Going – Heavy
Scotland soaked up a fair amount of rain in the previous few days, the ground coming up as very testing. The first fence down the far side was omitted in all chases.
I was laid up with a heavy cold, so notes made from At The Races coverage.
1.05 3m 3f 0-90 Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle
There aren’t that many hurdles of this length in the season, and this was a pretty poor affair, with many of the competitors out of form, that is if they were ever in form.
DICKIE LEWIS was at or near the head of affairs all the way and, although tired, stayed on dourly for victory. He’s not a prolific winner, but all his three victories have come in heavy ground so one to consider when it comes up very testing.
ABERDARE has had a stop start career, and his wins have both been in the soft. Never far away and staying on but couldn’t maintain a sustained challenge.
ZAFFIE PARSON has won over a similar trip before and, having been at the rear at halfway, plodded through field for third. CONTENDO was fourth, moving up on the home bend but having no more to give in the straight. DALAWAN matched strides with the winner to a mile out but then faded.
TOPAZ LADY had moved up nicely to challenge Dickie Lewis three out but blundered and lost her rider. She seemed to have every chance, acts well in the conditions and is worth noting for a similar event at 3 miles or more.
1.35 2m 6½ f 0-125 Handicap Hurdle
Quite a competitive staying hurdle.
As is his way KEMPSKI set the pace, but weakened after 4 out as the challengers came at him.
BEAU SADDLER raced prominently and looked to have every chance when falling 3 out. I’m sure there’s a similar event within Beau Saddler’s compass though he is a bit frustrating.
TARTAN SNOW was prominent all the way, led on the run-in and had too much for REEL CHARMER and MIRAGE D’OR in the last furlong. REEL CHARMER had led 2 out and MIRAGE D’OR was in the mix without ever getting in front. Decent form from the first three.
POSH STICK had been well out of form and she was held up out the back, but stayed on from the home bend to finish fourth. She won over fenecs at Carlisle last year, and this run may signal a return to that sort of form.
MORE LIKELY was impressive in the winning the novices’ chase at this meeting last year, but has been out of sorts this season. She was prominent early but dropped away and was not in contention.
2.05 2m 6½ f Novices’ Chase
A decent early pace set by Shrewd Investor and Double Default.
The winner, BRAVE REBELLION came from off the pace, moving up smoothly from 3 out, leading on the flat and staying on. Stays further and should find another race.
TRUCKERS LADY confirmed the form of her previous race here, having every chance at the last but not quite good enough to get past the winner. She can probably win an open novice event, but a mares only chase must be at her mercy.
DOUBLE DEFAULT had a good go from the front and was still leading over the last. Faded close home, but in tough conditions this was a decent effort. A very promising first completion over fences and should win a similar event.
KIRKSIDE PLEASURE never quite got to the leaders and was one paced in fourth. WITCH WIND went well enough until running out of puff three out. A better effort than previous two chase runs, so worth keeping an eye on.
2.40 2m 2f Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle
A very steady pace here, not a strong event either and only a few got into the race. There seemed to be a lot of deadwood out the back.
ROSIE ALL OVER led all the way and kept on well. She will now have a double penalty in novice evetns which could make things tough. I presume connections may go for handicaps, though she may be capable of defying the extra weight in another mares’ novice.
IT’S TEESCOMPONENTS was prominent, but feeling the pinch when falling 3 out. May just pick up a weak novice, but I reckon a seller is likely to be her level.
CUTE N YOU KNOW IT came from well back, staying on for third. CAMELIA WALK was always prominent but couldn’t get to the winner in the last half mile. TARABALOO plugged on for fourth, and her pedigree suggests longer trip wouldn’t do any harm. CALOW GLEN raced prominently but faded in the straight.
BABY SISTER has some places in her form, but they don’t look much to shout about and she didn’t get a blow at the leading group.
The likes of MONEYLAWS, DOUBLE RUNNER and ONE BLACK CAT weren’t put into the race and look slow.
3.15 3m 4f 0-105 Handicap Chase
My favourite event on the card as the fine old ‘staying gladiators’ came out for this battle of attrition! I tend to note more on these events since I’ve got more ‘quiet moments’ to scribble down ontes.
SKENFRITH has been way out of form recently, an injury not helping, but his connections have been patient and were rewarded with an excellent gutsy performance here. He took the lead early on, disputed or led till the run-in when headed by Ryminster, but had too much stamina for that opponent in the last furlong. Skenfrith has dropped in the weights during his poor spell, so is well weighted for similar events. The mud suits him well as he clearly has deep reserves of stamina.
RYMINSTER looked the winner approaching the elbow, but then the tank registered empty and he struggled home in second. His commitment can’t be faulted, but he just looks held off a mark of 97, 16lbs higher than his last winning mark.
NEVADA RED stayed on up the run-in for third, having never been any closer. He’s only 7 so has a bit of time and I suspect will proof a force in these lower class staying events.
NO PICNIC ran a fair race in fourth, possibly finding the heavy going sapping his strength. On the face of it this was a fair run, and a slight drop in class and easier conditions may see him get his head in front.
HIGH FIVE wasn’t able to dominate this event as he had a lower class event last time. I suspect he needs to be in 0-95 company to win again.
MISS MATTIE ROSS was midfield most of the way, and currently seems unable to race her game to a winning level.
CASH BONANZA raced up with the pace until 3 out, but then faded badly. I think he struggles for stamina in these conditions, and I wonder if 3 miles on better ground might help?
LE ROYAL was never in contention, despite the fact that distance and going apparently suited.
GLEN TULLOCH seemed to going comfortably when unseating at the ditch past the stands on the final circuit. If she’s got a race in her Tony Martin can probably find it, but is a 9yo currently 0 from 13.
CARNDALE fell back from halfway.
SCRAPPIE was never going, didn’t jump well and was pulled up. A combination of the conditions and step up from novice company probably didn’t help.
DO L’ENFANT D’EAU was another pulled up, never really in the argument. Has run some decent races in long distance events, but never won beyond 2m 4f.
FLEETFOOT MAC is well out of sorts, never in touch and pulled up at the fifteenth.
3.45 2m ½f 4yo Novices’ Hurdle
This didn’t look a great contest to me.
SMUGGLERS’ BAY led pulling hard, tried to stop on the stands’ bend, but still stayed in front until the last. I suspect he will win again on better ground, but he clearly has quirks.
FLORENTINO got into contention going well 3 out, and went clear quite nicely on the flat. I have a bit of a soft spot for Guy Reed’s horses since I made a few bob when Chris Thornton first started training them way back. This filly should win another minor event on this evidence.
Apart from these two, RIGUEZ DANCER raced up with the pace, but couldn’t raise his game at the business end. ZOREN ran well for a way but was a psent force by the sixth flight. Nothing else got in a blow.
4.15 2m ½f NH Flat Race
There are normally one or two capable performers in these events at Kelso.
The Swinbank trained SCALE BANK set a steady pace, but faded over the last half mile.
KNOCKARA BEAU seemed to relish the tough conditions, led entering the straight and ran on well.
JIMMY THE SAINT stayed on for second. The McCain stable should be able to place this one to win.
If there’s one doubt about the form, it’s the presence of BAILEYS SURPRISE in third. He couldn’t match the first two in the final couple of furlongs but apparently stepped up on previous form. The fourth FISHING INSTRUCTOR is at least worth keep an eye on.
Thursday, 31 January 2008
Wednesday, 23 January 2008
January Notes
Catching up with a couple of meetings from January.
CATTERICK – Friday January 18th – Heavy
Just one race of interest here for me and that was the grandly titled North Yorkshire Grand National Handicap Chase, a title which takes the ‘National craze’ to absurdity. I hadn’t realised North Yorkshire was a nation, but there you go!
The weather was absolutely foul, pouring rain, a strong wind and bottomless going, so it was survival of the strongest.
2.10 3m 6f Handicap Chase
1st – LUCKY NELLERIE ran some decent races last season but he hadn’t clicked in two runs this term. This race played to his strengths as he stays all day and can keep up a good gallop and the light weight here must have helped, Michael O’Connell proving a very capable partner and the 5lbs claim reducing the weight to 9-12. Taking the lead at the second fence he was always in command, jumping well and although pushed along by 4 out he stayed on too well for the others up the straight.
2nd – BANNISTER LANE raced prominently, was ridden along down the back straight for the final time and, though staying on, could never quite get to the winner. He’s handicapped to the hilt and runs so honestly that there’s unlikely to be a respite, but he should be thereabouts in similar races.
3rd – SHARP JACK another who ran a very decent race, making progress through the field to move 2nd at the 17th, he threatened 3 out but then ran out of puff. A decent effort nevertheless and worth considering in Northern staying events.
4th – MOUSTIQUE DE L’ISLE ran n honest enough race from bottom weight, but wasn’t good enough to get into contention having just one pace at the business end. Performance here suggests that a drop to 0-110 or 0-115 class staying events would put him among the contenders.
5th – KING KILLONE was on the fringe for much of the race, but the weight told and he couldn’t get seriously into the scrap for the places. In less testing conditions, or perhaps with less weight on his back he would have more chance.
6th – CANADA STREET, in touch for a long way, couldn’t summon up reserves when they were needed. Under the conditions he was not disgraced.
7th – BELLANEY JEWEL moved up going on to the final circuit, couldn’t get to the front group and weakened in the final half mile.
8th – YOUNG SMOKEY was prominent early but fell out of contention at the 8th and plodded round to finish a couple of fences behind.
BANG AND BLAME and CLASSIC CAPERS were prominent early but weakened going on to the final circuit and pulled up 3 out. LAERTES was given reminders early, lost touch and was pulled up.
MATAMATA DE TENDRON was midfield when unseating at the 9th.
HIGH COTTON has never won, but has managed to earn just over £60,000 in 40 races for some placed efforts in decent company. He clearly hated the conditions, was soon remote, and eventually pulled up after trailing round tailed off. JUNGLE JINKS similarly was quickly well behind and though keeping going for quite a way was never ‘racing’.
