clear from two out, winning eased down significantly. The gelding had been entered a number of times recently so his trainer was only too happy to travel to Scotland to get a run. He has an entry in the ‘Neptune Investment’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, but the trainer’s favoured line is to go for a handicap. Whatever he goes for he does look potentially a 140+ animal.
EBANOUR couldn’t match the winner in the straight, the blinkers maybe not having the same effect as last time. That being said his last three runs read solidly enough and he should pick up another race at his level.
SAMSTOWN, well outpaced in a fourteen furlong bumper in January last year, made a decent impression on his hurdling debut giving encouragement for the future. He stayed on up the straight and forced Ebanour to an effort to hold on for second.
VENITZIA faded in the straight and looks likely to be better off in handicaps.
EDMUND cost £20,000 as a three-year-old and showed enough on hurdling debut to hint that he can return some of that in time. He made an effort three out but couldn’t get to the leaders. I don’t think he’s the finished article and he should strengthen with another summer behind him.

*Before anyone asks, I used to live in Oxfordshire and in Olde Northe’s Oxon Book Of Geography ‘The Midlands’ starts at Banbury, so Chippy counts as ‘The South’! Mind you, by the same token ‘The North’ starts north of Stoke/Nottingham and there’s still a darned long way to Musselburgh.

2.05 2m John Smith’s Scottish Triumph (Juvenile) Hurdle (Class 3)

This event will more likely point to the Fred Winter hurdle than the Triumph at Cheltenham, though the winning trainer is concerned his charge may not get a run to be handicapped for that. Charlie Longsdon notched a quick double as WEST BRIT led two out and ran on well for victory. The winner has had a wind operation since pulling up at Plumpton and also had a tongue strap applied. He’s entered in the Triumph but it would be a big step up from this to have an impact in that event, though he might be worth a try at the Aintree equivalent which sometimes doesn’t take as much winning.
KIE shrugged off a poor run at Kempton to perform nearer to his best here. He’ll find his level in handicaps I would imagine and is a live sort if able to get a relatively uncontested lead.
ORTHODOX LAD, making the trip from Ledbury for Ed De Giles and looking nicely fit, built on a promising Ludlow debut. He tried to get on terms three out, not quite got near enough to threaten the winner but kept on under encouragement for third place. He will find easier opportunities.
RED INCA stayed on from the rear for fourth but was never in the race.
Catterick winner CREEKSIDE looked a fair bit more substantial than the rest in the paddock. He was found wanting from the home turn and struggled into fifth place. He may have found this track a bit sharp in the company.
In my opinion LAUGHING JACK was the pick of the paddock, but he was very geed-up, pulled hard going down and in the race, and predictably faded in the straight. He was a free-going sort on the flat and this needs to be kept in check if he’s to score over hurdles.

Sadly UNCLE BRYN took a horrid fall at the last when held in fourth, struggled to get up then collapsed and had to be put down.

2.35 3m ½f John Smith’s Stayers’ (103-133) Handicap Hurdle

A cracking finish here with two necks separating the first three. The in-form course specialist EVERAARD stuck his neck out in determined fashion to hold on here, raised significantly in class from his last hurdles race. Three close here won’t have harmed his handicap mark unduly, but opportunities have now run out for this season at Musselburgh.
DEVOTION TO DUTY battled hard but was held close home. He’s capable of winning a similar race but isn’t guaranteed to reproduce the form.
Potentially the best prospect here might be MOONLIGHT DRIVE, lightly raced under Rules. He made up a heck of a lot of ground in the straight, but just lacked a little extra from the last. A fine effort though and he seems better suited by the decent ground encountered here. It’s surely only a matter of time before he wins a race.
DIZZY RIVER was not disgraced in fourth, keeping on but held form the last. ALDERLEY ROVER couldn’t get to grips with the first three from two out and doesn’t look especially well handicapped over hurdles or fences right now.
ARCTIC COURT led until three out and could only muster a steady pace afterwards. He needs a stiffer test than this course presents.
Charlie Longsdon’s OSTLAND was made favourite to provide a stable treble, but he was outpaced from two out and weakened in the closing stages.
MORE EQUITY found the company here a bit too tough and is better over fences.

3.10 2m John Smith’s Scottish Champion Chase (Handicap) for the Bowes-Lyons Cup (117-138)

A decent competitive turn out for an apparently grandly named race, though there is a significant reason for the race title. The Queen Mother’s family name was Bowes-Lyon, and the event is intended to be the Scottish equivalent of Cheltenham’s Queen Mother Champion Chase. A perpetual trophy has been donated by the Bowes-Lyon family and the aim is to attract even stronger fields in future.

A whole host of contestants jumped the last two at close quarters, but sadly for them the winner TARA ROYAL had kicked on before two out and didn’t look likely to be caught. He’s been a bit below par since showing as a promising novice last season, but given that he cracked his pelvis just before Cheltenham last year that’s no surprise. He could well go on to trouble better company.
WOODY WALLER set the pace and kept on to the line, despite jumping left markedly so up the straight. He had not exhibited this trait before and may want a left-handed track, given that his finishing position suggests he was not otherwise troubled.
DE BOITRON came back to something near his best, staying on for third. Ferdy Murphy’s stable are normally at their best in the spring, and it’s significant that the trainer appears to still have a little bit of condition to work off this one. It would be no surprise to see De Boitron step up on this.
QUITO DU TRESOR probably found the two miles around here a bit sharp in the company. His target is likely to be the Grand Annual, and the chances are he might renew rivalry with De Boitron.
KOSTA BRAVA put up a decent effort from the bottom of the weights and will find easier opportunities. He has proved best around the minimum trip and is back on his latest winning mark.
ULTIMATE was well backed but couldn’t make an impact from three out having raced prominently.
GRACCHUS found this race a bit competitive and was held from three out.
LIGHTENING ROD won at Hexham but looks on a tough mark at 134. He was outpointed in the straight.
SANTA’S SON is an odd looking creature with a long neck and short legs. It doesn’t seem to have stopped him achieving things though, and he has 8 career wins. He was well held here but is aimed at the Topham Trophy.
SAFARI ADVENTURES, often an exuberant front runner, looks down in the dumps at the moment and took precious little interest.

3.45 2m John Smith’s Scottish County Hurdle (Handicap) (118-139)

A strong renewal of this contest, quite possibly the strongest contested of any hurdle this season in Scotland, and I suspect only the Scottish Champion at Ayr might match it. Twelve of the thirteen had won this season and the other one was a winner at Cheltenham last March.

