Let The Train Take The Strain

Another beautiful day breaks over Englands green and pleasant land and we have some decent racing to get involved with down a Goodwood today.
The big question of the day for me is can I give Bullet Train another chance. The Sadlers Wells colt lines up in the 3.45 and if returning to the form that saw him win the Lingfield Derby Trial he should be good enough to take this Listed contest but he has been disappointing since. There has been a little bit of money for him this morning and I will be having a small investment myself.
Sea Change was an easy winner at Lingfield last week and can follow up in the 4.20 despite the 6lb penalty.
The two two-year-old heats are best watched for possible future pointers with Sud Pacifique being odds-on in the 2.35. The three other handicaps on card are best left alone now that the promising Dhaamer has been withdrawn from the 4.55 as a case can be made for four or five in each heat.
Be lucky

Who's The Daddy VII

My little Who’s The Daddy feature hasn’t been seen since early August but the exploits of the filly Hooray in winning the totepool Sirenia Stakes at Kempton earlier in the month in a two-year-old track record time, following her win in the Jaguar Cars Lowther Stakes at York in August, had me reaching for the pedigree records to take a look at her sire Invincible Spirit.
Standing at the Irish National Stud the stallion has sired 17 Group winners and 23 Listed winners to date with Group One winners Fleeting Spirit, Lawman and Vale Of York being arguably his best progeny. He has a good record with two-year-olds often training on well, Allied powers and Glamorous Spirit being two older winners this season. As well as the filly Hooray Invincible Spirit of course also has the much touted two-year-old colt Zebedee showcasing his talents as a sire in the juvenile ranks.

A Quiet Start

A quiet start to the week with not very much to get the teeth in to unless of course you happen to know a friendly bookmaker with a direct line to the Pakistan dressing room - how crazy is this tour becoming?
Some half decent stuff and Goodwood midweek and of course we have Ascot on Friday so I will be keeping the powder dry for a couple of days.

Dubai Duty Free Day

Another lovely morning dawns over Girdy Towers with some terrific racing to look forward to.
I am leaving the Ayr Gold Cup alone as I ca make a case for about ten of the beasts lining up. At Newbury we have the Dubai Duty Free Stakes and I think Thin Red Line has a big each way chance and is weighted to reverse the Doncaster form with Senate.
Up at Ayr I do like the look of one and it is Barefoot Lady in the Firth Of Clyde Stakes. I liked the way she went about her business at Doncaster last time and the Fahey - Hanagan combination are on fire at the moment.
Be lucky

Friday Review

Always traveling well Delegator made the perfect return to these shores by taking the victory in the Dubai Duty Free Cup at Newbury. Awzaan and Sir Gerry made a battle of it but in the hands of Ted Durcan the Godolphin colt prevailed at 3-1.
Rainbow Peak followed Dangerous Midge home in the Dubai Duty Free Arc Trial to finish second but truth be told never looked like troubling the winner who had kicked for home a the furlong pole and won comfortably.
Up at Ayr I had another second when Krypton Factor was beaten a neck in a tight finish with Arctic Feeling, with Paul Hanagan inspired in the saddle aboard the winner.
A winning day is a winning day - time for a pint

Newbury, Newmarket & Ayr

Beautiful morning and some nice racing at Newbury, Newmarket and Ayr this afternoon. In the Dubai Duty Free Arc Trial, Group Three, Rainbow Peak has a good chance to strengthen his reputation. The gelding is in many ways unlucky not to be unbeaten in all his six starts to date and he gets a handy 7lb from Campanologist with the Godolphin colt having the burden a Group One penalty for his exploits in Germany. A bet on Rainbow Peak with a little saver forecast will be the way to go.
In the Dubai Duty Free Cup, Listed, we have one of the leading three-year-olds of 2009 the returning Delegator. In chasing home the likes of Sea The Stars and Mastercraftsman the Godolphin colt was second in last years 2000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes. The 314 day absence is a bit of a worry but the 3-1 on offer with Ladbrokes this morning is a big price if the boys in blue have him anywhere near peak fitness for his seasonal reappearance.
Up at Ayr we have the Zenith Ltd Refurbishment Specialists Harry Rosebery Stakes (For The South Ayrshire Cup), Listed – don’t you just love these catchy race names. It is a tricky little heat for two-year-olds but Sir Mark Prescott appears to have been working his magic again with Krypton Factor and I wouldn’t bet against Seb Sanders steering the gelding home for his fourth consecutive victory.
Elsewhere it is a day to have the notebook on hand at Newmarket with eight two-year-old races to take a look at.
Be lucky

Ayr Gold Cup Draw

The draw for The Ayr Gold Cup has been made with most of the trainers opting for high draws where possible. Henry Candy and Dandy Nicholls certainly seem to think high is best with Candy choosing stall 22 for his charge Signor Peltro and Nicholls having chosen high for all his five entrants the lowest being Redford in stall 17.
Richard Fahey is quoted as having said "I was thinking before I wanted to be low really, but everybody seemed to want to go high. It will be interesting to see what happens but there is not a lot in it."
All the major ante-post fancies have stood their ground with current jolly Poets Place coming out of stall 12, Barney McGrew and Kaldoun Kingdom will carry joint-top weight.

The Thursday Titter

Paddy and his two friends are talking at work. His first friend says: "I think my wife is having an affair with the electrician. The other day I came home and found wire cutters under our bed and they weren't mine."
His second friend says: "I think my wife is having an affair with the plumber the other day I found a wrench under the bed and it wasn't mine."
Paddy says: "I think my wife is having an affair with a horse."
Both his friends look at him with utter disbelief.
"No I'm serious. The other day I came home and found a jockey under our bed."
As you may of gathered from the little joke above it is a fairly quiet day on the racing front with nothing much to get the teeth into but punters have been busy looking at the markets for both the Cambridgeshire on Saturday October 2nd and the Cesarewitch on Champions Day, October 16th, both of course at Newmarket.
Elsewhere Prince Khalid Abdullah has things to consider with the Sir Michael Stoute trained Workforce having a reported workout but as yet no decision having been made on where next for the Derby winner. Henry Cecil's exciting unbeaten juvenile Frankel, under the ownership of the Prince also, appears to have his immediate future more set out with the Juddmonte Royal Lodge and then the Racing Post Trophy being the most likely end to the colts two-year-old campaign.

Wednesday News Round-Up

Pentinent kept on gamely in the Fortune Stakes, Listed, at Sandown this afternoon in the manor of a game horse to add to his Lincoln win back in March. He looks one to follow as the ground softens in the autumn at around a mile.
Betting on the Cesarewitch was thrown into confusion with the withdrawal of ante-post favourite Motrice today, Admiral Barry is now the jolly priced at anything between 8-1 (Ladbrokes) and 12-1 (Paddy Power) at the time of writing.
Looking forward to the Ayr Gold Cup on Saturday, where it is reported that the ground is softening a little, Ted Durcan takes the ride on Hawkeyethenoo for Jim Goldie and connections of Genki are hoping for a good showing on what is a weight effectively 8lb lower than the colt will be running off on the future.
It is also reported that Ed Dunlop is keeping the options open for the nice two-year-old Native Khan. Winner of the Solario Stakes at Sandown his next race could be one of the Royal Lodge, the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere or the Dewhurst according to reports. Apparently the trainer would not consider running the colt should it come up soft.

Weekend Catch Up, Blenheim and Polocrosse

Not a bad day Friday with a couple of winners in Zebedee and White Moonstone with Jedi getting ever closer finishing this time in second place – still convinced he will pick up a handicap at some point this season. Unfortunately I got the two St. Legers wrong with Rewilding and Kite Wood finishing down the field at Doncaster and the Curragh respectively.
As I mentioned on Friday I have spent the weekend in Woodstock, Oxforshire at the Blenheim Horse Trials and was treated to some top class Cross Country and Show Jumping, the overall winner being William Fox-Pitt on Parklane Hawk . Whilst I was there I was introduced to Polocrosse, a wonderful sport with some breathtaking riding skills on show. Deatils can be found on the United Kingdom Polocrosse Association website - it is well worth a watch should you ever get the chance to catch a chukka or two.

