Author: John Burke

Hi all,

Eight days of high-class racing begins today. Group 1 action returns in Britain at Haydock today with its feature race of the year, the Betfair Sprint Cup (3.30). There’s also Group and Listed action from the Merseyside track plus some competitive handicaps, including Betfair Exchange Old Borough Cup Handicap (2:55).

The September Stakes at Kempton (2.05) is one of two Group 3s on a card, the other being the Sirenia Stakes (1:30).  The seven-race card also features the London Mile (handicap) final (2.40) while Ascot seven-race card includes a 1m 4f heritage handicap (3:10) for the three-year-old’s.

The ITV cameras will be covering the best of the action from Haydock, Kempton, and Ascot as part of an eight-race programme.

On Sunday the attention turns to France where the unbeaten puts his reputation on the line on his first start in Group 1 company in the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp (2:48).  He looks set to face Poetic Flare, Snow Lantern and French 1,000 Guineas winner Coeursamba

This side of the Channel Listed Garrowby Stakes which was won last year by Starman is the highlight of a seven-race card on Family Fun Day at York. The rest of the action in Britain is over the jumps with meetings at Fontwell and Perth.

Haydock

2:55 – Betfair Exchange Old Borough Cup Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 6 ½ f

Just the 12 go to post for this year’s renewal of the Old Borough Cup. For what doesn’t look the strongest of renewals.

Indianapolis is well handicapped on his best form but has become disappointing and the reapplication of the visor needs to galvanize him back to life. Stablemate Autumn War has hinted that there’s a handicap to be won with him off around his present mark.

Island Brave last two wins have come over 2m and he’s been running at 2m + this season. He will need a good pace to chase dropped back to 1m 6f but quick ground is a positive. Handy enough mark in the hands of Silvestre De Sousa who is 2-6 when riding for yard in the past 5-years and looks a shade overpriced.

Noble Masquerade has a handy light weight of 8-2 with Hollie Doyle booked for the ride. The 4-year-old has been a steady improver for the fitting of the blinkers on his last three starts and posted a personal best when winning at Windsor 19-days ago. Up 6lb for that win and in a better race but he’s going the right way and the step up to 1m 6f can bring out more improvement.

Verdict: I’m going with the lightly weighted and progressive Noble Masquerade with a saver on Island Brave.

2pts win – Noble Masquerade – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Island Brave – 16/1 @ Bet365

3:30 – Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes (Group 1) – 6f

The forecast fast ground means July Cup winner Starman will go off the hot favourite. I would normally want to take the ‘shortie’ on in a race like this but given he’s the best horse in the race and pretty much ticks all boxes its hard to look beyond him. Maybe worth noting 4-year-olds are 0 winners from 52 runners 10 placed (29% of the total runners) since 2008.

For those looking for an each-way bet on a bigger priced. Summerghand comes into the race in great form and will like the quick ground.

Supremacy hails from the inform Clive Cox yard. The 3-year-old won the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes last season. He has been well beaten on both starts including the July Cup. However, he does go well on quick ground and if bounces back to his juvenile best would have each way claims.

4:45 – Betfair Be Friendly Handicap (Class 2) – 5f

Mondammej needs all the cards to fall right to win but when they do, he will pop up in a race like this.

Jawwaal, twice a winner on quick ground at Doncaster this season, bounced back from a poor run at Ascot two starts back to finish a 1 ¼ length 4^th off 22 at York 17-days ago. Travelled like a career high mark of 99 wasn’t insurmountable last time. The harder they go up front the better his chance. Trainer had two winners at Pontefract last evening.

The speedy front running Jabbarockie seems likely to provide most of the early pace. The 8-year-old won his first two starts this season at Musselburgh & Chester but has three subsequent disappointing efforts to overcome. However, he’s now just 1lb above his last winning mark and contender if bouncing back to his best Quick ground is fine. William Buick is 1-1 on the horse and 3-4 + 11.25 when riding for trainer Eric Alston.

Verdict: If Jawwaal is on a going day he will go close. Jabbarockie has disappointed on his last three starts but better is expected here.  

1pt win – Jawwaal – 4/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Jabbarockie – 20/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Ascot

The ITV cameras are covering two races from Ascot both competitive handicaps.

3:10 – Lavazza Stakes (Heritage Handicap) – 1m 4f

Just the 10 runners have been declared but an intriguing 3-year-old handicap.

Wahraan wasn’t the best away and met trouble in the run 1f out when a 2-length 5^th of 12 at York 14-days ago. The step up to 1m 4f can bring out more improvement in the colt and he looks a worthy favourite.

Champagne Piaff was all the better for his Goodwood seasonal reappearance when winning at Windsor (good to firm) 16-days ago. That success came over 1m 2f but he’s got the scope to improve for the step up to 1m 4f.  Up 5lb for his Windsor win but very much in the mix.

Alfaadhel bounced back from a poor run at Royal Ascot seemingly appreciating the better ground when 2^nd off 11 at Goodwood last time. Travelled through that race like he’s a well handicapped horse and if he stays today’s extra 2f should be there or thereabouts. Trainer Roger Varian has won the race three times since 2014, including the last two.

William Haggas saddles a couple of contenders in Chalk Stream & Candleford. The first named is on the upgrade and bids for the hat trick after wins at York & Ripon. On the latter occasion his beat subsequent Beverley winner Barn Owl by 2 ½ lengths. Up 8lb but should continue to give a good account.  Candleford is one of the least exposed runners in the field, having just had the three starts. Comfortably saw off a subsequent winner when successful in a Windsor novice race (good to firm) 19-days ago. The step up to 1m 4f should suit the progressive colt who he gets the added assistance of 5lb apprentice Adam Farragher in the saddle for his handicap debut.

Verdict: Wahraan is the one to beat and a worthy favourite. However, he faces improvers in Alfaadhel who has stamina to prove. Champagne Piaff is progressive and shouldn’t be underestimated nor should the Haggas pair of Chalk Stream & Candleford who are going the right way.

1pt win – Candleford – 15/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

1pt win – Champagne Piaff – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:45 – Careys Foundation Supporting The Lighthouse Club Handicap (Class 2) – 7f

Previous C&D winner Top Secret was only beaten a nose by an improver and subsequent winner at Newbury last month. Up 2lb for that effort and should go close again. High on the shortlist for a yard whose runners continue to go well.

Documenting won this race 12 months ago off today’s mark. The 8-year-old wasn’t at that level of form on his first three starts this season but turned in a much better effort when a ¾ length 3^rd of 8 at Doncaster three weeks ago. Likely to be spot of for his bid for back-to-back wins in the race.

Cliffs Of Capri likes quick ground and goes very well on Ascot’s straight course. Twice a C&D winner in the past he put in his best effort of the season when a 1 ¾ length 4^th of 19 in the valuable International Handicap over C&D two starts back.

Via Serendipity is another who goes well on the straight course at Ascot. The 7-year-old returned from a short break to win cozily at Windsor last time. Up 4lb for that win but he goes well on quick ground and shouldn’t be far away.

Baashir will appreciate the return to 7f after seemingly not staying the mile at York last time.

Ripp Orf twice a winner over C&D in 2018, including this race, off 6lb higher and a neck second in the 2019 renewal has been a bit of a course specialist in the past. No show on his first start after a 686-day absence 14-days ago. Not sure how much of his old ability remains but he’s a well handicapped horse.

