PERTH – Thursday 24 April 2008
Going –Good To Soft
Morning rain meant the going eased to good to soft, and there were showers during the after, a particularly after the third race. The ultra-keen Course Manager Sam Morshead even gave up on his presentation during the latter downpour!
As is often the case at this time of year it was difficult to tie down winners in some races. It’s a mix of horses blossoming in the spring, and those which have been on the go starting to fade.
2.10 2m 0.5f Novices’ Hurdle
This race basically involved four competitors and five make-weights.
LAZY DARREN won this nicely enough, making progress down the back straight, leading between the last two and staying on for victory. His third at Aintree looked decent enough and so it proved.
FRANK CROW’s last two runs had been disappointing. However, he was more on his game in this event. He’s an easy going sort, bright and alert in the paddock and settled well. Although finding Lazy Darren too strong he kept on well for second and, given that he has only had the one win, there must be scope for placing him in the near future.
QUICUYO looks a strong type who might go on to make a chaser in time. Found the first two a bit quick in the straight but wasn’t disgraced. Behind him, COOL OPERATOR ran up to previous form in fourth.
Of the others there is a glimmer of hope for STEEL MAN. His previous form was dire, but on this occasion he was at the head of affairs until weakening quickly after the sixth flight. He had a wind problem previously and, assuming this has been attended too, may have the ability to win a seller.
Hurdles debutant ART INVESTOR showed nothing significant.
2.45 2m Handicap Chase
COACH LANE looked an absolute picture in the paddock. He’s a strong, handsome sort. The pace was strong here, Coach Lane being raced up with the leaders. He led 2 out and looked as if he’d win with a bit to spare. However, Yankee Holiday pressed him on the run-in, the pair finishing well clear.
YANKEE HOLIDAY is a bit of a quirky character, with two handlers in the paddock and pulling hard as usual going down. That being said he normally gives a decent account of himself on the track, coming late here to bustle up the winner close home. He will presumably be campaigned in similar races here over the summer.
ORMELLO had every chance but didn’t have enough pace over the last two. He ran well enough though and may be another to contest similar events here in the coming months.
LOCH OSCAIG ran creditably enough but a rise in the weights may have stopped him. He looked at peak fitness here, so this may be as good as he is. He moved up on the inside three out, but couldn’t go with Coach Lane.
BILLYANDI was made favourite, presumably on the strength of his trainer’s show on the first day, but was never a factor. A mark that sometimes horse can be favoured because of the trainer, but that ignores the form book facts.
MANHATTAN BOY has ability, but was very cussed on this occasion. Mounted on the track, he planted and needed extreme encouragement, his rider eventually bumping him a furlong or two with feet out of the irons. Somewhere along the line Manhattan Boy sustained a cut mouth. The injury was cleaned up at the start, but the fuss couldn’t have helped and he was behind early.
NORTHERN QUEST was another who wasn’t particularly co-operative. He went down early, the rider going a couple of furlongs with feet out of the irons. He was pulled up 2 out.
BEGGARS CAP was well fancied but very disappointing.
3.20 3m 0.5f Class 2 Novices’ Hurdle
According to Sam Morshead, this was highest rated hurdle ever to take place at Perth. It was certainly a decent event, a good second tier target for those just off the top of the staying novice ranks.
The pace was steady early and only picked up going on to the final circuit. The leader was local challenger SILVER BY NATURE. I had this one down as an interesting prospect when he won the bumper here last year. I’ve never quite fathomed him since then, but he was just a little bit out of his class and faded in the straight, being eased when beaten.
LODGE LANE battled well to hold the favourite TAZBAR in a tight finish. Neither lost anything in a fine race and both look useful prospects for the future.
VIKING REBEL matched the front two until the last and then gave way.
Significantly, PRIDE OF DULCOTE goes into next season still a novice hurdler. Given that he was so close to three useful previous winners, he looks a shoo-in in a bog standard staying novice event. Only a 5yo too, so there would seem much to come from this gelding.
OH PICKLES found the company too tough, being the first to drop out of contention.
3,55 3m Class 2 Handicap Chase
A cracker of a staying handicap chase, quite possibly the strongest ever to be staged at Perth. Last year’s renewal was won by Dream Alliance who went on to finish second in the Hennessy at Newbury.
This race was one in gritty style by ERIC’S CHARM. Having taken the lead four out he looked likely to be settling for a place in the straight, but battled back most tenaciously after the last to head the leader almost on the line.
The 11 year old BROOKLYN BREEZE looked sure to take this prize when leading 2 out. He hadn’t won for a couple of years, but ran a cracker here, and the suggestion is there’s still a handicap chase in him.
BROOKLYN BROWNIE ran a fine race in third, the first two getting away on the flat. He raced prominently in a race which was run at a decent pace, so I suspect this was a significant performance. He may just be slightly better at a shorter distance.
ST MATTHEW ran well enough without threatening to win. This effort suggests possibilities in less competitive events.
KENZO III was up with the pace from the start and probably paid for that a bit. He weakened in the straight to finish fifth. UNDENIABLE ran a fair race in sixth have been in contention down the back straight on the last circuit. Another who probably found the race a tad too competitive.
BLUE SPLASH made a bad error at the eighth and his rider was unable to recover, so pulled up. Unfortunately his record is littered with errors, though he has won a couple of chases.
STANDIN OBLIGATION ran no sort of race. I have seen it suggested he didn’t like the right handed track, but since he got three vigorous slaps before the first bend had been reached, I’m not sure that was the case. For whatever reason, he wasn’t interested. Much the same could be said for PETITJEAN who hit a couple early and never looked interested.
4.30 3m 7f Hunters’ Chase
The only slight doubt in this contest was whether NATIAIN would stay the extended trip. In the event he had no problem whatsoever, and judging by his comparatively relaxed state in the unsaddling area he could probably have gone round again. His jumping was immaculate and he was basically hunted round, with a gear or two to spare. The second moved up briefly at the 20th fence, but Natiain just upped the pace enough to go clear.
HARLOV ran an honest race in second. Compared to the winner he could have blown a house down afterwards, but then since he would have been receiving two stone plus in a handicap it was understandable. Harlov is a fine stayer at his level, but found the winner way too good.
Vicky Simpson nursed JACKSONVILLE round once he lost touch with the leaders, making sure of third place.
BE UPSTANDING was still up with Natiain when taking a nasty fall 5 out. Fortunately both horse and rider were up quickly, and apparently noe the worse.
KAUSSE DE THAIX and TYNEDALE both jettisond their riders early on, with LOST PROPERTY and UNCLE NEIL not remotely fast enough at this level.
5.50 2m 4.5f Handicap Hurdle
A competitive handicap hurdle to finish the card. The start was held up by the antics of WISE CHOICE. Having jettisoned Dougie Costello, he set off on two circuits of the track the wrong way, and was having none of it when various people encouraged him to stop. He eventually got tired and stopped to walk when his jockey retrieved him, Wise choice having been withdrawn in the meantime. It occurred to me that since he is trained at Glenfarg, if he’d run in a straight line he would have been halfway home!
Anyway back to the race which was won nicely by DE BLANC. He took the race by the scruff of the neck early in the straight, and though the others closed he had a bit to spare at the finish. He has been running creditably this season and recorded a first win for two years. He’s won over hurdles and fences so there’s scope for placing him.
PACHA D’OUDAIRIES was held up, and stayed on for second. He was unlucky on his previous run, and given the run of the race might be expected to record another win soon.
LEGALLY FAST ran a decent race from up with the pace, leading into the straight but one paced once passed. I noted that he was the only blinkered runner on the entire card, which must be unusual for a jumps card with 73 declared.
BOLLIN RUTH kept on for fourth, finding this event a bit tougher than the mares’ only race at Ayr. KEY PHIL has been alternating between hurdling and chasing, running up with the pace for a long way but fading into fifth.
TAMIMI’S HISTORY struggled on a first venture into ‘senior’ handicapping company. He has ability though, and given a race or two it’s likely he will adjust and win a handicap hurdle.