CLEMAX whacked the second and was pulled up after the fourth fence.
KELSO – Friday January 11th
Going – Heavy
12.40 2m ½f Novices’ Hurdle
STARTING POINT put in a very game performance here. Leading from the start he was clear 3 out, but was then under pressure, reeled back in by the last but stayed on determinedly to hold on.
BEST PROSPECT was outbattled by the winner on the flat. He had some decent flat form, handles this going very well and should win a similar event soon.
RICH LORD didn’t have enough to go with the first two on the flat but performed creditably. CHARLIE TOKYO made a satisfactory hurdling debut, although he did have conditions in his favour. SILVER STEEL lacked pace in the final half mile, and I suspect chasing will be his game in time.
1.10 2m 6½f Mares’ Novices Chase
A cracking battle between two game mares in SCARVAGH DIAMOND and TRUCKERS LADY. SCARVAGH DIAMOND was scrubbed along from 4 out, but one thing she does is stay and just held on in a ding-dong finish. TRUCKERS LADY had only run twice under rules and the toughness she showed here augurs well for a similar contest.
1.40 2m ½f Morebattle Handicap Hurdle
A competitive event which used to be a conditions event at one time.
BYWELL BEAU is as game as they come and loves it round Kelso. He led as usual, was headed on the flat but battled back. He really seems to relish a set too once the others come at him.
FIRST LOOK led on the flat but was headed close home and won’t always find one as tough in opposition.
MOHAYER moved up nicely along the back straight, challenged three out but didn’t have enough left in the latter stages. He was not disgraced.
2.10 2m 1f Handicap Chase
CORLANDE and SOMETHING SILVER had this race between them from the start. CORLANDE went clear on the flat but seemed tired at the end, so I suspect he’s one for a two-miler whereas SOMETHING SILVER was still staying on and may be suited by farther.
OLIVERJOHN ran an honest enough race if never getting to the leaders, and MISS PROSS stayed on late.
Sad to see PILLAGING PICT pulling up and being reported lame. He’s been a grand campaigner, won gamely at Newcastle previously, and I hope the injury isn’t too serious.
2.40 2m 6 ½ f Novices’ Hurdle
On an afternoon of tight finishes there was another cracking duel in this race. MASTER BUILDER just held HARRY WOOD after a prolonged battle. Both come out of this with credit, though may need a little rest before appearing again.
TINTO VERANO ran respectably and is likely to have more chance in a handicap. PIMBO LANE was in the firing line until left after the last, but promises to be competitive in staying novice races.
3.10 3m 1f Handicap Chase
Many of the same old suspects out in this low grade staying chase, though I’ve got a fascination for these events going back countless years.
HIGH FIVE enjoyed himself in front and was no doubt suited by being able to dominate this field. He jumped well until a mistake three out meant he was joined for the lead, but then he stayed on again.
LE ROYAL was thereabouts most of the way, plugged on from 3 out to finish 2nd, and a furlong or two more presumably won’t do his chances any harm.
GENERAL HARDI challenged from 3 out but tired on the flat. Less taxing conditions might give him a chance.
WILLIE JOHN DALY is a long-standing rogue, his last win was that ‘waiting for company’ finish at Sandown, though he has ability when consenting to put his best hoof forward. He was ‘encouraged’ along early on, joined the fray by the eleventh and moved into 3rd after that but only plugged on for fourth. He may just have another race in him, but where and when is anyone’s guess.
LETHEM PRESENT was prominent early but fell away and is right out of form.
MARINGO was given reminders early and never going, BLACK SMOKE was struggling by the seventh and pulled up and FLEETFOOT MAC had a non-going day being out of it by the ninth. OSCAR TRAIL (fell 2nd) and MISS MATTIE ROSS (u.r. 4th) were early departures.
3.40 NH Flat Race
Like a few Kelso bumpers this looked competitive.
LET’S GO GIRLS won nicely and looks a likely one for a repeat win.
LIE FORRIT confirmed his debut promise and did nothing wrong in second place.
TEENAGE IDOL was a debut winner at Ayr, was well backed here and given that the conditions were similar to his debut this may be as good as he is on heavy ground.
EXCITING CAR raced prominently, had every chance and ran out of puff close home. A promising debut, from a stable which should bring him on nicely, and there would seem to be more to come.
JENNY POTTS and ETHEL BRIGGS came from behind to occupy 5th and 6th spots showing enough promise of better to come. Certainly both would be worthy of consideration in lesser events.
CATTERICK – Friday January 18th – Heavy
Just one race of interest here for me and that was the grandly titled North Yorkshire Grand National Handicap Chase, a title which takes the ‘National craze’ to absurdity. I hadn’t realised North Yorkshire was a nation, but there you go!
The weather was absolutely foul, pouring rain, a strong wind and bottomless going, so it was survival of the strongest.
2.10 3m 6f Handicap Chase
1st – LUCKY NELLERIE ran some decent races last season but he hadn’t clicked in two runs this term. This race played to his strengths as he stays all day and can keep up a good gallop and the light weight here must have helped, Michael O’Connell proving a very capable partner and the 5lbs claim reducing the weight to 9-12. Taking the lead at the second fence he was always in command, jumping well and although pushed along by 4 out he stayed on too well for the others up the straight.
2nd – BANNISTER LANE raced prominently, was ridden along down the back straight for the final time and, though staying on, could never quite get to the winner. He’s handicapped to the hilt and runs so honestly that there’s unlikely to be a respite, but he should be thereabouts in similar races.
3rd – SHARP JACK another who ran a very decent race, making progress through the field to move 2nd at the 17th, he threatened 3 out but then ran out of puff. A decent effort nevertheless and worth considering in Northern staying events.
4th – MOUSTIQUE DE L’ISLE ran n honest enough race from bottom weight, but wasn’t good enough to get into contention having just one pace at the business end. Performance here suggests that a drop to 0-110 or 0-115 class staying events would put him among the contenders.
5th – KING KILLONE was on the fringe for much of the race, but the weight told and he couldn’t get seriously into the scrap for the places. In less testing conditions, or perhaps with less weight on his back he would have more chance.
6th – CANADA STREET, in touch for a long way, couldn’t summon up reserves when they were needed. Under the conditions he was not disgraced.
7th – BELLANEY JEWEL moved up going on to the final circuit, couldn’t get to the front group and weakened in the final half mile.
8th – YOUNG SMOKEY was prominent early but fell out of contention at the 8th and plodded round to finish a couple of fences behind.
BANG AND BLAME and CLASSIC CAPERS were prominent early but weakened going on to the final circuit and pulled up 3 out. LAERTES was given reminders early, lost touch and was pulled up.
MATAMATA DE TENDRON was midfield when unseating at the 9th.
HIGH COTTON has never won, but has managed to earn just over £60,000 in 40 races for some placed efforts in decent company. He clearly hated the conditions, was soon remote, and eventually pulled up after trailing round tailed off. JUNGLE JINKS similarly was quickly well behind and though keeping going for quite a way was never ‘racing’.
CLEMAX whacked the second and was pulled up after the fourth fence.
KELSO – Friday January 11th
Going – Heavy
12.40 2m ½f Novices’ Hurdle
STARTING POINT put in a very game performance here. Leading from the start he was clear 3 out, but was then under pressure, reeled back in by the last but stayed on determinedly to hold on.
BEST PROSPECT was outbattled by the winner on the flat. He had some decent flat form, handles this going very well and should win a similar event soon.
RICH LORD didn’t have enough to go with the first two on the flat but performed creditably. CHARLIE TOKYO made a satisfactory hurdling debut, although he did have conditions in his favour. SILVER STEEL lacked pace in the final half mile, and I suspect chasing will be his game in time.
1.10 2m 6½f Mares’ Novices Chase
A cracking battle between two game mares in SCARVAGH DIAMOND and TRUCKERS LADY. SCARVAGH DIAMOND was scrubbed along from 4 out, but one thing she does is stay and just held on in a ding-dong finish. TRUCKERS LADY had only run twice under rules and the toughness she showed here augurs well for a similar contest.
1.40 2m ½f Morebattle Handicap Hurdle
A competitive event which used to be a conditions event at one time.
BYWELL BEAU is as game as they come and loves it round Kelso. He led as usual, was headed on the flat but battled back. He really seems to relish a set too once the others come at him.
FIRST LOOK led on the flat but was headed close home and won’t always find one as tough in opposition.
MOHAYER moved up nicely along the back straight, challenged three out but didn’t have enough left in the latter stages. He was not disgraced.
2.10 2m 1f Handicap Chase
CORLANDE and SOMETHING SILVER had this race between them from the start. CORLANDE went clear on the flat but seemed tired at the end, so I suspect he’s one for a two-miler whereas SOMETHING SILVER was still staying on and may be suited by farther.
OLIVERJOHN ran an honest enough race if never getting to the leaders, and MISS PROSS stayed on late.
Sad to see PILLAGING PICT pulling up and being reported lame. He’s been a grand campaigner, won gamely at Newcastle previously, and I hope the injury isn’t too serious.
2.40 2m 6 ½ f Novices’ Hurdle
On an afternoon of tight finishes there was another cracking duel in this race. MASTER BUILDER just held HARRY WOOD after a prolonged battle. Both come out of this with credit, though may need a little rest before appearing again.
TINTO VERANO ran respectably and is likely to have more chance in a handicap. PIMBO LANE was in the firing line until left after the last, but promises to be competitive in staying novice races.
3.10 3m 1f Handicap Chase
Many of the same old suspects out in this low grade staying chase, though I’ve got a fascination for these events going back countless years.
HIGH FIVE enjoyed himself in front and was no doubt suited by being able to dominate this field. He jumped well until a mistake three out meant he was joined for the lead, but then he stayed on again.
LE ROYAL was thereabouts most of the way, plugged on from 3 out to finish 2nd, and a furlong or two more presumably won’t do his chances any harm.