Verdict: Top Secret is at the top his game. Documenting & Ripp Orf are previous winners of the race with the former showing last time that he was returning to form. Cliffs Of Capri & Via Serendipity also go well here and won’t be far away.

1pt win – Top Secret – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Documenting – 15/2 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Kempton

3:15 – Unibet London Mile Series Final Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

A typically competitive renewal of the race with 14 declared to go to post.  

Tahitian Prince twice a C&D winner in 2021, the latter of those wins came off 5lb lower two starts back. Continued his run of good form when a short head 2^nd of 12 at Doncaster last month. In the mix if stall 12 isn’t an inconvenience.

Fantasy Believer made it 3-4 over C&D when coming from an almost impossible position to win in April, off 1lb lower. Not so good on his last three starts on turf but a return to this venue is a big positive for the 4-year-old. Handy draw in stall 5 and should get the good pace he needs. Yard among the winners and he must be high on the short list.

Hieronymus was touched off by Via Serendipity at Windsor last time but he’s 3-7 here at Kempton, including over C&D and should go well again from stall 3.

Thunderclap showed he was well ahead of his mark when making it 2-2 over C&D 10-days ago. Up 6lb in a better race but he’s a 3-year-old going the right way and Saffie Osborne booked to take off a handy 5lb which negates most of his rise in the weights. Looks a big player from stall 4.

Giuseppe Cassioli is 0-4 here, but has placed three times and posted a career best effort when a 1 length 4^th of 8 over C&D 17-days ago. Not out of this off the same mark as last time and interesting that jockey Martin Dwyer comes here rather than ride Top Secret at Ascot.

Verdict: Plenty on the short list. Thunderclap is a progressive 3-year-old. Fantasy Believer goes well over C&D. Although Giuseppe Cassioli has yet to win at Kempton, he ran well here last time and looks for a good run.

1pt win – Thunderclap – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Fantasy Believer – 7/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

The service hasn’t been getting the rub of the green at present. Two big priced second placed efforts over the last few days and if one of those goes in, we’re sitting on a very big profit over. Mind you, can’t complain too much as we did have two nice priced winners at Dundalk yesterday.

There’s plenty of racing across Britain & Ireland on Friday. Haydock stages the second of its three-day Betfair Sprint Cup meeting with the feature race being The Tin Man Handicap (2.20).

Ascot offers some competitive handicaps on its seven-race card while there is also afternoon racing from Newcastle. The Friday action in Britain is completed by Pontefract and Kempton this evening and there are fixtures at Down Royal and Kilbeggan.

Sadly, the field sizes at Haydock & Ascot haven’t held up due to the quickening ground. That won’t worry the connections of fast ground loving horses who don’t always get their ground on this weekend of the year.

The Haydock feature race is one of the races where there is a disappointing sized field – just seven for the Class 2 handicap. That said it’s a competitive race and you can make a good case for six of the seven runners.

A quite day for me on the selections front with just a handful of fancies at Haydock, Ascot and Kilbeggan.

Haydock

2:20 – The Tin Man Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

Mitrosonfire bids for the hat trick after wins at the Shergar Cup and the grey horse handicap at Newmarket 20-days ago. He’s been raised 3lb for that success but he continues to progress with racing. His excellent run will come to an end sooner rather than later but it may not be today. 

Manigordo doesn’t win very often but he’s put in plenty of good efforts this season. He’s been knocking on the door of late. Did best of those racing on the far side when a 3 ½ length 5^th of 20 in the Great St Wilfrid Handicap. He shaped well again last time when a 3 ¼ length 3^rd of 10 at Lingfield 8-days ago. Goes well on quick ground and won’t have a better chance of win this season.

Verdict: Mitrosonfire is the form horse. Whilst the Tim Easterby trained Manigordo has been knocking on the door of late.

1pt win – Manigordo – 11/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Ascot

4:10 – Bateaux London Handicap (Class 4) – 6f

Just the eight go to post for this Class 4 sprint handicap. The market is headed by Prontissimo. The 3-year-old won a Kempton maidenin Apriland posted a personal best back at that track when a 1 ¼ length 2^nd of 9 last month. The front two were nicely clear of the rest so a 4lb rise in the weights for that effort looks warranted. Went close on his handicap debut at Doncaster (soft) two starts back. Both those runs came over 7f but he shouldn’t be inconvenienced by the drop back to 6f. Looks on a good handicap mark if handling today’s much quicker ground.

Louie De Palma might have reached the veteran stage but the 9-year-old showed he was still capable of winning when successful at Windsor (good to firm) 6-days ago. He’s got a 9lb penalty to carry for that success but the former C&D winner has won off much higher marks in his career.

Dancinginthewoods a winner at Newmarket two starts back and showed he remains in good form when a 1 ¼ length 3^rd of 7 back at that venue last month.  Goes well on quick ground but probably needs the first-time hood to eke out the improvement required to win off his career high mark.

Equiano Springs is another who goes well on quick ground. The 7-year-old hasn’t really fired on his six starts this season although his reappearance effort at Hamilton was encouraging enough. He’s dropped 8lb since the start of the season and is now 4lb below last season’s winning mark. Ran well over C&D last season when getting within 1 ¾ lengths of Chil Chil. Ryan Moore is an eyecatching jockey booking and he could be hard to catch if getting out in front.

Verdict: Prontissimo is a progressive 3-year-old who looks on a winnable mark although this is likely to be some of the quickest ground he’s encountered in his short career. Louie De Palma comes into the race after winning at Windsor last Saturday and is a previous C&D winner. However, the biggest threat to Prontissimo could come from Equiano Springs who should be able to dictate the pace from the front.

1pt win – Equiano Springs – 7/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

4:45 – War Horse Memorial Handicap (Class 4) – 7f

Papacito a winner over 7f on his racecourse debut at Salisbury in June returned from 9-week absence to win at Doncaster dropped to 6f. The return to 7f will suit the colt who has scope for plenty of improvement on his handicap debut. Both career wins have come on good to firm going so no problem with the ground for the 3-year-old who is likely to go off a strong favourite.

Another handicap debutant Rogue Bear could be the one to give him most to do. He made a winning racecourse debut over at Doncaster (good to firm) in April and wasn’t disgraced when a 2-length 3^rd of 12 under penalty back there the following month.  The ground looked plenty soft enough for the 3-year-old that day and he should appreciate both today’s quicker ground and the step up to 7f for his handicap debut. Not sure why we haven’t seen him for 111-days but he did win first time up so fitness might be an issue.

Verdict: Rogue Bear is interesting on his handicap debut but its hard to look beyond the claims of another handicap debutante the Roger Varian trained Papacito who looks to have a good chance maintaining his unbeaten record.

Kilbeggan

7:07 – Kilsaran Handicap Chase – 2m 3 ½ f

Funky Dady won a beginners’ chase over C&D last August and made it 2-5 over the larger obstacles when winning a handicap chase at Tipperary two starts back. He put in a career best on RPR’s when a 4 ½ length 4^th of 19 in the Galway Blazers at the Festival last time and this represents a drop in class for the 6-year-old. Seemed effective enough on good ground at Galway but he might just prefer a bit more ease.

Mon Storm is an interesting contender who won here over hurdles two years ago and goes very well on a sound surface. He comes into the race in winning form having been successful over hurdles at Down Royal 7-days ago.  This is just his second start over fences, won a Sligo beginners chase, seeing off the Willie Mullins trained Pont Aven in the process. The runner-up is now officially rated 139 so he looks on a decent mark here off 121. His sole success over the larger obstacles was over two years ago. So, although he lacks the chasing experience of his rivals, I can see him going well. His record when racing within 25-days of his last start is 5 wins from 11 runs +40.5 compared to 0 wins from 13 runs.