Leger Festival - Day Three & Four/Blenheim Horse Trials

Another in and out day at Doncaster but I broke level with Wootton Bassett winning at 2-1. The bay had to battle to continue his unbeaten run having briefly been headed inside the final furlong; he is looking like a very good horse.
Audacious so nearly stole the each way money taking it up two out, but a bold bid ended in defeat as the colt ran out of steam and finished just out of the money in fourth. Dyna Waltz appeared to be going well for a long way but weakened quickly two furlongs out and ultimately finished last.
And so to Friday and a bit of a dilemma. I have tipped Meow, Zebedee and Dinkum Diamond on this site this season and all three line up in the Flying Childers Stakes, Group Two, 1.35. My preference is for Zebedee as the colt is in fine form and has won on good-soft, a small saver will be invested on Meow as the weight allowance for fillys could prove significant. Dinkum Diamond has been tried at the top level and the slight drop in class could see the Diamond shine and Iwouldn't put anyone off backing him each way.
One of my favourite handicapers Jedi takes his place in the 2.05. The Stoute trained gelding has been running well this year and I tipped him at Chester last time out where he finished third. He will win a handicap like this at some stage this year and I am sticking with him today.
White Moonstone puts her unbeaten run on the line in the May Hill Stakes, 3.15. She will be a short price but I strongly believe Godolphin have themselves a nice little filly on their hands.
As for the rest of the weekend the money is already down for Rewilding in the St. Leger on Saturday and I will probably give Kite Wood one last chance in the Irish St. Leger over in the Emerald Isle.
I am at the Blenheim Horse Trials over the weekend enjoying the Show Jumping, Cross Country and hospitality of several of the local watering holes in Woodstock - I am always impressed with the skills of the riders and the bravery and trust displayed by the horses as they tackle the varied challenges of the Cross Country course. As someone once said to me as a younger (and much lighter) lad learning to ride up at Havering-Atte-Bower stables - 'Riding is the art of keeping a horse between you and the ground.'
Be lucky

Leger Festival - Day Two

Mediocre start to the Leger meeting yesterday. Having ploughed a lone furrow on the stands side for the first three furlongs Dubawi Gold stayed on at the same pace inside final furlong and was beat about a length and a half. To my eye it looks as if a little further might be the answer. Enabling duly obliged at odds-on over at Epsom taking it up at the three furlong marker and kicking clear at the two pole to win by a comfortable three and a quarter lengths. Odds-on shots aren’t going to make you a rich man though so here’s hoping I can find a better priced beast this afternoon.
At Doncaster today Audacious has an each way chance in the first race running for the Queen. The Motivator colt showed some promise on his debut though he did run green for most of the race and the slightly longer trip might help.
Unbeaten Wootton Bassett lines up in the 3.10 and should be able to continue his unbeaten run. He will be a short enough price for a sprint but had three of these behind at York and is the one they have to beat.
I spoke of my admiration for Dyna Waltz back in May following the Lingfield Oaks Trials and of my disappointment at her injury. I have been waiting for her return since so she must be the bet in the 3.45. Hopefully the Gosden trained filly will get the extra distance and she is still open to improvement if all is well following her four months on the sidelines.
Be lucky

Leger Festival - Day One

Bit of a damp and dreary day for the start of the Leger Festival, hopefully I can find a winner or two and lift the mood.
I tipped Dubawi Gold in the Woodcote Stakes on Derby day where he finished a credible second. He has looked a little out of his depth the last twice in Group Two company, visibly eased by Fallon when his chance had gone over one furling out at York in August. The drop in class for the Conditions Stakes at Doncaster in the 2.35 could see the Dubawi colt back to winning ways today.
Over at Epsom Ryan Moore has a couple of rides and I like the look of Enabling in the 2.45. The High Chaparral colt has posted three promising efforts so far, improving each time, and he should be able to register his first win today.
Be lucky

Weekend Of Near Misses

Close but no cigar at the weekend. So very nearly got the O’Brien treble home Lillie Langtry having got it off to a nice start and even though Cape Blanco beat Rip van Winkle it would have still counted but Starspangledbanner let me down; I can’t really complain about that horse as it owes me nothing.
Elsewhere I had a bit of seconditus with Secrecy and Measuring Time both finding one too good for them in their respective races.
Bit of a slow start to the week building to the big meetings at Doncaster and the Curragh at the weekend where it looks as though there should be a couple of decent bets to be had.

Secretly Waiting On Time

I talked of the O'Brien treble on Thursday and the bet is on, Lillie Langtry, Starspangledbanner and Rip Van Winkle. I have had the small saver on Music Show.
I have also had a little double of Secrecy in the 2.00 at Haydock, I am not convinced Awzaan is the same horse we saw last year and the Godolphin beast looks to be improving, and Measuring Time in the 4.45 at the same track. The Hannon two-year-old went close in a Group Three last time and should be capable of winning this Listed contest.
Be lucky

Fearless At Lingfield

Bit of a late note today. I have been looking and looking and I can't get away from Fear Nothing in the 2.50 Lingfield. The chestnut gelding has proved expensive to follow and got turned over at odds-on last time but surely he has nothing to fear today.
Be lucky

O'Brien Saturday Group One Treble

I don't usually get involved with bookmaker 'specials' but I have taken a bit of the 14-1 treble Stan James are offering that Aidan O'Brien makes a clean sweep of all three of Saturday's Group One races.
The trainer has 7-4 shot Starspangledbanner in the Betfred Sprint Cup at Haydock and odds-on jolly Rip Van Winkle as well as Cape Blanco and Beethoven in the Tattersalls Millions Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown. The bet kicks off with the weakest link of the the three at 2.40 with Lillie Langtry taking on Music Show in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. I personally believe the two are very closely matched and a little saver on Music Show, who I have been following all season, shall be invested just in case.
Here's hoping Irish eyes are smiling come Saturday evening.
Be lucky

Sprinting, Dieting And A Bit Of An Improver!

Scanning the news today a couple of stories caught the eye.
First of all Golden Jubilee Stakes and July Cup winner Starspangledbanner is expected to line up at Haydock on Saturday for the Betfred Sprint Cup, a final decision on his participation will be made early today (Thursday).
It has been announced that the BHA are looking to implement a rule change limiting overweight to 3lb – that’s my chance of a spare ride ruined then!
The new rule will apply to Flat and Jump racing, and to professional and amateur jockeys alike and will finally bring Britain into line with most of the major racing nations across the globe. Under the new rules a jockey who is more than 3lb overweight at the time of weighing out will be replaced by a rider of similar status. A final decision on when to implement the ruling is expected later this month, with October 1st 2010 looking to be the most likely starting date. Best I get down the sauna.
I also noted that the massive gamble on Am I Blue winner of the Wyvern Ices Handicap Hurdle on Wednesday at Hereford is to be investigated. The beast was backed from 25-1 down to 5-1 during the day and duly romped home by nineteen lengths! It does appear to be quite an improvement in form with the filly having never won in sixteen previous starts and having finished last of twelve beat eighty-eight lengths last time out – the step up to two and a half miles certainly seems to have done the trick.

Mutayaser Money

The money has come for Mutayaser in the 2.10 at Leicester today.
The Stoute trained colt has a middle distance pedigree, by Shamardal (Prix du Jockey Club and St James’s Palace Stakes winner) out of Borgia (ran credibly in the Arc twice as well as the Breeders Cup Filly and Mare Turf) and it could pay to take the hint and back him to make a winning debut - get on quick as the price is going down faster than a Romford birds G-string on a Friday night ;o)
Be lucky

Time For Bed

Regressing back to childhood today and the old Magic Roundabout (what the feck was that all about?) and backing Zebedee in the 3.55 at Newmarket.
Over at Goodwood the much talked about Date With Destiny lines up in the 3.40 and the filly is fancied to take this on the way to bigger things.
Be lucky

Taking A Dip At Bath

It will be very difficult to find winners at Newmarket today with so many unexposed two and three-year-olds and the racing there is best watched rather than punted on.
Over at Bath I like the look of Minikin. The Montjeu filly won well at Folkstone and with further improvement to be expected she is fancied to win the Rajpoot.com Handicap at 5.45 despite having to shoulder a penalty.
Be lucky

Wash-out, Non-runner, King and VIP's Only

Bit of a wash-out today, literally down at Goodwood where by all accounts the jockeys would need a rubber ring and the meeting is cancelled.
I was thinking of having a little investment on Daniel Thomas at Lingfield but the gelding has been declared a non-runner.
Elsewhere Richard Hannon appears to be plotting a trip to France for King Torus, 20-1 for next years 2,000 Guineas, with the Group 1 Prix Jean Luc Lagadere at Longchamp on Arc weekend likely to be the colts target rather than the Racing Post Trophy and the Dewhurst Stakes.
Victor Chandler is shutting their Gibraltar based telephone betting service. The company are now taking ninety-seven per cent of all bets via online or mobile services according to reports and only VIP punters will be able to place bets by phone – I shall have to ask if my regular Saturday 25p Yankee makes me eligible for the ‘Elite’ service?

St. Leger Entries

Sixteen horses remain in the St Leger field at the latest forfeit stage with current 7-4 favourite Rewilding standing his ground. Dual Oaks heroine Snow Fairy is second favourite with Midas Touch, Artic Cosmos and Dandino next in the betting. Cape Blanco is also listed but O’Brien has stated that no decisions have been made yet and the stable are looking at the Tattersalls Millions Irish Champion Stakes as a possible alternative for the Irish Derby winner.

