Review Archives - JPFestival.com

What did we learn from the Cheltenham November Meeting 2017?

November 23, 2017 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

A look back at the Cheltenham November meeting 2017 from Graham Richards. An exciting 3 days with lots of quality on display but what did we learn?

Cheltenham Friday November 17th
Magic Dancer and Oxwich Bay looked well-handicapped horses for the handicap hurdle over two-miles. So it proved in the race. The former has been raised 11lb to an OR 124, while Oxwich Bay has been raised 6lb to an OR 121. Both look capable of defying their new rating, especially the latter if raised in trip. Champagne City was far from disgraced given the ground would not have suited him. Zalvados showed improvement.

Finian’s Oscar was the first his age group to win this since Crozan in 2005. This race, in the past, has gone to some top-class performers. The winner could join them as the season progresses. Whilst his jumping was, understandably, novicey at times, he won cosily conceding 8lb to the runner-up. Movewiththetimes is yet to master the art of jumping. However, he is a talented individual that should appreciate a fast run race when there are plenty of runners. He remains on a mark of 145, right on the limit for the Novices Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Coo Star Sivola should do well in handicaps. Jumped well and ran on gamely having made the running.

On The Blind Side is good-looking sort with scope. Travelled well until the highest point of the track where he became outpaced. Responding well to pressure he moved into a challenging position down the hill. Switched as he approached and jumped the final flight he quickened nicely to win with something in hand. Both sides of his breeding suggests three-miles will suit. Momella ran a blinder upped in grade. She should do well if reverting to mares’ only races. Poetic Rhythm had clearly improved since Chepstow. His cavalier style of running is a joy to watch; however, it does leave him vulnerable at the business end of the race. Another good-looking sort, Vision Des Flos, may need to drop down in grade for a confidence boost. He has been asked a lot in his first two hurdle races. Calett Mad looked well in the paddock. Unfortunately, he ran a shade free which, in this higher grade, cost him when it mattered. A return to chasing may allow him to race with the choke-in.

Cheltenham Saturday November 18th
Apple’s Shakira impressed in the paddock and on the way down to the start. She jumped well, as she had done at Vichy, coming right away from Gumball on the run to the final flight. Her full-sister Apple’s Jade (Second in the 2016 Triumph Hurdle) handles most ground underhoof, raising hopes she can emulate her achievements in the coming months and years. Gumball’s jumping suggests he may prove happiest on a flat track on better ground. Eragon De Chanay ran a fair race and should be noted if sent towards juvenile handicaps.

Black Corton kept up his winning run and successful partnership with the impressive Bryony Frost. Leading on the home turn, she was still in control when the runner-up hit the final fence. That was not the only mistake Ballyoptic made, which is disappointing given his exemplary round at Exeter. West Approach ran like a drain and may prove best when fresh.

Perfect Candidate yet again showed his liking for Prestbury Park. He jumped and galloped his rivals into the ground and now has three wins and two seconds at his favourite track. Vicente ran a blinder on ground that is not his favoured surface. He will no doubt peak again next spring. Three Faces West ran well following a lengthy lay-off. He may have found the trip stretching his stamina. Shotgun Paddy needed the run while Premier Bond looked well but ran poorly. Minella Rocco looked well, but ran another disappointing race on ground connections felt was unsuitable (Why run him?). He is something on an enigma wrapped in a mystery.

Splash Of Ginge got the better of Starchitect in the BetVictor Gold Cup. The runner-up ran a blinder on ground that would not have suited. Ballyalton should find a similar race (lost a shoe during the race) while Tully East found the soft/holding ground less than helpful. Given a lot to do coming down the hill, Le Prezien ran on well before flattening out from earlier exertions.
Thomas Campbell has improved considerably this season and now resides on an OR 151. He needs to improve around 13lb to become a realistic Stayer Hurdle candidate. Handles most ground underhoof and received an excellent rider from his young claimer.

Cheltenham Sunday November 19th
Melrose Boy ran out a comfortable winner of the opening race. He looks sure to prove hard to beat if staying in a similar grade. Indeed, pieces of his form suggest he can defy a much higher handicap mark.

North Hill Harvey ran out an easy winner of the Arkle Trial Chase. He is at home around Prestbury Park and jumps for fun. Effective on good through to soft, he needs, historically, to find 10lb improvement to see him a threat in the race itself next March. River Wylde appeared to dislike the undulations and ground underhoof.

Fox Norton followed up his 2016 win in the Shloer Chase. He jumps well, taking over from the game front-running Sizing Tara and holding off Cloudy Dream (Probably best on good or good to soft) and Mr De Bromhead’s horse. Fox Norton will now run in the Tingle Creek where he look sure to go close. Unbeaten over fences going right-handed.

Elgin battled on well to follow up his Ascot win in the Greatwood Hurdle. He went round the wide outside, a manoeuvre, which played a large part in his success. Misterton, recorded a career best RPR on ground he would not have enjoyed. Progressive he should find a similar handicap in due course. Old Guard ran on to finish a never threatening third, while The New One ran an admirable race to finish fourth off a huge weight. One wonders why the claimer, who won on him previously, missed the ride.

Slate House ran out a cosy winner of the Supreme Trial Novices’ Hurdle (The flights in the home straight (Three in all) omitted). He remains a work in progress, while breeding suggests improvement over two and a half-miles.