Friday, 25 April 2008
Thursday, 24 April 2008
Perth Festival 2008 - Day One
PERTH – Wednesday April 23 2008
Going – Good
Damp weather but it made no difference to the going which was just right for the first day of the Perth Festival. The meeting plays host to trainers from far and wide, and it was the Cheltenham stable of Nigel Twiston-Davies that stole the day, recording a four-timer.
2.10 2m 4.5f Maiden Hurdle
A low key start to the meeting, with a maiden full of one paced and slow types.
Irish-trained CARRICK DHU made the running here, but his jumping was not that special. However he was still in front when running out at the third last and dumping his rider. He’s had plenty of chances and this run suggests there will always be reasons to oppose this one.
SOLWAY BEE has lacked a bit of pace at the business end, though putting up some fair performances in novice company. She forged clear in the straight to win with a fair bit in hand. Presumably her future now lies in handicap company where she has acquitted herself well previously.
THUNDERWING , although not sticking with the winner, did stay on for second. His efforts over 2 miles suggested a lack of finishing pace so presumably he will be campaigned at tis distance or further now.
GENERAL LEDGER had a chance entering the straight but was then left behind. His form suggests real test of stamina may be needed. He’s a winner of a bumper at Hexham and I wonder if a return to Hexham for a 3 miler may help.
CULCAVY was left behind from 3 out having raced prominently. His record to date does not pick him out as a potential winner.
2.45 3m 0.5f Novices’ Handicap Hurdle
A competitive novices’ handicap hurdle with a quite a few coming into it with promising recent form.
Nigel Twiston-Davies’ THE GREAT ALFIE was restrained at the back for much of the trip, brought through steadily from 3 out and led on the flat to win well. This was only his fourth race over hurdles so, given that the step up in trip clearly suited, it’s likely that his trainer can secure a win or two more.
MY ARCH has performed well this season in novice events in Scotland and the north. He didn’t do much wrong here, being produced to challenge in the straight but just found out by a better handicapped winner. He should continue to perform well in handicaps and I would be interested if he goes chasing.
ANDYTOWN had every chance, and lost momentum after hitting 2 out probably cost that chance. He quite lightly raced, clearly has ability and I suspect will improve on this.
HEEZ A STEEL has run some decent races, but is collecting a long list of places.
PARADISE BAY might be worth watching for in a lower class event since he ran a decent race in fifth. He made some progress down the back, but couldn’t sustain the run in the straight. He’s on a mark of 94 which gives Gordon Elliott a chance to drop him in class.
STRAVAIGIN ran well enough in sixth, but found this company tougher than previous races. As has been the case in her previous races she came off the bridle some way out, but this time couldn’t battle her way back into contention.
VON GALEN had decent form going into this but was struggling from the start and pulled up after a circuit.
3.20 3m Novices’ Chase
A competitive stayers’ novice event for decent prize money.
The pace was steady for the first two miles.
ALLBORN LAD set the pace with Sharp Reply, but he’s not as good as these and struggled once the tempo increased. His sights need to be lowered.
I liked the look of NUDGE AND NURDLE as a chase when he won at Kelso earlier in the season. He was held up here, and made a couple of early mistakes, but moved into contention between the last two fences. He led on the flat and just held the late rush of the runner-up.
FLEET STREET finished with a flourish, just too late to get his head in front. This was his first try at the distance, and the suggestion is that he stayed very well, though remember that the pace was steady.
THE WHISPERER was outpaced on the flat, having led over the last two. Past from suggests he’s a real stayer, and a faster pace or stiffer test would be helpful.
LOVE THAT BENNY disappointed last time, but on ground that suits him ran well here. He’s one to watch out for in the next few weeks when the ground is on the fast side.
SHARP REPLY helped set the pace but ran out of petrol between the last 2.
FLYING FALCON has been in good form but his jumping let him down here.
3.55 2m 1/2f 0-125 Handicap Hurdle
I marked LITTLE BOB down as a future winner last spring. It took him a little time to notch a win, but this was his second success and he now moving in the right direction. He led on the flat, Paddy Brennan riding another ‘hold up’ race as he recorded his third success of the afternoon. I think Little Bob can win again soon.
SUMMER SOUL is a lightly raced import from Ireland. Coming off a break, he was up with the front-runners down the back straight and kept on well after the turn for home. A very promising run and looks a ready made winner for Lucinda Russell.
LONGDALE is a well exposed sort who ran up to his form in third, as did STAINLEY in fourth.
AMAZING KING was given every chance but couldn’t quicken between the last two.
ORANG OUTAN won last time out after a break, but this may have come to soon and he was pulled up. Bear in mind also that he was up in grade and running on faster ground, so it may be the run can be forgiven.
4.30 2m 4.5f 0-125 Handicap Chase
NIRVANA SWING had decent form coming into this race, two wins followed by a UR when in contention. He kept his good run going, racing prominently and showing plenty of determination on the flat.
GREAT JANE showed some promise last year, but then hit a flat spot. She was another who raced prominently and kept on well, finishing well clear of the rest. A good run in what looked a competitive event, and form which suggests another win won’t be far away.
CATEGORICAL won a claimer at Musselburgh in February over this distance. He didn’t threaten the leaders but stayed on for third. I get the impression that he is handicapped to the hilt over fences.
CLASSIC CAPERS has been dotted about between staying events and these middle distance chases. To his credit he acquits himself well enough whatever the distance, though is another who seems handicapped right to his ability.
DO L’ENFANT D’EAU is another who has been swapped between distances. In general he has been campaigned at this level though he ran well enough here, if lacking the pace of the placed horses, and the suggestion is a drop in class would give him a chance of his mark of 99.
GOLD HEART was not far away for much of the trip, but didn’t have enough at the end. He’s shown a hint of ability since moving from France, but yet to threaten a victory.
SEEYAAJ got into contention three out but fell away. He is running quite well but off a mark 9lbs higher than his last chase win. He is 8lbs lower over hurdles, and was a creditable second to Palomar on his last outing, so I suspect Lucinda Russell might try to exploit this.
5.05 3m 0-100 Amateur Riders’ Handicap Hurdle
Another Twiston-Davies winner in MAJOR MALARKEY, and another winner held up. He made a couple of hurdling mistakes out the back, but this didn’t inconvenience him and, coming thorough to lead at the last, stayed on nicely. This win takes him out of 0-100 class in the future, but he did win a 0-115 at Ludlow, so there’s hope of another victory.
LILY TARA never quite got near enough to threaten a win, but ran on well for second. She went up 14lbs for her last win, but still seems to be competitive.
COLDWELLS was up with the pace for much of the way, but couldn’t match the first two once they went past in the straight. He’s yet to win, but he ran well enough to suggest a minor staying hurdle might be within his compass.
LADY ROANIA plugged on for fourth. She’s 7lbs higher than her win at Ludlow in the autumn and would probably need to drop a few pounds.
SELECTION BOX looked threatening, but then whacked the second last which ended his chances. Invariably his Irish outings are in huge fields, so it might be that another trip to the Scotland may provide his best opportunity. Without the poor jump he may well have finished first three.
I’M YOUR MAN Stayed on in sixth. He won three times last summer, and has dropped below his last winning mark so is possibly one to note when the sun shines.
OLIVERJOHN and ASTON both seem out of sorts at the moment. The latter has looked unwilling at times in the past.
5.40 2m 4.5f Maiden Hurdle
Making his hurdling debut ANDREW NICK showed determination to see off Tuskar Rock and Diamond Frontier on the flat. I’m not sure this was a very strong race, but Andrew Nick showed enough promise to suggest he will progress.
TUSKAR ROCK doesn’t seem to have a change of pace, but his attitude seems good. He looked the winner after the last, but was headed in the last 100 yards.
DIAMOND FRONTIER performed to more or less the same level of his previous runs. He is competitive in these events and should pick up a maiden or novice eventually.
POLITICAL PADDY ran on, having been outpaced 3 out. His form suggests a stiffer test is required.
PRINCE DU BEURY looked strongest on form, but was disappointing having had every chance.
There didn’t seem an awful lot of promise from the remainder.
Going – Good
Damp weather but it made no difference to the going which was just right for the first day of the Perth Festival. The meeting plays host to trainers from far and wide, and it was the Cheltenham stable of Nigel Twiston-Davies that stole the day, recording a four-timer.