Verdict: We probably haven’t seen the best of Funky Dady over fences just yet. This is drop-in class after his run for the 6-year-old after his run at the Galway Festival. Mon Storm a four-time winner over hurdles is having only his second start over fences at the age of 10. The good ground is a big positive and despite his inexperience over the larger obstacles.  I fancy he can run a big race today.

1pt win – Mon Storm – 11/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Once Yermanthere failed to land a gamble at Gowran Park the writing was on the wall. Court Of Appeal found his race coming to quick and Bankiedoodie ran ok but without ever looking like he would take of advantage of his low mark.

There’s Group action in Britain today as Salisbury hosts the Dick Poole Fillies’ Stakes (2.35). Last year’s race saw Happy Romance get the better of Alcohol Free. This year’s race has attracted a field of 12 juvenile fillies and looks an up to standard renewal.

It’s the first day of Haydock’s three-day Betfair Sprint Cup meeting and there also jumps action at Sedgefield and all-weather action at Dundalk.

The evening’s action sees the final round of the Racing League at Newcastle and there are also meetings at Chelmsford and Clonmel.

I’m once again heading across the Irish Sea for today’s selections and there’s a fair few that I fancy at both Clonmel & Dundalk.

Clonmel

5:45 – Dare To Flare bounced back to form when winning at Naas (soft) 11-days ago. He’s only up 4lb for that win which is fair but the ground is likely to be lot quicker here.

Ratib drops back in trip but is respected in the first-time blinkers.

Coill Na Sionainne has been in great form this season she bounced back from a poor run at the Curragh when 3^rd of 16 in a competitive handicap at the Galway Festival last time. She goes well on a sound surface and looks one to beat for a yard who had a winner at Gowran Park yesterday.

1pt win – Coill Na Sionainne – 5/1 @ Bet365

6:15 – Han Solo finished a ¼ length 3^rd of 15 at Limerick two starts back. Not in the same form back at the same venue next time but he’s been given a 60-day break since that run that suggests that was something was amiss last time. Dylan Brown McMonagle is back in the saddle and if he can bounce back here then he will take some beating.

1pt win – Han Solo – 6/1 @ Bet365

Dundalk

4:00 – Linus Larrabee can be a tricky ride but he goes well here. A winner over C&D last November off 2lb lower. He ran arguably just as well when a 1 ¼ length 4^th of 12 on his next start here and could well have won but for hanging 1f out. Returned from an 8-month absence when down the field at the Curragh 25-days ago. Should be sharper for that run and a return to Dundalk is a positive. The blinkers that were left off last time are reapplied and better run can be expected from the 4-year-old.   

1pt win – Linus Larrabee – 10/1 @ Bet365

5:00 – Trainer Edward Lynam saddles a couple of live contenders in Collective Power & Resourceful Man. I just prefer the latter who is slightly lower drawn than his stablemate and gets the addition of the first cheekpieces. He’s run well on both starts at the track and finished a ¼ length 4^th of 11 over 7f two starts back.  Has a poor run at Cork 26-days ago on soft ground to overcome but back on the all-weather could see the 3-year-old bounce back to form. Collective Power finished runner-up in C&D nursery last December, He shaped with a bit of promise when 5^th of 14 at Cork on his seasonal reappearance but struggled on soft ground at the Curragh 12-days ago.

Betrayed has had a busy summer but she’s been running well on the grass winning at Sligo last month.  Back down to the same mark as when winning over C&D in March. Capable of a going well but stall 10 could have been better.

Brokers Tip is back on the all-weather for the first time since winning a C&D nursery last November. Has struggled on turf this summer so needs a return to the polytrack to galvanize him back to form.  If it does, he’s 5lb below his last winning mark.

1pt win – Resourceful Man – 8/1 @ Bet365

5:30 – Brave Display is a three-time course winner, including twice over C&D. The 7-year-old has taken advantage of a drop in the weights by winning at the Curragh & Down Royal this season. Still competitively weighted on his best back form and very useful 5lb apprentice Sam Ewing is up for the first today.

1pt each way – Brave Display – 18/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

6:00 – Trainer Gerard O’Leary is 2-4 with his runners in the past 14-days and he could have another winner here with Blastofmagic. The 7-year-old ran well here over the winter without winning but is now 5lb below his last winning mark on grass. Best form has come over 5f but he does stay 6f and given the yard form and his draw in stall one he’s a strong contender

Dee Sprinter is another with a low draw is stall 2.  He’s 0-25 on grass but he’s 1-2 here at Dundalk winning on his first visit to the venue last November.  Has now dropped to 9lb below his last winning mark and can’t be totally ruled out.

1pt win – Blastofmagic – 8/1 @ Ladbrokes

1pt win – Dee Sprinter – 12/1 @ Bet365

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Three competitive handicaps at Gowran Park have tempted me in today.

Gowran Park

2:05 – The inform Ger Lyons yard saddle Split Passion who must be respected. Flying Rock didn’t get the clearest runs when 4^th of 8 here over a mile last time and should be there or thereabouts again. Preference though is for Yermanthere has shaped with enough promise on three starts in maiden company to think he can win a race or two. Handicap debut off a workable mark and can go well.

1pt win – Yermanthere – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:05 – No Show a good 3^rd of 20 at Naas in April, bounced back to form after a couple of poor runs when 4^th of 17 here over slightly further three weeks ago. Has been a given a chance by the handicapper and shouldn’t be far away. Blankiedoodie returned to form when a 2-length 3^rd of 14 at Bellewstown 8-days ago. The 8-year-old isn’t the most consistent of horses but he’s now 12lb below his last winning mark and has the able assistance of Dylan Browne McMonagle in the saddle. Phoenix Open returned to form when 2^nd of 15 here two starts back and showed he remained in form when 4^th of 14 at Dundalk over slightly shorter last time. On a handy mark when all the cards fall right.

1pt win – Blankiedoodie – 5/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:35 – What A Feeling put in a career best on RPR’s when just touched off at the Curragh 19-days ago. Up just 1lb for that effort and should go close again.  Court of Appeal had Kaaranah ¾ length back in third when winning a Leopardstown handicap two starts back. The latter gets a 4lb pull in the weights here so there shouldn’t be much between the pair again. Court of Appeal has since gone on to finish a 3-length 8^th of 15 at Navan 4-days ago. In third and 2 lengths ahead that day was the Red Heel. On a strict interpretation of that form the filly should finish ahead again but Court Of Appeal was very unlucky in the run. He was still going well two out when not getting a run and had to be switched at the furlong mark. He finished with plenty of running left and can finish ahead of his old rival with more luck in running.

1pt win – Court Of Appeal – 5/1 @ Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

I was bitterly disappointed that Double Or Bubble could only finish second but Atalanta’s Boy got off on level terms to win at 10/1 so it was profitable day.

I will be back in the tipping hot seat on Thursday but I do have a couple of selections from this afternoon’s meeting at Ripon.

The best of the Bank Holiday flat action is at Ripon with the British Stallion Studs EBF Ripon Champion Two Yrs Old Trophy Stakes (Listed Race) (3:05) the highlight of a seven-race card at the “garden racecourse”. There should be a big holiday crowd at Cartmel for a valuable seven race card and its last meeting of 2021.