There was a furious pace from the start set by Dontpaytheferryman pressed by Ubi ace. The latter seemed best placed to take the race approaching the last, but STORMY WEATHER came through off a hold up ride and prevailed close home. Not totally disgraced in Grade 1 contests earlier this term, the winner showed he is well up to the class of decent handicap company. Assuming he gets into the race there seems no reason why he shouldn’t acquit himself well enough in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham, where there should be no shortage of pace. Whatever route he takes he will be competitive in upcoming handicaps.
UBI ACE ran a cracker off top weight, looking the winner at the last only to be denied close home. He’s having a rattling good season and goes to Cheltenham with every chance of a prominent finish.
All credit to DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN, a course specialist and stable companion of the winner. Tanking along at the head of the field in typical style, he looked held once passed but knuckled down and was coming back at the finish. He’s in fine heart and might be worth an interest should his trainer find a flat contest at Southwell, or perhaps back here for a suitable handicap in spring or summer. He’s entered in a handicap hurdle at Musselburgh this Thursday (16th) where he takes on the progressive Simply Ned.
Decent novice INGLEBY SPIRIT performed with credit in this company, coming with an effort two out but just unable to keep the momentum going. He’ll find easier tasks than this and should win again before long.
SHADOWS LENGTHEN couldn’t make a significant impression approaching the last and was held in fifth. He’s a big strong individual who should make up into a chaser before long.
Novice CRY FOR FREEDOM wasn’t disgraced in sixth on only his fourth hurdles outing. He’ll have opportunities in a lower class handicap or a novice contest under a penalty.
ZAFRANAGAR got on to the heels of the leaders three out but couldn’t make any further impression after that. He may need a little more cut in the ground to be seen at his best.
The form of the handicap hurdle on New Year’s Day was put firmly in its place here. That race was a muddling affair and the three principals, PALAWI, NINE STORIES and ALSAHIL couldn’t make a mark on this occasion. However, the latter is lightly raced and can do better.
A novice handicap chase winner at the Cheltenham Festival last year, DIVERS was bandaged in front and always struggled here. This was no sort of prep for March and I’d be wary of him at present.

4.20 2m 4f John Smith’s future Champions Novices’ Chase (Class 3)

This race has yielded some decent winners since its inception, and this renewal appears no different with Lucinda Russell’s progressive gelding BOLD SIR BRIAN taking the honours. He had a scare when having to avoid fallen Chester Lad at the twelfth, but was never in any trouble after that to see off Stopped Out who is a fair marker. Bold Sir Brian has strengthened up in recent months and now has a number of options, the Jewson at Cheltenham, or maybe going to Aintree or Ayr in April. He is potentially very decent.
STOPPED OUT is a consistent sort who keeps running into one too good over fences. He didn’t do too much wrong, if clearly outpaced from four out, and there must surely be chase for him before long.
DOUBLE EXPRESSO has had problems, bleeding when competing in a claiming hurdle at Taunton, and never competitive here. He completed in his own time, inheriting third by virtue of two rivals falling. His prospects look bleak at anything other than base level.
CHESTER LAD made this a decent test, bowling along nicely in front until getting too low at the twelfth and taking a spectacular tumble. He seemed to be alright afterwards.
BOGSIDE tried valiantly to match the front two but was making no impression when crashing to the ground four out. He needs his sights lowered a little.

4.50 John Smith’s (113-130) Handicap Hurdle

The closing contest was dominated by two progressive novices. Newmarket challenger CAPE DUTCH had enough in hand to comfortably hold off Worcestershire based COTILLION on the run-in, the pair clear of the remainder. The winner will presumably be aimed at Cheltenham, perhaps for one of the handicaps. The second might just be shunted out of this class now, but probably has ability to be competitive in a slightly higher grade.
The more exposed THE STARBOARD BOW could never match the first two but stayed on for third. This is his trip and he has now dropped to manageable mark.
HIGGY’S BOY kept from the rear for fourth, but he hasn’t won for three years and is struggling off his current mark. He’s dropped to 123 after this run, but 120 might be the magic figure class wise.
SIMONSIDE set the pace until passed before two out. He was tapped for pace from that point.

Escaping the freeze, some of the time!

Musselburgh's Trials Day meeting was frozen out last Sunday, but in typical style the executive were quick to put themselves forward to run the meeting this coming Saturday February 11th. As things stand the weather seems likely to allow the meeting to go ahead and, with Uttoxeter and Warwick both in the freezer, Musselburgh should stand prominently as one of two Saturday jump meetings. It's dreich in the east of Scotland at the moment, and that's no bad thing at this time of year if you want to avoid frost!

Four meetings have taken place in the north in the last couple of weeks, Ayr being the last to survive the freeze.

NEWCASTLE - 26th January

Lucinda Russell's stable have hit form with a vengeance, topping and tailing the meeting with wins from two progressive sorts, BRINDISI BREEZE and LUCIA BAY. The former won very comfortably in the three mile novice hurdle and might be worth a tilt at Graded races. LUCIA BAY followed up this win at Ayr, both races seeing off her own sex and is as good a female novice as there is in the North.
Nick Alexander's PAPAMOA struggled against tough opposition in Brindisi Breeze's race and would welcome a return to a handicap.

CHESTER LAD jumped boldly if tending to go right in winning the beginners' chase, with VOSGES once again finding one too good. The winner wasn't completely straightforward over the smaller obstacles but could prove useful on his day over fences. DEGAS ART ran a fair race in third without threatening to win, but is essentially exposed and can be a bit moody. Given that second, third and fourth are all rated in the 120s, it does suggest Chester Lad might be decent in this sphere.

Having been left clear when Allanard departed two out, MORGAN BE stayed on and just had enough to hold fast finishing CATEGORICAL in a competitive three mile Class 3 handicap chase. Both are well exposed, but the latter normally picks up a race at this time of the year and seems in good heart. ROLECARR ran a sound race if just lacking a little extra from two out, while EYRE SQUARE was a bit disappointing in fourth place.
ALLANARD led from five out until taking a crunching fall two out. He's been moved up 6lbs for this performance, which seems a bit harsh as plenty can happen from two out.

Nick Alexander managed to tap into previously unadvertised ability with TIPSY DARA. The 2m 4f Class 5 chase was between two in the closing stages, and the winner probably did well to see off apaprently progressive SHADOW BOXER. The winner's owners have been very patient according to the trainer, having owned Tipsy Dara since the age of three.

AYR - January 30th

The opening novices' hurdle was close fought contest between DIOCLES and a back to form JET MASTER, the pair well clear of the remainder. The winner's dam Ardrina was a fair staying chaser and here son might prove interesting once going over fences.

Sandy Thomson has acquired some fair performers of late and the Greenlaw trainer's NETMINDER scored a comfortable and deserved success when pulling clear of TALKIN SENCE in the 2m 4f novice hurdle. Not the strongest of events but the winner is going the right way, and it's nice to see his enthusiastic trainer being rewarded.

RAILWAY DILLON comfortably saw off a disapponiting YES TOM in a novice chase match. I don't think the winner is the easiest character to catch right and I'd be wary of this form.

OVERLADY returned to from with a win in the 3m 1f handicap chase. Previously and inmate of James Ewart, she now resides with Stuart Coltherd. She relishes a staying test in the mud as she had here and could notch up another win at this level given similar conditions. ROSSINI'S DANCER ran his best race for a while in second, though he was held from two out.
ROYAL MACKINTOSH couldn't build on a decent Kelso effort and faded tamely in the straight.

SOMETHING SILVER led until after teh last in a battle of the course specialists against SAMMY SPIDERMAN. The latter is now hitting form and his stamina took over as Something Silver's fuel guage flickered. The winner is 5 from 11 runs at Ayr and, though he has seen out 3m 1f in the mud here, he's probably best around 2m 4f to 2m 5f. The runner-up was nicely ridden from the front by Lucy Alexander (she rode four seconds on the card!) and may pick up a small contest.

LADY BLUESKY looked all over the winner of the two mile handicap hurdle, a class 3 event, before walking through the last and unshipping Ewan Whillans. She has been bumped up 7lbs for this, but she is in good heart and might defy the rise. Calum Whillans benefitted as NELSON DU RONCERAY was left to lead home a number of exposed performers splitting their time between hurdles and chases.

LORD WISHES galloped on relentlessly to win the five runner bumper. Difficult to judge the form in a small field, but this one is related to a number of hurdle and chase winners.

NEWCASTLE - February 1st

Not a strong card and signiifcant pointers were few and far between.