2.10 2m 4.5f Maiden Hurdle
A low key start to the meeting, with a maiden full of one paced and slow types.
Irish-trained CARRICK DHU made the running here, but his jumping was not that special. However he was still in front when running out at the third last and dumping his rider. He’s had plenty of chances and this run suggests there will always be reasons to oppose this one.
SOLWAY BEE has lacked a bit of pace at the business end, though putting up some fair performances in novice company. She forged clear in the straight to win with a fair bit in hand. Presumably her future now lies in handicap company where she has acquitted herself well previously.
THUNDERWING , although not sticking with the winner, did stay on for second. His efforts over 2 miles suggested a lack of finishing pace so presumably he will be campaigned at tis distance or further now.
GENERAL LEDGER had a chance entering the straight but was then left behind. His form suggests real test of stamina may be needed. He’s a winner of a bumper at Hexham and I wonder if a return to Hexham for a 3 miler may help.
CULCAVY was left behind from 3 out having raced prominently. His record to date does not pick him out as a potential winner.
2.45 3m 0.5f Novices’ Handicap Hurdle
A competitive novices’ handicap hurdle with a quite a few coming into it with promising recent form.
Nigel Twiston-Davies’ THE GREAT ALFIE was restrained at the back for much of the trip, brought through steadily from 3 out and led on the flat to win well. This was only his fourth race over hurdles so, given that the step up in trip clearly suited, it’s likely that his trainer can secure a win or two more.
MY ARCH has performed well this season in novice events in Scotland and the north. He didn’t do much wrong here, being produced to challenge in the straight but just found out by a better handicapped winner. He should continue to perform well in handicaps and I would be interested if he goes chasing.
ANDYTOWN had every chance, and lost momentum after hitting 2 out probably cost that chance. He quite lightly raced, clearly has ability and I suspect will improve on this.
HEEZ A STEEL has run some decent races, but is collecting a long list of places.
PARADISE BAY might be worth watching for in a lower class event since he ran a decent race in fifth. He made some progress down the back, but couldn’t sustain the run in the straight. He’s on a mark of 94 which gives Gordon Elliott a chance to drop him in class.
STRAVAIGIN ran well enough in sixth, but found this company tougher than previous races. As has been the case in her previous races she came off the bridle some way out, but this time couldn’t battle her way back into contention.
VON GALEN had decent form going into this but was struggling from the start and pulled up after a circuit.
3.20 3m Novices’ Chase
A competitive stayers’ novice event for decent prize money.
The pace was steady for the first two miles.
ALLBORN LAD set the pace with Sharp Reply, but he’s not as good as these and struggled once the tempo increased. His sights need to be lowered.
I liked the look of NUDGE AND NURDLE as a chase when he won at Kelso earlier in the season. He was held up here, and made a couple of early mistakes, but moved into contention between the last two fences. He led on the flat and just held the late rush of the runner-up.
FLEET STREET finished with a flourish, just too late to get his head in front. This was his first try at the distance, and the suggestion is that he stayed very well, though remember that the pace was steady.
THE WHISPERER was outpaced on the flat, having led over the last two. Past from suggests he’s a real stayer, and a faster pace or stiffer test would be helpful.
LOVE THAT BENNY disappointed last time, but on ground that suits him ran well here. He’s one to watch out for in the next few weeks when the ground is on the fast side.
SHARP REPLY helped set the pace but ran out of petrol between the last 2.
FLYING FALCON has been in good form but his jumping let him down here.
3.55 2m 1/2f 0-125 Handicap Hurdle
I marked LITTLE BOB down as a future winner last spring. It took him a little time to notch a win, but this was his second success and he now moving in the right direction. He led on the flat, Paddy Brennan riding another ‘hold up’ race as he recorded his third success of the afternoon. I think Little Bob can win again soon.
SUMMER SOUL is a lightly raced import from Ireland. Coming off a break, he was up with the front-runners down the back straight and kept on well after the turn for home. A very promising run and looks a ready made winner for Lucinda Russell.
LONGDALE is a well exposed sort who ran up to his form in third, as did STAINLEY in fourth.
AMAZING KING was given every chance but couldn’t quicken between the last two.
ORANG OUTAN won last time out after a break, but this may have come to soon and he was pulled up. Bear in mind also that he was up in grade and running on faster ground, so it may be the run can be forgiven.
4.30 2m 4.5f 0-125 Handicap Chase
NIRVANA SWING had decent form coming into this race, two wins followed by a UR when in contention. He kept his good run going, racing prominently and showing plenty of determination on the flat.
GREAT JANE showed some promise last year, but then hit a flat spot. She was another who raced prominently and kept on well, finishing well clear of the rest. A good run in what looked a competitive event, and form which suggests another win won’t be far away.
CATEGORICAL won a claimer at Musselburgh in February over this distance. He didn’t threaten the leaders but stayed on for third. I get the impression that he is handicapped to the hilt over fences.
CLASSIC CAPERS has been dotted about between staying events and these middle distance chases. To his credit he acquits himself well enough whatever the distance, though is another who seems handicapped right to his ability.
DO L’ENFANT D’EAU is another who has been swapped between distances. In general he has been campaigned at this level though he ran well enough here, if lacking the pace of the placed horses, and the suggestion is a drop in class would give him a chance of his mark of 99.
GOLD HEART was not far away for much of the trip, but didn’t have enough at the end. He’s shown a hint of ability since moving from France, but yet to threaten a victory.
SEEYAAJ got into contention three out but fell away. He is running quite well but off a mark 9lbs higher than his last chase win. He is 8lbs lower over hurdles, and was a creditable second to Palomar on his last outing, so I suspect Lucinda Russell might try to exploit this.
5.05 3m 0-100 Amateur Riders’ Handicap Hurdle
Another Twiston-Davies winner in MAJOR MALARKEY, and another winner held up. He made a couple of hurdling mistakes out the back, but this didn’t inconvenience him and, coming thorough to lead at the last, stayed on nicely. This win takes him out of 0-100 class in the future, but he did win a 0-115 at Ludlow, so there’s hope of another victory.
LILY TARA never quite got near enough to threaten a win, but ran on well for second. She went up 14lbs for her last win, but still seems to be competitive.
COLDWELLS was up with the pace for much of the way, but couldn’t match the first two once they went past in the straight. He’s yet to win, but he ran well enough to suggest a minor staying hurdle might be within his compass.
LADY ROANIA plugged on for fourth. She’s 7lbs higher than her win at Ludlow in the autumn and would probably need to drop a few pounds.
SELECTION BOX looked threatening, but then whacked the second last which ended his chances. Invariably his Irish outings are in huge fields, so it might be that another trip to the Scotland may provide his best opportunity. Without the poor jump he may well have finished first three.
I’M YOUR MAN Stayed on in sixth. He won three times last summer, and has dropped below his last winning mark so is possibly one to note when the sun shines.
OLIVERJOHN and ASTON both seem out of sorts at the moment. The latter has looked unwilling at times in the past.
5.40 2m 4.5f Maiden Hurdle
Making his hurdling debut ANDREW NICK showed determination to see off Tuskar Rock and Diamond Frontier on the flat. I’m not sure this was a very strong race, but Andrew Nick showed enough promise to suggest he will progress.
TUSKAR ROCK doesn’t seem to have a change of pace, but his attitude seems good. He looked the winner after the last, but was headed in the last 100 yards.
DIAMOND FRONTIER performed to more or less the same level of his previous runs. He is competitive in these events and should pick up a maiden or novice eventually.
POLITICAL PADDY ran on, having been outpaced 3 out. His form suggests a stiffer test is required.
PRINCE DU BEURY looked strongest on form, but was disappointing having had every chance.
There didn’t seem an awful lot of promise from the remainder.
Tuesday, 22 April 2008
Scottish Grand National Meeting
AYR – Friday 18th and Saturday 19th April 2008
Going: Friday – Good To Soft, Saturday – Good
The ground dried out very quickly over a few days, having originally been reported as heavy a day or two before the meeting.