Variety Is The Spice Of Life

I had a slightly disappointing York with Sariska refusing to race and Starspangledbanner finishing second sandwiched between two 100-1 shots in the craziest Nunthorpe result for years. There has apparently been only two 100-1 winners of Group One races in Britain the other being a horse called Hittite Glory who won the Flying Childers in 1975. When your luck is out your luck is out!
So I am looking to get back to winning ways today at the Variety Club Day at Sandown.
In the first Long Lashes lines up for Godolphin. I backed the filly at Goodwood and she looked as though she needed the run. the filly had looked a good prospect last year and with cheek pieces for the first time on today I shall be giving her another chance in the Listed event. Seta is the big danger.
Native Khan can put himself into contention for next years Derby by taking the Group Three Solario Stakes at 2.35. The grey won his debut nicely at Newmarket and may well mature into a very nice horse.
Up at Chester one of my favourite handicapers Jedi takes his place in the 2.50. The Stoute trained gelding has been running well this year, the soft going will suit and as is all important with a track like Chester he has course form having won here back in May.
Be lucky

Ebor Festival - Day Four

I was unable to write this morning but no-one who reads this site would have had to ask which horse I was backing in the big sprint, and I can confirm tonight that I am starspangledstunned by the result at York.
Sole Power recorded the biggest upset of the Flat season by a country mile with an amazing win in the Nunthorpe at 100-1. I had of course backed Starspangledbanner and for a while it looked as though he might reel in the Edward Lynam trained colt but it was not to be. Another 100-1 shot, Piccadilly Filly, finished third.
Some days the formbook doesn't just get torn up it is torn into a million pieces, set on fire and the ashes scattered to the four corners of the world.

Ebor Festival - Day Three

I am at the Oval hopefully watching Anderson, Broad and Co. giving the Pakistan team another lesson in swing bowling; the teams batting on the first day having resembled the Recorder Select XI when we played Old Parkonians XI last year and lost by 76 runs.
Beaten in the Yorkshire Oaks at odds-on last year I expect Sariska to make amends for that today. It should be a cracker of a race with Midday an obvious danger but the Breeders’ Cup Fillys & Mares winner hasn’t been able to get the better of Sariska in three attempts. Dual Oaks winner Snow Fairy represents the Classic generation and is also a big threat. This should prove to be one of the highlights of the week if not the season. The dvd recorder is set.
The Lowther Stakes sees some nice two-year-olds lining up. Maqaasid ran a big race at the Royal meeting when winning the Group Two Queen Mary Stakes (beating my tip Meow) and is expected to take this despite having to give three pound to her rivals.
Yours truly from Silly Mid-Off
Be lucky

Ebor Festival - Day Two

A couple of really difficult handicaps again today at York, including the Ebor of course. I was planning on backing Ask in the Lonsdale Cup but he has been declared a non-runner.
In the 4.05 it is difficult to get away from Face The Problem, though at 6-4 Barry Hills' colt is short enough. He has won his last three starts, including a course and distance success, having finished third on his debut and to my mind is open to further improvement still.
Be lucky

Tuesday Review

Close but no cigar!
A great finish to the Juddmonte between Rip Van Winkle, Twice Over and Byword. Unfortunately my selection finished third of the three but the race was yet another advertisement for keeping horses in training.
Rewilding was impressive in the Great Voltigeur giving my selection Midas Touch a four length beating and the Godolphin colt now looks likely to take his chance in the St. Leger.

Ebor Festival - Day One

Some tough Handicap and Nursery races for the first day of the big meeting at York this week, but we are in for a treat with the Juddmonte and Great Voltigeur.
We have some very good horses lining up in the Juddmonte and with the going and distance a slight worry for Rip Van Winkle, Twice Over and Dick Turpin the preference is for Byword. The Fabre colts only defeat in his last four starts came at the hands of Goldikova over 1m 1f at Longchamp. He showed the benefit of an extra furlong when bating Twice Over in the Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot and has won on softer going.
In the Great Voltigeur I fancy Midas touch to turn around Epsom form with Rewilding. Having reviewed the race several times the O’Brien colt never really looked happy at Epsom and showed how good he could be when chasing home Cape Blanco in the Irish Derby. He has winning form as a two-year-old on softer going and a big run is expected.
Be lucky

Potential Stars - Update

Having mentioned Janood in the ‘Potential Stars’ editorial 11th August the colt maintained his unbeaten record and earned a 20-1 quote for the 2,000 Guineas with victory at Newbury on Saturday in the Listed Matalan Stakes (Registered As The Washington Singer Stakes). As mentioned earlier in the month the Medicean colts dam Alluring Park won as a two-year-old and is a full sister to Japanese Group One sprinter Shinko Forest (Green Desert-Park Express) and half sister to the top class Derby winner New Approach (Galileo-Park Express). Sire Medicean won the Lockinge Stakes and Eclipse Stakes during his racing career for Sir Michael Stoute and this bay colt definitely now looks like one to keep an eye on.

Ante-Post Bets - Update

2000 Guineas

Strong Suit 5-1

Janood 20-1

1000 Guineas

Memory 8-1

Helleborine 20-1

Blue Day At Newbury

I wrote here recently about Godolphin two-year-old Janood and the Medicean - Alluring Park colt has a chance to follow up on his debut win at Newmarket in the 2.00.
Another horse I have talked of is Kite Wood. I lost a few quid on the beast at Ascot when he did not get the 2m 4f but he won this race impressively last year and the rain will help him more than some of the others. Bin Suroor has stated that the Galileo colt has been working nicely leading up to this race.
My lil buddy Frankie picked out Dashing Doc in the 4.50 this morning whilst we were having breakfast. Now I wouldn't advise you to pawn the family silver and have a punt on the advice of a 21-month-old but I mention it as it might prove interesting to see if we have a budding tipster on our hands.
Be lucky

Racing For Change

I recently wrote to The Sunday Times, as one does, in regard to RFC and the decimal odds experiment and how I did not agree with the idea.
The Racing Post today posed the question ‘What do you think has Racing For Change achieved so far?’ upon it’s website and the posted remarks were of interest.
The only positive was from a gentleman who liked ‘the large number cloths’ and that was it. Generally the comments were along the lines of ‘Publicity for itself.’ ‘Makes money for the marketing man’ ‘Not a great deal to be honest’ ‘They are a waste of space’ 'nothing more than a gimmick and have achieved nothing of note so far' and my personal favourite ‘Jockeys wearing ruddy football shirts? They'll have the horses name painted on its backside next!’
I have mentioned previously that the screening of Stewards Inquiries is one of the few RFC ideas that I have been behind from day one and the VisitEngland Quality Assured Racecourse scheme in which courses will be assessed on things such as toilets, catering and retail outlets at least on paper can’t be a bad idea. The Breast Cancer Care Pink Mile at Chester should also be applauded for the money raised, but I would have to agree with the good folk on the RP website that to date I can see little RFC has done for the benefit of the sport.
One of the initiatives, and I am not pulling your leg here, is the encouraging of students to become ‘Horseracing Ambassadors’. According to the RFC website:
‘There are 3.2 million students in the UK who are an important future market for racing, so with the assistance of Capitalize, a specialist consultancy, Racing for Change has commenced a programme to recruit college-based racing fans who can help to promote the sport on campus during the next academic year. The selected students will be given advice on how to set up a university racing society and provided with a toolkit of support materials which will help them to communicate with fellow racing fans in and around their campus. Capitalize is looking for ambitious students who have an interest in horseracing and are keen to gain invaluable experience in sports marketing. Each student will be set a number of projects which will include arranging regular trips to local racecourses, themed educational race nights to help people learn more about horseracing and stable visits to see horses working on the gallops.’
So that is a ‘specialist consultancy’ brought in to advise students on organising a day out.
Down my local, The Cricketers, we have a ‘racing society’ of sorts. My Uncle Bernie puts up a piece of paper on the wall with details of the race meeting of choice on it. If you fancy going racing that day you put your name on the list and your money in the pint pot. My uncle Bernie then books a coach and off we all go.
If the guys at RFC care to drop me a line I will put them in contact with my uncle who will happily, and no doubt at considerably less cost than Capitalize, give them a sheet of paper out of his notebook, a couple of bits of blue-tac and lend them his ballpoint pen!

Potential Stars

As we come towards the final stages of the Flat season as someone venerated for the possession of wisdom, judgment, and of great experience - stop sniggering - it is time to test my sage like abilities and predict some two-year-olds that will be worth backing for the major races in 2011. I have had some success recently holding some nicely priced ante-post vouchers on Sea The Stars and Canford Cliffs in the last two years so here's hoping I can do it again.
I have talked about Strong Suit previously and I am holding a small ante-post voucher about the colt at 5-1 for the 2000 Guineas. His most recent run at the Curragh when defeated by Zoffany is a little worrying as is the fact he is now available at prices as big as 10-1. Fingers crossed it was no more than an off day for the Hannon colt and the trainer has stated that he feels he that he is the best of their 100-plus two-year-olds.
Zoffany will of course be at the top of may peoples list of two-year-olds to follow. Slightly disappointing when behind Strong Suit in the Coventry at the Royal meeting you can’t knock the form of his other five runs, all victories, and of course following the Curragh victory he now has a Group One in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes to his name. On breeding a step up to a mile next year shouldn’t be a problem.
King Torus won the Group Two Veuve Clicquot Vintage Stakes over seven furlongs on the 28th July at Goodwood to add to his Group Two win in the 32Red.com Superlative Stakes at Newmarket earlier in the Month. Breeding would suggest that a mile would probably be the Oratorio colts limit stamina wise.
Janood was an interesting debutant for Godolphin at Newmarket on the 30th July. The Medicean colts dam Alluring Park won as a two-year-old and is a full sister to Japanese Group One sprinter Shinko Forest (Green Desert-Park Express) and half sister to the top class Derby winner New Approach (Galileo-Park Express). He is entered at Newbury and York later this month and may be one to keep an eye on.
As for the fillies, I have already mentioned Memory as the outstanding two-year-old filly to have run this year and took the 8-1 for the 1000 Guineas at the time. At this stage of the season she still looks to be the best we have seen thus far.
Many a good judge was taken with the run of Helleborine when she won the Listed Prix Six Perfections at Deauville on the 31st July over seven furlongs, following up on her debut win at Maisons-Laffitte in June over six. There is plenty of black type in the Observatory fillys pedigree and a mile looks well within her range, possibly up to a mile and a quarter. She is not guaranteed to cross the channel to race in our 1000 Guineas of course but at 20-1 she is worth a small investment at this stage of the season.