DANCING ART won the novices' handciap chase and is progressing steadily at his own level, doing enough here to comfortably hold Catterick winner BEST LEGEND. It wouldn't surprise if the winner can pick up another handicap before long.

TAP NIGHT is one amongst a host of decent novice hurdlers in Lucinda Russell's yard, and was not troubled to see off a moderate field here. Worth a try in much better company. FALCUN ran on well enough in second though having no chance with the winner, while Donald Whillans's SNAPPING TURTLE kept on determinedly from the second last and will have a chance once gaining a handicap mark.

KING OF THE WOLDS saw off WOLF SHIELD in a duel up the striahgt in the lcosing bumper. However, it was a loose horse that caught the eye in the closing stages. Squeezed for room, jinking out and unseating as the runners passed through a 'hurdle gap', David Thompson's LOGICAL APPROACH raced enthusiastically with the field and led them up the straight. He clearly doesn't mind a gallop and might just be worth an interest in a similar contest.

AYR - February 6th

We lost Musselburgh the day before, but warmer weather on the west coast allowed Ayr to stage what has been the only jump meeting in the cocuntry so far this week.

LUCIA BAY saw off Gordon Elliott's previous winner MAE'S CHOICE in the mares' novices' hurdle. I spotted the winenr looknig a bit down in the dumps on a visit to Lucinda Russell's yard last summer, but she has certainly perked up in recent months and proved she has a decent engine.

SYDNEY PAGET was a very easy winner of the 2m 4f novices' hurdle and merits a step up in class. Eyecatcher here was HIGGS BOSON, running another excellent race in second against a talented opponent and he will win a race soon if he avoids hotpots!

The staying novices' chase was a fascinating tactical contest between three decent horses. Providing part two of a three-timer fro Lucinda Russell, BLENHEIM BROOK had too much speed up the striaght for more of an out and out stayer in LIE FORRIT. The winner holds an entry in the National Hunt Chase and, assuming he stays, he has the ability to be in the mix.
LIE FORRIT has disappointed at Cheltenham and it's likely Willie Amos will look elsewhere to test his stable star.
EIGHT IS MY NUMBER tried hard to run the finish out of the other two but was a spent force two out. He's entered in the Natinoal Hunt Chase and the RSA Chase, but would be outclassed in the latter.

QUACITY beat a field of maidens, 56 runs between them without a win before this, in winning the novices' handicap chase. WHAT A DREAM stayed on for second but is nothing special. SADDLE PACK faded to fourth and is becoming frustrating.

MISTER MARKER was thereabouts all the way in the 3m 1f handicap chase and held on after leading at the last. He stays well and revels in the mud. POSH BIRD pushed the winner all the way to the line and would be suited by a step back up in trip.
Bandaged in front, Bonchester Bridge trained ABBEYBRANEY led three out but, soon passed, was held on the urn to the last. He holds a Grand National entry, which may be ambitious, but if his legs hold up, he may pick up a race where the accent is on stamina

The Kamikaze Squad were once again on course to make DICKIE HENDERHOOP favourite for a Class 5 handicap hurdle over two and a half miles. Someone must see something in him, but he clings resolutely to maidenhood and unseated at the second to put supporters out of their misery early on. SEE THE LEGEND just held ANCIENT TIMES ni a battle royal to the line. Neither are greatly gifted, but they showed the irght attitude given a chance. SYDNEY COVE stayed on late and might be worth another try over a longer trip.

BIG WATER galloped clear in the closing bumper to make it two wins from two runs. There's a mix of blood in the family, but the sire blesses progeny with stamina and the dam was a fair two mile hurdler.

ONES TO NOTE

CATEGORICAL - Just touched off at Newcastle and his wins have generally been at this time of year.
SNAPPING TURTLE - not disgraced in hurdles to date and wiorth an interest once handicapped.
LOGICAL APPROACH - jinked out and unseated on bumper debut, but raced to the front at the finish and showed some enthusiasm!

Musselburgh - last January meeting

MUSSELBURGH - Wednesday 25th January

Going - Good (a bit loose on top)

1.40 2m 4f Cosmic Case Mares' Novices' Hurdle (Class 4)

Gordon Elliott's Downpatrick winner MAE'S CHOICE dictated from the start and, winding things up on the second circuit, was not pressed to win this event. GLENORA GALE, who has ability but has proved less than straightforward on occasions, chased the leader from three out without making a serious impression. She'll probably find a similar event sometime.
SANDS OF VATERSAY was outpaced in the straight and the other three didn't get in a blow from the home turn, debutante BALLADE DE LA MER falling heavily at the last when well beaten..

2.10 3m Racing UK Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Chase (70-95)

A right bunch of characters in this one, though the winner had at least hinted at better to come when second here on New Year's Day. TEARS FROM HEAVEN was always going comfortably enough in touch with the leaders and pulled clear from four out, being eased down close home. He entered this on a very lowly mark and even a hefty rise will keep him in this moderate company, in which he must have chances of a follow up.
DESERTMORE STAR had one on two bits of form in points, but hasn't excited in handicaps to date. He was well held in the straigth but kept on for second place, and seems honest enough, though second here is nothing to write home about.
HURRICANE jACK was never able to dominate and Peter Buchanan was 'at him' from a long way out. He kept on for third, but is capable of better if able to get a free ride in front.
STUFF OF DREAMS was in rear for the first half of the race, closed a bit down the far side but lost touch from the home turn. She's shown the odd glimmer of form on decent gorund, but struggles in all but the very worst company.
WHY ARE YOU ASKING is flattered by a row of places and was outpaced from four out.
OH RIGHT has been beaten a long way in all efforts under Rules.
LEOPOLD has done well round Fakenham in the past but is regressing these days.
PADDYS UNYOKE clung determindely to his maiden tag under Rules, dropping away quickly from a mile out.


2.40 Tom McConnell Trophy Novices' Hurdle (Class 4)

Only two threatened to win this and previous course winner INGLEBY SPIRIT took control before the last and came clear to win with a fair bit in hand. The sharp track and good ground suit this one.
Bangor winner ABSINTHE pulled hard early on but led until approaching the last, at which point he ran out of puff and was eased since he was well clear of the third.
MAYBE I WON'T kept on for third, though never near the leaders while L'EMINENCE GRISE did at least take on the favourites before being outpaced approaching three out, an encouraging sign if pitched against less capable opposition.
SNOOKER eased into contention three but soon weakened.

3.10 Boogie In The Morning Handicap Hurdle (105-120)

Once again Musselburgh put their fellow courses to shame with a £10,000 headline prize at a run-of-the-mill midweek meeting.

Determined front-runner DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN set off at a decent pace and kept up the gallop to record a second successive course win. He really goes well here and he was plenty good enough to cope with this stiffer class.
KNIGHT IN PURPLE pulled clear with the winner from two out, but just couldn't get to grips with that one. He does all his racing on decent ground and it wouldn't be a surprise to see him back here for the Scottish County Hurdle.
BEIDH TINE ANSEO cashed the leader but was outpaced from two out. He got bumped up a long way in the ratings for winning a couple of handicaps and the handicapper has him in his place.
HUNTERS BELT made progress to chase the leaders entering the straight, but didn't make any further impression.
EMBSAY CRAG ran off 119 here and that seemed harsh for winning a moderate event at Wetherby. He struggled after the turn for home.