The heroine of the meeting was LA VECCHIA SCUOLA. This versatile filly, a winner over 5 furlongs last June and a creditable fifth in a 3 mile Grade 1 novices’ hurdle at Aintree, won on both days of this meeting. On Friday, having been under pressure from a long way out, she came with a burst of speed to snatch the 2 mile mares’ handicap hurdle right on the line, just nicking it from BOLLIN RUTH, the latter having shown determination to hold off the others. La Vecchia Scuola came out in the opening novice event the next day and won with any amount in hand. Jim Goldie intimated that the tough filly may go for an event at Punchestown this week.
KERRY LADS was retired after the claiming chase on Friday. He’s been a good servant to the Russell stable for a number of years, but on this occasion couldn’t muster the pace to match AUNTIE KATHLEEN. Difficult to know quite what to make of the form, since the winner appeared to make significant improvement. The third GEEVEEM never seemed to be travelling that well and lost touch with the first two in the latter stages. CASH BONANZA disputed for a long way, but on handicaps marks he had a tough task and couldn’t stay with the principals in the straight.
REAP THE REWARD came from a long lay-off to take Friday’s 2m 5f novices’ handicap chase on his chasing debut. He ran on well for a comfortable win and he’s low enough in the handicap for the mark to be exploited in the next few weeks. One or two in the race jumped stickily, but Reap The Reward did the job nicely. The Robson stable followed up on Saturday when OVERSERVED won a handicap hurdle.
QUWS LAW won the 3 mile handicap hurdle on Friday. Having struggled in the sticky ground previously this one was suited by the drier conditions and won the race nicely. He has a sound record at the track to date. RATHOWEN came rattling home from the back to snatch second.
Apparently well considered NOLAND was put in his place in the Future Champions Novices’ Chase on Saturday. He was put in his place by STARZAAN who had too much pace on the flat. Noland has perhaps been hyped a little though, and strictly on the handicap figures the result was right to the length. FRANKIE FIGG was beaten but not disgraced here, leading to 2 out and then giving way, finding the opposition just a bit too strong.
The Scottish Champion Hurdle (a 0-160 Handicap) looked a very decent event. BORDER CASTLE found extra on the flat to hold TAKEROC, and in third the novice KALAHARI KING put up a cracking performance. FRENCH SAULAIE also performed creditably in finishing fourth. BYWELL BEAU made the pace, as is his way, and kept on when headed but could only finish sixth. He’s a bit between two stools at moment, since he’s erratic at chasing and high in the weights in handicap hurdles. LOUGH DERG, presumably trying for Order Of Merit points, found things happening much too quickly for him at two miles on this ground.
The Scottish National was won in impressive style by 66/1 outsider IRIS DE BALME. I would love to say I had been on the horse at those odds, but I only profited by virtue of drawing him in the office sweep! Clearly suited by the extreme distance and the decent ground, he whizzed away from the very decent Halcon Genelardais over the last two. Iris De Balme now goes for the Gold Cup at Sandown next week, though I feel he’ll find that a lot tougher, since it’s a different track and likely to be a classier event overall. HALCON GENELARDAIS lost nothing in defeat, since the rest were held. FLINTOFF finished well to take third and on this evidence may be a force in staying chases next season. OLD BENNY ran well enough in fourth if never quite getting to grips at the sharp end, and PHILSON RUN added another decent performance to his record in fifth. STRONG RESOLVE ran well for a long way, but faded from a mile out and finds this class tough these days. ANOTHER RUM trundled round at the back without getting to the leaders. NOIR ET VERT threatened briefly on the last circuit but fell away after a mistake at the twentieth fence.
MARCEL seems at his best in small fields. He beat 6 opponents over 2 miles here and performed similarly in a small field at Kelso the run before last. He found a more competitive event at Aintree too much to cope with. JEFERTITI has been in good form, but this class was too much for him and he was beaten by 40-odd lengths. However, I would imagine he’ll be in and pitching at Perth or possibly Kelso in the near future.
Ecclefechan trained MERIGO was an impressive winner of the 3m 1f Novices’ Hacp Chase (0-132), racing up with the pace and staying on well at the finish. He’s likely to stay further and is one to keep on the list for staying chases in Scotland and the north. BALLABRIGGS finished second, and I get the impression a bit more give would suit better, but this was a creditable run. I liked this one when I first same him, and I would expect the McCain stable to find a chase or two for him next season. James Ewart’s RAINING HORSE was going well when falling 5 out.
The National Hunt Flat looked a competitive event with a few piinters to the future. Kelso debut winner KNOCKARA BEAU confirmed that form with a solid second behind Paul Nicholls’ CONFLICTOFINTEREST. I’ll be looking forward to seeing KNOCKARA BEAU in Scottish novice hurdles next season. Lucinda Russell’s BRACKEN LAD ran well enough in sixth palce to give encouragement for the future.
Focus in Scotland now turns to the Perth Festival which commences on Wednesday 23rd April. The strength of entries suggests some competitive racing on ground which is likely to be good.
Going: Friday – Good To Soft, Saturday – Good
The ground dried out very quickly over a few days, having originally been reported as heavy a day or two before the meeting.
The heroine of the meeting was LA VECCHIA SCUOLA. This versatile filly, a winner over 5 furlongs last June and a creditable fifth in a 3 mile Grade 1 novices’ hurdle at Aintree, won on both days of this meeting. On Friday, having been under pressure from a long way out, she came with a burst of speed to snatch the 2 mile mares’ handicap hurdle right on the line, just nicking it from BOLLIN RUTH, the latter having shown determination to hold off the others. La Vecchia Scuola came out in the opening novice event the next day and won with any amount in hand. Jim Goldie intimated that the tough filly may go for an event at Punchestown this week.
KERRY LADS was retired after the claiming chase on Friday. He’s been a good servant to the Russell stable for a number of years, but on this occasion couldn’t muster the pace to match AUNTIE KATHLEEN. Difficult to know quite what to make of the form, since the winner appeared to make significant improvement. The third GEEVEEM never seemed to be travelling that well and lost touch with the first two in the latter stages. CASH BONANZA disputed for a long way, but on handicaps marks he had a tough task and couldn’t stay with the principals in the straight.
REAP THE REWARD came from a long lay-off to take Friday’s 2m 5f novices’ handicap chase on his chasing debut. He ran on well for a comfortable win and he’s low enough in the handicap for the mark to be exploited in the next few weeks. One or two in the race jumped stickily, but Reap The Reward did the job nicely. The Robson stable followed up on Saturday when OVERSERVED won a handicap hurdle.
QUWS LAW won the 3 mile handicap hurdle on Friday. Having struggled in the sticky ground previously this one was suited by the drier conditions and won the race nicely. He has a sound record at the track to date. RATHOWEN came rattling home from the back to snatch second.
Apparently well considered NOLAND was put in his place in the Future Champions Novices’ Chase on Saturday. He was put in his place by STARZAAN who had too much pace on the flat. Noland has perhaps been hyped a little though, and strictly on the handicap figures the result was right to the length. FRANKIE FIGG was beaten but not disgraced here, leading to 2 out and then giving way, finding the opposition just a bit too strong.
The Scottish Champion Hurdle (a 0-160 Handicap) looked a very decent event. BORDER CASTLE found extra on the flat to hold TAKEROC, and in third the novice KALAHARI KING put up a cracking performance. FRENCH SAULAIE also performed creditably in finishing fourth. BYWELL BEAU made the pace, as is his way, and kept on when headed but could only finish sixth. He’s a bit between two stools at moment, since he’s erratic at chasing and high in the weights in handicap hurdles. LOUGH DERG, presumably trying for Order Of Merit points, found things happening much too quickly for him at two miles on this ground.
The Scottish National was won in impressive style by 66/1 outsider IRIS DE BALME. I would love to say I had been on the horse at those odds, but I only profited by virtue of drawing him in the office sweep! Clearly suited by the extreme distance and the decent ground, he whizzed away from the very decent Halcon Genelardais over the last two. Iris De Balme now goes for the Gold Cup at Sandown next week, though I feel he’ll find that a lot tougher, since it’s a different track and likely to be a classier event overall. HALCON GENELARDAIS lost nothing in defeat, since the rest were held. FLINTOFF finished well to take third and on this evidence may be a force in staying chases next season. OLD BENNY ran well enough in fourth if never quite getting to grips at the sharp end, and PHILSON RUN added another decent performance to his record in fifth. STRONG RESOLVE ran well for a long way, but faded from a mile out and finds this class tough these days. ANOTHER RUM trundled round at the back without getting to the leaders. NOIR ET VERT threatened briefly on the last circuit but fell away after a mistake at the twentieth fence.