GENERAL HARDI challenged from 3 out but tired on the flat. Less taxing conditions might give him a chance.
WILLIE JOHN DALY is a long-standing rogue, his last win was that ‘waiting for company’ finish at Sandown, though he has ability when consenting to put his best hoof forward. He was ‘encouraged’ along early on, joined the fray by the eleventh and moved into 3rd after that but only plugged on for fourth. He may just have another race in him, but where and when is anyone’s guess.
LETHEM PRESENT was prominent early but fell away and is right out of form.
MARINGO was given reminders early and never going, BLACK SMOKE was struggling by the seventh and pulled up and FLEETFOOT MAC had a non-going day being out of it by the ninth. OSCAR TRAIL (fell 2nd) and MISS MATTIE ROSS (u.r. 4th) were early departures.
3.40 NH Flat Race
Like a few Kelso bumpers this looked competitive.
LET’S GO GIRLS won nicely and looks a likely one for a repeat win.
LIE FORRIT confirmed his debut promise and did nothing wrong in second place.
TEENAGE IDOL was a debut winner at Ayr, was well backed here and given that the conditions were similar to his debut this may be as good as he is on heavy ground.
EXCITING CAR raced prominently, had every chance and ran out of puff close home. A promising debut, from a stable which should bring him on nicely, and there would seem to be more to come.
JENNY POTTS and ETHEL BRIGGS came from behind to occupy 5th and 6th spots showing enough promise of better to come. Certainly both would be worthy of consideration in lesser events.
Saturday, 29 December 2007
New Year Sprint Day
MUSSELBURGH – Saturday December 29 2007
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
Horse racing met ‘human racing’ as Musselburgh held it’s New Year Sprint meeting, the cross-ties (a term which is presumed equivalent to semi-finals) and final of the event formerly known as the ‘Powderhall Sprint’ taking place between the horse races.
A decent holiday crowd on a sunny day were treated to some pretty decent racing.
12.15 2m 4f Maiden Hurdle
Thirteen runners here, but many who weren’t competitive.
LABOREC, who had run in two pretty decent novice events at Aintree, was settled nicely in behind the leaders, led at the last and held off a couple of challengers.
GUNS AND BUTTER, who looked hard fit, was brought through to challenge in the straight, but couldn’t summon up the extra pace on the flat. There’s probably a small race for this one.
One that caught my eye in the paddock was the big, strong gelding SEA SENOR. He has bits and pieces of decent form but disappointed on his previous run. He had every chance at the last but couldn’t summon the pace to hold the first two. He strikes me as one which might make a chaser.
MYSTIFIED led until 3 out then only offered one pace, being overtaken by CRIPSEY BROOK whose form here pretty much matched his 5th on hurdling debut.
I couldn’t get excited about any of the others.
12.45 3m 0-100 Handicap Chase
MISTER JUNGLE led early, was headed 6 out by Stoneriggs Merc and looked to be in difficulties entering the straight. However, it’s clear that he does stay and showed bags of determination, keeping on doggedly all the way up the straight, he got his head in front right on the line. His form has not been great this season, but this was a decent effort at its level. It would seem that three miles would be a minimum requirement.
STONERIGGS MERC didn’t do much wrong, and proved he stays three miles, looking the winner most of the way up the straight. I wonder if the 2 miles 6 furlong trip at Kelso might suit him?
SPORTS EXPRESS never got to the leaders but did stay on for third place. Back over fences, BAWRAAH was another one who never got to the leaders, he couldn’t find any extra pace once turned for home. COUNT FOSCO threatened after turning for home but faded from 2 out. CASH ON FRIDAY is probably better at shorter, but never got into the argument.
ASTON has ability, but was not on good terms with himself, jumping poorly and lasting 11 fences before being pulled up.
1.20 2m 3yo Novices’ Hurdle
LOS NADIS confirmed previous form, leading most of the way and staying on too strongly for the rest.
LA VECCHIA SCUOLA looked the danger on form, but she made an awful hash of the second and, though recovering, struggled to get back into the race. She stayed on into fifth and should be kept in mind for another chance.
FIRST BUDDY made a decent hurdling debut. He pulled hard early, but went well once settled and was in contention down the straight though held on the flat. On this evidence he must surely win a hurdle.
DANISH REBEL kept on for a distant third, and DESERT RAT, having been prominent early, faded into fourth.
CALZAGHE went well before almost coming down at the sixth, after which he had no chance.
1.50 2m 4f 0-115 Handicap Hurdle
I wasn’t a fan of PATAVIUM on the flat but he performed really well here. Settled behind the leader jumping well, he took over 4 out and hurdled swiftly and accurately in the straight then held of JACK THE BLASTER, the two of them clear of TICKATEAL.
JACK THE BLASTER did nothing wrong and should pick up another race.
TICKATEAL moved up on the final bend but never got to the leaders, similarly ROYAL MELBOURNE who was fourth.
HEAVENLY CHORUS was outpaced on the home bend, finishing a one paced fifth.
TIGER KING is possibly on a stiff mark now, prominent early but fading in the straight.
2.19 New Year Sprint
16 year old Craig Robertson of Gala running off a 9.5m start won by 0.03 seconds from David Rae (8.5m) of Hawick. The heats and final were closely contested affairs, suggesting that the ‘sprint handicapper’ knows his job!
The young winner this year, 16 is the minimum age for entry, is in contrast to last year’s winner Tony Bowman who was 71. Bowman didn’t get past the heats this year.
2.20 2m Introductory Hurdle
Though the opposition may not be great shakes, KALAHARI KING doddled up here. He should progress.
LUNA LANDING was well held in a moderate maiden here earlier in December. He led until headed by the winner in the straight, but stayed on under pressure for second.
SPEEDY DIRECTA, a long distance traveller from Oxfordshire, raced prominently and kept on in third. COLLATERAL DAMAGE moved up to challenge three out, but couldn’t go with the first two, fading into fourth.
KNIGHT VALLIANT looked impressive when winning the first leg of Luna Landing’s maiden here in early December, but he was put in his place here, having every chance and seemingly not good enough, finishing sixth with TUCKER (fifth) turning round previous form.
STILL AT LUNCH had shown form in moderate bumpers, but struggled here. He pulled hard, looked distinctly green down the back and never got out of last place.
2.55 2m 0-125 Handicap Chase
I had a fair handle on this event since I’d seen all bar Some Touch in live action over recent months.
The importance of swift accurate jumping was illustrated perfectly by the winner SHARES. Over the four fences down the back straight he gained a length on the field at each, then his jumping was superior to that of SOME TOUCH over the final four fences. I doubt he’s as quick on the flat as his rival, but his jumping was the key. SHARES was 12/1 here, and I availed myself of that since he's consistent at this level. His Ayr run can probably be excused due to the heavy ground, Ayr can be hard work in the mud, and his fourth at Kelso was a creditable hurdles performance.
SOME TOUCH hit a couple when the chips were down, but his form suggests he will probably find a race soon. He went well enough in front, but being harried by the hard-puller YANKEE HOLIDAY probably wouldn’t have helped him. YANKEE HOLIDAY wasn’t disgraced in third, and despite his headstrong nature is competitive at this level.
MAJORCA was not out of it when unseating three out.
GETON and GUERILLA never got to the leaders and look to need a drop in class.
3.25 2m 0-135 Handicap Hurdle.
At the overnight stage this had threatened to be a one horse race, but with Thursday’s easy Kempton winner Palomar being pulled out it suddenly became a competitive heat. All the runners had a chance entering the straight, and I fancy there might be a winner or two to come out of this contest.
ALONG THE NILE had a creditable novice victory on his debut, and dealt creditably with more experienced rivals here. Four were in with a chance approaching the last but swiftly away from the flight, Along The Nile got the upper hand on the flat. I can’t see him going up a huge amount for this win, so another victory would seem likely.
FOLK TUNE raced prominently, held every chance and couldn’t summon up the extra pace, but he’s in decent form and goes well at Musselburgh.
The best pointer here might be for STAINLEY who put up decent performance on bottom weight. He led jumping accurately, and once challenged battled well before being found wanting for pace after the last. There will be less competitive races for him, particularly if eased I class a little. Make a note of this one for a two mile handicap on similar ground.
REGENT’S SECRET and DANCING LYRA had every chance between the last two, but couldn’t summon extra reserves. MASAFI settled in second and was in contention early in the straight, but faded. CLASSIC GOLD similarly faded in the home straight, but his best form is on top of the ground and the overnight rain would not have helped.
Going – Good To Soft (Good in places)
Horse racing met ‘human racing’ as Musselburgh held it’s New Year Sprint meeting, the cross-ties (a term which is presumed equivalent to semi-finals) and final of the event formerly known as the ‘Powderhall Sprint’ taking place between the horse races.
A decent holiday crowd on a sunny day were treated to some pretty decent racing.
12.15 2m 4f Maiden Hurdle
Thirteen runners here, but many who weren’t competitive.
LABOREC, who had run in two pretty decent novice events at Aintree, was settled nicely in behind the leaders, led at the last and held off a couple of challengers.
GUNS AND BUTTER, who looked hard fit, was brought through to challenge in the straight, but couldn’t summon up the extra pace on the flat. There’s probably a small race for this one.
One that caught my eye in the paddock was the big, strong gelding SEA SENOR. He has bits and pieces of decent form but disappointed on his previous run. He had every chance at the last but couldn’t summon the pace to hold the first two. He strikes me as one which might make a chaser.
MYSTIFIED led until 3 out then only offered one pace, being overtaken by CRIPSEY BROOK whose form here pretty much matched his 5th on hurdling debut.
I couldn’t get excited about any of the others.
12.45 3m 0-100 Handicap Chase
MISTER JUNGLE led early, was headed 6 out by Stoneriggs Merc and looked to be in difficulties entering the straight. However, it’s clear that he does stay and showed bags of determination, keeping on doggedly all the way up the straight, he got his head in front right on the line. His form has not been great this season, but this was a decent effort at its level. It would seem that three miles would be a minimum requirement.