3.40 Bunny Maitland-Carew Handicap Chase ( - )

The master placer Gordon Elliott put OSCAR HILL in here for a first effort over fences. Taken down quietly, he was set alight once the race started, jumped well in front and nothing seriously threatened. Difficult to wiegh up the performance since he got his own way and he may find it tougher if moved up to a better class now.
RED TANBER's winnnig run came to an end, but he may just have 'run into one' here as he was well clear of the remainder and I'd keep faith with him as he's well capable of winning in this class. He showed himself to be very nimble, having to hurdle a faller at the ninth, but I don't think that incident mattered as far as final position was concerned.
STREAMTOWN, not totally disgraced in a mares' Grade 3 at Cork last time, chased the leader for much of the way, not being helped by the fall of Alpha One, but was not making any headway when thumping two out. She couldn't recover and finished a well beaten third.
SERGEANT PINK has struggled to make a mark since joining Dianne Sayer and faded in the straight having chased the leader for two miles.
HEAVENLY CHORUS never got into the race and was well behind once turned for home.
ALPHA ONE had chased the leader until falling at the ninth. He remains an interesting prospect in similar company.

4.10 Watch Racing UK Online at Racinguk.com Standard Open NH Flat Race (Class 6)

This won't have been the strongest bumper in Scotland this season.

The winner IFYOUSAYSO showed a glimmer of ability in a maiden last season, but acquired an 'R' at Alnwick in December! He showed plenty of determination here, leading until after two out, then battlnig back determinedly in the final final to snatch the race on the line. It remains to be seen what the form is worth, but he showed plenty when the chips were down.
FLAMING ARROW cruised into the lead after two out, but couldn't find enough once asked for more and surrendered the race 50 yards out.
SPRING LANE kept on well enough in third just ahead of SPARVILLE who loomed up on the final bend but could never get to grips with the leaders. The latter probably wasn't suited by the sharp track here.

I should be at the Cheltenham Trials day a week Sunday for what is always a decent day's racing. I hope to make the last meeting at Musselburgh on February 16th, though work commitments might now get in the way. Next meeting after that will be Premier Hurdle and Chase at Kelso on March 3rd, with Ballabriggs lined up for his Grand National prep race.

Mid January Northern Report

Bar one little blip just after the New Year, the northern weather has remained generally favourable in recent days. Unfortunately a cold snap cost us a 'well filled' Sunday meeting at Kelso, but I've four meetings to catch up with from the last week or so.

CATTERICK - Wednesday January 11th

Going - Good to Soft

The staying beginners' chase might have yielded a couple of fair chasers. BEST LEGEND raced prominently and then forged on from three out. He was made to work hard by a tenacious second, but held on all out. He’s lightly raced for a 10 year old, having been pointing in 2007 in Ireland before going absent for four years. This was the fourth race his trainer had managed to get into him in recent weeks, and the experience seems to be doing no harm. He has a chance of picking up a staying novice chase under a penalty.
RIVER D'OR has had some tougher tasks than this handicap company. He found the winner apparently getting away three out, but a sustained effort from before the last saw him go close. Unlike the winner he has years on his side and, now that he is operating at a more reasonable level, he showed enough to suggest a similar race is within his compass.
DOVE HILL showed promise on chasing debut early last year, but dropped away down the far side. He has ability and I hope this was temporary blip.

COUNTESS COMET made a pleasing debut in the two mile novices' hurdle. It should be noted that two of the major players the contest but the winner did things well enough. She would certainly be strong contender under a penalty in any mares' novice event. The second MAGIC CAT is warming to his task over hurdles. He was left in the lead when the favourite departed two out, but an untidy jump at the last cost him.
Previous winner STAR IN FLIGHT looked likely to take the race, but unseated when coming clear two out. He has plenty of pace but his jumping technique could be improved.

The North Yorkshire Grand National over 3m 6f was won by a maiden chaser in POSH BIRD. It is worth noting that one of her previous best efforts was on her only other try over an extended trip when second over 3m 4f at Down Royal. She stayed on well and was in little trouble once taking over two out, suggesting that she has now found her forte and that this won't be her only chase win.
COOL MISSION was another trying an extended trip for the first time, and he performed soundly in finishing second. A stumble three out didn't help, but on balance he was second best. He's certainly worth looking at in similar contests on the northern circuit.
APACHE BLUE has jumped up the ratings in recent times and may have found the last increase a little beyond him, though third place was no disgrace. He can still find easier races off his mark of 110.
DYSTONIAS REVENGE needs the field to come back to him and never got into the contest here. He kept on up the straight without threatening the leaders. DERMATOLOGISTE won a lesser event over the trip at Bangor, but never got in a serious blow in the last mile. PEGASUS PRINCE was stepped up in trip and probably found it beyond him. He's got speed at shorter trips and a drop back down would do no harm.
STAR BEAT raced in the lead for a long way but, having been overtaken down the far side, found his chance had gone by the home turn.
HENNESSY didn't show much interest here, driven along early and pulled up before the sixteenth. He's been well behind in his last four races and it may be time to draw stumps.

NEXT TO NOWHERE won the two mile novices' handicap chase, but was third best on the day and very lucky. Having been left in the lead three out, he looked likely to be second to ZAZAMIX before that one came down at the last. Even then fast finishing GENTLEMAN JEFF nearly got up on the line.
I wouldn’t get over excited about any of the above trio, but OTTO QUERCUS went really well in front until hitting three out and coming down. He ran creditably behind Red Tanber at Musselburgh before Christmas, and should be capable of finding consolation for this.

The bumper form should turn out to be solid. Alan Swinbank's BIG WATER whizzed past Donald McCain's SMADYNIUM close home. Both youngsters have enough in pedigree and looks to suggest they can make a mark over hurdles, though they can be placed to win in similar company to this before going over obstacles. James Ewart's UEUETEOTL was found wanting for pace in the final furlongs, but he will probably be seen to better effect on a stiffer track.

MUSSELBURGH - Friday January 13th

Going - Good

The groundstaff at Musselburgh have won the Groundstaff of the Year Award in the Dual Purpose course category, with Ascot in second place. They have regularly produced an excellent surface for racing, and once again good ground prevailed for this meeting.

All races on the card were sponsored by Country Refreshments who provide on course catering at Musselburgh.

12.40 2m Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

A run of the mill maiden to open the card and many will struggle to make any mark over jumps.

WHITE FUSION had raced too keenly when pulled up at Wetherby first time over hurdles. He raced prominently here but not over keenly, battling hard to hold on from two others after taking over the lead after three out. I suspect he will need to stick to this sort of ground to show his best over hurdles.
ARTISAN pushed the winner hard from three out and went down fighting hard, while BOWDLER'S MAGIC rallied well after being headed in the straight. The pair would have some chance of picking up a similar contest.
The favourite LEMON DROP RED was found wanting from before the last. Three times a winner over 1m 4f on the flat, it could be that a slightly stiffer test is required over hurdles.
MAKBULLET, considered good enough to contest a Class 2 hurdle here last time, was held on the flat.
Big gelding ZARU wouldn't be seen to his best around here, so he takes some credit some four lengths back in sixth.
PAS TROP TARD, noted after his Kelso run, was held up before unseating at the sixth.

1.10 2m Beginners' Chase (Class 5)

This wasn't a bad event Class 5 contest and I suspect future winners will come out of it.