MARCEL seems at his best in small fields. He beat 6 opponents over 2 miles here and performed similarly in a small field at Kelso the run before last. He found a more competitive event at Aintree too much to cope with. JEFERTITI has been in good form, but this class was too much for him and he was beaten by 40-odd lengths. However, I would imagine he’ll be in and pitching at Perth or possibly Kelso in the near future.
Ecclefechan trained MERIGO was an impressive winner of the 3m 1f Novices’ Hacp Chase (0-132), racing up with the pace and staying on well at the finish. He’s likely to stay further and is one to keep on the list for staying chases in Scotland and the north. BALLABRIGGS finished second, and I get the impression a bit more give would suit better, but this was a creditable run. I liked this one when I first same him, and I would expect the McCain stable to find a chase or two for him next season. James Ewart’s RAINING HORSE was going well when falling 5 out.
The National Hunt Flat looked a competitive event with a few piinters to the future. Kelso debut winner KNOCKARA BEAU confirmed that form with a solid second behind Paul Nicholls’ CONFLICTOFINTEREST. I’ll be looking forward to seeing KNOCKARA BEAU in Scottish novice hurdles next season. Lucinda Russell’s BRACKEN LAD ran well enough in sixth palce to give encouragement for the future.
Focus in Scotland now turns to the Perth Festival which commences on Wednesday 23rd April. The strength of entries suggests some competitive racing on ground which is likely to be good.
Monday, 14 April 2008
Kelso - Sunday April 13 2008
Going – Heavy
After heavy rain in the Borders over the past few days the meeting survived an inspection. Better than the previous week when my wife and I drove through the snow toward Hexham, only to hear at 1p.m. that the meeting was off.
One fence and hurdle down the back straight were missed out due to the bad ground.
2.20 2m 0.5f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle
CASH MAN raced prominently all the way. He was headed at the last but fought back tenaciously on the long run-in and certainly doesn’t lack determination. The time was decent compared with others on the card, even allowing for racing on the freshest ground.
NAXOX moved up after 3 out, and came to win the race at the last, but couldn’t muster quite the pace of the winner. He stuck on well enough and didn’t lose much in defeat, finishing. He handles better going so is worth watching out for in the next few weeks.
SILVER BY NATURE has ability but is difficult to ‘tie down’. Having been prominent early he seemed to be going nowhere 3 out, only to stay on again to take third. I suspect he is favoured by better ground, and since Perth is his local a visit or two to that course over the coming months may confirm this.
JENTRIS GIRL stayed on for fourth just behind Silver By Nature. This was a fair debut over hurdles. PROSECCO raced prominently for a long way then faded from 2 out, but was not disgraced. The remainder were well held.
PEREZ, with no form to speak of previously, pulled to the front and led to the third before disappearing without trace. The likes of BRIARHILL LAD, JANAL and FIRST FOOTPRINT were in the rear early and never competitive.
3.00 3m 1f Novices’ Chase
Not a bad event even though only four turned out.
GYSPY GEORGE led early, jumped well, and saw off Ma Yahab and Truckers Lady in the straight. The two beaten horses are decent markers, and the winner’s form suggests he should be first on the list whenever the ground comes up testing.
MA YAHAB came off a decent performance in handicap company at Cheltenham. He tried hard enough after the last put was just held. Could be interesting back in less classy handicap company than he found at Cheltenham.
TRUCKERS LADY is still a maiden but has run some decent races. She was found out by two better horses in the straight. Her handicap mark of 109 may be helpful.
LOVE THAT BENNY was not out of it when whacking 2 out, a mistake which knocked the stuffing out of him. He was coming off a break here so performed adequately given that he’s probably better suited by good ground or faster. He will presumably be aimed at spring time Perth and Kelso contests on better ground.
3.30 2m 2f 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
Officially a 0-130 but top weight was on 120. The pace was steady until 3 out.
Tight between four two out with consistent performer JOHN FORBES gaining the upper hand from the last.
TARTAN SNOW took a heavy fall at the last when looking tired. It looked bad but he got up OK. He had gone well enough, and performed creditably to remain in contention after a bad mistake at the hurdle down the far side.
HUSH TIGER and FRONT RANK, both having every chance two out, faded out of contention. HUSH TIGER in particular can find an easier opportunity.
TRAGIC OHIO, coming from a long lay-off, had his rider stoking the coal facing two out, but stuck on well on the flat. The performance offers encouragement, and it’s worth noting that though a winner on heavy his bumper form proves he can handle better ground.
KARATHAENA stayed on for third. She may win in her turn but is well exposed.
SOUBRIQUET was left behind once the pace increased. His current mark looks a tough one.
4.00 3m 1f 0-132 Handicap Chase
Slightly less than the 0-145 billing, but nevertheless a decent handicap chase for Kelso.
A gem of a ride by Timmy Murphy. Holding up top-weight STANDIN OBLIGATION at the back, Murphy brought his mount through to lead on the flat and win with a degree of comfort. He’s been lightly raced this season, handles fast ground and could be interesting if aimed at the better handicap chases this spring.
GETINBYBUTONLYJUST was prominent on the final circuit and did nothing wrong. Headed on the flat, he had seen off the remainder comfortably but was well outpointed by the winner. He’s on a low mark, and if he remains at 110 or less would squeak into the Highland National which would be a good deal easier than this race, though it may come a little too soon. If he turns out at Perth I’ll have a good look at him in the parade ring.
ANOTHER RUM was way out the back until the run-in as he arrived to snatch third. He stays 4m+, but doesn’t win very often.
CANADA STREET has run well in a number of similar events this season. He plugged on for fourth. He’s not been campaigned in the summer, so presumably will be put away until the autumn.
BANNISTER LANE and GIDAM GIDAM were prominent early at a decent pace but faded in the tough conditions. STRONG RESOLVE and THE OUTLIER were also up there early and then found things hard work on the final circuit. CHABRIMAL MINSTER made some progress on the final circuit and had a chance 4 out but then faded.
ROSS COMM never showed, JONNY’S KICK was shoved along vainly going on to the final circuit , and CRACKADEE ran no sort of race in the conditions, pulling up before the eleventh.
4.30 3m 1f Hunters’ Chase
This race was turned into a procession by the Borders area’s favourite hunter chaser NATIAIN. Blazing the trail in his familiar style, he jumped immaculately and had all his opponents bar one on the stretch for most of the way. He couldn’t cope with the better opposition at Cheltenham, but there doesn’t seem to be anything to hold him at Kelso. The Bajan Bandit was a non-runner here, but I’m not sure even that capable performer would have held him.
LORD WHO was waited with off the pace, moved up well on the final circuit but was well outpointed at the sharp end. He ran creditably in the Perth long distance hunter event last season, and would be interesting if aimed at that race again since he wasn’t pushed too much once beaten.
ANSHAN SPIRIT paid the penalty for racing up with the winner for a circuit and fell away, finishing a tired third. Probably best on decent ground, there was enough promise here to suggest a minor hunter chase should come his way soon.
The remaining five weren’t remotely good enough and were strung out around Kelso.
5.00 2m 6.5f Novices’ Hurdle
The decent gallop here saw off the slowcoaches.
SUPREME BUILDER will be presumably be aimed at a chasing career. He was all out to beat an apparent lesser performer here, but he stays well and is determined enough.
POLITICAL PADDY was only just pipped and is clearly suited by a stamina test. On this evidence should pick up a staying novice event. I would imagine a 3 miler round Hexham would be up this one’s street.
AUTOGRAPH, back to hurdles after a spell chasing, led to three out but couldn’t offer enough from the last. She gives her trainer options over hurdles and fences.
