Morning all,
Quick run through of the card, not a full write up.
3.40 Hard to see past Shin A Vee at 4/1. Loves it 'round here and goes well fresh. Enniskillen ran a good race in the opener on Tuesday, but that seemed like a tough old race for him and that might have taken enough out of him.
4.20 Balnagon Boy (14/1) ran a cracker to win at Fairyhouse in November and again in January when he was second to Marlbrook by 3 and half lengths and may well have got closer if it wasn't for a pair of mistakes on the run in. He carries 21 lbs less today and that shift in the weights could help him enormously. He still has a tough task in a much better race, but I think he could run a good race. Any additional rain will help.
4.55 Definite Ruby (16/1) hasn't won in a while, but has been running creditably without challenging for honours, her best a 2nd at Cheltenham in October. She steps back down in trip and this sort of distance will be much more suited that the marathon trip she tried last time.
5.30 Vroum Vroum Mag (6/4) Intriguing race, but I have to go with Vroum Vroum. She was very good at Cheltenham and I don't think we've seen the depth of her abilities yet. She may need everything she's got over a trip that's probably on the short side and in open company, but as we saw with Annie Power, that's not necessarily a negative. My Tent Or Yours comes into contention if he can run to form, but he's had two hard races after a long break and despite Nicky's magic, you'd have to think this is one too far. Identity Thief would be my main danger here.
6.05 Thomas Hobson (9/1). He has a massive engine, but the main doubt is his jumping. He can be a bit wayward at times and he's not quite good enough to get away with that. However, if he can repeat his Warwick run on better ground here, he could be hard to beat. Big danger is Jer's Girl getting a lot of weight all round and A Toi Phil and Disko shouldn't be discounted either.
6.40 Taking a punt here on Koshari (3/1). By Walk in The Park, the same sire as Douvan, he makes his debut for Willie Mullins and could be absolutely anything. The fact that he makes his debut here is interesting in itself, but apart from Bello Conti, there's not too much opposition in my view. This could well be another potential star for the Mullins/Ricci combination.
7.10 Another day, another flat race and I don't really have a massive opinion on this. Some Neck and No Comment (both 7/2) are probably the most likely chances although neither has managed to get his head in front yet.
7.45 On The Fringe (10/11) has racked up a hattrick last year and is going for the repeat this year. Nina and Enda are proably the best in the game as this sort of race, so who am I to oppose them
Thursday results (as posted on Twitter @redgameracer)
3.40 Dollar And A Dream 9/1 16th
4.15 Bright New Dawn 12/1 1st
4.50 Quantativeeasing 9/2 1st
5.30 Alpha Des Obeaux 1/1 3rd
6.05 At Fishers Cross 16/1 8th
6.40 Douvan to beat Ttebbob 1st & 5th
7.15 Missy Tata 15/8 1st
7.45 Blast of Koeman 16/1 2nd
Wednesday results
3.40 Steamboat Bill 14/1 10th
4.20 Balko Des Flos 11/2 7th
4.55 Acapella Bourgeois 5/1 4th
5.30 Cue Card 8/13 4th
6.05 Castello Sforza 9/1 NR
6.40 Colms Dream 13/2 2nd
7.15 Forge Meadow 5/1 2nd
Friday 29 April 2016
Tuesday 26 April 2016
27-04 Punchestown Day Two
Evening all,
Decent results for day one, although the short price favs got overturned. Probably plenty more surprises abound, so keep an eye on short prices.
We start off with a very open handicap race at 3.40 and you could make a case for a number of these, but I'm going to have a go at Steamboat Bill. He won well enough last time out and his trainer Gordon Elliot has been in decent form. He knows how to get one ready for a handicap and the selection could well have a winning debut in a tough race.
Another hurdles race follows at 4.20 and Supasundae appears the hot favourite. I fancied him to run a big race in the Supreme, but he disappointed that time and I'm not sure this step up in trip will help him to be seen in a better light. Alternatives aplenty further down the betting with Woodland Opera and Hard to Call both having form in these conditions, but the one I like most would be Balko Des Flos. He won over C&D back in January and could well repeat that performance on a bigger stage.
Three miles Novice hurdle next and Bellshill will be the hot favourite. He's had a tough old season though and despite battling back to claim second at Aintree, I'd have to swerve him. It's a wide open race really, with the likes of General Principle, Gangster and Emerging Force, but the one I'm going to pick here is Acapella Bourgeois. He has won three out of his last four races and I think he may well grab another here.
The Punchestown Gold Cup could be the crown on the work of Colin Tizzard and Cue Card this season. He could bottom out here having had a hard season, but I don't think that'll happen. Tizzard's charge has been rejuvenated this season and unless there's a deluge of rain in the run up to this, I can't see past him. Djakadam, Don Poli and Road To Riches are the main dangers, but don't rule out the others down the betting at bigger prices. If I'd have to pick one of them to follow home Cue Card, it would be Road to Riches. This is a better trip for him and conditions will be more to his liking.
Another Bumper next (like we haven't had any of those yet!). It should be a cracking race with some highly likeable types lining up, Moon Racer among them. He could still be anything, but hasn't been seen for over a year and his readiness has to be taken on trust. Bacardys and Battleford have both ran in the bumpers at Aintree and Cheltenham and could well be running out of steam, so my preference goes to Castello Sforza. He wasn't far away in the Cheltenham bumper and swerved Aintree in favour of this. That could well stand him in good stead, but there's plenty here with a chance.
A handicap chase is our penultimate race and it's another open contest. However, I have to go with the favourite here, Colms Dream. He's been in top form all season, having won over C&D and he has the five lbs claim of Donagh Meyler to go with him. He has had a long season, but he can get one more big win on the board before a well deserved summer break.
Finally, we have a mares bumper to round things off. For me, this one is between the top four in the market. Augusta Kate, The Nipper, Forge Meadow and Copper Kay. Augusta Kate probably has the best form, having come second in the Aintree equivalent, but she's perhaps running too soon since and I'd rather pick the unexposed Forge Meadow for Jessie Harrington. She has terrific record in bumpers and this one could well be a very good mare for the Harrington team.
Wednesday's selections
3.40 Steamboat Bill 14/1
4.20 Balko Des Flos 11/2
4.55 Acapella Bourgeois 5/1
5.30 Cue Card 8/13
6.05 Castello Sforza 9/1
6.40 Colms Dream 13/2
7.15 Forge Meadow 5/1
Tuesday's Results:
3.40 Wish Ye Didn't 6/4 Won
4.20 Yorkhill 1/2 to beat Petit Mouchoir 11/2 4th & 2nd
4.55 Automated 7/1 & Art of Payroll 14/1 8th & 9th
5.30 Vautour no bet 2nd
6.05 Moulin A Vent 12/1 3rd
6.40 Zabana 5/1, Sub Lieutentant 28/1 Won & 3rd
7.15 Art of Supremacy 8/1 17th
Decent results for day one, although the short price favs got overturned. Probably plenty more surprises abound, so keep an eye on short prices.
We start off with a very open handicap race at 3.40 and you could make a case for a number of these, but I'm going to have a go at Steamboat Bill. He won well enough last time out and his trainer Gordon Elliot has been in decent form. He knows how to get one ready for a handicap and the selection could well have a winning debut in a tough race.
Another hurdles race follows at 4.20 and Supasundae appears the hot favourite. I fancied him to run a big race in the Supreme, but he disappointed that time and I'm not sure this step up in trip will help him to be seen in a better light. Alternatives aplenty further down the betting with Woodland Opera and Hard to Call both having form in these conditions, but the one I like most would be Balko Des Flos. He won over C&D back in January and could well repeat that performance on a bigger stage.
Three miles Novice hurdle next and Bellshill will be the hot favourite. He's had a tough old season though and despite battling back to claim second at Aintree, I'd have to swerve him. It's a wide open race really, with the likes of General Principle, Gangster and Emerging Force, but the one I'm going to pick here is Acapella Bourgeois. He has won three out of his last four races and I think he may well grab another here.
The Punchestown Gold Cup could be the crown on the work of Colin Tizzard and Cue Card this season. He could bottom out here having had a hard season, but I don't think that'll happen. Tizzard's charge has been rejuvenated this season and unless there's a deluge of rain in the run up to this, I can't see past him. Djakadam, Don Poli and Road To Riches are the main dangers, but don't rule out the others down the betting at bigger prices. If I'd have to pick one of them to follow home Cue Card, it would be Road to Riches. This is a better trip for him and conditions will be more to his liking.
Another Bumper next (like we haven't had any of those yet!). It should be a cracking race with some highly likeable types lining up, Moon Racer among them. He could still be anything, but hasn't been seen for over a year and his readiness has to be taken on trust. Bacardys and Battleford have both ran in the bumpers at Aintree and Cheltenham and could well be running out of steam, so my preference goes to Castello Sforza. He wasn't far away in the Cheltenham bumper and swerved Aintree in favour of this. That could well stand him in good stead, but there's plenty here with a chance.
A handicap chase is our penultimate race and it's another open contest. However, I have to go with the favourite here, Colms Dream. He's been in top form all season, having won over C&D and he has the five lbs claim of Donagh Meyler to go with him. He has had a long season, but he can get one more big win on the board before a well deserved summer break.
Finally, we have a mares bumper to round things off. For me, this one is between the top four in the market. Augusta Kate, The Nipper, Forge Meadow and Copper Kay. Augusta Kate probably has the best form, having come second in the Aintree equivalent, but she's perhaps running too soon since and I'd rather pick the unexposed Forge Meadow for Jessie Harrington. She has terrific record in bumpers and this one could well be a very good mare for the Harrington team.
Wednesday's selections
3.40 Steamboat Bill 14/1
4.20 Balko Des Flos 11/2
4.55 Acapella Bourgeois 5/1
5.30 Cue Card 8/13
6.05 Castello Sforza 9/1
6.40 Colms Dream 13/2
7.15 Forge Meadow 5/1
Tuesday's Results:
3.40 Wish Ye Didn't 6/4 Won
4.20 Yorkhill 1/2 to beat Petit Mouchoir 11/2 4th & 2nd
4.55 Automated 7/1 & Art of Payroll 14/1 8th & 9th
5.30 Vautour no bet 2nd
6.05 Moulin A Vent 12/1 3rd
6.40 Zabana 5/1, Sub Lieutentant 28/1 Won & 3rd
7.15 Art of Supremacy 8/1 17th
26-04 Punchestown Day One
Morning all,
the last throes of the National Hunt season today as the five-day Punchestown Festival brings proceedings to a close. Of course, there will be some summer jumping, but the big guns will go out to grass for the summer, rest on their laurels and we'll see them fit and ready to go again come the autumn. We have a good day in prospect for day one, with three Grade One races, including the Punchestown Champion Chase.
But we start matters with the Memorial Chase over three miles over the banks. That immediately makes you think Enda Bolger & Nina Carberry and they team up again with last year's winner Wish Ye Didnt. Bolger also runs Strangford Lough and Be Positive. Of the three of them, I'd happily swerve the latter as he's been off the track since 2014 and I'm reluctant to back a horse that has been away for that long. The other two both have great chances, with Strangford Lough having the other to jockey on board in Jamie Codd. Of the outsiders, Enniskillen and Mia's Milan well do well, but they'll have a tough task dislodging Bolger from his top spot in this race. I'll go with the proven form of Wish Ye Didn't to keep Bolger's excellent record going.
