October Archive Free Racing Tips from SPy

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 31st

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

12.20: Revered stayed on over this trip on debut at Salisbury and is said to have improved since. After a decent enough first effort she is certainly the filly to beat in this maiden. She ought to win but, as always, with so many unknown quantities in opposition, the betting will be informative. Countenance Divine is said to be useful but is nominated as no more than an each-way hope by her stable.

12.55: This is the division won by Sariska last year so today’s participants have plenty to live up to. The word is for Safina to provide a quick double for Sir Michael Stoute. Impeccably bred, Safina is said to be an exciting prospect. She is sure to be in the mix and hopefully her class will prevail; however, as we all know, newcomers from this yard are not subjected to hard races.  Godolphin field two with obvious chances in the following events in Anhar and Secrecy. They can and possibly will win, but the boys in blue are not finished for the year just yet and we can afford to let them run.

2.35: I may take a chance with the highly progressive Prince Of Dance here – the one horse in the line up without a question mark hanging over him. With City Style and Shaweel returning to action after lengthy absences, Plum Pudding and Bushman both charting slightly deeper waters than they are accustomed to, Prince Of Dance, although having to raise his game, is fit, on a roll and to my mind the one to beat. The run of Secrecy in the 2.05 may give a better clue to his chance.

WETHERBY RACING TIPS:

1.45: Nikos Extra is the message here. He jumps fences well and is apparently fit enough to make his presence more than felt.

2.55: Deep Purple is surely the class act in the Charlie Hall. His style of racing may be his undoing. If he takes on Ollie Magern early he is likely to be a spent force some way out on this his first venture over the trip. Possibly a horse to consider backing in running.


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FRIDAY OCTOBER 30th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

12.40: There may be some each-way value to be found here and it could come in the shape of Imperial Delight who is reported in good fettle. His form with Za Za Zoom looks reasonable and would be good enough to take this son of Royal Applause close. That said Asraab is reported to be smart and is expected to win.

1.15: Quick Wit seemed to run well enough behind the classy Tamaathul last time and, although possibly flattered against a colt that won with plenty in hand, was running on strongly. He is expected to add to the current purple patch being enjoyed by his stable thus providing a quick fire Godolphin double.

1.50: Backing fillies just now is not the best course of action so this is a race to swerve.

2.25: Qelaan’s second to Rosika did not look too bad in the light of Rosika’s run in the Listed event at Lingfield yesterday. However, as a filly, I am reluctant to nominate Qelaan until seeing her in the paddock.

3.35: This is a race that historically gives an edge to two-year-olds. However, this year’s field does not contain one of obvious quality. Pastoral Pursuit is an unknown quantity and Hadeeth was second last time in a nursery from a mark of 79. Bits of form give Himalya the best chance, but he is not totally convincing.


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     THURSDAY OCTOBER 29th:

 LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.40: This maiden has attracted a fair field – possibly a sign of things to come this winter. Lay Claim lines up with the best form judged on an excellent second to the smart Critical Moment at Newbury on debut. His follow up run, when a disappointing favourite at York, can be dismissed as he found himself racing on the worst ground. In view of Critical Moment’s excellent effort in the Horris Hill on Saturday, Lay Claim is worth another chance and looks primed to account for his rivals. He is seen as the bet of the day.

 2.10: Rosika has a chance in a tricky fillies event after beating the progressive Qelaan last time. However, this is a tough looking race and backing fillies at this time of year can be a dodgy proposition.

 2.40: The same remark can be levied against Apple Charlotte who was probably out of her depth last time and returns to her right class today.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

6.30: There is a message for narrow Salisbury loser Cojo here.


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WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28th:

 HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

4.30: It seems fair to say that Brusilini has yet yo realise stable hopes; however, he does need genuinely good to firm ground, which he will get today unless Haydock becomes the victim of unforeseen weather conditions. In a winnable race he is therefore presented with his chance and ought to win.

 KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

6.20: Anaya is seen as a form alternative to Donna Elvira. Her second last time to well-fancied Deirdre was on the back of respectful runs, and with the draw on her side she has her opportunity.

 7.20: Marine Spirit’s habit of exiting the stalls slowly could be a worry from his low draw tonight. Blinkers are applied to sharpen him up, but those contemplating backing him may be better to press the button in running.


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TUESDAY OCTOBER 27th:

 YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

3.10: On messages the best two newcomers here are Lion Mountain and Bullet Train. Lion Mountain is reputed to be decent but the word for Bullet Train is strong. By Sadler’s Well out of Kind – a filly Henry Cecil trained – Bullet Train will handle conditions, stay and should have a turn of foot. At this stage he looks the one to beat.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

1.50: Kalahari Desert may prove too hot for modest opposition here. Having had a spin round this track over five and being by Captain Rio – a sire responsible for plenty of winners on Fibresand – Kalahari Desert’s run last time was boosted at Kempton yesterday by the run of Silk Street. This trip of six looks sure to suit; he is worth taking a chance with.

CATTERICK RACING TIPS:

1.30:Dubai Diva could be the interesting contender in this despite a lengthy absence. It seems unlikely she would be making this trek unless fit enough to do herself justice and is another worth a speculative wager.


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MONDAY October 26th:

The Godolphin bandwagon should continue to roll today with an anticipated success from Mutfajer at KEMPTON in the 3.10. Unsuited by tacky ground when fifth at Newbury, this son of Oasis Dream is considered useful and, with Frankie up and the draw on his side, will be hard to beat.


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SUNDAY Octover 25th:

There are no tips or messages for today.


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SATURDAY October 24th:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.15: With the Newmarket form represented by Swiss Cross having been somewhat devalued by Tartan Trip at Kempton midweek, it may pay to concentrate on Sand Skier and Subtefuge in this tricky opener. Narrow preference is for Sand Skier over the filly, although being by Observatory, Subtefuge should appreciate some give in the ground.

3.30: Whatever hype may surround St Nicholas Abbey, he seems mighty short at the price considering he faces such tough opponents. Elusive Pimpernel has solid form, Al Zir is highly thought of but has not fully convinced, whilst Shakespearean looks overpriced for a progressive type that battled on well in a the Goffs Million last time. I expect the winner the come from one of the four nominated.

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.05: Cadley Road was beaten less than a length by Racing Post contender Shakespearean in Ireland. That is arguably the best form on offer but has been blurred by the promise shown by several maiden winners that have something to prove. He could represent value.

2.35: Tastahil has his conditions and is reported in fine fettle. Although he has little in hand of All The Aces, he lines up a fresh horse. Harbinger is the fly in the ointment but is difficult to fancy at present.

3.45: Snow Fairy looks a worthy favourite for this Listed contest and should be suited by the ground. Although impressive in victory last time, Jacqueline Quest faces much tougher opposition. Snow Fairy’s form verges on Group 1 standard, although she is probably a true Group 3 filly.

4.20: Blissful Moment ought to be good enough to win this judging by a promising initial effort behind Fareej in a race that is working out.


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FRIDAY OCTOBER 23rd:

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

 1.15: The Barry Hills stable have chosen today to attempt an optimistic  – from a betting point of view –  four-pronged attack on what has to be described as a hard card. Tamaathul is the first to take his chance. After a promising appearance at Newbury, he looks the one to beat; however, typical of this time of year, several well bred newcomers represent a couple of big yards and may present threats.

 1.50: Rashad is reported to be very smart and a big first run is anticipated. Robinson Cruso represents the form threat. Once again, a couple of likely first-timers may also figure.

2.55: Sharaayen is reported to be considerably better than his last run indicates. He will need to be as this is a tough nursery. Although Saboteur holds no secrets his form with the smart Golden Shaheen, and his experience in the sales race at Newmarket, will stand him in good stead and he holds a solid chance.

3.30: In another tough contest the most interesting contender has to be Confuchias who encounters his favoured soft ground for the first time this season. Although he is bidding to win is first handicap, several excellent efforts in hot company make him a serious player from a winnable mark. A fast run race will suit Lowther over a minimum trip for him, whilst Hamoody has the ability and was noted making good headway last time from an impossible position.

5.10: Captain Dancer completes the proposed four-timer for the Hills trainer. Such a prediction is a big ask in the sort of tough races they contest and I do not intend to follow it over a cliff.  I suggest it is a day for small investment only.


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THURSDAY OCTOBER 22nd:

 Two messages have been received for KEMPTON  RACING tonight.

The first runs in the 7.20: Al Qeddaaf carries stable confidence after a recent run is said to have blown away the cobwebs. His form is hard to asses, but he returns to a winning mark although this does not look a particularly easy race. Given the breaks he should be there or thereabouts, but does not have the appearance of a good thing.

 7.50: Muso had a reputation that preceded him at Wolverhampton on debut but ran below expectations, merely plugging on for fourth beaten some six lengths. Clearly he is regarded as being better than that and once again is expected to win. The fact he is stepped up in trip is something of a double-edged sword. The extra two furlongs may help but, on the other hand, he must have been showing a turn of foot at home to be considered so highly last time, so it could be he is a horse with a high cruising speed that fails to quicken. Tonight will tell us much more about him; just be careful you do not pay too much to find out!


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WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 21st:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Golden Shaheen is taken to win this maiden at the expense of what is arguably the form horse, Tartan Trip. The selection was a good second here after a run on unsuitably soft ground at Ayr, and was then far from disgraced in a valuable sales race at Newmarket. The return to this surface will suit, whereas Tartan Trip – who appeared to run well at Newbury in a slowly run race – may have been flattered by that. His presence here, from a stable that often fly high rather than low, hints that the Newbury run should not be taken literally. Golden Shaheen looks the one to be on.

BATH RACING TIPS:

2.30: To a lesser extent Spa’s Dancer gets his chance in an average maiden. His profile is one of a horse working his way down the ranks rather than up. Thrown in at the deep end on his debut, he now appears to be in his right grade.


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TUESDAY OCTOBER 20th:

YARMOUTH HORSE RACING TIPS:

Four fillies take the eye on the card today – which, at this time of year, could be asking for trouble:

2.20: Miss Antonia is expected to go well but is vulnerable to anything out of the ordinary. Her latest run is better with hindsight than it looked at the time and the trip will suit. She has an each-way chance at best.

2.50: Meeznah ran a race full of promise when third to the useful Tabassum on debut after a slow start. A prolonged absence is off-putting to a degree but, if all is well, she could be too good.

3.20: Rule Of Nature chased home Subtefuge at Warwick in promising style, but makes limited appeal at likely odds.

3.50: Magnificence represents the most interesting prospect on the day. Clearly she is not as good as her stable once thought, but she is not without ability and not many Michael Stoute inmates run from a mark of 60. The key to this stoutly bred filly could be the step up in trip. She does have a habit of taking a keen hold on the way to post so at a time of year when fillies can go over the top between paddock and stalls, it may pay to monitor her demeanour on the way down. All being well she has the ability to figure prominently.


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MONDAY October 19th:

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIP:

3.40: Hot Prospect contests this in preference to the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy on Saturday and that, combined with the form subsequently shown by Morana – who finished second to the selection at Sandown – is seen as a strong hint for the selection’s chances. Described as the best juvenile in the stable, Hot Prospect is a well grown individual with plenty of depth. With his penalty, it is hard to see Frozen Power conceding weight to Hot Prospect and Black Snowflake is seen as a bigger threat.


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SUNDAY OCTOBER 18th:

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIP:

SOUTHWELL stage a fair card today, featuring a tricky but quality-filled handicap. Best option on the day could be Demonstrative in the 2.10. Mark Johnston’s horses always act here if sent to race on Fibresand, so with the best form on offer, Demonstrative should have no trouble in winning.


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SATURDAY OCTOBER 17th:

 NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

One of the big days of the season with quality all the way at Headquarters.

1.50: This is a tough start to the day for which my suggestion is Donatavium. Ashram is quirky and several opponents look to be in the twilight of their racing careers. Donatavium’s form with Confront makes him one to include in perms.

2.25: After an easy win at Naas, Steinbeck may prove to be more man than mouse – think about that one – but this year’s Dewhurst looks up for grabs.

3.00: Bookmakers seem to have overacted to the claims of Fame And Glory. On ground and over a trip far from ideal, victory here is not impossible but he is no 13/8 chance – more like a 3/1 shot! Sariska likewise, so the first two in the betting look opposable. Physically, Doctor Fremantle looks to have improved enormously and he and Twice Over could represent value in a race that is more open than the betting suggests.

3.40: Impossible though these races are, I may take a small chance with Yes Mr President whose form is solid. Those espousing the chance of Darley Sun should bear in mind that taking weight-for-age into account, he is carrying the equivalent of 9st 6lbs.

4.15: Tabassum looks very useful and will take the beating, but there is confidence behind Champagnelifestyle who is said to be the best filly in the Barry Hills yard.

4.50: On the Dar Re Mi form at York in the spring, last year’s winner Crystal Capella looks a good thing to follow up on last year’s win in this event. A great day’s racing but a tough one probably best approached with caution. The suggestion is to go the multiple betting route for small stakes.

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

I can pass on a word for Starluck in the 2.05. Not the strongest of finishers last year, he has his best chance of lasting in this company on ground sure to suit.


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FRIDAY OCTOBER 16th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.30: The local word is for Inler, a Red Ransom debutant that has been making all the right moves at home. He is expected to open his account at the first time of asking.

2.00: This looks a close call between William Van Gogh and Theology, both of whom showed plenty of promise behind subsequent winner Fareej over this course and distance on their initial runs.

3.10: Glass Harmonium is of interest here as he looked as if he would improve on his last effort at Newbury three weeks ago in an unsuitably slow run affair. His Ascot form puts him in this with a definite chance, as does his effort in the Dante back in the spring. Not too many can be accorded a serious chance here and Glass Harmonium is taken to get the better of Rio De La Plata.

3.45: Such was the authority of Gripsholm Castle’s win over Presbyterian Nun last time, I would be reluctant to oppose her as she looks like a filly improving at the rate of knots.

4.20: After a bold attempt last time, Enact may provide another winner for the Stoute stable here.

CHELTENHAM stage an interesting jumping card for the winter enthusiasts. Despite the natural inclination to state Snap Tie is short enough to win on his first attempt over fences, he has impressed at home. He may not be betting material but should not be opposed in the 2.55.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.45: Pat Seamur is expected to recover recent losses in what looks a weak nursery.


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THURSDAY OCTOBER 15th:

Just the one recommendation today:

NOTTINGHAM HORSE RACING TIP:

3.10: Black Eagle will appreciate the extra yardage and, having benefited from a promising debut, is expected to take this en route to better objectives.


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WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 14th:

Potentially it looks a quiet day.

 LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.00: In a race comprising of four winners from their only outings to date, this is probably best left alone. Fareej appears to have the best form but the message is for Business As Usual.

  KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.50: Dahaam, a warm order last time that hung at a crucial stage, is once again expected to win. At the likely price and in view of a tame finishing effort last time, although he should oblige, I am inclined to let him run.


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TUESDAY OCTOBER 13th:

LEICESTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Mufarrh looks the obvious pick here as he has almost five lengths in hand of Official Style on Newbury running. However, Official Style is said to have improved since and it would come as now surprise should the gap between them be closed, if not overturned.

2.40: I can pass on news for Markhesa in the seller.

4.40: Botanist is expected to make amends for a narrow Sandown defeat last time. He seemed to go from cruising to struggling in the dying strides. The ground may have been responsible; there is just the chance he failed to stay. At a short price, any such doubt has to strike a warning note.

NEWCASTLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.50: This could develop into a hot contest by the standards set on this course. There are messages for Woodford Belle and Deirdre, whilst Anaya has form that entitles her to be in the mix. The presence of an unraced Godolphin contender further complicates the issue.


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MONDAY OCTOBER 12th:

 

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Flouncing, who was slow to stride when third to the potentially useful Muwakaba at Kempton, should appreciate this extra furlong and looks the one to beat.

3.45: Surely there is a race in Thousand Miles before the close of the season. He will be suited by easy ground but there is a fair message for Captain Dancer who must come into the reckoning in a tough-looking handicap.

4.20: For a horse with limited experience, Secrecy ran with plenty of promise last time at Doncaster. As a result he has to be taken seriously here; however, he has his share of weight for a three-year-old. Godolphin do tend to place their handicappers well but he will need to be pretty decent to win this – something that is entirely possible on the limited evidence to hand.

5.20: Last time we saw her Brief Look shaped like a filly that will appreciate this step up in trip. Once again she is the one to beat.

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.05: I can pass on a word for Imperial Delight in this.


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SUNDAY OCTOBER 11th:

 

There are two messages worthy of consideration today:

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.35: Ransom Note seems to have been afforded a chance from a decent mark in this nursery. This is no straightforward task but he is better than his last run indicates and carries stable confidence.

FFOS LAS HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: There may not be much of Aohona but this flat track is expected to bring out the best in her and she is expected to take advantage of modest opposition.


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SATURDAY OCTOBER 10th:

ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.15: Assuming a low draw of two does not put Taajub on the wrong side of the divide, this drop to five should suit. He has plenty of pace in a race lacking its usual substance.

3.30: Class Is Class is inching up the ratings without winning, so it seems obvious to suggest that faced with another hard assignment he represents no value. However, his best effort was over this trip at York when second to Whispering Gallery with subsequent winner Yes Mr President in third. Unlucky in running that day (he may not have beaten the winner), with the draw in his favour and stable confidence on his side, a big run is envisaged. He may find one or two too good, but looks sure to be in the shake up.

YORK HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.20: Lay Claim ran with conspicuous promise at Newbury and despite the price looks banker material for those having multiple bets.

CHEPSTOW HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.55: Tito Bustillo is expected to win this on his way to much better things.

2.30: A drop in the ratings and a recent run on the Flat means that King’s Revenge has the look of a horse capable of recovering the winning thread. Although he has changed yards, the possible clue is that regular partner Robert Thornton rides. Having been faced with tough tasks when with Alan King, he has the look of a horse laid out for today.


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FRIDAY OCTOBER 2nd:

Spy is now away for 10 days… We’ll email you as soon as he returns!

Unitl then…

The Team at Horse Racing Pro.


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THURSDAY OCTOBER 1st:

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

This should be an interesting and informative card.

3.10: All the talk locally is of Manifest, a wide margin maiden winner over the July course. The field he beat was poor but he won as if in a different league. Sidestepping the St Leger, high hopes are entertained and he is expected to win today. He faces a different task against stiffer opposition and, whilst not decrying his prospects, backing unproven horses at short prices when raised in class is a recipe for disaster.

3.45: Khattaab and Hunting Tartan face a similar task after impressive maiden wins but confront much more experienced opponents with solid form. They look decent prospects but it is possibly too early to herald them as being up to dealing with such company.

5.30: Legislate is back on a decent mark in this handicap. Not over big, he receives weight, something likely to be in his favour. He won here in the spring and should go well after a luckless run last time at Goodwood.

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Morana showed enough promise at Sandown behind Hot Prospect to suggest he can open his account. He has some filling out to do but only went down in the last furlong on debut. Awesome Act has the ability but, on the evidence of his Kempton run, not the will.

And that is it from me for a week or so as a break is badly needed. September has been a quiet month for me; I only hope my messages and articles have been of some help, although I appreciate my work rate has tailed off somewhat as we come to the end of what has been a long hard season. I also hope I have pointed some of you in the direction you should take if you wish to be a serious punter. I shall be back. In the meantime, good luck to Sea The Stars and to those of you still in there boxing…

Sept Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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SEPTEMBER


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WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 30th:

This is not a day for me but I can pass on three messages for those that may be interested:

SALISBURY RACING TIP:

4.50 Anne’s Rocket.

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIP:

4.00 Twilight Memory.

KEMPTON RACING TIP:

7.50: Wigram’s Turn.