View Cheltenham Festival 2018 race schedule and ticket information

FOUR TO NOTE

Coeur Blimey (IRE) 6yo (07Jun11 bb g) Sue Gardner
Fifth to Magic Dancer. Needs soft to heavy ground on a galloping track. May prove best on right-handed tracks.

Pineapple Rush 4yo (08Mar13 b f) Philip Hobbs
Third to Posh Trish in the Listed mares Bumper. Her breeding suggests she can improve when stamina is at a premium. Dam won over hurdles and fences.

William H Bonney 6yo (11Apr11 b g) Alan King
Ran well when fifth in the Greatwood Hurdle. Class Two races or just below should suit. Best on soft and looks a stronger individual this season.

Wylde Magic (IRE) 6yo (05Mar11 b g) Evan Williams
Well-backed in Melrose Bay’s race. Ran on at one pace and should improve over three-miles. Effective on most ground underhoof.

Saturday 25 January 2017 Review by Stopwatch Racing

February 27, 2017 by Will Hoffmann Leave a Comment

Kempton Hurdlers:

At Kempton, Master Blueyes & River Wylde both put up very decent, but probably slightly short of top class, performances. River Frost (who won the 21 furlong handicap hurdle off 133, 11-10) acts as a good guide to the form.

Neither race was strongly run. MB and RW clocked almost identical times between the 1st and 3 out, with River Frost only 0.4 seconds slower in the same period, despite the race being over 5 furlongs further.

Between 3 out and the line, River Frost clocked around 77 seconds with Master Blueyes around 76 seconds and River Wylde the standout at around 73.9 (largely due to a very fast 3 to 2 out sectional).

Assuming River Frost ran to a mark of around 138, I would suggest (taking into account the distance differential) River Wylde ran to between 142-144 with Master Blueyes running to about 130.

Charli Parcs would probably have won had he stood up in my view, but he would still have been a good way below his debut performance here at Christmas. Given there was no notable left when he came under pressure, I can’t really see why he struggled in the middle part of the race. Perhaps it was just inexperience, or maybe there’s a reason for his running flat. Either way, a repeat of today’s performance wouldn’t see him a Triumph let alone a Supreme. Disappointing from my perspective!

Frodon puts up a very smart performance:

Over fences, Frodon put up the best performance of the day. He led for much of the way, jumped well for pressure and proved himself likeable and straightforward as well possessing a good cruising speed.

Between the 1st and 3 out, he was 4.65 seconds faster than Pilgrims Bay in the same period in the Betbright Chase. From 3 out to the line, he was 1 second slower, but that would be expected given the weight differential and the strong early pace.

Assuming Pilgrims Bay ran to 135 (carrying 10-2), Frodon (11-5) would have to be adjudged in putting up a performance of around 155, which fits in with his previous handicap win at Cheltenham. He would undoubtedly run well at Cheltenham Festival 2017, but Kempton looks to suit him perfectly and, given how he often tends to finish weakly, you’d fancy a few of them to outgun him up the hill. Aintree looks the more suitable option and, going there as a fresh horse, he’d have a big chance. He might even be an interesting long shot for the King George VI at 25/1 given how easily he travels although, similar to TeaforTwo, he’s likely to find one or two classier, stronger stayers to beat him.

In the immediate short-term, Gold Present could be going into the festival a well-handicapped horse. He ran huge, despite quirkiness, and could easily have pushed Frodon close had he run straight. He’s entered in the Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase (Listed Race) and would have a big chance on a repeat of today’s run.

Irish Juveniles:

Dinaria Des Obeaux was awarded the race on a technicality, but was definitely the horse to have taken out the race. She’s a strong traveller who just lacks a tactical change of gear at a crucial stage, before finishing well. Today’s clock performance was very good again and reinforces my view that the Juveniles in Ireland will hold sway at Cheltenham. I would fancy her to run well in the Triumph, before going on to play a big part in next year’s World Hurdle. Ex Patriot is a decent horse too, although is likely just short of top class.

Poetic Force:

Clocked a a very impressive closing 3 furlong sectional at Wolverhampton (in the early-to-mid 35s) suggesting that he remains well-handicapped. He has a super turn of foot, and would appear to be at his best in small field mile races where they go steady. Shamrokh lacked the same turn of foot, but battled on bravely and will likely be the scopier horse for the future. He too remains well-handicapped.

To hear more and indeed see Will from Stopwatch Racing please watch the replay of our Live Cheltenham Festival Preview from 1 March or register to watch on Cheltenham Festival Eve on 13 March – Register for Cheltenham 2017 Preview

