Going - GOOD TO FIRM
After a bit of a break, the Northern jumpers are back. Sedgefield's card included two moderate chases.
2.40 2m 0.5f Novices' Chase
Plenty of action early on with three departing at the first fence. Chase debutant IS IT ME set off in front, but crumpled on landing. The following ARTLESS, last seen sending Denid O'Regan into orbit over hurdles at Perth, had nowhere to go and was brought down. Meanwhile in behind LINDSEYFIELD LODGE came to grief independently. ELLERSLIE TOM nearly joined them and struggled to get into the race afterwards. I think the latter can be given another chance.
Twice a previous chase winner, ORPEN WIDE led the field jumping well. He came under pressure on the last turn, but produced plenty in the straight. Battling well under pressure, Orpen Wide came away on the flat for a deserved win. He had a 12lb penalty here for his two wins, so this was a creditable effort.His problem now will be a combination of novice race penalties and a high looking mark of 129 hindering his opportunities.
Irish challenger ROMAN VILLA had been below form in recent efforts over hurdles, but put in a decent run here on his chase debut. He had every chance but was held form the last.
MASTER NIMBUS oved into contention two out, had every chance at the last but was one paced. A decent chasing debut and I suspect he's a chase winner in the making.
ALL FOR THE CAUSE finished 9 lengths behind Master Nimbus in fourth, but was never seriously in the contest.
FILM FESTIVAL raced prominently early but fell away and this didn't match up to his previous chase form.
4.10 2m 4f 0-105 Handicap Chase
This race was run at a decent pace. Some didn't jump particularly well, but EBORARRY jumped boldly in fornt. He looked a sitting duck before two out but in the event battled hard and finished a creditable second. It would have been third if I'm Your Man hadn't capsized at the last, but still a decent run giving hope of a win in modest company.
I'M YOUR MAN was brought smoothly through from 4 out. He looked to have collared Eborarry at the last, though Golden Feather was hovering, but got was low at the fence and came down. He's generally a pretty decent jumper. This aberration can probably be ignored and he has every chance of winning again while in his current form. He's fairly versatile as far as ground is concerned so he should be ready for opportunities in the coming weeks.
Evan Williams has done nicely with GOLDEN FEATHER in the short period he has been in the stable. Not the first time Williams has secured significant improvement with a new inmate. He moved into contetion before four out, and once I'm Your Man departed, zoomed past Eborarry on the flat. He will presumably be shunted up a few more pounds, but there still seems every chance of another win or two.
DOWNING STREET probably found this trip on the short side. He made steady progress over the last few fences to take third. His jumping was better than previously which offers encouragement.
FIRST FOUGHT had been running in selling hurdles before this. His jumping was a little untidy at times and once the race began in earnest he couldn't go with the principals.
BLAST THE PAST's record over fences before this was U1PF2, so when he gets it together he's competitve. Looked to have a chance but then whacked two out and came home in his own time. He's got ability and is worth keeping an eye on.
And of the others...
MOOR SPIRIT is out of form right now and lost touch from 3 out.
PRINCE CAR, and expensive Wylie purchse, showed a little promise over hurdles, but showed little on his chasing debut. He was scrubbed along at the end of the first circuit and faded from there.
PRESIDENT PARK was behind all the way and pulled up.
CHIGORIN has some fair chasing form to his name but was never in this.
POLAR GALE was prominent till fading from 4 out.
CHUKCHI COUNTRY has gone well here in the past, but having chased the leader cried 'enough' from 4 out.
REASONABLY SURE ran creditably over 7 furlongs farther here last time, but couldn't go the pace set by Eborarry.
OSCAR TRIAL has never got closer than 12 lengths behind the winner to date and this run, well behind from early on, offers precious little encouragement.
The Northern circuit moves on to Perth for the two-day meeting which signals the end of the 2008 season at 'The Scone'.
Wednesday, 24 September 2008
Friday, 19 September 2008
Ayr Western Meeting 2008 - Day One
The Western Meeting commenced with the going reported as Heavy following the wet weather of recent weeks. Normally I’d be a little wary of the form recorded in the tough conditions, but I reckon there might be one or two interesting pointers to come out of the meeting.
2.20 6f 2yo Maiden
A run of the mill maiden, won comfortably by the most exposed of the bunch. KYLLACHY STAR was hard at work a couple of furlongs out, but picked up nicely to win with a bit to spare. There may be a novice event for this one, but it’s more likely to be handicaps.
FRONTLINE GIRL ran a decent enough race, staying on for second.
The most interesting one here was MOHAWK RIDGE, nibbled at long odds in the market, who started slowly but picked up nicely in the final couple of furlongs to finish third. I presume this one will step up in trip and there should be a race to be found.
LIBERTY TRAIL was always struggling and seemed to hate the conditions.
2.50 1m 2yo Novice Stakes
Four runners here, three with winning form and the fourth ROMANTIC INTERLUDE looking very slow.
The pace set by TALE OF SILVER was decent enough given the small field and conditions. The leader picked up nicely two out to see off the challenge of Guestofthenation. He’s progressing nicely and was given a good ride by P J McDonald.
GUESTOFTHENATION found the winner too good, but stuck on to hold the third, although his odd head carriage in the closing stages perhaps adds a cautious note. AAHAYKID in third couldn’t muster the pace to challenge and will probably benefit from longer distances in time.
3.20 5f 53-68 Handicap
A moderate level sprint, though there were enough in form to associate some merit to the form.
This was GRIMES FAITH’s first run in heavy ground and it was clearly no hindrance. Having been prominent from the start he was more able to keep up the gallop than the others. He’ll presumably get put up a few pounds for this. He may score again while the turf remains soft, but it’s significant that he’s only rated 60 on the All-Weather and may be well placed to exploit that mark.
ALMOST MARRIED never looked likely winning but progressed late for second. He’s got every chance of a win this autumn if moved up to six furlongs.
LAKE CHINI couldn’t offer enough in the final furlong under a penalty and could well be held now after two wins. WITCHRY stayed on from the rear for fourth.
WICKED WILMA hung for much of the way, and this apparently caused her saddle to slip and thus any chance she had disappeared. She’s better than this.
3.50 1m 2f (Class 4) Seller
A better than average selling contest, the front three finishing clear of the remainder.
SHE’S OUR LASS, the 1/2 favourite, seemed likely to take command two out, but couldn’t get away from her challengers. She was held close home. Retained by means of a friendly claim, she’s in foal to Guineas winner Cockney Rebel, and now retires to the paddocks.
80/1 chance JIM MARTIN gave it the works in the final quarter mile and just got his head in front close home. His trainer Linda Perratt describes him as, but on this evidence he as ability to win out of selling company if he wishes. It may be significant that this is the first time he’s run in testing conditions.
RESONATE didn’t seem to do too much wrong and was a head second. He tried hard enough and as a 10yo his best chances will continue to come in sellers and claimers.
The rest were held, although ULYSEES departed after three furlongs, unseating after colliding with the running rail.
4.20 1m 2f 78-92 Handicap
ALLIED POWERS relished the conditions, forging clear from 2 furlongs out and there’s more to come form this one, I suspect.
BLUE SPINNAKER ran a better race than of late, staying on for second without getting to the winner. WIGWAM WILLIE raced prominently but had no answer in the final furlong and a half.
BEST PROSPECT stepped up considerably on recent form, staying on from the rear and giving hope of a win in the near future.
ELLA WOODCOCK led early but went out like a light and was reported as not suited by the heavy going.
4.50 1m 3yo 54-66 Handicap
GRIT, fast away but then steadied, came to lead a furlong out and forged clear from RED SKIPPER, but may find the rise in the weights will make things tougher. RED SKIPPER ran well enough and may be favoured by a drop to seven furlongs.
The most significant run here probably came from seasonal debutant IBROX. He stayed on eye-catchingly from the rear for third and it would be no surprise if he makes up for lost time this autumn. Bear in mind from a value point of view, particularly if he runs in Scotland, that a goodly percentage of the Scottish sporting public wouldn’t back this one under any circumstances.
TAMASOU battled with Ibrox for fourth, having similarly come through from the back.
A number of those prominent early, NATURAL RHYTHM, TALON and DARING DREAM had nothing left in the last two furlongs. On that basis GRIT’s effort could be regarded of extra merit since he was prominent all the way.
5.20 7f 50yds 61-73 Handicap
KEYS OF CYPRUS has had training problems but is making up for lost time, the six-year-old taking his record to 4 from 7. Given that he entered this race on a mark of 63 plus a 6lb penalty, and that he forged clear readily, it’s not beyond the imagination that his trainer will place this one to win a couple more before year end. Evidence suggests he’ll handle a higher class than this.