STONERIGGS MERC didn’t do much wrong, and proved he stays three miles, looking the winner most of the way up the straight. I wonder if the 2 miles 6 furlong trip at Kelso might suit him?
SPORTS EXPRESS never got to the leaders but did stay on for third place. Back over fences, BAWRAAH was another one who never got to the leaders, he couldn’t find any extra pace once turned for home. COUNT FOSCO threatened after turning for home but faded from 2 out. CASH ON FRIDAY is probably better at shorter, but never got into the argument.
ASTON has ability, but was not on good terms with himself, jumping poorly and lasting 11 fences before being pulled up.
1.20 2m 3yo Novices’ Hurdle
LOS NADIS confirmed previous form, leading most of the way and staying on too strongly for the rest.
LA VECCHIA SCUOLA looked the danger on form, but she made an awful hash of the second and, though recovering, struggled to get back into the race. She stayed on into fifth and should be kept in mind for another chance.
FIRST BUDDY made a decent hurdling debut. He pulled hard early, but went well once settled and was in contention down the straight though held on the flat. On this evidence he must surely win a hurdle.
DANISH REBEL kept on for a distant third, and DESERT RAT, having been prominent early, faded into fourth.
CALZAGHE went well before almost coming down at the sixth, after which he had no chance.
1.50 2m 4f 0-115 Handicap Hurdle
I wasn’t a fan of PATAVIUM on the flat but he performed really well here. Settled behind the leader jumping well, he took over 4 out and hurdled swiftly and accurately in the straight then held of JACK THE BLASTER, the two of them clear of TICKATEAL.
JACK THE BLASTER did nothing wrong and should pick up another race.
TICKATEAL moved up on the final bend but never got to the leaders, similarly ROYAL MELBOURNE who was fourth.
HEAVENLY CHORUS was outpaced on the home bend, finishing a one paced fifth.
TIGER KING is possibly on a stiff mark now, prominent early but fading in the straight.
2.19 New Year Sprint
16 year old Craig Robertson of Gala running off a 9.5m start won by 0.03 seconds from David Rae (8.5m) of Hawick. The heats and final were closely contested affairs, suggesting that the ‘sprint handicapper’ knows his job!
The young winner this year, 16 is the minimum age for entry, is in contrast to last year’s winner Tony Bowman who was 71. Bowman didn’t get past the heats this year.
2.20 2m Introductory Hurdle
Though the opposition may not be great shakes, KALAHARI KING doddled up here. He should progress.
LUNA LANDING was well held in a moderate maiden here earlier in December. He led until headed by the winner in the straight, but stayed on under pressure for second.
SPEEDY DIRECTA, a long distance traveller from Oxfordshire, raced prominently and kept on in third. COLLATERAL DAMAGE moved up to challenge three out, but couldn’t go with the first two, fading into fourth.
KNIGHT VALLIANT looked impressive when winning the first leg of Luna Landing’s maiden here in early December, but he was put in his place here, having every chance and seemingly not good enough, finishing sixth with TUCKER (fifth) turning round previous form.
STILL AT LUNCH had shown form in moderate bumpers, but struggled here. He pulled hard, looked distinctly green down the back and never got out of last place.
2.55 2m 0-125 Handicap Chase
I had a fair handle on this event since I’d seen all bar Some Touch in live action over recent months.
The importance of swift accurate jumping was illustrated perfectly by the winner SHARES. Over the four fences down the back straight he gained a length on the field at each, then his jumping was superior to that of SOME TOUCH over the final four fences. I doubt he’s as quick on the flat as his rival, but his jumping was the key. SHARES was 12/1 here, and I availed myself of that since he's consistent at this level. His Ayr run can probably be excused due to the heavy ground, Ayr can be hard work in the mud, and his fourth at Kelso was a creditable hurdles performance.
SOME TOUCH hit a couple when the chips were down, but his form suggests he will probably find a race soon. He went well enough in front, but being harried by the hard-puller YANKEE HOLIDAY probably wouldn’t have helped him. YANKEE HOLIDAY wasn’t disgraced in third, and despite his headstrong nature is competitive at this level.
MAJORCA was not out of it when unseating three out.
GETON and GUERILLA never got to the leaders and look to need a drop in class.
3.25 2m 0-135 Handicap Hurdle.
At the overnight stage this had threatened to be a one horse race, but with Thursday’s easy Kempton winner Palomar being pulled out it suddenly became a competitive heat. All the runners had a chance entering the straight, and I fancy there might be a winner or two to come out of this contest.
ALONG THE NILE had a creditable novice victory on his debut, and dealt creditably with more experienced rivals here. Four were in with a chance approaching the last but swiftly away from the flight, Along The Nile got the upper hand on the flat. I can’t see him going up a huge amount for this win, so another victory would seem likely.
FOLK TUNE raced prominently, held every chance and couldn’t summon up the extra pace, but he’s in decent form and goes well at Musselburgh.
The best pointer here might be for STAINLEY who put up decent performance on bottom weight. He led jumping accurately, and once challenged battled well before being found wanting for pace after the last. There will be less competitive races for him, particularly if eased I class a little. Make a note of this one for a two mile handicap on similar ground.
REGENT’S SECRET and DANCING LYRA had every chance between the last two, but couldn’t summon extra reserves. MASAFI settled in second and was in contention early in the straight, but faded. CLASSIC GOLD similarly faded in the home straight, but his best form is on top of the ground and the overnight rain would not have helped.
Monday, 10 December 2007
December 9/10 Kelso and Musselburgh
KELSO – Sunday December 9
Gong – Good To Soft (rain most of the afternoon)
One of the best cards of the season at Kelso for this meeting. A bit of a soggy day, with the wet weather carrying over from Saturday.
12.20 2m 6f 110yds 0-105 Nov Hcap Hurdle
A moderate contest to start the day, with few of these showing any strong recent form.
Lightly-raced MENSIO stepped up on previous form, setting a decent pace, quickening clear into the straight and then holding on grimly on the long run-in. DORIS’S GIFT had shown glimmers of ability previously and came out of the pack to chase the winner, staying on determinedly but just held. Rated 79 and 76 respectively the first two at least have a chance of making progress up from their marks.
BEAU SADDLER plugged on into third, once again being tapped for speed down the side of the track. I suspect 3m+ staying hurdles in the North will probably be his most likely chance of success.
MR FLOPPY moved up 4 out, but lost his action and pulled up 2 out. MR EQUITY raced prominently but had nothing at the business end, and many of the rest were being shoved along with a circuit to go.
12.50 2m 6f 110yds Novices’ Chase
Kelso does throw up some cracking novice events, even if they are sometimes light on numbers.
NUDGE AND NURDLE, owned by the Yes No Wait Sorries and clearly named after my own batting style, make a very encouraging chase debut. Not hurried into the contest he moved up going very well 2 out and, once in front, battled well to hold on. Sometimes battling qualities are more a mark of quality of victory than ease of a win.
MR STRACHAN raced in second, challenged on the flat but was just held.
ICE TEA possibly had a little to find here but was not disgraced, jumping very well in front until ‘missing out’ the last after which he found the front two too strong.
LOVE THAT BENNY had a good run in the summer but possibly needed the run after a long off, since he was left behind from 3 out.
1.20 2m 6f 110yds Mares Only Novices’ Hurdle
Many were struggling with a circuit to go here. ZAFFARELLA was disappointing, dropping away and pulling up going out into the country for the final time.
VALENTINES LADY was prominent the whole way and battled well when clearly getting tired. UNCOMMITTED led at the last but then found the winner too strong.
Two were coming off long lay-offs, BONNIE ROCK was the only one making any forward progress at the finish, so is presumably favoured by a stamina test, and CRYSTAL RUNNER went third 3 out and kept going well enough to finish fourth.
1.50 4m 0-140 Borders National Handicap Chase
Another one of the Nationals!
Top weight RAMBLING MINSTER showed the class he possesses to win this with a bit in hand. He moved up 4 out, led on the flat and was always doing more than enough. PETITE MARGOT ran very creditably in second and should be a force in similar events this season.
KING KILLONE stalked the leaders on the final circuit, but ultimately had to settle for third. STRONG RESOLVE, a winner here recently, found the move up in class a bit more than he could handle, but lost nothing in defeat having been in the firing line from the start then fading on the flat.
On the evidence I’ve seen TRISON’S STAR doesn’t stay 3m 4f let alone 4 miles, so it seems odd that Ferdy Murphy persists with him over these trips. Until there’s evidence to the contrary, I’d oppose Trison’s Star in races further than three and a quarter miles. He was struggling going out on to the final circuit here and soon pulled up.
RUSSIAN SKY was up with the pace for a way then struggled, but this is way above his normal class.
2.20 2m 110yds 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
BUFFY was up with the pace as usual but knuckled on landing over the fifth. I wouldn’t worry about the blip, keep Buffy in mind.
KEMPSKI pulled to the front and set the pace but weakened from 2 out.
AUGUSTINE moved up 2 out, led on the run-in and was always doing enough to hold on.
SOUBRIQUET kept on well when headed on the flat and this was a decent effort in defeat.
The third LE ROUFGE FATAL and fourth HUSH TIGER had every chance.
2.50 2m 6f 110yds 0-145 Handicap Chase
Another decent class chase won by the lightly raced PATRICKSNINETEENTH, making the long haul from Cropredy in Oxfordshire. This 10 year old gelding has plenty of ability which has sometimes been hidden by his stop-start career. He is still more than capable at this level.
SCRIBANO EILE, stepped up significantly in class, ran a cracker in second, just being held on the flat. On this evidence he must surely win again very soon.
EURO AMERICAN plugged on for third, and EVER PRESENT, who is 9lbs higher than his latest winning mark, went well to 2 out before fading.
3.20 2m 110yds Maiden Hurdle
I thought Lucy Normile might have a decent prospect on her hands when SILVER BY NATURE won a bumper at Perth in April. Having shown up well over two and a half miles on his hurdle debut, Silver By Nature battled gamely to win here.