Next we go to the Novice Hurdle over two miles, the first of our Grade ones. This should be all about Yorkhill. He raced very keenly last time out at Aintree, practically pulling himself to the front and nearly doing too much, but he held on to win from Le Prezien. He was far more impressive at the festival under a patient ride from Ruby Walsh and the master has recovered in time from a wrist fracture to take the reigns again. He remains unbeaten and should really be too good for these even over the shorter trip of two miles. The trick is then to pick the one that will follow him home. Petit Mouchoir was an excellent second behind Buveur D'Air at Aintree and if ridden with the same prominent tactics should have a good chance to do the same here. Charbel ran well in the Supreme, but ultimately faded into fifth and would need to have improved to serve it up.
Next up is a two mile handicap hurdle and this is a typical open contest. A lot of these will have chances, but I'm going to go with Automated. He was a good second to Ivan Grozny at Aintree, but well clear of the rest of the field. Jack Kennedy claims three and that could well be a decisive factor. Another I like in this big field of 21 is Art of Payroll. Donagh Meyler is another conditional who has been going well this season and he claims five off Sandra Hughes' charge. They're both a decent price (7/1 & 14/1 best prices) and with four places to aim for there's value there.
Next to the race I'm most looking forward to, the Champion Chase. This one is all about Vautour for me. My favourite horse in training and he has the potential to be an all-time great. He was an uncharacteristic faller last time out at Aintree when bowling along in front. His drop in trip over two miles could be a sign of things to come next year and it will be interesting to see how he goes, but for all intents and purposes, this is not a betting race for me. Sit back and enjoy.
The Land Rover Bumper next and Jenkins is the hot favourite after Nicky Henderson booked Paddy Mullins to ride. He is a master of these sort of races, but it wouldn't surprise me if the favourite got overturned here. There's a few useful sorts in here and at the prices, I'm happy to chance the likes of Hardline or Moulin A Vent. Hardline does wear a hood on debut, which is not something I'm fond off, but he made a winning point debut and Gordon Elliot is in good form. Moulin A Vent makes his debut for Noel Meade under Nina Carberry and he is related to a few decent sorts and could well spring a surprise.
The final Grade One of the day is the three mile Novice Chase and this is a pretty open contest. Zabana and Davy Russell will be keen to take revenge for their shambles at the start of the JLT when the jockey was unseated taking a turn. He was tipped up by a few that day and could well gain revenge here. Outlander took a tumble in the same race before being upstaged by Kylemore Lough at Fairyhouse ten days later. That race may well have come too soon and he could bounce back to form. Rule The World comes back from his win in the National to join novice company once more, but this is a completely different test and I don't think he'll make it two from two. Henryville needs to make a big step up in grade in order to make his presence felt and although he arrives here fresh, it may well be too tough an ask. Southfield Royale steps back down in trip from his fourth in the National Hunt Chase over four miles, but he has form over this trip, having finished second to Tea for Two at Christmas. As an outsider, I wouldn't be surprised to see a big run from Sub Lieutentant. He won a Grade 3 contest over 2 and a half miles at Naas in heavy ground and he seems built for a stamina test. At a big price, I woulnd't put anyone off. As for the winner, I reckon Zabana may well get his compensation and claim the spoils.
A flat race to end the day is not my cup of tea, but if I'd have to pick one then on form, Art of Supremacy looks good. He finished well in his debut race and could have progressed from that. The other obvious choice would be the Mullins debutant from France, but they can be hit as often as miss, so I'll swerve him.
3.40 Wish Ye Didn't 6/4
4.20 Yorkhill 1/2 to beat Petit Mouchoir 11/2
4.55 Automated 7/1 & Art of Payroll 14/1
5.30 Vautour no bet
6.05 Moulin A Vent 12/1
6.40 Zabana 5/1, Sub Lieutentant 28/1
7.15 Art of Supremacy 8/1
the last throes of the National Hunt season today as the five-day Punchestown Festival brings proceedings to a close. Of course, there will be some summer jumping, but the big guns will go out to grass for the summer, rest on their laurels and we'll see them fit and ready to go again come the autumn. We have a good day in prospect for day one, with three Grade One races, including the Punchestown Champion Chase.
But we start matters with the Memorial Chase over three miles over the banks. That immediately makes you think Enda Bolger & Nina Carberry and they team up again with last year's winner Wish Ye Didnt. Bolger also runs Strangford Lough and Be Positive. Of the three of them, I'd happily swerve the latter as he's been off the track since 2014 and I'm reluctant to back a horse that has been away for that long. The other two both have great chances, with Strangford Lough having the other to jockey on board in Jamie Codd. Of the outsiders, Enniskillen and Mia's Milan well do well, but they'll have a tough task dislodging Bolger from his top spot in this race. I'll go with the proven form of Wish Ye Didn't to keep Bolger's excellent record going.
Next we go to the Novice Hurdle over two miles, the first of our Grade ones. This should be all about Yorkhill. He raced very keenly last time out at Aintree, practically pulling himself to the front and nearly doing too much, but he held on to win from Le Prezien. He was far more impressive at the festival under a patient ride from Ruby Walsh and the master has recovered in time from a wrist fracture to take the reigns again. He remains unbeaten and should really be too good for these even over the shorter trip of two miles. The trick is then to pick the one that will follow him home. Petit Mouchoir was an excellent second behind Buveur D'Air at Aintree and if ridden with the same prominent tactics should have a good chance to do the same here. Charbel ran well in the Supreme, but ultimately faded into fifth and would need to have improved to serve it up.
Next up is a two mile handicap hurdle and this is a typical open contest. A lot of these will have chances, but I'm going to go with Automated. He was a good second to Ivan Grozny at Aintree, but well clear of the rest of the field. Jack Kennedy claims three and that could well be a decisive factor. Another I like in this big field of 21 is Art of Payroll. Donagh Meyler is another conditional who has been going well this season and he claims five off Sandra Hughes' charge. They're both a decent price (7/1 & 14/1 best prices) and with four places to aim for there's value there.
Next to the race I'm most looking forward to, the Champion Chase. This one is all about Vautour for me. My favourite horse in training and he has the potential to be an all-time great. He was an uncharacteristic faller last time out at Aintree when bowling along in front. His drop in trip over two miles could be a sign of things to come next year and it will be interesting to see how he goes, but for all intents and purposes, this is not a betting race for me. Sit back and enjoy.
The Land Rover Bumper next and Jenkins is the hot favourite after Nicky Henderson booked Paddy Mullins to ride. He is a master of these sort of races, but it wouldn't surprise me if the favourite got overturned here. There's a few useful sorts in here and at the prices, I'm happy to chance the likes of Hardline or Moulin A Vent. Hardline does wear a hood on debut, which is not something I'm fond off, but he made a winning point debut and Gordon Elliot is in good form. Moulin A Vent makes his debut for Noel Meade under Nina Carberry and he is related to a few decent sorts and could well spring a surprise.
The final Grade One of the day is the three mile Novice Chase and this is a pretty open contest. Zabana and Davy Russell will be keen to take revenge for their shambles at the start of the JLT when the jockey was unseated taking a turn. He was tipped up by a few that day and could well gain revenge here. Outlander took a tumble in the same race before being upstaged by Kylemore Lough at Fairyhouse ten days later. That race may well have come too soon and he could bounce back to form. Rule The World comes back from his win in the National to join novice company once more, but this is a completely different test and I don't think he'll make it two from two. Henryville needs to make a big step up in grade in order to make his presence felt and although he arrives here fresh, it may well be too tough an ask. Southfield Royale steps back down in trip from his fourth in the National Hunt Chase over four miles, but he has form over this trip, having finished second to Tea for Two at Christmas. As an outsider, I wouldn't be surprised to see a big run from Sub Lieutentant. He won a Grade 3 contest over 2 and a half miles at Naas in heavy ground and he seems built for a stamina test. At a big price, I woulnd't put anyone off. As for the winner, I reckon Zabana may well get his compensation and claim the spoils.
A flat race to end the day is not my cup of tea, but if I'd have to pick one then on form, Art of Supremacy looks good. He finished well in his debut race and could have progressed from that. The other obvious choice would be the Mullins debutant from France, but they can be hit as often as miss, so I'll swerve him.
3.40 Wish Ye Didn't 6/4
4.20 Yorkhill 1/2 to beat Petit Mouchoir 11/2
4.55 Automated 7/1 & Art of Payroll 14/1
5.30 Vautour no bet
6.05 Moulin A Vent 12/1
6.40 Zabana 5/1, Sub Lieutentant 28/1
7.15 Art of Supremacy 8/1
Friday 22 April 2016
23-04 Sandown Preview
Evening all,
Blog with a bit of a difference tonight as I look just to one card tomorrow, the final jumps meeting of the year at Sandown. There's plenty at stake, with a Listed Hurdle, a Grade 3 Handicap, and Grade 1 and 2 races as well as the Trainer's Championship that will be decided. I think Paul Nicholls may just hang onto his title, but it's been a phenomenal effort by Willie Mullins, considering he hasn't really targeted the title until the Aintree meeting.
Over to the racing though and we start with the Juvenile Handicap Hurdle over two miles. Both title chasers have a runner each with Voix de Reve lining up for Mullins and Tommy Silver for Nicholls. The former was going very well in the Fred Winter prior coming to grief and could well have won that race but for his fall at the last. He has to contend with top weight though and although David Mullins takes three off, that could well be enough to scupper his bid for victory. Nicholls' runner lined up in the Triumph instead, but couldn't make much of an impact against the runaway winner. He was sixteen lengths behind at the finish, but had been showing plenty of potential at Newbury and Musselburgh prior to that. Ashoka, Duke Street and Darebin are all runners with place claims. The first lines up for the in-form Skelton team and makes his handicap bow. Duke Street did well to romp away with the spoils over a slightly longer trip at Newbury while the Darebin is the only C&D winner in the field for Gary Moore. If I had to pick one though, it would be Wolf of Windlesham. He won twice over hurdles in the autumn, both times at a big price, before being tailed off in heavy ground at Cheltenham. He made a winning reappearance on the all-weather subsequently and the return to good ground will stand him in good stead. At 11/1, he is the value pick for me.
We go on to the Oaksey Chase, a Grade two over two miles and six furlongs. Two here for Mullins, including hot favourite Valseur Lido. Frankly, I struggle to see him beaten here. He was second to the rampant Vautour in the Ryanair and comes here incredibly well weighted compared to his rivals. Mullins other runner Ballycasey has not turned out the horse that many had hoped and I don't think he'll challenge for honours here. Paul Nicholls has three in the race and his best chance lies with Saphir du Rheu. Once touted as a rising star, he has disappointed this season, but perhaps first time blinkers can spark some improvement. I don't think he'll beat Valseur Lido though. Of the other runners, Menorah will appreciate the better ground and he's likely been targeted at this race with champion jockey Richard Johnson on board.
Next to the Grade One Celebration Chase and it looks to be a fascinating rematch of the Champion Chase between Sprinter Sacre and Un de Sceaux. Both have marks against rather than for them in this race. We'll start with the public's hero, Sprinter Sacre. He seems best caught fresh these days, but the going seems to be likely more in his favour than his main market rival's. Sprinter also loves Cheltenham more than anywhere as he excels up that hill. Mullins will hope that Un De Sceaux can defy the better ground and hopefully get an easy lead. The absence of Special Tiara is a big boost in that sense. Both horses are excellent jumpers although UDS tends to be a risky jumper, but if it comes off here, he could well claim the spoils. If these two stay upright though, the rest of the field (including three Nicholls horses) are fighting for third at best. I'm going to go for Un De Sceaux, despite the conditions as I think he'll be better suited by the quick jumps down the back straight and the likely lead.