CHARMINSTER showed promise at Sedgefield and asserted from two out on this occasion. He's been well placed to date by his shrewd trainer, not finishing out of the first two in six attempts under Rules. Further success awaits and it wouldn’t be a complete surprise to see him back here for the 2m 4f contest on Cheltenham Trials Day.
DEGAS ART jumped deliberately early on, but settled into a better rhythm as the race went on. He kept on after the winner from three out though unable to make an impression. He struggled a bit when sent chasing previously, but showed some promise here, and time might show the form to be more than respectable.
VOSGES led until three out, where a mistake didn't help his cause, and he could only keep on at one pace afterwards. He's not been disgraced in any of his attempts over fences, and a handicap may be his best chance.
BOGSIDE jumped untidily early on and never got into the race, while JUST MADDIE found the company too exacting here and needs to be aimed at novice handicaps.

1.40 2m Selling Hurdle (Class 5)

DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN acquired blinkers here, a surprise to me since he's always seemed honest enough. I suspect the drop in class did the trick as he was able to gallop this selling field into submission. I presume came here as his options are more limited given the stiffer all-weather mark limits opportunities at Southwell. This course suits as he can wind up the pace and keeps galloping.
RED SKIPPER briefly threatened in the straight, but a mistake two put paid to his chances of catching the winner. He's not a prolific winner for one blessed with some ability.
Juvenile PHILHARMONIC HALL disappointed, well held from three out.
KICKAHEAD, one with a fair record at a lowly level over hurdles, was weak in the market and took a keen hold under restraint. He unseated at the fourth.

2.10 2m 4f (85-102) Handicap Chase

RED TANBER made it three chase wins in a row around here, hardly turning in hair in seeing off three opponents on this occasion. He came readily clear from two out and I wouldn't think his new mark of 108 should stop him winning again. Another opportunity presents itself over the course and distance on January 25th.
MARKADAM confirmed his hurdles win was no fluke, performing soundly in taking second place. There's a chance he can find a similar contest if he avoids a progressive type.
BAAHER was a lucky winner here earlier in the season and was comfortably held in the straight on this occasion.
BALLYMACDUFF, having show improved form over hurdles last time, does not convince over fences and faded from five out.

2.40 3m 110yds (70-95) Handicap Hurdle

VIA ARCHIMEDE broke his duck over hurdles, leading all the way and hanging on after kicking on before three out. This form does not inspire since the three who finished close behind, AUBERGE, HOTGROVE BOY and VELVET VIC can boast only one win between them in 58 attempts.
FORCEFIELD had conditions and class in his favour but unseated at the eighth flight.
RAINING HORSE found things no easier over hurdles than he has done in chases and was well beaten.

3.10 3m (99-125) Handicap Chase

I had EVERAARD marked out as a bit of a plodder. Evidence suggests that, particularly around Musselburgh, that is slightly unfair and he took his record here to 3 wins from efforts. Chasing the leader to the last he summoned up a decent finish and snatched the race on the line.
MORE EQUITY looked the winner up the straight only to be pipped close home. This was her best effort of recent times.
KOSTA BRAVA picked his way through the field late on but never got near the leaders. His racing has been done over shorter distances, but this effort does at least hint that he cane be effective over this trip.
SEIZE got to the tails of the leaders four out, but could make no impression from there.
ROSSINI'S DANCER should get involved at this level, but he made too many jumping errors on this occasion.
FRED BOJANGALS never got in a blow, and I'd be surprised if there's anything to be gained by running him at this trip.
SAFARI ADVENTURES led for over two miles then gave way. He doesn't appear to stay the three miles and needs dropping back at least half a mile.

3.40 2m NH Flat Race (Class 6)

KEENELAND came into this race with one 4yos point behind him in Ireland, such contests apparently acting as a shop window for selling on these days. That being said he was a 100,000 Euro purchase as a yearling and £25,000 at Cheltenham in December. He was plenty sharp enough to take this race, quickening two out and holding off a single pursuer. The McCain stable is flying this season, there's jump winning blood in the family and he's in good hands.
PHOENIX RETURNS had hinted at ability previously but may need more time to be seen at his best.
The third HARRIS GARDEN is jump bred and should make more impact given time.

AYR - Tuesday January 17th

Going - Good to soft, Good in places)

Ayr was able to offer decent ground at a time of year when they normally race with a fair bit of cut. The first fence in the straight has now appeared, but the next fence is yet to be constructed.

To save on typing (!), I'll acknowledge at the start that all races were sponsored by Betvictor.com.

1.10 2m Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

LEXI'S BOY ran no sort of race first time out over hurdles when pulled up at Kelso, but was on his game here with the race won before the last. He looks good enough to progress from here, presuming any problem is behind him.
FIND A KEY was held by the winner, but this Hexham bumper winner did enough to suggest that a maiden or novice victory is well within his powers.
GOODLUKIN LUCY led the field a merry gallop to three out and kept on once headed. She would be of interest in mares' only company and can be placed to advantage by under-rated trainer Maurice Barnes.
Massive gelding TUTCHEC seems to be getting the hang of things and showed promise with a fourth place. He caught the eye at Hexham in the spring as a long term prospect, with a big frame to fill, and the pieces are slowly falling into place.

1.40 2m 4f Novices' Chase (Class 3)

YES TOM, a winner here over hurdles last year, won this race in the style of a fair performer, easing clear in the straight. He fell last time in a big field, but the form of his fourth looks pretty decent, the winner having acquitted himself respectably in two Grade 2 events.
BLENHEIM BROOK might just have run into a decent performer, and in any case is giving the impression that he needs three miles to be most effective. He was tapped for speed from the home turn but kept on.
DOWD'S DESTINY was held from three out, but he finished lame.
STORMING GALE led early but quickly dropped back when headed at the eighth and was pulled up before three out.

2.15 3m 1f (85-104) Handicap Chase

Visored for the first time, ALLANARD was not threatened from four out. A rise for this win might take him out of his comfort zone.
Course specialist SAMMY SPIDERMAN may have wanted the ground a bit softer as his wins here have come in deeper ground. Allowing for that then this was a good effort.
Irish runners MAPLE VALLEY GALE and BALLYCARRON LAD chased the leader four out but could never get in a challenging position.
QUINDER SPRING was well off his game in a well beaten fifth, his decent form being on softer ground.
ISHLANA was pulled up at the thirteenth. She took a long time to break her duck in Irish points and her Rules form is uninspiring.
DUKE OF MALFI, who had appeared not to stay 21 furlongs on two occasions, unsurprisingly didn't see out this trip. Back to the minimum trip, methinks!

2.40 3m 110yds (95-105) Handicap Hurdle

SHOOTING TIMES, a winner here last March over a slightly shorter trip, returned to form after some lack lustre efforts. He came to challenge between the last two and held on well. His Ayr form has been significantly better than his runs elsewhere.
GLEANN NA NDOCHAIS cruised into contention before three out, but was then asked a question as the winner loomed before the last. He hadn't been asked a serious finishing question in his previous races and inexperienced showed here as he wandered approaching the last. Getting his act together, he rallied again after the last flight and stayed on. I'm sure he can win another handicap before long.
DELIGHTFULLY had every chance between the last two but was held on the flat. He's an exposed sort favoured by a stiffer test of stamina these days, mud and an uphill finish being a help.
Exposed RISK RUNNER ran passably well if held approaching the last, while EASTER VIC was tapped for speed from two out.