EGERMYSTER’s fourth place may be of interest since he was making a rules debut. Took over three out and then was one paced once headed at the last, but the fact that she got seriously competitive offers much encouragement.
The rest led by MONEYLAWS were beaten a long way, and OF COURSE may have had a problem since he went out like a light after 3 out.
Currently a favourite mare of mine and of my work colleagues, STRAVAIGIN did us proud again at Carlisle last week, just being pipped on the line by Wise Choice. Keep an eye out for her on good ground.
Can't make the meeting, but will post a Scottish National meeting report at the end of the week. It's then on to the Perth Festival, April 23rd to 25th, before starting my Scottish Flat season with Hamilton on May 9th.
After heavy rain in the Borders over the past few days the meeting survived an inspection. Better than the previous week when my wife and I drove through the snow toward Hexham, only to hear at 1p.m. that the meeting was off.
One fence and hurdle down the back straight were missed out due to the bad ground.
2.20 2m 0.5f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle
CASH MAN raced prominently all the way. He was headed at the last but fought back tenaciously on the long run-in and certainly doesn’t lack determination. The time was decent compared with others on the card, even allowing for racing on the freshest ground.
NAXOX moved up after 3 out, and came to win the race at the last, but couldn’t muster quite the pace of the winner. He stuck on well enough and didn’t lose much in defeat, finishing. He handles better going so is worth watching out for in the next few weeks.
SILVER BY NATURE has ability but is difficult to ‘tie down’. Having been prominent early he seemed to be going nowhere 3 out, only to stay on again to take third. I suspect he is favoured by better ground, and since Perth is his local a visit or two to that course over the coming months may confirm this.
JENTRIS GIRL stayed on for fourth just behind Silver By Nature. This was a fair debut over hurdles. PROSECCO raced prominently for a long way then faded from 2 out, but was not disgraced. The remainder were well held.
PEREZ, with no form to speak of previously, pulled to the front and led to the third before disappearing without trace. The likes of BRIARHILL LAD, JANAL and FIRST FOOTPRINT were in the rear early and never competitive.
3.00 3m 1f Novices’ Chase
Not a bad event even though only four turned out.
GYSPY GEORGE led early, jumped well, and saw off Ma Yahab and Truckers Lady in the straight. The two beaten horses are decent markers, and the winner’s form suggests he should be first on the list whenever the ground comes up testing.
MA YAHAB came off a decent performance in handicap company at Cheltenham. He tried hard enough after the last put was just held. Could be interesting back in less classy handicap company than he found at Cheltenham.
TRUCKERS LADY is still a maiden but has run some decent races. She was found out by two better horses in the straight. Her handicap mark of 109 may be helpful.
LOVE THAT BENNY was not out of it when whacking 2 out, a mistake which knocked the stuffing out of him. He was coming off a break here so performed adequately given that he’s probably better suited by good ground or faster. He will presumably be aimed at spring time Perth and Kelso contests on better ground.
3.30 2m 2f 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
Officially a 0-130 but top weight was on 120. The pace was steady until 3 out.
Tight between four two out with consistent performer JOHN FORBES gaining the upper hand from the last.
TARTAN SNOW took a heavy fall at the last when looking tired. It looked bad but he got up OK. He had gone well enough, and performed creditably to remain in contention after a bad mistake at the hurdle down the far side.
HUSH TIGER and FRONT RANK, both having every chance two out, faded out of contention. HUSH TIGER in particular can find an easier opportunity.
TRAGIC OHIO, coming from a long lay-off, had his rider stoking the coal facing two out, but stuck on well on the flat. The performance offers encouragement, and it’s worth noting that though a winner on heavy his bumper form proves he can handle better ground.
KARATHAENA stayed on for third. She may win in her turn but is well exposed.
SOUBRIQUET was left behind once the pace increased. His current mark looks a tough one.
4.00 3m 1f 0-132 Handicap Chase
Slightly less than the 0-145 billing, but nevertheless a decent handicap chase for Kelso.
A gem of a ride by Timmy Murphy. Holding up top-weight STANDIN OBLIGATION at the back, Murphy brought his mount through to lead on the flat and win with a degree of comfort. He’s been lightly raced this season, handles fast ground and could be interesting if aimed at the better handicap chases this spring.
GETINBYBUTONLYJUST was prominent on the final circuit and did nothing wrong. Headed on the flat, he had seen off the remainder comfortably but was well outpointed by the winner. He’s on a low mark, and if he remains at 110 or less would squeak into the Highland National which would be a good deal easier than this race, though it may come a little too soon. If he turns out at Perth I’ll have a good look at him in the parade ring.
ANOTHER RUM was way out the back until the run-in as he arrived to snatch third. He stays 4m+, but doesn’t win very often.
CANADA STREET has run well in a number of similar events this season. He plugged on for fourth. He’s not been campaigned in the summer, so presumably will be put away until the autumn.
BANNISTER LANE and GIDAM GIDAM were prominent early at a decent pace but faded in the tough conditions. STRONG RESOLVE and THE OUTLIER were also up there early and then found things hard work on the final circuit. CHABRIMAL MINSTER made some progress on the final circuit and had a chance 4 out but then faded.
ROSS COMM never showed, JONNY’S KICK was shoved along vainly going on to the final circuit , and CRACKADEE ran no sort of race in the conditions, pulling up before the eleventh.
4.30 3m 1f Hunters’ Chase
This race was turned into a procession by the Borders area’s favourite hunter chaser NATIAIN. Blazing the trail in his familiar style, he jumped immaculately and had all his opponents bar one on the stretch for most of the way. He couldn’t cope with the better opposition at Cheltenham, but there doesn’t seem to be anything to hold him at Kelso. The Bajan Bandit was a non-runner here, but I’m not sure even that capable performer would have held him.
LORD WHO was waited with off the pace, moved up well on the final circuit but was well outpointed at the sharp end. He ran creditably in the Perth long distance hunter event last season, and would be interesting if aimed at that race again since he wasn’t pushed too much once beaten.
ANSHAN SPIRIT paid the penalty for racing up with the winner for a circuit and fell away, finishing a tired third. Probably best on decent ground, there was enough promise here to suggest a minor hunter chase should come his way soon.
The remaining five weren’t remotely good enough and were strung out around Kelso.
5.00 2m 6.5f Novices’ Hurdle
The decent gallop here saw off the slowcoaches.
SUPREME BUILDER will be presumably be aimed at a chasing career. He was all out to beat an apparent lesser performer here, but he stays well and is determined enough.
POLITICAL PADDY was only just pipped and is clearly suited by a stamina test. On this evidence should pick up a staying novice event. I would imagine a 3 miler round Hexham would be up this one’s street.
AUTOGRAPH, back to hurdles after a spell chasing, led to three out but couldn’t offer enough from the last. She gives her trainer options over hurdles and fences.
EGERMYSTER’s fourth place may be of interest since he was making a rules debut. Took over three out and then was one paced once headed at the last, but the fact that she got seriously competitive offers much encouragement.
The rest led by MONEYLAWS were beaten a long way, and OF COURSE may have had a problem since he went out like a light after 3 out.
Currently a favourite mare of mine and of my work colleagues, STRAVAIGIN did us proud again at Carlisle last week, just being pipped on the line by Wise Choice. Keep an eye out for her on good ground.
Can't make the meeting, but will post a Scottish National meeting report at the end of the week. It's then on to the Perth Festival, April 23rd to 25th, before starting my Scottish Flat season with Hamilton on May 9th.
Friday, 28 March 2008
Plans for April and May
No courses visited for a while because of other commitments but I'm aiming to tick off the following in the coming weeks.
Sunday April 6th - Hexham (new course for me)
Wednesday 23rd - Friday 25th April - Perth Festival
After the minor events in Gloucestershire and Liverpool we now get to the 'proper' festival at 'The Scone'!
Friday May 9th - Hamilton Park
Sunday April 6th - Hexham (new course for me)
Wednesday 23rd - Friday 25th April - Perth Festival
After the minor events in Gloucestershire and Liverpool we now get to the 'proper' festival at 'The Scone'!
Friday May 9th - Hamilton Park
Newcastle and Ayr 26/27 March
NEWCASTLE – Wednesday March 26th
A chance to catch up with a few horses previously noted.