LOOK BACK

February 16, 2015 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

Leopardstown February 8th Yielding (Yielding to soft in places) PETITE PARISIENNE created something of a surprise when getting the better of Kalkir. However, there was no fluke about her success in a truly run race. She jumps for fun and looks sure to run well if sent for the Triumph Hurdle. Looking at RPR’s Kalkir ran just below his best. Sure to prove suited by a strong pace in the Triumph Hurdle, he will be thereabouts when it matters. NICHOLS CANYON jumped well to win the Grade One Deloitte Hurdle. A high-class horse on flat, he showed plenty of speed through the race. It was interesting to hear Mr Walsh suggesting he will stay as far as you like. Windsor Park deserves credit for an excellent effort. His jumping was less than fluent which, if rectified, would make him a serious candidate for his chosen race at Cheltenham. Alvisio Ville quickened clear on his hurdles debut at Leopardstown in December. He ran freely through the race, emptying out on the run-in. At present, he may prove best in a strongly run two-miles. Windsor Park’s stablechum Silver Concorde won the Festival Bumper last season. He disappointed in this race, leaving the impression he needs further than two and a half-miles. He enjoys good ground and thrives in the spring, suggesting we may see improvement when he returns to action. In the Flogas Novice Chase (Formerly the Dr P. J. Moriarty), Valseur Lido ran, based on RPR’s, 4lb below his best when second to APACHE STRONGHOLD. Prior to the race, paddock watchers felt he would improve for the run. APACHE STRONGHOLD won a compelling battle having looked beaten for much of the race. He will need to jump better at Cheltenham. Valseur Lido is bred to stay three-miles with his jumping and galloping ability setting a good standard. Adriana Des Mottes was far from disgraced in third. Kept to this grade, she should prove hard to beat against her own sex. In the Irish Hennessy, CARLINGFORD LOUGH ran on gamely to hold off fast improving Foxrock. The latter is best on soft ground while the former, whilst an admirable sort, he looks short of what is needed to win a normal Gold Cup. Despite looking just short of his best fitness-wise, last year’s Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere showed more dash in the Irish Hennessy, However, both RPR’s and TFR’s suggest those crossing the water need to improve if Silviniaco Conti runs to his best. I am of the opinion Boston Bob, in preparation for Cheltenham and the spring festivals received a considerate ride. Not put in the race until the latter stages, he looks one sure to enjoy the extra quarter of a mile at Prestbury Park. Newbury February 7th SOFT (Good to soft in places) QEWY won the opening novice event impressively. He jumps well, possessing both a turn of foot and a fair share of temperament. At present, it does not appear to affect his performance on the racecourse. One wonders if connections will bypass Cheltenham for Aintree, his speed would be a useful weapon at that track. Cardinal Walter looked and ran well deserving extra credit conceding 6lb. He too appears to enjoy flat tracks. Third home Royal Vacation should stay further, Bouvreuil looked well but may have needed this, while Poker School is one to note when sent handicapping. The fifth and sixth home won and finished second on their previous start suggesting the form is decent. CONEYGREE ran away with the Denman Chase leaving connections to face a decision over his race at the Festival. Whilst Timeform have him on 159p, the official handicapper rates him 166. He is 8lb behind Silviniaco Conti on OR’s and 9lb on RPR’s. With King’s Palace making harder work than was expected in a later race, it may prove prudent to head the way of the RSA (Last novice won in 1974). Good to soft or softer suits him best and he jumps for fun when making the pace. Houblon Des Obeaux finished second with RPR’s suggesting he ran 6lb below form. Unioniste was outpaced six fences from home before running on late. Given his age and official rating, it may prove prudent to postpone an assault the Grand National until 2016. Improving MR MOLE ran out a comfortable winner of the Game Spirit. His ability was never doubted by his trainer and he is now fulfilling that potential. Mr Mole (Best RPR 3lb behind Dodging Bullets) has a shout in the Champion Chase, though Festival atmosphere will test his temperament to the full. (Fell in the Grand Annual last year). Upsilon Bleu ran to form in second while Karinga Bay was unable to get competitive at any stage. Uxizandre’s fall at the last when beaten, looked on the cards following some hairy leaps on the way round. He looks likely to go for the Ryanair. Paddock-watchers felt Sire De Grugy would improve for the run Sire De Grugy. He made his jockey’s job onerous by running with the choke out. Making mistakes at the cross-fence and fourth last before he departed company with young Mr Moore at the next fence. Despite the mistakes, he left the impression he retains much, if not all of his ability. He will come on for the outing and not be written off. The Betfair Hurdle run, as is usually the case, at a decent pace produced something of a shock winner. Chieftain’s Choice took them along until falling at the fifth flight. VIOLET DANCER took over at the head of the field and from that point controlled matters. Leading all the way up the home straight, he was never seriously challenged. His promising young rider deserves plenty of credit. Cheltenian has had his problems, but ran a blinder in second, while Activial finished third, looking one that needs further these days. Horses that came from off the pace and still ran well include, Calipto, Jolly’s Cracked It (Good run from a novice that needs to brush up his jumping), On Tour (May need further), Arzal (Badly hampered in back straight before running on strongly), Balgarry and Wicklow Brave. Fascino Rustico was not completely done with when falling at the second last. KINGS PALACE ran out a comfortable winner of the novices chase. He made mistakes the open ditch in the straight on both circuits. However, overall it was a pleasing prep though his RPR was 5lb below his best. Vivaldi Collonges stuck to his guns looking an out and out stayer. His jumping was better than on his chasing debut, while he galloped all the way to the finish. Should they clash in the RSA, both Coneygree and Kings Palace like to make the pace, which would provide for a great spectacle. The Listed Bumper went to BARTERS HILL who completed a hat-trick of wins. A fast improving sort, he is built to be a chaser for the future. Buveur D’Air is closely related to Punchestowns. He won two AQPS Bumpers in the French provinces in late summer/autumn. A well-made sort, he looked fit and ready. Making headway all the way up the straight, he looked sure to go past BARTERS HILL in the final furlongs However, the winner showed guts and determination to concede 10lb to the runner-up. Altior bolted up at Market Rasen on his debut. He is bred for speed and stamina (Dam Hurdle/Bumper winner). The third home, Altior looked ready for action. Unfortunately, he was poorly placed when the race began in earnest. Fourth was Final Nudge. He should do well over hurdles when faced upped two and a half-miles. February 6th Kempton Park Chase – GOOD TO SOFT (Soft in places) Hurdles – SOFT (Good to soft in places) West Wizard let his supporters down again. Sent off an odds-on favourite for the third time the longer trip was expected to suit. However, having jumped well the distress signals went out between the last two hurdles. Try as he might, he could not close the gap on Jonjo’s exciting newcomer MINELLA ROCCO. An expensive purchase from the Brightwells Sales, following an impressive Irish-Point win, he won comfortably and looks a decent long-term prospect. West Wizard is a magnificent looking horse built to be a chaser. However, he is finishing off his races like a horse with a breathing problem. Ludlow winner Scorpiancer finished third giving the form a solid look. NEWSWORTHY ran out a hard fought winner of the first Bumper. He looked very fit and may need time to get over this. Second home, Midnight Cowboy proved green in the preliminaries. Nevertheless, he ran a highly promising race in second. Third placed Bilzic and Kayf Adventure ran well; they are two to note. OK CORRAL looked in good condition prior to the race. He matched his looks with a likeable win in the second Bumper on the card. He won with something to spare looking above average. Second home came the well-touted High Bridge. He tried had but was unable to match the winners speed. Likely to prove at his best on good ground he can find a similar event. Well-touted The Unit finished third. He will improve for time and experience. Expedite is a decent looking sort that is sure to come on a bundle for his fifth place. CHELTENHAM AND BEYOND – grahamrichardsonline.co.uk