NOK TWICE was slowly away, but stayed on from the rear to take second. Given that the winner is apparently better than this class, then Nok Twice might be expected to win before long.
BLINDSPIN was another putting in his best work at the end. NINEFINEIRISHMEN was up front until headed by Keys Of Cyprus and, though battling hard, couldn’t muster any extra reserves in the final furlong. He’ll find less tough assignments.
Note - If anyone tells you this meeting is called 'The Ayr Gold Cup Meeting' then please put them straight, it's the Western Meeting!
2.20 6f 2yo Maiden
A run of the mill maiden, won comfortably by the most exposed of the bunch. KYLLACHY STAR was hard at work a couple of furlongs out, but picked up nicely to win with a bit to spare. There may be a novice event for this one, but it’s more likely to be handicaps.
FRONTLINE GIRL ran a decent enough race, staying on for second.
The most interesting one here was MOHAWK RIDGE, nibbled at long odds in the market, who started slowly but picked up nicely in the final couple of furlongs to finish third. I presume this one will step up in trip and there should be a race to be found.
LIBERTY TRAIL was always struggling and seemed to hate the conditions.
2.50 1m 2yo Novice Stakes
Four runners here, three with winning form and the fourth ROMANTIC INTERLUDE looking very slow.
The pace set by TALE OF SILVER was decent enough given the small field and conditions. The leader picked up nicely two out to see off the challenge of Guestofthenation. He’s progressing nicely and was given a good ride by P J McDonald.
GUESTOFTHENATION found the winner too good, but stuck on to hold the third, although his odd head carriage in the closing stages perhaps adds a cautious note. AAHAYKID in third couldn’t muster the pace to challenge and will probably benefit from longer distances in time.
3.20 5f 53-68 Handicap
A moderate level sprint, though there were enough in form to associate some merit to the form.
This was GRIMES FAITH’s first run in heavy ground and it was clearly no hindrance. Having been prominent from the start he was more able to keep up the gallop than the others. He’ll presumably get put up a few pounds for this. He may score again while the turf remains soft, but it’s significant that he’s only rated 60 on the All-Weather and may be well placed to exploit that mark.
ALMOST MARRIED never looked likely winning but progressed late for second. He’s got every chance of a win this autumn if moved up to six furlongs.
LAKE CHINI couldn’t offer enough in the final furlong under a penalty and could well be held now after two wins. WITCHRY stayed on from the rear for fourth.
WICKED WILMA hung for much of the way, and this apparently caused her saddle to slip and thus any chance she had disappeared. She’s better than this.
3.50 1m 2f (Class 4) Seller
A better than average selling contest, the front three finishing clear of the remainder.
SHE’S OUR LASS, the 1/2 favourite, seemed likely to take command two out, but couldn’t get away from her challengers. She was held close home. Retained by means of a friendly claim, she’s in foal to Guineas winner Cockney Rebel, and now retires to the paddocks.
80/1 chance JIM MARTIN gave it the works in the final quarter mile and just got his head in front close home. His trainer Linda Perratt describes him as, but on this evidence he as ability to win out of selling company if he wishes. It may be significant that this is the first time he’s run in testing conditions.
RESONATE didn’t seem to do too much wrong and was a head second. He tried hard enough and as a 10yo his best chances will continue to come in sellers and claimers.
The rest were held, although ULYSEES departed after three furlongs, unseating after colliding with the running rail.
4.20 1m 2f 78-92 Handicap
ALLIED POWERS relished the conditions, forging clear from 2 furlongs out and there’s more to come form this one, I suspect.
BLUE SPINNAKER ran a better race than of late, staying on for second without getting to the winner. WIGWAM WILLIE raced prominently but had no answer in the final furlong and a half.
BEST PROSPECT stepped up considerably on recent form, staying on from the rear and giving hope of a win in the near future.
ELLA WOODCOCK led early but went out like a light and was reported as not suited by the heavy going.
4.50 1m 3yo 54-66 Handicap
GRIT, fast away but then steadied, came to lead a furlong out and forged clear from RED SKIPPER, but may find the rise in the weights will make things tougher. RED SKIPPER ran well enough and may be favoured by a drop to seven furlongs.
The most significant run here probably came from seasonal debutant IBROX. He stayed on eye-catchingly from the rear for third and it would be no surprise if he makes up for lost time this autumn. Bear in mind from a value point of view, particularly if he runs in Scotland, that a goodly percentage of the Scottish sporting public wouldn’t back this one under any circumstances.
TAMASOU battled with Ibrox for fourth, having similarly come through from the back.
A number of those prominent early, NATURAL RHYTHM, TALON and DARING DREAM had nothing left in the last two furlongs. On that basis GRIT’s effort could be regarded of extra merit since he was prominent all the way.
5.20 7f 50yds 61-73 Handicap
KEYS OF CYPRUS has had training problems but is making up for lost time, the six-year-old taking his record to 4 from 7. Given that he entered this race on a mark of 63 plus a 6lb penalty, and that he forged clear readily, it’s not beyond the imagination that his trainer will place this one to win a couple more before year end. Evidence suggests he’ll handle a higher class than this.
NOK TWICE was slowly away, but stayed on from the rear to take second. Given that the winner is apparently better than this class, then Nok Twice might be expected to win before long.
BLINDSPIN was another putting in his best work at the end. NINEFINEIRISHMEN was up front until headed by Keys Of Cyprus and, though battling hard, couldn’t muster any extra reserves in the final furlong. He’ll find less tough assignments.
Note - If anyone tells you this meeting is called 'The Ayr Gold Cup Meeting' then please put them straight, it's the Western Meeting!
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
Early September - Chasing Around Sedgefield......
Sedgefield - Tuesday September 2008
Keeping an eye on the Northern chasers with the autumn approaching...... Chances are we'll see a few of these in Scotland, or just over the border, in the coming months.
The final fence was omitted in both chases, fact ignored in the Racing Post's on-line results section.
3.35 2m 4f 0-95 Novices' Handicap Chase
On the face of it a lowly event but some fair pieces of form available for the level. I'M YOUR MAN won this nicely. He travelled well all the way, moved up along the back straight and then took it up at the last. He eased clear on the extended run-in. While the performance was sound enough, I do wonder if there's much improvement left since he's a 9 year old. He'll go up a few pounds, but may win again at a similar or slightly higher level (0-105 maybe?).
PERLY SPENCER made a great improvement on his previous effort over fences. He pulled a bit early on and led or disputed for most of the way. He didn't have the pace of the winner after the last, but he has three years advantage, is a dual winner in points and has a bit of scope for improvement. Best form to date has been on good or faster.
GRANITE MAN's jumping was not good. He made mistakes early on and was scrubbed along. He stayed on from the back but looks a rather frustrating type who may not be putting it all in. NGONG HILLS was prominent early, dropped back but plugged on for fourth. While, on the face of it, this form is moderate, he does have some time on his side. Not a huge amount of promise amongst the rest.
FRED BOJANGALS was a one paced fifth and never got into contention. HUGS DESTINY was prominent for a way but weakened after making a hash of the eighth fence. WOODY VALENTINE briefly threatened around the eleventh fence but then faded. PARTICLE was scrubbed along most of the way and made no show. SYCHO FRED and SEEK THE TRUTH didn't really get into the argument, and ALTO STRATUS was always out the back. TOULOUSE EXPRESS was raced wide early, lost touch by the seventh and pulled up at the last having been well behind for half the race.
4.45 3m 3f 0-105 Handicap Chase
The twelfth fence was omitted following CLEAR THE WAY's heavy looking fall on the previous circuit. The horse seemed OK, but the jockey received assistance.
GREAT GRIMSBY make have scope to progress at this lowly level. He's only 6, young for a staying chaser, and saw off this moderate bunch fairly comfortably. He improved after the seventh, was put seriously into the race approaching the fourteenth and, having led three out, outstayed his nearest rival on the long run-in. The rating rise he'll get will allow him another go at this level and I'd expect another win in a similar event this autumn. Worth considering in lower grade Northern staying chase in the coming months.
THUNDER HAWK has progressed nicely from hunter events to handicap chases in recent months. He didn't do much wrong here. Although held by the winner, he raced nicely up with the pace and didn't go down without resistance, proving in the process that he can cope with an extended trip. He'd not been far away in pretty reasonable events at Perth, and I'd say a handicap win is around the corner. It might be interesting if he's taken to Hexham since he has a hunter win under his belt there.