VICTORBANO was headed on the flat but didn’t give in easily.
SKIPPING CHAPEL disappointed on his previous outing but ran creditably here. He’s bred to turn in to a jumper so it’s worth keeping this one on a list of horses to keep an eye on.
SILVER STEEL was held by Silver By Nature at Perth and got no closer over hurdles. He probably has ability though, so don’t give up on this one yet.
Favourite SINITAS couldn’t go with the first two on the flat.
MUSSELBURGH – Monday December 10
Going – Good (Going stick 8.8)
This course soaks up any amount of rain, and despite a pretty miserable weekend in the Edinburgh area the ground still came up as genuinely good. The weather was bright but chilly, free soup tokens given out at the gate were welcomed.
A pretty run-of-the-mill Monday card, but there may be a few pointers for the future given that there were a number of novice contests.
12.20 2m Maiden Hurdle
A few interesting newcomers here. KNIGHT VALLIANT had the look of a jumper more than some and in retrospect I made a mistake siding with the jump form of Yachvili. KNIGHT VALLIANT looked well readied for the race, was prominent and jumped well, coming away from the rest with the minimum of fuss. He had fair form on the flat, but putting hurdles in his way seems to have been helpful.
YACHVILI had no answer when the winner went past two out and could one find one pace to finish fourth. He weakened over 2m 4f last time and seemed to lack two mile pace here, so placing may be a problem.
TUCKER is a strong sort and was a clear second best. His jumping wasn’t as sharp as the winner.
RUN TO SPARE probably needs further and stayed on to snatch third on the line.
NANTON’s flat form suggested he might get into the argument here, but he was never close enough to challenge.
12.50 3m C.J. 0-105 Handicap Chase
A case could be made out for any of these in what appeared a fairly open contest.
FINLAND fell at the third. WORLD VISION seemed to be going well enough but Tom Dreaper lost his irons at the eleventh and had to pull up, so the run can be ignored.
BALLITO was nicely backed, jumped and travelled well and left Four County Lad behind from two out. FOUR COUNTY LAD led from the second to three out and was well clear of the rest.
PHYSICAL FORCE just snatched a remote third on the line, but was well out of it in the home straight. LOST IN NORMANDY was left behind in the straight.
DOLLY DAGGER led early but didn’t jump well enough to have any chance.
1.20 2m Maiden Hurdle
The strong favourite here was POWERBERRY, dropped in class from his Irish runs. He was held up, but left flat footed as the leaders accelerated turning for home. He stuck on and didn’t lose ground, but only gained second on the run to the line. The obvious conclusion is that a longer distance will suit.
SEEKING JUSTICE had been down the field in similar company in Ireland, but in general it’s tougher to win Irish maiden hurdles. He led 3 out and went clear from 2 out. When questioned by the stewards, his trainer reported that the horse was suited by the better ground on this occasion. Since good ground is quite rare at this time of year in Ireland then that doesn’t seem unreasonable.
SUPERIOR STAR probably repeated the level of his Kelso effort in reaching third place. LUNA LANDING was ridden prominently but faded and finished fourth on a satisfactory hurdling debut.
TITINIUS promised to get involved but weakened in the straight. I believe connections were not displeased with the run and have a contest identified at Christmas time.
P’TIT VOUSTER led but faded quickly from 3 out.
1.50 2m 4f Novices’ Hurdle
CHECKERBOARD stayed on to win, being kept up to his work. On the face of it not an impressive performance, but he wasn’t stopping and I rather suspect he will be suited by further.
THE GLEANER a strongly built, very calm sort in the paddock, had every chance 2 out but a mistake at the last gave Checkerboard a decisive advantage.
JAZRAWY stayed on late for third. He’d pulled the jockey’s arms out on the way down so it was a reasonable effort. Needs to settle, but would not be without a hope of winning something.
MR BARNACLE led round the paddock by two handlers, showed a modicum of promise in fourth.
LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL who ran creditably in a handicap last time, led until running out of steam 4 out. ROURKE’S STAR and JOSHUA’S GOLD weren’t anywhere near good enough.
2.20 2m 4f 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
A competitive looking contest won in some style by top-weight KING DANIEL. He led 5 out and nothing got to him in the home straight, though BLUE POIS was gaining at the line. Given that each will probably get a 3 or 4lb rise it keep them in the equation in similar events.
SUPER BABY looked very fit but didn’t have the pace of the first two.
NICOZETTO who looks a hard puller, was held up but found himself unable to get in a blow in the straight. He did keep on well enough to suggest that a return to a longer trip will be of assistance.
SNOW’S RIDE was well placed when falling 4 out, and is still competitive at the weights given the ground doesn’t turn too soft. EVER SPECIAL was hampered by the fall but seemed to be struggling anyway.
2.50 2m 4f 0-100 Novices’ Handicap Chase
A lot of these were either lightly raced over fences or chase debutants. The winner OCARINA showed what an advantage a decent jumper can have at this level. Always prominent, he did hit one early on, but jumped well after that and was too good for the others once turning for home.
STONERIGGS MERC bandaged in front, moved into contention down the back, keeping on for second.
CASH ON FRIDAY kept on for third place but was never any closer, similarly COUNTRYWIDE SUN who kept on into fourth.
DIAMOND MICK went well enough in front to the eleventh but then faded.
LOADED DICE jumped poorly on his last outing. He wore blinkers here and, after early reminders he never got going and was pulled up. STICKY END looks a well built jumping type but is proving rather slow.
3.20 2m NH Flat
The one to impress me most in the paddock was DREVER ROUTE. This didn’t translate on the track. He was kept handy, but tapped for speed on the home bend and was always on the limit chasing the leaders, eventually finishing fourth. He has the look of a racehorse, but may just need a little time.
BROADWAY STAR finished second at Hexham first time out, and stepped up on that, forging clear in the final furlong.
CLASSIC MOON ran two decent races in big field Irish bumpers, and confirmed promise in a creditable second.
ROOM AT THE TOP is possibly getting the hang of racing, staying on for third.
Gong – Good To Soft (rain most of the afternoon)
One of the best cards of the season at Kelso for this meeting. A bit of a soggy day, with the wet weather carrying over from Saturday.
12.20 2m 6f 110yds 0-105 Nov Hcap Hurdle
A moderate contest to start the day, with few of these showing any strong recent form.
Lightly-raced MENSIO stepped up on previous form, setting a decent pace, quickening clear into the straight and then holding on grimly on the long run-in. DORIS’S GIFT had shown glimmers of ability previously and came out of the pack to chase the winner, staying on determinedly but just held. Rated 79 and 76 respectively the first two at least have a chance of making progress up from their marks.
BEAU SADDLER plugged on into third, once again being tapped for speed down the side of the track. I suspect 3m+ staying hurdles in the North will probably be his most likely chance of success.
MR FLOPPY moved up 4 out, but lost his action and pulled up 2 out. MR EQUITY raced prominently but had nothing at the business end, and many of the rest were being shoved along with a circuit to go.
12.50 2m 6f 110yds Novices’ Chase
Kelso does throw up some cracking novice events, even if they are sometimes light on numbers.
NUDGE AND NURDLE, owned by the Yes No Wait Sorries and clearly named after my own batting style, make a very encouraging chase debut. Not hurried into the contest he moved up going very well 2 out and, once in front, battled well to hold on. Sometimes battling qualities are more a mark of quality of victory than ease of a win.
MR STRACHAN raced in second, challenged on the flat but was just held.
ICE TEA possibly had a little to find here but was not disgraced, jumping very well in front until ‘missing out’ the last after which he found the front two too strong.
LOVE THAT BENNY had a good run in the summer but possibly needed the run after a long off, since he was left behind from 3 out.
1.20 2m 6f 110yds Mares Only Novices’ Hurdle
Many were struggling with a circuit to go here. ZAFFARELLA was disappointing, dropping away and pulling up going out into the country for the final time.
VALENTINES LADY was prominent the whole way and battled well when clearly getting tired. UNCOMMITTED led at the last but then found the winner too strong.
Two were coming off long lay-offs, BONNIE ROCK was the only one making any forward progress at the finish, so is presumably favoured by a stamina test, and CRYSTAL RUNNER went third 3 out and kept going well enough to finish fourth.
1.50 4m 0-140 Borders National Handicap Chase
Another one of the Nationals!
Top weight RAMBLING MINSTER showed the class he possesses to win this with a bit in hand. He moved up 4 out, led on the flat and was always doing more than enough. PETITE MARGOT ran very creditably in second and should be a force in similar events this season.
KING KILLONE stalked the leaders on the final circuit, but ultimately had to settle for third. STRONG RESOLVE, a winner here recently, found the move up in class a bit more than he could handle, but lost nothing in defeat having been in the firing line from the start then fading on the flat.
On the evidence I’ve seen TRISON’S STAR doesn’t stay 3m 4f let alone 4 miles, so it seems odd that Ferdy Murphy persists with him over these trips. Until there’s evidence to the contrary, I’d oppose Trison’s Star in races further than three and a quarter miles. He was struggling going out on to the final circuit here and soon pulled up.
RUSSIAN SKY was up with the pace for a way then struggled, but this is way above his normal class.
2.20 2m 110yds 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
BUFFY was up with the pace as usual but knuckled on landing over the fifth. I wouldn’t worry about the blip, keep Buffy in mind.
KEMPSKI pulled to the front and set the pace but weakened from 2 out.
AUGUSTINE moved up 2 out, led on the run-in and was always doing enough to hold on.
SOUBRIQUET kept on well when headed on the flat and this was a decent effort in defeat.
The third LE ROUFGE FATAL and fourth HUSH TIGER had every chance.
2.50 2m 6f 110yds 0-145 Handicap Chase
Another decent class chase won by the lightly raced PATRICKSNINETEENTH, making the long haul from Cropredy in Oxfordshire. This 10 year old gelding has plenty of ability which has sometimes been hidden by his stop-start career. He is still more than capable at this level.