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TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 29th:

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Angel Rock may be worth a second look in a weak event. Back on a winning mark and more crucially over the right trip, although without experience of the track, he may be worth a small interest.

WARWICK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.40: Red Fantasy ran with enough promise on debut to worth consideration in this maiden. She is not best drawn but such a disadvantage can often be overcome in a maiden. Only if Rule of Nature turns out to be above average would her chance be compromised. She ought to open her account.

Stakes need to be kept to a minimum today. We had a result yesterday when our solitary selection was a non-runner!


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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 28th:

There is little to get excited about from three meetings today.

Noble Greek looks a standout in the 4.30 at WOLVERHAMPTON after a second in the Convivial Stakes at York. Chances are he will be priced accordingly.


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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27th:

Today may offer some interesting racing but it is littered with imponderables.

ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.05: Record Breaker looked all set to win at Doncaster a fortnight ago when bursting clear but failed to stay the 1m 7f. Back to his best trip in a hard but not impossible handicap, and representing a yard in top form, he looks one of the more likely winners, although his low draw is hardly helpful. It seems there is always a stumbling block!

2.40: This is something of a conundrum. Campanologist does not truly stay and has a penalty so is an unlikely winner. Kingdom Of Fife is not guaranteed to stay either and has to improve if meeting some of these rivals on a going day. Macarthur has ability but seems to dispense it sparingly. Red Rocks needs to return from the night of the living dead, as to extent does Masterofthehorse. Palavicini is gradually getting there, whilst the interesting contender is the potentially classy Mawatheeq, another untried over this trip and facing a rise in class.

3.15: Strike The Deal is on a roll and may rack up the hat trick. This is his hardest task to date but he has always had ability, which it would appear Keiren Fallon has been instrumental in unleashing. Based on yesterday’s results, a high number would seem advantageous, possibly ruling out Mariol who would otherwise have a claim. And the authorities wonder why betting turnover is down!

At the CURRAGH we have two most informative juvenile events. The Goffs Million Sprint looks too hard; though possibly Azmeel will stake a claim to be one of the leading two-year-olds with a victory in the Goffs Million. There is plenty to like about him; his two wins having been scored in taking fashion. He takes on several unknown quantities but ought to be in the picture. This son of Azamour appears to have the ideal temperament for the big occasion.


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SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26th

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

The Berkshire track stages one of the great meetings of the autumn.

2.30: The well regarded High Twelve is seen as the best betting opportunity in the Royal Lodge Stakes. John Gosden houses a strong team of juveniles and High Twelve is said to be up there with the best. He has looked a little special on his two runs to date and his class is taken to be decisive.

4.15: Opposing Rip Van Winkle would seem pointless and unrewarding. However, with only three opponents and no obvious pace-setter, it is possible this could develop into a tactical affair. Said to have the speed to win a July Cup, Rip Van Winkle would appear to have everything in his favour whichever way the race pans out. He should confirm his position as the second top-rated colt in training but is no betting proposition. Delegator, who barely stays a strong run mile, will be suited by a slow early pace.

CHESTER RACING TIPS:

2.15: Jacqueline Quest is expected to win at a short price.Her second at Newbury to Queens’ Grace and her advantageous draw gives her the look of a banker.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

4.05: This is a tight looking maiden. There is a word for Miss Antonia and connections of Dancing Queen seem to feel she can overturn Goodwood form with Zahoo on a more conventional track.

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25th:

 

ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.00: The form of Tryst does make one look twice. A second to the progressive Roaring Forte back in May suggests he is well handicapped. Despite his absence he is reported to be in good shape, but requires some give in the ground and it is possible he will not participate if it rides fast. We will have to see what affect the watering has had on the surface.

3.10: Being a cheap purchase, Shamandar gets another chance at a big sales pot from a highly advantageous weight. She appears to have at least ten pounds in hand and a draw bias or bad luck in running would seem the only obstacles.

3.45: Snoqualmie Girl did win with something in hand at Chester last time and may follow up here. I make the race between her and Mischief Making, a filly we have not seen since her attempt in the Newcastle Plate. This trip is more up her street but the absence is something of a concern and she may improve for the run. She is worth keeping an eye on with a view for the future.

WORCESTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.05: There is a word for Uffa Fox here. This is a horse that has been fancied before and failed to deliver. But he is a big price and could be worth a blind man’s bet for small stakes.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.20: The last run of King’s Bayonet can be disregarded as it was in the hurly burly of the sales race won by Midnight Martini. His previous run, when close with Butch And Sundance (upheld the form from 86 at Ayr) suggests he can win this unless there is a un-bargained for smart one in the pack.


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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24th:

PONTEFRACT:

2.30: Racy may be average in the scheme of things but showed enough on debut to win a minor event. With temperamental issues surfacing over Ghost, Racy should open its account today.

4.30: Musaafer is another short-priced contender that looks primed for success.

KEMPTON:

8.30: Although Stoic and Musleh have obvious claims they look exposed and need to improve their game to win. The lurker could be Penitent who looks open to improvement.


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WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 23rd:

Once again the day does not have a punter-friendly look to it, so there are no suggestions from this quarter.


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TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22nd:

There are no recommendations today.


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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21st:

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Dahaam has quite a bit going for him and although likely to start a short price should get punters off to a winning start.

3.30: Faithful One ran with promise at Salisbury on her solitary effort to date and with the draw on her side is taken to beat those she opposes that have form.

A case can be made for Muwalla in the 4.20 at Leicester on his third to Coordinated Cut at Doncaster. The problem is this run was out of sync and horses from his stable have a habit of showing erratic form. We have to pass!

Passkey ought to win at Hamilton and Jaseer looks well handicapped on his return to his best trip at Kempton but the absence is disconcerting. So it looks like Dahaam and Faithful One.


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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 20th:

UTTOXETER HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.50: Irish import Farinelli seems to have more chasing experience than his rivals and is apparently in good heart. He has bits of hurdling form that hints he may be better than his opponents and could be the one to be on against Kangaroo Court and the unpredictable Seven Is My Number.

Otherwise it is a quiet day.


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SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19th:

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.20: Although he does not shine in the mornings, Radiohead has proved he is a different proposition on the racecourse. An excellent third against the older brigade in the Nunthorpe last time, back against his own age group he will be hard to beat.

2.50: I managed to miss Charm School last time having been of the opinion he was crying out for a step up in trip. He vindicated that opinion with a decent win but faces stiffer opposition today. However, it is not inconceivable he will follow up in one of the less tough handicaps on the day.

AYR HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.35: Beyond Desire will be short but is a likeable filly that caught a tartar last time in Star Of The Desert; with nothing of that calibre to beat today, she should win.

3.10: It is madness to contemplate anything in this. I will state that Hitchens has looked all season like a horse being groomed for a big handicap but, hey, who gets races like this right.

5.00: Punters have a chance in this handicap, which looks to be between Scuffle – who deserves to win something like this – and Lang Shining who has his ground and, taking into account the claim of his capable rider, races from a 6lbs lower weight than when we last saw him. Scuffle may be the safest option.


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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 18th

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Godolphin expect to continue their current momentum with their juveniles with Ameer who has benefited greatly from his successful debut.

3.55: Doncaster disappointment Stimulation may not be the safest bet here and Huntdown, a horse that has always threatened to win something decent, is seen as the alternative. The 3lbs he receives may help to tip the scales in his favour.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

Looks tricky. There is a word for Miss Miracle in the 2.30, but with so many unknown quantities in the field it is difficult to select her at this stage.  The same applies to Dherghaam in the 2.00 and to Robinson Cruso in the 3.40, both of whom showed distinct promise on their initial runs.

AYR HORSE RACING TIPS:

Earlsmedic turned in a highly promising comeback effort at Doncaster last week and if he can build on that, although he has ground to make up on Rasaman, he may be the best option in the Bronze Cup. He can only be a tentative selection in a tough race though.


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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17th:

Some hard, hard handicaps today but there is a good word for Notice Given in the 2.10 Yarmouth and on a struggle of a day that will do…


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WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 16th:

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

2.55: Botanist has apparently improved since a gentle enough introduction at Newbury and is expected to transfer that improvement into a win. He showed enough promise to suggest he can win a race or two and being by Selkirk the rain that has fallen at Esher should not be too much of a problem; but as a note of caution, they had something approaching a deluge yesterday.

3.30: Treadwell may not be a genuine short price contender in the 3.30. Third in a three-horse affair to Al Zir at Doncaster last week, with a penalty and pitched against some potentially useful types, he looks the sort to start at a false price.

4.05: Bankable has his chance to get back in the winner’s circle here although the ground may not be ideal. His best form is on a sound surface.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

4.30: Hidden Brief is potentially interesting if all is well after a three month absence. The ground should not be problem for a daughter of Barathea, who looked a smart prospect last time we saw her, but the fact she has been off the track for this amount of time is clearly a warning sign.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

5.45: Awaseef should open the night’s card with a win.


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TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 15th:

 

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.20: Theocritus should be too good for modest company.

2.50: Considering how far she won at Folkestone last week, Qelaan looks well treated lining up under a 6lbs penalty. A follow up looks on the cards.

3.50: Al Dafa – a confident stable call –  completes a trio of uninspiring selections, but they don’t pay any extra for originality on days like this.


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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14th:

There are no suggestions or bets today.


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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13th:

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

2.00: Cansili Star carries some stable confidence in the nursery. His form to date gives him a definite chance and she should be thereabouts.

2.35: Jesse James has been something of a slow burner for John Gosden but his latest win, when accounting for subsequent dual-winner Stoic, surely means he would be reassessed in an upward direction if the handicapper had a chance. He has always threatened to be decent since a highly promising run at Newmarket last October and now Invisible Man has blotted his record, it could be Jesse James that will step up to represent his stable in the Cambridgeshire.

The quality action takes place at Longchamp on the day that stages the Arc trials. At 2.40, in the Vermeille, we see the reappearance of Stacelita – the filly compared to Zarkava when she won the Prix Diane. She is no betting proposition, particularly with Dar Re Mi in opposition. John Gosden’s filly looks better than ever this year and represents stiff competition. A comprehensive win here by Stacelita could see her book a ticket to the Arc.

Cavalryman is hard to oppose in the Prix Niel at 3.10. Having beaten Age Of Aquarius and Mastery in the Grand Prix de Paris, with Behestan behind, he seems to have the opposition pretty much covered.

Vision D’etat is the third potential star on show and should  account for Spanish Moon and Crossharbour in the Prix Foy.If these races go to plan, then we could be in for a terrific Arc de le Triomphe this year.


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SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 12th:

 

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

1.55: Poet’s Voice represents the solid form line of Elusive Pimpernel and the in-form Godolphin stable. He will be hard to beat and looks a worthy favourite against an Irish challenge that may not be the strongest.

 

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

5.30: Last time he ran Proponent gave the impression he may be about to come into form. A winner in the autumn as a juvenile, he has a fair chance in this tough looking handicap.

CURRAGH RACING TIPS:

3.20: This trip is a minimum for Yeats but is the optimum for the classy Schiaparelli. Opposing Yeats can be costly but it is rare he takes on horses of Schiaparelli’s class. The Godolphin representative will like conditions and is seen as a value alternative.

Alfred Nobel is expected to win the two-year-old Group 1 event.


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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11TH:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.35: Sand Vixen proved that the minimum trip was within her compass at Newbury when sealing her latest win in the last stride at the expense of subsequent winner Shamandar. Her form is solid, at least on a par with that shown by Misheer, and she looks the one to beat. Although a winner over five, Misheer’s best form is at six.

All eyes will be on Seta and Al Zir in their respective races. Both are short and have something to prove but they may well consolidate their reputations today.

4.25: Presbyterian Nun ran a promising race last time behind Whispering Gallery – form that is working out well. Dropped a pound for that eye-catching effort, although she has been something of an under achiever, she must have a good chance of breaking a long losing sequence in this.

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.25: Hot Prospect looks just that after a highly promising second to Vale Of York on debut. It is hard to see anything beating him today.


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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10th:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.35: Richard Hills has deserted Alfathaa here but a fair substitute has been found! Alfathaa has not had the best of luck in running in recent attempts but looks likely to improve for this step up in trip. He is a tentative selection in a race not many look capable of winning.

3.10: Taajub looks embarrassingly well in against the likes of Lowdown who is set to concede weight. Taajub’s second to Showcasing is standout form.

4.50: The bet of the day is Royal Confidence. She is an autumn filly that has twice won at this meeting – including in this event last year. Her latest effort when third behind Confront and Dream Eater may flatter her slightly but was still a good run that has been franked on three fronts – Aqlaam ties in with this form and won the Group 1 at Deauville on Sunday. Without doubt this form exceeds anything Fantasia has achieved this year, although her second to Rainbow View in the Fillies’ Mile at Ascot as a juvenile would put her in here with a fair bit in hand. Leaving that aside, Fantasia has not replicated that form this season and looks worth opposing. Royal Confidence is clear second best and should reward each-way players by being in the three and possibly proving good enough.


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WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 09th:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.00: Ransom Note did not achieve too much when winning at Chester, but showed a decent attitude for a raw two-year-old that had been highly tried on debut. The handicapper may have erred on the side of leniency by according a mark of 75.

3.10: Twice Over ought to be capable of lifting this; he is difficult to oppose.

4.20: It is surely only a matter of time before Akhenaten wins a race although the handicapper does seem to have nailed him correctly. Today’s opposition all seem to be in the same boat.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.50: For those not preoccupied with events at Wembley, Ottomam Empire is a strong call and if he is the horse it is claimed, he ought to be up to taking this from a rating of 85.


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TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 08th:

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.35: Despite a unfavourable draw today, Zahoo showed enough on her debut when slowly into stride behind a subsequent winner to appear the likely winner. She finished strongly in eye-catching style and should know a lot more today. Dancing Queen is expected to go well. Although she ran with some promise on her initial run, she is unlikely to come on as much as Zahoo who left the impression she is potentially useful.

3.10: After a fine run over this course last time when fourth to Black Snowflake, Contract Caterer gets another bite at the cherry from only a 1lb higher mark in the nursery. Course experience counts for plenty here and the form with Black Snowflake was not devalued when the Godolphin representative finished third in a decent event at Salisbury last week.

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Folly Bridge looks the natural winner of this after a good run behind Mon Cadeaux last time.


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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 07th

FOLKESTONE HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.20: Ordoney is likely to be a warm order here granted his connections. However, his form his ordinary and he may make the market for those prepared to look elsewhere. Palacefield is seen as a value alternative.

4.50: Qelaan looked like a filly capable of winning races in the spring, but of course her stable have had to endure a spell on the sidelines since. She returned to action with a decent effort at Kempton and from a mark of 70 ought to be capable of taking this handicap.

BATH HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.35: Hajmah looks an obvious candidate after finishing third in a Newbury maiden, but at the price and granted the apparent weakness of the race at the Berkshire track, he is passed over on this occasion.


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SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 06th:

There are no selections today.

York’s card looks like something devised by a casino.

The day’s main race – the Prix du Moulin – takes place at Longchamp. Although a Group 1, it lacks the substance of a championship event. It seems to concern Famous Name, who is running over his best trip of a mile, Aqlaam and Elusive Wave. There is little to choose between the last two on lines through Goldikova. After two wretched efforts, Gladitorius cannot be entertained, whilst the form of the three-year-old Oiseau de Feu falls short of the required standard.


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SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 05th:

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.55: I may rue the day but I am sticking to Sonny Red to come good here. Everything seems in his favour: ground, trip and jockey. Running-on in eye-catching style last time on fast ground, he is worth one more chance; after all his only bad run was in the Stewards’ Cup.

2.55: Kings Destiny is fancied here, but he is not bred to stay this trip and I am not convinced. If you are, the stable think he will go well.

3.30: I cannot solve this as the principals all have questions to answer. Main Aim may be the safest option but he went out like a candle last time although there was an excuse. Excuses seem to be present for plenty of these and if you are going to back a horse that caries a doubt then why not back one at a price? Bushranger was a Group 1 winner at two and ran well enough on his comeback. If we forget his Ascot run, 33/1 could be too big.

4.05: Yaa Wayl is the word here. Personally, I am prepared to give Sea Lord another chance.

4.35: Emerald Commander should be good enough here. He represents the solid form of Elusive Pimpernel.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.40: If Kirkless is to get this trip it will be here but that is no foregone conclusion. All The Aces is the logical alternative but, like Bushranger at Haydock, for those brave – or foolhardy enough – a case can be constructed for King Of Rome to create an upset.

3.45: Awesome Act is a confident stable call.

5.25: It is one run too soon to dismiss Worth a King’s who is visored for the first time.

LEOPARDSTOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.50: With the ground against Sea The Stars and the trip on the sharp side for Fame And Glory, it is hard to get enthusiastic from a betting point of view about this. Surely a race to watch.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.50: There is plenty of confidence about Logos Astra in this his first venture into a handicap.


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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 04th:

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.20: Brief Look appears well treated in her first venture into a handicap. She should be too good for the opposition and is expected to win.


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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 03rd:

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

This looks the venue to concentrate on; they stage an interesting card.

2.10: The well entered Dancing David may be too smart for the opposition here; that remains to be seen. Raine’s Cross looks best of those with form. Beaten two lengths by Big Audio at this track last time, he will appreciate this belated step up in trip and expose any first night nerves Dancing David may experience.

2.40: Magnificence has apparently improved a great deal for her debut at Newmarket. She is expected to figure much more prominently today.

3.50: Having won a run-of-the-mill race at Ascot, Walk On Water looked to have thrived during the interim when reappearing at Chester. She is a filly going places and will take the beating. The one word of warning is her draw of 1, which may not help her cause.

4.25: Photographic returns after 57 days on the sidelines. It is assumed that connections have waited for the ground to ease after subjecting this daughter of Oasis Dream to three quick runs on fast ground. She has an action that suggests juice will help her and with overnight rain having fallen conditions should be perfect. Her form reads well and a mark of 94 is not prohibitive.


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WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 02nd:

It is possible to construct cases for several today but the stand out is surely Champagne Style in the 2.50 at Lingfield. He ran a race full of promise at Sandown on debut, and looks to face easier opposition today. It will be a major surprise if he is beaten.


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TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 01st

Markazzi is the focal point of an otherwise mundane day. He runs in the 2.20 LEICESTER, having made a pleasing debut at Newbury. Already having three lengths in hand of Cultivar, he should open his account here. A short price, he is no betting proposition and I formed the impression he will improve with time. Nevertheless, the stable are confident he will win today – something he should accomplish without too much effort.

Aug Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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AUGUST


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MONDAY AUGUST 31st

A Bank Holiday washout as far as Bush Telegraph is concerned. After admittedly what was only a quick look, the conclusion is there are no bets today.


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SUNDAY AUGUST 30th

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.05: After costing his followers, it would appear that seven furlongs and a hold up ride is what brings out the best in Marching Time. His opponents today are a far cry from those he was at one time scheduled to face. Fancied by his stable, despite a low draw, he should be too good.


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SATURDAY AUGUST 29th:

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.50: Dafeef ran with a great deal of promise on debut at Salsibury, has come on in leaps and bounds since, and is expected to step up considerably. He has Bonheurs Art to beat but is rated as one of the better Godolphin youngsters.

2.50: Azizi looks progressive and is the target for the rest to aim at.

3.25: Palace Moon gets his chance to win today in what is a tight race. He has to be the selection but faces several serious rivals.

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.10: Delegator has been working brilliantly by all accounts. A mile seems to stretch his stamina but this is the place to last home. However, Zacinto is progressive and most likeable. He has plenty to find on Delegator but only having had three runs, he could easily be capable of breaking into the big league. This looks like a race to watch.