Both men have runners in the most valuable race of the day, the Bet365 Gold Cup, with Nicholls' Southfield Theatre at the top of the market. He's been aimed at this race and is sure to give a good account. It's an incredibly open race though, but I'm going to take two against the field. I like the chances of Theatre Guide. He ran a great race in the BetBright chase, before falling at the festival, but is hardy sort and will be suited by this distance. He's had a great season, the Tizzard yard is still flying and Paddy Brennan has enjoyed some great days as well. The other one is a bit of an ambitious effort, but I think Oscar Rock can go well. He's a big price and does have his stamina to prove over this trip, but Malcolm Jefferson has his yard in good form and this is his only runner on the card. At 33/1, I'm happy to stick a quid each way on and see how he goes.
The listed hurdle is all about Mullins again. Vroum Vroum Mag is a very classy mare and is still unbeaten for her trainer. She's a short price, but on the back of her impressive Cheltenham win, I think that's justified. She takes on the boys for the first time, but this is probably her optimum trip and I wouldn't be surprised if she dealt with these. Ptit Zig is one of three Nicholls runners and makes appeal on his second in the Cleeve Hurdle behind the rampant Thistlecrack. That effort came after losing his way a bit over fences, but he hasn't won a hurldes race in a long while and that would be a concern. Vaniteux looked set for second in the Arkle before falling, but he's charting new territory over this distance and I think he is better of over a shorter trip.
Nicholls seems to hold all the cards in the Novice chase, with the top two in the betting, Calipto and Some Buckle. Of the two, the latter would have my preference after his good win last time out and would probably be my selection to claw some cash back for Nicholls. Don't rule out C&D winner Antony at a big price though. Gary Moore's charge was an impressive winner back in November and returns here having had a pipe opener at Kempton.
Finally the crap shoot of a Handicap Hurdle with twenty runners to sort out. Three for Mullins and four for Nicholls and all seven could well contest the finish. Mullins best hope could well lie with handicap debutant Bellow Mome. He is seeking a hattrick under Paul Townend and could have anything in hand on his debut in this sort of race. Red Hanrahan is probably Nicholls best bet, as I don't rate Qualando. But if I'm picking a couple against the field, I'm once again putting my faith in Paddy & Colin. Royal Vacation is also chasing a hattrick with his defeats this season coming against the likes of Yanworth & Champers On Ice. He seems fairly weighted to compete and I'd like to see the connections finish their season with another race win. At a price though, I can't rule out Mad Jack Mytton. I've been putting him up in handicap hurdles all season and I'm going to give him one more poke. He has the ability and his finishes of 00U don't tell the full story of his runs. He;s caught the eye on occasions and Jonjo O'Neill is coming right at this time of year. Richard Johnson has been booked and it would be great for the champ to end with a winner.
2.20 Wolf of Windlesham 11/1
2.55 Valseur Lido 5/6
3.35 Un de Sceaux 6/4
4.10 Theatre Guide 16/1, Oscar Rock 33/1
4.45 Vroum Vroum Mag 8/11
5.20 Some Buckle 11/2
5.55 Royal Vacation 14/1, Mad Jack Mytton 20/1
Blog with a bit of a difference tonight as I look just to one card tomorrow, the final jumps meeting of the year at Sandown. There's plenty at stake, with a Listed Hurdle, a Grade 3 Handicap, and Grade 1 and 2 races as well as the Trainer's Championship that will be decided. I think Paul Nicholls may just hang onto his title, but it's been a phenomenal effort by Willie Mullins, considering he hasn't really targeted the title until the Aintree meeting.
Over to the racing though and we start with the Juvenile Handicap Hurdle over two miles. Both title chasers have a runner each with Voix de Reve lining up for Mullins and Tommy Silver for Nicholls. The former was going very well in the Fred Winter prior coming to grief and could well have won that race but for his fall at the last. He has to contend with top weight though and although David Mullins takes three off, that could well be enough to scupper his bid for victory. Nicholls' runner lined up in the Triumph instead, but couldn't make much of an impact against the runaway winner. He was sixteen lengths behind at the finish, but had been showing plenty of potential at Newbury and Musselburgh prior to that. Ashoka, Duke Street and Darebin are all runners with place claims. The first lines up for the in-form Skelton team and makes his handicap bow. Duke Street did well to romp away with the spoils over a slightly longer trip at Newbury while the Darebin is the only C&D winner in the field for Gary Moore. If I had to pick one though, it would be Wolf of Windlesham. He won twice over hurdles in the autumn, both times at a big price, before being tailed off in heavy ground at Cheltenham. He made a winning reappearance on the all-weather subsequently and the return to good ground will stand him in good stead. At 11/1, he is the value pick for me.
We go on to the Oaksey Chase, a Grade two over two miles and six furlongs. Two here for Mullins, including hot favourite Valseur Lido. Frankly, I struggle to see him beaten here. He was second to the rampant Vautour in the Ryanair and comes here incredibly well weighted compared to his rivals. Mullins other runner Ballycasey has not turned out the horse that many had hoped and I don't think he'll challenge for honours here. Paul Nicholls has three in the race and his best chance lies with Saphir du Rheu. Once touted as a rising star, he has disappointed this season, but perhaps first time blinkers can spark some improvement. I don't think he'll beat Valseur Lido though. Of the other runners, Menorah will appreciate the better ground and he's likely been targeted at this race with champion jockey Richard Johnson on board.
Next to the Grade One Celebration Chase and it looks to be a fascinating rematch of the Champion Chase between Sprinter Sacre and Un de Sceaux. Both have marks against rather than for them in this race. We'll start with the public's hero, Sprinter Sacre. He seems best caught fresh these days, but the going seems to be likely more in his favour than his main market rival's. Sprinter also loves Cheltenham more than anywhere as he excels up that hill. Mullins will hope that Un De Sceaux can defy the better ground and hopefully get an easy lead. The absence of Special Tiara is a big boost in that sense. Both horses are excellent jumpers although UDS tends to be a risky jumper, but if it comes off here, he could well claim the spoils. If these two stay upright though, the rest of the field (including three Nicholls horses) are fighting for third at best. I'm going to go for Un De Sceaux, despite the conditions as I think he'll be better suited by the quick jumps down the back straight and the likely lead.
Both men have runners in the most valuable race of the day, the Bet365 Gold Cup, with Nicholls' Southfield Theatre at the top of the market. He's been aimed at this race and is sure to give a good account. It's an incredibly open race though, but I'm going to take two against the field. I like the chances of Theatre Guide. He ran a great race in the BetBright chase, before falling at the festival, but is hardy sort and will be suited by this distance. He's had a great season, the Tizzard yard is still flying and Paddy Brennan has enjoyed some great days as well. The other one is a bit of an ambitious effort, but I think Oscar Rock can go well. He's a big price and does have his stamina to prove over this trip, but Malcolm Jefferson has his yard in good form and this is his only runner on the card. At 33/1, I'm happy to stick a quid each way on and see how he goes.
The listed hurdle is all about Mullins again. Vroum Vroum Mag is a very classy mare and is still unbeaten for her trainer. She's a short price, but on the back of her impressive Cheltenham win, I think that's justified. She takes on the boys for the first time, but this is probably her optimum trip and I wouldn't be surprised if she dealt with these. Ptit Zig is one of three Nicholls runners and makes appeal on his second in the Cleeve Hurdle behind the rampant Thistlecrack. That effort came after losing his way a bit over fences, but he hasn't won a hurldes race in a long while and that would be a concern. Vaniteux looked set for second in the Arkle before falling, but he's charting new territory over this distance and I think he is better of over a shorter trip.
Nicholls seems to hold all the cards in the Novice chase, with the top two in the betting, Calipto and Some Buckle. Of the two, the latter would have my preference after his good win last time out and would probably be my selection to claw some cash back for Nicholls. Don't rule out C&D winner Antony at a big price though. Gary Moore's charge was an impressive winner back in November and returns here having had a pipe opener at Kempton.
Finally the crap shoot of a Handicap Hurdle with twenty runners to sort out. Three for Mullins and four for Nicholls and all seven could well contest the finish. Mullins best hope could well lie with handicap debutant Bellow Mome. He is seeking a hattrick under Paul Townend and could have anything in hand on his debut in this sort of race. Red Hanrahan is probably Nicholls best bet, as I don't rate Qualando. But if I'm picking a couple against the field, I'm once again putting my faith in Paddy & Colin. Royal Vacation is also chasing a hattrick with his defeats this season coming against the likes of Yanworth & Champers On Ice. He seems fairly weighted to compete and I'd like to see the connections finish their season with another race win. At a price though, I can't rule out Mad Jack Mytton. I've been putting him up in handicap hurdles all season and I'm going to give him one more poke. He has the ability and his finishes of 00U don't tell the full story of his runs. He;s caught the eye on occasions and Jonjo O'Neill is coming right at this time of year. Richard Johnson has been booked and it would be great for the champ to end with a winner.
2.20 Wolf of Windlesham 11/1
2.55 Valseur Lido 5/6
3.35 Un de Sceaux 6/4
4.10 Theatre Guide 16/1, Oscar Rock 33/1
4.45 Vroum Vroum Mag 8/11
5.20 Some Buckle 11/2
5.55 Royal Vacation 14/1, Mad Jack Mytton 20/1
Reds Racing Tips 22-04
Morning all,
A disappointing day yesterday with a 27 point loss, giving back nearly all our profit from the day before. No luck with the best three either, so we are back to the drawing board today.
We start the best three at Chepstow's evening meeting with Ascotdeux Nellerie in the second race. Bailey & Bass have been in great form and the selection could well give Nicholls' title chasing efforts in the form of Simon Squirrel something to think about here. The selection should enjoy the return to better ground and at the price is my pick.
The Next Best today comes from a very interesting meeting at Sandown. Taqaareed is well related, a full sister to Oaks & King George winner Taghrooda by Sea the Stars and she is a very interesting debutant for John Gosden and Paul Hanagan. I'm surprised to see her as big as 7/1 as she seems to have all the pedigree to give a good showing.
Finally, to Doncaster, where I like Oak Bluffs in the second race for Richard Fahey. Jack Garrity takes the ride and this gelding has been running well on the all-weather this season without really making his mark. He was a winner on turf back in September though and I fancy he will enjoy the switch back to grass.