Ante-Post Bets

2000 Guineas

Strong Suit 5-1

1000 Guineas

Memory 8-1

Helleborine 20-1

Football

The new season is upon us and if you care to read them (and why wouldn't you?) my views and opinions in regard to the coming months can be found on the special Football page.

Harbinger Retired

Harbinger has been retired. The four-year-old was the highest-rated Flat horse in the world following his eleven length demolition of the field in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. The colt will be remembered as one of the all-time greats. A decision on a potential stud career has yet to be confirmed but no-one can be in doubt that he will prove very popular with breeders if he is able to take up the new career.

Wolverhampton

Michael Bell has a good strike rate up at Wolverhampton and he sends out a likely sort in the shape of Screenprint in the Bet In-play At Ladbrokes.com Nursery Handicap at 3.45. A recent winner at Epsom the chestnut colt looks to be on a fair weight for his Nursery debut and a couple of quid will be invested.
Be lucky

Curragh Report

A mixed day for the O’Brien stable at the big Curragh meeting on Sunday as Fame And Glory returned to action with a comfortable victory in the Group 2 Royal Whip Stakes. Next up it looks likely to be either the Irish Champion Stakes or the Prix Foy on the way to the Arc.
Zoffany was impressive in the Phoenix Stakes overturning the Coventry form in beating the strongly fancied odds on Strong Suit. The Dansili colt is now quoted at 8-1 for the 2000 Guineas with my ante-post ticket on Strong Suit for the Guineas now not looking at little skinny at 5-1.
In the two-year-old fillies heat the Galileo filly Together disappointed for the O’Brien team hanging badly and finishing third behind the Jessica Harrington trained Laughing Lashes.

Harbinger

It has been announced that a decision concerning the racing future of Harbinger will probably be taken on Monday. The highest-rated horse in the world, and recent King George winner, suffered a career-threatening injury on the gallops Saturday morning and is unlikely to race again with John Warren, director of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, stating that the chances of seeing the colt on the racetrack again was ‘a longshot’. The good news is the horse is reported to have recovered well from surgery and is described as ‘comfortable and in very good condition’.

I Forsee Roses & Gems Leading To Heartbreak

Shergar Cup day at Ascot. I am not a fan of the concept as far as betting is concerned, too many jockeys riding tracks they do not know and horses they have never sat on before. It's a novelty once a year and interesting to see the different jockeys but it doesn't really get me over excited. If you simply must have a bet the European team to win would be my advice but I will not be getting involved.
Up North its is Rose of Lancaster day and I fancy the mare Les Fazzani to take the race. Back on her preferred soft going, she has won here before has Hanagan on board and Kevin Ryan has had four winners already this month - Get on!
Also at Haydock Breakheart has been in great from this year wining twice and being beaten only a neck and a nose on the subsequent two runner up efforts. The soft going today is an unknown for the Balding gelding but I was a massive fan of the sire Sakhee and he certainly liked to get a toe in and a big run is expected.
Over at Newmarket the boys in blue have a couple of likely sorts in the shape of Psychic Ability and White Moonstone. Psychic Ability won on his seasonal reappearance and with the usual expected improvement for that run the Kingmambo colt can win the opener. White Moonstone won her maiden at Ascot nicely going away in the final furlong, the way she did that and her breeding would suggest the extra furlong today will suit.
Be lucky

Newmarket Madness

Suggs and the Madness boys will be giving it plenty at Newmarket tonight; my old mucker Maria will be there in her little 2-tone black and white mini dress no doubt – she’s got the legs and bum for it ;o)
It is as ever competitive racing but there are two that take my eye. Star Surprise has been improving with every run and showed a good attitude to score over 7f at Sandown on his last outing. The Dubawi chestnut colt looks fairly treated at the weights here tonight and with a little further improvement he must have a chance.
Chabal took a bit of a beating in the Dante Stakes at York last time finishing fully twenty lengths behind Cape Blanco. The Galileo colt had previously looked like a decent three-year-old prospect passing the post first on his seasonal reappearance in the Group 3 Classic Trial at Sandown, later disqualified. A return to that sort of form would make him a big player here and Saeed Bin Suroor has a good strike-rate at Newmarket.
Be lucky

Inquiry Into Inquiries

The debate rages in regard to the screening of Stewards Inquiries.
It is one of the few RFC ideas that I have been behind from day one and as far as I am concerned yes I think they definitely should be kept. I do wish though that we could also hear from the Stewards themselves, only hearing the jockeys does seem somewhat to negate the point of televising the proceedings it is a ‘Stewards Inquiry’ after all. Hopefully future screenings will help promote the honesty and integrity of British Racing and let’s face it, at the big televised meetings such as Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood it beats ten minutes of waffle from some limp wristed bloke you have never heard of about some half drunk girl in a big hat!

Old’uns Are Good’uns

Ed Dunlop confirmed on Wednesday morning that dual Oaks winner Snow Fairy will stay in training as a four-year-old which is wonderful news, continuing the recent trend for some of the very best three-year-olds staying in training and giving us racegoers a chance to watch them develop. A tilt at this years St Leger was also mentioned.
Talking of older horses Harbinger, Fame And Glory, Twice Over, Sariska, Rip Van Winkle and Midday to name but a few feature among a star studded list of entrants for the Emirates Airline Champion Stakes at Newmarket on the 16th October. Although it is unlikely they will all show up, especially with the first two named being favourites for the Arc on 2nd October, it is wonderful to see so many good horses still in training at four and five. The latter stages of the Flat season promises some wonderful races to enjoy.

Arena Leisure

Worrying news revealed yesterday from Arena Leisure with their Chairman David Thorpe warning that dozens of race meetings may be scraped with the lack of funding for prize money and meetings coming via the Levy. With William Hill announcing they are to soon relocate their telephone betting organisation to Gibraltar to take advantage of the tax benefits it appears things can only get worse. The system is clearly out of date in today's world of telephone accounts, web accounts and betting exchanges. Something must be done to stop the rot before meetings are lost or in the worse case scenario some of the smaller courses cease trading all together.
Some good news for Arena though as their half-year profits were up 25% and average attendances at their tracks increased by 3%, which bearing in mind this was of course a World Cup year, has to be seen as encouraging. Lingfield and Windsor, owned by Arena, happen to be two of my favourite tracks and I believe it just goes to show that if you offer a good product with good facilities the crowds will come; lets hope the Racing For Change guys are taking note.

Pass The Scotch

Whiskey Junction gets beat at Windsor topping off a terrible couple of days. Where did I leave that bottle.............

A Whsikey At Windsor

With my luck over the last three or four days a stiff whiskey wouldn’t hurt and at Windsor tonight Whiskey Junction might just be the answer to the AC Beck Handicap, 8.10.
Mick Quinn's six-year-old gelding has looked to be regaining some form recently and Seb Sanders is back in the saddle tonight. It was a fair second behind Rough Rock at Yarmouth recently and he is fancied to take this with his front running style, distance, going and a high draw all in the geldings favour - if he doesn't I will be in need of a large one!

Ripon

Hardly the most inspiring of racing today but I like the look of one up north in the shape of the Michael Jarvis trained Sarrsar. The Lingfield maiden winner put up a fair performance at Goodwood last time out when third, runner-up Start Right has won twice since, and the nicely bred gelding is fancied to take the 3.15 at Ripon today.
Be lucky

Who's The Daddy VI

Dansili by Danehill out of Hasili was a top-class miler in his own right as a two time Group Three winner and winner of the Prix du Muguet in 2000 - Group Two.
He has proven to be a decent source of smart two-year-olds thus far in his Stallion career but his progeny also progress extremely well as proved by the ultra impressive Harbinger at the weekend in the King George. Other recent good performers include Strawberrydaiquiri (not so impressive at Goodwood on 31st), Famous Name, the three-year-old filly Bewitched and two-year-old Group Three winner Zoffany.