3.45: This looks to be between Sent From Heaven, Full Mandate and Snow Fairy but arranging them in order is tricky.

BEVERLEY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.35: Spin Cycle gets his chance today in the right company and from the right box. Worth consideration.


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FRIDAY AUGUST 28th:

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

1.20: Despite a pedigree that suggests she will need more time, apparently Miss Miracle has been showing enough at home to justify her place in a Newmarket maiden and small support. She is expected to go close.

2.20: Deauville Post looks like a colt travelling in the right direction. A line through Dubawi Phantom means he is closely weighted with Missionaire, but Deauville Post looks an improving type and is taken to win this. Paper favourite, Whippers Love looks opposable.

2.55: Awesome Act makes limited appeal at the price but his second to the much vaunted Al Zir will be held up to the light by his run today. He is well regarded.

3.30: Triple Jig has apparently improved significantly since finishing seventh to Al Zir and Awesome Act over this course and distance. This son of Gone West is expected to win today.

5.10: It may be a bit late to ‘blow the bloody doors off’ with Getcarter, but he still looks feasibly treated from a mark of 76.

THIRSK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.35: Second to High Twelve on his only outing, Corsica should open his account here.

3.10: Super Collider is another juvenile expected to step up on a promising debut at Newmarket. Sixth to Simeon and Timely Jazz in a race that is working out, in Ultravox he meets a horse that has not progressed and looks beatable.


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THURSDAY AUGUST 27th:

Another difficult day to decipher: There is a message for Adele Blanc Sec in the 3.50 Lingfield, but she faces serious rivals in the shape of two colts and it is hard to be confident. At this stage it is a struggle to unearth a bet.


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WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26th:

WARWICK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Marine Spirit looks to have been let in lightly in the nursery from a mark of 82. He beat a well-fancied opponent in Subtefuge tidily at Folkestone and appears to hold every chance of following up.

4.00: Suffolk Punch may represent some value against Lamh Albasser. His failure to handle Goodwood means his last run can be ignored; whereas, albeit slightly flattering, his Epsom form is relatively strong.He is seen as a value alternative here to the Godolphin favourite and Stags Leap.

Cases can be made for two old campaigners elsewhere. Collateral Damage is a rogue but has his conditions at AYR, whilst the honest Mr Wolf must have a chance from a favourable draw at CATTERICK.


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TUESDAY AUGUST 25th:

With low-quality meetings, it is a quiet day on the racing front today.

Nothing is advised.


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MONDAY AUGUST 24th:

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: After what has to be regarded as an unlucky debut over course and distance last time, Sunraider has a chance to atone. The newcomers do not look obvious sharp types and providing there is nothing of any great strength in opposition he should open his account.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.40: The somewhat unreliable Ashram is by-passed here as preference is for the more dependable Brief Encounter. On official figures Andrew Balding’s representative has ground to make up on Ashram, but he is sure to be suited by the surface, finished in front of Ashram last time (albeit there was a hard luck story) and is seen as an uncomplicated alternative.

4.40: Bawadi is not the sort one should back really as his form is weak. But such was the impression created last time over this track that he is hard to overlook.

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SUNDAY AUGUST 23rd:

There are no selections today although the clash in the Prix Morny at Deauville at 2.50 looks one to savour. Two of the most promising British juveniles put unbeaten records on the line. So far Canford Cliffs and Arcano have looked well above average; whichever comes through this confrontation can lay claim to being the best current two-year-old of the season.

The French are represented by Special Duty and Zanzibari but it would be something of a shock if either were to prove good enough to lower the colours of our team. Canford Cliffs is the horse that will draw the attention of race watchers and nothing less than a smooth display will satisfy those that have taken the plunge for next year’s 2,000 Guineas. This represents a serious test despite a price that suggests victory is a foregone conclusion.


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SATURDAY AUGUST 22nd:

This is one tough day littered with handicaps!

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Strawberrydaiquiri is expected to win although her price makes her of limited appeal.

4.55: After the run of Walk On Water yesterday, Bab At The Bowster looks like a sensible selection in the nursery. True she made hard work of winning at Brighton, but the track may not have been ideal and today’s opposition does not look overly strong.


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FRIDAY AUGUST 21st:

YORK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.15: This is a very tricky race. Perfect Stride is fancied but has to be filed under the’ unreliable’ category for me. Forgotten Voice is flattered by his Goodwood run, Russian Sage, over his best trip, will be a danger to all if fit after a layoff.

2.50: Confront is fancied but has had all the chances for me. I also happen to think this is a harder race than the one he was beaten in last time. Huntdown can win this if fit and well. His now-you-see-me-now-you-don’t profile is off putting but he is a big horse that may have needed time. He had winner etched all over him when second at Newmarket. Secret Society continues to improve.

3.25: Kingsgate Native is another that can win but does not appeal as a bet. I am equally unconvinced by Radiohead. This could be set up for an outsider.

CHESTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Having failed to handle Epsom, I have doubts about Akhenaten acting round Chester. He can win against this opposition but it may be a case of the boat having sailed.

3.40: Diamond Laura’s form is solid and on the assumption that Walk On Water beat little at Ascot and was fit that day, I shall row in with Mrs Carr’s representative who is already a course and distance winner.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.25: The penalty may beat Big Audio. Black Snowflake is improving and will have to raise his game again to win this. Dreamspeed will appreciate this step up in trip and providing he breaks on terms, is the other serious runner.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.45: I am tempted to think Wigan Lane ought to win a seller. This may not be the smartest of calls as her last two runs have been poor. On her first three efforts she would have an outstanding chance.


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THURSDAY AUGUST 20th:

YORK HORSE RACING TIPS

2.15:If Lady Of The Desert is the horse they claim she will be hard to beat. Beyond Desire is all strength and looks primed to run well.

2.50: Scuffle would have a definite chance if the ground eases after a fine run last time at Newmarket behind yesterday’s winner, Whispering Gallery. Mirrored is inching up the weights and although should run well, things appear to be getting tougher for him.

At Epsom, Emirates Roadshow is fancied in the 7.30.

After such a good effort at Sandown, Passkey may be good enough to open her account in the 2.40 at Lingfield.


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WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19th:

YORK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.00: Class Is Class ran a race full of promise at Newmarket where not much went right. Even allowing for a troubled passage from an immature horse, defeat by the useful duo Firebet and Roman Republic reads well. Now 5lbs higher and over an extra two furlongs, he ticks a lot of boxes. The stumbling block is the price but he is hard to oppose.

2.50: There is a good message for Showcasing but to my mind Monsieur Chevalier is the form horse and the type to win a Gimcrack. A professional two-year-old with speed to burn, those opposing him may be looking the proverbial gift horse in the mouth.


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TUESDAY AUGUST 18th:

YORK HORSE RACING TIPS:

Day One and a day featuring three top class events, although the turnout for the Juddmonte is disappointing.

The 2.15 could turn out to be one of the best two-year-old races seen so far. As well as the obvious contenders, I particularly like Sea Lord as a horse (may not be good enough) so this is a race I will be watching with a great deal of interest.

2.50: The bet has to be in the 2.50 where Alwaary – very much a horse on the upgrade – has to be given preference over Harbinger. Alwaary’s fourth to Conduit in the King George entitles him to be favourite and the 9/4 should be snapped up this morning. In what is seen as a two-horse affair, he should be too good for Harbinger on this occasion.


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MONDAY AUGUST 17th:

There seems little to get animated about on this the last day before York.

Brief Work will be short but is seen as the only possibility today in the 4.00 Kempton. A good second last time, she is expected to open her account here.


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SUNDAY AUGUST 16th:

 

One message today and that concerns the Prix Jacques Le Marios –

3.25 at Deauville:

Gladiatorus is said to be back to the sort of form he showed in Dubai during the Carnival when labelled by some as the best horse in the world. He certainly looked good when dominating the three races he contested and despite a poor run in the Queen Anne, is worth chancing at the odds today. Goldikova is a formidable opponent but should not be odds-on for this – a much tougher assignment than when she won the Falmouth at Newmarket. The form of the French 2,000 Guineas, won by Silver Frost, has taken a knock or two and he looks set to struggle in this elevated company. Never On A Sunday could be the other runner, but a back-to-form Gladiatorus will be hard to peg back.


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SATURDAY AUGUST 15th:

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS

1.30: Dylanesque is reported to be well above average; a big run is expected. With several possible dangers also unraced it is hard to be dogmatic but Dylanesque should be in the shake-up.

2.05: Labelled as John Gosden’s best two-year-old, Azmeel faces a hike in class after a ready win in a Sandown maiden. Unlikely to be a betting proposition but hard to oppose.

2.35: The first of the two feature races – both of them may not be as simple as they look. Mourilyan had a hard race at Goodwood two weeks ago and Kite Wood did not beat a lot at Newmarket. They are the form horses but holes can be picked in them, whilst Basaltico has so far looked as if a mile-and-a-half is the limit of his stamina.

3.10: With enough ease in the ground after watering and a light morning drizzle, Border Patrol would be the pick. Most progressive at the start of the season, he has the profile of a horse capable of winning at this sort of level. At present plans for today are fluid. As for Evasive, he has something to prove and there is the nagging question as to why Cheveley Park Stud – not normally an outfit to sell horses – let him go. On suitable ground, Border Patrol looks the part.

3.45: Swift Gift is fancied in what looks a winnable race. He can be tricky but runs best fresh and should go well after a break.

NEWMARKET looks tough. Cases can be made for Bounty Box and Electioneer in their respective races without them warranting bets.

RIPON HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.55: If, if and if. If the ground remains good to firm; if the draw does not play a major part in the outcome; if we can find the winner…Hitchens has the look of a horse laid out for a race such as this. He is best on fast ground so rain would scupper his chance but races from a handy mark. As always in these events, luck plays a massive part.


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FRIDAY AUGUST 14th:

NEWBURY HORSE RACING PRO:

1.20: There is an encouraging word for Markazzi here. In Pounced, he faces a horse to respect rather than to be feared. Michael Stoute youngsters invariably improve for the outing but if Markazzi is as good as stated, he will take the beating.

1.50: Harvest Dancer is the each-way shout in this.

3.30: It is surprising to see Sand Vixen dropped in trip after staying on over six last time. Shamandar looks the form selection.

Plenty of racing elsewhere but to be honest little in the way of betting opportunities.


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THURSDAY AUGUST 13th:

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

Two short priced good things are included on the card. Waseet ran well enough at Newmarket on debut to suggest most maidens would be within his compass.

He should not be pressed to open his account in the 2.50. Mezenah is a confident stable call in the 4.00.

3.25: Is interesting but tricky. Lindoro and the lightly-raced but well regarded Prime Exhibit are the two that may be worth concentrating on.

4.35: Farleigh will welcome any rain and is in good shape and expected to go well from a stable in terrific form.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.15: Last year’s winner Ordnance Row will relish a drop of overnight rain and represents value. Confront has never realised promise shown as a juvenile and looks a take on. Laa Rayb may not reproduce his Goodwood form; this is a winnable contest.

CHEPSTOW HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.50: Vanishing Grey is expected to win the opener on the card.

NEWCASTLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.00: Bow Beaver created a decent impression when winning first time at Carlisle. A big horse, it is no surprise he has been given time, so assuming his absence is not the result of a setback, his form looks better than that represented by Spying. Bow Beaver can win this on the way to something better.


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WEDNESDAY AUGUST 12th:

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

2.30: The card kicks off with a quality maiden. There is a word for Gallant Eagle who finished fourth to Arcano at Newbury. He returns after a bout of sore shins on ground likely to be on the firm side, and is by Hawk Wing. Can win but not for me. Carnaby Street, Cansili Star and Mon Cadeaux are among serious opponents.

3.00: Frozen Power may be good enough to win what looks an ordinary nursery.

3.35: Marching Time may have an issue or two and would prefer some cut. Again, one with a good chance but limited betting appeal.

BEVERLEY RACING TIPS:

2.40: Love Delta showed promise behind Stags Leap at Goodwood. On that evidence he has a definite chance of winning this lesser maiden from an all-important advantageous draw.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

2.50: Farncombe’s recent third to Sir Isaac looks enough to secure victory in a modest maiden.

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

5.30: Speedily bred Wellington Fair faded over six last time behind Lucky General at Windsor. A drop to five should help his cause – however, the low draw is a negative.

7.10: Sir Isaac has claims here in a race where many of the market leaders look exposed. From his low draw he will need the breaks.

A tough day with limited opportunities. Farncombe looks the best proposition, but the price threatens to be short.


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TUESDAY AUGUST 11th:

This is not an ideal betting day but there are a couple of possible candidates for small money.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.00: Reddy To Star cannot boast the best of records, but her problem is that she barely stays five furlongs. This sharp track(similar to Chester where she ran well from a bad draw) and nursery company presents here with what could be her best chance. As long as master tactician Philip Robinson can conserve her energy, she looks value to last home.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

8.40: Dark Moment is another that is hardly mortgage material but he does have ability. A slow starter last time, he made up a deal of ground at Hamilton and providing he jumps on terms today has little to beat.

So, two suggestions with definite doubts that are likely to be overpriced as a result and presented with their chances if they are smart enough to take them.


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MONDAY AUGUST 10th:

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.15: Connections have always held Ottoman Empire in some regard. Unable to find suitable ground they have decided to try their luck on the Fibresand. Backing horses on this surface without experience is risky, but this looks a weak field. Brief Look looks the danger but a sixty day absence is off-putting and the race she finished second in at Newbury was nothing to write home about in any case.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

6.20: Gene Autry is worth another chance to realise the potential he showed first time. Strongly fancied at Ascot last time, he fell in a heap having travelled like a dream before finishing fourth to Sea Lord.. Form on Ascot’s straight track is not always reliable these days and a drop in trip may help Gene Autry to make amends.

7.50: With Richard Hughes opting to ride Beauchamp Xerxes, presumably in preference to Gearbox, the inference is that the Hannon newcomer is opposable. Beauchamp Xerxes has had too many chances to contemplate, so despite an absence from the track since June it may be worth taking a chance with Awesome Surprise, whose fourth to In Footlights at Newmarket should be good enough.


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SUNDAY 9th August

REDCAR RACNIG TIPS:

2.10: Aquarius Star ran two races in one on debut at Beverley. Slowly away, she had to overcome greeness on a tricky track for a newcomer but stuck on stoutly when second to Spying. I suspect that was a better run than that shown by likely favourite Cash Queen Anna in a Newbury maiden won by Connipton. With the benefit of that first run, Aquarius Star ought to be good enough to open her account at Redcar.

Windsor looks tricky and Leicester is a spit in the wind away from being abandoned.

At DEAUVILLE the major event is the Prix Maurice de Gheest. Installing Naaquoos as favourite does seem to involve a leap of faith. Even if recovering his best form with the likes of Milanais, Silver Frost and Bushranger, it is questionable whether that entitles him to be favourite for a race such as this. It may not be a vintage renewal but a personal best and then some is required from Naaquoos. African Rose may have the edge on her preferred ground but it is not an easy race to call.


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SATURDAY 8th August

In order to be successful at betting you need an edge. That means knowing something others do not or being able to see something others have missed. Today’s cards are such that even if you think you are in possession of such an advantage, the races are so tough that it may not help.

However, let’s start with the Shergar Cup:

As usual the races are closely matched handicaps.

1.45: Polly’s Mark has the best chance which is why she is favourite. She can win but is not a good thing at 5/2.

2.20: Moynahan wins this on bits of form but the trouble is he has not won for two years and often teases with a good run followed by a bad one. He is not sensible betting material. In-form City Of The Kings is a solid alternative (horse he beat – Webbow – ran well next time) but we are asking him to win three on the bounce and he is drawn on the outside.

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.25: Battlemaiden is fancied to step up considerably on her debut at Ascot. She needs to.

3.00: Chachamaidee is the form horse but as befits a Group 3, the race looks tough.The extra furlong is not sure to suit her but if it does she will be hard to beat. Long Lashes, a winner on the soft in Ireland, will presumably face very different drying-out ground today.

3.35: I made a note of Al Khaleej last time when he was a staying on eighth behind Knot in Wood. Now stepped up to seven, he should go well despite top weight.

4.10: Tabassum is the best message here. Watch out for Dancing Queen though; she has done plenty of work and is said to be useful. She could run well at a price.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

3.15: Libel Law is fancied each-way but obviously Dancourt will be hard to beat.

Best bet of the day? Don’t know – have to leave it you and hope what I have passed on is of help.


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FRIDAY 7th August

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.10: Gibb River has taken time to fill his frame but stays well and in a weak race should open his account.

BRIGHTON RACING TIPS:

3.30: Carmenero is not the safest betting conveyance, but this track suits monkeys and he is well enough in to be nominated. However, backing such animals does involve obvious risks. (The return may be less than you invested as the adverts for fancy financial packages put it.)

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

7.50: Native Ruler is another talented but backward three-year-old that has taken time to mature. Working well at home, he is expected to take this step up in grade in his giant stride tonight.


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THURSDAY 6th August

BRIGHTON RACING TIPS:

2.30: The presence of Bab At The Bowster at such a lowly venue as Brighton indicates the worth of the Ascot maiden in which she finished third to Walk On Water. Nevertheless, she should be up to opening her account against modest opposition.

 

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

6.45: High Twelve is not a betting proposition but having finished second in a high class maiden his participation lends interest to an otherwise mundane card.

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

6.05: There is a word for Golden Rosie here. Yeees…

6.35: Marine Spirit should win this but he did look something of a worrier at Newmarket, which could be a concern. Apparently, Subtefuge is above average.


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WEDNESDAY 5th August

Plenty of racing today but limited betting opportunities, at least as I write. I shall just stick to one selection, which I feel should win.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.05: Astonishment gets his chance from a favourable draw and with the invaluable assistance of Ryan Moore, who could have ridden the Hannon horse should he have chosen so to do. In fact Astonishment’s opponents look mainly poor and this represents Astonishment’s best chance to date.


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TUESDAY 4th August

A quiet day on the racing front:

L’enchanteresse should win the 2.40 at CHEPSTOW, but no prizes for originality!


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MONDAY 3rd Aug

RIPON HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.15: It is possible that Crime Writer will improve for a step up in trip. Caught out by a slow pace and a race that developed into a sprint at Sandown last time, a mile-and-a-quarter may bring out improvement.

4.15: Cherish The Moment has run two good races although his last when behind Native Ruler at Pontefract was abysmal. However, there is a suspicion he may not have been right that day and despite a 96 day absence, it is unlikely he would be sent on a mission to Ripon if connections feel the run is needed.

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.30: Weeping Willow is said to be useful and at the moment is the best message received. Love And Devotion is a nice type that should run a race without being anything out of the top drawer.

8.00: Decent ground is essential for Ottoman Empire – a horse his stable has always liked. This is a tricky one as the prospect of no rain may make the ground borderline, in which case the horse could run when it would be better if he waits for a more forgiving surface. Expected to win if he runs, but that was the word last time and they ran him on ground that was too firm.


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SUNDAY 2nd Aug

There are two horses worth a second look for those of you involved today, but they are more selections than bets:

 

CHESTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.30: With the plum draw, Doncaster Rover looks to have an outstanding chance here. His recent Newbury third to High Standing may be somewhat misleading, but it leaves plenty to play with and he should take the beating.

 

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Fallen In Love appears to have the best credentials but may not be favourite as to an extent she is exposed. Phillipina might improve past her, but Fallen In Love looks like being value against a filly yet to justify the hype.


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SATURDAY 1st Aug

 

There is racing today – lots of it. Serious overkill; I have lost count of the number of meetings. No matter, as the only one that counts is Goodwood, at which there are a couple of serious betting opportunities.