STRAVAIGIN noted from a promising run at Musselburgh landed the money for my department at work. Her record on good ground is now 321, but on 706ro9PPFP. The ground was right here and she just caught Pendle Forest, who seemed to idle a bit in front. Stravaigin stayed on determinedly, though not looking to have a chance of catching the leader until a few strides out, getting her head in front right on the line. She seems to have the right attitude and given decent ground is one to keep an eye on for another win. The impression is that she will stay further, and she jumped well enough at Musselburgh so a chase would be within her scope.
I’d expect PENDLE FOREST to win a race, since Stravaigin was the only one to get near her in the straight. HEATHCLIFF stayed on up the straight and I would imagine a bit farther than this two and a half miles wouldn’t be a problem.
RYEMINSTER has had a frustrating run of places this season, but is genuine enough and got his head in front over 3 miles here. This is his minimum distance and he goes very well on a sound surface, so is one to keep on the list this spring.
APRIL SAN has lacked a bit of pace at the end of novice hurdles. However, he’s been thereabouts 4 times this season and should pick up a staying hurdle, maybe a novices’ handicap. His current mark allows him into 0-110 handicaps which could be helpful.
ANDY ANSHAN had shown a degree of chasing promise, and stepped up on his previous run to take the 2m 4f hunters’ event. Possibly not the most competitive event, but Andy Anshan is going the right way.
AYR – Thursday March 27th
Ground was once again heavy at Ayr, and many just didn’t get home. Only two finished in the Beginners’ Chase with the second beaten 62 lengths, though LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL looked the likely winner before coming a cropper at the last. MR MULTIFIX was presented with the race and is proven on heavy ground.
BALLYNURE, running off a light weight, was one of the few who handled the ground in the 2m 5f Handicap Chase. He’ll probably go up for this which won’t help him any, since the form may be worth diddly-squat.
A chance to catch up with a few horses previously noted.
STRAVAIGIN noted from a promising run at Musselburgh landed the money for my department at work. Her record on good ground is now 321, but on 706ro9PPFP. The ground was right here and she just caught Pendle Forest, who seemed to idle a bit in front. Stravaigin stayed on determinedly, though not looking to have a chance of catching the leader until a few strides out, getting her head in front right on the line. She seems to have the right attitude and given decent ground is one to keep an eye on for another win. The impression is that she will stay further, and she jumped well enough at Musselburgh so a chase would be within her scope.
I’d expect PENDLE FOREST to win a race, since Stravaigin was the only one to get near her in the straight. HEATHCLIFF stayed on up the straight and I would imagine a bit farther than this two and a half miles wouldn’t be a problem.
RYEMINSTER has had a frustrating run of places this season, but is genuine enough and got his head in front over 3 miles here. This is his minimum distance and he goes very well on a sound surface, so is one to keep on the list this spring.
APRIL SAN has lacked a bit of pace at the end of novice hurdles. However, he’s been thereabouts 4 times this season and should pick up a staying hurdle, maybe a novices’ handicap. His current mark allows him into 0-110 handicaps which could be helpful.
ANDY ANSHAN had shown a degree of chasing promise, and stepped up on his previous run to take the 2m 4f hunters’ event. Possibly not the most competitive event, but Andy Anshan is going the right way.
AYR – Thursday March 27th
Ground was once again heavy at Ayr, and many just didn’t get home. Only two finished in the Beginners’ Chase with the second beaten 62 lengths, though LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL looked the likely winner before coming a cropper at the last. MR MULTIFIX was presented with the race and is proven on heavy ground.
BALLYNURE, running off a light weight, was one of the few who handled the ground in the 2m 5f Handicap Chase. He’ll probably go up for this which won’t help him any, since the form may be worth diddly-squat.
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
KELSO - Saturday March 1st
Going – Good To Soft
Decent weather and decent ground for Kelso’s most valuable meeting of the season. However, the spectre of the ‘low sun’ spoiled the Grade 2 novices hurdle, with both flights in the straight omitted.
2.00 2m 6.5f 0-135 Handicap Chase
CRACKADEE had to be worked on from a way out, but he does stay well and stuck on to take this at the death. He’s lightly raced and progressing, so there may be a similar contest in him.
I noted SCARVAGH DIAMOND last season from a decent bumper from which all the first four have won since, including multiple-winners Middleton Dene and Programme Girl. This mare has proved to be pretty useful stepped up in distance and has recorded three wins herself. On her first outing in handicap company she jumped very well, led on the flat but was just outbattled close home. She did nothing wrong and will be a force in similar races.
STANDIN OBLIGATION was held up and never got to the front line, though plugging on for third, and JIMMY BOND was one paced in fourth having been prominent most of the way.
NIRVANA SWING was still in contention when misjudging two out and falling, bringing down BRAVE REBELLION who had moved smoothly up to the leaders. This looks a decent event and on that basis these two are well worthy of consideration next time.
SNOWY was always out the back.
SILVER JACK couldn’t go the pace from a mile out, SILVER KNIGHT put in a second consecutive poor effort, and POSH STICK had no hope in this class.
2.30 2m 0.5f 4yo Novice Hurdle
LOS NADIS’s untidy jumping cost him the race at Musselburgh last time. He was a little better here, but there’s still something to work on. He jumped right over the last two flights and QUICK WILL was able to take charge on the flat. The latter has had a bits and pieces start to his hurdling career, but this form suggests he’s going the right way.
DANISH REBEL ran prominently as usual, and plugged on for third. In the lnog run I suspect handicaps will be best for him since he seems destined to find one or two too good in novices’.
GALANT NUIT stayed on from the back, and his form so far suggests a longer trip is required.
3.10 2m 1f Novices’ Chase
This looked likely to fall to BYWELL BEAU but he jumped violently right at the second last and his jockey had no chance of keeping him on the chase course. He raced in front as ever, but jumped right all the way. That being said he probably would have won the race, but jumping needs to be sorted out. He was hurdling in his previous race, being a successful front-runner in that sphere, so it may be interesting to see where his trainer takes him next.
CIRCASSIAN was moving up when falling at the seventh, not getting high enough and ‘burying’ Denis O’Regan.
The race was presented to OPEN DE L’ISLE, but it maybe slightly unfair to suggest he was a lucky winner, since he jumped well all the way round and was still in contention when Bywell Beau, and was not stopping at the end.
KEMPSKI couldn’t get to the front as he prefers and was never in contention and called ‘enough’ in front of the seventh.
ASTYANAX and CEBONNE completed the course in their own time.
3.40 2m 1f 0-144 Handicap Chase
A close fought contest.
MARCEL returned to chasing and held up early, made progress to get in contention 3 out. He then battled really well on the flat to hold on. His problem is that this is his mark, and if he goes up a few pounds it will make things tough.
ROMAN ARK and MAGIC SKY both had every chance and did nothing wrong.
KILMACKILLOGE led early, but couldn’t go with the front three in the final half mile. He was a pound out of the handicap here, and there’s plenty of scope for a drop in class which would make things easier.
POLAR GUNNER was outclassed and pulled up at the last, interfering with FIRST LOOK who unseated, Timmy Murphy jumping the fence without his partner. FIRST LOOK ran no sort of race here.
4.15 2m 2f Grade 2 Novices’ Hurdle
The class of runner here suggests this wasn’t the best Grade 2 event, though two left the rest behind. It was rather devalued as a jumps contest since the two hurdles in the straight were omitted due to the low sun, only 6 flights being jumped. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility to move one of the flights in the straight back to the side of the course, meaning only one would be missed out.
IGNOTUS was disqualified at Catterick since he was entered a day before the end of a 40 day ban. Dare one ask why the Catterick entry was accepted? He made up for that disqualification with a sound performance here, staying on gamely to hold PAGAN STARPRINCESS. The two came clear of their field. I suspect IGNOTUS may go to Aintree, though he'd have to step his form up another notch to have a chance there.
SCRIPTWRITER ran well enough to take third place and would be expected to land an ordinary novice event. LA VECCHIA SCUOLA ran up to her previous form in fourth place, and it wouldn’t surprise me if she picks up another novice event in the coming weeks.