Trials Weekend – Review

February 2, 2015 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

Sunday 25th January Leopardstown UN DE SCEAUX made all the running to win the Irish Arkle with plenty in hand. On this occasion, he appeared not to go off at such a breakneck pace. Following Clarcam’s brief challenge after the second last, he found reserves to go fifteen lengths clear. It is never easy to make all in championship race, especially at Cheltenham. In addition, his habit of overjumping on occasions would make the downhill fences less than enjoyable for Mr Walsh. RPR’s display Clarcam and Gilgamboa running to their previous figure, suggesting the winners form is both solid and well above average. His Timeform rating is 7lb below Sprinter Sacre and 4lb below Sire De Grugy. Little more can be written about the remarkable HURRICANE FLY. Despite hitting a flat spot when the pace quickened, he came back in the home straight to register his tenth win from ten outings at Leopardstown. In addition, it was his fifth Irish Champion Hurdle and twenty-first Grade One win. Approaching the last, he looked to have a battle on his hands with Jezki running on strongly. However, a mistake from Jezki sealed that one’s fate. General opinion on track suggested “The Fly” just had the call having jumped fluently through the race. Arctic Fire ran on strongly to take the runner-up spot, looking the type to appreciate an end-to-end gallop. In the process, he upped his RPR by 10lb. The slow early pace did not help Jezki’s cause. One wonders why Mr McCoy did not take the initiative earlier from the less than enthusiastic Plinth. Nevertheless, his RPR was higher than his figure in the same race last season, suggesting he is still very much in the Champion Hurdle mix. It is also worth noting his form has come on better ground while “The Fly’s” has come, in the main, on soft/heavy. OUTLANDER won the two and half-mile Grade Two novices hurdle. Always travelling well, he missed the second last. Recovering quickly, he showed a smart turn of foot to lead at the last and quicken clear on the run-in. RPR’s suggest he needs to improve around 5lb to prove competitive at the business end in his chosen race at the Festival. Nevertheless, his turn of foot will always stand him in good stead and makes the Neptune Hurdle a viable target. In behind, Martello Tower ran to his best. The Albert Bartlett looks an ideal target. Third home Killultagh Vic also ran to his best on the process enhancing L’Ami Serge’s UK form. Windsor Park ran a fair race in fourth. He looked short of pace and experience when it mattered, No More Heroes scoped badly post-race. Nevertheless, it may prove his best form will always come on soft/heavy ground. Saturday 24th January Cheltenham On soft ground, the opening race, a slowly run trial for the Triumph Hurdle, was won with a degree of ease by PEACE AND CO. Whilst he is a fluent jumper, he can stand a way off his hurdles. This can lead to mistakes; horses that do not learn to shorten up at an obstacle can end up on the floor. Always travelling easily, he did not find as much up the hill as appeared likely approaching the final flight. His temperament will be tested to the full (Wore earplugs on this occasion) on Gold Cup day. Karezak provides the form with a sold look recording an RPR on 138 for the third time in a row. Whilst he is short of pace at a vital stage he has the professionalism and guts to reach the first four in March. Zarib ran well enough for an inexperienced horse and looks likely to head for the Fred Winter handicap. Bivouac needs a stronger pace and a stiffer test, while Ibis Du Rheu needed the run and experience. A good-looking horse he has a future. MANY CLOUDS put himself on the Gold Cup short list with a likeable performance. He has a tendency to jump right when getting too close to a fence. However, overall his jumping was solid, an attribute that will always stand him in good stead at Prestbury Park. Despite his preference for easy ground, he looks sure to run his race in the Gold Cup though RPR’s see him 9lb behind Silviniaco Conti. In receipt of 8lb, Smad Place proved popular in the betting market. Despite giving his all, he was unable to pass the winner on the run-in. Dynaste ran another sound race and remains a consistent performer. His RPR was 5lb below his King George figure. The overall impression suggests a defence of his Ryanair title is the sensible route to take. The Giant Bolster ran well again having won the race last year. He is just below his best form but looks sure to be staying on when he returns for the Gold Cup in March. Whether the ground will play to his strengths is another matter. ORDO AB CHAO returned to his best when just outstaying Value At Risk, Vago Collonges, and Robinsfirth. RPR’s suggest the winner will need to improve 7/8lb to make an impression at the Festival. There is stamina on both sides of his pedigree suggesting the Neptune or Albert Bartlett are viable options. Value At Risk is a chaser for next season with his trainer suggesting he may moss the Festival on this occasion. Vago Collonges and Robinsfirth ran well. The former looks the type to run well at Aintree while the latter looks likely to improve with a summer under his saddle. Some Buckle is a chaser in the making; he looks nicely handicapped if dropped slightly in class. Present View was disappointing and may have needed it more than his trainer believed. He will return to fences in the Bet Bright Chase at Kempton Park. SAPHIR DU RHEU made the return to hurdles in a manner suggesting he will be a serious player in March. Whilst receiving 4lb from the runner-up, he battled on well when asked to win his race. He looks sure to improve having had, in the words of his trainer a, “stuttering campaign.” His age, combined with both a preparation geared to the World added and his trainers view he can improve him, point the way to further improvement at Cheltenham. Reve De Sivola is in the form of his life at present. He jumped as well as he ever has, suggesting soft ground at the Festival would see him in the mix. Un Temps Pour Tout was fit and ready. Heavily backed through the week, and on the day, he appeared not to see out the closing stages as well as the first two. In addition, he was receiving weight from the pair. Despite a high handicap mark, he would be interesting if steered towards the Coral Cup under a claiming rider. Last year’s winner Whisper had a similar weight/RPR profile going into the race. Cole Harden’s jumping is halting any progress he is capable of making. The Druid’s Nephew ran well up in grade and returned to hurdles for the first time since May 2012.