22-04
Sandown
1.20 Chief Whip 4/1
1.50 Western Hymn 8/11
2.20 Algometer 16/1
2.55 Adaay 7/1
3.30 Sign Of The Kodiac 8/1
4.05 Atone 3/1
4.35 Taqaareed 7/1 NB
5.05 Celebration Day 22/1
Doncaster
1.40 Colour My World 11/2
2.10 Oak Bluffs 7/1 3B
2.45 Zabeel Princess 5/1
3.20 Spiritoftomintoul 11/2
3.55 Quick March 10/1
4.25 Dream Bounty 7/2
4.55 Bashiba 12/1
5.25 Red Verdon 11/1
Perth
2.00 Myztique 11/10
2.30 Parsnip Pete 9/2
3.05 Baysbrown 9/2
3.40 Pair of Jacks 11/4
4.15 Winged Crusader 13/2
4.45 Andhaar 14/1
5.15 Mr Monochrome 3/1
Chepstow
4.30 Fiona Mac Cul 11/2
5.00 Ascotdeux Nellerie 7/2 NAP
5.35 Grams And Ounces 10/1
6.05 Master of The Game 12/1
6.35 Jully Les Buxy 15/2
7.05 Repeat Business 9/2
7.35 Mission Complete 3/1
8.05 Denboy 33/1
Plumpton
4.50 Zante 11/2
5.20 Ballycoe 10/11
5.50 Daliance 9/1
6.20 Bawden Rocks 11/2
6.50 Onwiththeparty 4/1
7.20 Killabraher Cross 2/1
7.50 Brise Coeur 14/1
Kilbeggan
5.10 Crocodile Dundee 6/1
5.40 Golden Poet 22/1
6.10 Urban Dusk 8/1
6.40 Sarah Battle 7/1
7.10 Valyssa Monterg 1/1
7.40 Fr Humphrey 20/1
8.10 Kolumbus 5/2
Dundalk
6.00 Diamond Fields 4/1
6.30 Strategic Heights 11/2
7.00 Attenzione 3/1
7.30 Housesofparliament 8/11
8.00 Mulligatawny 5/1
8.30 Shark Island 8/1
9.00 Koybig 11/1
A disappointing day yesterday with a 27 point loss, giving back nearly all our profit from the day before. No luck with the best three either, so we are back to the drawing board today.
We start the best three at Chepstow's evening meeting with Ascotdeux Nellerie in the second race. Bailey & Bass have been in great form and the selection could well give Nicholls' title chasing efforts in the form of Simon Squirrel something to think about here. The selection should enjoy the return to better ground and at the price is my pick.
The Next Best today comes from a very interesting meeting at Sandown. Taqaareed is well related, a full sister to Oaks & King George winner Taghrooda by Sea the Stars and she is a very interesting debutant for John Gosden and Paul Hanagan. I'm surprised to see her as big as 7/1 as she seems to have all the pedigree to give a good showing.
Finally, to Doncaster, where I like Oak Bluffs in the second race for Richard Fahey. Jack Garrity takes the ride and this gelding has been running well on the all-weather this season without really making his mark. He was a winner on turf back in September though and I fancy he will enjoy the switch back to grass.
22-04
Sandown
1.20 Chief Whip 4/1
1.50 Western Hymn 8/11
2.20 Algometer 16/1
2.55 Adaay 7/1
3.30 Sign Of The Kodiac 8/1
4.05 Atone 3/1
4.35 Taqaareed 7/1 NB
5.05 Celebration Day 22/1
Doncaster
1.40 Colour My World 11/2
2.10 Oak Bluffs 7/1 3B
2.45 Zabeel Princess 5/1
3.20 Spiritoftomintoul 11/2
3.55 Quick March 10/1
4.25 Dream Bounty 7/2
4.55 Bashiba 12/1
5.25 Red Verdon 11/1
Perth
2.00 Myztique 11/10
2.30 Parsnip Pete 9/2
3.05 Baysbrown 9/2
3.40 Pair of Jacks 11/4
4.15 Winged Crusader 13/2
4.45 Andhaar 14/1
5.15 Mr Monochrome 3/1
Chepstow
4.30 Fiona Mac Cul 11/2
5.00 Ascotdeux Nellerie 7/2 NAP
5.35 Grams And Ounces 10/1
6.05 Master of The Game 12/1
6.35 Jully Les Buxy 15/2
7.05 Repeat Business 9/2
7.35 Mission Complete 3/1
8.05 Denboy 33/1
Plumpton
4.50 Zante 11/2
5.20 Ballycoe 10/11
5.50 Daliance 9/1
6.20 Bawden Rocks 11/2
6.50 Onwiththeparty 4/1
7.20 Killabraher Cross 2/1
7.50 Brise Coeur 14/1
Kilbeggan
5.10 Crocodile Dundee 6/1
5.40 Golden Poet 22/1
6.10 Urban Dusk 8/1
6.40 Sarah Battle 7/1
7.10 Valyssa Monterg 1/1
7.40 Fr Humphrey 20/1
8.10 Kolumbus 5/2
Dundalk
6.00 Diamond Fields 4/1
6.30 Strategic Heights 11/2
7.00 Attenzione 3/1
7.30 Housesofparliament 8/11
8.00 Mulligatawny 5/1
8.30 Shark Island 8/1
9.00 Koybig 11/1
Thursday 21 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 21-04
Morning all,
A great day yesterday with 30 points profit and another busy day today. Haven't got 'round to doing the evening cards yet, but expect them to be added to the bottom of here later on in the day.
A clean sweep for the best three yesterday and let's hope we can repeat that today. I've only got two so far, so I'll add the 3B after I've done the evening cards.
The NAP today has to be Blacklister for Mick Channon. He's been hard to win with, only once from sixteen, but he always goes well, with seven places to go with that. Ryan Moore is an eye-catching jockey booking and one that speaks of confidence from connections. He gets my vote as well.
For the NB, we go far up North to Perth where Malcolm Jefferson runs Sharpasaknife. Followers of the blog will recognise him as a 16/1 winner I put up on his debut and he's won again since at Haydock. He encounters similar conditions today and has Paddy Brennan on board to do the steering in the absence of Brian Hughes. He's still lightly raced and open to some more improvement, which will hopefully be on show today
21-04
Warwick
1.40 Sporting Milan 9/2
2.10 El Bandit 2/1
2.40 Dazinski 11/1
3.10 Mustmeetalady 5/1
3.40 Jayo Time 11/2
4.10 Conas Taoi 9/4
4.40 Clondaw Cracker 9/1
5.15 Our Mick 11/1
Beverly
1.50 Zig Zag Girl 7/1
2.20 Blacklister 5/2 NAP
2.50 Arab Poet 6/4
3.20 Donna Graciosa 8/1
3.50 Nietzsche 2/5
4.20 Jaqbequick 10/3
4.50 Carenot 8/15
Perth
2.00 Townshend 4/6
2.30 Abyaat 7/1
3.00 Sharpasaknife 11/4 NB Tracker
3.30 Valseur Du Granval 9/2
4.00 Tennis Cap 10/3
4.30 Rossini's Dancer 8/1
5.05 Impulsive American 9/4
Tipperary
4.35 Istan 3/1
5.10 Bridgebrook 9/1
5.40 Oor Jock 9/1
6.10 Lune De Sable 8/1
6.40 Ancient Sands 11/8
7.10 Duke Cass 6/1
7.40 Captain Bizarro 4/1
8.10 Edvardo 9/1
Market Rasen
4.45 Querry Horse 10/11
5.20 Quiet Candid 9/2
5.50 Money For Nothing 15/2
6.20 Mwaleshi 8/1
6.50 Running Wolf 16/1
7.20 Sgt Bull Berry 9/2
7.50 Polly's Pursuit 9/4
Exeter
4.55 Chase End Charlie 5/2
5.30 Max The Minister 9/2
6.00 Present Man 4/1 3B
6.30 Berry De Carjac 6/1
7.00 Haut Bages 5/1
7.30 Ballyegan 16/1
8.00 Live for Today 20/1
A great day yesterday with 30 points profit and another busy day today. Haven't got 'round to doing the evening cards yet, but expect them to be added to the bottom of here later on in the day.
A clean sweep for the best three yesterday and let's hope we can repeat that today. I've only got two so far, so I'll add the 3B after I've done the evening cards.
The NAP today has to be Blacklister for Mick Channon. He's been hard to win with, only once from sixteen, but he always goes well, with seven places to go with that. Ryan Moore is an eye-catching jockey booking and one that speaks of confidence from connections. He gets my vote as well.
For the NB, we go far up North to Perth where Malcolm Jefferson runs Sharpasaknife. Followers of the blog will recognise him as a 16/1 winner I put up on his debut and he's won again since at Haydock. He encounters similar conditions today and has Paddy Brennan on board to do the steering in the absence of Brian Hughes. He's still lightly raced and open to some more improvement, which will hopefully be on show today
21-04
Warwick
1.40 Sporting Milan 9/2
2.10 El Bandit 2/1
2.40 Dazinski 11/1
3.10 Mustmeetalady 5/1
3.40 Jayo Time 11/2
4.10 Conas Taoi 9/4
4.40 Clondaw Cracker 9/1
5.15 Our Mick 11/1
Beverly
1.50 Zig Zag Girl 7/1
2.20 Blacklister 5/2 NAP
2.50 Arab Poet 6/4
3.20 Donna Graciosa 8/1
3.50 Nietzsche 2/5
4.20 Jaqbequick 10/3
4.50 Carenot 8/15
Perth
2.00 Townshend 4/6
2.30 Abyaat 7/1
3.00 Sharpasaknife 11/4 NB Tracker
3.30 Valseur Du Granval 9/2
4.00 Tennis Cap 10/3
4.30 Rossini's Dancer 8/1
5.05 Impulsive American 9/4
Tipperary
4.35 Istan 3/1
5.10 Bridgebrook 9/1
5.40 Oor Jock 9/1
6.10 Lune De Sable 8/1
6.40 Ancient Sands 11/8
7.10 Duke Cass 6/1
7.40 Captain Bizarro 4/1
8.10 Edvardo 9/1
Market Rasen
4.45 Querry Horse 10/11
5.20 Quiet Candid 9/2
5.50 Money For Nothing 15/2
6.20 Mwaleshi 8/1
6.50 Running Wolf 16/1
7.20 Sgt Bull Berry 9/2
7.50 Polly's Pursuit 9/4
Exeter
4.55 Chase End Charlie 5/2
5.30 Max The Minister 9/2
6.00 Present Man 4/1 3B
6.30 Berry De Carjac 6/1
7.00 Haut Bages 5/1
7.30 Ballyegan 16/1
8.00 Live for Today 20/1
Wednesday 20 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 20-04
Morning all,
A seven point profit yesterday, mainly thanks to a good return at Wolverhampton with three winners and two places yielding a total profit of eighteen points. With enough winners and places at the other venues to limit losses it was an improvement from Monday's four point loss.
Two tracker horses today to tell you about. Willie Mullins sends Nambour to Perth in his chase for the Champion trainer's title and he could well be the one to claim the spoils over Albert Bartlett second Fagan. Up For Review also runs and is a live outsider. Over in Ireland, Fine Article needs to find some improvement in form to land the 6.55 at Fairyhouse, but with first time cheekpieces hopefully keeping his mind ont he job, he has a chance.
As for the best three selections, we start at Taunton where All Set To Go is taken to follow up for Paul Nicholls in his chase for the trainers title. He was a winner over C&D last time out and although burdened by a penalty, Harry Cobden takes a useful five off. One to keep an eye on at a price is Baby Sherlock, he's well related and having taken a couple of runs to learn his trade, his price of 14/1 could well be on the big side.
Next to Epsom for the Derby trial and Oaks contender So Mi Dar must be highly regarded to be sent to this to take on the boys. The weight allowance she gets may just be enough to see her beat main rivals Claudio Monteverdi & Top Beak. A fascinating race with some classic clues.
Finally, we go back to Perth where Malcolm Jefferson has a runner in the 2.40. Princess Tara was formerly with Peter Bowen and the switch to Jefferson's yard could well spark some improvement after disappointing lately. Jamie Hamilton has been in good form lately and claims five and it wouldn't surprise me to see this combination in the winners enclosure at the finish.