Glorious Goodwood - Day Five

Let down by a couple of short ones yesterday so we need a couple of winners today.
Strawberrydaiquiri should be suited by the step up in distance for the Nassau Stakes and I fancy the Stoute trained grey filly to take the Group One.
I was a fan of Long Lashes last season and the drop down to Listed class gives the Godolphin filly a chance of making a winning seasonal debut.
Be lucky

Glorious Goodwood - Day Four

Three doubles and a treble on three fairly short ones looks the way to go at Goodwood this afternoon.
In the first it is hard to get past Duncan; his second to Harbinger in the Hardwicke at Royal Ascot reads pretty damn good bearing in mind the the latters demolition job in the King George at the weekend and the fact that the third and fourth have won since.
Libranno represents the all conquering partnership of Hannon and Hughes in the Tanqueray Richmond Stakes and is fancied despite the 3lb penalty for his July Stakes victory.
And finally in the Oak Tree Stakes I like the look of Jacqueline Quest, first past the post in the 1000 Guineas (subsequently demoted to second) and third in the Coronation Stakes, a repeat of that form would see the Cecil filly taking the honours.
Be lucky

Non-runner

Kite Wood has been withdrawn from the Goodwood Cup, reducing the field to ten runners, because of the quicker ground. Frankie Dettori will now ride Wajir for Godolphin.

Gloroius Goodwood - Day Three

Unbelievably tricky at Goodwood today to my mind, should be some great racing to watch but not a day to start having big bets.
I am a fan of Kite Wood, and if you forgive him the poor effort at Ascot, the four-year-old colt is worth an each way punt in the two mile Goodwood Cup.
Be lucky

Wednesday Review

Canford Cliffs was very impressive and supplied us with at least one win down at Goodwood. I thought Oratory was a little unlucky, the gap just not coming, whilst Crown Prosecutor simply did not get the trip.
The big Slovak Libor Charfreitag did us a favour out in Barcelona launching the hammer 80.02 metres to take Gold.

Hammer On

Over at the European Athletics Championship in Barcelona I think there is a good thing in the Men’s Hammer competition.
The big Slovak Libor Charfreitag - four times winner of ‘Slovak athlete of the year’ no less - has a P.B. over 81 metres and has the longest throw of this season at 80.59. He qualified for the final easy as you like with one throw of 77.70 on Tuesday with his nearest rival Krisztián Pars taking three attempts to lodge a best of 76.48. take the 6-4 available at paddy Power.

Canford Cliffs

Another beautifully judged ride by Richard Hughes on my horse of the year Canford Cliffs. The Hannon trained colt was eating up the ground in the closing furlong and got up close home to beat Rip Van Winkle (and the various O’Brien pace setting helpers) to win a shade cosily in the end even if the official distance is only a neck.
Back on the 15th June I went on record as saying ‘best three-year-old miler end of story!’ the Tagula colt has now taken three Group One races at a mile, Irish 2,000 Guineas and the St James’s Palace Stakes against the three-year-olds and today's Sussex Stakes against the older generation and surely now has to be considered the best miler out there full stop.

Glorious Goodwood - Day Two

Anyone who knows me or has visited this site before will not need to ask who I will be backing in the Sussex Stakes. Canford Cliffs has more than confirmed himself as the top three-year-old miler this seasson and I hope he will today prove he can mix it with the older generation also.
The handicaps on the card at Goodwood today are devilishly tricky and there are too many possible unraced good things in the two-year-old maiden fillies stakes to get involved.
Crown Prosecutor is unbeaten in two starts and has every chance of winning the Veuve Clicquot Vintage Stakes at 2.45. In the lucky last Oratory could give the Hannon/Hughes combination another winner with the drop back to seven furlongs hopefully proving in the geldings favour.
Be lucky

So Far So Good

50% strike rate at Glorious Goodwood – lets hope we can still say that come the weekend.
Having raced prominently and taken it up turning for home in the Lennox Stakes Dalghar is run down in the shadow of the post finishing a close third behind Lord Shanakill and Cat Junior.
In the Molecomb Stakes Zebedee does the exact opposite coming home like a train on the far side to get up in the last hundred yards or so, actually a shade cosily to my eye, with Richard Hughes taking a sneaky look across at his rivals as they crossed the line.

Glorious Goodwood - Day One

The weather is none to glorious for the start of the big meeting at Goodwood today and the racing is fiercely competitive as the betting markets suggest.
Zebedee has a chance in the Group Three Molecomb Stakes. His only defeat in four starts came in the Group 1 Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot when finishing fifth behind Approve. Stone of Folca who finished half a length ahead in fourth opposes again today but I think Zebedee can reverse that form and prove too good for these rivals having won nicely in a Listed event at Sandown since.
In the Bet Fair Cup French raider Dalghar has been backed solidly all morning and must have a chance having put up a fair effort behind the great Goldikova and Paco Boy at Royal Ascot.
Be lucky

Harbinger

What can I add to the numerous editorials produced down the years concerning the career of Sir Michael Stoute? Probably not a lot but yet again this weekend the Barbados born master of Freemason Lodge stables has stolen the headlines.
The man has trained horses to win all but one of the big races in the flat calendar with over 20 English and Irish Classics to his name as well as many of the most prestigious races around the globe such as the Breeders' Cup Turf and the Dubai World Cup. The missing race is the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe and with Harbinger, following his emphatic King George win, he has a real chance this year to right that wrong.
What can you say about Harbinger, the colt was tackling Group One company for the first time in the King George and barely came off the bridle in scoring by 11 lengths and breaking the course record. You had to be impressed with the four-year-old bay colt at the weekend and all being well he will surely line up at Longchamp as favourite for the Arc, even if the best priced 2-1 that is available at the time of writing seems a little ‘skinny’ over two months before the race.
I understand from reports that Workforce is undergoing examinations to try and ascertain what, if anything was wrong with the colt on Saturday; lets hope he doesn’t turn out to be a one race wonder.
One of my favourite meetings of the year Glorious Goodowood starts on Tuesday, here's hoping we can find a winner or two.

King George Day

After the last few Saturdays here's hoping the weekend curse leaves us alone today.
Can't get away from Workforce in the big one though he will be a shade odds on, if he is as good as he looked in the Derby he will win this.
Haatheq has a Chane to gain revenge on Side Glance in the 3.15 and I think the extra furlong will help the Dunlop colt.
Up at York I like the look of Bushman in the 3.05 although the going might not be ideal, Hawkeyethenoo has a chance in the Sky Bet Dash.
Be lucky

Tattersalls Millions

Interesting to see the entrants still left in the Tattersalls Millions races after the latest scratchings stage, with connections looking to collect their share of the £1.75 million on offer. Some of the big guns still entered for the races include Memory (current 1000 guineas favourite), Norfolk Stakes winner Approve, Railway Stakes winner Formosina and the only George Washington foal Date With Destiny.
The first of the races is the £100,000 Tattersalls Millions Auction Stakes at Newmarket 28th August with the most valuable of the eight races being the Tattersalls Millions 2YO Trophy to be run at Newmarket on the Rowley Mile course October 2nd worth a massive £500,000.

Silly Season

And so the silly season begins in the run-up to the new football season
Read earlier today at london24.com: 'Harry Redknapp believes Tottenham could win the Barclays Premier League this season.'
When I was little I used to believe in Father Christmas!

Stewards!

I understand that stewards’ inquiries are to be broadcast live on television from the King George meeting at Ascot this weekend and at Glorious Goodwood next week.
Part of Racing for Change's exercise to broaden the appeal of the sport it is one of the few ideas I actually agree with. The idea fell flat somewhat when first trialled at Epsom as no inquiries actually took place. I am not sure whether the occasional racegoer/armchair punter will learn much form the experiment but I do think it will prove of interest to more devoted followers being able to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the processes and considerations undertaken by the stewards in the until now secretive world on the inquiry room - especially if you have just lost a couple quid in a close finish!

King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes - Update

Epsom Derby winner Workforce will face a maximum of just seven rivals in Saturday's King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, eleven horses being taken out at Monday's declaration stage. Sir Michael Stoute also has Harbinger and Confront in the race. Aidan O'Brien has cut his runners to just two with Irish Derby hero Cape Blanco and Derby second At First Sight his representatives. John Gosden has left Dar Re Mi in the field with Youmzain and Daryakana also due to line up.