3.10 2m 4f (74-98) Novices' Handicap Hurdle

A moderate event won in decent style by TOTAL REBELLION who had hinted at ability on his previous outing. Now handicapped he was able to find his level here, and I suspect not having to climb the North face of the Eig..., sorry Towcester hill, may have helped.
HARRY HANDSOME caught the eye when I first saw him in the spring. He's gradually coming to hand and has enough about him to get in the mix in a similar company, with prospects of making up into a chaser in time.
Sophie Leech isn't frightened to notch up the horse box miles from here Gloucestershire yard, and OLD MAGIC has done plenty of travelling having run at Newton Abbot, Carlisle and Exeter in recent times. He kept on from two out and may need a stiffer test of stamina, though he failed to make an impact over three miles in Ireland.
Once again well backed by optimist followers, DICKIE HENDERHOOP fell at the seventh when well in touch. There are people out there who have presumably seen something that I've missed.
Inconsistent STORMION had a non going day and was well beaten, while SYDNEY COVE looked another Nick Alexander horse just a gallop or two short of his best.

3.40 2m 4f (89-115) Handicap Chase (Conditional Jockeys)

OCKEY DE NEULLIAC, lightly raced for a ten-year-old, is a handsome animal who hadn't quite fulfilled promise over fences. He beat a small field here in impressive style and might just need things his own way, as he picked off his opponents in the straight.
BANOGE stayed on for second but had no chance with the winner.
SOMETHING SILVER generally needs a race or two after a break. This second race might have put him straight, and he has a good record at Ayr.
ALEXANDER OATS was never going with any ease and the enigmatic PRIMROSE TIME slipped back into frustrating mode in a well held fifth place.

4.10 2m NH Flat (Class 6)

Two pulled well clear in this six runner contest.

Irish trained YOUNG PALM is first foal of a once raced but well related mare who appears to have passed on family talent. He strode clear in the final furlong and the Crawford yard has a fair prospect on their hands.
HOWABOUTNOW set the standard with is Bangor win and wasn't disgraced in second. The maiden point-to-point he won in Ireland was a weak affair, but he is bred to be at his best with a test of stamina and has established a sound base in bumpers.
BLAZIN WHITE FACE had been entered in a staying mares' novice hurdle at Kelso's abandoned meeting, and presumably came to this to get a race into here. Outpaced in the straight, she will show up better once hurdling over a distance of ground.

CATTERICK - Friday January 20th

Going - Good To Soft (Soft in places)

ENDEAVOR won the opening handicap hurdle and Dianne Sayer has done well to get four wins out of this one who was still only on a mark of 83. He can be a cussed soul on occasions, having given problems at the start on a few occasions. He idled once in front, not exerting himself any more than absolutely required, but is capable at this level and won't be overweighted after reassessment.

STOPPED OUT once again found one too good in the beginners' chase over 2m 3f, Venetia Williams's CARRICKBOY being too good on this occasion. The second had a decent win record over hurdles and should find a chase eventually. CAPTAIN PAULIE is probably better than fourth place here suggests but has proved adept at hiding his ability since arriving from Ireland. He kept on late without threatening.

RUDEMEISTER stayed on to deny FINNEGAN PADDY close home in the staying novices hurdle and is progressing nicely for Andrew Parker. Penalised SOUDAIN was held from two out, but he may well be one to remember if he goes chasing.
QUEL ELITE showed promise last season, but his last two runs suggests he may have a physical problem as he's struggled to get involved at the business end and hung badly right up the straight here. Caution is advised until he hints at something better.

ALTAN KHAN was a comfortable winner of what seemed a competitive Class 3 two mile chase. He led before the last and had plenty in hand on the run-in if idling a bit. He looks best around the minimum trip at sharp tracks.
LATERLY set a decent pace and stuck at his task up the home straight. Competing for the early lead with CARRIETAU, he quickly got the better of that one who is inclined to lose heart if taken on. Laterly had most of the field beaten but couldn't hold the winner, though this was a sound effort and he would be shoo-in for a small field contest.
FREDDIE BROWN raced near the pace and kept on at one pace for third, though once again unable to raise his game at the business end.
RED KINGDOM kept on for third, giving the impression he would have a chance in lower class, but his overall record is not encouraging.

ALLOW ME found the stiffer test here over 2m 3f preferable to the sharp two miles at Musselburgh. He raced handily, took over two out and galloped on from that point. Given chances at this sort of distance I believe he will continue to progress.
Consistent TEENAGE IDOL is a good marker in second, while SHADOWS LENGTHEN flattered for a while around two out but could only keep on for third. Lightly raced DISTIME picked up places through the field late on, should benefit from this experience might be worth considering in similar company.

In first time blinkers BARDOLET had the staying handicap chase (3m 1f 110yds) in safe keeping from three out having dictated the pace most of the way, being heavily eased on the run-in. I suspect he is best when taking on inferiors and future prospects depend on how the handicapper judges this.
Well exposed 'old soak' TOULOUSE EXPRESS had a going day, keeping on for second having been taken wide in typical Kenny Johnson fashion. It would be nice if Toulouse Express could step up on this next time as it will be his 100th race, and he does boast a record which has seen 9 wins and 22 second or third places.
BEAU DANDY has time on his side as a seven year old and third here was a creditable effort on only his fifth Rules effort, and first in a handicap. He has won a couple of points and in John Wade's hands he's likely to land a small staying handicap.
SAMSON COLLONGES probably has speed to win a race like this, but his jumping wasn't good enough to permit serious involvement.
FEELING PECKISH is only 8 and his record of outings already eclipses that of Toulouse Express. This was his 108th race in all disciplines, but he wouldn't go down as strong betting material with a solitary Ludlow win to show for his exertions.
Musselburgh winner DEFINITE APPEAL wasn't completely out of the contest when unseating four out.

DOYLY CARTE won the bumper in impressive style. The opposition won't go down as the strongest, the second and third looking long term projects, but she could no more than beat it comfortably. She is a half-sister to Dandino out of a half-sister to a French Oaks winner, so you would expect plenty of speed around the minimum trip over jumps. She might conceivably be worth a try in a Flat maiden in the spring.
CRANBERRY ICE is being brought along steadily by John Wade and confirmed Carlisle promise with a respectable second here.
CLASSIC RALLY looks one to carry forward for the future. A big long striding type, he won't have been particularly suited by this track but kept on in the closing stages, despite showing signs of greenness. He's bred to need further than the minimum trip and will come into his own once going jumping.
Back in sixth place BACH PEDDLING hinted at ability, keeping on past a few late on to give connections hope for the future.

ONES TO NOTE

RED TANBER - notched up the hat-trick with the comfort that suggests he hasn't finished winning yet.
POSH BIRD – Second and first from two tries at 3m 4f+ and worth persisting with at extended trips.
DISTIME - promising fourth on handicap hurdling bow and should benefit from the experience
BEAU DANDY - creditable third on handicap chasing bow and capable of picking up a handicap chase.

Musselburgh rings in the New year

MUSSELBURGH - Sunday January 1st

Going - Good (Good to Soft in places)

Having been at a Hogmanay Ceilidh to welcome in the New Year, I have to admit I didn't make the effort to get to the New Year's Day meeting at Musselburgh. Channel 4 covered the two feature races and I picked up the remainder from Racing UK replays.

The meeting saw the final of the New Year Sprint, reputedly the oldest established professional sprint event in the world. The event is a handicap with heats held at Musselburgh the previous day, then 4 'cross-ties' (sort of semi-finals!) and the final held shortly before the feature horse race. This year's winner was a handicap blot in Graeme Lister of Kirkcaldy A.C. who "improved five metres in training" according to his coach. Starting off a mark of 12.5 metres in front of 'Scratch', he duly triumphed by approximately 5 metres, taking control from halfway. Other events were held the previous day, and from the times of various events I guess it might be worth keeping an eye out for the 90m Youths Sprint winner BEN ROBBINS who won the event off 3.5m in a time of 10.28 seconds. That seems quite sharp for sprinting on grass and Edinburgh Athletic club member Robbins is only 15 so there should be better to come.