20-04
Catterick
1.50 Black Grass 4/1
2.20 Hit The Lights 7/2
2.55 Next Edition 6/1
3.30 Sherman McCoy 5/1
4.00 Enjoy Life 9/1
4.35 Fullon Clarets 13/2
5.10 Mr Orange 4/1
5.40 Golden Spun 7/2
Epsom Down
2.00 Monumental Man 6/1
2.30 So Mi Dar 7/2 NB
3.05 Scrutinise 7/1
3.40 Interconnection 9/1
4.15 Generalship 2/1
4.50 Marshal Dan Troop 7/2
Perth
2.10 Petapenko 7/2
2.40 Princess Tara 7/1 3B
3.15 Nambour 10/3 Tracker
3.50 Jennys Surprise 6/1
4.25 Rolling Thunder 4/1
5.00 Present Flight 5/1
5.30 Banyu 2/1
Lingfield
4.45 Bargain Buy 2/1
5.15 Jersey Roy 7/1
5.45 Intimately 9/1
6.15 Combative 9/1
6.45 Early Morning 7/2
7.15 Pure Art 6/1
7.45 Engai 7/1
Fairyhouse
4.55 Master of Verse 4/6
5.25 Annie Alainn 6/1
5.55 Midnight Theatre 10/1
6.25 Vercingetorix 10/3
6.55 Fine Article 4/1 Tracker
7.25 Better B Quick 20/1
7.55 Raglan Rose 11/2
Taunton
5.35 Rejaah 6/1
6.05 All Set To Go 13/8 NAP
6.35 To Begin 5/1
7.05 Justatenner 9/1
7.35 Saint Raph 7/4
8.05 Ereyna 6/1
A seven point profit yesterday, mainly thanks to a good return at Wolverhampton with three winners and two places yielding a total profit of eighteen points. With enough winners and places at the other venues to limit losses it was an improvement from Monday's four point loss.
Two tracker horses today to tell you about. Willie Mullins sends Nambour to Perth in his chase for the Champion trainer's title and he could well be the one to claim the spoils over Albert Bartlett second Fagan. Up For Review also runs and is a live outsider. Over in Ireland, Fine Article needs to find some improvement in form to land the 6.55 at Fairyhouse, but with first time cheekpieces hopefully keeping his mind ont he job, he has a chance.
As for the best three selections, we start at Taunton where All Set To Go is taken to follow up for Paul Nicholls in his chase for the trainers title. He was a winner over C&D last time out and although burdened by a penalty, Harry Cobden takes a useful five off. One to keep an eye on at a price is Baby Sherlock, he's well related and having taken a couple of runs to learn his trade, his price of 14/1 could well be on the big side.
Next to Epsom for the Derby trial and Oaks contender So Mi Dar must be highly regarded to be sent to this to take on the boys. The weight allowance she gets may just be enough to see her beat main rivals Claudio Monteverdi & Top Beak. A fascinating race with some classic clues.
Finally, we go back to Perth where Malcolm Jefferson has a runner in the 2.40. Princess Tara was formerly with Peter Bowen and the switch to Jefferson's yard could well spark some improvement after disappointing lately. Jamie Hamilton has been in good form lately and claims five and it wouldn't surprise me to see this combination in the winners enclosure at the finish.
20-04
Catterick
1.50 Black Grass 4/1
2.20 Hit The Lights 7/2
2.55 Next Edition 6/1
3.30 Sherman McCoy 5/1
4.00 Enjoy Life 9/1
4.35 Fullon Clarets 13/2
5.10 Mr Orange 4/1
5.40 Golden Spun 7/2
Epsom Down
2.00 Monumental Man 6/1
2.30 So Mi Dar 7/2 NB
3.05 Scrutinise 7/1
3.40 Interconnection 9/1
4.15 Generalship 2/1
4.50 Marshal Dan Troop 7/2
Perth
2.10 Petapenko 7/2
2.40 Princess Tara 7/1 3B
3.15 Nambour 10/3 Tracker
3.50 Jennys Surprise 6/1
4.25 Rolling Thunder 4/1
5.00 Present Flight 5/1
5.30 Banyu 2/1
Lingfield
4.45 Bargain Buy 2/1
5.15 Jersey Roy 7/1
5.45 Intimately 9/1
6.15 Combative 9/1
6.45 Early Morning 7/2
7.15 Pure Art 6/1
7.45 Engai 7/1
Fairyhouse
4.55 Master of Verse 4/6
5.25 Annie Alainn 6/1
5.55 Midnight Theatre 10/1
6.25 Vercingetorix 10/3
6.55 Fine Article 4/1 Tracker
7.25 Better B Quick 20/1
7.55 Raglan Rose 11/2
Taunton
5.35 Rejaah 6/1
6.05 All Set To Go 13/8 NAP
6.35 To Begin 5/1
7.05 Justatenner 9/1
7.35 Saint Raph 7/4
8.05 Ereyna 6/1
Tuesday 19 April 2016
Jumps XI
The Jumps XI
By @Redgameracer
Author’s Note: This has probably been done before. It’s probably complete and utter nonsense. But it’s Friday, so who cares. Enjoy!
We all have many loves in live. The wife and kids, holidays, sports, you name it. They are excellent things to enjoy and love on their own, but combining them can make it extra special. Colour me crazy, but I like going on holiday with the wife and kids. People I love doing a thing I love together, Makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. How on earth does that relate to my post, I hear you ask? Simple, I’m going to combine two other things I love. Race horses and football. I’m going to craft a football team based on the characteristics of certain race horses. Madness, I know, but let’s give it a shot anyway.
The formation
In order to determine what sort of qualities we need, we’ll need to lay out a basic formation. Being Dutch, I’m won’t be going for the Old British 4-4-2 with a big man and a little man up top. That doesn’t work for me, I like something a bit more interesting. But we’ll stick with four at the back, with two central midfielders in front of them. Further up front, a winger on either side and #10 tucked in behind the striker. Call it 4-2-3-1, with plenty of attacking ability on display. I’d rather win a game 3-2 than 1-0 after all.
Goalkeeper
I like a goalkeeper to be experienced and reliable. Solid and unspectacular is what we are going for here, with years of experience at the highest level. Put those together and only one name comes out of the hat. Mick Channon’s Somersby. He has eight consecutive appearances at the highest level of jumps racing, the Cheltenham Festival, always gives you a run for your money without being spectacular and has an excellent record. Seven wins and eighteen places from 41 starts is just the sort of form I’d like to see in a reliable goalkeeper.
Right back
A tricky place to fill, because the right back will need stamina and pace. He needs to be relied upon to always give a good showing, even if he fails to quite make the highest grade. He’ll also need to be able to cover the right winger (for reasons details in that position) so we need a solid pick here. Djakadam is the one I’ve gone for. He has shown plenty of ability, but hasn’t quite lived up to the billed potential. He’s more of a slogger, a hard worker who can do a job and not let you down, but it’s hard to see him shine like some of the superstars of the game.
Centre Back 1 - Man marker
This guy has one job, pure and simple. He has to neutralise the opposition striker by any means necessary. I like a big, strong man for this role, who doesn’t care if he goes over or through who or what is in front of him. The sort of player Nemanja Vidic was in his prime. The horse I really fancy for this position is a true giant, with plenty of winning form in the book. Malcolm Jefferson’s Cyrus Darius never showed any respect to his hurdles, winning all three of his races over timber by either jumping or flattening the obstacles. He did the same over the taller obstacles when a narrow winner on debut. He is big and strong and although currently out with injury, I expect him to be back fully fit and raring to go next season.
Centre Back 2 - Ball player
If one of my defenders is the ‘hard man’, then the other has to be the silky and elegant ball player. Mix a bit of Rio Ferdinand, with Ledley King and Franco Baresi and you’ll get what I mean. Always in the right position, never out of place. Never hurried or looking frazzled, but instead oozing supreme confidence in his own abilities. Doesn’t often have to get out of second gear, but when he does, he always catches his man. If Cyrus Darius is the ultimate hardman, then Douvan has to partner him at the back. I don’t think we’ve really seen how good he is, but everything he does looks easy and by that reckoning he’s the ultimate silky defender.
Left back
Having played as a left back for many years myself, I know it takes a slightly nutty player to do the job. Someone who always goes at 110%, whether it’s a training ground kick about or a cup final. A player with huge enthusiasm and courage, but both of those traits can sometimes cause his downfall because he’s flying into everything. The most likely player for that role then, is Un De Sceaux. A true mad bastard, he doesn’t do anything by halves. It may strike fear into the opponents to see him charging in as long as he doesn’t fly in two footed and is off by half time!
Central Midfield - Ball Winner
Forgive me the pun, but this position is suited for a workhorse. A crucial part in the team, the player in this role is a hard worker. Often underrated by the general public, but highly regarded by those in the know and more so by those around him whose dirty work he does. Despite having won six Grade Ones and still being only a six year old, Nichols Canyon is to my view still hugely underrated. He is the only one to have beaten Faugheen, yet never seems to get the credit he deserves. A tough and hard working sort of type, he is the ideal midfield breaker.
Central Midfield - Play Maker
If Nichols Canyon is to be the breaker, we need a creative type along side him. The deep-lying playmaker. Often a player that gets better with age, experience plays a huge part in this position. He’s the sort that merrily plugs along for years, then hits his late twenties or early thirties and suddenly everyone realises how good he actually is. And when that happens, he quickly catapults to the global stage, amongst the absolute very best in the game. The prime example in footballing terms is of course Andrea Pirlo, but if we’re talking horses then there can only be one. Cue Card. Having soon promise in his early years, he seemed destined to be a nearly man until a breathing operation announced him to the world as one of the top staying chasers.
Right Winger
In theory wingers should be fairly interchangeable in this system. That is to say, they should be able to operate on either side. However, I’m going to pick them specifically with one side in mind. A winger obviously needs pace and technique and a little bit of flair. They are often the fans favourites for their ability to do something extraordinary. They are also plagued by injury sometimes and that I why I have chosen Sprinter Sacre on the right wing. Having made a brilliant return from injury this year in winning the Queen Mother Champion Chase, he for many people epitomises all that is great about National Hunt racing. A true fans’ favourite, with plenty of pace and an excellent technique, he fits just fine for this position. He is also part of the reason for my right back selection, with Djakadam able to cover any troubles that our star might have.
Left Winger
The selection on the left has to fulfil the same criteria as the right winger with one added notation. With Un De Sceaux in behind, the left winger may have to do plenty of back tracking in order to cover our Gung-Ho left back. Thistlecrack then is the perfect choice. Still one with plenty of speed and pace and great technique for jumping, he has the added bonus of a ton of stamina in order to track back and help out his left back.
#10
The number ten position is that of the absolute superstar. He doesn’t like to train or work out. He’s the type to shuffle around the training pitch with a fag in his mouth, cursing his teammates for not giving him the ball at his feet. But at the same time, put him out on the pitch in a match and everything changed. He’s gifted with incredible amounts of natural talent and will use that to devastating effect at the biggest stage of all. He is the poster boy for the game and everyone loves him. Vautour fits all the criteria. A horse of incredible talent, who comes alive at the biggest stage of all, Cheltenham. But he can be hard to train and doesn’t show himself to his best effect until out on the greatest stage.
Striker
With only one striker in the team, he has to be devastatingly good. He has to be the complete package of pace, technique and strength. One who very rarely misses his targets and seldom gets beaten. A machine if you like. Faugheen then is the answer. Quite possibly still the best over the two mile hurdle trip, he has everything that you’d want to see. Only ever beaten once, he has the supreme ability to defeat his markers with devastating effect. If you’re going to rely on someone to win you games, Faugheen’s your man.