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

2.30: There is a strong message for Zacinto here. Despite the penalty, my preference is for Donativum – particularly at the likely price – but it would be foolish to dismiss the word from the Sir Michael Stoute’s yard about what was a one-time Guineas aspirant.

3.05: Providing we get the promised rain (not a given on the evidence provided by the weathermen this week), Rainbow View is a confident call to regain the winning thread. This is the first time she is faced with conditions likely to suit. The trip will be ideal. A mile is too short, a mile-and-a-half too far. It was easy to jump to the conclusion after the Guineas that she had not trained on but that was a premature call. The ground beat her at Newmarket, the trip in the Coronation and Falmouth (when only just over a length behind Goldikova); now with some ease in the ground she gets her chance. Rainbow View will return to her best today and is overpriced to do so.

3.40: I confess to being part of the Sonny Red gamble yesterday. I have been banging on about his chances for some time when stepped up to six and faced with easy ground. He is another for whom the rain is a bonus but there is no doubting he is well treated on old form and there is every sign he retains his ability.   That’s it. They are welcome to the rest of their tips and whispers at Timbucktoo, I shall stand or fall by the three mentioned: Donativum – small bet: Rainbow View – good bet if the rain arrives and Sonny Red – possibly followed by a serious bottle of red to either celebrate or commiserate.

July Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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JULY


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FRIDAY 31st July:

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

2.10: A fit Muhannak has the ability to win what could be a messy race. His wellbeing is subject to conjecture after 125 days on the sidelines so paddock inspection is vital. However, this Breeder’s Cup winner strikes form at this time of year and this race is within his compass.

4.00: This is more of an interesting race than one to bet in. Apparently Dick Turpin comes here at the peak of his form, whilst Rakaan represents Canford Cliffs and Showcasing Arcano.

4.35: This is a tough nursery. Black Snowflake and Contract Caterer look the two open to improvement.

5.45: Green Beret will be a confident call for many in the closer. Unlucky last time, he makes a habit of running into trouble. He can win but has little in hand of La Zamora and may start at an artificially short price.

THIRSK RACING TIPS:

3.15: The right opportunity seems to have been found to kick start Truly Asia’s winning career.

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

7.00: Poet’s Voice’s recent third over this course looks good enough.

BATH RACING TIPS:

6.05: I can pass on a word for Wisecraic here.

This has the hallmarks of a quiet day. However, we may be strapping the betting boots on tomorrow.


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THURSDAY 30th July:

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

2.10: Mirrored is considered as Listed or even Group 3 material by his stable. The step up in trip is expected to suit and whilst backing favourites in handicaps is not always the wisest course of action, with the draw in his favour and a shortage of obvious dangers, Mirrored may be the exception to the rule.

3.25: Schiaparelli has improved greatly since his run at Newmarket when in need of the outing. This has been his objective and with connections seemingly confident of his ability to stay the trip, he has the best form and looks a cut above his rivals. He should win.

4.35: In an entirely different vein to two strongly fancied contenders with strong form claims, Akhenaten is suggested as a horse that should not go unbacked now he steps up to seven furlongs – a trip that will suit. There is a big race in this horse before long and at the price he is worthy of an interest.

5.10: Laureldean Spirit ran well enough on debut to have the measure of Water Biscuit and Ghazwah. This may not be a strong contest and she is taken to get off the mark


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WEDNESDAY 29th July:

So it only rained at Newbury then. According to the report, Goodwood’s ground is unchanged from yesterday. If they say so…I guess!

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Most of these can be discounted on grounds of going (assume it must ease at some stage), stamina limitations and weight over such a mammoth distance. I suspect the race can be boiled down to six runners. My three are Aaim To Prosper, Last Flight (fit from hurdling and a proven stayer) and Sweetheart. With give in the ground Last Flight could be the value.

2.45: Big Audio should not be dismissed lightly as he got no run in the Superlative at Newmarket in what turned out to be a bunch finish. Two of the main dangers are sired by unreliable stallions – Lucky General being by Hawk Wing, Xtension by Xaar. Chaperno looks progressive without lighting any fires and Dreamspeed’s Sandown win is suspect. In short, too tough to call.

3.25: This is the showpiece of the day if not the week. Unfortunately, the prospect of Rip Van Winkle participating after a heel problem means his chance may be compromised. It is asking a lot for Ghanaati to beat the colts; she will have to be very good to do so. Course winner, Paco Boy, who is not adverse to juice in the ground, may be the safe alternative but he has had a long season already.

5.10: Club Tahiti would appreciate some cut and may be of minor interest if the rain arrives.

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.55: Deauville Post sets a decent standard for this having run a race full of promise at Epsom when failing to handle the track. Sea Lord franked the form at Ascot, but Deauville Post would be vulnerable if Azmeel is as useful as his breeding suggests he could be.

7.30: There is a word for Al Qeddaaf for this. He is another for whom rain will be a bonus.

LEICESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

7.10: Nbhan gets his chance against moderate opposition tonight.

A day to tread to softly…


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TUESDAY 28th July:

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Alfathaa looks primed to get the meeting off to a flying start. After two excellent runs this season – fifth in the Hunt Cup and then occupying the same position in a competitive Sandown handicap when his chances were scuppered by a bad draw – everything seems in place for a big run today. He has the draw, which Richard Hills – not the most effective rider at this difficult track – will have to make full use of. Judging by the way he was finishing from a hopeless position last time, this step up in trip should suit the son of Nayef and Alfathaa has a no-excuses chance today.

2.45: This looks tricky. Harbinger is the interesting contender but his absence since Chester has yet to be explained. It is early in the day, but the vibes at this stage do not seem to be in his favour. That means too many unknown quantities could bust the door down.

3.25: It is hard to escape the obvious claims of Main Aim. Having failed to see out the mile of the Queen Anne (still ran well) and closed at the death in the July Cup, it seems seven furlongs is his best trip. He is the class act, carries stable confidence and ought to oblige. His morning price looks about right.

4.00: There is a chance this fast five may find Monsieur Chevalier out. However, opposing him has not paid off so far and Richard Hughes’s argument that five allows him to give his mount an uncomplicated ride are the remarks of a jockey with a brain. Monsieur Chevalier will have his knockers at the price but I shall leave that to them. Main danger is Iver Bridge Lad, a fine strong son of Avonbridge, but having missed the boat at 14/1 last time, I am not inclined to back him today. These look the principals in the race that I shall almost certainly sit out.

The remainder of the card looks hard so I shall stick to Alfathaa and have a recovery bet on Main Aim if required.

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MONDAY 27th July:

A quiet day with the weather one again influencing decisions. Not that there are that many to make:

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.10: Planet Red was at one time considered to be a Coventry contender but obviously has encountered a setback since a promising debut at Newbury. It is presumed he is in fighting shape now, in which case he should carry to much firepower for Ghost – who played up in the paddock at Newmarket and whose demeanour needs monitoring.

YARMOUTH HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Rain will suit Shibhan and its anticipated (but not to be taken for granted) arrival may be all that is required to allow her to land what looks a moderate maiden.

Goodwood starts tomorrow and we should be able to unearth several opportunities throughout the week.


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SUNDAY 26th July:

The card from Ascot has been designed by the Devil himself. Interesting it may be, but trying to pluck winners seems next to impossible.

On a dry day, Racketeer appeals as the day’s most interesting participant at PONTEFRACT in the 3.50. An easy winner of the Esher Cup, it was discovered he was not fully sound when returning with a minor ailment after finished just under three lengths behind the extra smart Border Patrol next time. A return to anything like that form will result in success here so he should be monitored closely in the meerkat market – sorry, market!


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SATURDAY 25th July:

YORK RACING TIPS:

3.10: There is plenty of confidence for Kirklees, a horse that is said to have improved since Sandown. However, Curtain Call has the better form to my way of thinking and is overpriced at 9/2. In the hope the ground does not dry out too much, I am backing Curtain Call to foil the message horse. Kirklees has had problems in his career and, whilst he may have too much toe for Curtain Call, has yet to win races back-to-back. This is betting after all and I would rather take 9/2 Curtain Call than 2/1 Kirklees.

4.15: Loveinthesand created a good enough impression on debut to appeal as the winner here. Slowly away and racing on ground that appeared too firm, he nevertheless gave Leviathan – who ran well yesterday – a run for his money. Expect him to do better today.

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

1.25: As usual there is a lot of deadwood in this. In my opinion the race boils down to Pravda Street, Golden Desert and Elna Bright and I shall side with last year’s winner Golden Desert.

The rest of the card is hard. The ground is unlikely to be soft enough for Redford in the 3.50, and although I cannot see beyond Conduit in the 4.25 I do not propose backing him.

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

4.35: Headline Act is a horse of interest, but again, I am afraid the ground is likely to dry out thus compromising his chance.

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

7.05: Well thought of Kanaf should get off the mark here against the useful filly Deloria.

My two suggestions on the day are both at York:  Curtain Call and Loveinthesand.


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FRIDAY 24th July:

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

3.50: Strawberrydaiquiri is no price but expected to continue her progression in the Listed race.

The rest of the card is a struggle. As, to my mind, despite the glut of racing, is the day. I can pass on a word for Opera Prince in the 5.35 but that only signifies how desperate things are!

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

6.10: Bruton Street looks likely to be suited by this step up in trip and may be up to winning a modest maiden. On the other hand the Royal Applause colt Decision is not guaranteed to find this rise in trip suitable. Galilean Moon’s form thus far looks no more than average at best.

Tomorrow, if we do get the anticipated rain (had a shower some thirty miles from the course as I speak), then Redford may be worth a second glance in the Abu Dhabi International.


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THURSDAY 23rd July:

On a day of obvious selections, the best opportunity may lie at DONCASTER this evening, where in the 8.25 Sweet Hollow gets her chance in a handicap from a lenient mark of 71. The ground and the track was her undoing last time at Chepstow. With the surface on the easy side and a drop of rain forecast she should have enough in her favour to go close. She is fancied by connections and only if the ground dries out would her chance be compromised. She is worth one more chance.

On the same card, Russian Spirit has an obvious chance in the 7.20 and should go well.

BATH RACING TIPS:

2.20: Dubai Set’s chance is obvious and he should be good enough.

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

4.30: Dancourt looks another obvious selection for this.

There is nothing wrong with including short and correctly priced horses in multiples but it is not advisable to back them singularly unless you feel you have an edge.

Sweet Hollow for a small win bet looks the best wager of the day.


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WEDNESDAY 22nd July:

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.00: A tenuous line through Duplicity suggests Dubai Miracle has the edge over Wriggle. However, it seems fair to say Duplicity is an improved juvenile and as Wriggle’s form is the more recent and he is entitled to improve on his debut, he gets the vote. It would be unwise to get carried away with either form line as each race needs to taken in context and overall there seems little between the two. Wriggle is therefore nominated as value and the gelding with the greater potential.

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

7.05: Cadley Road is expected to leave his debut run at Epsom behind and open his account. Well thought of in his powerful stable, he will take the beating. Logos Astra showed promise in a moderate maiden first time, but the fact he was an intended runner in a Class 5 at Lingfield on Saturday night (withdrawn on the ground) means he has more on his plate in this. The wild card is Spa’s Dancer, reported to be John Hills’ best juvenile. This is something of a baptism of fire for him and one cannot help but think an easier first assignment could have been found. However, expect to see him supported and presumably to run a race. Cadley Road should be too smart on this occasion.

7.40: Thousand Miles has solid handicap form and could be the value against Emirates Sports. After a good run last week at Newmarket when fifth to Brief Encounter and Crackdown, this drop in trip to seven could suit and he looks overpriced this morning at 7/1.


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TUESDAY 21st July:

There are just the two horses of possible interest today:

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS

2.15: Quaestor is fancied by his stable.

FFOS LAS RACING TIPS:

3.30:  Radio City did not stay the six furlongs at Epsom last time so that run can be ignored. If the ground turns soft he will not stay it here either, but on decent ground, as a horse with plenty of toe, a mark of 70 puts him in with a sporting chance reverting to the minimum.


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MONDAY 20th July:

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

3.45: Luminous Gold looks the pick in this handicap. Fourth behind Zowington last time at Folkestone when racing on the unfavoured side of the track, a liking for easy ground and no such bias means a level playing field today. Luminous Gold has every chance of bettering that run here.

Once again we are faced with a day containing a big portion of doubt as regards draw and ground.

AYR RACING TIPS:

At AYR it is possible to construct a case for Yesnabay in the 3.00 after a promising debut, but the subsequent run of Melody In The Mist casts a shadow over the form.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

At WINDSOR three serious contenders line up for the 7.20. Itwasonlyakiss may be vulnerable despite a positive stable message. A line though Water Biscuit means there is nothing between the promising Outshine and L’enchanteresse.

Luminous Gold looks the day’s safest wager at this stage.


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SUNDAY 19th July:

Nothing makes appeal today – so a chance be pretend we are almost normal!


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SATURDAY 18th July:

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

3.55: The progressive Covert Ambition has every chance after his second in similar company behind his stable mate Kirklees at Sandown.

4.30: Bugaku has obvious claims in a handicap that should not take much winning. He found the tight track at Kempton against him when behind Covert Ambition last time and appears on the upgrade. A 5lbs hike is not unreasonable and being by Montjeu he should cope with the ground. However, there is a big message here for proven soft ground performer Jaser. One of the two ought to win.

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

2.35: This looks a two-horse affair between Flame Of Gibraltar and Splashdown. Although she is on a crest of a wave, Flame Of Gibraltar’s form does not quite match that of Splashdown who looks as if this step up in trip will suit. It is a tight call but Splashdown gets the vote.

3.05: Sovereign Remedy is fancied for this but the race looks tricky. Maswerte will be suited by this extra furlong whilst others enter the equation. Not a race for me.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

5.55: Logos Astra takes a drop in class to contest this maiden having finished a promising fourth at Sandown. However, with Dreamspeed doing everything wrong and still winning and those immediately behind looking moderate, that may not have been the best of maidens so, whilst Logos Astra should win, he may not be one to take a short price about on a Saturday night.


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FRIDAY 17th July:

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

At the time of writing the ground should be about perfect and ride good. We seem to have avoided the overnight deluge that has caught so many unawares.

2.35: On a day cluttered by obvious selections, surely the bests of them runs here. Emerald Commander demonstrated a great deal of promise last week at Newmarket after a slow start when fourth to Elusive Pimpernel. Said to be out of the top drawer in the powerful Hannon camp, it will take a very smart newcomer to lower his colours with that experience behind him.

3.10: Showcasing is another that looks to be heading in the right direction. Second to Arcano over this track on debut, this step up in grade looks within his compass.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

4.05: Lochan Mor may be worth chancing. Ease in the ground should not bother him but should it become a bog,the meeting is best avoided.

As for the other meetings: somebody somewhere will doubtless find betting material, but at this stage the cards look more like fantasy racing from Portman Park.


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THURSDAY 16th July:

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

5.00: Assuming the forecast rain arrives then this looks between Ottoman Empire and Merdaam, both of whom have achieved their best with give in the ground. Seaway has had more chances than an appealing convict on death row. Ottoman Empire has a lofty reputation but it is fair to say Merdaam’s third to Bridge Of Gold at Newbury, when the ground was on the easy side, looks the best piece of form on offer.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

8.40: On rain-softened ground that may end up softer by this time, Charlie Tokyo comes into the reckoning on the back of a fair run at Pontefract last time.

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

6.40: Dubawi Phantom’s habit of starting slowly may find him out over this track. Yarra River ran with promise on debut and may be the each-way alternative with Sea Lord the unknown quantity.

Right now weather conditions may have the biggest influence on results.


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UPDATE…

Sorry, but an urgent matter means I will be away for four days and cannot load any messages until Thursday July 16th. Maybe, in conjunction with Track Notes, some of you may relish the opportunity to stand in for me. It will be good practice and, who knows, you may discover you can do a better job!


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SATURDAY 11th July:

 

YORK RACING TIPS:

2.35: Lang Shining has conditions to suit today and comes into the reckoning despite carrying top weight. Obviously out of his depth in last week’s Eclipse, a drop in the ratings combined with easy ground gives him a chance in a winnable handicap.

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

3.25: I liked the manner of Wigan Lane’s victory at Doncaster last time when the step up to six furlongs suited her. Her previous effort at Chester indicated better was to come and from a mark of 71 and from an in-form yard, she makes a great deal of appeal in this nursery.

4.35: Sonny Red is a horse I am keeping a close eye on for the rest of the season in the belief he can lift a big sprint handicap now that he has slipped down the ratings. All the signs are he wants six furlongs and give in the ground. Although it may be tempting to think the booking of Richard Hughes suggests today is the day, this may be a dress rehearsal for the Stewards’ Cup at Goodwood.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

FRIDAY 10th July

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.30: It is hard to get away from Crackdown whose latest run at Sandown (had a hard race only six days ago) was boosted by Roman Republic yesterday. A previous win over Firebet makes him the clear form choice.

2.00: Emperor Claudius threw away the Chesham at Royal Ascot when starting slowly and giving himself too much to do. Narrowly beaten by Big Audio – who also did not have an easy passage – Emperor Claudius should gain amends.

2.35: There is a chance Captain Brilliance could bounce to the moon and back today. Possibly not best drawn in 1, I am looking elsewhere. Redford is the logical alternative although should the ground dry out it may compromise his chance. Probably too hard to call and for perm-bettors only.

3.10: The Australian and South African challengers face a track the like of which they will never have experienced before. For that reason, I am prepared to look beyond Scenic Blast who may need crampons to ascend the hill. This is a hot event in which, although in all honesty he is unlikely to win, I feel Ancien Regime is grossly overpriced at 50/1.

4.55: Bullet Man will be suited by this step up in trip and is the selection in the last.

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

4.10: Lemon N Sugar won in such style last time that even a 7lb weight rise is unlikely to stop her if she retains that form.

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

9.00: Unlucky last time, Equinine gets her chance to atone.


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THURSDAY 9th July

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.30: One of a card full of races that may be more difficult than they look. If staying this extra furlong, then Free Agent brings the best form to the race. His fourth last time is to my mind the level to aim at. He beats Tactic on a line through Sight Unseen and is relatively fresh after just the two runs this term.

2.00: Arcano made a big impression on debut and the form has worked out well. Orpen Grey is a strong two-year-old that steps up in grade but should run well – although this stable ran what was allegedly their best two-year-old on Monday at Windsor. Nosedive was murdered in running at Ascot and this extra furlong looks sure to suit. I make it between Arcano and Nosedive.

2.35: My preference is for Roman Republic who ran well from a wide draw at Sandown on Saturday and should be suited by this step up in trip. I have a message for Emirates Roadshow. This is no easy race to solve but they would appear to be the two against the field.

3.10: Opinion is what this business is all about. Those without one bounce about on the whims of others – those with one often look out of kilter and foolish. I will risk it as I am not intent on having a bet here. The obvious selection is Duncan, but I formed the impression at Epsom that he was flattening out in the last hundred yards. For that reason I have to wonder if he truly stays this trip in this sort of company. I have similar doubts about Campanologist.


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WEDNESDAY 8th July

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

A couple of tough handicaps open the card. Cases can be made for Photographic on this easier surface and Foundation Room in the 1.30. Fillies’ handicaps are notoriously tricky.

2.00: I shall take a small chance with Akhenaten at the price. This ground may help and after a break (by his standards at least) he may be fresher. He gave the impression of running flat at York. He is capable of winning a race of this description.

2.35: Habaayib is fully entitled to start favourite for the Cherry Hinton but would-be-backers would do well to bear in mind she did race on the fastest strip of ground at Ascot. Even so, she looks a decent and worthy favourite.