REASONABLY SURE was prominent most of the way but couldn't go with the first two from 3 out. While well held here he's not a lost cause for a handicap win.
SEPTEMBER MOON raced prominently but his jockey was pushing from a long way out. Plugged on for fourth but never seriously threatened at the business end. It could be that a sharper track would be more helpful.
POLAR GALE was never farther up the field than the fifth place he finished in. He had only raced once since last December, so it's likely that the race will have helped, and he has some winning form at a lowly level.
VICENTIO, having only a second chase outing, made a brief effort 4 out but wasn't good enough, fading into sixth. MR TWINS raced prominently for a couple of circuits then called enough. his performances over the past year show precious little promise. TIN HEALY'S PASS has shown ability in the past, but this was a third consecutive effort where he's been beaten a very long way. GRECIAN GROOM jumped abysmally and despite Tony McCoy's sternest efforts just never got his act together, pulling up on the final circuit. Previous form suggests he's better than this.
Keeping an eye on the Northern chasers with the autumn approaching...... Chances are we'll see a few of these in Scotland, or just over the border, in the coming months.
The final fence was omitted in both chases, fact ignored in the Racing Post's on-line results section.
3.35 2m 4f 0-95 Novices' Handicap Chase
On the face of it a lowly event but some fair pieces of form available for the level. I'M YOUR MAN won this nicely. He travelled well all the way, moved up along the back straight and then took it up at the last. He eased clear on the extended run-in. While the performance was sound enough, I do wonder if there's much improvement left since he's a 9 year old. He'll go up a few pounds, but may win again at a similar or slightly higher level (0-105 maybe?).
PERLY SPENCER made a great improvement on his previous effort over fences. He pulled a bit early on and led or disputed for most of the way. He didn't have the pace of the winner after the last, but he has three years advantage, is a dual winner in points and has a bit of scope for improvement. Best form to date has been on good or faster.
GRANITE MAN's jumping was not good. He made mistakes early on and was scrubbed along. He stayed on from the back but looks a rather frustrating type who may not be putting it all in. NGONG HILLS was prominent early, dropped back but plugged on for fourth. While, on the face of it, this form is moderate, he does have some time on his side. Not a huge amount of promise amongst the rest.
FRED BOJANGALS was a one paced fifth and never got into contention. HUGS DESTINY was prominent for a way but weakened after making a hash of the eighth fence. WOODY VALENTINE briefly threatened around the eleventh fence but then faded. PARTICLE was scrubbed along most of the way and made no show. SYCHO FRED and SEEK THE TRUTH didn't really get into the argument, and ALTO STRATUS was always out the back. TOULOUSE EXPRESS was raced wide early, lost touch by the seventh and pulled up at the last having been well behind for half the race.
4.45 3m 3f 0-105 Handicap Chase
The twelfth fence was omitted following CLEAR THE WAY's heavy looking fall on the previous circuit. The horse seemed OK, but the jockey received assistance.
GREAT GRIMSBY make have scope to progress at this lowly level. He's only 6, young for a staying chaser, and saw off this moderate bunch fairly comfortably. He improved after the seventh, was put seriously into the race approaching the fourteenth and, having led three out, outstayed his nearest rival on the long run-in. The rating rise he'll get will allow him another go at this level and I'd expect another win in a similar event this autumn. Worth considering in lower grade Northern staying chase in the coming months.
THUNDER HAWK has progressed nicely from hunter events to handicap chases in recent months. He didn't do much wrong here. Although held by the winner, he raced nicely up with the pace and didn't go down without resistance, proving in the process that he can cope with an extended trip. He'd not been far away in pretty reasonable events at Perth, and I'd say a handicap win is around the corner. It might be interesting if he's taken to Hexham since he has a hunter win under his belt there.
REASONABLY SURE was prominent most of the way but couldn't go with the first two from 3 out. While well held here he's not a lost cause for a handicap win.
SEPTEMBER MOON raced prominently but his jockey was pushing from a long way out. Plugged on for fourth but never seriously threatened at the business end. It could be that a sharper track would be more helpful.
POLAR GALE was never farther up the field than the fifth place he finished in. He had only raced once since last December, so it's likely that the race will have helped, and he has some winning form at a lowly level.
VICENTIO, having only a second chase outing, made a brief effort 4 out but wasn't good enough, fading into sixth. MR TWINS raced prominently for a couple of circuits then called enough. his performances over the past year show precious little promise. TIN HEALY'S PASS has shown ability in the past, but this was a third consecutive effort where he's been beaten a very long way. GRECIAN GROOM jumped abysmally and despite Tony McCoy's sternest efforts just never got his act together, pulling up on the final circuit. Previous form suggests he's better than this.
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
August Odds And Ends
Due to other commitments I haven't been able to do any updates for a while.
Here are a few odds and ends from recent weeks.
I missed out on Bank Holiday Monday visit to Newcastle after the downpours led to the abandonment of three consecutive meetings at the course. One of the Hamilton meetings went the same way. Most of the racing in August has been taking place on rain softened ground.
Alan Swinbank came with an interesting maiden winner at Hamilton last week in OZONE TRUSTEE. Swinbank horses which haven't seen the course by the age of 4 are often aimed at Bumpers. However, this one may have been considered better at the shorter trip, or indeed better than bumper level. He really only had the quirky Buddhist Monk to see out of the way here but did it comfortably. It wouldn't surprise me if he progresses enough to a handicap win or two. BUDDHIST MONK doesn't seem to have the right attitude and looks one to oppose.
At Hamilton on August 22nd ROTHESAY DANCER was once again teamed up with Kelly Harrison. Harrison record on this mare is 27 rides, 4 wins and 11 places. Rothesay Dancer needs bringing through late. May now need to drop a pound or two but keep this one in mind for next season.
LOS NADIS won the handicap hurdle on the Saturday at Cartmel, but still showed sketchy jumping. The phrase 'bunny-hopped' appeared in the form comment, so things aren't getting any better. This won't have been the most competitive race and I reckon this one might be under-priced in subsequent outings.
On the Monday, Jeff Sadik won the race named after his son Gus with DESERT TOMMY. Held up out the back by Richard McGrath, Desert Tommy stayed on to win this with any amount in hand. It wasn't a great race, but this one clearly stays all day and even raced 12lbs might still be worth a glance in similar races over the coming months. Only four finished, and the other three were out on their feet by the end. HIGH FIVE led early, but tired and finished a distant fourth. At the lowest level he is at least competitive and probably needed the race here. HUCKLEBERRY, on only his second chasing effort, put in by far his best performance to date. Given that he's only 6 years old then it's a fair assumption that there's more to come. As an inmate of the McCain stable he's in the right hands for a chaser and is likely to notch up a win or two.
The rest of the Cartmel, while being entertaining for jump fans, wasn't of much quality.
Meanwhile on the level at Ayr, KILLER CLASS is a sprinter who has progressed respectably. He won his Ayr race and handles soft going well. There's a possibility he might be one for a sprint at the Western meeting later this month.
Another that might be aimed at Ayr in late September is CHARLES PARNELL. This one ran a couple of respectable races over 7 furlongs. He goes just as well over 5 furlongs, so it might be worth checking where he is placed at Ayr, since he was a winner at the meeting last year. ESOTERICA was in second place, three in front of Charles Parnell, and this was a decent performance given that he is probably best on faster going (soft here). He would need some sun this month though.
At Musselburgh(August 31st) PRINCESS ELLIS ran a cracker from the worst of the draw in a Class 3 sprint. She has kept her form very well through three campaigns and looks one for another win before long. May be aimed at a sprint at Doncaster's Leger meeting. She's been placed in a Listed event, and is plenty competitive off a current mark of 85. ROTHESAY DANCER was down the field, but it was tougher than here normal level.
The Hamilton 'Series Final' Handicap on Sept 1st looked a decent event but KING OF THE MOORS came home clear and it might be worth sticking with this one in the short term. WIND SHUFFLE who was third, likes to dictate the race and will find easier races.
Other races on cards at Scottish courses have been Class 5 and 6 and I haven't found too many pointers at this level. Older horses are exposed and the younger horses are generally those less talented anyway.
I hope to take in at least one day of the Ayr meeting, and possibly one day at Perth's final meeting of the year. I've got Hexham pencilled in for October 11th and we'll have early meetings at Kelso by that time as familiar faces from the Scottish and Northern jump start to appear again.
Here are a few odds and ends from recent weeks.