The full Jumps XI:
GK: Somersby
DR: Djakadam
DC: Cyrus Darius
DC: Douvan
DL: Un De Sceaux
MC: Nichols Canyon
MC: Cue Card (C)
AMR: Thistlecrack
#10: Vautour
AML: Sprinter Sacre
ST: Faugheen
And there you have it. The @Redgameracer Jumps XI. I’m sure there’s some controversial selections and some obvious omissions, so if you think you can do better, send me your XI, either by leaving a comment or tweeting me @redgameracer.
By @Redgameracer
Author’s Note: This has probably been done before. It’s probably complete and utter nonsense. But it’s Friday, so who cares. Enjoy!
We all have many loves in live. The wife and kids, holidays, sports, you name it. They are excellent things to enjoy and love on their own, but combining them can make it extra special. Colour me crazy, but I like going on holiday with the wife and kids. People I love doing a thing I love together, Makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. How on earth does that relate to my post, I hear you ask? Simple, I’m going to combine two other things I love. Race horses and football. I’m going to craft a football team based on the characteristics of certain race horses. Madness, I know, but let’s give it a shot anyway.
The formation
In order to determine what sort of qualities we need, we’ll need to lay out a basic formation. Being Dutch, I’m won’t be going for the Old British 4-4-2 with a big man and a little man up top. That doesn’t work for me, I like something a bit more interesting. But we’ll stick with four at the back, with two central midfielders in front of them. Further up front, a winger on either side and #10 tucked in behind the striker. Call it 4-2-3-1, with plenty of attacking ability on display. I’d rather win a game 3-2 than 1-0 after all.
Goalkeeper
I like a goalkeeper to be experienced and reliable. Solid and unspectacular is what we are going for here, with years of experience at the highest level. Put those together and only one name comes out of the hat. Mick Channon’s Somersby. He has eight consecutive appearances at the highest level of jumps racing, the Cheltenham Festival, always gives you a run for your money without being spectacular and has an excellent record. Seven wins and eighteen places from 41 starts is just the sort of form I’d like to see in a reliable goalkeeper.
Right back
A tricky place to fill, because the right back will need stamina and pace. He needs to be relied upon to always give a good showing, even if he fails to quite make the highest grade. He’ll also need to be able to cover the right winger (for reasons details in that position) so we need a solid pick here. Djakadam is the one I’ve gone for. He has shown plenty of ability, but hasn’t quite lived up to the billed potential. He’s more of a slogger, a hard worker who can do a job and not let you down, but it’s hard to see him shine like some of the superstars of the game.
Centre Back 1 - Man marker
This guy has one job, pure and simple. He has to neutralise the opposition striker by any means necessary. I like a big, strong man for this role, who doesn’t care if he goes over or through who or what is in front of him. The sort of player Nemanja Vidic was in his prime. The horse I really fancy for this position is a true giant, with plenty of winning form in the book. Malcolm Jefferson’s Cyrus Darius never showed any respect to his hurdles, winning all three of his races over timber by either jumping or flattening the obstacles. He did the same over the taller obstacles when a narrow winner on debut. He is big and strong and although currently out with injury, I expect him to be back fully fit and raring to go next season.
Centre Back 2 - Ball player
If one of my defenders is the ‘hard man’, then the other has to be the silky and elegant ball player. Mix a bit of Rio Ferdinand, with Ledley King and Franco Baresi and you’ll get what I mean. Always in the right position, never out of place. Never hurried or looking frazzled, but instead oozing supreme confidence in his own abilities. Doesn’t often have to get out of second gear, but when he does, he always catches his man. If Cyrus Darius is the ultimate hardman, then Douvan has to partner him at the back. I don’t think we’ve really seen how good he is, but everything he does looks easy and by that reckoning he’s the ultimate silky defender.
Left back
Having played as a left back for many years myself, I know it takes a slightly nutty player to do the job. Someone who always goes at 110%, whether it’s a training ground kick about or a cup final. A player with huge enthusiasm and courage, but both of those traits can sometimes cause his downfall because he’s flying into everything. The most likely player for that role then, is Un De Sceaux. A true mad bastard, he doesn’t do anything by halves. It may strike fear into the opponents to see him charging in as long as he doesn’t fly in two footed and is off by half time!
Central Midfield - Ball Winner
Forgive me the pun, but this position is suited for a workhorse. A crucial part in the team, the player in this role is a hard worker. Often underrated by the general public, but highly regarded by those in the know and more so by those around him whose dirty work he does. Despite having won six Grade Ones and still being only a six year old, Nichols Canyon is to my view still hugely underrated. He is the only one to have beaten Faugheen, yet never seems to get the credit he deserves. A tough and hard working sort of type, he is the ideal midfield breaker.
Central Midfield - Play Maker
If Nichols Canyon is to be the breaker, we need a creative type along side him. The deep-lying playmaker. Often a player that gets better with age, experience plays a huge part in this position. He’s the sort that merrily plugs along for years, then hits his late twenties or early thirties and suddenly everyone realises how good he actually is. And when that happens, he quickly catapults to the global stage, amongst the absolute very best in the game. The prime example in footballing terms is of course Andrea Pirlo, but if we’re talking horses then there can only be one. Cue Card. Having soon promise in his early years, he seemed destined to be a nearly man until a breathing operation announced him to the world as one of the top staying chasers.
Right Winger
In theory wingers should be fairly interchangeable in this system. That is to say, they should be able to operate on either side. However, I’m going to pick them specifically with one side in mind. A winger obviously needs pace and technique and a little bit of flair. They are often the fans favourites for their ability to do something extraordinary. They are also plagued by injury sometimes and that I why I have chosen Sprinter Sacre on the right wing. Having made a brilliant return from injury this year in winning the Queen Mother Champion Chase, he for many people epitomises all that is great about National Hunt racing. A true fans’ favourite, with plenty of pace and an excellent technique, he fits just fine for this position. He is also part of the reason for my right back selection, with Djakadam able to cover any troubles that our star might have.
Left Winger
The selection on the left has to fulfil the same criteria as the right winger with one added notation. With Un De Sceaux in behind, the left winger may have to do plenty of back tracking in order to cover our Gung-Ho left back. Thistlecrack then is the perfect choice. Still one with plenty of speed and pace and great technique for jumping, he has the added bonus of a ton of stamina in order to track back and help out his left back.
#10
The number ten position is that of the absolute superstar. He doesn’t like to train or work out. He’s the type to shuffle around the training pitch with a fag in his mouth, cursing his teammates for not giving him the ball at his feet. But at the same time, put him out on the pitch in a match and everything changed. He’s gifted with incredible amounts of natural talent and will use that to devastating effect at the biggest stage of all. He is the poster boy for the game and everyone loves him. Vautour fits all the criteria. A horse of incredible talent, who comes alive at the biggest stage of all, Cheltenham. But he can be hard to train and doesn’t show himself to his best effect until out on the greatest stage.
Striker
With only one striker in the team, he has to be devastatingly good. He has to be the complete package of pace, technique and strength. One who very rarely misses his targets and seldom gets beaten. A machine if you like. Faugheen then is the answer. Quite possibly still the best over the two mile hurdle trip, he has everything that you’d want to see. Only ever beaten once, he has the supreme ability to defeat his markers with devastating effect. If you’re going to rely on someone to win you games, Faugheen’s your man.
The full Jumps XI:
GK: Somersby
DR: Djakadam
DC: Cyrus Darius
DC: Douvan
DL: Un De Sceaux
MC: Nichols Canyon
MC: Cue Card (C)
AMR: Thistlecrack
#10: Vautour
AML: Sprinter Sacre
ST: Faugheen
And there you have it. The @Redgameracer Jumps XI. I’m sure there’s some controversial selections and some obvious omissions, so if you think you can do better, send me your XI, either by leaving a comment or tweeting me @redgameracer.
Reds Racing Tips 19-04
Morning all,
today's selections are below. No write up today I'm afraid as I'm pushed for time.
19-04
Kempton
2.00 Artifice Sivola 5/1
2.30 Abbreviate 3/1
3.00 Reyno 12/1
3.30 Via Volupta 9/4 NAP
4.00 Valadom 12/1 3B Tracker
4.30 Montbazon 11/2 NB
5.00 Drom 6/1
Ludlow
2.10 Stickee Fingers 14/1
2.40 Le Bacardy 5/2
3.10 Thoonavolla 11/2
3.40 Shotavodka 7/1
4.10 Midnight Folie 12/1
4.40 Mazovian 6/1
5.10 Blinding Lights 12/1
5.45 Smoking Dixie 7/2
Wolverhampton
2.20 Singular Quest 5/1
2.50 Dark Illustrator 11/2
3.20 Indira 4/1
3.50 Kelvin Hall 10/3
4.20 Fearbuster 8/1
4.55 Flying Fantasy 4/1
5.25 Tasaaboq 7/1
Brighton
4.50 Visionary 9/2
5.20 Honiton Lace 14/1
5.50 Harlequin Striker 15/2
6.20 Eastern Dragon 8/1
6.50 Capplielow Park 11/1
7.20 Fitzwilliam 9/2
7.50 Hipz 7/2
Sedgefield
5.05 Bonne Question 2/1
5.35 Moscow Presents 3/1
6.05 Snowed In 14/1
6.35 Auldthunder 5/2
7.05 Burtons Well 9/2 Tracker
7.35 Abricot De L'Oasis 1/1
8.05 Desert Sensation 8/1
today's selections are below. No write up today I'm afraid as I'm pushed for time.
19-04
Kempton
2.00 Artifice Sivola 5/1
2.30 Abbreviate 3/1
3.00 Reyno 12/1
3.30 Via Volupta 9/4 NAP
4.00 Valadom 12/1 3B Tracker
4.30 Montbazon 11/2 NB
5.00 Drom 6/1
Ludlow
2.10 Stickee Fingers 14/1
2.40 Le Bacardy 5/2
3.10 Thoonavolla 11/2
3.40 Shotavodka 7/1
4.10 Midnight Folie 12/1
4.40 Mazovian 6/1
5.10 Blinding Lights 12/1
5.45 Smoking Dixie 7/2
Wolverhampton
2.20 Singular Quest 5/1
2.50 Dark Illustrator 11/2
3.20 Indira 4/1
3.50 Kelvin Hall 10/3
4.20 Fearbuster 8/1
4.55 Flying Fantasy 4/1
5.25 Tasaaboq 7/1
Brighton
4.50 Visionary 9/2
5.20 Honiton Lace 14/1
5.50 Harlequin Striker 15/2
6.20 Eastern Dragon 8/1
6.50 Capplielow Park 11/1
7.20 Fitzwilliam 9/2
7.50 Hipz 7/2
Sedgefield
5.05 Bonne Question 2/1
5.35 Moscow Presents 3/1
6.05 Snowed In 14/1
6.35 Auldthunder 5/2
7.05 Burtons Well 9/2 Tracker
7.35 Abricot De L'Oasis 1/1
8.05 Desert Sensation 8/1
Monday 18 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 18-04
Morning all,
I've had a busy weekend so sadly no blogs went out. But we're back with a bang (hopefully) today in order to make up for that. Bumper six meeting day today as evening racing really ramps up again. I'm going to have my work cut out from now on!
Today's NAP runs at Windsor in the shape of October Storm. Mick Channon's three year old won well last time out on the all weather at Kempton and with De Souza retaining the ride he could have more to come. I don't think the tricky conditions will be a problem for him and he's still open to improvement.