Ripon

3:05 – British Stallion Studs EBF Ripon Champion Two Yrs Old Trophy Stakes (Listed Race) – 6f

Hellomydarlin showed improved form when a 3 ¾ length 3^rd of 20 under top-weight on her nursery debut at York 12 -days ago. Prior to that she run twice in Group races in France. Brings the best form to the race and will be tough to beat.

Atomic Lady improved on her previous good form when a neck 2^nd of 20 in valuable sales race at York last time. She won here over 5f in June so the track clearly suits and she remains progressive.

Taj Alriyadh made it 3-3 when winning over C&D 16-days ago. This is a step up in class for the Karl Burke trained colt but he’s on the upgrade and looks worth his place here.

Wonderful World finished two lengths behind Hellomydarlin at York but is much worse off at the weights today. However, his effort can be marked up and he did best of those drawn more towards the stands side.

Verdict: We know Atomic Lady acts well here but Hellomydarlin brings the best form into the race and although she faces several unexposed juveniles can win this.

1pt win – Hellomydarlin – 3/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

3:35 – Ripon Rowels Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

Most of the eight runners come into the race in some sort of form and case can be made for plenty of them.

Garden Oasis had Kettle Hill a head back in second when winning at York last month but. The winner is 4lb worse of with the runner up here but has since gone onto win over C&D 16-days ago.

Kettle Hill ran that day like he was ahead of his mark and looks a worthy favourite but I’m just wondering whether this track will suit his hold up style.

Garden Oasis had Copper And Five a neck back in second over C&D last time and is 1lb worse off here. There shouldn’t be much between the pair again. For his age Copper And Fire doesn’t have a lot of miles under the clock and could be capable of a bit better.

Challet gained his second win of the season when winning over C&D last week. Has a 5lb penalty to carry for that success but given his liking for the track he can’t be ruled out in a better race. Made all to win last time so his wide draw would be a slight concern.

1pt win – Copper And Five – 9/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

It’s been a great two months with over 80pts profit since June 25^th but Saturday was truly dreadful. I can only apologize for what was poor days analysis, never mind the tipping, which made for grim viewing.

I was tempted to pull up sticks for the week after yesterday’s showing but there’s a few good races on Sunday at Goodwood and nice-looking Class 2 handicap at Yarmouth to get stuck in. So, there is still a chance we can end the week on a profitable note.

The Group 3 Supreme Stakes (4.00) is Sunday’s feature race and completes three days of racing at Goodwood. There may only be six runners in the race but you can make some sort of case for all of them.

Goodwood

2:15 – tote.co.uk Handicap (Class 2) – 6f

Atalanta’s Boy is 4-6 over C&D, including this race last year off 5lb lower and his only two poor performances have come in the Stewards Cup. Today’s smaller field will suit but the 6-year-old has got propensity to miss the start. If he gets off on level terms then he’s got a good chance.

Treacherous won the Stewards Cup consolation race over C&D last season, off 6lb lower. That was his second win over C&D, both on good to firm ground. Down the field in this year’s race on soft ground but he bounced back to his best when a short head 2^nd of 14 in the Fitzdares Sprint Series Final at Windsor He’s been nudged up 3lb for that effort which makes life tougher but the cheekpieces are applied for the first time. Needs all the cards fall right but if they do, he can win.

2pts win – Treacherous – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Atalanta’s Boy – 10/1 @ Bet365 or 9/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:00 – Weatherbys Hamilton Supreme Stakes (Group 3) – 7f

There doesn’t look to be much in the way of pace which means Mehmento is likely to get an uncontested lead. The lack of pace probably won’t suit Onassis who normally races off the pace and may want an easier surface. Rhoscolyn is another who may prefer to get his toe in. He’s an improving 3-year-old though and goes well here having won a handicap over C&D in May and then put in a career best effort when runner-up in the Summer Mile here last time.

Double Or Bubble is lightly raced for her age and put in an excellent effort when dropping down to 6f to win a Listed race at Pontefract 14-days ago. No issues with the return to 7f and she’s 4-6 on good or quicker ground. There is plenty in the 4-year-old’s favour today and she must have a great chance.  

Tactical is another suited by quick ground but he comes into the race on the back off a poor effort in the Group 2 Hungerford Stakes at Newbury last time. The first-time blinkers are applied today and if the headgear has the desired effect, he’s a contender.

Toro Strike is another who is very effective on a sound surface. A previous C&D winner, his form figures over 7f on good/good to firm ground are 311. The 4-year-old wasn’t disgraced when a 3 ¼ length 6^th of 8 in the Group 2 Lennox Stakes over C&D last time. The return to quicker ground is a positive and he’s likely to be ridden prominently so can’t be discounted.

2pts win – Double Or Bubble – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

4:35 – Chichester City Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 2f

Just Fine relished the drop back to 1m 2f when comfortably seeing off Barn Owl at Sandown (good to firm) last month. The runner-up won a valuable handicap at Beverley yesterday so the form looks solid enough. He’s been raised 8lb for that win but he’s progressive and capable of better.

Highland Rocker bounced back from a poor run in the London Gold Cup to finish a 4 ½ length 4^th of 10 in a warm Newmarket Handicap last time. The form has worked out well. The winner has since gone on to win a Group 2 at Deauville, the second has won a Group 3 at Haydock and the third won a Class 2 handicap at Sandown last weekend. He can race off the same mark today and looks a big danger to Just Fine.

Sir Rumi will like the ground but doesn’t have the upside of Just Fine or Highland Rocker. Without Revenge hasn’t built on Newmarket win in May but he does get the addition of the first-time tongue tie today.

Mr Excellency improved for the step up to 1m 2f when winning at Newmarket & Chepstow. Struggled when stepped up to a Class 2 handicap over C&D last time but it was good to soft and he got involved in an unsustainable pace duel out in front that day. Not sure he’s up to this class but he’s the only front runner among the five runners so should get the run of the race.

1pt win – Mr Excellency – 15/2 @ Bet365 or 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Yarmouth

2:05 – Moulton Nurseries Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 2f

Just the six have been declared to go to post and it’s another race where there doesn’t seem to be much in the way of pace.

Finest Sound had two of today’s rivals Dawaan and Spanish Archer behind when a ¾ length 3^rd of 8 at Doncaster. He was better placed than those two in a slowly run race. That was his first run beyond an extended mile but the race was slowly run so he’s still must prove his stamina for 1m 2f. Dawaan ran his best race on grass when 4^th of 20 in the John Smiths Cup at York two starts back but he remains 0-5 on turf and looks vulnerable if the race his steadily run again. The same remark applies to Spanish Archer who needs a strong pacer to chase but is now 3lb below his last winning mark.

Sky Defender can go forward and he seems at his best when he can get out in the front. Not been in the best of form of late and was very disappointing at Sandown last Saturday. Needs to bounce back but he’s now 5lb below his last winning mark.

Protected Guest has won the last two running’s of the race but he hasn’t beaten a rival on his last two starts. Needs a return to the venue and the first time cheekpieces to bring him back to his best. All five of his career wins have come in field sizes 8 or less so today’s small field is a positive though.

The City’s Phantom is lightly raced for a 4-year-old and is likely to be ridden prominently here. He made 2-2 over C&D when winning here on his seasonal reappearance and improved again when a head 2^nd of 8, off 5lb higher at Leicester. Returned from a two month lay off but ran like something was amiss when last of six at Newmarket 22-days ago. His well being must be taken on trust after that performance but he looks on a competitive mark, if bouncing back.