12.10 2m 4f (84-102) Handicap Hurdle

The horse racing card opened with a very moderate handicap hurdle. MARKADAM's previous win was a moderate Members' point. He had shown a little promise in a novice event here on his previous outing and stayed on well in the closing stages. It's questionable how good the form is though, since the second BALLYMACDUFF has been out of form and most of the others have question marks or black marks against them. Top weight WOODMORE was well held from two out, and won't find many cushier opportunities, while LEITH WALK ran to type, staying on late without threatening the leaders.

12.45 3m (69-95) Handicap Chase

Otterburn trainer Susan Corbett recorded her first Rules winner as DEFINITE APPEAL was driven out to beat a small field of 'characters'. Twice a winner of points last year, the suggestion on the evidence of two hunter chases outings was that he was not totally straightforward, but he has ability for this level and is capable of scoring again. He was ably partnered here by Jakub Kocman.
TEARS FROM HEAVEN chased the leader from three out but was held in the latter stages. This was a better show than his previous two chasing efforts and good or faster ground definitely helps him.
LINDSEYFIELD LODGE bowled along in front until four out, but the towel hit the ring quickly once he was passed. He probably still has enough in him to win at this level, but it's anyone's guess if and when he can be bothered.
SADDLE PACK looked an ideal type for this contest but faded disappointingly in the straight. It's possible a stiff 2m 4f might be best but I'm a bit wary of him now.
HURRICANE JACK couldn’t dominate as he had done here last time and looked less than keen on the last circuit.
RAINING HORSE raced prominently, but his jumping once again let him down as the race progressed, two howlers down the far side taking the stuffing out of him before he was pulled up entering the straight.

1.15 2m Novices' Hurdle (Class 3)

On the book this was a contest between Bourne and Eagle Rock, but KAOLAK spoiled the party. Not taking to chasing, and a bit frustrating over hurdles, he put his best foot forward to hold off Eagle Rock. It may be that his confidence is boosted, but I'm not sure I'd want to get involved at short prices about this one. EAGLE ROCK stayed on for a close second and might need a stiffer test.
BOURNE was left behind from three out and this form bore no relation to his Catterick effort. That was over 2m 3f though and it would seem safe to conclude that he's another who needs a stiffer test, particularly as he saw out 1m 5f well enough on the flat.

1.50 3m 110yds (92-118) Handicap Hurdle

An exposed collection of performers contested this with occasional winner EVERAARD forging clear of a similar type in VALLANI. The pair are part of group who regularly contest these events, with no guarantee of repeat form next time.
MORE EQUITY was third, and is another who's thereabouts on occasion but not a prolific winner. She goes best at Kelso.
SOPRANO was disappointing back in fifth having run some decent races of late.

2.25 2m (105-150) Hogmaneigh Handicap Hurdle

This was a decent contest and due reward for a course prepared to put up decent prize money on a regular basis. However it was run a slow pace, significantly slower than the novice event, so it's questionable how valuable the form is going forward.
PALAWI dictated the pace and had enough in hand to battle back when headed in the straight. I would imagine that John Quinn will be searching events in the 0-140 class where he's at the head of the handicap as I'm not sure he will cope with tougher contests.
NINE STORIES was another who raced prominently and stayed on to hold second, just ahead of ALSAHIL who is a keen going sort who will not have been suited by the slow pace. The latter might have more improvement in him than some in the race.
The key performance here might have been that of GORDONSVILLE who wouldn't have been suited by the dawdle. He stayed on for fourth, but would need a strong pace or a step up in distance. He goes so well here that Jim Goldie might be looking for opportunities at upcoming meetings. He could be a possible for the Scottish County Hurdle as I can't see any contests over 2m 4f on the programme, the Class 3 event on the same card being a 0-120.
A few others such as DESERT CRY and MARSH WARBLER weren't suited by the slow pace here and tapped for speed in the closing stages.

3.00 2m 4f (118-140) Honest Toun Handicap Chase

In contrast to the previous race this contest was run at a rattling good pace. FIENDISH FLAME was always in command despite a pretty lousy round of jumping. The fences are very soft here this season, and he got away with errors he wouldn't have survived elsewhere. A bad error two out made no difference as the race was in safekeeping assuming he got home.
PREMIER SAGAS ran a sound enough race in second but never got to the winner, though staying on in the closing stages. He will be suited by a stiffer track and is capable of taking a race in a similar class.
RIGUEZ DANCER was another who kept on late, and a stiffer track or softer ground would probably help him.
QUICUYO chased the winner for much of the race but was held form four out. His mark of 137 might be as high as he needs to go.
JOHN FORBES never got seriously into the race after being hampered at the first. Fifth place probably wasn't a bad effort under the circumstances and he's better than the bare form suggests.
PHIDIPPIDES raced keenly, made mistakes and never looked like justifying the confidence shown in the market.
Two went at the first fence, which wouldn't have helped the slower starters, ALDERLEY ROVER landing steeply falling and KOSTA BRAVE stumbling and unseating.
MONTOYA'S SON had course and conditions to suit but race no sort of race. FRED BOJANGALS had a tough task in this class and he can be a moody sort if asked to work overhard.
QUITO DU TRESOR chased the leader for a long way but folded tamely approaching four out, eventually being pulled up before two out. He has had an easy ride or dictated the pace when winning, and this form may be set aside if the shape of the race is right in future.

3.30 2m NH Flat Race (Class 6)

As is so often the case in these contests, there no pace early on and the race really only started seven furlongs out. Nicky Richards' newcomer ABBEY GARTH was eased into contention two furlongs out. He held off a previously raced runner-up with the rest well held. How good the form is remains to be seen, but this was a sound start and Abbey Garth should benefit from the run.
GEORGE FERNBECK battled determinedly but was held close home by a slightly better opponent. His breeding is a mix of 7f to staying blood, so there is a fair chance he will see out more than two miles.
Nothing special from the remainder on the day. MILL BAY was well held when third behind Rendl Beach here and pretty much ran to that level here. He will probably be suited by middle distances over jumps.

AYR - Monday January 2nd

Going - Soft (Heavy in places)

Day one of this meeting went ahead, field sizes significantly reduced from last year as there has been plenty of action recently. Day two was blown away, the official reason being a windblown tree threatening the Racetech van, though fearsome weather through Scotland made travel anything between unadvisable and very dangerous. Lucinda Russell's box couldn't get far west and turned around in the conditions, Nick
Alexander didn't risk departure, and Sandy Forster encountered alarming conditions before turning around before reaching the Edinburgh by-pass. The conditions had improved in the west by the afternoon, but travel considerations were surely as important as course conditions.

Only two fences have been built in the straight so far this season, so there's a long run from the third last in chases.

12.20 2m 4f EBF Novices' Hurdle (Class 4)

Effectively a two horse contest and NUTS N' BOLTS probably just had the edge on SUPER DUTY when the latter came down at the last. The latter has been rated 133 and it doesn’t seem unreasonable to rate the former near to that. They look to be a useful pair of staying novices and Lucinda Russell now aims to step the winner up to three miles.
HIGGS BOSON couldn't match the first two but had a nice trundle round in third and will benefit from the experience. There are bumper/hurdles winners in the family and he did enough to suggest he'll be competitive against less exacting opposition.
Willie Young's IF EVER added another P to his pod, finding this way too tough from halfway.