SCRIBANO EILE, stepped up significantly in class, ran a cracker in second, just being held on the flat. On this evidence he must surely win again very soon.
EURO AMERICAN plugged on for third, and EVER PRESENT, who is 9lbs higher than his latest winning mark, went well to 2 out before fading.
3.20 2m 110yds Maiden Hurdle
I thought Lucy Normile might have a decent prospect on her hands when SILVER BY NATURE won a bumper at Perth in April. Having shown up well over two and a half miles on his hurdle debut, Silver By Nature battled gamely to win here.
VICTORBANO was headed on the flat but didn’t give in easily.
SKIPPING CHAPEL disappointed on his previous outing but ran creditably here. He’s bred to turn in to a jumper so it’s worth keeping this one on a list of horses to keep an eye on.
SILVER STEEL was held by Silver By Nature at Perth and got no closer over hurdles. He probably has ability though, so don’t give up on this one yet.
Favourite SINITAS couldn’t go with the first two on the flat.
MUSSELBURGH – Monday December 10
Going – Good (Going stick 8.8)
This course soaks up any amount of rain, and despite a pretty miserable weekend in the Edinburgh area the ground still came up as genuinely good. The weather was bright but chilly, free soup tokens given out at the gate were welcomed.
A pretty run-of-the-mill Monday card, but there may be a few pointers for the future given that there were a number of novice contests.
12.20 2m Maiden Hurdle
A few interesting newcomers here. KNIGHT VALLIANT had the look of a jumper more than some and in retrospect I made a mistake siding with the jump form of Yachvili. KNIGHT VALLIANT looked well readied for the race, was prominent and jumped well, coming away from the rest with the minimum of fuss. He had fair form on the flat, but putting hurdles in his way seems to have been helpful.
YACHVILI had no answer when the winner went past two out and could one find one pace to finish fourth. He weakened over 2m 4f last time and seemed to lack two mile pace here, so placing may be a problem.
TUCKER is a strong sort and was a clear second best. His jumping wasn’t as sharp as the winner.
RUN TO SPARE probably needs further and stayed on to snatch third on the line.
NANTON’s flat form suggested he might get into the argument here, but he was never close enough to challenge.
12.50 3m C.J. 0-105 Handicap Chase
A case could be made out for any of these in what appeared a fairly open contest.
FINLAND fell at the third. WORLD VISION seemed to be going well enough but Tom Dreaper lost his irons at the eleventh and had to pull up, so the run can be ignored.
BALLITO was nicely backed, jumped and travelled well and left Four County Lad behind from two out. FOUR COUNTY LAD led from the second to three out and was well clear of the rest.
PHYSICAL FORCE just snatched a remote third on the line, but was well out of it in the home straight. LOST IN NORMANDY was left behind in the straight.
DOLLY DAGGER led early but didn’t jump well enough to have any chance.
1.20 2m Maiden Hurdle
The strong favourite here was POWERBERRY, dropped in class from his Irish runs. He was held up, but left flat footed as the leaders accelerated turning for home. He stuck on and didn’t lose ground, but only gained second on the run to the line. The obvious conclusion is that a longer distance will suit.
SEEKING JUSTICE had been down the field in similar company in Ireland, but in general it’s tougher to win Irish maiden hurdles. He led 3 out and went clear from 2 out. When questioned by the stewards, his trainer reported that the horse was suited by the better ground on this occasion. Since good ground is quite rare at this time of year in Ireland then that doesn’t seem unreasonable.
SUPERIOR STAR probably repeated the level of his Kelso effort in reaching third place. LUNA LANDING was ridden prominently but faded and finished fourth on a satisfactory hurdling debut.
TITINIUS promised to get involved but weakened in the straight. I believe connections were not displeased with the run and have a contest identified at Christmas time.
P’TIT VOUSTER led but faded quickly from 3 out.
1.50 2m 4f Novices’ Hurdle
CHECKERBOARD stayed on to win, being kept up to his work. On the face of it not an impressive performance, but he wasn’t stopping and I rather suspect he will be suited by further.
THE GLEANER a strongly built, very calm sort in the paddock, had every chance 2 out but a mistake at the last gave Checkerboard a decisive advantage.
JAZRAWY stayed on late for third. He’d pulled the jockey’s arms out on the way down so it was a reasonable effort. Needs to settle, but would not be without a hope of winning something.
MR BARNACLE led round the paddock by two handlers, showed a modicum of promise in fourth.
LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL who ran creditably in a handicap last time, led until running out of steam 4 out. ROURKE’S STAR and JOSHUA’S GOLD weren’t anywhere near good enough.
2.20 2m 4f 0-120 Handicap Hurdle
A competitive looking contest won in some style by top-weight KING DANIEL. He led 5 out and nothing got to him in the home straight, though BLUE POIS was gaining at the line. Given that each will probably get a 3 or 4lb rise it keep them in the equation in similar events.
SUPER BABY looked very fit but didn’t have the pace of the first two.
NICOZETTO who looks a hard puller, was held up but found himself unable to get in a blow in the straight. He did keep on well enough to suggest that a return to a longer trip will be of assistance.
SNOW’S RIDE was well placed when falling 4 out, and is still competitive at the weights given the ground doesn’t turn too soft. EVER SPECIAL was hampered by the fall but seemed to be struggling anyway.
2.50 2m 4f 0-100 Novices’ Handicap Chase
A lot of these were either lightly raced over fences or chase debutants. The winner OCARINA showed what an advantage a decent jumper can have at this level. Always prominent, he did hit one early on, but jumped well after that and was too good for the others once turning for home.
STONERIGGS MERC bandaged in front, moved into contention down the back, keeping on for second.
CASH ON FRIDAY kept on for third place but was never any closer, similarly COUNTRYWIDE SUN who kept on into fourth.
DIAMOND MICK went well enough in front to the eleventh but then faded.
LOADED DICE jumped poorly on his last outing. He wore blinkers here and, after early reminders he never got going and was pulled up. STICKY END looks a well built jumping type but is proving rather slow.
3.20 2m NH Flat
The one to impress me most in the paddock was DREVER ROUTE. This didn’t translate on the track. He was kept handy, but tapped for speed on the home bend and was always on the limit chasing the leaders, eventually finishing fourth. He has the look of a racehorse, but may just need a little time.
BROADWAY STAR finished second at Hexham first time out, and stepped up on that, forging clear in the final furlong.
CLASSIC MOON ran two decent races in big field Irish bumpers, and confirmed promise in a creditable second.
ROOM AT THE TOP is possibly getting the hang of racing, staying on for third.
Friday, 23 November 2007
KELSO - November 23
Going: Good To Soft (Good in places)
There was an inspection following overnight frost, but the meeting was never in danger. The course soaked up the previous week’s rain, with the going recorded just on the soft side of good.
A decent sized Friday afternoon crowd on a chilly but bright autumn afternoon at the delightful Borders track with a decent competitive card and some tight finishes.
12.10 2m 110yds Novice Hurdle (2nd last omitted- flight damaged)
No pace on early here, as they ambled from the start and Chief Scout led them for much of the way in a soft lead. The runners really only got busy from three out, at which point AKAREM, a decent performer on the level, put his superior flat pace to good use. He had been off for a season, but looked fit enough for this comeback and won with any amount in hand.
I’M DELILAH came down at the last when looking booked for second. Provided she gets over the mishap this performance suggested she’s a hurdles winner in waiting.
TOSHI was third at the last but fell over Tony Dobbin as the latter rolled clear of I’m Delilah. It wasn’t a bad run and he has some ability. Could be that a novice handicap might be worth looking at with this one.
CHIEF SCOUT looked finished by the last, but raised his effort enough to battle back for second. A reasonable performance though will need to be aimed at easier contests.
SUPERIOR STAR was not disgraced in third on his hurdles debut. Rider Padge Whelan reported that ‘they kicked the top off’ suggesting the going report was pretty much spot on.
COMPROMIZNOTENSION finished fourth. He looked rather stiff in his hind quarters walking round the paddock. I'd want proof of his hurdling and well-being before committing money on this one.
The rest were either struggling down the back straight or left for dead once the pace increased three out.
12.40 2m 6f 110yds Novice Handicap Chase (0-125)
The winner, SCRIBANO EILE, had a nice collection of letters in front of his name, but had hinted at ability and proved it here. His jumping varied between excellent and a bit fiddly, and can possibly be improved, but he made all to win this.
CANTGETON might be the significant one coming out of this race. He jumped really well, got to within a length at the last, but couldn’t find as much as the winner. The jockey and trainer were in agreement that 2m 4f would be a better trip. Bear in mind that he was giving an unexposed winner 17lbs here.
I felt RUSSIAN SKY was one to oppose last season, but I can’t criticise his attitude in recent times. He was up there until jumping right and losing ground over the third last and second last, possibly feeling the pinch. However, he stayed on pluckily on the run-in. This 0-125 contest was possibly a bit above his normal level, and since he was on 10st 2lbs here there a bit of scope for a drop in class, programme book permitting.
LORD COLLINGWOOD went well enough till weakening after 2 out, SILENT BAY having cried enough after 3 out. BALLYHALE was never in contention, and chasing debutant LOADED DICE needs to sharpen his jumping.
1.15 2m 1f Beginners’ Chase
Odds-on favourite DARK CORNER blundered at the first, then made a right pig’s ear of the second which saw him depart. Disappointing since his Perth debut was promising.
MONSIEUR, who was headstrong on the way to the start, was restrained but soon pulled his way into the lead. He jumped well up the straight but then walked through the open ditch after the stand, and Barry Keniry will probably be thankful to walk away from a hard fall.
WATER TAXI has run some decent chases in similar company, and was finally rewarded with a victory, holding off the tenacious OPEN DE L’ISLE. Both jumped well enough, but with only three finishers the form may be of questionable value.