1pt win – The City’s Phantom – 8/1 @ Bet365 or 7/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Saturday’s highlights include a second day of action at Goodwood with the Group 2 Celebration Mile (3.35) worth £125,000 is highlight of a valuable card which also includes two Group 3s, the £100,000 March Stakes (3.00) and £60,000 Prestige Stakes (1.50).

The Celebration Stakes see’s the return of the smart Benbatl who will be one of the leading fancies for the Goodwood feature race.

The ITV cameras will be broadcasting four races from Goodwood plus the best of the action from Newmarket and Beverley where the feature race is the Listed Beverley Bullet (3:15). The last two winners of the ‘Bullet’ Dakota Gold and Judicial are among the 12 declare runners. 

As ever I’m looking at the all the ITV races in this Saturday preview beginning at the principal meeting Goodwood.

Goodwood

The going at Goodwood is good, good to firm in places and with the weather set fair they be racing on good quick ground.

1:50 – tote Prestige Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) – 7f

Eleven juveniles are set to go to post. Hello You has been keeping good company since winning at Wolverhampton on her racecourse debut. Finishing runner-up in the Albany at Royal Ascot and third in a Group 2 at Newmarket. Only 6^th on first start for a new yard in the Lowther Stakes at York last week. Shaped last time like a step up to 7f will suit but she does need to settle better than she did at York.

There are plenty of unexposed fillies in the field who will test Hello You including the well bred Daneh who followed up her racecourse debut win at Kempton with a solid third in a Group 3 at Deauville last time.

Mark Johnson saddled the winner of this in 2015 and runs Value Theory who won a Newmarket novice (good to firm) on her second start and improved further when a 2 ¼ length 3^rd of 10 in the Group 3 Sweet Solara Stakes back at the same venue.  Handy draw in stall three for a front runner but could face competition for the lead.

Ralph Beckett won this with Antonia De Vega in 2018 and has Prosperous Voyage here. A winner at Epsom two starts back. The daughter of Zoffany improved again to finish runner-up under a penalty at Chester last time. Open to further improvement and she should be fine on the track.

Tinderbox won at Kempton last time and the runner-up won easily at Newmarket yesterday. The Andrew Balding trained Wilderness Girl won over C&D maiden (good to soft) at the Qatar Goodwood Festival and should be capable of winning more races.

Mise En Scene and Clitheroe are the least experienced having just had the one run each. Mise En Scene won at Haydock on her racecourse debut and is open to further progress. Clitheroe finished runner-up at Newbury on her first start. The daughter of Ribchester was a very expensive £590,000 Breeze Up purchase.  Might well have made a winning racecourse debut at Newbury but for running green in the final stages. Should be sharper now and today’s extra furlong is set to suit.

Verdict: A very interesting renewal. The lightly raced Mise En Scene and Clitheroe are capable of better. As is Value Theory who has a handy low draw and could be hard to pass if she was to get out in front.

1pt win – Value Theory – 15/2 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

1pt win – Clitheroe – 7/1 @ Ladbrokes

2:25 – tote Quadpot Starts Here Handicap (Class 2) – 7f

A slightly disappointing field for this handicap. Clive Cox has the font two in the market with Aratus & Dance Fever.

Aratus landed the hat trick when winning on his handicap debut at Newbury. The colt showed a nice turn of foot to take up it up a furlong out and was always holding the closing runner-up. Suited by a sound surface and will be hard to beat off just 4lb higher.

Like his stablemate Dance Fever goes well on quick ground. A ½ length 3^rd of 19 behind Danyah in the International Handicap at Ascot two starts back. He also ran well under a big weight when a ½ length runner-up behind an improver at Doncaster last time.

Persuasion a juvenile winner at the track looked set for a good season when beating 12 rivals at Haydock on his seasonal return in April. Was said to have burst a blood vessel when down the field in the Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot last time. Now 3lb higher than for his Haydock win but not of this if reproducing his best.

Kimfive is having his first start for David Bridgewater. The 7-year-old is a former C&D winner and ran his best race when beaten a short head in last season’s Stewards Cup, off 4lb higher. Well handicapped if at his best. Trainer is better known for his National Hunt horses but he does have a good record with his stable switchers – 19 winners from 91 runners 21% +32.13.

Verdict: Kimifive is well handicapped if the change in stable has freshened him up. Persuasion is better than he was able to show last time and has won here in the past. The Clive Cox pair of Aratus and Dance Fever have obvious claims and preference is for the former if he handles the track.

1pt win – Persuasion – 10/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

3:00 – tote March Stakes (Group 3) (In Memory Of John Dunlop) – 1m 6f

This looks a weak renewal of the March Stakes with a likely odds-on favourite.

Nagano won a competitive handicap here over 1m 4f last time. Seems ikely to stay beyond 1½m and remains open to plenty of improvement. The ground was soft last time and if he’s as effective on quicker ground is the one to beat.

Dancing King is a consistent and useful 3-year-old. He looks set to lead again and will be hard to pass if his jockey gets the fractions right. That said he’s not as open to as much improved as Nagano.

3:35 – tote Celebration Mile (Group 2) (Class 1) – 1m

The race sees the return of the high class Benbatl who hasn’t raced for almost a year. Drying ground is a big positive for the 7-year-old who has won off a lay off in the past and remains the one to beat.

Duke Of Hazzard won this in 2019 and his form figures here on good or quicker ground are 1112. His only poor run at Goodwood came in this race last year but the ground was soft that day which wouldn’t have suited. Not at his best so far this season although he did run with a bit more promise at York last Saturday and a return to Goodwood could see him back to his best.

Chindit, a very useful juvenile, looked set for a good season when coming from behind to win the Group 3 Greenham Stakes at Newbury on his seasonal reappearance. Fourth in the 2,000 Guineas on his next start. He’s been highly tried in Group 1 company since at Royal Ascot and when a 3-length 5th of 8 behind Palace Pier in the Jacques le Marois at Deauville last time. Slightly calmer waters and if handles the Goodwood undulations won’t be far away.

Mutasaabeq an impressive winner at Newmarket’s Craven Meeting. He was well fancied for the 2,000 Guineas (6/1) but found the race to hot, on just his third career start, finishing 7th of 14. Ran no sort of race in the Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot. Ground versatile, he should stay a mile and although he needs to improve to win, but could yet fulfil his early potential.

The 3-year-old Perotto goes well here, twice a winner in the past, and he wasn’t disgraced when 4th of 7 in his first run in pattern company over C&D two starts back. The return to a sounder surface suited him even better when a 1 length 3rd of 10 in the Group 3 Sovereign Stakes at Salisbury 16-days ago. Needs to improve again but he’s a 3-year-old going the right way.

Verdict: All eyes on the smart Benbatl on his return from a long absence. Chindit and Mutasaabeq are big threats although I’m not sure the former will like the track. No issues with the track or quick ground for Perotto or previous race winner Duke Of Hazzard.

1pt each way – Duke Of Hazzard – 12/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

1pt win – Perotto – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Paddy Power

Beverley

2:05 – William Hill Silver Cup Handicap (Class 2) – 1m 2f

Barn Owl a Ripon winner in June has finished runner-up on his last two starts. Needs the addition of the first time cheekpieces to eke out some improvement to win this. Looks plenty short enough in the overnight betting and worth taking on.