I missed out on Bank Holiday Monday visit to Newcastle after the downpours led to the abandonment of three consecutive meetings at the course. One of the Hamilton meetings went the same way. Most of the racing in August has been taking place on rain softened ground.
Alan Swinbank came with an interesting maiden winner at Hamilton last week in OZONE TRUSTEE. Swinbank horses which haven't seen the course by the age of 4 are often aimed at Bumpers. However, this one may have been considered better at the shorter trip, or indeed better than bumper level. He really only had the quirky Buddhist Monk to see out of the way here but did it comfortably. It wouldn't surprise me if he progresses enough to a handicap win or two. BUDDHIST MONK doesn't seem to have the right attitude and looks one to oppose.
At Hamilton on August 22nd ROTHESAY DANCER was once again teamed up with Kelly Harrison. Harrison record on this mare is 27 rides, 4 wins and 11 places. Rothesay Dancer needs bringing through late. May now need to drop a pound or two but keep this one in mind for next season.
LOS NADIS won the handicap hurdle on the Saturday at Cartmel, but still showed sketchy jumping. The phrase 'bunny-hopped' appeared in the form comment, so things aren't getting any better. This won't have been the most competitive race and I reckon this one might be under-priced in subsequent outings.
On the Monday, Jeff Sadik won the race named after his son Gus with DESERT TOMMY. Held up out the back by Richard McGrath, Desert Tommy stayed on to win this with any amount in hand. It wasn't a great race, but this one clearly stays all day and even raced 12lbs might still be worth a glance in similar races over the coming months. Only four finished, and the other three were out on their feet by the end. HIGH FIVE led early, but tired and finished a distant fourth. At the lowest level he is at least competitive and probably needed the race here. HUCKLEBERRY, on only his second chasing effort, put in by far his best performance to date. Given that he's only 6 years old then it's a fair assumption that there's more to come. As an inmate of the McCain stable he's in the right hands for a chaser and is likely to notch up a win or two.
The rest of the Cartmel, while being entertaining for jump fans, wasn't of much quality.
Meanwhile on the level at Ayr, KILLER CLASS is a sprinter who has progressed respectably. He won his Ayr race and handles soft going well. There's a possibility he might be one for a sprint at the Western meeting later this month.
Another that might be aimed at Ayr in late September is CHARLES PARNELL. This one ran a couple of respectable races over 7 furlongs. He goes just as well over 5 furlongs, so it might be worth checking where he is placed at Ayr, since he was a winner at the meeting last year. ESOTERICA was in second place, three in front of Charles Parnell, and this was a decent performance given that he is probably best on faster going (soft here). He would need some sun this month though.
At Musselburgh(August 31st) PRINCESS ELLIS ran a cracker from the worst of the draw in a Class 3 sprint. She has kept her form very well through three campaigns and looks one for another win before long. May be aimed at a sprint at Doncaster's Leger meeting. She's been placed in a Listed event, and is plenty competitive off a current mark of 85. ROTHESAY DANCER was down the field, but it was tougher than here normal level.
The Hamilton 'Series Final' Handicap on Sept 1st looked a decent event but KING OF THE MOORS came home clear and it might be worth sticking with this one in the short term. WIND SHUFFLE who was third, likes to dictate the race and will find easier races.
Other races on cards at Scottish courses have been Class 5 and 6 and I haven't found too many pointers at this level. Older horses are exposed and the younger horses are generally those less talented anyway.
I hope to take in at least one day of the Ayr meeting, and possibly one day at Perth's final meeting of the year. I've got Hexham pencilled in for October 11th and we'll have early meetings at Kelso by that time as familiar faces from the Scottish and Northern jump start to appear again.
Friday, 18 July 2008
HAMILTON - Thursday 17th July 2008
Going –Good
A few showers before racing, but nothing other than ‘wetting the turf’ so the ground remained the same. The course was well presented, ready for the upcoming ‘Fair Friday’ Meeting.
A low standard card, and it’s difficult to imagination there are many emerging from this card to give the backer an advantage.
2.20 5f 2yo Maiden Auction
The Johnston newcomer was a non-runner, so some of the interest disappeared.
SUSIE QUW, noted as being ‘keen’ going down, broke smartly and went clear in the closing stages. She did the job well enough and will presumably move on to nurseries before long.
PADDY BEAR drifted in the betting from 11/10 to 7/4, though he seemed in good enough nick. He started tardily but stayed on well up the hill for second. Whilst this probably wasn’t a brilliant race, he seems to have progressed. An extra furlong shouldn’t be a problem.
ROYAL MUWASIM showed speed for 4 furlongs.
WHAT A FELLA seems a slightly ungainly galloper. To my eye he struggled with the slopes at Hamilton and may be better on a flat track.
WEE BIZZOM was well beaten and doesn’t look quick enough at the moment.
2.50 5f Claimer
The disparity between the top claiming price of £15000, and an owner’s prize value of £1772 says much about the organisation of British racing. Here we have horses potentially considered to be worth £15000 which, in theory, would have to win at least 8 such events to return it’s value. That makes the game ’expensive fun’.
On the face of it a competitive little heat with the six having shown decent form recently. In the event, the race only really involved two.
HARRY UP blazed a trail, only to be cut down in the last 50 yards. He was well clear of the rest and this was a sound performance.
GUEST CONNECTIONS is really a six furlong horse, and the finishing slope helped his final charge. He was outpaced downhill but picked up three lengths in the final furlong to win with a bit in hand. He won three of his first 16 race, but then had a 22 race barren spell. Now he’s picked up the winning thread again it could be there are more wins to come.
FIRE UP THE BAND was third best on the day, KINGS COLLEGE BOY couldn’t get to the leader, but has been running consistently in handicaps and is always worth consideration in his grade. HOWARDS TIPPLE, a bit worse off than in handicaps, didn’t threaten the leader. LULOAH needed to be on top of her game here, but ambled out of the stalls and had no chance from then on.
3.25 1m 65yds 46-65 Handicap 3yo (Due to rail movements actual distance approx. 1m 40yds)
This was a fairly lowly event and the runners finished in a heap, which uggests the handicapper has them where he wants them.
FLASHY MAX challenged 2 out, led inside the final furlong and stayed on well enough. He had no penalty for this race, since his win came in an apprentice race, so the rise in weights following two wins is likely to be bad news.
HASTY LADY, MGANGA and CASTLEBURY finished in a heap behind and look handicapped to their level. The very moderate MISS UNDERSTANDING was a couple of lengths back.
JOHNNY FRIENDLY raced freely in front and had nothing left in the final two furlongs. He raced like a seven furlong horse.
4.00 1m 3f 16y(1m 2f 211yds) Maiden
The first three were well clear in this event.
BUDDHIST MONK led, pulling hard early but settled after half a mile. He looked the likely winner 2 furlongs on, but then veered across the track. Seb Sanders dropped his whip so couldn’t correct his course. Whether the bit slipped or there was some other problem was not clear. Perhaps a quirky performer, though not without ability.
WELLS LYRICAL is possessed of great finishing pace, but stuck on well to pip the wayward runner-up and won’t be troubled by further.
DEER DAYLAMI ran possibly his best race to date, close up in third.
GARRA MOLLY fell away in the last three furlongs, CIRCUS CLOWN was never in the argument. The others were remote, RONNIES GIRL was cussed at the start and ROBIN DE LA FOLIE is a slowcoach over jumps and on the flat.
4.35 6f 56-75 Handicap
The best event on the card, which doesn’t necessarily say a lot.
The winner GRAZEON GOLD BLEND boasts a reasonable 4 from 23 strike rate and this performance suggests he’s going the right way. He’d been a promising thid to Dickie Le Davoir at Pontefract, and built on that here, despite pulling hard early he had enough left running on well to take it cosily.
STEEL CITY BOY led until close home. He didn’t really do too much wrong, and continues in good form.
KATIE BOO is handicapped right to her mark and ran an honest race in third.
HEUREAUX ran respectably in fourth without threatening to win. OPAL NOIR stayed on in fifth, if perhaps suffering from lack of a clear run through.
Word was that OPTICAL ILLUSION was fancied by connections here. He got left a bit flat-footed up the hill, and when he did pick up, he had knowhere to go. His rating does give some scope for a drop in class and he’s running well enough to pick up another race.
WESTPORT headed the race 2 out, but caved in once headed
5.10 6f 46-60 Handicap
A ‘whose turn is it today?’ sprint ended in a comfortable first victory for SPLASH THE CASH. He’d been somewhere near in recent races, but this was better as he led from the start and went clear in the final two furlongs. He’ll go up a fair chunk in the weights, so his trainer should be looking for a race before that rise takes effect.