I liked SMART STREET as a novice hurdler last season, but he faded behind the front two here. An important point should be made however, that he was sent to the front in his hurdles and has been held up over fences. I wonder if forcing the pace might be the key.
HIGH COMMISSION had gone well enough on chasing debut, and was still in touch when keeling over 3 out.
1.50 2m 2f Handicap Hurdle 0-125
Only the front four ever got competitive in this event.
PALOMAR looked dropped in on Bangor form and proved that to be the case as he won without an awful lot of fuss. Palomar was equipped with a cross noseband and ear plugs, perhaps suggesting a wayward nature which may now be under control. He moved up smoothly down the back, led at the last and then idled in front and had to be encouraged, but had any amount in hand. His jumping was untidy at times, so there may still be scope for improvement.
BUFFY led until headed at the last by Palomar, and was pipped for second close home. Nevertheless, this was a good run, she’s unlikely to be raised much for it and this augurs well for future events.
SEEYAAJ looks well handicapped over hurdles. He moved up with the leader two out, got briefly outpaced going to the last, but then stayed on again to take second. He’s in good heart and as a dual purpose performer there must surely be a race for him soon.
SHARES moved into contention 2 out but found no more after, but there was no real challenge from the other five in the field.
2.25 3m 1f 0-120 Handicap Chase
STRONG RESOLVE has had a pretty decent career including some sparkling form in 04/05. He proved he’s no back number in this event, and lived up to his name to hold on from No Picnic. Strong Resolve led or was prominent all the way, but looked second best turning for home. However, he dug deep on the run-in to get up close home.
NO PICNIC lost nothing in defeat and looks likely to pick up a staying chase soon.
BARON MONTY made progress two out, but never got to the first two. This was his seasonal debut, there looked a little to work on, and he should progress with this run under his belt.
MISS MATTIE ROSS was well back in fourth and was never better placed.
INNISFREE, even allowing for being hampered 6 out, struggled from a long way out and pulled up 3 out.
MORE LIKELY won nicely here in January, but recent runs have been below par. She didn’t jump particularly cleanly and was being niggled at before falling six out.
CRACKADEE started slowly, was never in touch and pulled up after a circuit.
3.00 2m 6f 110yds Handicap Hurdle 0-115
A few were in with a chance three out, but CHEF DE COUR was cruising between the last two and went away from Tartan Snow on the run-in. The winner has had a couple of spells off, but now looks in good heart and can move up in class.
TARTAN SNOW did nothing wrong in defeat and is worth noting in similar events on the Northern circuit.
MISS SHAKIRA(3rd) and BEAU SADDLER(4th) seemed to be struggling two out, but stayed on through tiring rivals, admittedly a fair distance behind the first two. On this evidence both appear to be handicapped up to their form.
NAPALM went well until hitting two out and then went out like a light. SOUBRIQUET was another in contention until falling away from 2 out, and
LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL hurdled well and led to three out, at which point the gauge read ‘empty’.
OVERSERVED never got into contention, eventually plodding into 5th. Lightly weighted BUCKSTRUTHER was prominent early, but faded on the final circuit.
3.35 3m 4f Handicap Chase 0-110
The start was delayed here to let the sun go behind the hills, as it would have been straight in the runners’ eyes jumping the first in the straight.
TRISONS STAR was last seen out when never going in the Highland National. He led until the last here but faded on the run-in. His wins were at shorter distances and he’s yet to prove he stays this far.
PETITE MARGOT stayed on from 3 out and found pace on the flat get in front close home. RYEMINSTER ran another decent race and, though 2nd for the third time in a row, deserves credit for the effort.
HIDDEN BOUNTY stayed on, wandered about a bit on the run-in and couldn’t quite go with the first two. Better than his last effort and perhaps a sign that he’s finding his old form. Hidden Bounty is getting on in years, but no back number.
OLD NODDY raced prominently, but was weakening when falling heavily at the last.
SPORTS EXPRESS couldn’t go with the leaders from four out. HIGH FIVE was 9lbs out of the handicap, and it showed as he was never in touch, overtaking only the slowcoach BLACK SMOKE (pulled up) and the rapidly weakening MARINGO(last of the 7 to finish).
There was an inspection following overnight frost, but the meeting was never in danger. The course soaked up the previous week’s rain, with the going recorded just on the soft side of good.
A decent sized Friday afternoon crowd on a chilly but bright autumn afternoon at the delightful Borders track with a decent competitive card and some tight finishes.
12.10 2m 110yds Novice Hurdle (2nd last omitted- flight damaged)
No pace on early here, as they ambled from the start and Chief Scout led them for much of the way in a soft lead. The runners really only got busy from three out, at which point AKAREM, a decent performer on the level, put his superior flat pace to good use. He had been off for a season, but looked fit enough for this comeback and won with any amount in hand.
I’M DELILAH came down at the last when looking booked for second. Provided she gets over the mishap this performance suggested she’s a hurdles winner in waiting.
TOSHI was third at the last but fell over Tony Dobbin as the latter rolled clear of I’m Delilah. It wasn’t a bad run and he has some ability. Could be that a novice handicap might be worth looking at with this one.
CHIEF SCOUT looked finished by the last, but raised his effort enough to battle back for second. A reasonable performance though will need to be aimed at easier contests.
SUPERIOR STAR was not disgraced in third on his hurdles debut. Rider Padge Whelan reported that ‘they kicked the top off’ suggesting the going report was pretty much spot on.
COMPROMIZNOTENSION finished fourth. He looked rather stiff in his hind quarters walking round the paddock. I'd want proof of his hurdling and well-being before committing money on this one.
The rest were either struggling down the back straight or left for dead once the pace increased three out.
12.40 2m 6f 110yds Novice Handicap Chase (0-125)
The winner, SCRIBANO EILE, had a nice collection of letters in front of his name, but had hinted at ability and proved it here. His jumping varied between excellent and a bit fiddly, and can possibly be improved, but he made all to win this.
CANTGETON might be the significant one coming out of this race. He jumped really well, got to within a length at the last, but couldn’t find as much as the winner. The jockey and trainer were in agreement that 2m 4f would be a better trip. Bear in mind that he was giving an unexposed winner 17lbs here.
I felt RUSSIAN SKY was one to oppose last season, but I can’t criticise his attitude in recent times. He was up there until jumping right and losing ground over the third last and second last, possibly feeling the pinch. However, he stayed on pluckily on the run-in. This 0-125 contest was possibly a bit above his normal level, and since he was on 10st 2lbs here there a bit of scope for a drop in class, programme book permitting.
LORD COLLINGWOOD went well enough till weakening after 2 out, SILENT BAY having cried enough after 3 out. BALLYHALE was never in contention, and chasing debutant LOADED DICE needs to sharpen his jumping.
1.15 2m 1f Beginners’ Chase
Odds-on favourite DARK CORNER blundered at the first, then made a right pig’s ear of the second which saw him depart. Disappointing since his Perth debut was promising.
MONSIEUR, who was headstrong on the way to the start, was restrained but soon pulled his way into the lead. He jumped well up the straight but then walked through the open ditch after the stand, and Barry Keniry will probably be thankful to walk away from a hard fall.
WATER TAXI has run some decent chases in similar company, and was finally rewarded with a victory, holding off the tenacious OPEN DE L’ISLE. Both jumped well enough, but with only three finishers the form may be of questionable value.
I liked SMART STREET as a novice hurdler last season, but he faded behind the front two here. An important point should be made however, that he was sent to the front in his hurdles and has been held up over fences. I wonder if forcing the pace might be the key.
HIGH COMMISSION had gone well enough on chasing debut, and was still in touch when keeling over 3 out.
1.50 2m 2f Handicap Hurdle 0-125
Only the front four ever got competitive in this event.
PALOMAR looked dropped in on Bangor form and proved that to be the case as he won without an awful lot of fuss. Palomar was equipped with a cross noseband and ear plugs, perhaps suggesting a wayward nature which may now be under control. He moved up smoothly down the back, led at the last and then idled in front and had to be encouraged, but had any amount in hand. His jumping was untidy at times, so there may still be scope for improvement.
BUFFY led until headed at the last by Palomar, and was pipped for second close home. Nevertheless, this was a good run, she’s unlikely to be raised much for it and this augurs well for future events.
SEEYAAJ looks well handicapped over hurdles. He moved up with the leader two out, got briefly outpaced going to the last, but then stayed on again to take second. He’s in good heart and as a dual purpose performer there must surely be a race for him soon.
SHARES moved into contention 2 out but found no more after, but there was no real challenge from the other five in the field.
2.25 3m 1f 0-120 Handicap Chase
STRONG RESOLVE has had a pretty decent career including some sparkling form in 04/05. He proved he’s no back number in this event, and lived up to his name to hold on from No Picnic. Strong Resolve led or was prominent all the way, but looked second best turning for home. However, he dug deep on the run-in to get up close home.
NO PICNIC lost nothing in defeat and looks likely to pick up a staying chase soon.
BARON MONTY made progress two out, but never got to the first two. This was his seasonal debut, there looked a little to work on, and he should progress with this run under his belt.
MISS MATTIE ROSS was well back in fourth and was never better placed.
INNISFREE, even allowing for being hampered 6 out, struggled from a long way out and pulled up 3 out.
MORE LIKELY won nicely here in January, but recent runs have been below par. She didn’t jump particularly cleanly and was being niggled at before falling six out.
CRACKADEE started slowly, was never in touch and pulled up after a circuit.
3.00 2m 6f 110yds Handicap Hurdle 0-115
A few were in with a chance three out, but CHEF DE COUR was cruising between the last two and went away from Tartan Snow on the run-in. The winner has had a couple of spells off, but now looks in good heart and can move up in class.
TARTAN SNOW did nothing wrong in defeat and is worth noting in similar events on the Northern circuit.
MISS SHAKIRA(3rd) and BEAU SADDLER(4th) seemed to be struggling two out, but stayed on through tiring rivals, admittedly a fair distance behind the first two. On this evidence both appear to be handicapped up to their form.