Titian is having his first start of the season and is bred to stay 1m 2f as 3-year-old. Might prefer a softer surface though.

Mark Johnson saddles two in His Excellency & March Law. The latter is having his first start for 418-days but is interesting on his 2^nd of 8 to Battleground in last year’s Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot. He didn’t have to reach that level of form when winning a match at Ayr. Not sure what’s kept him off the track for so long but he’s bred to improve for 1m 2f as a 3-year-old.

Farhan looked set for a good season when beaten a nose on his seasonal return at Salisbury in May and wasn’t disgraced although not at the level of his Salisbury form when 4^th of 10 at York 12-days later. Back to form after a 12-week layoff when a neck 2^nd of 7 at Sandown last time. Handicapped to go close but may be better with more ease in the ground.

Life On The Rocks represents Richard Fahey who saddled the winner of this in 2016 & 2017. The colt showed ability on his first three starts for Kevin Ryan in maiden/novice company.  Caught the eye when 3^rd of 6 at Ripon on his stable debut 14-days ago. Might not have been totally at home at the track that day and wasn’t subjected to hard race when his jockey realized his chance had gone. Remains unexposed, is suited by quick ground and looks on a good mark off 76.

Verdict: At the prices I’m happy to take on Barn Owl. I’m not sure the quick ground will suit Titian or Farhan. Life On The Rocks looks to have the most scope for improvement off his present mark and has a good chance of giving trainer Richard Fahey a third win in the race. March Law returns from a long absence but must be considered a strong contender.

1pt win – March Law – 9/1 @ Bet365

3:15 – William Hill Beverley Bullet Sprint Stakes (Listed Race) – 5f

The draw has been important consideration when it comes to finding the winner of the Beverley Bullet. Of the last 13 winners of the race, ten of them were drawn in the first four stalls. That’s 10 winners from 48 runners + 31.5 20 placed. As a comparison those drawn five plus have produced 3 winners from 95 runners -73.5 18 placed.  

At the head of the ante post betting is the admirable Judicial (5) trained by Julie Camacho. The 9-year-old bounced back to form when winning a Listed race at Chester 27-days ago. The drying ground will suit and he won the race in 2019. He looks a worthy favourite and granted a favourable draw is the one to beat.

William Haggas saddles Hurricane Ivor (12) and he’s very interesting after his effort in a valuable sprint handicap at York last week, A stiff 5f should really suit the unexposed 4-year-old but his wide draw looks a negative.

Dakota Gold (10) won last year’s race but it was soft ground that day and he’s a much better horse when he can get his toe in and only finished runner-up to Judicial at Chester last time.

Lampang (2) is suited to quick ground, will be more at home in a smaller field and has had much better luck with the draw today.

Tarboosh (9) tends hit form in the second half of the season and nine of his twelve career wins have come from August onwards. A dual C&D winner he finished 5^th in last year’s race.

Tis Marvellous (6) was sent off 2/1 favourite when a close-up 5^th in the race in 2019 and was bit unlucky as he didn’t get any sort of run on the far rail. Comes into race in winning form after a 5f handicap success at the Shergar Cup.

Significantly (3) runner up to the smart Creative Force and Dragon Symbol in the spring and improved again for the return to handicap company when landing two 5f handicaps at Ascot. Slowly away and had little chance thereafter when only 4^th of 8 back at Ascot last time. Better than he was able to show last time and has nice low draw to work with here.  Might be better with some juice in the ground

Justanotherbottle (1) ran away with the Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon last time. The first-time blinkers had the desired effect there and if the headgear continues to work he’s not out of this from his rail draw.

Ostilio (4) is slowly adapting to going sprinting but seems to be slowly getting the hang of it. Was set too much to do when a 3 ¾ length 9^th of 22 over 5 ½ at York 10-days ago. Good draw but may need an extra furlong and easier surface to score.

Verdict: if it wasn’t for his wide draw, I would strongly fancy Hurricane Ivor. Dakota Gold surely wants more ease in the ground. There are no going or draw concerns for Judicial who must have a great chance of winning this race for a second time.  Lampang will like the ground and has a handy low draw. Another with a good draw is Significantly and if the ground isn’t too quick the 3-year-old won’t be far away.

1pt win – Judicial – 7/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Newmarket

2:45 – Close Brothers Hopeful Stakes (Listed Race) (Class 1) – 6f

Tabdeed a Group 3 winner at Newbury last season and was a close-up third in the same race last month. The one to beat back down into Listed company here.

Khaadem would go closeif reproducing last year’s best form when finishing 4^th in both the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot and in the July Cup over C&D. Not at that level of form this season and needs the first-time blinkers to galvanize him back to his best. Return to quick ground is a positive.

Chiefofchiefs must be respected on his excellent 5^th of 22 in the Stewards Cup and 4^th of 21 in the Wokingham Handicap. The quick ground will suit and if they go hard up front the 8-year-old could get into the places from off the pace.

Royal Scimitar is another stepping out of handicap company. The 3-year-old caught the eye when a ½ length 4^th of 17 over C&D two starts back. The drop back to sprinting has seemed to suit him. Missed the start badly at the Shergar Cup last time but still ran a cracker to finish a ½ length 3^rd of 9 . The good to soft ground wouldn’t have suited him at Ascot and he will be better suited by a return to quick ground. Remains unexposed as a sprinter and although he does need to improve to beat the likes of Tabdeed he could be capable of doing so. Looks set for a big run for the inform Clive Cox yard.

Adaay To Remember made it 2-4 when winning on her handicap debut over C&D 28-days ago. She did hang markedly left a furlong out but still ran out a comfortable 3 ½ length winner. Maybe it was quick ground that led to her waywardness last time, if it was then it be a worry today. That said she’s filly on the upgrade and whilst she needs to improve again it can’t be ruled out given her lightly raced profile.

Verdict: An interesting contest. Tabdeed, a Group 3 winner last season has the strongest form claims. Khaadem would go close if reproducing his 2020 July Cup C&D or Diamond Jubilee performances and is interesting in the first-time blinkers. Adaay to Remember is a filly inform and can’t be ruled out although she needs to improve again to win. Royal Scimitar is another inform contender and the quick ground is a definite plus for the 3-year-old.

1pt win – Khaadem – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Cheers

John

Hi all,

A cracking Friday evening card at the Curragh is the highlight of a busy day of racing both sides of the Irish Sea. The highlights of an eight-race card at the Curragh are three Group 3’s, two of them juvenile contests, and the 27 runner Paddy Power sponsored Irish Cambridgeshire.  I have had a look some of the Curragh races and one at Thirsk.

Curragh

4:45 – Manguard Plus Irish EBF Flame Of Tara Stakes (Group 3) (Fillies) – 1m

Albula created a good impression when winning a Naas maiden (1m) 25-days ago. Back in 4^th that day was Magical Lagoon who was much shorter in the betting that day. Both fillies are open to further improvement and I would expect the winner to uphold the Naas form. It’s worth noting Magical Lagoon does hold a Group 1 entry and trainer Jessica Harrington has saddled the winner of the race twice since 2014.

Aidan O’Brien has saddled the winner of this race three times in the past ten years. He saddles the once raced Kiss You Later and newcomer Lullaby. The first named finished 7^th on her racecourse debut here over 7f last month. Today’s longer trip will suit her and I expect her to have improved plenty for that experience. Interesting that Aidan throws in Lullaby in here for her racecourse debut.  It will be a tough ask for the daughter of Galileo to win but if she did, would be a very smart filly.