OUEF A LA NEIGE worked his way through from the back in the final furlong to finish second. He does win in his turn, but isn’t a prolific winner.. If he’s to win at six furlongs he needs a race to fall into his lap, but I think he’s better around one mile.
FERN HOUSE is a good sort whose looks belie his lowly handicap mark. He had every chance and stayed on behing thirs place dead-heaters WOQOODD, who ran better than recently, and HIGH REACH who stayed on late.
RIDE A WHITE SWAN had every chance on the outside, and wasn’t good enough in the final reckoning.
PADDY JACK, previously in decent form, looked really well but ended up in last place.
CARTMEL
I took a glance at Cartmel’s races.
CLEMAX ran a gutsy race to win the staying chase. He finished with a ligament injury, and I get the impression that the injury happened some way out, so his determination was admirable though he may not be back on the tack for a while.
LYDON HOUSE stayed on for second in the Highland National previously, so it was no surprise to see him head down and staying on here. One to note for staying chase in Scotland and the North next season, assuming his trainer ships him over again.
ROSS COMM ran a better race than recently, but at 12 years old time is running out.
ZA BEAU probably didn’t beat much in the shorter staying chase, the top-weight was only on 87, but did it with no hassle and he may well pick up another chase or two at this level.
GOOD LINE strolled up at 33-1 in the closing novices’ hurdle. While he didn’t beat a huge amount he ran away from the others. He’s now being aimed at the Newmarket Town Plate.
OTHER STUFF
I'll catch up with a few Jumps Notes when I can, and i'll also have an account of a trip, brief though it was, to Taby Racecoures in Sweden.
A few showers before racing, but nothing other than ‘wetting the turf’ so the ground remained the same. The course was well presented, ready for the upcoming ‘Fair Friday’ Meeting.
A low standard card, and it’s difficult to imagination there are many emerging from this card to give the backer an advantage.
2.20 5f 2yo Maiden Auction
The Johnston newcomer was a non-runner, so some of the interest disappeared.
SUSIE QUW, noted as being ‘keen’ going down, broke smartly and went clear in the closing stages. She did the job well enough and will presumably move on to nurseries before long.
PADDY BEAR drifted in the betting from 11/10 to 7/4, though he seemed in good enough nick. He started tardily but stayed on well up the hill for second. Whilst this probably wasn’t a brilliant race, he seems to have progressed. An extra furlong shouldn’t be a problem.
ROYAL MUWASIM showed speed for 4 furlongs.
WHAT A FELLA seems a slightly ungainly galloper. To my eye he struggled with the slopes at Hamilton and may be better on a flat track.
WEE BIZZOM was well beaten and doesn’t look quick enough at the moment.
2.50 5f Claimer
The disparity between the top claiming price of £15000, and an owner’s prize value of £1772 says much about the organisation of British racing. Here we have horses potentially considered to be worth £15000 which, in theory, would have to win at least 8 such events to return it’s value. That makes the game ’expensive fun’.
On the face of it a competitive little heat with the six having shown decent form recently. In the event, the race only really involved two.
HARRY UP blazed a trail, only to be cut down in the last 50 yards. He was well clear of the rest and this was a sound performance.
GUEST CONNECTIONS is really a six furlong horse, and the finishing slope helped his final charge. He was outpaced downhill but picked up three lengths in the final furlong to win with a bit in hand. He won three of his first 16 race, but then had a 22 race barren spell. Now he’s picked up the winning thread again it could be there are more wins to come.
FIRE UP THE BAND was third best on the day, KINGS COLLEGE BOY couldn’t get to the leader, but has been running consistently in handicaps and is always worth consideration in his grade. HOWARDS TIPPLE, a bit worse off than in handicaps, didn’t threaten the leader. LULOAH needed to be on top of her game here, but ambled out of the stalls and had no chance from then on.
3.25 1m 65yds 46-65 Handicap 3yo (Due to rail movements actual distance approx. 1m 40yds)
This was a fairly lowly event and the runners finished in a heap, which uggests the handicapper has them where he wants them.
FLASHY MAX challenged 2 out, led inside the final furlong and stayed on well enough. He had no penalty for this race, since his win came in an apprentice race, so the rise in weights following two wins is likely to be bad news.
HASTY LADY, MGANGA and CASTLEBURY finished in a heap behind and look handicapped to their level. The very moderate MISS UNDERSTANDING was a couple of lengths back.
JOHNNY FRIENDLY raced freely in front and had nothing left in the final two furlongs. He raced like a seven furlong horse.
4.00 1m 3f 16y(1m 2f 211yds) Maiden
The first three were well clear in this event.
BUDDHIST MONK led, pulling hard early but settled after half a mile. He looked the likely winner 2 furlongs on, but then veered across the track. Seb Sanders dropped his whip so couldn’t correct his course. Whether the bit slipped or there was some other problem was not clear. Perhaps a quirky performer, though not without ability.
WELLS LYRICAL is possessed of great finishing pace, but stuck on well to pip the wayward runner-up and won’t be troubled by further.
DEER DAYLAMI ran possibly his best race to date, close up in third.
GARRA MOLLY fell away in the last three furlongs, CIRCUS CLOWN was never in the argument. The others were remote, RONNIES GIRL was cussed at the start and ROBIN DE LA FOLIE is a slowcoach over jumps and on the flat.
4.35 6f 56-75 Handicap
The best event on the card, which doesn’t necessarily say a lot.
The winner GRAZEON GOLD BLEND boasts a reasonable 4 from 23 strike rate and this performance suggests he’s going the right way. He’d been a promising thid to Dickie Le Davoir at Pontefract, and built on that here, despite pulling hard early he had enough left running on well to take it cosily.
STEEL CITY BOY led until close home. He didn’t really do too much wrong, and continues in good form.
KATIE BOO is handicapped right to her mark and ran an honest race in third.
HEUREAUX ran respectably in fourth without threatening to win. OPAL NOIR stayed on in fifth, if perhaps suffering from lack of a clear run through.
Word was that OPTICAL ILLUSION was fancied by connections here. He got left a bit flat-footed up the hill, and when he did pick up, he had knowhere to go. His rating does give some scope for a drop in class and he’s running well enough to pick up another race.
WESTPORT headed the race 2 out, but caved in once headed
5.10 6f 46-60 Handicap
A ‘whose turn is it today?’ sprint ended in a comfortable first victory for SPLASH THE CASH. He’d been somewhere near in recent races, but this was better as he led from the start and went clear in the final two furlongs. He’ll go up a fair chunk in the weights, so his trainer should be looking for a race before that rise takes effect.
OUEF A LA NEIGE worked his way through from the back in the final furlong to finish second. He does win in his turn, but isn’t a prolific winner.. If he’s to win at six furlongs he needs a race to fall into his lap, but I think he’s better around one mile.
FERN HOUSE is a good sort whose looks belie his lowly handicap mark. He had every chance and stayed on behing thirs place dead-heaters WOQOODD, who ran better than recently, and HIGH REACH who stayed on late.
RIDE A WHITE SWAN had every chance on the outside, and wasn’t good enough in the final reckoning.
PADDY JACK, previously in decent form, looked really well but ended up in last place.
CARTMEL
I took a glance at Cartmel’s races.
CLEMAX ran a gutsy race to win the staying chase. He finished with a ligament injury, and I get the impression that the injury happened some way out, so his determination was admirable though he may not be back on the tack for a while.
LYDON HOUSE stayed on for second in the Highland National previously, so it was no surprise to see him head down and staying on here. One to note for staying chase in Scotland and the North next season, assuming his trainer ships him over again.
ROSS COMM ran a better race than recently, but at 12 years old time is running out.
ZA BEAU probably didn’t beat much in the shorter staying chase, the top-weight was only on 87, but did it with no hassle and he may well pick up another chase or two at this level.
GOOD LINE strolled up at 33-1 in the closing novices’ hurdle. While he didn’t beat a huge amount he ran away from the others. He’s now being aimed at the Newmarket Town Plate.
OTHER STUFF
I'll catch up with a few Jumps Notes when I can, and i'll also have an account of a trip, brief though it was, to Taby Racecoures in Sweden.
Monday, 9 June 2008
Early June Update
Other commitments have meant I have been struggling to keep up with local racing in recent weeks, but here are a few notes from recent meetings.