Clarence House Chase – Fall Out

January 23, 2015 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

The Clarence House Chase was rightly the centre of attraction last weekend. My first observation is that Grey Gold, Somersby, and Twinlight bettered, ran within 1lb, or ran too, their previous best RPR. That suggests the race was a true run affair with the form likely to hold-up.

DODGING BULLETS bettered his highest RPR by 6lb, agreeing with the official handicapper who now has him on a mark of 171. The winner jumped well and made progress running into the home bend, ultimately coming home to win comfortably. There has been no fluke about his recent wins or progress. Effective at Prestbury Park, and priced around 5/1, it is hard to argue that he is not a solid each-way selection. However, the stats below raise a worrying trend. DODGING BULLETS has run seventeen times over hurdles and fences. His record in races run in the months of February, March, and April reads; 2, 4, 6, 9, 7, 2, 4, 5. October, November, December, and January reads; 1, 1, 3, 1, 1, 3, 1, 1,1.

Moving onto Sprinter Sacre. I would normally report this was a pleasing return to action. Unfortunately, given the well-documented problems the horse has endured, we have to look at the performance in a different light. Experienced, pre-race paddock watchers, felt he looked fit prior to the race, if lacking the physical presence, he displayed in his pomp. His jumping was competent, without any of the flair or exuberance associated with his best performances. Sprinter Sacre travelled comfortably throughout the race until the second last, where he began to tire. Post-race he was not blowing hard, suggesting pre-race observations were correct. Finding traces of blood has to be a concern; it should not be forgotten the horse had a breathing operation in 2013. Normally it would be easy to forgive what was a relatively minor reading on the equipment used by the vet. However, we are not dealing with normal. Perhaps the most telling words came from Mr Geraghty in one interview. “He gave a good feel, his jumping will get slicker, he’ll be better for match practice, fitness, and everything, so I’d be hopeful we’d narrow the gap come March.” The words “narrow the gap” do not for me, inspire confidence. Denman was a similar scenario. He took several races and a summers rest to regain his best form, and most importantly his confidence.

FSF Ratings 179
SPRINTER SACRE 179
DODGING BULLETS 168
SPRINTER SACRE 2015 168

Horse racing review – Saturday 1 November

November 8, 2014 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

Saturday 1 November – Horse racing review

Wetherby
The Charlie Hall Chase run over, according to Timeform, two-miles, seven-furlongs and one-hundred and seventeen yards, developed into an exciting race. The first five home jumped well, apart from minor mistakes from MENORAH and Taquin De Seuil. MENORAH ran 5lb below his Timeform master rating and equalled his best RPR. This was the fourth time in the past two seasons he has recorded and excellent RPR on good or good to soft. To put some meat on the ratings bone, Silviniaco Conti ran 15lb below his 2013 King George win. Taquin Du Seuil, who appeared to get a second wind running into second, ran 1lb below his Festival win. Double Ross upped his game, recording his best RPR, 3lb above his career high. Medermit ran well after a break, just 2lb below his Punchestown RPR recorded in April. Overall, to my mind this comes up as Grade Two standard, with Taquin Du Seuil looking the one most likely to improve in the coming weeks and months.