Irish Oaks

The Saturday curse strikes again with two seconds yesterday!
Over in the emerald isle today we have the Irish 1000 Guineas. It is a tough race with a number of good fillies lining up several of whom are very closely matched on form. Winner of the Ribblesdale Stakes at Ascot Hibaayeb would be my fancy to just prevail over Epsom 1-2 Snow Fairy and Meeznah.
Be lucky

Super Sprint Day

I am actually going to swerve the Super Sprint and instead go for High Standing in the Shadwell Stakes, 2.15 at Newbury. I also like the look of another sprinter in the shape of ultra consistent Rocket Rob at Newmarket in the 5.15.
Be lucky

Newmarket Nights

Newmarket Nights are in full swing with Simply Red performing tonight. Unfortunately I can't attend but my old mate Jackie and her man are going along so I thought I would take at look at the racing.
Now if you don’t know me by now, something got me started and even if money’s too tight to mention I will be shooting for the stars - you want a tip? You’ve got it.
The 7.25 looks a decent opportunity for Elnawin to get back to winning ways. Richard Hannon's colt hasn't visited the winners enclosure since winning a Group 3 race at Kempton on the all-weather back in 2008 but has been running well enough in Group and Listed company since and should prove too good in this grade.
The 9.00 is quite a tricky little handicap but King Columbo having finished a close third in his last three outings, including over course and distance last month, appears in good heart. Assisted by one of the better jockeys in the race the chestnut gelding should be thereabouts again and an each way punt would be advised.
Be lucky

I wouldn’t usually get too involved with midweek evening meetings, let alone two-year-old maidens, but in the Brothers Strawberry Cider E.B.F. Maiden Stakes at Epsom tonight we have one of interest.
Book Keeper has plenty of black type in his breeding and is well worth a small investment to open his account on his debut at a best priced 9-1.

Findlay

Read this morning that the Gold Cup winning owner Harry Findlay has had his six-month ban from the sport overturned, his penalty has also been reduced to a £4,500 fine having been banned last month after being found guilty of two charges of laying his horse Gullible Gordon on Betfair to lose.

Laying of horses on Betfair is always going to open a big can of worms but in this instance I think the correct decision has been made, it should be remembered that the 'back' bets out weighted his 'lay' bets, and he stood to lose money if his horse lost.

Fore!

I have been known to swing a club and fly up a divot or two in my time, no truth in the stories that I spent so much time in the sand that I was in danger of being renamed Rommel, so I have been running an eye over the Open Championship betting to see if there is any value to be had.
It is twelve years since Justin Rose first came to prominence as a 17-year-old at Royal Birkdale and he has had his ups and downs since in his professional career. Having hauled himself back up to 16th in the current world rankings he has won the Memorial and AT&T over in the US in the last few weeks and is playing some very good golf this season leading to a nice little earner of just over $3m dollars on the US tour.
Having finished in the top ten on five occasions in Majors I believe this year he can step up and has a great chance of getting his hands on the Claret Jug come Sunday afternoon. At 22-1 with Paddy Power, 1/4 the odds the first seven, a few quid each way will be invested.
Be lucky

Tuesday Talk

I do like to be beside the seaside, oh I do like to be beside the sea and at Yarmouth tonight we have a possible improver who might just pay for an ice cream and a bag of doughnuts.
Livia Quarta ran a fair race here in June, she had to be switched a couple of times in running but when she finally got going she came home strongly and kept on like a horse requiring further in the final furlong to finish third behind My Lord (tipped here since finishing third at Newbury). Having reviewed the race again last night I am convinced the Titus Livius filly will benefit for the extra furlong tonight as you would expect given her breeding (Grandsire Machiavellian, great grandsires Mr Prospector and Be My Guest).
Be lucky

Potential Stars and Starspangledbanner

Another sorry Saturday with a second and two thirds, at least the weather was hot if the tipping wasn't; perhaps I should stick to midweek punting.
It’s that time of year when I like to take a look at possible classic contenders for next season and to date only two horses really stand out for me, and looking at the betting for the bookies also. Memory is the outstanding filly and Strong Suit looks to be the best colt at this time. The two are short enough at this stage with over ten months to the Guineas, Memory about 8-1 and Strong Suit 5-1, but I shall be having a small long term investment on both. I will of course be keeping a beady eye on the major two-year-old races during the second half of the season as we probably haven’t seen all of the potential stars just yet and of course there are plenty of potential improvers out there.
Already a star in my eyes I was very happy to read that Starspangledbanner will be staying in training and not returning to Australia for stud duties. There is a possibility the colt may be given a run over a mile at some stage, he won the Caulfield Guineas back in Oz, and of course there is the very real chance of a tilt at the Breeders Cup Sprint at the end of the season.

John Smiths Cup

Yet again a beautiful day and some great racing on show; it really has been a lovely week.
Up at York we have the John Smiths Cup and I like the look of Imposing. The Stoute colt won nicely here in May before running second at the Royal meeting, he looks to have a little bit of class and is fancied to take this. Later on the card jockey of the moment Paul Hanagan has a couple of short ones and every chance of adding to his 91 winners so far this season. Dubai Media making her debut for the Ed Dunlop yard is fancied in the 4.50 and Bachelor Knight who has been progressing nicely and won his last two starts can swoop late and take the sprint at 5.25
Earlier at Ascot Haatheq lines up in the 1.45. Following a couple of wins over seven earlier in the season he was tried over a mile at Doncaster last time out, finishing second to Sea Lord. Having reviewed the races again it looks to me like seven suits the John Dunlop colt better and he is of interest dropping back in distance today. The Summer Mile Stakes at 2.50 is a competitive Group Two with some nice horses lining up. Dream Eater followed Goldikova and Paco Boy home at the Royal meeting in the Queen Anne Stakes and could be up to taking this and finally getting a well deserved Group win.
Be lucky

Friday Update

Formosina was a bit of a disappointment to say the least, not picking up at all having looked like putting in a challenge but suddenly in trouble over a furlong from home. It might be that sprint distances are going to suit the Footstepsinthesand colt best.
Talking of sprint distances, I am never one to say told you so but……...
Starspangledbanner does it again.
Having first talked of the Australian import back in May for the Duke of York Stakes, the Choisir colt has since demolished the field in the Golden Jubilee at Ascot with a bold front running display and has today put some of the best sprinters around to the sword again whilst displaying just how tough he is with a battling victory at Newmarket over Equiano.
If anyone wants me I shall be at the payout counter and then sitting at the bar in the sunshine. Fingers crossed My Lord does the business at Newbury later.
Be lucky

Friday

Yet again a beautiful day for it, I am unfortunately stuck at the desk for a while but rest assured I shall be out in the lovely July sunshine as soon as possible if not before. Don't you just love it when the temperature and hemlines rise.
Anybody who knows me or has ever visited this site will know the horse I shall be backing in the July Cup, Starspangledbanner will be short and will win. In the Superlative Stakes I like the look of another likely short priced one in the shape of Jeremy Noseda inmate Formosina. Third to subsequent Coventry Stakes winner Strong Suit on his debut he won his maiden at Doncaster on his second outing and took the Group 2 Railway Stakes at the Curragh last time out in June. The stable is in good form with four winners from eight runners this month already. Two singles and a double should pay for a shandy or two.
I mentioned My Lord yesterday and though he does have it to do off top weight, with young J Dean taking a handy 3lb off with the claim and the to be expected improvement following his debut win the gelding has a chance at a fair price up at Newbury tonight.
Be lucky

Thursday Update

Up and down like a cheap tarts knickers. Not such a good day today, something was clearly amiss with Elzaam and Spanish Moon run gallantly but was unsuccessful.
A quick word for tomorrow - entered in the GT Exhibitions 10th Anniversary Selling Stakes at Newbury on Friday night (9th July) My Lord could be a two-year-old to follow. The gelding was always with the leading group on his debut at Yarmouth taking the lead around the furlong pole before staying on nicely. Although giving weight away to his rivals today a bold bid can be expected again provided he lines up.

Thursday

Good morning dear reader, a good start to the week with a couple of winners yesterday; delighted to see Music Show finally get her Group One.
First bet of the day today will be another horse recommended previously. Elzaam was collared in the shadow of the post at Ascot by Strong Suit, the rest well beaten, and the Michael Jarvis colt should take this on his way to a crack at the big two-year-old races later this season.
Sir Michael Stoute has been pitching Spanish Moon at some big races across the globe and the six-year-old should be able to take the Group Two Princess of Wales’s Stakes on his return to racing on these shores.
Be lucky

Wednesday

A late late update today, I won't bore you with why suffice to say sometimes my days are blighted by fools and idiots everywhere I turn.
Lets try and get the July meeting off to a flyer with a couple of winners. Memory won The Albany Stakes at Ascot and can follow up here, her price will be short but I cannot see her getting beat.
I have made no secret of my liking of Music Show this season and I will not be deserting the Channon filly today, she is a Group One filly and has been unlucky in the big races so far - today is the day I am sure.
Be lucky

Who's The Daddy V

A very nice Group One winning two-year-old himself Holy Roman Emperor has his first set of two-year-olds on the racetracks in 2010. We know all about Roman Eagle having backed the colt on his winning debut at Sandown on Friday of last week but Holy Roman Emperor has sired ten winners to date this season, winning twelve races in total, with a number of his offspring having also made the places in their races.
By Danehill out of the unraced Secretariat mare L’On Vite there is every reason to believe his progeny should prove to be high class at two and train on as three-year-olds at distances between six furlongs – eight furlongs. Roman Eagle, High Award, Rex Romanorum and 00sassy Bird are just four with big race entries later in the season.

An Apology

Having had a good day Friday with a couple of winners from three tips the wheels came off yesterday in spectacular fashion, my apologies to anyone following the tips. I will be putting extra time in to get the money lost back over the next few days - beware bookies, the cash will be coming back.