The NB is Kayf Willow over at Newton Abbot. A winner over C&D in similar conditions under Richard Johnson, she steps back up in trip after failing to make the grade in a hot race at Taunton over slightly shorter. She'll have been kept for these sort of conditions and with the talented Ciaran Gethings taking five lbs off, she could be well in here.
Finally, I'm going for the well bred Heartful for the powerful combination of Smullen and Weld over at Dundalk's 7.00. She starts with a tongue tie, but if her breeding is anything to go on, she should have the measure of these.
18-04
Newton Abbot
1.50 Muffins For Tea 5/2
2.20 Val D'Arc 10/3
2.50 Dainty Diva 11/1
3.20 Fourth Act 5/1
3.50 Kayf Willow 6/1 NB
4.20 Arctic Lady 5/1
4.55 Couer De Fou 6/4
Hexham
2.00 Very First Time 1/2
2.30 Rosquero 11/2
3.00 Ryedale Racer 10/11
3.30 Beyondtemptation 5/1
4.00 Gibbstown 11/4
4.35 Grouse Lodge 10/1
5.10 Knocklayde 3/1
Pontefract
2.10 Sidewinder 11/2
2.40 Terhaal 4/1
3.10 Ocean Sheridan 11/2
3.40 Filatore 14/1
4.10 Abaco Ridge 9/4
4.45 Danish Duke 7/2
5.15 Kiwi Bay 14/1
Windsor
4.50 Fastnet Spin 10/1
5.20 Elusivity 17/2
5.50 Ceyhan 13/2
6.20 Ice Lord 5/1
6.50 Goldslinger 11/2
7.20 October Storm 11/4 NAP
7.50 Louis Vee 25/1
Huntingdon
5.05 Board of Trade 9/4
5.40 Lets Hope So 5/1
6.10 Norse Light 10/1
6.40 Silver Eagle 11/2
7.10 Bronco Billy 9/2
7.40 Genstone Trail 5/1
Dundalk
5.30 Caravaggio 5/6
6.00 Lady Mega 7/1
6.30 Sir Isaac Newton 4/5
7.00 Heartful 7/1 3B
7.30 Bravery 8/11
8.00 Party Angel 10/1
8.30 Coreczka 9/4
I've had a busy weekend so sadly no blogs went out. But we're back with a bang (hopefully) today in order to make up for that. Bumper six meeting day today as evening racing really ramps up again. I'm going to have my work cut out from now on!
Today's NAP runs at Windsor in the shape of October Storm. Mick Channon's three year old won well last time out on the all weather at Kempton and with De Souza retaining the ride he could have more to come. I don't think the tricky conditions will be a problem for him and he's still open to improvement.
The NB is Kayf Willow over at Newton Abbot. A winner over C&D in similar conditions under Richard Johnson, she steps back up in trip after failing to make the grade in a hot race at Taunton over slightly shorter. She'll have been kept for these sort of conditions and with the talented Ciaran Gethings taking five lbs off, she could be well in here.
Finally, I'm going for the well bred Heartful for the powerful combination of Smullen and Weld over at Dundalk's 7.00. She starts with a tongue tie, but if her breeding is anything to go on, she should have the measure of these.
18-04
Newton Abbot
1.50 Muffins For Tea 5/2
2.20 Val D'Arc 10/3
2.50 Dainty Diva 11/1
3.20 Fourth Act 5/1
3.50 Kayf Willow 6/1 NB
4.20 Arctic Lady 5/1
4.55 Couer De Fou 6/4
Hexham
2.00 Very First Time 1/2
2.30 Rosquero 11/2
3.00 Ryedale Racer 10/11
3.30 Beyondtemptation 5/1
4.00 Gibbstown 11/4
4.35 Grouse Lodge 10/1
5.10 Knocklayde 3/1
Pontefract
2.10 Sidewinder 11/2
2.40 Terhaal 4/1
3.10 Ocean Sheridan 11/2
3.40 Filatore 14/1
4.10 Abaco Ridge 9/4
4.45 Danish Duke 7/2
5.15 Kiwi Bay 14/1
Windsor
4.50 Fastnet Spin 10/1
5.20 Elusivity 17/2
5.50 Ceyhan 13/2
6.20 Ice Lord 5/1
6.50 Goldslinger 11/2
7.20 October Storm 11/4 NAP
7.50 Louis Vee 25/1
Huntingdon
5.05 Board of Trade 9/4
5.40 Lets Hope So 5/1
6.10 Norse Light 10/1
6.40 Silver Eagle 11/2
7.10 Bronco Billy 9/2
7.40 Genstone Trail 5/1
Dundalk
5.30 Caravaggio 5/6
6.00 Lady Mega 7/1
6.30 Sir Isaac Newton 4/5
7.00 Heartful 7/1 3B
7.30 Bravery 8/11
8.00 Party Angel 10/1
8.30 Coreczka 9/4
Friday 15 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 15-04
Morning all,
After an excellent Wedsnesday that saw a 39 point profit and winning Nap & 3B, Thursday was a disappointment with a nine point loss. It could have been a lot worse but for Hitherjaques Lady landing a 16/1 into 4/1 gamble. The best three were disappointing, with only NB Harlequeen making the frame. She'll be one to look out for over the season for sure.
Today's best three come from Fontwell, Ayr and Bath, with Newbury sadly off due to the weather. We start with the NAP and it's one of my horses to follow for this season, Clondaw Cian. He returns to Fontwell where he is two from two after struggling elsewhere in higher grade. This is a step down in class and should really be a winning return for him.
The NB comes from Ayr. Malcolm Jefferson sends two here and one of them is last time out winner Gully's Edge. He won impressively by seventeen lengths that day and an opening mark of 126 doesn't seem overly restrictive. Jamie Hamilton is in good form and takes five off, so he's certainly in with a chance.
Finally, the opener at Bath where Helium has been in fine form over obstacles this season. His mark over obstacles has shot up as a result, but he gets in at the bottom here and he should relish that if he's retained anything of his early season from over jumps.
15-04
Fontwell
1.35 Space Walker 8/1
2.10 Saint Roque 11/8
2.45 Clondaw Cian 11/8 Tracker NAP
3.20 As De Fer 10/3
3.55 Highbury High 9/2
4.25 Shadaii 3/1
5.00 Mr Bachster 7/2
5.30 Toviere 5/1
Ayr
2.00 Jetstream Jack 6/4
2.35 Nine Altars 11/2
3.10 Gully's Edge 11/2 NB
3.45 Orbasa 5/1
4.15 Morning Royalty 3/1
4.45 Valyssa Monterg 4/1
5.15 Marlee Massie 10/1
Southwell
4.40 Mondo Cane 8/1
5.10 Stormbay Bomber 11/2
5.40 Warrantor 15/8
6.10 Drom 8/1
6.40 Baraboy 12/1
7.10 Comte D'Anjou 18/1
7.40 Kalanisi Circle 9/2
Bath
4.50 Helium 9/1 3B
5.20 Inclination 7/2
5.50 Rosealee 12/1
6.20 Thesme 14/1
6.50 Asfaar 3/1
7.20 Deep Blue Sea 5/1
7.50 Forgiving Glance 7/2
Ballinrobe
4.55 Solar Heat 5/2
5.25 Definite Earl 14/1
5.55 Our Boy Ben 13/2
6.25 Bringerofthedawn 11/4
6.55 Captain Hox 5/2
7.25 Coolnagorna Giggs 9/2
7.55 Leopards Leap 11/2
Dundalk
5.35 Takeachanceonme 11/4
6.05 Duck Egg Blue 10/1
6.35 Shinyhappyjohn 4/1
7.05 Lady Oak 4/1
7.35 Paytheprice 14/1
8.05 Taqaseem 11/4
8.35 Runmhar 8/1
9.05 Cristy's Call 16/1
After an excellent Wedsnesday that saw a 39 point profit and winning Nap & 3B, Thursday was a disappointment with a nine point loss. It could have been a lot worse but for Hitherjaques Lady landing a 16/1 into 4/1 gamble. The best three were disappointing, with only NB Harlequeen making the frame. She'll be one to look out for over the season for sure.
Today's best three come from Fontwell, Ayr and Bath, with Newbury sadly off due to the weather. We start with the NAP and it's one of my horses to follow for this season, Clondaw Cian. He returns to Fontwell where he is two from two after struggling elsewhere in higher grade. This is a step down in class and should really be a winning return for him.
The NB comes from Ayr. Malcolm Jefferson sends two here and one of them is last time out winner Gully's Edge. He won impressively by seventeen lengths that day and an opening mark of 126 doesn't seem overly restrictive. Jamie Hamilton is in good form and takes five off, so he's certainly in with a chance.
Finally, the opener at Bath where Helium has been in fine form over obstacles this season. His mark over obstacles has shot up as a result, but he gets in at the bottom here and he should relish that if he's retained anything of his early season from over jumps.
15-04
Fontwell
1.35 Space Walker 8/1
2.10 Saint Roque 11/8
2.45 Clondaw Cian 11/8 Tracker NAP
3.20 As De Fer 10/3
3.55 Highbury High 9/2
4.25 Shadaii 3/1
5.00 Mr Bachster 7/2
5.30 Toviere 5/1
Ayr
2.00 Jetstream Jack 6/4
2.35 Nine Altars 11/2
3.10 Gully's Edge 11/2 NB
3.45 Orbasa 5/1
4.15 Morning Royalty 3/1
4.45 Valyssa Monterg 4/1
5.15 Marlee Massie 10/1
Southwell
4.40 Mondo Cane 8/1
5.10 Stormbay Bomber 11/2
5.40 Warrantor 15/8
6.10 Drom 8/1
6.40 Baraboy 12/1
7.10 Comte D'Anjou 18/1
7.40 Kalanisi Circle 9/2
Bath
4.50 Helium 9/1 3B
5.20 Inclination 7/2
5.50 Rosealee 12/1
6.20 Thesme 14/1
6.50 Asfaar 3/1
7.20 Deep Blue Sea 5/1
7.50 Forgiving Glance 7/2
Ballinrobe
4.55 Solar Heat 5/2
5.25 Definite Earl 14/1
5.55 Our Boy Ben 13/2
6.25 Bringerofthedawn 11/4
6.55 Captain Hox 5/2
7.25 Coolnagorna Giggs 9/2
7.55 Leopards Leap 11/2
Dundalk
5.35 Takeachanceonme 11/4
6.05 Duck Egg Blue 10/1
6.35 Shinyhappyjohn 4/1
7.05 Lady Oak 4/1
7.35 Paytheprice 14/1
8.05 Taqaseem 11/4
8.35 Runmhar 8/1
9.05 Cristy's Call 16/1
Thursday 14 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 14-04
Morning all,
Pushed for time, so no write up. Chelmsford Selections to follow. Have a good one.
14-04
Cheltenham
1.50 Robinesse 20/1 Tracker
2.25 Kalane 5/1 Tracker
3.00 Unbuckled 10/1 3B
3.35 Benvolio 4/1
4.10 Fingerontheswitch 14/1 Tracker
4.45 Lovely Job 4/1
5.20 Hitherjaques Lady 16/1
Ripon
2.00 Bonnie Arlene 3/1
2.35 Intisaab 13/2
3.10 Maraakib 8/1 NAP
3.45 Dolphin Vista 5/1
4.20 Eternitys Gate 7/1
4.55 Master Mirasol 5/1
5.30 Flyboy 7/4
Newmarket
2.10 Blue Geranium 4/1
2.45 Zumran 4/1
3.20 Harlequeen 7/1 NB
3.55 Baccarat 5/1
4.30 Foundation 8/13
5.05 Felix Leiter 14/1
5.40 Monteverdi 10/1
Limerick
2.15 Plain Talking 5/2
2.50 Eight Chimes 12/1
3.25 Marygale Bridge 8/1
4.00 He Is Top Class 4/1
4.35 Some Drama 4/7
5.10 Draycott Place 11/4
5.45 Balkalin 5/2
Chelmsford City
6.10 Linguist 16/1
6.40 Burcan 11/4
7.10 False ID 5/1
7.40 Semra 11/8
8.10 More Spice 11/4
8.40 Bracken Brae 9/2
9.10 Spice Mill 7/1
Pushed for time, so no write up. Chelmsford Selections to follow. Have a good one.