Elsewhere at Wetherby, SOLAR IMPULSE, despite a desperate mistake at the sixth fence, ran on strongly, jumping the last two fences in good style. He beat a consistent yardstick (ran to his best RPR) and should develop into a useful handicapper. AURORE D’ESTRUVAL confirmed herself a smart mare when sauntering home in the Listed Mares Hurdle. The second and third ran very close to their best suggesting the form will stand the test of time.

Ascot
At Ascot, there were some notable performances highlighted by SIGN OF A VICTORY’S win in the two-mile Handicap Hurdle. Cantering throughout the race he won easily by half a length. The margin more than flattered the runner-up with an 11lb rise in the handicap unlikely to halt his progress. SIGN OF A VICTORY is best on good or good to soft and may reappear in the Ladbroke Hurdle, ground permitting. The runners from Seven Barrows generally looked in the need of the run/experience. Clondaw Banker, Cocktails At Dawn, and Chapel Hall all look sure to find the winners enclosure in the coming weeks and months. Jolly’s Cracked It and Wilberdragaon both look progressive horses, with the scope for further improvement. The former may defy a penalty before taking on stronger opposition, while the latter may go straight over hurdles having schooled well at home. On Sunday November 2nd at Carlisle, MANY CLOUDS showed his well-being taking the Colin Parker Chase. He battled on well having jumped well throughout the race. He now heads for the Hennessy Gold Cup, with his trainer reporting he will come on again for the race. If getting genuine soft ground, he holds a decent shout. The runner-up Eduard lost nothing in defeat conceding 6lb. He will improve further if getting his jumping together. Holywell reportedly looked badly in need of the run and is unlikely to show his best until the New Year. OTAGO TRAIL made an impressive hurdles debut in the opening novice hurdle. He travelled like a dream looking a natural as he jumped fluently throughout the race. One to keep an eye on. Over at Huntingdon, UN ACE got his chasing career back on track with a good win over a useful yardstick, while ORDO AB CHAO continued his education winning comfortably. The trainer has a high opinion of this exciting novice hurdler.

Down Royal
Over in Ireland, ROAD TO RICHES and DON COSSACK ran out comfortable winners of their respective races at Down Royal. It is worth noting between them, they have won eight chases; seven of those have come going right-handed. Both Rocky Creek and Boston Bob were in need of the run behind ROAD TO RICHES.

LOOK BACK – WEEKEND ACTION 25/26 OCTOBER

October 31, 2014 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

25 October – AINTREE

Handicap Hurdle 2m1f Good Despite being a strong stayer on the flat EAGLE PEAK appears best over two-miles or a shave further on good or good to soft ground. He should find a race or two round a flat track. Garde Le Victoire clouted the last two hurdles, which ultimately cost him the race. He may jump fences better as he will need to treat them with more respect. Good or good to soft up to two and a half-miles, suits this useful horse. Handicap Hurdle 2m4f Good SPIRIT OF SHANKLY, who had a wind operation over the summer, ran on strongly to land a third win on seasonal reappearance. He is expected to stay three-miles but yet to win in a higher grade than Class Three. Best on good or good to soft around flat tracks. Saphir River ran a fair race in fourth. He is hard to catch right but is best on soft/ heavy ground in the winter months. Kingsmere ran well enough to suggest, he could win a similar grade three-mile hurdle on good or good to soft ground. Handicap Chase 2m4f Good WISHFULL THINKING bounced back to form on ground thought, by the trainers’ wife post-race comments, to be his best surface. In doing so, he recorded a career high RPR. Possibly, at his best when fresh, he will be a danger to all bar Grade One chasers on a going day. It his worth noting his two most recent wins came on heavy and soft ground! Edgardo Sol likes it at this track. He was given a hold-up ride. Kept close to the inside, he collided with the wings of several fences. He is not easy to place, but appears best on relatively flat left-handed tracks on good though too soft. Rolling Aces ran well in third having cut out a lot of the pace. He appears best on left or right-handed flat tracks on good through too soft. Uxizandre was not given an overly hard time in fourth. He lost a prominent position down the back straight before making ground before seeming to blow-up between the last two fences. Happiest when making the pace, one has to conclude connections felt he was too short of fitness to adopt his usual style of racing. Entered in the Paddy Power, his best RPR is 1lb less than Al Ferof’s, going into his 2012 victory. His handicap mark is 1lb lower, suggesting, if sent in that direction, he has a solid chance. Wherever he runs, a refitting of cheek-pieces would be deemed significant. Radjhani Express was just behind the leaders when Mr Waley-Cohen lost his irons in a very soft unseated rider. Module’s overall form suggests he is at his very best on soft ground over two or two and a quarter miles. Novices’ Chase 2m4f Good GOLDEN HOOF ran out a comfortable winner of his first chase. However, Horizontal Speed caught the eye. Having been hampered at the third fence, he ran too freely before Mr Johnson let him stride on turning out of the back straight for the first time. Consistently jumping to the right down the far side on the final circuit and keeping on well, he had nothing in reserve when the winner went passed. Horizontal Speed handles good through to soft and stays two and a half-miles. He may prove best going right-handed and making the running. 25 October – CHEPSTOW At Chepstow, SAUSILITO SUNRISE made an excellent start to his chasing career. Three-miles, good to soft or softer will see him in his best light. Connections believe he can be competitive in the top novice chases. Minella On Line is worth noting and looks the type to stay forever. Mosspark may prove best around two and a half-miles. In the Persian War Hurdle Blaklion put up a typical Twiston-Davies performance, grinding out a win, while his rivals wilted in his wake. His RPR, at this stage of his development, suggests normal improving will see him competitive in Grade One company. Second placed Vicente enhanced the form of the Cheltenham race that Paddy Power bound Present View, should have won. The Pirates Queen ran well in third, suggesting mares’ only races would prove a bountiful division to pursue.