NAPALM went well until hitting two out and then went out like a light. SOUBRIQUET was another in contention until falling away from 2 out, and
LOCKSTOCKANDBARREL hurdled well and led to three out, at which point the gauge read ‘empty’.
OVERSERVED never got into contention, eventually plodding into 5th. Lightly weighted BUCKSTRUTHER was prominent early, but faded on the final circuit.
3.35 3m 4f Handicap Chase 0-110
The start was delayed here to let the sun go behind the hills, as it would have been straight in the runners’ eyes jumping the first in the straight.
TRISONS STAR was last seen out when never going in the Highland National. He led until the last here but faded on the run-in. His wins were at shorter distances and he’s yet to prove he stays this far.
PETITE MARGOT stayed on from 3 out and found pace on the flat get in front close home. RYEMINSTER ran another decent race and, though 2nd for the third time in a row, deserves credit for the effort.
HIDDEN BOUNTY stayed on, wandered about a bit on the run-in and couldn’t quite go with the first two. Better than his last effort and perhaps a sign that he’s finding his old form. Hidden Bounty is getting on in years, but no back number.
OLD NODDY raced prominently, but was weakening when falling heavily at the last.
SPORTS EXPRESS couldn’t go with the leaders from four out. HIGH FIVE was 9lbs out of the handicap, and it showed as he was never in touch, overtaking only the slowcoach BLACK SMOKE (pulled up) and the rapidly weakening MARINGO(last of the 7 to finish).
Wednesday, 21 November 2007
November Update
Apologies for not updating a bit more regularly recently, but I've been very busy with work and just haven't had a chance to do racing justice.
A few observations on autumn jump racing in Scotland and the North recently.
SNOW'S RIDE has progressed nicely on the fast ground and after his fortunate 'win' at Kelso, picked up a race at Sedgefield. The ground is turning against him now, but one worth bearing in mind when the ground dries out in the spring. If kept on the go he may just find an opportunity at Musselburgh, a course which soaks up the rain better than most.
SCHINKEN OTTO returned to form with a win at the same Sedgefield meeting, but he's another one who is favoured by fast ground.
JOHN DILLON won the juvenile hurdle and should win again, but STROBE was well clear of the rest in second, and did enough to suggest he can pick up a hurdle or two.
I rather wrote off LOST IN NORMANDY last season, but he's hit some form and won well at Newcastle. He'll no doubt be put up quite a way in the handicap, but stays and jumps well, seems to handle cut as well as fast ground and might remain competitive up to 0-110 class.
In a competitive bumper, Nicky Richards' NOBLE ALAN won very smoothly and should take another race or two. WATERLOO ROAD was well held by the winner, but held off the rest. KINGSBEN comes from a stable with a useful record in these events, made decent late progress and is one to watch out for next time.
GLINGERBANK was a nice winner of a novices' chase at Kelso on Nov 10. Should progress from this, and a step up from 2m 1f will help.
The weather has gone downhill a bit this week, and it's forecast chilly for Friday, but I should be at Kelso to report on what looks a competitive card.
A few observations on autumn jump racing in Scotland and the North recently.
SNOW'S RIDE has progressed nicely on the fast ground and after his fortunate 'win' at Kelso, picked up a race at Sedgefield. The ground is turning against him now, but one worth bearing in mind when the ground dries out in the spring. If kept on the go he may just find an opportunity at Musselburgh, a course which soaks up the rain better than most.
SCHINKEN OTTO returned to form with a win at the same Sedgefield meeting, but he's another one who is favoured by fast ground.
JOHN DILLON won the juvenile hurdle and should win again, but STROBE was well clear of the rest in second, and did enough to suggest he can pick up a hurdle or two.
I rather wrote off LOST IN NORMANDY last season, but he's hit some form and won well at Newcastle. He'll no doubt be put up quite a way in the handicap, but stays and jumps well, seems to handle cut as well as fast ground and might remain competitive up to 0-110 class.
In a competitive bumper, Nicky Richards' NOBLE ALAN won very smoothly and should take another race or two. WATERLOO ROAD was well held by the winner, but held off the rest. KINGSBEN comes from a stable with a useful record in these events, made decent late progress and is one to watch out for next time.
GLINGERBANK was a nice winner of a novices' chase at Kelso on Nov 10. Should progress from this, and a step up from 2m 1f will help.
The weather has gone downhill a bit this week, and it's forecast chilly for Friday, but I should be at Kelso to report on what looks a competitive card.
Tuesday, 23 October 2007
KELSO - Saturday October 20
Abbreviated notes on this meeting since I flew in from holiday in Portugal on the Saturday afternoon, and my requests for the pilot to circle Kelso weren't heeded! Notes made from watching ATR replays.
Elsewhere, I've been trumpet blowing for MIDDLETON DENE since the same Kelso meeting last October, and this one recorded a win at Cheltenham on Friday, decently priced at 11/2.
LEG SPINNER won a hurdle at Perth earlier in the year, and capped the season off with a 14/1 victory in the Cesarewitch. Once again fine placing by his trainer Tony Martin.
2.10 2m 0.5f Handicap Hurdle
In-form BORDER TALE won this nicely, coming clear on the run-in from an 8 horse bunch led by TIGER KING.
2.45 2m 6.5f Nov Hurdle
FRANKIE FIGG won from the front at Hexham last time, and once gain set off at a decent lick. The field came back to him 4 out, but he had a fair bit in hand once push came to shove. MR WOODS made a decent hurdling debut and will surely win a minor novice event. THE SALTIRE TIGER was third but is well exposed at this level.
3.20 3m 1f Handicap Chase
This didn't look a great event. INNISFREE led but ran out of steam and is quite high in the handicap going into the winter. SPORTS EXPRESS plugged on well enough for victory, MISTER MAGNUM stayed on through tiring rivals for second and well exposed veteran HARLOV was third.
3.50 2m 6.5f C.J. Handicap Hurdle
Race was rendered a farce by confusion over safety flag wavers around 3 out. Some missed the flight, but the ones which jumped it were 'in the right'. HUMOUROUS 'won' the race but was disqualified. Even allowing for missing the hurdle he had a fair bit in hand, but on previous indications he'll be handicapped as if he won. SNOW'S RIDE has hit decent form and stayed on to finish second and be awarded the race. COLLEGE CITY ran an honest enough race.
4.20 2m 1f Beginners' Chase
An event won by the useful Ungaro last year. There didn't look to be anything as good in this renewal. MEDISON did jump nicely in front, won well and should be placed to win again. OR DE GRUGY ran respectably in second. SMART STREET tended to make the pace over hurdles, but didn't see the front here. He stayed on without being over-pressed by his jockey, giving the impression there's more to come over fences.
4.55 2m 0.5f Maiden Hurdle
JASS won the NH Flat race on this card last season, a race from which the second, third and fourth all progressed well. It's taken Jass a few goes over hurdles, but these were seen off well enough. Not sure the race is upto an awful lot though.
5.30 2m 0.5f 3yo NH Flat
This race was for older horses last year, but this was a very interesting event for juveniles. ISAAC NEWTON led into the straight but ran out of steam. THis was competitive and he'll find easier races. AUTUMN HARVEST went clear rather impressively. Following were MOON PHASE, SOUTHERNESS and DESERT VISION, all from decent yards and capable of winning.
Elsewhere, I've been trumpet blowing for MIDDLETON DENE since the same Kelso meeting last October, and this one recorded a win at Cheltenham on Friday, decently priced at 11/2.
LEG SPINNER won a hurdle at Perth earlier in the year, and capped the season off with a 14/1 victory in the Cesarewitch. Once again fine placing by his trainer Tony Martin.
2.10 2m 0.5f Handicap Hurdle
In-form BORDER TALE won this nicely, coming clear on the run-in from an 8 horse bunch led by TIGER KING.
2.45 2m 6.5f Nov Hurdle
FRANKIE FIGG won from the front at Hexham last time, and once gain set off at a decent lick. The field came back to him 4 out, but he had a fair bit in hand once push came to shove. MR WOODS made a decent hurdling debut and will surely win a minor novice event. THE SALTIRE TIGER was third but is well exposed at this level.
3.20 3m 1f Handicap Chase
This didn't look a great event. INNISFREE led but ran out of steam and is quite high in the handicap going into the winter. SPORTS EXPRESS plugged on well enough for victory, MISTER MAGNUM stayed on through tiring rivals for second and well exposed veteran HARLOV was third.
3.50 2m 6.5f C.J. Handicap Hurdle
Race was rendered a farce by confusion over safety flag wavers around 3 out. Some missed the flight, but the ones which jumped it were 'in the right'. HUMOUROUS 'won' the race but was disqualified. Even allowing for missing the hurdle he had a fair bit in hand, but on previous indications he'll be handicapped as if he won. SNOW'S RIDE has hit decent form and stayed on to finish second and be awarded the race. COLLEGE CITY ran an honest enough race.
4.20 2m 1f Beginners' Chase
An event won by the useful Ungaro last year. There didn't look to be anything as good in this renewal. MEDISON did jump nicely in front, won well and should be placed to win again. OR DE GRUGY ran respectably in second. SMART STREET tended to make the pace over hurdles, but didn't see the front here. He stayed on without being over-pressed by his jockey, giving the impression there's more to come over fences.
4.55 2m 0.5f Maiden Hurdle
JASS won the NH Flat race on this card last season, a race from which the second, third and fourth all progressed well. It's taken Jass a few goes over hurdles, but these were seen off well enough. Not sure the race is upto an awful lot though.
5.30 2m 0.5f 3yo NH Flat
This race was for older horses last year, but this was a very interesting event for juveniles. ISAAC NEWTON led into the straight but ran out of steam. THis was competitive and he'll find easier races. AUTUMN HARVEST went clear rather impressively. Following were MOON PHASE, SOUTHERNESS and DESERT VISION, all from decent yards and capable of winning.
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