Total Eclipse

Another beautiful day and some wonderful sport to be enjoyed, great racing, cricket at Lords, Wimbledon, Tour de France and of course the World Cup going along nicely unfortunately none the worse for Englands early exit. I am told the Stevie G rumour that everybody knows turns out to be untrue - Stevie G fails to score again!
The Eclipse gets underway at 3.10. I wrote earlier this week about Dar Re Mi and I shall be having a few quid on the Gosden mare.
Decorative has a great chance to continue her wining form in the Distaff taking the step up to Listed class in her stride.
Manighar will be plenty short enough in the betting for the Marathon but is the clear choice on form, although the good to firm going is a slight worry. He had the beating of Opinion Poll and King of Wands at Goodwood last time out and the grey is better at the weights today.
In the lucky last Lovers Causeway has an each way chance. The Mark Johnston colt has won on his last two starts and though this is a step up in class he may well get his own way out in front today which makes him a big player.
On occasions there is the opportunity to nick a couple of quid away from the big meetings and up at Beverley today we have two such opportunities. I won't be making the trek up north  but an old mate of mine Tiff will be there for the day and he could do worse than back Dabbers Ridge in the 3.15. Twice a winner at the track already this year the race should be run to suit.
Sharp Eclipse lines up in the 5.35 and has a great chance of finally picking up a well deserved victory from the ideal high draw - they should pay for a pint of Theakstons Old Peculier and a pickled egg on the way home.
Be lucky

Sunny Sandown

Beautiful day for it and some nice racing at Sandown today. The 3.25 is not a race to get overly involved with but it will certainly be one to watch with some interesting two-year-olds lining up. I will be keeping an eye on Roman Eagle (Holy Roman Emperor – Qhazeenah) as I like the look of his breeding. The sire is having a fine first season so far and the mare has produced three winners to date; a couple of bob will be invested.
The Dragon Stakes sees Zebedee dropping in grade. Richard Hannon's grey colt won his first two starts before a decent effort when fifth in the Group Two Norfolk Stakes at the Royal meeting, he will take all the beating today.
Confront has not been at his best this season so far but if coming back to form the Listed Mouton Cadet Gala Stakes should be his for the taking.
Be lucky

Coral Eclipse

It is the Coral Eclipse this weekend down at Sandown. The race has been won by some great thoroughbreds down the years such as Dancing Brave, Giants Causeway and the only filly to ever win the race Pebbles.
I was taken with the way the John Gosden five-year-old Dar Re Mi won the Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan. Having won the Yorkshire Oaks last year beating Sariska, as well as running a creditable fifth in the Arc, behind the great Sea The Stars, and running third in the Breeders Cup Turf behind Conduit the mare is obviously an animal of some class.
Twice Over will be popular but I believe Dar Re Mi will make a triumphant return to the British Isles and will take all the beating and is currently available at 11-4.
I shall be taking a closer look at the racing from Sandown on Friday and Saturday later this week.

Plate Day

Mamlook has an each way chance in The Northumberland Plate up at Newcastle at 8-1. I will be sticking with Coordianted Cut in the Irish Derby tomorrow and an each way big race double might be the way to go.
The lightly-raced Himalya has a chance in the Group 3 Chipchase Stakes earlier in the day in Geordieland, beaten in two big handicaps over the last few weeks today could be his turn.
I do like a Tipsy Girl and the Haafhd filly is fancied to run a big race in the Empress Stakes at Newmarket today and is another at an each way price.

Irish Derby

Unlikely to be a brilliant renewal of the Irish Derby at the Curragh on Sunday. At the moment I am somewhat unmoved by it and will be leaving any decision regard to having a punt till the weekend. If you just can not wait, Coordinated Cut is available at 10's this morning and must have an each way chance.

A Word About The Football

All the gang were in trouble. They were on a trip abroad and their custodian was really annoyed with them and the way in which they had been behaving. The gang were upset because they were very bored and they hadn’t been able to text their friends or use their PlayStations – some of the guys had serious Grand Theft cold turkey. Ladies man, he’d been given the nickname by the lads as he’d been caught snogging his mates girlfriend behind the bike sheds, had gone and said some stuff he shouldn’t and now the patience of the grown ups was wearing thin. All the gang had been there at their secret meeting and at the time had agreed with Ladies man, he was the biggest after all. Now though the brown stuff had really hit the fan and Tubs, Barn Door, Hair Bear, Wing Nut, Y-Fronts, Hub Caps, Stretch and Titch were all distancing themselves from his comments rather than get in any further trouble. Mr C had called them into his office and told all of them he was going to make Ladies man stand up in assembly and apologise to everyone……………

Was the above:
A: Short extract from an old script of Grange Hill
B. Comic strip from the Beano
C. The England football team preparing for their do or die knock out match versus Slovenia

Royal Review

What a week. Some truly great racing with track records being broken and numerous superb and memorable performances. Canford Cliffs victory was one of the highlights for me having talked up the colt all season. The tussle between Goldikova and Paco Boy in the Queen Anne was the sort of finish you go racing too see and then we were treated to another classic in the Gold Cup with a thrilling battle to the line between Rite of Passage and Age Of Aquarius. The way Starspangledbanner took the Golden Jubilee was ultra impressive leading all the way and simply galloping the opposition into submission. It really has been a great meeting.
I got to visit the payout queue on  more than one occasion which is always nice with the great Canford Cliffs leading the way, followed by Hibaayeb, Bay Willow each way, Memory, Harbinger and the speedy Starspangledbanner; also came so very close with Paco Boy, Elzaam, Meow and Quadrille. I am happy to report that at the end of play the betting bank is larger than it was on Tuesday morning so smiles all round.
I read that the Racing For Change idea for seven races each day next year with at least one of the Group One races on the Tuesday being moved to the Saturday is to get the go ahead. I can understand moving one of the Group One races to the Saturday when in theory more people can watch, I just hope the additional races do not dilute the quality of the meeting.
As anyone who watched this year will be able to testify the quality of the racing is beyond doubt, and that more than anything will always get people coming through the turnstiles.

Day Five

Into the last day and we are still standing, although a little blurry eyed after last night but I shan't waste too many words on the abomination that was the football.
Richard Hannons two-year-olds are flying at the moment and King Torus can add to his debut win at Leicester by taking the Chesham Stakes.
Harbinger has matured into a fine horse and should be too good for his opponents in the Hardwicke Stakes.
I have spoken before about Starspangledbanner, and backed him at York when he finished fifth. O'Brien is on record as saying the colt will be sharper for the run and I will be sticking with him in the Golden Jubilee Stakes.
The Wokingham is as difficult as ever but a couple of bob each way on Jimmy Styles should see us at the payout counter.
Up at Ayr Bewitched has a good chance in the Scottish News Of The World Fillies Stakes and is fancied to add to her two wins already this season.
Be lucky

Day Four

The liver and the betting bank are holding up as we move into the last couple of days.
I liked the look of Memory when the Hannon filly won at Goodwood and a couple of bob will be riding on her in the opener.
Bullet Train flopped at Epsom, looking as though he struggled down the hill having been sat in second he was allowed to cruise home once his chance had gone so you can ignore his finishing position. I still believe he is a good horse and the colt is given a chance in the King Edward VII Stakes.
Music Show won her race at Newmarket (drawn on the wrong side) and ran credibly in Ireland and she is fancied to take a well deserved Group 1 victory in the Coronation Stakes.
I like the look of Corsica in the Queens Vase and the colts trainer Mark Johnston has a great record in the race having won it five times in recent years.
Here's hoping we will be raising a glass or two by the time England kick off against Algeria this evening and that the boys don't make a total hash of it again tonight!
Be lucky

Day Three

It took a two-year-old course record from Maqaasid to beat Meow yesterday and the other two-year-old tipped up here in May is out today. Dinkum Diamond runs in the Norfolk Stakes at 2.30. The Henry Candy colt impressed me on his debut and was better still in winning the Listed event at Sandown last month, I can see him taking this on his way to even bigger things.
There is a doubt about the stamina of Hibaayeb in the Ribblesdale but if she gets the trip she is the class act in the field on form.
I have spoken before of my admiration for Kite Wood and I will be investing a couple of bob on the Godolphin stayer in the Gold Cup; I think he could go on to be a top Cup horse over the coming seasons.
The Britannia is as difficult as ever again this year but a couple of quid on the Michael Bell trained Hypnotized should see us getting a run for our money. Unlucky at Goodwood when finding all the trouble in running with a bit of luck today compensation awaits.
It is Royal Ascot so it would be lovely to see the Queen, gawd bless her, in the winners enclosure and I think she has a chance with the Richard Hannon trained Quadrille in the Hampton Court Stakes.
The lucky last King George V Stakes is a tricky little handicap to my mind and a small each way punt on Bay Willow is the bet.
Be lucky