Cheltenham Showcase 18th October – LOOK BACK

October 25, 2014 by Graham Richards Leave a Comment

3m1½f Old Good To Soft Novice Hurdle
Vivaldi Collonges attempted to make all in the opening event. He was far from fluent on several occasions but stuck to his task to the bitter end. A combination of match fitness and jumping may have cost him the win; however, he will surely find the winners enclosure in the coming weeks. IN THE ROUGH improved around 4lb on his last effort in late August. He travelled easily and jumped well throughout the contest. Going easily on the home turn. He needed Mr Geraghty to drive him on the run-in. He looks as though he can improve further and step up in grade. The wide margin back to the third (Recent dual winner) suggests the form is solid.

2m4f Old Good To Soft Handicap Chase
JOHNS SPIRIT recorded an 18lb higher rating than last year, in the same event. Always going well towards the back of the field, he made smooth progress to close on the leaders approaching the second last. Jumping the last in good style, he went away under hands and heels riding. Raised 9lb by the handicapper he would need to produce his very best to repeat his win in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. However, such is his affection with Prestbury Park, one cannot rule that out. Persian Snow ran well in second. He would appreciate softer ground. Ericht finished an honourable third; he is perhaps, at his best on a flat track. Bennys Mist ran well for a long way. On softer ground with the hood back on, he can find an opening.

2m½f Old Good To Soft Hurdle
Hard to know what to make of the form of this race. Calipto jumped well and looked all over the winner turning for home. However, he failed to find as much as looked on the run-in. His trainer later reported he has a breathing problem. TIGER ROLL did well to get up close home conceding 8lb. If Calipto was below his best, it slightly devalues the run, though his trainer felt the ground did not play to his strengths. On the plus side, the third home was well beaten off, while it is worth noting TIGER ROLL improved his best RPR by 6lb.

3m1f Old Good To Soft Handicap Chase
ROALCO DE FARGES put his end of season disappointments behind him when taking this staying chase in good style. Held up at the rear of the field, he jumped and travelled in good style. Produced to challenge at the second last he led over the final fence and quickened away from his field. Raised 8lb, his RPR for this race (148) suggests he can go close to following-up. Standing Ovation travelled and jumped well, kept to the inside of the track. He was unable to match the winners speed on the run-in but looks as good as ever. Alfie Spinner plugged-on for third, while both Chicago Grey and Golden Chieftain served notice, they can be competitive again this season.

2m5f Old Good To Soft Handicap Hurdle
ULZANA’S RAID gamely landed this competitive handicap under top-weight. He jumped well, running on strongly from two hurdles out holding the persistent challenge of the runner-up. Raised 7lb, this progressive horse should find other opportunities (Coral Cup?), though he is very much a chaser in the making. Forthefunofit ran well for an inexperienced horse. He should stay further and looks sure to progress. Handicap chaser Ardkilly Witness, looks one to keep an eye on after a promising reappearance. He stays well and handles soft/heavy ground with races like the Welsh National possible targets. Act Alone led over the last. Unfortunately, he misjudged the hurdle landing steeply. Mr Geraghty quickly eased off and on hopes the horse retuned sound.

2m½f Old National Hunt Flat Race
An excellent finale saw MOON RACER establish himself as a potentially top-class National Hunt horse. Always travelling close to the pace, he quickened clear two furlongs out before being eased down in the final one-hundred yards. His RPR was just 9lb behind the figure Silver Concorde recorded at the Cheltenham Festival. Plenty of horses behind him arrived having won Bumpers. However, the one to remember may be Robbie Rabbit who is a winning English-Pointer.

Get organised by buying your tickets for Cheltenham’s next meeting, The Open featuring the Paddy Power Gold Cup now!

BUY CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE TICKETS

Book Review – Paul Ferguson’s “Jumpers To Follow”

October 4, 2014 by Dan Kelly Leave a Comment

At the first sign of morning frost, National Hunt fans know that the better quality jumping action is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to prepare for the long season ahead than picking up a copy of Paul Ferguson’s Jumpers To Follow (buy your copy – JP). He still hasn’t learnt his lesson from last year, Wilde Blue Yonder a shocking omission once again, but the time I’ve spent over the last week or so putting his forty horses to follow in a tracker, will certainly be time well spent during the coming months. Paul isn’t swayed by hype, some talking horses may get a mention here or there, but those that do make his 40 Leading Prospects, each one backed up with a thorough review of their form, pedigree, even purchasing traits. Paul Nicholls’ Emerging Talent being a good example:

“…won a Naas bumper in March for TJ Nagle Jnr, after which Paul Barber purchased him in a private sale. Along with fellow leading owner Graham Roach, Barber bought Just A Par from Nagle…”