14-04
Cheltenham
1.50 Robinesse 20/1 Tracker
2.25 Kalane 5/1 Tracker
3.00 Unbuckled 10/1 3B
3.35 Benvolio 4/1
4.10 Fingerontheswitch 14/1 Tracker
4.45 Lovely Job 4/1
5.20 Hitherjaques Lady 16/1
Ripon
2.00 Bonnie Arlene 3/1
2.35 Intisaab 13/2
3.10 Maraakib 8/1 NAP
3.45 Dolphin Vista 5/1
4.20 Eternitys Gate 7/1
4.55 Master Mirasol 5/1
5.30 Flyboy 7/4
Newmarket
2.10 Blue Geranium 4/1
2.45 Zumran 4/1
3.20 Harlequeen 7/1 NB
3.55 Baccarat 5/1
4.30 Foundation 8/13
5.05 Felix Leiter 14/1
5.40 Monteverdi 10/1
Limerick
2.15 Plain Talking 5/2
2.50 Eight Chimes 12/1
3.25 Marygale Bridge 8/1
4.00 He Is Top Class 4/1
4.35 Some Drama 4/7
5.10 Draycott Place 11/4
5.45 Balkalin 5/2
Chelmsford City
6.10 Linguist 16/1
6.40 Burcan 11/4
7.10 False ID 5/1
7.40 Semra 11/8
8.10 More Spice 11/4
8.40 Bracken Brae 9/2
9.10 Spice Mill 7/1
Wednesday 13 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 13-04
Morning all,
A six-point loss yesterday, mainly due to a shocker at Southwell, but both Newmarket & Exeter returned a profit, so there's improvement in the works. Nathra provided a winning NAP in the Nell Gwen, travelling pretty smoothly for the early part, but Frankie had to get to work to get her home. NB Jufn once again got off to a poor start and looks a handful. He raced very keenly in the early stages and his antics may well have cost him towards the end of the race. The 3B Golden Reign started slowly, but once Golden Horn's half-sister got the hang of things, she quickened up for a good third. She'll be one to watch out for in the future.
Today's NAP is Mister Miyagi at Cheltenham's opener. A very good sixth in the Supreme despite an early mistake, he steps up in trip after two earlier wins over 2m this season. I don't think the step up in trip will inconvenience him too much and crucially, he has won around Cheltenham before. It's a pretty hot race with plenty of good form on offer, but I think the selection will enjoy conditions and have a right good go.
The NB comes from Beverly's 3.45. Motdaw shoulders a penalty after her easy success at Nottingham last week, but that was an impressive win and although this is tougher, she should be able to follow up. The improvement on her two-year old form was significant and with the forecast rain in her favour she's take to do the double.
Finally the 4.30 at Newmarket where Royal Ascot winner Mahsoob is taken to bounce back to form. He didn't quite make it at group level last year, but he should enjoy conditions and with Paul Hanagan back on board, 15/2 is a big price.
13-04
Cheltenham
1.50 Mister Miyagi 2/1 NAP
2.25 Conas Taoi 5/1
3.00 Double W's 9/1
3.35 Voix D'eau 7/2
4.10 Altesse De Guye 5/1
4.45 Fox Norton 11/8
5.20 Authorized Too 8/1
Beverly
2.00 Mazaz 9/4
2.35 Orewa 12/1
3.10 Singeur 8/1
3.45 Motdaw 5/2 NB
4.20 Project Bluebook 5/2
4.55 Jintshi 4/1
5.30 Cabal 8/1
Newmarket
2.10 Shraaoh 7/1
2.45 Sutter County 4/6
3.20 Gifted Master 4/7
3.55 Scrutineer 13/2
4.30 Mahsoob 15/2 3B
5.05 Daqeeq 5/1
5.40 Merhoob 7/1
Kempton
5.50 Hurricane Volta 10/1
6.20 King of Spin 3/1
6.50 Misu Pete 7/1
7.20 Etaad 9/2
7.50 Eton Rambler 12/1
8.20 Mezmaar 13/2
8.50 Rigolleto 11/2
9.20 Showmethewayavrilo 13/2
A six-point loss yesterday, mainly due to a shocker at Southwell, but both Newmarket & Exeter returned a profit, so there's improvement in the works. Nathra provided a winning NAP in the Nell Gwen, travelling pretty smoothly for the early part, but Frankie had to get to work to get her home. NB Jufn once again got off to a poor start and looks a handful. He raced very keenly in the early stages and his antics may well have cost him towards the end of the race. The 3B Golden Reign started slowly, but once Golden Horn's half-sister got the hang of things, she quickened up for a good third. She'll be one to watch out for in the future.
Today's NAP is Mister Miyagi at Cheltenham's opener. A very good sixth in the Supreme despite an early mistake, he steps up in trip after two earlier wins over 2m this season. I don't think the step up in trip will inconvenience him too much and crucially, he has won around Cheltenham before. It's a pretty hot race with plenty of good form on offer, but I think the selection will enjoy conditions and have a right good go.
The NB comes from Beverly's 3.45. Motdaw shoulders a penalty after her easy success at Nottingham last week, but that was an impressive win and although this is tougher, she should be able to follow up. The improvement on her two-year old form was significant and with the forecast rain in her favour she's take to do the double.
Finally the 4.30 at Newmarket where Royal Ascot winner Mahsoob is taken to bounce back to form. He didn't quite make it at group level last year, but he should enjoy conditions and with Paul Hanagan back on board, 15/2 is a big price.
13-04
Cheltenham
1.50 Mister Miyagi 2/1 NAP
2.25 Conas Taoi 5/1
3.00 Double W's 9/1
3.35 Voix D'eau 7/2
4.10 Altesse De Guye 5/1
4.45 Fox Norton 11/8
5.20 Authorized Too 8/1
Beverly
2.00 Mazaz 9/4
2.35 Orewa 12/1
3.10 Singeur 8/1
3.45 Motdaw 5/2 NB
4.20 Project Bluebook 5/2
4.55 Jintshi 4/1
5.30 Cabal 8/1
Newmarket
2.10 Shraaoh 7/1
2.45 Sutter County 4/6
3.20 Gifted Master 4/7
3.55 Scrutineer 13/2
4.30 Mahsoob 15/2 3B
5.05 Daqeeq 5/1
5.40 Merhoob 7/1
Kempton
5.50 Hurricane Volta 10/1
6.20 King of Spin 3/1
6.50 Misu Pete 7/1
7.20 Etaad 9/2
7.50 Eton Rambler 12/1
8.20 Mezmaar 13/2
8.50 Rigolleto 11/2
9.20 Showmethewayavrilo 13/2
Tuesday 12 April 2016
Reds Racing Tips 12-04
Morning all,
A day to forget yesterday as I was clearly in need of the run after a break. The NAP ended up a non-runner, the Next Best was a distant second behind a rampant Mountain Bell and Miss van Gogh was disappointing as the 3B.
The best three all come from a good card at Newmarket today and let's hope all my selections fare a bit better than yesterday.
We start with the NAP in the Nell Gwyn Stakes where I really like Nathra. She won with plenty in hand on her first two starts and was only beaten by Minding in her latest appearance. She lost out by four and half lengths that day, but was still well ahead of the re opposing Coolmore. Illuminate is the obvious danger, but she carries a penalty and that may be enough to see her off.
The NB comes from the final race at Newmarket. Jufn won easy as you like last time out, despite doing everything wrong at the start and still being well behind through half way. He finished like a bullet though and if he can sort out his starting efforts, he could well romp away with this.
Finally, we go to the opener where there is a number of interesting runners, including the likes of Lacey's Lane and Swiss Range. The pick however is Golden Reign for William Haggas and Ryan Moore. A full sister to Eastern Belle and a half sister to last year's superstar Golden Horn, she is obviously well-related and the booking of Moore inspires confidence. At 6/1 she's worth a bit of each way thievery!
12-04
Exeter
1.50 Clondaw Fonz 10/1
2.25 Valhalla 5/1
3.00 Umberto D'Olivate 9/2
3.35 Retro Valley 5/1
4.10 Justatenner 4/1
4.45 Star Trouper 5/4
5.20 Carqalin 12/1
5.50 Dicky Bob 5/2
Southwell
2.00 Frosty The Snowman 6/1
2.35 Highwayman 10/3
3.10 Seamster 11/2
3.45 Spring Bird 6/1
4.20 Rocco's Delight 6/5
4.55 Tatting 5/4
5.30 Northside Prince 5/2
Newmarket
2.10 Golden Reign 6/1 3B
2.45 Chief Whip 5/2
3.20 Amazour 10/1
3.55 Mustajeer 4/1
4.30 Nathra 11/4 NAP
5.05 Castle Harbour 5/1
5.40 Jufn 9/2 NB
A day to forget yesterday as I was clearly in need of the run after a break. The NAP ended up a non-runner, the Next Best was a distant second behind a rampant Mountain Bell and Miss van Gogh was disappointing as the 3B.
The best three all come from a good card at Newmarket today and let's hope all my selections fare a bit better than yesterday.
We start with the NAP in the Nell Gwyn Stakes where I really like Nathra. She won with plenty in hand on her first two starts and was only beaten by Minding in her latest appearance. She lost out by four and half lengths that day, but was still well ahead of the re opposing Coolmore. Illuminate is the obvious danger, but she carries a penalty and that may be enough to see her off.
The NB comes from the final race at Newmarket. Jufn won easy as you like last time out, despite doing everything wrong at the start and still being well behind through half way. He finished like a bullet though and if he can sort out his starting efforts, he could well romp away with this.
Finally, we go to the opener where there is a number of interesting runners, including the likes of Lacey's Lane and Swiss Range. The pick however is Golden Reign for William Haggas and Ryan Moore. A full sister to Eastern Belle and a half sister to last year's superstar Golden Horn, she is obviously well-related and the booking of Moore inspires confidence. At 6/1 she's worth a bit of each way thievery!
12-04
Exeter
1.50 Clondaw Fonz 10/1
2.25 Valhalla 5/1
3.00 Umberto D'Olivate 9/2
3.35 Retro Valley 5/1
4.10 Justatenner 4/1
4.45 Star Trouper 5/4
5.20 Carqalin 12/1
5.50 Dicky Bob 5/2
Southwell
2.00 Frosty The Snowman 6/1
2.35 Highwayman 10/3
3.10 Seamster 11/2
3.45 Spring Bird 6/1
4.20 Rocco's Delight 6/5
4.55 Tatting 5/4
5.30 Northside Prince 5/2
Newmarket
2.10 Golden Reign 6/1 3B
2.45 Chief Whip 5/2
3.20 Amazour 10/1
3.55 Mustajeer 4/1
4.30 Nathra 11/4 NAP
5.05 Castle Harbour 5/1
5.40 Jufn 9/2 NB
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