3.10: GOLDIKOVA appeals as one of the bets of the season. Only if there is a marked changed in the ground would confidence be tempered. Forget her last run, the race was run on treacle. She is a filly that comes to hand in the latter part of the season (never won before July) has claimed the notable scalps of Paco Boy and Natagora in her time, won a Breeders’ Cup and is the only genuine Group 1 filly in the line-up. She is overpriced this morning, being the result of a collective industry follow-the-leader miscalculation.

3.45: Expect to see money for Erfaan in this. He has improved since finishing behind Arcano at Newbury.

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.05: Quaestor

5.40: Janeiro are expected to add to the Dascombe stable tally.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIP:

9.20: Pumpkin is fancied to follow up here.

Goldikova the bet…


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TUESDAY 7th July

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.00: Dark Prospect seems to have plenty of weight in this. The other market leader, Applaude, goes into this as a maiden. The two best treated runners appear to be Jeer and Charlie Tokyo, both of whom will appreciate the anticipated ease in the ground. Jeer has the hallmarks his cute trainer employs. Hardly a prolific winner when with Ed Dunlop, he was successful from 85 over a year ago. A mark of 72 gives him a real chance today and he could be worth a small investment.

5.00: Gibb River ought to win the 5.00 but lacks the profile to make him a confident call at the price.

5.30: Zouk is a decidedly dodgy favourite in the last. What looked like a promising debut turned out to be in poor race. His form is moderate; however today’s contest is poor so although he makes no appeal he may have little to beat.

Jeer the suggestion. Tomorrow looks a great deal more interesting


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Monday 6th July

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

6.30: Reluctant Sandown participant and eventual non-starter, Classic Colori is subject to positive reports. Those who saw him at Sandown were not overly-impressed by his demeanour and he has to race from an unfavourable draw tonight. However, the stable message is that Classic Colori is one of the best juveniles in his stable. After his reluctance on his intended debut, it might prove prudent to wait until he arrives at the start before making a judgement.

8.00: State Banquet may be the answer here, although a two month absence is slightly off-putting.


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Sunday 5th July

 

CHANTILLY HORSERACING TIPS:

Provides Group 1 action this afternoon. The Prix Jean Prat is somewhat light for a major contest. Lord Shanakill, considered a non-stayer until his recent third in the St James’s Palace Stakes, probably brings the best form to the table but non-winning form is often misleading. Westphalia has contested his three races this year in France, running with credit without proving quite good enough in their Guineas behind Silver Frost and in the French Derby. His form is solid and he is a dependable sort. The German challenger, Irian, looks short of the required standard but is on the upgrade. The French defence is weak – Oiseau De Feu looking held. This does not look like a race to bet in but Westphalia is once again the solid contender that should be there or thereabouts.

Today’s domestic racing is not for me.


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Saturday 4th July

 

And I am concentrating on Sandown.

SANDOWN HORSERACING TIPS:

2.05: This looks a three horse affair. There may have been excuses last time, but Ialysos has to bounce back from a poor run. His best form is with give in the ground and I am prepared to overlook him. Triple Aspect is on the upgrade and a the one to collar. Anglezarke’s effort in the King’s Stand at Royal Ascot sets the standard yet she is the outsider of the three mentioned. She has to be the value and is the selection.

2.40: With so many of the usual suspects turning up, the progressive Mirrored and one-time Guineas prospect Alfathaa look the unexposed two. Both come here after top class efforts at Royal Ascot. Although neither has a good draw and such handicaps can throw up strange results, they are hard to get away from.

3.15: Sea The Stars ought to win and confirm himself as one of the best Derby winners in recent years. However, Conduit will let him know he has been in a horserace. The showpiece of the day and surely a race to watch and savour.

3.45: This could be a big day for the Michael Stoute team. They are confident Strawberrydaiquiri is destined for Group company and that she is good enough to take what looks a sub-standard Listed event.

4.55: Maswerte was impressive at Newbury and it will take something smart to lower his colours.

5.30: Raaeidd ran a cracker in a hot York handicap and meets animals of a lesser calibre today. Fancied by connections, he ought to be good enough. Anglezarke, Strawberrydaiquiri and Raeidd look solid bets here.

HAYDOCK HORSERACING TIPS:

2.20: Rain would help the cause of Headline Act who looks well handicapped.


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FRIDAY JULY 3rd:

Obviously with rain forecast throughout the country and the possibility of the odd fierce storm, it is advisable to wait until we see what conditions are like at the various tracks before betting. As it stands, despite the glut of racing, messages and opinions are limited:

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.50: De Stefano seems versatile as regards going and gives the impression he is only now realising potential shown at Newbury. His third to Strike The Tiger at Royal Ascot looks good enough against such company.

4.00: Kirkless is expected to win for Godolphin. The race looks tricky and I had not intended to become involved. However, if reproducing his best Kirklees would be good enough.

5.00: Strathcal looks on an upward curve and as if this extra two furlongs will suit. Much will depend on the ground.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.10: Black Snowflake and Gunner Lindley bring similar hard luck stories to the table here. Of the two, the message for Black Snowflake is the stronger.

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Mubrook does have some form that flatters but apparently is expected to go close.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.05: Lofthouse looks as if he is fairly treated from a mark of 65 and could be one to consider for those on the twilight shift.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JULY 2nd:

Plenty of racing today but not too many betting opportunities.

YARMOUTH HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: Showcasing ran a race full of promise at Newbury in a maiden that looked good and is starting to work out. However, an Oasis Dream, he demonstrated a pronounced knee action and a going description featuring the word ‘firm’ would be of concern for what is sure to be a short-priced favourite. He faces five very well bred newcomers.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Sweet Hollow is fancied to belatedly get off the mark. However, she is starting to look disappointing. Going For Gold may be a better each-way alternative. She ran with promise three weeks ago at Newbury.

EPSOM HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.20: It is about time Agente Romano got himself on the score sheet. He surely gets his chance here.

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

It is not often they race here and one is scratching to find a bet. Gallagher ran well enough at Royal Ascot but it is hard to be confident about him tonight. His stamina will be tested by Plum Pudding who could set the race up for a strong finisher – something that would suit Patrician’s Glory. Tricky…


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WEDNESDAY JULY 1st:

A quiet start to a new month for Bush Telegraph. Just so that followers do not feel Mr Telegraph is enjoying just a little too much of the current weather and possibly watching too much tennis, he is currently slaving away constructing the latest And Another Thing article which should be on the site later today.

June Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

BUSH TELEGRAPH

JUNE 2009


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JUNE 30th:

BRIGHTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.30: Espy is almost presented with this race and ought to win. He has shown a preference for downhill tracks and there will be no excuses offered if he fails to lift this.

THIRSK HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.00: Ballodair will be a short price after an excellent second to Aerodynamic at Nottingham. He has a dodgy draw in two and although it is not the disadvantage it would be in a handicap, it is still a potential problem. It is a problem he ought to overcome but to a degree I am tipping a horse that needs no tipping here.

8.00: Yirga is expected to win again after his cosy Sandown success. Those of you that backed him then may take the view that was the occasion that mattered. His price today is very much shorter it what could be a better event.

My opinion on the day is to consider a small stake multiple bet the three – either a throwaway treble or sling in three doubles. But please remember Bush Telegraph is not just a tipping service. The objective is to highlight horses worth backing rather than to put up winners at all cost. A small treble would be my advice as, at likely odds, all three need to win for a decent profit to be made and I do not consider these particular horses worthy of large wagers.


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MONDAY JUNE 29th:

There may be four meetings today but nothing looks interesting so I suggest a quiet day in the sunshine!


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SUNDAY JUNE 28th

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

2.00: Lord Zenith ran a race full of promise at Newbury. Shuffled around mid-race, he finished nicely on the outside without being knocked about. The race looked solid – there were good messages for the winner and runner-ups – Party Doctor went on to finish third in the Chesham at Royal Ascot. Lord Zenith has improved since and it will be a big disappointment to all concerned should he fail to confirm his promise.

4.10: Practitioner returns to the course he debuted at and seems well treated by conditions in what appears to be a hand-picked second engagement. He beat Abandagold – winner at Chester on Friday night – which is seen as a positive. He does not need to make much in the way of improvement to take this.

CURRAGH RACING TIPS:

4.20: Some short-price favourites can be watched; others, for those prepared to back to a narrow margin, are short with the thumb. That applies to Fame And Glory as far as I am concerned. After a fine effort at Epsom, he should attain his compensation over this stiffer track and with what promises to be a more searching gallop.

SAINT-CLOUD RACING TIPS:

3.30: If Fame And Glory is a solid short price favourite, Youmzain is a dodgy one. I am no psychiatrist (something you may have noticed), but something stands in the way of expected victory and Youmzain. This renewal of the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud is not a strong one. The betting mistake is Spanish Moon – 10/1 with Ladbrokes. He has already beaten Youmzain when running a cracker in Nad Al Sheba, and is the sort of perverse character to run well when his back is to the wall. Too big at the price and worth taking a chance with. His form entitles him to be in the mix. Don’t worry about him loading. If he fails to, then nothing is lost, but I would be confident he will go in the stalls today.     


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SATURDAY JUNE 27th

Going changes, draws, horses racing over unproven trips – just another day at the office! However, there are a couple of solid looking bets on the cards. Let’s deal with those first:

CURRAGH HORSERACING TIPS

3.40.  LOOK HERE looks a banker to win the Pretty Polly in Ireland –

Everything is in her favour after a massive run against the colts in the Coronation Cup.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS

CANDY RIDE looks well treated from 75 in the 5.10 . She won with something in hand last time and has always appealed as a decent filly in the making. These are the two best bets of the day in my opinion.

Staying at Windsor, Premio Loco ought to win the 3.00 and there is a word for Warringah in the 4.05.

NEWCASTLE HORSERACING TIPS

At Newcastle in the 3.10 so many of these look doubtful stayers. I know Meshtri is fancied and feel he and Ajaan are two against the field that will at least get home.

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

Newmarket and the 3.25 has a punter-friendly look to it as there are negatives aplenty surrounding so many. I am dubious of Imbongi over this track and on this ground. Express Wish can’t win with the penalty. Al Qasi is apparently undercooked. Dream Eater has only ever won once, and Huntdown reportedly needs it. How about taking a chance with Balthazaar’s Gift who is closely matched with Imbongi on Dubai form, will like the ground and has run well at this track.


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FRIDAY 26th June

Mr Nick Rust of Corals is lamenting the fall in betting turnover. You know what they say about rust never sleeping: take a look at today’s cards Mr Rust and see if you can, in all seriousness, nominate a sensible wager.

You have six meetings in Britain to choose from and one in Ireland. Forget selections – ideas for others to pick up and run with – is there a horse contained within any of the meetings that tempts you personally to confidently risk your own money? If so, let me know what it is.

Take Folkestone: by and large it is the usual rubbish and we have the vagary of the draw to contend with. We assume we want to be drawn low on the straight course but rain may change that. The 4.15 is not a bad event. You could make a case for Halsion Chancer but all his wins have been on the Polytrack. We assume Mabiat will be favourite at probably cramped odds.

Chester – over to you again Mr Rust. You are the one complaining about the turnover: What should I back? Simplification after a 72 day lay-off? Course winner H Harrison at the age of nine? Have I missed something?

Newmarket on Friday night. I wouldn’t mind going for a few beers and to listen to the band. But is there a bet? Avertor in the 9.10 – that will win won’t it? For a stay at home punter, does he really sabotage a Friday night to back a horse in the 9.10 when he could be out with his mates or taking the missus for a meal?

What about Too Tall at Doncaster in the 4.35? Showed promise as a two-year-old but disappointed last time over a mile. Dropped back to seven furlongs. Is tonight the night Mr Rust?

NEWCASTLE: Yippee! it is the Gosforth Cup. Six of them are handicapped to dead-heat. Hitchens looks capable of winning this sort of race but you would think six furlongs would suit better. So what is it to be: Hamish McGonagall, Cheveton, River Falcon, Pvershooz, Indian Trail or Captain Dunne? What price I have not named the winner?

This is why turnover is suffering Mr Rust. Punters are not the idiots you and the rest of the bookmaking fraternity seem to think. If they fancy a gamble they might as well do so in style and stand in a casino, with a beer in hand and one eye on the girl in fishnets. So over to you Mr Rust, you’re the clever man, what should I back today?

(This Article also features on Today’s And Another Thing.. Take a look at our other Thought provokers… Here) 


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THURSDAY 25th June

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

3.40: Proven on the surface, Set The Trend has a good chance of causing an upset against some higher rated rivals. There are reasons to oppose several of these – many are returning after absences – Exceptional Art seems best on a soft ground, whereas Set The Trend, by a dirt stallion, is progressive and tough. It is possible this may be his swan song in this country as a deal is in the offing to race in Hong Kong.

4.40: Ostaadi was unable to match Final Victory’s finishing kick last time. The step up to two miles will suit him today and he has every chance of winning what looks a weak handicap.

WARWICK RACING TIPS:

At WARWICK, it is hard to get away from Golden Stream in the 3.50 although she is reappearing quickly after such an excellent run last week at Royal Ascot.


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WEDNESDAY 24th June

 

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

This looks like the Andrew Balding show – the stable fielding five horses all with excellent chances.

2.10: Swan Wings is considered a quality filly and her debut behind Nosedive was advertised at Royal Ascot last week. She looks solid and should start a good day for the stable in motion.

3.15: Cloudesley is another that ran particularly well at Sandown last time, looking as if this extra yardage would suit. Whereas Mabuya has been raised for losing, Cloudesley has been dropped. Unless there is a lurker in the field, he gets his chance to open his account in this. These two look the best from the stable on the day although their other runners all have chances. Yeaman’s Hall is the most interesting and may roar back from eighteen months on the sidelines. He is certainly capable in a race such as this and horses with his profile often run to their best on their reappearances.

CARLISLE RACING TIPS:

This is a hard card by any standards. The Tate yard is in terrific form just now and Russian George is sure to have his supporters in the

3.05, a race in which he has a solid chance. West With The Wind may be of equal interest in the

4.10, especially if there is any market support. A big horse that never materialised his potential last year, it could be he will return a stronger more reliable proposition now.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 23rd June

 

BEVERLEY HORSERACING TIPS

3.45: A chance is taken with Traphalgar who seems to be running into form and looks capable of winning this.

4.15: The draw may be off-putting to a degree, but on the basis not everything can always be in your favour and there are only eight runners, Everymanforhimself looks to have been handed his chance against lesser opposition than he has been encountering.

NEWBURY HORSERACING TIPS

8.30: Faldal looks to be reasonably treated from a mark of 84. Her trainer suggests she may not be suited by fast ground – which she will get – but that is a hard one to reconcile as she is by Falbrav and has form on a sound surface. From a handicapping point of view she looks the moral winner but a ground doubt tempers confidence.

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Monday 22nd June

LINGFIELD HORSERACING TIPS:

3.45: Cosmea is fancied to follow up by his yard. I can’t say I am convinced although he has a chance. Cape Hawk gives the impression of coming to hand. He is yet to win over this trip however, although his two recent efforts at Goodwood suggest he is worth a try. Not a race to have a strong opinion about.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

7.10: Palisades Park is a lazy man’s tip. It ought to win though.

 

7.40: Devil You Know gave the impression there was more to come after his win at Kempton last time. Only raised 3lbs he is hard to get away from.


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Sunday 21st June

PONTEFRACT HORSERACING TIPS:

4.10: After the run of Tyrrells Wood at Royal Ascot yesterday the claims of  Mr Crystal have surely been boosted. He is developing into something of a specialist over this course and stays extremely well. He looks like the best bet on the day.

3.10: William Blake made an excellent comeback at Epsom despite having no luck in running. He must have strong claims.

4.40: Spiekeroog will be a very short price but looks to have been found the ideal opportunity.


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Saturday 20th June

ROYAL ASCOT HORSERACING TIPS

 3.05: The message for Doctor Freemantle leads me to believe he should win. The form pick, he is receiving weight from Bronze Canyon and, although a winner over this trip, Campanologist may find his stamina stretched in this company.

3.45: Sacred Kingdom is the model of consistency and is a very tough performer. A winner of twelve of his sixteen races, the comment from the Coral man that he his form is patchy is hard to swallow. The horse has won his last two, including a Group 1 in Singapore. I can confirm Sacred Kingdom has travelled over well and is in great heart. He has been stabled with Brian Meehan and they are impressed with the horse’s wellbeing.

4.25: Jimmy Styles is nominated by his stable in the Wokingham. They claim he is a Group horse, which he needs to be. 5.35: Amerigo does not appeal as a get out banker in the last. Halla San may be a better option but, as always, it is a case of last man standing over this extreme distance.

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

2.10: Glen Molly was desperately unlucky last time and is fancied to make amends.

REDCAR HORSERACING TIPS

3.30: There is a suggestion that after some time in the wilderness, Mastership is running into form. There are safer bets on the day, but his latest run when sixth to Kavachi, and before that at Lingfield, puts him in with every chance if he reproduces.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Friday 19th June

ROYAL ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS

2.30 Well, she may be a flying machine over four-and-half and five furlongs; but what is she like over six? Aegean will find this a very different test today. Chachamaidee is just one of a clutch of fillies that will expose any weaknesses she possesses. Obviously a tough start to the day but this American filly may be worth opposing.

3.05: I am not convinced about the overall Dante form. The two horses I took from the race as likely improvers were Glass Harmonium and Native Ruler. Black Bear Island has a penalty to concede here and Derby runners have a poor record in this race. I feel Debussy does not stay this trip. South Easter and Native Ruler look the two of interest, Aqwaal has to improve again to become involved at this level.

3.45: One of the races of the meeting! Elusive Wave should be favourite on the basis that her win in France looks better than that achieved by Ghanaati, who is scopey but needs to produce more than when winning at Newmarket to my mind. Those that took the short price about Rainbow View for the Guineas over the winter could do worse than have a small saver on her today. She ran better than given credit for in the Guineas and more importantly the Oaks, which she did not stay, and could surprise.

4.20: Stone Of Scone should reverse York form with Moonscape and looks to have a strong chance.

4.55: Dhushan is extremely likeable and won very easily last time. This is a step up in grade but he gives the impression he should stay; however his price is a scandal.

5.30: This is a ridiculously hard race to solve. I can pass on a word for Drawnfromthepast, a 66/1 and 50/1 shot with the firms. There is no point in justifying it; just close your eyes and back it for small stakes.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 18th JUNE:

ROYAL ASCOT RACING TIPS:

2.30: This is a tough renewal, further complicated by the inclusion of the American horse, Yogaroo. Monsieur Chevalier keeps pulling out enough to win, Nosedive looks better than his first race indicates and carries a high home reputation. I suspect Yogaroo may start favourite but this is not a race for me.

3.05: This looks to be between the highly promising Leocorno and Take the Hint. Leocorno was visually appealing at Sandown, but won off 78 that day. She looks like a 90-rated filly at least but there is no percentage call in her price.

3.45: Veracity is worth chancing in what looks like a quality Gold Cup. Opposing Yeats can lead to tears, but the Gold Cups he has won have often relied heavily on him being last man standing. I believe Veracity has a very good chance of staying this trip and he has been targeted for this. The ground is perfect and despite the form of the Godolphin horses, Veracity is in good order. A winner over two-and-a-quarter miles, if we take his ability to see out the extra quarter of a mile on trust, he has every chance of at least running second to Yeats, who will have to be at the top of his game at the age of eight to lift this for the fourth time.