We haven’t seen She’s Trouble since she won a maiden here over 6f, 96-days ago. She had the useful Agartha back in third that day. She’s gets the first time cheekpieces today and is another open to improvement for the step up in trip. The ground was heavy when she won her maiden so she must prove she’s as effective on today’s quicker ground.

5:15 – Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes (Group 3) – 1m 1f

Champers Elysees is top on official ratings and the one to beat if back to her best form of last season. Has yet to hit form on four starts this season and it’s her first start beyond 1m but she should stay today’s 1f longer trip.

Shale was a high-class juvenile winning the Group 1 Moyglare Stakes here last September. Another who has yet to recapture last season’s best form but a 4 ½ length 6^th of 8 last time in the Group 1 Pretty Polly here was a small step back in the tight direction for the 3-year-old.

Oodnadatta was another useful juvenile last season and she finished a 2 ½ length third to Shale in last season’s Moyglare Stakes. She likely needed her seasonal reappearance in the Pretty Polly and then unseated her rider at the start next time. Came with a promising run two out but possibly didn’t see out 1m 2f on yielding ground when a 3-length 4^th of 12 behind Earlswoof here last time. Drop in trip looks a plus and she’s well suited to a sound surface. Her trainer Jessica Harrington has won the race three times in the past ten years.

The remaining fillies need to find plenty of improvement to win. I Siyou Baby steps into pattern company for the first time and is bidding for the four timer, after two wins in handicap company. She has 21lb to find with Champers Elysees on Official Ratings but is going the right way and her improvement may not have levelled out yet.

5:45 – Heider Family Stables Round Tower Stakes (Group 3) – 6f

Ladies Church looked a useful juvenile when winning at Naas last month.  The daughter of Churchill only had to be pushed out to in that day and remains open to further improvement for her step up to 6f. Acts well on a sound surface and won’t be far away.

Tom Dascombe brings over Sam Maximus who comes into the race with the best form. A quick ground Haydock winner on his racecourse debut. He’s since gone onto run a cracker in finishing ½ length behind Lusail and Asymmetric in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket before finishing a length 4^th of 10 in Group 2 at Deauville (soft) last time. A return to a sounder surface looks a positive for the colt.

Sacred Bridge has won all three starts. She beat Agartha on her racecourse debut at Naas and has continued to improve with each run. Looked a smart filly when winning a valuable sales race at Naas last time and deserves her place in Group company.

Cowboy Justice won a maiden over 7f here 19-days ago. Like most of these he holds Group 1 entries in the big autumn juvenile contests. He looks an excellent prospect and it’s Interesting that Jessica Harrington drops the colt back in trip here against what looks some speedy 2-year-old’s.

6:15 – TRI Equestrian Handicap – 6f

Goodnight Girl comes into the race on a long losing run but is a useful handicapper when at her best as she showed when a ¾ length 2^nd of 17 over C&D (good to firm) in June. She’s 2lb higher than that day but a capable apprentice takes off a handy 5lb.

Both Lord Dudley and dual course winner Pretty Boy Floyd come into the race in good form and should be there or thereabouts again.

Grammata was a strong finishing 3^rd of 19 in the valuable Scurry Handicap here over 6 ½ f two starts back. However, she was very disappointing at Naas 25-days ago. Each way claims if back to her best here.

Dandyville has won two of his last three starts. The 3-year-old showed a good attitude to get up on the line at Naas last month. Has been raised 8lb for that success which makes life tougher but he’s going the right way and a stiff 6f on a sound surface are his optimum conditions.

1pt win – Dandyville – 13/2 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

6:45 – Paddy Power Irish Cambridgeshire (Premier Handicap) – 1m

Ante post favourite Toshizou returned from a 4-month absence with an eyecatching ½ length 4^th of 13, on his handicap debut, over C&D 19-days ago. The 3-year-old didn’t get the clearest of passages, two out that day and would have finished closer if he had. He’s lightly raced, open to more improvement and is high on the shortlist if stall 18 isn’t an inconvenience. His stablemate Music To My Ears hasn’t built on the promise of her C&D win and head 2^nd of 17 here over 7f last summer. However, she’s now 4lb below that latter effort and is very well suited to a strongly run race.

First reserve Turbulence was ½ length in front of Toshizou last time and would be a contender again if getting a run here.

Eagles Flight was 2 lengths further back in 6^th but wasn’t well placed in a steadily run race.  A stronger gallop will see him to better advantage and he’s not easily discounted.  

Moddy Poddle comes into the race seeking a four timer after a good win at Killarney just 8-days ago A 7lb rise for that win in a deeper race makes life harder although Siobhan Rutledge does take off 7lb. Given her present form the 3-year-old is a very strong contender, if this race doesn’t come to quick.

I have feeling there is a big performance to be had from Big Baby Bull off his present mark. The 5-year-old shaped nicely for this when runner-up at Gowran Park 16-days ago.  He won a 7f handicap here last summer off 1lb higher and reproduction of that run would see him in the mix, although stall 30 is off-putting.

Lust made all to win a 7f handicap here 97-days ago. She could improve for a return to a mile but quick ground would be an unknown for the 3-year-old.

Zozimus was running well in the spring over 1m 2f. The drop to a mile looks a good move and he looks on a handy mark but he does have a 138-day absence to overcome.

Pierre Lapin has had just the one start since joining the Ado McGuiness yard from Roger Varian. Looked an exciting prospect as a juvenile winning both starts including the Group 2 Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury. Lost his way last season but there was encouragement to be gleaned from his stable debut at Naas last month.

Johnny Murtagh saddled the Ebor winner on Saturday and he’s got a live chance of another big win with Carrytheone. The 4-year-old has only had the five starts but has already won twice over C&D with the last of those wins coming 335-days ago. Has a long absence to overcome here and is 6lb higher than for his last win but there should be more to come from him as a 4-year-old and if he’s ready roll looks the one to beat.

Verdict: Toshizou ‘s claims are clear to see. Eagles Flight will appreciate the forecast strong gallop. However, preference is for Carrytheone & Moddy Poddle each way with Sky Bet paying a generous 7 places.

1pt each way – Carrytheone – 10/1 @ Sky Bet (paying 7 places 1/5 0dds)

1pt each way – Moddy Poddle – 16/1 @ Sky Bet (paying 7 places 1/5 0dds)

7:45 – Bord Na Mona Recycling Apprentice Handicap – 7f

Parkers Hill has improved with each of his three starts this season and is now 1lb below his last winning mark. Best form has come at 6f and his stamina for a stiff 7f is still to be proven but at least he’s in form, goes on a sound surface and on a good mark. Yard had a winner at Bellewstown this week. He can get the better of 11 race maiden She’s In The Game who’s knocking on the door having finished runner-up on her last three starts, including here over 6f two weeks ago.

1pt win – Parkers Hill – 8/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

Thirsk

2:40 – Woven shaped with promise on his first three starts for new trainer Michael Dods. Looked as good as ever when a 1 ¼ length 4^th of 18 at York in May, off 2lb higher. Probably found 7f stretching his stamina at Newcastle time. Return to sprinting will be more to his liking and the harder they go up front the better his chance. Looks set for a good run and rates the pick ahead of previous C&D winner Rathbone who ran as well as ever when runner-up to Great Ambassador at Newmarket 13-days ago.