His 40 Leading Prospects have certainly paid off in recent seasons; Faugheen was the shining light, but he unearthed some corkers in the form of Clondow Kaempfer, Court Minstrel and Very Wood showing that he certainly delves a little deeper when trying to unearth a prospect. But away from Paul’s Leading Prospects; Nick Schofield, Jane Mangan, Brendan Powell and Irish point-to-point champion, Jamie Codd offer their thoughts on horses to follow, which is already paying dividends with one of Jane’s five to follow scoring already, Sizing Italy. Experts Forum Q&A Session, a feature that this year involves Gina Bryce, Nick Robson and Rory Delargy is worth the £9.95 alone. Rory’s answers in particular, not only because it offers him the opportunity to declare his love for Knockara Beau, but one response sees him open with “This is something of a bee in my bonnet…” With Jumpers To Follow going from strength to strength year on year, trainers are open with Paul when it comes to discussing their charges. He calls it a whistle stop tour around the yards of the country, but if you want to keep track of the many number of bumper horses that no doubt made his long list in May, then they’ll be within these 34 pages. Before the season gets into full swing, this book is well worth the price of a placepot. You’ll no doubt whittle his 40 down to 10 when Tote Ten To Follow competition time comes around, and curse when one of the other 30 does you on the line in the Neptune Novices Hurdle. Even throughout the season it’ll be a valuable reference point when it comes to picking out those handicap plots, and with over 300 horses mentioned in the book, they’ll be plenty. On a completely unrelated note, you’re still missing a Green and Gold section Paul. Anyway, while waiting for Paul’s book to arrive, my five to follow from the 300+ horses that get a mention in Paul’s book are: Carraig Mor, Gilgamboa, Jollyallan, One Track Mind and The Tullow Tank. Who makes your five? Let’s have a discussion in the Comments below…. Jumpers To Follow is available from www.cc-publishing.co.uk and www.weatherbysshop.co.uk/books/betting/paul-fergusons-jumpers-follow-2014-2015 for £9.95 including p&p to UK and £11.95 to Ireland. Paul Ferguson and reviewer Dan Kelly will be on the panel for the JPFestival.com Cheltenham Showcase and Season Preview Broadcast – BOOK NOW – on 16 October – £3 or FREE for Community Members – find out more about Membership.

Cheltenham pointers for Royal Ascot

June 4, 2014 by Jonathan Pollinger Leave a Comment

There’s a strong connection between Cheltenham and Ascot racecourses. Cheltenham stages the pinnacle of Jump Racing and Ascot stages the summer highlight of the Flat with Royal Ascot and since last year, the end of season Flat finale with Champions Day. Trainers who would be better known in the jumping sphere rather than on the level have had an impact. For example, in the last ten years the Ascot Stakes ( Handicap – 2m 1/2f) has been won by trainers who fans of the jumping game would be very familiar with; O’Neill, Pipe, Henderson, Martin and Webber. Jonjo O’Neill’s Well Sharp in the well known colours of JP McManus, took the race last year to complete a sequence of 4 in a row for trainers who regularly run horses at Cheltenham as well as Ascot. The entries for this year’s renewal are likely to contain many dual purpose horses so there’s every chance the sequence can continue. Junior who was triumphant in 2010 went on to complete a rare Royal Ascot – Cheltenham Festival double when he ran away with the 2011 Kim Muir. If you travel a bit further back in time, Brown Jack did the same, only the other way around. Having won the Champion Hurdle in 1928, three months on he was victorious in the Ascot Stakes. He also has the distinction of winning the Queen Alexandra (Group 3 – 2m5f) for six years running from 1929–1934. That race has been taken in recent years by dual purpose performers such as Baddam and Caracciola. The 2012 winner Simenon falls in that bracket too and he is set to line up in this year’s Ascot Gold Cup, having finished a neck second to the Queen’s Estimate last year. Given his liking for Ascot in June and what we saw at Chester, his Royal Ascot Odds of 16/1 for the Gold Cup look generous. Simenon joined the Willie Mullins yard from Andrew Balding in 2011 when I would imagine hurdling was the sole intent and he has displayed plenty of ability in that sphere. Simenon loves a level, fast galloping track and it comes as no surprise that he has shown his very best around courses such as: Ascot, Ayr and Cork. He certainly didn’t appreciate the Cheltenham undulations when finishing last in the 2012 Supreme Novice Hurdle. Another contender at a double figure price is Pale Mimosa, trained by Irish dual purpose trainer Dermot Weld and owned by Ronan Lambe. When their Rite Of Passage went off favourite for the 2009 Champion Bumper, who would have thought we were watching next year’s Ascot Gold Cup winner? Not many horses contest the Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle directly before the Ascot Gold Cup but that’s what Rite Of Passage did in 2010. So, the chestnut with the big fluffy noseband went from Cheltenham to Ascot via Rosewell House to contest the Gold Cup. Sent off at an unconsidered 20/1 in the betting, he beat Age Of Aquarius by a neck and set a new track record in the process. Pale Mimosa came 3rd to the Ascot Gold Cup favourite Leading Light in the Vintage Crop Stakes in his seasonal reappearance and is likely to renew rivalry without another run. Should he take the honours on Thursday 19 June it would be an amazing Gold Cup double for his owner who won this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup with Lord Windermere. Well known jumps trainer Alan King is likely to saddle Tiger Cliff in the Gold Cup, but he was a disappointing 5th to Brown Panther in the Henry II stakes at Sandown. So if you’re having a bet in the Ascot Stakes on Royal Ascot Tuesday or in the Gold Cup on Ladies Day, make a note of those Cheltenham connections.

2

3

…

9

Next Page »