4.20: This is too hard. There are just too many possiblities that include Desert Creek, Rockhampton, Mutamaashi, Invisible Man and Mirrored. One point here: The draw may not be so significant as many of the better horses race on the far side.

4.55: Four Winds may surprise. His form bears close inspection and on ground he favours a big run is envisaged. he has been trained for today. The Dante form has taken a knock or two, they all finished in a heap and Freemantle, although respected and feared, may not be the good thing he looks. Four Winds looks a solid each-way selection.

My advice: An each-way double Veracity and Four Winds and a win bet on Veracity, seeing how we stand going into the 4.55.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

6.40: Contract Caterer showed enough first time to be of interest here. The extra furlong will suit and he looks as if he is a winner waiting to happen in this company.


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WEDNESDAY 17th JUNE:

ROYAL ASCOT RACING TIPS:

2.30: Ashram is given a good chance by his stable here despite the 3lbs penalty. We have seen better Jerseys than this and he ought to be in the firing line. A first time visor is somewhat off-putting, but his last run behind Border Patrol reads well. Consistency is not his strong suit so he cannot be backed with any great confidence. Against that he looks overpriced because of the Godolphin factor. Deposer may not be good enough but should run well for ‘potters’.

3.05: This trip and the 5lbs penalty threaten to make life tough for Lush Lashes whose task is far from straightforward. Heavent Scent is a solid filly that only needs half a chance and she will take it. What beats her wins and it may not be Lush Lashes.

3.45: Tartan Bearer may tough this out but it is a hard race. The two French challengers are dangerous, but Tartan Bearer has come on for his Sandown experience and that may be good enough.

4.20: Forgotten Voice is very strongly fancied but priced accordingly. It is difficult to recommend a horse at such a short price for one of the most competitive handicaps of the season. That said it does not look a vintage Hunt Cup, but races like this have a habit of confounding. If you follow messages, back Forgotten Voice.

5.30: Say No Now looks well handicapped after the win of Splashdown at Newbury last week. This return to a mile will suit her and providing a wide draw does not hamper her, she has every chance.


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TUESDAY 16th June:

ROYAL ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: A great start to the proceedings on the quality front, but a difficult race to unravel. There are too many iffs and buts. If Gladiatorus can transfer Dubai form, if Main Aim can handle this faster ground in Group 1 company, if Paco Boy is truly a miler. My own view is bookmakers will oppose Gladiatorus and that Paco Boy and Main Aim look relatively solid. Gladiatorus does not look particularly robust (has a terrible action) but so far has been awesome. A race to watch.

3.05: Head on block time: I do not think Amour Propre is good enough. I also feel he needs juice in the ground despite his trainer’s comments. Word is that last year’s winner, Equiano, is back to his best and he looks overpriced. Blinkered first time – not always a bonus – he has been tearing the place down at home. We do know he is capable of winning this and there will be more forlorn wagers struck this week. Fleeting Spirit, from a stable in top form, is expected to go well, but the one draw after watering could be disadvantageous.

3.45: Mastercraftsman looks a cut above these. Now he has proved he has trained on and that the Guineas run was not a true reflection of his ability, he will be very hard to beat. Delegator has had his shot. Lord Shanakill does not stay, Intense Focus has been exposed as below Group 1 standard. Soul City needs soft ground and Evasive looks like a seven furlong horse. The one that could run a big race at a price is Pure Poetry, but Mastercraftsman wins the races.

4.20: Canford Cliffs was very impressive at Newbury and the form has worked out. Expect this extra furlong to bring out the best in Raine’s Cross but, again, he is merely one for perms and pots. Defeat for Canford Cliffs will come as a surprise to connections.

4.55: A tough race by any standards. Clopf looks the most interesting contender and is the selection.

Today’s card at Ascot is all we need. Having been through the supporting cards I am satisfied they offer nothing of any interest.

Best on the day: Equiano each-way – win bets Mastercraftsman and Canford Cliffs. For those looking for big price alternatives: Pure Poetry, Raine’s Cross and Clopf are worthy of small interests.


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MONDAY 15th June:

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.00: Buckie Boy is fancied to open his account by his stable. He does look moderate so confidence this end is minimal.

WARWICK HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.40: I can pass on a message for Tevez who ran well last time on his first attempt since January. Little improvement is required to win this.   Quiet day…


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Sunday 14th June

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

 2.55: But for a slow start, Brisbane may have extended Niran last time at Yarmouth. He looks like a colt on the upgrade and is taken to get off the mark today. Tamanaco was another that failed to hit the gates running on his debut but he looks more stoutly bred and showed less than the selection in running.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.40: Separating Diana’s Choice and Palace Moon is tough in this, the day’s feature. It really is not worth the effort considering the prices on offer. Palace Moon looks like a possible for Group honours later in the year, whilst Diana’s Choice’s form behind top class sprinters in Dubai is hard to ignore.

CHANTILLLY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.10: The Prix de Diane seems to concern the first three in the betting. Stacelita will be very hard to beat judging by her second-season record. She has been winning with a great deal of authority, graduating from a Listed event to a Group 1, which she won with ease last time. She is also a winner over this trip, something that could be crucial. Frankly, she looks bombproof unless there is a marked change in the ground – her wins have come on the soft. Tamazirte is a solid enough second-in considering she finished in front of a disappointing Fantasia in the French 1,000 Guineas. She gives every indication she will stay. Fantasia is difficult to assess. It would appear she has been overrated, but it is too early to make such a sweeping statement on the basis of one run. However, her juvenile form has taken a knock or two and she is hard to back with confidence.

4.30: Getting the allowances, Sahpresa ought to beat sub-standard opponents in the Group


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Saturday 13th June

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

1.50: Forte Dei Marmi looks sure to be supported for this having escaped from jail at Goodwood last time – winning value greater than the official distance. This is harder but he is the one to beat. Thief Of Time may emerge as a big-priced danger.

3.25: Adorn and Triple Aspect are the class acts in this. Both are drawn low, which may not help, but Adorn disliked the ground last time and better is expected. For those brave enough, Jargelle may run better than her price suggests. A winner of the Super Sprint at Newbury, she returns to her optimum trip after various sorties in good company over further.

4.35: All Guns Firing ran well enough last season when third to Monitor Closely and London Bridge to warrant consideration here. Fitness has to be taken on trust.

YORK RACING TIPS:

2.35: Fanjura should be suited by the trip and looks as if he may have been laid out for this. A tough race to win, but there was some encouragement to be taken from his run at Chester last time.

3.10: I may take a small chance with Akhenaten in this. All at sea at Epsom last week, he has been busy of late but is a class horse. He also has what could be an advantageous low draw. He has a better chance than Proclaim on the book and I am not looking to back favourites on a day like this! For those who read Track Notes, I know this suggestion contradicts my latest comments on this horse, but when you nominate 20/1 shots you are always flying in the face of the opinion of others – including to a degree, in this case, my own!

3.40: Marching Time, a disappointment last week at Epsom, is brought out quickly in the hope he can put that run behind him. He played up in the paddock and did not look at ease on the track. It seems fair to say he has been something of an under-achiever to date but may be worth one more chance for small stakes.   To sum up – this looks a hard day and one I feel is best approached with caution. Backing big priced horses for small stakes, at this stage anyway, seems more sensible than following the herd. There are better shorter priced propositions in the pipeline…


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FRIDAY 12th JUNE

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.50: The Mousetrap Handicap, solvable in my opinion. Expect to see improvement from the lightly-raced Godolphin colt, Yirga. Unsuited by heavy ground last time at Haydock, the run has improved him and from a mark of 74 the right race seems to have been found. With a big weight pull with one of the key participants, Laudatory, and a advantageous draw, he should be in the firing line. Backing Godolphin runners just now requires a degree of selectivity; I suggest Yirga passes the test.

4.25: Wintercast should be suited by this step up in trip. He did not get the best of runs at this track last time but still finished a fair enough fifth to Dunno. He is not best drawn but looks as if he should be in the mix.

4.55: Nbhan is reported to be smart. The right sort of race has been found to kick off his second season and a market watch is advised as I am told he is better than his form indicates.

CHEPSTOW HORSE RACING TIP :

7.35: Sweet Hollow should open her account tonight. She took the eye as a juvenile when a strong finishing fourth to Leocorno and with a recent run having blown away the winter cobwebs looks a solid selection.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 11th JUNE

 

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

1.35: Party Doctor is fancied by his stable to go one better in this maiden. He ran a perfectly respectable race at Leicester but this is Newbury and he could easily bump into something here.

2.40: Splashdown is fancied to improve on her Goodwood run. To my eye she had not grown much since her two-year-old days so I have to question where the improvement is coming from. I have to respect the message for her but feel that in Fallen In Love and Apple Charlotte she faces tough opposition.

3.15: Hidden Brief is short but apparently failed to stay last time and her form puts her well in front of these.

4.25: I can pass on a word for Equinine here. Unlucky at Goodwood last year, she would certainly have a chance in a tricky contest.

4.55: Devil To Pay won with a little in hand at Goodwood despite the margin of success. Only raised 5lbs and now over an extra two furlongs, he is the one to beat.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

2.20: Tomintoul Singer should have little difficulty opening her account.

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

2.00: There are messages here for Kanaf and Aerodynamic in what may be an above average maiden for the track.

2.30: Murcar is fancied to follow up on his recent Newbury success by his stable and will relish this extra trip.

3.35: Disappointed though I was by Candy Ride’s apparent tame showing last time, I am prepared to give her another chance. She may have bumped into a very useful type at Windsor.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 10th JUNE

 

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

3.40: The form of Godolphin is a worry. Global City has strung two promising runs together, looking as if a step up to seven furlongs would be to his benefit. He has every chance against such opposition but cannot be a confident call on two counts.

4.10: Mujood has been busy of late – possibly too busy after three runs in quick succession. A tight race but one that may suit Tanto Faz.

HAMILTON RACING TIPS:

7.40: There is a chance of solving this event. Maze is tricky and hard to catch right. Firm ground may count against him and Fishforcompliments and Vhujon look weighted up to the hilt. Nightjar – proven on firm – could be the call.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Countdown may be worth chancing. Well drawn and having run better than his two runs this season indicate, he is, however, at his best on soft ground and is now seven. So a couple of plusses and a couple of minuses. But he has won on this track, has his trip and is a speculative fancy.

8.50: Seems between Final Victory and Ostaadi. Both look progressive. In the absence of any clues, Final Victory comes into this with marginally the better form.   These are no more than ideas on a day that is far from easy and presents plenty of problems to potential players.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY 9th JUNE

 

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIP:

4.30: King Of Defence is fancied for this. I am struggling to recommend him as a bet but the message is passed on for your own opinion.

REDCAR HORSE RACING TIP:

4.45: Luc Jordan should be up to winning this maiden after chasing home Palacefield last time.

CHESTER HORSE RACING TIP:

6.45: Reddy To Star has already proved expensive to follow and is nominated by his stable once more on the basis a quick five will play to his strengths.   To be honest there is little there to get excited over, but I have relayed the above in hope it will be of some benefit on another day dregged from the bottom of the well.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

MONDAY 8th JUNE

 

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIP:

6.50: After a couple efforts in better company, Angelena Ballerina faces what looks an ideal task here. This stiff track and step up in trip will suit and she should be too good, albeit at a short price, for her rivals.

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIP:

7.30: This looks a tempting race. By Command, considered good enough to contest the Lingfield Derby Trial last year, is a well handicapped horse should he be capable if recovering form. His sole win was at this track and he is tempting against some poor opposition. But a small saver has to be advised on Folio, dropped to an all-time low of 67 after a succession of runs on unsuitably firm ground. He does have the ground in his favour tonight and it would not be the biggest shock if he recovered winning form. This is not a race to become embroiled in however as there are plenty of ifs and buts attached to my reasoning.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

SUNDAY 7th JUNE

CHANTILLY RACING TIPS

Domestic racing today offers nothing of interest.

The day’s main event is the French Derby at Chantilly – run at 4.35 and over an extended 1m 2f. And we are back to the old chestnut of will-he-won’t he stay.

Silver Frost is a dubious stayer on pedigree but has a bright turn of foot and was not stopping when winning the French Guineas. He looks an improved three-year-old but should stamina prove a problem,

Westphalia – twice beaten by Silver Frost and himself no certainty to stay on pedigree but a colt that has always looked as if it will benefit him – may have a chance to atone for Fame And Glory’s defeat at Epsom. He is tough but lacks a killer punch. However, he should be thereabouts.

Zafisio could be overpriced at 25/1. He is another whose pedigree is not stamina-laden but he has proved he gets the trip and may stay on with a dangerous run.

Possibly the most likely threat will come from twice-raced Beheshtam. Supplemented for this, he has a stout pedigree and has already won over a mile-and-a-half. His form has not reached this level yet, but this son of Peintre Celebre represents the Aga Khan who has a good record when producing this sort of animal under such circumstances. Except to see French support for him.

I hesitate to oppose Silver Frost but do have stamina worries.

Zafisio is only suggested for those wishing a small interest at a big price.

Westphalia looks a solid each-way call, whereas Beheshtam is hard to assess but looks a big danger to all.


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SATURDAY 6th JUNE

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

1.25: There is a big word for Marching Time here. Unlucky at York last time in a hot handicap, he represents a stable that invariably targets this race with a good horse – Conduit won it last year. The draw has not been kind to Marching Time and he is likely to be well backed this morning – possibly going off at a short price. As an alternative on this suitable rain-sprinkled ground, I am tempted by London Bridge, whose form with Senses and Monitor Closely suggests he could be well treated. Again, he has a wide draw to overcome.

3.45: Form and tip overkill defines the Derby; to quote Ladbrokes: everybody has an opinion. Mine put in a nutshell is the best horse is Sea The Stars but he has to prove his stamina. The best over this trip is potentially Fame And Glory.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

2.35: Emirates Roadshow looks the one to beat, particularly after his latest run behind Desert Strike. He has form on good ground but it remains to be seen how he will cope should it ride on the soft side. That and the current form of Godolphin is off-putting, but he could be good enough.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

2.50: Holyrood looks sure to cope with fast ground better than Alanbrooke, whilst Kings Destiny gave the impression he failed to stay last time.Not a straightforward race by any means but on the assumption the ground remains on the fast side, I quite like the chance of Holyrood.   This is one of racing’s great days. It looks tough from a punting point of view.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 5th June

 

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

1.40: Confront is fancied to follow up on his Newmarket win by his stable. They are shutting the door after the horse has bolted to a degree. This is obviously a harder task for this son of Nayef than the handicap he won last month. Hatta Fort is in good heart and this step up in trip may suit him. He has given the impression that six is too short these days in his two runs back in this country.

2.45: I am prepared to take on persistent loser Youmzain and the filly Look Here. As a result I am left with Eastern Anthem, Buccellati and Duncan. The last-named has the weakest form of the three but could not have won with more authority at Ascot. He is a course winner, which can be important here, and recent work with the speedy Pipedreamer emphasises he is still improving. He will not be the price he should be as he has already attracted a smattering of money and Pricewise has nominated him. Even so, I feel the edge is opposing the first two in the betting, which may balance that out. Eastern Anthem may be best in big fields and coming from a strong pace. His trainer reports he will improve for the run as, in common with many of the Godolphin team to have taken part in the Carnival, he has presumably been let down after a busy desert campaign. Buccellati is primed to run well but Duncan looks a solid selection even though on the face of it he has something to find.

4.05: Sariska is the logical choice for he Oaks. Rain is a possibility judging by early morning skies, which would help her. Actually looking back through Rainbow View’s two-year-old form I am struck by the fact it does not look quite so good now as it did then.

5.25: Satwa Laird showed enough on his debut of the season in a hot handicap when fourth to Brief Encounter at York to suggest he has a big chance. He takes on a couple of likely lads in All About You and Cloudy Start but he does bring solid form to the table.   Best of the day: Duncan and Satwa Laird.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 4th June

 

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

6.45: Rocker is not a confident selection but gets the nod over some exposed rivals. He has been fortunate with the draw and should be more effective on this surface than when encountering the heavy at Haydock last time. A course and distance winner, his run at Goodwood when third to Cake and Little Pete is as good as anything else brought to the table on these terms. For those bored with racing at present, there are two cryptic comments hidden in above remarks; no prizes for spotting them, but looking may save you straying into temptation.

8.25: Twisted should win what looks like an easy maiden. Third to Sam Sharp at Newbury, that form has already been boosted by the win of the sixth horse, Pictorial, at Windsor on Monday. Being by Selkirk, he would not want the ground too firm and that is the only codicil. For the present going description to contain the word ‘Good’ , it would appear that after a period of baking hot weather the track has been watered.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 3rd June

 

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

3.10: Velvet Band showed plenty of pace on debut and this drop back to five should suit. She ought to get off the mark here.

4.10: A good opportunity has been found for Emmrooz. Second to Bankable in Dubai, he meets nothing of that calibre today. Godolphin has not been in form but horses that ran in Dubai have acquitted themselves well enough.

 

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Bugaku is a short price in this handicap. His price seems to owe much to the Michael Stoute factor and that he has been kept in training as a four-year-old. The race he won at Sandown last week was average at best. Second favourite, Covert Ambition is another making a handicap debut after winning a maiden. His success on soft ground at Nottingham last October was eye-catching but it is difficult to know what he achieved. Interestingly, Frankie Dettori has declined the option to ride and the draw is of no help either. So, for those prepared to take on the front two in the betting, there is value to be had. Humble Opinion has claims on solid form when fourth to subsequent winners, Hatton Flight and Dansili Dancer. At 10/1 he represents value on a day when it is hard to find anything outside the obvious.

8.20: Talking of the obvious, Janeiro looks a good thing to win this after a fine run behind Archers Road in the Hilary Needler.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY 2nd JUNE

RIPON RACING TIP:

I am taking a chance with one horse today: Spirit Of Sharjah 3.30. A decent two-year-old, winning his first two races, it has been a case of man overboard since. His latest two runs have strongly hinted at a return to form and also that a sixth furlong will bring out the best in him in this company. With the plum draw and a mark of 87, he has been thrown a life belt. Biggest danger is likely to be Van Bossed but Spirit Of Sharjah is nominated as a value alternative.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 1st June

 

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

2.00: Jira sets a smart standard having finished fourth at Ascot to Little Perisher. It is not earth-shattering form, but it is tempting to think it may be good enough with Capacity from the unraced contingent possibly representing the biggest danger.

CARLISLE RACING TIPS:

2.15: This appears to rest between Yeadon and Silver in the Sand. Yeadon looks to have been installed at a very short piece and it could be that over this minimum trip Silver In The Sand presents a bigger danger than the betting suggests.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

6.25: Nadeen achieved more than was apparent at the time when beating Little Perisher at Brighton and may defy his penalty. Footstepsofspring’s second to Goodwood Maestro will need improving upon if he is to win this. A bigger danger appears to be Antonius Moris.

7.25: Carleton could be of interest in this sort of company but the likelihood of fast ground after what is predicted as the hottest day of the year so far may not be in his favour.

7.55: The presence of the rapid J J The Jet Plane should draw a few customers to the Berkshire venue tonight.

8.25: Pictorial showed enough on debut to suggest a maiden is within his compass. His stable like him, but again, being by Pivotal fast ground would be a worry.

THIRSK RACING TIPS:

7.40: Victoria Sponge has the draw and looks likely to appreciate this drop back to seven, having been caught in the last furlong by Bombina at Newmarket.   With the ground likely to change throughout the day, it is a case of holding fire on the betting front until seeing the actual surface horses are having to cope with.

May Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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MAY


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 31st May

CHANTILLY HORSE RACING TIPS

3.05: Grand Prix De Chantilly: The race of the day and it is likely to result in a close contest between Ideal World and Magadan. Ideal World has arguably the better form and is at his most effective on this sort of surface. Although not a winner over the trip, he was only beaten the minimum distance by Vision d’Etat over a mile-and-a-half; therefore on firmish ground it is hard to see it being a problem. Magadan stays well but his best form is with give in the ground. When he beat Ideal World the ground was heavy. In the belief these conditions will bring out the best in Ideal World, I shall side with him. I suspect he will possess too much toe for his main rival…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 30th May

 

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS

3.25: Perfect Stride, just in need of his first run of the season, has come on significantly since a narrow Ascot defeat and is a confident stable shout today. Premio Loco will be better back at this trip but faces a tough task in trying to concede 3lbs. Yamal faces a hike in grade, Unnefer is better over further; Perfect Stride should make the most of the perfect opportunity. He is likely to shorten this morning

5.40: Riggins was an expensive failure last time when denied a run. He is expected to make amends.

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

2.30: Alrasm seemed to wilt in the ground at Newbury on debut. He is expected to rectify that today.

3.00: Fanjura is an interesting contender here after an eye-catching run at Chester last time.

4.40: Falcativ appeals as the sort we have yet to see the best of.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS

2.35: Montbretia ran well enough on her first run of the season to be of interest now she is stepped up in trip.

3.05: Main Aim has to stay this seven in this company (which he should do) and providing the ground has not dried out drastically should win. He represents little value but looks a horse going places.

4.10: Spin Cycle put up a very good performance against older sprinters last time and is taken to beat this field now he is back in his own age group. The extra furlong would only be a concern if the ground is testing. I am assuming it will dry out during the day – making it good – so last night’s conditions are unlikely to prevail.

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS

6.30: Calypso Bay did not handle Chester and that run is best forgotten. He should win this.

Best Of The Day: Perfect Stride – Alrasm – Monbretia each-way.

Possibly multiples incorporating some of the other mentions.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 29th May

 

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIP:

4.10: It may be worth monitoring betting patterns on Three Ducks who looks as if she could be potentially better than we have seen so far.

YARMOUTH HORSE RACING TIP:

4.20: Networker is overdue a win.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.10: Servoca must have a chance over this trip and based on what is looking like an excellent second to Bouvardia.

8.40: On better ground, Broad Cairn has a chance to break his duck after a pleasing run at Newbury.   Not a day for over-indulgence.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 28th May

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

6.05: Serious Impact has to be on the shortlist to win this back to ten furlongs. Cantering down the straight at York a fortnight ago, the mile-and-a-half seemed to find him out. He looks all set to open what is a fine card tonight. The draw has not been kind, so for those more cautious he may be a horse to back in running  in case he gets entangled early.

6.35: A very interesting juvenile event that will shed some light on forthcoming two-year-old events. I am not entirely convinced by Monsieur Chevalier but he keeps winning and I do not intend putting my money where my mouth is just yet. In Raine’s Cross, High Spice and Star Rover he faces the toughest collection of opponents put before him yet.

7.10: Patkai should have no trouble in consolidating his Sagaro win. As a bonus, the message from his stable is positive.

7.45: Possibly a race to watch. Word has it that Conduit will improve for the run. With his penalty and over a minimum trip, his task is a tough one. However, I have long thought this colt is underestimated. Pipedreamer may find ten furlongs at the top end of his stamina but is the obvious alternative. From a price point of view, Stotsfold will appreciate this return to ten furlongs having finished behind Paco Boy and Virtual here last time. He has two lengths to find on Pipedreamer on Eclipse running of last year.

8.20: Racketeer won in a no-fluke-fast-time last month. The form has not been endorsed but he could be anything.

8.50: In a tough finale, Wintercast is suggested as a possible. He ran a race full of promise last time behind Dubai Dynamo and beats Cadre on a line through Tartan Gigha. Worth chancing.

NEWCASTLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

Mut’ab (7.00)  and Maze (8.40) are two chancy suggestions on the card.   YARMOUTH: 3.40: Better can be expected from Espiritu on a kinder surface than he encountered last time at Newmarket.


Bush Telegraph

WEDNESDAY 27th May

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

4.10: Strike The Deal looks one of several likely winners for the Jeremy Noseda stable today. This is no easy contest though with the speedy Valery Borzov, Mutheeb and Diriculous in opposition. Strike The Deal has always appealed as a genuine type despite only having won twice. He ought to oblige but as far as a betting prospect is concerned…I am not sure.

515: Mount Hadley gets a chance to atone for a narrow defeat at Ascot. A one time Listed type at least, who won in useful style at Nad Al Sheba as a three-year-old, he came close to landing a gamble last time. A word of caution though: He had the precious strip of ground by the rail to help at Ascot and in going down to the fully exposed Trafalgar Bay, the run was still below his two/three-year-old form. At first glance he looks an automatic winner today, but in this business it does pay to look beyond the obvious. Like Strike the Deal he should win, but the excuse is already in place if he fails.

BEVERLEY RACING TIPS:

6.20: Everaard is a selection in this.

7.20: Angelina Ballerina was fancied to show improvement on her debut last time at Newmarket – which she duly did. All her best work was achieved on meeting the rising ground so this track should suit. She has the draw and looks widely underrated in the Racing Post forecast.

7.50: Waffle looked in need of the run last time and should strip a lot fitter tonight. Against lesser opposition, this looks a race with his name etched on it.


Bush Telegraph

TUESDAY 26th May

A poor day’s racing with nothing to suggest or to report.


Bush Telegraph

MONDAY 25th May

 

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

3.15: I can pass on a message for Perfect Silence. Probably win is the best I can add.

3.50: Reddy To Star is a carbon copy of the above comment.

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

3.10: Pinpoint is no more than a selection in a tricky event.

3.45: Timelord faces a more realistic task today and with experience of the track is the one to beat. He is fancied, his experience could be crucial but a useful debutant would beat him.

4.20: Hypnotist is another somewhat tentative suggestion. He looks handily weighted from an in-form yard.

 

CHEPSTOW RACING TIPS:

2.50: Palacefield’s defeat when odds-on last time has not turned out to be as bad as it looked. He ought to make amends today.

4.00: Bakhov is a very interesting contender here and merits a second look. His fifth to Border Patrol and South Easter hints at a well-handicapped horse from a mark of 64.

5.40: Dhushan created a favourable impression at Newbury when looking in need of the run. He has already beaten Gibb River (who looks a stayer) and this could be the stepping stone to something better.

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

3.55: I am prepared to give Checklow one more chance. He is the class act here and has been dropped since an excellent second at York. His attitude does not entirely convince but I get the feeling there is a big race in him and today could be the day. Military Power is expected to run well in a race full of exposed horses. Obviously the sheer volume of racing makes it a tricky day as Bank Holidays are invariably clogged with too many potential bets. Some of the above are the sort of horses to consider putting in multiples. I suggest the best of the selection are Bakhov, Checklow and Dhushan, being of the opinion you will not lose by backing the three of them.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 24th May

CURRAGH HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.05: Famous Name looks the value here after a warm up behind Curtain Call on this course three weeks’ ago. He did not run up to his best form that day but is expected to be on song today. His overall profile is hard to fault. Second in the French Derby to Vision d’Etat – form that gives him the narrow edge over Thewayyouare – he acts on the ground and is thoroughly consistent. Casual Conquest did not appear to stay at Newmarket so this drop in trip will help, but his attitude was not convincing when outgunned by Bronze Cannon.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.05: Jimmy Styles is fancied to gain revenge on Striking Spirit here, but although that would give him every chance, I am not sure it will be enough to make him a confident call.

4.40: Euston Square has the clear form advantage over is rivals and ought to win. However, this fast ground is not in his favour so at the price, although I am struggling to see what will beat him, I shall let him run.

Famous Name the suggestion on the day.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 23rd May

This may be a tricky day but there are a couple of opportunities to my mind. This is not a day to start backing the obvious:

CURRAGH HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.45: Soul City has a first rate chance of winning this if he can recover his two-year-old form. In the sales race run at this track, he beat Gan Amrhras, Dewhurst winner Intense Focus and Dreambeat. A reptition of that would see him nearly win today. Subsequent runs can be forgiven. His previous form in France on soft ground was of a similar level and he looks overpriced today. Slow to come to hand, he has been working with Paco Boy.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS

2.20: Father Time looks as if he is travelling in the right direction and is fancied to win here.

2.50: A very small wager is advised on Thunderous Mood at 33/1. Yes, it is ambitious but this trip will suit and he is better than his form suggests.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS

Finding winners on this sort of ground may turn out to be the hardest task of the day.

2.05: Leahurst is highly regarded and should go well.

3.40: This may not be as hard as it looks. I consider it to be between Set The Trend and Thief Of Time, both of whom look to be reasonably treated.

4.05: Alanbrooke may make amends for his narrow Newbury defeat if able to bounce back under these testing conditions after a slog last week. Tactic could represent his biggest danger.

BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 22nd May

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.55: Bullet Man, possibly not a horse that has progressed as one would have hoped, has his chance here and looks to have only Talayeb to beat.

4.05: Tryst is fancied to beat some exposed rivals here. He looks a smart type in the making; on pedigree a drop of rain would be welcome.

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.30: Be Invincible is fancied to follow up on a Windsor success.

8.00: Full Of Love carries similar stable confidence.

Frankly, I cannot see too much of the life-changing variety on today’s cards.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 21st May

 

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.10: Two powerful Newmarket stables threaten to dominate this. Secret Witness is considered better than his bare form; whereas Major Phil looked as if he had plenty in the tank when fifth at Lingfield last time.

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.15: For those brave enough, Timelord is supposed to be much better than his debut run. He will need to be – I am just the messenger in this instance.

4.00: The vibes as I write are that the taking Splashdown may improve for the outing. With Godolphin failing to light any fires, Copperbeach may be best overlooked. A turn up could be on the cards and it is just possible that Fallen In Love, a well-regarded filly, may get her day today. She should at least run well against opponents she may struggle to beat later in the season.

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.50: Above Limits ought to be too sharp in the opener although she will need to overcome a poor draw.

6.20: Lively Fling is taken to defy top weight in a moderate handicap. Second to Holberg, who ran well in the Glasgow Stakes last week, he should handle what promises to be fast ground.

6.50: Mirrored won like a horse with more to offer last time. However, I am quietly concerned about fast ground for him.

7.25: Being by Oasis Dream the ground would be of definite concern for The Fonz unless they have one of the predicted showers.

8.35: Leocorno has been let in a handicap by the side entrance from a mark of 78. Considered an Oaks candidate, being by Pivotal she will find firm ground against her but technically has the proverbial coal barrow in hand.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.05: Vhujon is a frustrating horse. I am asking for trouble, but he has as much in his favour tonight as he is going to get. Downhill tracks suit and he has the services of the Iceman in Richard Hughes.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 20th May

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.15: Advisor won tidily at Windsor and may be ahead of his rivals today, several of whom are tricky to assess. This is not an easy race to solve but Advisor should be in the three at least.

2.50: La Pantera sets a fair but beatable standard here so it is a case of watching the market.

3.25: Free Agent looks an unlikely winner to me. He is not a certain stayer and has a 3lbs penalty to overcome. This may not be a vintage renewal but Sight Unseen, Chock A Block and Alwaary present serious opposition.

4.00: Continuing a somewhat negative frame, I feel it worth pointing out that Kayf Aramis does not have a record of stringing wins in quick succession together. Despite a facile win last week – over further and on more testing ground – he makes little appeal faced with different conditions today. 5.10: The defeat of Fantasy Land at Thirsk looked poor at the time, but the winner that day, Ishe Mac, went on to run respectably in a York handicap last week and she could represent value. It is worth recalling odds-on Palacefield was only just in front of her at Thirsk.

Looks like being quiet but I may risk a small wager on Fantasy Land.


BUSH TELEGRPH

TUESDAY 19th May

 

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

4.00: Polly’s Mark is presented with a solid opportunity against her own sex in this handicap from a mark of 80. A third to the useful Three Moons followed by a second to the progressive Aqwaal gives her the best credentials and she should win.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

6.10: State Fair’s form looks better than that achieved by Crown. His fifth in a Newbury maiden no longer looks quite as strong as it did but the race has thrown up winners. He got loose beforehand so it is reasonable to expect some improvement.

7.40: Ladbrokes have taken a chance by putting Folio in their betting at 16/1. He is weighted to win but at the age of nine, cannot be a confident call. However, Ladbrokes have erred with the price – just as I did when suggesting Folio last time on ground that was too firm. Everything is in place today for a decent run from a mark of 70 – which would be the lowest he has won from. Annabelle’s Charm and Dark Prospect are possible improvers but Folio is worth a small each-way punt.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 18th May

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BATH:

2.00: Radiohead ought to win; helped by recent rain as he looked ill-at-ease on the firm at Newmarket in what was a promising debut. As far as betting is concerned he is best left alone.

4.00: Down amongst the dead men as far as ratings are concerned, Rock Anthem is the first of a couple of chancy propositions on the day.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WOLVERHAMPTON:

8.20: Tourist has the ability to win this from a mark of 79. A win is overdue and he joins Royal Anthem as no more than a hopeful selection.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WINDSOR:

6.10: White Daffodil looks to have a favourite’s chance.

7.40: Cosimo appeals as the sort his trainer will do well with. His latest fifth to Serious Impact is probably better than it reads.

8.10: So we come to Candy Ride, a filly that looked a surefire winner on debut at Newbury. The maiden she finished fifth in has failed to produce a subsequent winner but this filly was a massive eye-catcher. Looking in need of the run but finishing strongly nevertheless, she is taken to defy current trends and beat Strawberrydaiquiri who ran well behind Cartoon over this track a month ago.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday 17th May

 

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LONGCHAMP

2.20: Coastal Path should get back on the winning trail today. Unbeaten before his venture to Royal Ascot last year when he failed to cope with Yeats and the trip of two-and-a-half miles – a trip very few horses actually stay – he has suffered three defeats since. It appears the Gold Cup took the edge of the horse for the remainder of last year, but he returned this season with a promising second. Now racing over a trip he has won over, this looks an ideal opportunity for this son of Halling. He is not short of speed and was winning like a possible Arc contender this time last year. There is a big stamina doubt about Mores Wells; an even bigger one hanging over Emporio. This looks Coastal Path’s race.

3.20: The Group 1 Prix D’ Ispahan features the return of Goldikova. Unlike the UK fixture list, the French program is not littered with numerous opportunities for horses to race themselves fit on the racecourse. That is part of its appeal. For that reason we should expect the Breeders’ Cup winner to strip fit for what is a prestigious event. She dominates the line up. After an excellent second in the Prix Ganay to impressive Vision D’Etat, Loup Bretton may represent an each-way alternative. He is sure to run well.   There is nothing on the domestic front.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY May 16th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWBURY

2.05: Tastahil has his ground and based on a third in the John Porter the best chance of winning. There is a positive message for him.

2.40: Paco Boy is one of the best horses you will ever see. His attitude, the way he races, his record, all mean that those opposing him are taking on a proper racehorse for no obvious reason. From a betting point of view he is short enough and this looks a strong Lockinge. There are words for Aqlaam, Pressing and Twice Over so Paco Boy will have to be at his best to win. I suggest this is a race to watch.

3.10: Aqwaal won nicely last time and is fancied to win again. His stable consider him to be ahead of the handicapper.

3.45: Exclamation turns out again after two tough races so those backing him are taking a chance that he can sustain his form. Main Aim has his ground today and could be a interesting sprinting prospect for the months ahead.

4.20: I can pass on a word for Glen Molly in what looks like a desperately difficult handicap.

4.55: Euston Square ought to appreciate the cut in the ground and gets his best chance to date.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET

1.50: Merdaam ran well in a hot Newbury maiden won by Bridge Of Gold from Clockmaker. He faces nothing of that calibre today and is taken to get the better of the disappointing Invisible Man.

2.20: Riggins is expected to win. The price is swingeing however.

Best of the day: Tastahil – Euston Square and Merdaam.

 


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY May 15th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

2.10: Warringah may be favourite here but is still worth consideration. Recent homework suggests he is up to winning this from a mark of 93. Unfortunately the bookmakers’ antennae has picked this up, hence the price but it is still likely it will be taken. At the time of writing there are nineteen opponents but this is a race long on numbers and short on quality. Walking Talking and the unlucky King Charles [not won for eighteen months] are dangers of sorts but a reproduction of homework means Warringah should be too good. Any rain is seen as a bonus.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET:

3.35: Silaah could be the answer to this handicap.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWBURY:

1.50: Kurtanella showed considerable promise at Salisbury. Overnight rain should help and with that experience behind her it take a smart newcomer to lower her colours.

2.20: The rain will suit Border Patrol who looked a smart colt when beating subsequent Chester winner South Easter over this course last time. He looks progressive and despite the dismal form of his stable is seen as the most likely winner at the expense of Awinnersgame.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY May 14th 2009

 

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

2.40: Crowded House puts his Derby credentials on the line here, but faces a strong field. His reputation is largely founded on a second to Donativum when Nasri was a close third. he then beat Jukebox Jury in the Group 1 Racing Post. That form needs improving upon if he is to be taken as a serious candidate for Epsom. In the progressive Redwood, Neeham and possibly Kite Wood, he faces horses on the upgrade and makes absolutely no appeal at his price.

3.10: Yamal, fit from a winter campaign in Dubai is a deserving favourite here and looks the one to beat against some exposed opponents. A case can be constructed at the weights for Moynahan, but he has disappointed before and it is a case of sucking it and seeing.

3.45: Providing she is suffering no ill-effects after Chester last week, then unlucky loser City Dancer gets her chance to set the record straight.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT SALISBURY:

1.50: Entreat is fancied here. I am concerned about the ground and trip for her however, so she will not be carrying my money much as I respect the stable and the message. Polly’s Mark looks a cast iron each-way bet.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET:

6.50: A drop of rain is required for Ottoman Empire, who is reported to have thrived since finishing second to Native Ruler at Pontefract.

7.25: Dona Alba only has to run up to Epsom form when third to Duncan to win this handicap from the same mark.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY May 13th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

A cracking card to herald the return of action from this track.

1.40: With no rain to ease the ground, Slam comes into the equation. Stone Of Scone is well thought of and would have been strongly fancied on easier ground.  Confidence in Stone Of Scone – considered a Group horse in the making – is slightly tempered on what threatens to be firm ground.

2.10: Much as I respect Photographic, by Oasis Dream, she is another that will need some ease underfoot. She looked as if she hated the surface at Newmarket despite winning and running on similar ground may not be the wisest course of action. I was taken by the Newbury run of Brief Encounter who will have no problems with fast ground. Only two lengths behind Chester winner, Fareer that day, he comes here with a solid each-way chance.

2.40: Sariska looks every inch an Oaks filly. She had no run at Newbury when behind Super Sleuth and looks the one to beat.

3.10: Strike The Deal has a big chance reverting to six furlongs and could spring a surprise.

4.20: Paradise Dream looks the best of the day. He created a favourable impression on debut, looking as if the run would put an edge on him. A scopey son of Kylaachy, he can take advantage of the weight concession from King Of Axum and prove better than Ventura Cove who did run with promise at Musselburgh but faces stiffer opposition today.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BATH:

At BATH, Toga Tiger should win the 6.40 and Networker seems to have a chance to break a long losing run in the 8.10.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY May 12th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WARWICK:

3.50: Mirrored was impressive at Kempton last time despite looking in need of the run. Raised 6lbs, he faces slightly better opposition but looks the sort to be up to the task.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BEVERLEY:

4.00: High Office is taken to get the best of a moderate contest after a satisfactory reappearance behind Warpedsenseofhumour at Redcar.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LINGFIELD:

6.50: The Galloping Shoe completes an uninspired treble of selections on the day.