HAMILTON June 5
All the excitement here concentrated on the opening two-year-old maiden contest. Leader VERINCO jinked right close home and bashed into LUCKY DAN, with both jockeys ending up on the floor. The theory seems to be that somebody near the winning post was waving and the horse shied. That being said, the finish at Hamilton is a bit of a funnel, with the trees on one side and the stands on the other, so it doesn’t surprise me if some nervous horses do shy a bit.
CALLEY HO was presented with the race, but was in the process of putting in a decent performance, staying on in third place. I wouldn’t be surprised if this one improves if upped in trip.
MINERAL RIGHTS has run well over seven furlongs this year but showed his versatility, going close over 5 furlongs. He should win soon.
OUEF A LA NEIGE went sprinting for a while last year but looks better over further. Staying on in the 1m 65yds 52-69 Handicap he suggested a move up in trip will do no harm and I’d expect a win before long.
THE BEAR ran a decent race in second in the 6f handicap. The winner OPAL NOIR is steadily progressing, confirming previous promise over the course and distance. YORKSHIRE BLUE can be frustrating, but gave a hint of a return to form when running into third. He does win in his turn, but is often well backed so it’s questionable whether he is value to back.
MANDURAH, RAINBOW FOX and COLEORTON DANCER were close enough to suggest they have a shout in upcoming events.
The versatile LA VECCHIA SCUOLA sluiced up in the last, a handicap over 1m 5f. It probably wasn’t the toughest race, but if her hurdles form is anything to go by she could be a good deal better than this level on the flat.
MUSSELBURGH June 7
SPIN CYCLE won what looked a competitive novice 2yo event and now goes for the Norfolk Stakes. The ones I would take out of this race are third placed KERRYS REQUIEM, still a maiden though surely not for long, and fourth placed newcomer ELEGANT CAD who mixed it well with some promising juveniles. The latter’s trainer has a reasonable record with two-year-olds and should place Elegant Cad to advantage.
RECORD BREAKER found more once headed in the 1m 6f Handicap. This looked competitive despite only 6 runners, he won’t go up far for a narrow win, and I suspect there is more to come. SIR DUKE came to win but was just outbattled close home.
On the face of it, ROYAL AMNESTY’s performance was disappointing, but given that this was a step up in trip and class I’m prepared to forgive this ‘miss’. He will find easier opportunities in 0-80 or 0-85 company.
The ‘Tradesman’s Derby’, a 0-80 3yo handicap included a few progressive sorts and was a close contest, RESPLEDENT LIGHT responding well close home to hold on in a tight finish. SUNDOWNER came from the back and just failed. I suspect this form is good enough that both can step up in class.
YES MR PRESIDENT veered toward the crowd in the closing stages and finished a close third. BETCHWORTH KID was another arriving from the rear, finishing not far away in fourth, just failing to summon an extra surge.
STEP THIS WAY led but gave way in the final furlong. He’ll find easier races.
In a race full of exposed sprinters, PRINCESS ELLIS made her record three out of three at the course in the sprint handicap, leading all the way from the no. 9 stall. Given that she would presumably have been even better suited by a rail draw, this performance might be better than bare value.
HEXHAM June 7
LETHEM PRESENT had a miserable winter, but has proved to be a completely different performer with faster ground and the sun on her back. She made most to win comfortably from a big field in the 3m 1f handicap chase. It’s notable that there were 17 finishers out of the 20 runners, which I would consider unusual for Hexham.
GET THE GIFT ran a very good race in second, given that this came after a five month lay-off. Should win a fast ground staying handicap chase soon.
Juvenile hurdles seem to start earlier every year, and SIMARIAN was clearly well ahead of the game for Evan Williams. Time will tell if he beat much, but given this start he should pick up another race or two before the others catch up.
HAMILTON June 5
All the excitement here concentrated on the opening two-year-old maiden contest. Leader VERINCO jinked right close home and bashed into LUCKY DAN, with both jockeys ending up on the floor. The theory seems to be that somebody near the winning post was waving and the horse shied. That being said, the finish at Hamilton is a bit of a funnel, with the trees on one side and the stands on the other, so it doesn’t surprise me if some nervous horses do shy a bit.
CALLEY HO was presented with the race, but was in the process of putting in a decent performance, staying on in third place. I wouldn’t be surprised if this one improves if upped in trip.
MINERAL RIGHTS has run well over seven furlongs this year but showed his versatility, going close over 5 furlongs. He should win soon.
OUEF A LA NEIGE went sprinting for a while last year but looks better over further. Staying on in the 1m 65yds 52-69 Handicap he suggested a move up in trip will do no harm and I’d expect a win before long.
THE BEAR ran a decent race in second in the 6f handicap. The winner OPAL NOIR is steadily progressing, confirming previous promise over the course and distance. YORKSHIRE BLUE can be frustrating, but gave a hint of a return to form when running into third. He does win in his turn, but is often well backed so it’s questionable whether he is value to back.
MANDURAH, RAINBOW FOX and COLEORTON DANCER were close enough to suggest they have a shout in upcoming events.
The versatile LA VECCHIA SCUOLA sluiced up in the last, a handicap over 1m 5f. It probably wasn’t the toughest race, but if her hurdles form is anything to go by she could be a good deal better than this level on the flat.
MUSSELBURGH June 7
SPIN CYCLE won what looked a competitive novice 2yo event and now goes for the Norfolk Stakes. The ones I would take out of this race are third placed KERRYS REQUIEM, still a maiden though surely not for long, and fourth placed newcomer ELEGANT CAD who mixed it well with some promising juveniles. The latter’s trainer has a reasonable record with two-year-olds and should place Elegant Cad to advantage.
RECORD BREAKER found more once headed in the 1m 6f Handicap. This looked competitive despite only 6 runners, he won’t go up far for a narrow win, and I suspect there is more to come. SIR DUKE came to win but was just outbattled close home.
On the face of it, ROYAL AMNESTY’s performance was disappointing, but given that this was a step up in trip and class I’m prepared to forgive this ‘miss’. He will find easier opportunities in 0-80 or 0-85 company.
The ‘Tradesman’s Derby’, a 0-80 3yo handicap included a few progressive sorts and was a close contest, RESPLEDENT LIGHT responding well close home to hold on in a tight finish. SUNDOWNER came from the back and just failed. I suspect this form is good enough that both can step up in class.
YES MR PRESIDENT veered toward the crowd in the closing stages and finished a close third. BETCHWORTH KID was another arriving from the rear, finishing not far away in fourth, just failing to summon an extra surge.
STEP THIS WAY led but gave way in the final furlong. He’ll find easier races.
In a race full of exposed sprinters, PRINCESS ELLIS made her record three out of three at the course in the sprint handicap, leading all the way from the no. 9 stall. Given that she would presumably have been even better suited by a rail draw, this performance might be better than bare value.
HEXHAM June 7
LETHEM PRESENT had a miserable winter, but has proved to be a completely different performer with faster ground and the sun on her back. She made most to win comfortably from a big field in the 3m 1f handicap chase. It’s notable that there were 17 finishers out of the 20 runners, which I would consider unusual for Hexham.
GET THE GIFT ran a very good race in second, given that this came after a five month lay-off. Should win a fast ground staying handicap chase soon.
Juvenile hurdles seem to start earlier every year, and SIMARIAN was clearly well ahead of the game for Evan Williams. Time will tell if he beat much, but given this start he should pick up another race or two before the others catch up.
Tuesday, 3 June 2008
Perth Gold Cup Meeting - Sunday June 1st 2008
Going: Hurdles - GOOD (Good to firm in places); Chase - GOOD TO FIRM (Good in places)
This blog is rapidly becoming a Perth and Hamilton focus, since my time has been limited and I’ve not been able to catch up with meetings at the other Scottish venues. I’ll endeavour to put that right in the next couple of weeks with updates posted.
A packed house for Perth’s premier meeting of the season, with the Perth Gold Cup as the centre piece. ‘Flaming June’ was hailed by a drizzly day as the rain moved north, the ground becoming slippery which caused problems to a number of the contestants, with four casualties in the area of the stands’ bend. The weather had been dry and pleasant in the preceding days, so the moisture on relatively dry ground caused problems.
2.20 Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle (2m 4½f )
This event was dominated by Irish trained runners. Their trainers presumably welcome the chance to avoid the huge fields in Irish maiden and novices’ hurdles, and can be found raiding the likes of Perth, Hexham and Cartmel on a regular basis, particularly at this time of year.