1pt win – Woven – 10/1 @ Bet365 or 7/1 @ Ladbrokes & Paddy Power

Cheers

John

Hi all,

Bear Force One & Itkaann finished first and second in the Class 2 handicap at Newmarket with the well backed favourite Troll Peninsula disappointing. Bear Force One was returned at an incredibly generous 16/1 so hopefully you were on with one of BOG firms.

Fresh from yesterday’s big priced winner I have a handful of fancies for you today. One at Catterick hails from a small yard who had a winner at Musselburgh on Tuesday and tend to have their winners come in streaks.

There’s an interesting 3-year-old only 1m 3f handicap at Kempton (8:30) this evening. There may only be seven runners but you can make some sort of case for all them.

Catterick

2:30 – Embour ran a cracker when a 4 ½ length 6^th of 20 in the Great St Wilfrid Handicap at Ripon last time.  Top-weight of 10-2 to carry but drops two notches in class and this his first start in Class 4 handicap. Well suited to a quick ground, he’s 4lb below his last winning mark, and has a handy low draw in stall 1.

Lady Nectar won nicely at Thirsk (good to firm) in April, off 2lb lower, and ran well when a 1 ¾ length 3rd of 7 in a better race at Redcar 38-days ago. The filly won over C&D last summer and her three career wins have come on good or quicker ground. The first time cheekpieces are an interesting addition for trainer Ann Duffield whose horses are going well.

1pt win – Embour – 7/2 @ Bet365

3:00 – Dirchill won off 8lb higher over C&D (soft) last October. But also won at Redcar last summer on good to firm. Not much signs of life in 2021. However, a 3-length 6^th of 11 over C&D 9-days ago was a step back in the right direction. The 7-year-old is very handicapped on the best of last season’s form and has each way claims.

1pt win – Dirchill – 30/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Kempton

8:30 – The Sir Michael Stoute trained Ziknay has been mildly progressive this season and looks set to go off favourite here. However, I think he might be worth taking on given he looked like he needed to go further than 1m 4f, when finishing runner-up Salisbury 13-days ago.

Irish Legend was a good 4^th of 13 at Goodwood last time. He’s 2-2 on the all-weather and has been gelded since his last run. The blinkers he wore at Goodwood are replaced by the reapplied cheekpieces and he appeals more than the Stoute horse.

Pied Piper was 3 ½ length behind Irish Legend at Goodwood and I don’t see why he should finish ahead of that one here.

King Of Tsavo won a nursery here last December and is 1-1 at Kempton. He hasn’t really built on the promise of his Haydock seasonal return but there was encouragement from his 7^th of 12 at Newcastle (1m 2f) last time and he shaped like he’s worth another try at further. The first-time blinkers are applied and they could eke out the improvement that he needs to win.

Choritzo has struggled since making a good seasonal return at Wolverhampton in April.  Big step up in trip here, just his second start beyond a mile but his dam did win over 1m 4f so its worth a try. The fitting of the first time cheekpieces need to have the desired effect.

Marching Army made all to win a quick ground Leicester novice two starts back. He looked a nice middle-distance prospect that day but struggled on good to soft on his handicap debut at Goodwood 26-days ago.  He’s surely better than run and remains capable of better. Osin Murphy who rode him at Leicester is back in the saddle.

1pt win – Marching Army – 6/1 @ Coral & Ladbrokes

Bellewstown

6:15 – Good World has won two of his last three, both at Wexford, and sandwiched in between those two successes he was a good second at Punchestown. He’s been raised 5lb for his last win but the 6-year-old showed a good attitude to prevail and is going the right way.

1pt win – Good World – 9/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

Cheers

Hi all,

The best of Tuesday’s racing looks to be this evening at Newbury and Salisbury.  Newbury’s feature race is a Class 2 Mile handicap (5:45) and Salisbury’s has an interesting 6f conditions race (6.05). I have selections in both races.

Newbury

The going at Newbury is good, good to soft in places but it’s set to be dry so the ground is likely to tighten up a shade. A decent sized field of 12 have declared for this Class 2 handicap although the drying ground could see several non -runners before post time.

5:45 – BetVictor Proud Sponsors Of Newbury Handicap (Class 2) – 1m

The market is likely to be headed by Troll Peninsula who we haven’t seen in action since impressing when winning at Kempton novice in March. He’s only one start on turf at Redcar (heavy) last autumn. Looks on a handy mark for his handicap debut but will he run if the ground quickens up?

Chance was progressive handicapper in 2020 and is having his first start since finishing down the field in Meydan in January. He went close on his seasonal reappearance last season so should be fit enough here.

King Ottokor has form on quick ground and has run well over C&D in the past. However, he’s another who’s best form has come when he gets his toe in. Easing down the weights though and is handicapped to win he gets his conditions.

Power Darkness posted a seasonal best when coming from behind to win at Newmarket last time. A strongly run race and quick ground are his optimum conditions and although he’s up 5lb in the weights but should remain competitive with the first time

Itkaann has improved with each of his three starts this season. The 4-year-old looked a bit unlucky in the run when a 1 ¾ length 3^rd of 7 at Nottingham two starts back and ran just as well when a close-up 4^th of 12 at Thirsk last time. Ground will be fine and the first time cheekpieces are an interesting addition.

Bear Force One has yet to hit form on his two starts this season but he’s dropped down to his last winning mark. The 5-year-old is suited by a sound surface and has won here in the past. Not discounted with Ryan Moore (2-5 when combining with trainer Roger Teal) up for the first time.

Verdict: It’s been a long time since we have seen the progressive Troll Peninsula and he could be well ahead of his mark on handicap debut. However, at the prices I prefer a couple against him.  Itkaann gets the first-time headgear and has been running like he can land a handicap off his present mark. Bear Force One is back down to his last winning mark and Ryan Moore is an eyecatching jockey booking.

1pt win – Itkaann – 9/1 @ Paddy Power & Betfair Sportsbook

1pt win – Bear Force One – 9/1 @ Bet365 or 8/1 @ Coral

Salisbury

6:05 – The sole older horse Roulston Scar is a now a non-runner. That just leaves just the five 3-year-olds to compete for this 6f sprint. There doesn’t seem to be much pace on so Mighty Gurkha could get a solo up front.

Albasheer is having his first run since finishing 6^th of 14 in last year’s Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes. A quick ground winner at Doncaster on his juvenile debut he also ran Chindit to a length in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at the same venue.  Belated seasonal return but remains capable of better if he’s trained on.

St Lawrence hasn’t been seen since disappointing in the Group 3 Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock in May but he’s better judged on his 1 ¼ length second to Rohaan in a Group 3 at Ascot in April.

Jumby bounced back to form when 3^rd to the well handicapped Great Ambassador in a Newmarket handicap 10-days ago.  Capable of going close here but can’t afford to be as slowly away as he was last time.

Arguably the most interesting runner is Prop Forward. The 3-year-old built on the promise of his C&D racecourse debut when easily winning a Bath maiden (good to firm) 20-days ago. He looks a nice prospect and although he’s thrown in the deep end here, he’s got scope for further improvement.

Verdict: You can’t discount any of the five runners. Former useful juvenile Mighty Gurkha hasn’t really hit form this season but could get the race run to suit. Prop Forward is the least experienced of these and the outsider but he’s open to more improvement.  

1pt win – Prop Forward – 10/1 @ Bet365 & Coral

Cheers

John