Day Two

With Canford Cliffs winning we head into the second day a nose in front, but for a couple of inches Elzaam and Paco Boy could have put us lengths clear!
Some wonderful racing again today and I think the Godolphin team should have the bookies singing the blues with a possible hat-trick. I fancy Shakespearean to confirm the class he showed at Epsom in the opening Jersey Stakes. The German import Antara should take the Windsor Forest Stakes and I believe Cavalryman is an each way certainty in the Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes and if finding his three-year-old form could well take the victory.
Later on the card I like the look of Safina in the Sandringham Handicap, lovely breeding, top connections and almost certainly still improving.
I mentioned Meow on this site on the 28th May and I will certainly be backing the filly in the Queen Mary Stakes. As mentioned previously the Tabor owned two-year-old is bred to be a bit speedy being by Storm Cat out of Airwave and she could prove to be a bit special.
Be lucky

Richard Marmite Hughes

What more can I say about Mr Hughes today.
Delightful on Canford Cliffs; a great ride on what I clearly believe to be a great horse. If any of you out there still doubt how good this horse is have a look at the replay - best three-year-old miler end of story!
Dreadful on Paco Boy. In my opinion it was a huge mistake giving a wonderful horse a five length lead and getting beat a neck. I know Paco has to be ridden that way but you cannot give a mare such as Goldikova that sort of opportunity.
Down right annoying on Strong Suit. Okay I am talking from the pocket here, but coming to catch Elzaam on the nod having dropped his mount out the back and found all sort of trouble in running .... Where's the justice?
Richard Hughes: Love him or hate him? Right now I do not know.

Day One

The first day of the Royal meeting is here and it looks like being a cracking few days racing.
Say what you like about some of the people that go these days who seem more interested in fashion and being seen at one of the big summer 'events', and I know a number know nothing about racing and have no interest in learning either, but if you can ignore those idiots it is still one of the greatest race meetings in the world.
I will be sticking with Canford Cliffs in the St. James's Palace Stakes, no surprise to anyone who has logged onto this site before. I fancy the Brits to win the Kings Stand for a change and will be having a little flutter on Kingsgate Native. The Queen Anne Stakes is a real head scratcher being a big fan not only of Paco Boy but also Goldikova. I think I will stick with Richard Hannons charge, though a small saver might be placed on the French wonder mare as she does receive a slight weight advantage on her male rivals.
The two-year-old heats are as usual better watched for possible future winners than getting too heavily involved with though Elzaam looks a nice type in the Coventry and might be worth a small investment. The handicap looks a wide open affair and best left alone.
Be lucky

Only Days To Go

With the big meeting just days away you can almost hear the chink chink of Pimms glasses. I shall be getting my nut into the formbook, keeping my ear to the ground for any whispers (usually useless) and generally waffling on regard the Royal meeting on these pages.
Truth be told I am a little like a child on Christmas eve and in danger of getting over excited before the event even begins. Just a quick glance at the first day and you get an idea of the quality of the racing we have too look forward to from Ascot next week.
On the first day alone we should see a titanic battle between Goldikova, Paco Boy and Rip Van Winkle in the Queen Anne Stakes followed by a clash of the 2000 Guineas winners with Canford Cliffs looking to take revenge on Makfi for the Newmarket defeat in the St. James's Palace Stakes with Steinbeck and Dick Turpin due to line-up for good measure. Sandwiched in between these two races we have the small matter of the King´s Stand Stakes with the likes of Starspangledbanner, Kingsgate Native and Fleeting Spirit likely to be lining up for the five furlong dash.

Who’s The Daddy IV

Back to the young bucks for this edition and a look at the current top first season sire, the aptly named, Majestic Missile. real speedster in has racing days the bay won six races at five furlongs whilst trained by William Haggas including the Cornwallis Stakes as a two-year-old amongst his three career Group Three victories.
Of his seven runners to date this season three have been winners not surprisingly all at 5-6 furlongs. The as yet unraced Regal Rocket, out of the unraced mare Frenzy, half sister to the Group One winning two-year-old and Oaks runner-up Shamshir, currently under the tutelage of Richard Hannon could be a two-year-old to keep an eye out for as the season progresses. The bay filly is entered for the Weatherbys Super Sprint at Newbury in July.

A Derby Great?

So the comparisons have started and arguments rage in racing pubs the length and breadth of the country. To my mind it was a great performance and for now that is all we know.
I have watched the race several times since yesterday afternoon and the way Workforce picks up when they enter the straight and sets out after, catches and passes At First Sight is very impressive. Okay this years three-year-olds might not be the best batch ever but the horse can only beat what is put in front of him and Workforce gave them one hell of a beating.
Is the colt a great? It should be remembered that Stoute is a master of getting his charges spot on  for the big one; both North Light and Kris Kin never won another race having taken the Epsom showpiece. It is far too early to say, a similar display in Ireland if the colt goes down that route will go some way to answering the question. I am really looking forward to seeing him take on the older generation in the King George and/or the Arc as that is the only way we are going to find out just how good he is.

Workforce - WOW!

Who said it was a below par Derby? On first impressions that was pretty damn good, a record time, seven lengths clear on only the colts third start, hats off too Stoute and Moore. Workforce is now best priced 6-1 for the Arc after the race; the connections of Fame And Glory might suddenly have a three-year-old to worry about and us punters have a summer of excitement ahead.

Derby Day

A very good Derby morning to you, and what a beautiful day for it. A couple of drinks in the sun in good company, all we need is Bullet Train to win and my day will be perfect.
It is very competitive racing at Epsom today but I think I will be taking a chance with Dubawi Gold in the Woodcote Stakes as the Dubawi two-year-old looked a nice prospect when winning his debut race at Ayr; I talked about Dubawi as a sire in 'Who's The Daddy' last month.
Have a great day.
Be lucky

Oaks Day

Snow Fairy won the Oaks with a battling display under a fine ride from Champion jockey Ryan Moore, he manoeuvred the Ed Dunlop trained filly through what looked a rough race to take his first Classic; the champ must have been delighted I am sure he even cracked a smile. Meeznah battled all the way to the line with Remember When back in third.
My fancy Aviate only briefly looked like getting involved in the finish before her run petered out and it only confirms my initial thoughts that 1m 2f is going to be her best distance. Henry Cecil mentioned after the race that Tom Queally thought the filly didn't stay.
In the Coronation Cup Sariska ran a fine race in second on ground that would have been far from ideal but was not quite good enough on the day to draw in Fame And Glory who will go to the top of any short list for the Arc, King George, Champion Stakes etc. We might not have to wait that long to see the colt again though as O’Brien did mention post race a possible tilt at the Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot is on the cards. Michael Bell mentioned the King George as a possible target for Sariska.

Epsom

We finally know the thoroughbred stars who shall be lining up at Epsom this weekend; it seems to me there have been more withdrawals over the last few days than at the cash machine next to my local bookies!
I am going to stick with Aviate in the Oaks. I was taken with the way the filly won the Musidora at York, as stated previously here, and although I think 1m 2f might be her ideal distance the turn of foot she showed should be good enough to take the race if she stays the extra two furlongs. Fingers crossed Tom Queally can get her settled into a nice rhythm and a good position and take advantage of her change of pace to kick clear in the final furlong. Henry Cecil has been making all the right noises during interviews in the run up to the race and the fact she is going to Epsom and not France is taken as a positive.
It could be a very good weekend for Warren Place as I like the look of Bullet Train in the Derby on Saturday. Winner of the Lingfield Derby Trial making virtually all before kicking clear around two out, I have a feeling the Sadlers Wells colt is still very much an improving sort and might be good enough to take the big one.
The Coronation Cup sees Fame And Glory taking on Sariska in a mouth watering contest. I am a fan of both and Fame And Glory was impressive at the Curragh but as it is Oaks day I think it might pay to stick with the ladies. As mentioned here at the time it was a nice seasonal reappearance from Sariska at York and she won a shade cosily. That would have blown away any cobwebs and at the odds (5-2 on Thursday) she will be my bet.
Be lucky

Who’s The Daddy III

Having burbled on recently about some of the new bucks in the stallion ranks with the Derby just around the corner it is time to take a look at two, if not exactly old boys, more established lotharios of the equine world.
Montjeu and Galileo were no slouches on the track and they have certainly been making their mark on the thoroughbred world since their retirements to stud. I should admit to a certain amount of bias here having had Montjeu in an Irish Derby and Arc double in 1999 and been the happy owner of several ante post vouchers for Galileo in the 2001 Derby.
Galileo boasts 23 worldwide G1 winners to date including Derby winner New Approach, Irish Derby winner Soldier Of Fortune and the unbeaten Teofilo as well as Rip Van Winkle and Lush Lashes. Montjeu has 29 worldwide G1 winners including Derby winners Authorised and Motivator as well as three Irish Derby winners in Fame and Glory, Frozen Fire and Hurricane run.
With the announcement of the withdrawal of long time ante-post favourite St Nicholas Abbey this morning (by Montjeu) our two boys still hold a strong hand in this years Derby being represented by: Jan Vermeer and Co-ordinated Cut (Montjeu) Midas Touch, Cape Blanco, At First Sight and Bright Horizon.(Galileo).