RECOVERY MAN won this with a bit to spare. Having been a late starter he’s progressed nicely over hurdles and his trainer spotted a nice opportunity here. Given a soft lead at a steady pace, he was only seriously challenged by Hi Density, and went away from 2 out to win without being asked a serious question. I’d expect him to
take a novice event under a penalty.
FLEMROSS made progress from the sixth but never got to the winner. Staying on nicely for second place the suggestion is that a stiffer test of stamina will help.
HI DENSITY won a weak mares’ intermediate event here last time and found the opposition tougher. She ran well enough to suggest she can win again back against mares, if a suitable event can be found.
STYLISH SHOT has had a few chances over hurdles and basically ran to previous form, staying on having never got near the leaders.
CORKAGE shaped well in bumpers last year, and took a chance at Cheltenham, but was well held on his hurdling debut. He was not far away three out, but couldn’t offer a challenge from there.
2.50 0-115 Handicap Chase (2m)
MANHATTAN BOY has decent record over fences, 34241621, his only real miss being when ‘tongue-tied’ for the 6, and seems to be progressing nicely. He was brought through smoothly approaching the straight and won with a bit more in hand than the 2 length margin suggests. Given further progression I’d expect another win this summer.
SEEYAAJ has stayed on well for second here and is competitive in these events, but it wouldn’t surprise me if his trainer took advantage of a lower handicap mark over hurdles. His last hurdle race was a creditable second to ludicrously well-handicapped Palomar, and off a mark of 104 I’d look to bet if he runs in a two mile handicap hurdle.
MEDIA MAN was a comfortable winner of a moderate maiden chase here last month, but pushed on nicely here with a decent run for third. He led to two out before running out of steam and looks a prospect for a handicap win off his mark of 96.
YANKEE HOLIDAY may just be held by the handicapper right now. He ran prominently but had nothing extra to offer in the straight.
HO PANG YAU was held up early, moved up down the back straight and briefly threatened to get involved, but couldn’t sustain the challenge. He’s a 10 year old and was making only a second chasing appearance, but wouldn’t be a total lost cause in a low grade handicap or novice handicap over fences. Given his form figures he’s likely to be running at decent prices.
TOM’S TOYBOX raced prominently until squeezed for room and slipping on the stands’ bend. He’s in good form at the moment and, since he seemed to suffer no ill effects, this run can be ignored.
CAULKEY’S BANK slipped and came down on landing over the water. A combination of the two horses coming down in the area resulted in the water being omitted in subsequent chases.
3.20 0-105 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (2m ½f)
TRANOS recorded a first ever win Flat or hurdles. Having been up with the pace from the start, Tranos kept on better at the death than Eumene or Cast Iron Casey. The three were clear of previous winner Pay On which may prove significant.
EUMENE got into the argument fairly late on which, given that he is probably suited by a longer trip, wasn’t a surprise. Moved up in trip he should be capable of a win.
CAST IRON CASEY ran well enough to confirm the form of his last time out win and will continue to be competitive in similar events.
ANOTHER AMBITION from Tony Martin’s stable was made 6/4 favourite, but looked to be under the cosh when coming down 2 out.
3.50 Perth Gold Cup 0-140 Handicap Chase (3m)
Last year’s event was won by Tamarinbleu, but it seems unlikely there was anything quite that progressive in the field. There were a few younger chasers to look out for, but in the end the raft of 7-year-olds chased home two more experienced performers.
A previous record at the course of 11323 suggested that BROOKLYN BROWNIE is well at home in the grounds of Scone Palace. Having performed well at the Festival meeting in April, he returned to win this in decent style, moving up smoothly down the back for the final time, leading before the last and holding Snoopy Loopy with a pretty decent bunch 13 lengths or more behind the two. Brooklyn Brownie will presumably go up in the ratings but his current mark of 120 suggests he will still get in the better events at this course and is always worth consideration here.
SNOOPY LOOPY ran a cracking race in second, leading into the straight and keeping on once headed before the last. He’s a 10-year-old, but doesn’t have huge mileage on the clock. Peter Bowen is well clued up on placing his chasers, and will presumably have a campaign mapped out this summer.
MEGATON ran a creditable race from the bottom of the weights. Another Peter Bowen runner, he stayed on for third place having been held up. This was a rise in class from his previous runs and he coped with it well enough. A current mark of 115 looks ripe for exploitation in lesser company.
COMMERCIAL EXPRESS has now raced here for 7 consecutive outings. He’s been a bit frustrating recently. Having been held up he stayed on for fourth. This was certainly better than his previous two efforts and offers promise for the summer campaign.
OUT THE BLACK was another staying on without threatening the leaders. He has a sound record of 4 from 14 over fences, but a 5lb rise for his Ascot win took his mark to 132 and makes his task a bit tougher since it takes him out of 0-130 class.
THISTLECRAFT ran a decent race in sixth, racing in contention to two out and would appreciate a drop in class.
MCEVOY led to four out, but it was hard work leading s competitive field and he gave way t that point. He would be interesting allowed the lead in a smaller field.
LANKAWI slipped on the stands’ bend which had been sanded after the previous incidents.
4.20 0-125 Handicap Hurdle (2m 4½f)
I noted ENGLISH CITY from a promising return at Kelso. On much more favourable terms he turned round the form with his Kelso conqueror Paradise Bay. He stayed on too well for the rest over the last two here. He strikes me as one who normally gives his running and, even with a rise in the ratings, should remain competitive in similar races.
PORTAVADIE had been having a wretched time recently, being lightly raced and really struggling. However, this was a much better run, staying on determinedly in the straight to take second place. He’s yet to win a handicap, but this run suggests he’s capable of taking a handicap hurdle. If he goes chasing again I’d need to be convinced he’d got his act together over fences.
PARADISE BAY went up 19lbs for his Kelso win and the extra burden seemed to tell here since he had no answer to English City from 2 out.
SUMMER SOUL plugged on past tiring opponents for fourth. Possibly needs a bit of a drop in the ratings.
4.50 0-125 Novices’ Handicap Chase (2m 4½f)
I’ve been ‘banging on’ about STRAVAIGIN since February and she has blossomed since being raced on faster ground. This was a significant rise in class for Jim Goldie’s mare, and she acquitted herself very well. Jumping nicely in front, she led to 2 out and battled on if not quite as quick as the first three. Her effort in ‘senior company’ at Cartmel showed a lot of promise. Given that the ground stays fast and with a drop in class I’m sure Stravaigin hasn’t finished winning yet. A step back up in trip would do no harm.
LOITA HILLS is lightly raced and progressive. He’s 6311 from 4 races over fences and showed enough here to suggest there are more wins to come. He was driven out to win, but I get the feeling there was more in the tank and he goes on the ‘Horses To Follow’ list.
NEWBAY BOB, who had been pointing and hunter chasing in Ireland, put in by far his best effort under rules here. He’d been off the track for two and a half months which may have been helpful.
SPIRIT CALLING battled well to win here in April and remains in good form. The form looks sound and this one doesn’t seem too high on 108 so prospects for the summer are good. The value of his form is possibly shown since his previous chase placings had been in decent sized fields (13/14).
BEAU SADDLER, debuting over fences, was prominent early but found these too good. His jumping looked sound enough, but a longer trip and drop in class would help.
5.20 NH Flat Race (2m ½f)
Based on the previous runs of the winner and third the form can be taken at face value.
PRESENT GESTURE, a winner in Ireland last time, won nicely and future prospects now depend on how she jumps hurdles.
ONE MORE GYPSY stepped up on a promising Bangor run, chased the winner up the straight and is going the right way. Every chance of picking up a similar event soon.
KINNAIRD PARK stayed on well up the straight and performed at pretty much the same level as his debut. He’s a brother to Sapient who was a chase winner over further, so I presume a longer trip over obstacles will help.
TIME TO PANIC and TRITON were found out for speed in the straight.
The favourite QUACITY appears to have wonky steering, since he hung left all the way. Given that disadvantage he probably didn’t do badly to beat half the field, and it will be worth watching to see if Lucinda Russell can cure the problem.
ROCKING ROD became another victim of the slippery stands’ bend.
This blog is rapidly becoming a Perth and Hamilton focus, since my time has been limited and I’ve not been able to catch up with meetings at the other Scottish venues. I’ll endeavour to put that right in the next couple of weeks with updates posted.
A packed house for Perth’s premier meeting of the season, with the Perth Gold Cup as the centre piece. ‘Flaming June’ was hailed by a drizzly day as the rain moved north, the ground becoming slippery which caused problems to a number of the contestants, with four casualties in the area of the stands’ bend. The weather had been dry and pleasant in the preceding days, so the moisture on relatively dry ground caused problems.