OSAKO D’AIRY led early and QUICUYO took over 3 out, but neither were good enough when push came to shove.
4.50 2m 6.5f Hunters’ Chase
Consistent performer NATIAIN put up a decent performance on his seasonal debut. Challenged on the run-in, he held off Robbers Glen in determined fashion. He’s been a prolific winner in points and hunter events, and now goes to the Foxhunters’ at Cheltenham. It’s a step up, but he won’t go down for lack of determination. Credit to rider Mark Ellwood who was having his return ride after breaking his back at Hexham last year.
ROBBERS GLEN got a bit unbalanced on the run-in, and possibly the winner benefited form a slightly tidier ride close home, but the runner-up certainly put it all in and won’t find many as tough as the winner on the Northern hunter circuit.
ANSHAN SPIRIT had decent form round here last season, and ran an honest enough race if left behind by the first two.
JUST IN DEBT couldn’t go the pace from two out and needs a stiffer test.
The rest weren’t good enough in this company.
5.25 2m 6.5f 0-110 Handicap Hurdle
Back to a full compliment of hurdles, with the sun having disappeared.
ETCHED IN STONE raced prominently all the way, but just found QUALITY CONTROL too strong after the last. This looked a competitive event for the level and I’d expect both these two to go close next time.
HEEZ A STEEL stayed on for third without threatening the first two.
WISE CHOICE ran a decent race in fourth. He’s a fast ground specialist and I’d expect his trainer to line up a race at Perth in the spring or summer.
BEAU SADDLER found things tough from 4 out. NICOZETTO ran prominently to three out then cried enough. SNAKE CHARMER lasted a little bit longer but weakened in the straight.
A note from Doncaster where DOESLESSTHANME, a winner at Musselburgh in February, won the bumper by 4 lengths with a long gap back to the third. It boosts the form of that race at Musselburgh, and this one is apparently aimed at the Aintree bumper.
Decent weather and decent ground for Kelso’s most valuable meeting of the season. However, the spectre of the ‘low sun’ spoiled the Grade 2 novices hurdle, with both flights in the straight omitted.
2.00 2m 6.5f 0-135 Handicap Chase
CRACKADEE had to be worked on from a way out, but he does stay well and stuck on to take this at the death. He’s lightly raced and progressing, so there may be a similar contest in him.
I noted SCARVAGH DIAMOND last season from a decent bumper from which all the first four have won since, including multiple-winners Middleton Dene and Programme Girl. This mare has proved to be pretty useful stepped up in distance and has recorded three wins herself. On her first outing in handicap company she jumped very well, led on the flat but was just outbattled close home. She did nothing wrong and will be a force in similar races.
STANDIN OBLIGATION was held up and never got to the front line, though plugging on for third, and JIMMY BOND was one paced in fourth having been prominent most of the way.
NIRVANA SWING was still in contention when misjudging two out and falling, bringing down BRAVE REBELLION who had moved smoothly up to the leaders. This looks a decent event and on that basis these two are well worthy of consideration next time.
SNOWY was always out the back.
SILVER JACK couldn’t go the pace from a mile out, SILVER KNIGHT put in a second consecutive poor effort, and POSH STICK had no hope in this class.
2.30 2m 0.5f 4yo Novice Hurdle
LOS NADIS’s untidy jumping cost him the race at Musselburgh last time. He was a little better here, but there’s still something to work on. He jumped right over the last two flights and QUICK WILL was able to take charge on the flat. The latter has had a bits and pieces start to his hurdling career, but this form suggests he’s going the right way.
DANISH REBEL ran prominently as usual, and plugged on for third. In the lnog run I suspect handicaps will be best for him since he seems destined to find one or two too good in novices’.
GALANT NUIT stayed on from the back, and his form so far suggests a longer trip is required.
3.10 2m 1f Novices’ Chase
This looked likely to fall to BYWELL BEAU but he jumped violently right at the second last and his jockey had no chance of keeping him on the chase course. He raced in front as ever, but jumped right all the way. That being said he probably would have won the race, but jumping needs to be sorted out. He was hurdling in his previous race, being a successful front-runner in that sphere, so it may be interesting to see where his trainer takes him next.
CIRCASSIAN was moving up when falling at the seventh, not getting high enough and ‘burying’ Denis O’Regan.
The race was presented to OPEN DE L’ISLE, but it maybe slightly unfair to suggest he was a lucky winner, since he jumped well all the way round and was still in contention when Bywell Beau, and was not stopping at the end.
KEMPSKI couldn’t get to the front as he prefers and was never in contention and called ‘enough’ in front of the seventh.
ASTYANAX and CEBONNE completed the course in their own time.
3.40 2m 1f 0-144 Handicap Chase
A close fought contest.
MARCEL returned to chasing and held up early, made progress to get in contention 3 out. He then battled really well on the flat to hold on. His problem is that this is his mark, and if he goes up a few pounds it will make things tough.
ROMAN ARK and MAGIC SKY both had every chance and did nothing wrong.
KILMACKILLOGE led early, but couldn’t go with the front three in the final half mile. He was a pound out of the handicap here, and there’s plenty of scope for a drop in class which would make things easier.
POLAR GUNNER was outclassed and pulled up at the last, interfering with FIRST LOOK who unseated, Timmy Murphy jumping the fence without his partner. FIRST LOOK ran no sort of race here.
4.15 2m 2f Grade 2 Novices’ Hurdle
The class of runner here suggests this wasn’t the best Grade 2 event, though two left the rest behind. It was rather devalued as a jumps contest since the two hurdles in the straight were omitted due to the low sun, only 6 flights being jumped. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility to move one of the flights in the straight back to the side of the course, meaning only one would be missed out.
IGNOTUS was disqualified at Catterick since he was entered a day before the end of a 40 day ban. Dare one ask why the Catterick entry was accepted? He made up for that disqualification with a sound performance here, staying on gamely to hold PAGAN STARPRINCESS. The two came clear of their field. I suspect IGNOTUS may go to Aintree, though he'd have to step his form up another notch to have a chance there.
SCRIPTWRITER ran well enough to take third place and would be expected to land an ordinary novice event. LA VECCHIA SCUOLA ran up to her previous form in fourth place, and it wouldn’t surprise me if she picks up another novice event in the coming weeks.
OSAKO D’AIRY led early and QUICUYO took over 3 out, but neither were good enough when push came to shove.
4.50 2m 6.5f Hunters’ Chase
Consistent performer NATIAIN put up a decent performance on his seasonal debut. Challenged on the run-in, he held off Robbers Glen in determined fashion. He’s been a prolific winner in points and hunter events, and now goes to the Foxhunters’ at Cheltenham. It’s a step up, but he won’t go down for lack of determination. Credit to rider Mark Ellwood who was having his return ride after breaking his back at Hexham last year.
ROBBERS GLEN got a bit unbalanced on the run-in, and possibly the winner benefited form a slightly tidier ride close home, but the runner-up certainly put it all in and won’t find many as tough as the winner on the Northern hunter circuit.
ANSHAN SPIRIT had decent form round here last season, and ran an honest enough race if left behind by the first two.
JUST IN DEBT couldn’t go the pace from two out and needs a stiffer test.
The rest weren’t good enough in this company.
5.25 2m 6.5f 0-110 Handicap Hurdle
Back to a full compliment of hurdles, with the sun having disappeared.
ETCHED IN STONE raced prominently all the way, but just found QUALITY CONTROL too strong after the last. This looked a competitive event for the level and I’d expect both these two to go close next time.
HEEZ A STEEL stayed on for third without threatening the first two.
WISE CHOICE ran a decent race in fourth. He’s a fast ground specialist and I’d expect his trainer to line up a race at Perth in the spring or summer.
BEAU SADDLER found things tough from 4 out. NICOZETTO ran prominently to three out then cried enough. SNAKE CHARMER lasted a little bit longer but weakened in the straight.
A note from Doncaster where DOESLESSTHANME, a winner at Musselburgh in February, won the bumper by 4 lengths with a long gap back to the third. It boosts the form of that race at Musselburgh, and this one is apparently aimed at the Aintree bumper.
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