12.50 2m victorchandler.com Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

GETTING READY made up for his unfortunate forced exit at Kelso. He wasn't very fluent at the final three hurdles, but he came clear comfortably and should improve.
GUESS AGAIN put in a solid effort to follow his decent Carlisle debut. He should find a maiden hurdle within his scope.
AMRON LAD was outpaced in the straight. He's probably more of a long term project than the first two and is bred to be a chaser. He was disqualified form second in a Dromohane 4yo geldings maiden last season, his rider failing to weigh in, but the form has worked out quite well with first, third and fourth past the post all running creditably since.

1.25 2m 5f Watch Live Racing At victorchandler.com Beginners' Chase (Class 4)

DOWD'S DESTINY was always handy, led two out and was clear at the last. He had a couple of runs in 07/08 but was then off the track until autumn 2010. He's only had a handful of runs since then, but clearly has plenty of ability and can make up for lost time over fences if staying fit.
CIRCUS CLOWN was held on official ratings by the winner and didn't jump well enough to get close. He needs to be bit sharper over his fences, but has prospects going forward and more time on his side than the winner.
Most significant run here was arguably that of ALFRED OATS. Pulled up in a maiden point at Friars Haugh in April, where he raced prominently for 2m 2f, he's been given time by the patient Robert Goldie. He couldn't match two fair opponents, but kept on well for third place. His trainer got Rules wins out of half-brothers Alexander Oats and Easter Vic, so this one is one for the notebook.
QUACITY led until the final straight but quickly capitulated. He was close in a moderate novices' handicap last time and has better chances in that company. Back in fifth, CASSIUS jumped slowly and hasn't offered encouragement over fences or hurdles of late.

1.55 2m 4f Bet Mobile at victorchandler.com (97-119) Handicap Chase

BENE LAD has threatened to win a similar event this season and came good given distance and conditions that suit. He jumped really well and was comfortable from the home turn. He's gone up to 107 after this run, but that does keep him in the same class.
ET MAINTENANT kept on up the straight to finish second without threatening the winner. He's now on his lowest mark for three years and hinted here at a return to form.
DEUTERONOMY led or disputed until two out from which point he was put in his place. He's 2 wins from 30 and doesn't make exciting betting material.
SIBENEK and PROSECCO were firmly put in their place up the straight. NELSON DU RONCERAY ran in two point-to-points last year, but doesn't stay three miles so prospects were limited. He went well enough for over a circuit, but dropped away and it remains to be seen whether he retains enough ability to win handicaps.

2.25 2m 4f Bet Live at victorchandler.com (105-130) Handicap Hurdle

TEENAGE IDOL, bandaged in front as I believe he has been before, was in control from three out and stayed on nicely for victory. He goes well here, this was a third course win, though is generally consistent anyway.
LOS NADIS's options are limited without putting in some motorway miles now he's rated 130. His nine lengths second was a decent effort given that he's not at his best on really soft ground, and he would still have win possibilities if Jim Goldie can find a 0-130 or 0-135 hurdle on good ground.
THE STARBOARD BOW lost touch from three out and is proving difficult to place.
KEMPSKI couldn't dominate and was struggling with a mile to go.

3.00 2m Play Casino at victorchandler.com (88-109) Handicap Hurdle

CARTERS REST was clear from two out and recorded a first jumps win at the sixteenth attempt. The solidly built BUNRATTY kept on for second and has always looked to me as if he needs farther than two miles.
DRAMATIC JEWEL, KING'S CHORISTER, FUNKY MUNKY and SHERIFF HALL followed the first two in that order, all capable on their day but held in the handicapper's straitjacket for now.
The novice NOWURHURLIN disappointed for the second time in a row since his win at Carlisle.

3.35 3m 110yds Best Odds Guaranteed at Victor Chandler (69-95) Novices' Handicap Hurdle

KNOCKANDO was a clear winner of this contest. He'd not gone close before but ground and trip were helpful. Weak opposition might well have helped too, REALIGNMENT running a fair race in second but held from two out, his two runs here a bit better than efforts in Ireland.
FORCEFIELD faded from three out and Nick Alexander has promised to search out better ground for him. Remember that!

SEDGEFIELD - Thursday January 5th

A card full of 'the same old suspects' and not one from which I'll take a lot forward.

GOING WRONG was winner of what looked a fair two mile novices' chase holding off REALT MOR on the run from the last. The latter won an Irish point and a novice hurdle and should win chases.
KING O' THE GYPSIES was never travelling well but kept on to pass the weakening LATERLY for third. The former has looked hard work over fences to date but a step up in trip might help.

ONIZ TIPTOES stayed on to win the 3m 3f handicap hurdle, a slog which saw him just pip FRONTIER BOY. The latter would likely be suited by a return to chasing, though it's dependent on suitable opportunities over a distance of ground. Frustrating stayed MATMATA DE TENDRON looked in trouble two out but stuck on to bustle up the first two on the run-in.

There were two finishers in the two mile handicap chase. Improving TIME OUT saw off the gallant veteran POLAR GUNNER. The former looks capable of picking up another handicap, while the latter keeps his enthusiasm and shows enough to suggest there might be one last hurrah.

NEWCASTLE - Saturday January 7th

NEGUS DE BEAUMONT finally broke his chasing duck at the age of 11. He just held off UPTHEMSTEPS, though you have to feel that the latter would be the one to take out of this contest.

This was a low quality card and I found very little to get excited about. Most of the handicaps were contesting by exposed performers and the one or two I was keeping an eye out for were below their best.

SEEKING POWER plugged on at his own pace in the three mile chase, but this huge gelding needs four miles in the mud and a stiff track. Hexham’s four mile chase in Cheltenham week will presumably be the target, a race he went close in last year.
BEAR DANCING has been disappointing this season and was never going, being pulled up a long way from home.
Winner PLAYING THE FIELD is the youngest of these at seven and could be on the upgrade. SAMMY SPIDERMAN was second, seems in reasonable heart and would be of interest if taking in a race at his favourite Ayr, particularly in the mud.

MY ARCH struggled in the staying hurdle, but the gluey ground here won’t have helped him. He can do better on a sounder surface.
PAPAMOA was scrubbed along for much of the way and could only plug on for fourth. Nick Alexander’s string look a bit short of their peak at the moment.

Donald Whillans's string has been running respectably of late, and he unveiled a dark one in chasing newcomer SHADOW BOXER. He won a weak 2m 4f Class 5 chase without turning a hair and there should be a significant amount to come. He’ll get another go at this level and should take the beating.

LUCEMATIC rates as the cheekiest of winners, Denis O’Regan letting out just the slightest amount of rein to allow her to ease past ARIZONA RIVER in the mares’ bumper. The winner’s dam was nothing special, but she was related to jumps winners and her daughter might trouble much tougher opposition. The runner-up wasn’t disgraced.
MADAME BLAVATSKY who finished fifth is sparely made type and it was no surprise that she struggled in the soft. She may prove better back on faster ground.

ONES TO NOTE

TIME OUT – remains on the list and continues in the right direction
GORDONSVILLE – struggled off a slow pace at Musselburgh and can do better in the right race, either with a few frontrunners to set it up or over 2m 4f.
FORCEFIELD – has found the going a bit tough last two runs. A possible for a minor staying handicap hurdle on good to soft or better ground.
ALFRED OATS – Made a pleasing Rules debut and his small yard can prise a maiden or novice chase out of this one.