2.20 Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle (2m 4½f )
This event was dominated by Irish trained runners. Their trainers presumably welcome the chance to avoid the huge fields in Irish maiden and novices’ hurdles, and can be found raiding the likes of Perth, Hexham and Cartmel on a regular basis, particularly at this time of year.
RECOVERY MAN won this with a bit to spare. Having been a late starter he’s progressed nicely over hurdles and his trainer spotted a nice opportunity here. Given a soft lead at a steady pace, he was only seriously challenged by Hi Density, and went away from 2 out to win without being asked a serious question. I’d expect him to
take a novice event under a penalty.
FLEMROSS made progress from the sixth but never got to the winner. Staying on nicely for second place the suggestion is that a stiffer test of stamina will help.
HI DENSITY won a weak mares’ intermediate event here last time and found the opposition tougher. She ran well enough to suggest she can win again back against mares, if a suitable event can be found.
STYLISH SHOT has had a few chances over hurdles and basically ran to previous form, staying on having never got near the leaders.
CORKAGE shaped well in bumpers last year, and took a chance at Cheltenham, but was well held on his hurdling debut. He was not far away three out, but couldn’t offer a challenge from there.
2.50 0-115 Handicap Chase (2m)
MANHATTAN BOY has decent record over fences, 34241621, his only real miss being when ‘tongue-tied’ for the 6, and seems to be progressing nicely. He was brought through smoothly approaching the straight and won with a bit more in hand than the 2 length margin suggests. Given further progression I’d expect another win this summer.
SEEYAAJ has stayed on well for second here and is competitive in these events, but it wouldn’t surprise me if his trainer took advantage of a lower handicap mark over hurdles. His last hurdle race was a creditable second to ludicrously well-handicapped Palomar, and off a mark of 104 I’d look to bet if he runs in a two mile handicap hurdle.
MEDIA MAN was a comfortable winner of a moderate maiden chase here last month, but pushed on nicely here with a decent run for third. He led to two out before running out of steam and looks a prospect for a handicap win off his mark of 96.
YANKEE HOLIDAY may just be held by the handicapper right now. He ran prominently but had nothing extra to offer in the straight.
HO PANG YAU was held up early, moved up down the back straight and briefly threatened to get involved, but couldn’t sustain the challenge. He’s a 10 year old and was making only a second chasing appearance, but wouldn’t be a total lost cause in a low grade handicap or novice handicap over fences. Given his form figures he’s likely to be running at decent prices.
TOM’S TOYBOX raced prominently until squeezed for room and slipping on the stands’ bend. He’s in good form at the moment and, since he seemed to suffer no ill effects, this run can be ignored.
CAULKEY’S BANK slipped and came down on landing over the water. A combination of the two horses coming down in the area resulted in the water being omitted in subsequent chases.
3.20 0-105 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (2m ½f)
TRANOS recorded a first ever win Flat or hurdles. Having been up with the pace from the start, Tranos kept on better at the death than Eumene or Cast Iron Casey. The three were clear of previous winner Pay On which may prove significant.
EUMENE got into the argument fairly late on which, given that he is probably suited by a longer trip, wasn’t a surprise. Moved up in trip he should be capable of a win.
CAST IRON CASEY ran well enough to confirm the form of his last time out win and will continue to be competitive in similar events.
ANOTHER AMBITION from Tony Martin’s stable was made 6/4 favourite, but looked to be under the cosh when coming down 2 out.
3.50 Perth Gold Cup 0-140 Handicap Chase (3m)
Last year’s event was won by Tamarinbleu, but it seems unlikely there was anything quite that progressive in the field. There were a few younger chasers to look out for, but in the end the raft of 7-year-olds chased home two more experienced performers.
A previous record at the course of 11323 suggested that BROOKLYN BROWNIE is well at home in the grounds of Scone Palace. Having performed well at the Festival meeting in April, he returned to win this in decent style, moving up smoothly down the back for the final time, leading before the last and holding Snoopy Loopy with a pretty decent bunch 13 lengths or more behind the two. Brooklyn Brownie will presumably go up in the ratings but his current mark of 120 suggests he will still get in the better events at this course and is always worth consideration here.
SNOOPY LOOPY ran a cracking race in second, leading into the straight and keeping on once headed before the last. He’s a 10-year-old, but doesn’t have huge mileage on the clock. Peter Bowen is well clued up on placing his chasers, and will presumably have a campaign mapped out this summer.
MEGATON ran a creditable race from the bottom of the weights. Another Peter Bowen runner, he stayed on for third place having been held up. This was a rise in class from his previous runs and he coped with it well enough. A current mark of 115 looks ripe for exploitation in lesser company.
COMMERCIAL EXPRESS has now raced here for 7 consecutive outings. He’s been a bit frustrating recently. Having been held up he stayed on for fourth. This was certainly better than his previous two efforts and offers promise for the summer campaign.
OUT THE BLACK was another staying on without threatening the leaders. He has a sound record of 4 from 14 over fences, but a 5lb rise for his Ascot win took his mark to 132 and makes his task a bit tougher since it takes him out of 0-130 class.
THISTLECRAFT ran a decent race in sixth, racing in contention to two out and would appreciate a drop in class.
MCEVOY led to four out, but it was hard work leading s competitive field and he gave way t that point. He would be interesting allowed the lead in a smaller field.
LANKAWI slipped on the stands’ bend which had been sanded after the previous incidents.
4.20 0-125 Handicap Hurdle (2m 4½f)
I noted ENGLISH CITY from a promising return at Kelso. On much more favourable terms he turned round the form with his Kelso conqueror Paradise Bay. He stayed on too well for the rest over the last two here. He strikes me as one who normally gives his running and, even with a rise in the ratings, should remain competitive in similar races.
PORTAVADIE had been having a wretched time recently, being lightly raced and really struggling. However, this was a much better run, staying on determinedly in the straight to take second place. He’s yet to win a handicap, but this run suggests he’s capable of taking a handicap hurdle. If he goes chasing again I’d need to be convinced he’d got his act together over fences.
PARADISE BAY went up 19lbs for his Kelso win and the extra burden seemed to tell here since he had no answer to English City from 2 out.
SUMMER SOUL plugged on past tiring opponents for fourth. Possibly needs a bit of a drop in the ratings.
4.50 0-125 Novices’ Handicap Chase (2m 4½f)
I’ve been ‘banging on’ about STRAVAIGIN since February and she has blossomed since being raced on faster ground. This was a significant rise in class for Jim Goldie’s mare, and she acquitted herself very well. Jumping nicely in front, she led to 2 out and battled on if not quite as quick as the first three. Her effort in ‘senior company’ at Cartmel showed a lot of promise. Given that the ground stays fast and with a drop in class I’m sure Stravaigin hasn’t finished winning yet. A step back up in trip would do no harm.
LOITA HILLS is lightly raced and progressive. He’s 6311 from 4 races over fences and showed enough here to suggest there are more wins to come. He was driven out to win, but I get the feeling there was more in the tank and he goes on the ‘Horses To Follow’ list.
NEWBAY BOB, who had been pointing and hunter chasing in Ireland, put in by far his best effort under rules here. He’d been off the track for two and a half months which may have been helpful.
SPIRIT CALLING battled well to win here in April and remains in good form. The form looks sound and this one doesn’t seem too high on 108 so prospects for the summer are good. The value of his form is possibly shown since his previous chase placings had been in decent sized fields (13/14).
BEAU SADDLER, debuting over fences, was prominent early but found these too good. His jumping looked sound enough, but a longer trip and drop in class would help.
5.20 NH Flat Race (2m ½f)
Based on the previous runs of the winner and third the form can be taken at face value.
PRESENT GESTURE, a winner in Ireland last time, won nicely and future prospects now depend on how she jumps hurdles.
ONE MORE GYPSY stepped up on a promising Bangor run, chased the winner up the straight and is going the right way. Every chance of picking up a similar event soon.
KINNAIRD PARK stayed on well up the straight and performed at pretty much the same level as his debut. He’s a brother to Sapient who was a chase winner over further, so I presume a longer trip over obstacles will help.
TIME TO PANIC and TRITON were found out for speed in the straight.
The favourite QUACITY appears to have wonky steering, since he hung left all the way. Given that disadvantage he probably didn’t do badly to beat half the field, and it will be worth watching to see if Lucinda Russell can cure the problem.
ROCKING ROD became another victim of the slippery stands’ bend.
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