No prizes for your truly, but the week starts in earnest tomorrow…


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Monday May 11th

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YARMOUTH:

3.00: Duchess Of Doom looks a possible, if somewhat obvious selection.

4.30: Possibly stupidly, I am prepared to accord one last chance to Mut’ab in the hope six furlongs will bring about a transformation in fortune.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WOLVERHAMPTON:

2.40: Six Wives really ought to be too good for claiming opposition and should collect.

4.10: Chadwell Spring is worth a second look. Despite a poor draw she has the assistance of Chris Catlin and she did not get the run of the race last time.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WINDSOR:

7.20: Fast ground would be a concern for Lake Kamalka. It is possible Parc Des Princes, who seems to act on firm, may make the weight variance tell.

Hands up, I am trying to construct cases for horses today. This has the look of a busy week so it could be a case of keeping the powder relatively dry. Playing for small stakes is all today is worth.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday May 10th

This may not be a strong day for betting but it should prove informative.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LEAPARDSTOWN:

Firstly, at Leopardstown we have the Derrinstown Derby Trial. Fame And Glory and Mourayan set a strong standard and should have the race to themselves. If, as I expect, Fame And Glory successfully concedes 3lbs to his rival, he will look like a serious danger to all at Epsom in what is shaping up as a hot Derby.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LONGCHAMP:

It is Guineas day at Longchamp. Having already beaten Westphalia, Silver Frost looks the best French contender in the colts’ event. There may be little between them today but the French-trained colt is given narrow preference. Vocalised is in great heart this year and looks on an upward curve. He does have to improve again to win this but that is not out of the question. There has to be a question mark over Naaqoos, although writing him off completely is premature.

Shaweel’s chance looks negligible. The Dewhurst form has already taken a bashing on several levels and he has a mountain to climb against Vocalised. For current English odds of 8/1 – read 28/1!  Sharpen your knives in the unlikely event I am wrong!

Word is that Fantasia will win the 1,000 Guineas. She is priced accordingly but those closest to her describe her as a superstar. This could turn out to be a better Classic than Newmarket’s equivalent and whilst not looking to oppose Fantasia, I do feel the 25/1 about Oh Goodness Me is generous. Second to Mourayan last year and having beaten the older Mad About You this, she may find Fantasia too good but could reward small each-way support.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Saturday 9th May

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT ASCOT:

1.05: An early enough start: Is it winter already? Seriously, Duncan is strongly fancied and expected to successfully make this transition from handicap company. Dangers look thin on the ground. With the exception of Steele Tango he has little to beat and looks like he should get us off to a flying start.

1.40: I can pass on a word for Superverdi, although my own inclination was for Good Again. Not a race for me.

2.15: Maze has a squeak, Evens And Odds may be good enough to defy a penalty rather than reassessment. They would be my two against the field.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NOTTINGHAM:

2.55:Bouvardia will be suited by this trip of six and should be hard to beat. She is fancied.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT HAYDOCK:

3.05: I cannot back this up with a message but thought City Style would win.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LINGFIELD:

2.10: Laudatory is not weighted to confirm with Seek N’ Destroy but looks the sort to improve. I am passing on the two trials. They should be informative but do not present cast iron betting opportunities.

3.45: Chasing Stars ought to have an each-way chance in what looks a weak Group 3.

4.20: Highland Glen is fancied to get off the mark in this.   Best messages of the day: Duncan, Highland Glen and Bouvardia.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 8th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

2.15: Drumbeat is the one to aim at here, but by and large those he faces bring maiden form to the table. The one most open to improvement is Devotion To Duty. He needed his run at Newmarket when fourth to Sopranist and Native Ruler and a big run is expected.

2.45: Now, Frozen Fire is the obvious selection, but does not appeal as a betting proposition on three counts. Firstly, he looks typical of some Montjeus in that he is not straightforward. The ground may not be suitable (good second at York on good to firm but in general seems best with give), lastly the impression after the St Leger was that he did not stay. Buccellati is the alternative on his latest run at Sandown but I am inclined to take a small chance with Scintillo. Forget his latest run at Newbury on soft ground. This track will suit, he has been trained with this race in mind and will bounce off the ground. A line through Bronze Canyon and Casual Conquest – albeit tenuous but then what isn’t – gives him a much bigger chance than his current odds suggest.

3.15: After a couple of ‘chancy’ suggestions, City Dancer looks solid. Back against her own age group after a fine run at Musselburgh against older horses, she has the draw and a big chance.

Elsewhere the racing makes little appeal. A few suggestions are

  • Stargaze 2.40 Lingfield
  • Rock Of Love 6.10 Hamilton
  • Barynya 4.10 Nottingham (will be no price)
  • Sunrise Safari 6.55 Ripon.

 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

THURSDAY 7th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

2.15: Doctor Fremantle – an all-important course winner – is expected to kick-start his four-year-old career with a win in this. By all accounts he is in good form at home.

2.45: Masterofthehorse should be too good here. He faces two very promising types in Debussy and Saptapadi (expected to reverse Sandown form with Above Average).

3.15: Fareer looked to have done well from two to three when I saw him at Newbury. He should be in the firing line in this.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

6.30: Folio is capable of winning or going close here. A decent performer at this level, he is on a winning mark despite his advancing years. He has little to fear from long-standing maiden Special Reserve, so the right race seems to have been found.

7.35: Cawdor should improve for his first run over a sharp extended five at Bath. A big, well-thought of horse, this extra yardage should suit and if he is the horse his stable claim him to be, he is not extended from a mark of 75.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

WEDNESDAY 6th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

1.45: Each-way punters beware as this field is already down to eight with the possibility of Star Rover being taken out of if the rain stays away, reducing the numbers to seven. Kings Of Leo may be the value here. She won comfortably on Monday at Warwick and should be suited by this track. A line through Six Wives does give Mijas Playa the edge but it is tenuous and one not reflected by the variance in the betting.

3.15: With a better draw I would have been tempted to take a chance with An Tadh who looks reasonably treated, but he will need a lot of luck from eleven. Blitzer, Strike The Band has the plum draw and could return to top form here from a slipping mark.

4.00: Kings Destiny shapes like a horse that will stay, but there has to be a doubt on breeding. The race he won at Leicester is working out particularly well and he remains on a handy mark. Jedi may not have ideal ground and, being by Pivotal is another for whom there must be a stamina doubt. No such doubts exist for Headline Act who is worse off with Kings Destiny having already been beaten by him at Leicester. One of the three mentioned ought to win, but it is not the easy race to sort out that it looks.

4.35: Several nice types line up here. Asateer has solid maiden form. Stable-companion Devotion To Duty will improve on his fourth at Newmarket as he looked in need of it that day. He has two lengths to find on Calypso Bay – another sure to come on – but, although not the kiss of death it is in a handicap, his widest of all draw is no help. Add the presence of the Irish candidate Changingtheguard and this looks another event where the candidates are obvious but it is hard to sort them in order. Harbinger could be the one to oppose. His form is shaky and the draw threatens to make life difficult.

Perhaps a day to play permed multiple bets, although at this stage I am of the opinion that Kings Of Leo represents a reasonable value bet on a course she looks capable of handling.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY 5th May

After a busy few days,we get the chance to take a break today. The cards look poor and I intend recharging the batteries with a day away from racing…


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

MONDAY 4th May

Overkill is the word that springs to mind. With this amount of racing there is always the danger that we fail to do the requisite amount of work – reverting to the ‘that will win’ syndrome. So just a quick resume of horses to have caught my eye.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

3.25: Course and distance winner Trans Siberian has his ground this time and ought to go close.

3.55: Likely favourite Desert Creek may mean Wannabe King could be value. On only his third start, he finished an excellent second to Makaahem and is not overburdened with a rating of 86.

4.25: Zouk created a favourable impression on debut, looking like a surefire future winner. He should beat paper favourite Formula and looks the type to improve.

KEMPTON HORSERACING TIPS:

2.00: By all accounts this is a hot little maiden with messages circulating for Paradise Dream, Knightfire and Radio City.

3.30: Invisible Man – an expensive failure at Newmarket – is again expected to win. He is drawn worst of all and I would prefer to see him realise his potential before getting involved.

4.00: Big Bay, a promising third to Militarist, takes a drop in grade here and should win.

4.30: Highly thought of, Forgotten Voice, should be good enough from a mark of 90.

WARWICK HORSERACING TIPS:

4.10: Badiat Alzaman is well thought of. She bumped into one last time and ought to justify her reputation this afternoon.

BEVERLEY HORSERACING TIPS:

1.50: Petrocelli showed enough on debut to win a small race. Providing nothing is lurking, he should win.

No prizes for original thought I know, but that is the drawback when faced with so much racing.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

   SUNDAY 3rd May

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS:

2.00: This is a handicap full of horses weighted up to their best so there are no blots on the landscape. However, Dansili Dancer, despite having to defy a mark that is higher than he has won from, has an all-important advantage over most of his rivals. He relishes fast ground. Unless rain falls in unexpected proportions, that may offset the few pounds he needs to find to win. After a good run back when behind the improving Hatton Flight, he is now 8lbs better off for a length. That should be enough to beat the favourite and gives him a serious chance of winning.

3.15: Speculation over Rainbow View seems pointless. She did not look an obvious type to train on at the backend of last year, but whatever her fate later in the season it seems all stops have been pulled out to try and secure this Classic. She deserves it and I hope she wins.

3.50: Exclamation ran a good comeback race when fourth to Tax Free and Equiano in the Abernant and is open to improvement as that was his first run since August 2008. I am of the opinion this is worth backing at the morning price.He looks the one to beat in a race that may not be as hard as the numbers suggest. He is given clear preference over Evens And Odds and Carleton, who shaped with considerable promise at Windsor on Monday on unsuitable ground but may be flying too high in this.

4.25: Radiohead is the best message in this, with possibly Footstepsofspring the major danger.

SALISBURY HORSERACINGTIPS:

1.45: Hajoum should get off the mark in the maiden


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   SATURDAY 2nd May

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

3.10: Confidence in Delegator is well documented. Those closest to the Stoute stable do not seem to be hailing the chance of Evasive. Delegator aside, the home-team may struggle against a strong Irish contingent. Gan Amhras is the word horse from a stable that won last year’s Dewhurst and know what they are doing. The extremely likeable Rip Van Winkle is short enough and may not be at his peak today. I am inclined to row in with the message for Gan Amhras and expect Sea The Stars to go well.

4.55: Spring To Fame is given a narrow preference over Sopranist.

GOODWOOD HORSERACING TIPS

5.15: Farncombe will provide a clue as to the worth of the Bridget Maiden Fillies’ Stakes at Newbury, in which she was beaten five lengths by Danehill’s Pearl. It looked a good event at the time

THIRSK HORSERACING TIPS

1.55: Here Now And Why may struggle to concede weight here. He is short enough and his form was let down at Musselburgh yesterday.

3.05: Hustle has a chance to atone for a luckless run at Folkestone.

3.40: Although short, Palacefield should win and carries stable confidence.

DONCASTER HORSERACING TIPS

6.10: Lees Anthem does not look the sort of horse to take a short price about. He ran out last time and was not going to win in my view anyway.

7.15: Chartist will be of more interest next week at Chester where he holds an engagement over five furlogns.

7.50: There is confidence behind Exceptional Art here on his first run back after the Prix Morny.


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   FRIDAY 1st May

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.40: With tips for Euston Square, Tryst and Makaam, at this stage this looks like a race to watch.

3.55: It is hard to tip Titan Triumph with confidence and this run may put him spot on for Chester – a track that will suit. He is best going left-handed and it would be no surprise to see him run well here even so.

5.05: With no great word for Montbretia at this stage, Beauchamp Viceroy could spring a surprise. He shaped well last time, has the beating of the dodgy Formation on that running, and makes each-way appeal.

5.35: Sehoy has to be marked up for his win last time as he came round the bend via Gatwick. Scene Two looks the biggest potential threat.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

4.05: Hamish McGonagall has the form claims but his fitness has to be taken on trust. A fit Cheveton looks sure to run well although he faces an all-time high mark.

April Archive Free Racing tips from spy

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APRIL


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THURSDAY 30th April

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Desert Auction is given the vote here over Tom Folan (a filly despite the name). The selection has the plum draw and his third last time behind Soccer, whilst not earth-shattering form, represents a higher level to my mind than that achieved by Tom Folan.

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

2.30: Surely Out The Ring has the form to win a seller. Behind Archers Road and Star Rover he is unlikely to run into anything of that calibre here.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

6.00: Mutheeb may spring a surprise in this. With the ground likely to be against Mia’s Boy and Cloudy Start, and Charm School shaping as if he wants further, well-thought of Mutheeb has a clear-cut chance to  gain some black type.


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WEDNESDAY 29th April

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

2.10: There is no doubting that Red Jazz was impressive at Windsor and a rough form line involving Iver Bridge Lad suggests he is on a par with Monsieur Chevalier. But he faces two serious adversaries in Walkingonthemoon and Planet Red so the forecast 11/8 looks skinny. A hard race to call and one that could go any one of three ways.

2.45: Rose Diamond may come into her own when racing over further but her form is the best on offer.

PONTEFRACT RACING TIPS:

2.20: Lofthouse shaped with promise behind Walkingonthemoon at Newbury. Those to have reappeared from that event have all run well and Lofthouse should be on the premises here. On a day that presents several opportunities to each-way thieves, he looks a prime contender for the each-way doubles and trebles.

2.55: Cherish The Moment may not beat Native Ruler but looks nailed on to place after an unlucky run last time. Native Ruler should win but did not entirely convince this onlooker at Newmarket.

4.05: Faldal is expected to win this handicap for fillies. Difficult to asses and a three-year-old against older horses, she is another that should place at least.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Invincible Isle, second in a Folkestone maiden that is working out surprisingly well, is another likely to place at worst.

8.20: Crown Choice should win or finish second. You could argue Wigram’s Turn has the better form, but he has only won one auction event at Redcar to his name so the progressive Crown Choice makes more appeal.

8.50: Diriculous has a record of running well fresh and could be good enough.

PUNCHESTOWN RACING TIPS:

6.05: The trip is the nub here. It may be too far for Scotsirish and possibly Schindlers Hunt, whilst Imperial Commander is another yet to prove he stays this far. On testing ground, it should suit Notre Pere who is taken to win.


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TUESDAY 28th April

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

4.50: Tikka Masala ought to open her account for a stable in form. A strong-finishing second to Respite at Kempton last time, she gave every impression that the step up in trip – from five to seven – was ideal. Respite had finished second to Fantasia as a juvenile and Tikka Masala is rated a lowly 68 in this handicap. Such lines of form can, and do, send punters skint. Respite would be unlikely to get within twenty lengths of Fantasia now. However, even allowing for a wide margin of error, Tikka Masala looks well-treated.

BATH RACING TIPS:

2.10: There is a whisper for Timelord in this. He may be worth a small investment at a big price.

2.45: Aypeeyes should appreciate this return to the Flat and a drop in grade.

3.20: Coiled Spring looked a shade unlucky at Newmarket in October when still running a race full of promise. Narrowly beaten when squeezed for room, he looks the sort to make up into a decent handicapper this season. He ought to be capable of taking this.

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

7.05: Stone Of Scone created a good impression last year. A big son of Pivotal, a mark of 90 puts him in this handicap with a fine chance and he should be hard to beat on the way to better objectives.

PUNCHESTOWN RACING TIPS:

4.20: Hurricane Fly gets his chance to stake a Champion Hurdle claim in the Grade 1. His form is rock solid and although no betting proposition it will be interesting to gauge whether the form book is an accurate reflection of his ability.

Master Minded and Cooldine complete a hat trick of stars on the first day of this meeting.

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MONDAY 27th April

It is a fairly low-key start to a busy week, culminating with the first two Classics at the weekend.

NEWCASTLE RACING TIPS:

4.20: This could be a tough handicap to solve. The presence of Valery Borzov and Celtic Sultan worries me. On current form it seems to rest between Thebes and Barney McGrew, both seemingly having the same chance on a line through Advanced. Preference is for the in-form Thebes, whereas Barney McGrew is inching up the ratings without winning.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

5.25: Azif [four-and-a-half lengths behind Its Alright] and Glen Lass [six lengths in arrears of Walkingonthemoon] represent the best form on offer. However low draws may make it tough. Paper favourite, Diamond Laura, was behind Monsieur Chevalier (may have improved since) at Folkestone. There are several likely newcomers in the line-up, so an interesting curtain-raiser.

6.25: This appears to be between Red Merlin and Relative Strength.

7.25: Alhaque is given narrow preference over Putra One. However, keep an eye on Pachakutek, whose latest run on the soft at Newbury can be ignored. Judged on a promising debut at Newmarket, this good-looking son of Giant’s Causeway is no 20/1 chance.

7.55: Advisor faces a couple of potentially well handicapped opponents here. Using Thousand Miles as a yardstick, he doesn’t appear to have made giant strides from two to three and may struggle to carry top weight against several lurkers. At present not a day to get embroiled in.


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SUNDAY 26th April

There is not too much to quicken the pulse today, although it would be nice to see Yeats win and the racing at Longchamp should be informative. Vision D’Etat is not original but should win the Prix Ganay. Although just behind The Bogberry early in the month now they clash in a Group 1, he is 7lbs better off for a head and should easily reverse placings. This trip may also be his optimum.

At Brighton, in the 2.10 the run of Little Perisher – nine lengths behind Royal Ascot aspirant Walkingonthemoon at Newbury – may shed some light on the worth of what looked like a good juvenile event.


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SATURDAY 25th April

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

2.05: Rules are made to be broken! Yesterday was to have been my last venture into jump racing before September. Now, just twenty-four hours later, I cannot resist giving it one more spin as I feel I have an angle in this. Quite simply, look at the record of Seven Is My Number. Notice anything? Keep looking…Let me help you. He runs all his best races right-handed. Two wins at Ascot, one at Taunton and he ran his best race at Sandown in the Imperial Cup. Flops have come at Cheltenham, Newbury and Aintree. I may be constructing a flimsy case, but this horse has definite ability and a repeat of his Imperial Cup run would be good enough here to beat four-year-old Tasheba on these weight terms. Seven Is My Number is the sort of horse to be shunned by punters in view of his record, but I feel he is worth another chance to recover the Imperial Cup gamble money.

4.15: Pipedreamer is preferred to Tartan Bearer here. He has his trip and ground and his stable are flying. We are likely to see the best of the big Tartan Bearer later in the season.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

1.55: Vhujon’s trainer will be sending me a bill before too long – I feel I own him he has cost me that much! It is hard to be confident; he has had plenty of chances which he continues to sabotage, but once again he should be there or thereabouts..

 

4.45: Tiger Flash ran with distinct promise at Yarmouth in a decent maiden where there were plenty of messages. He should get off the mark here.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

7.40: It appears that a penalty kick has been found for Invisible Man; however he failed to come up to expectations in a big way last time, making me inclined to pass him over until he has proved himself. This is a big step down from a Newmarket maiden at the Craven meeting which makes you wonder.


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FRIDAY 24th April

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

1.25: Thief Of Time was second in a Leicester handicap won by Kings Destiny that had a solid look about it and has already produced a winner in Headline Act – at Kempton this week. Thief Of Time finished second over a mile-and-a-quarter at Leicester and now drops in distance to a mile. On breeding that would seem to suit, although he ran as if the trip was not a problem last time. However, his second to Capebility (good run at Newmarket since) was over a mile. On the face of it he is an unnecessary 2lbs out of the handicap but it is entirely possible the handicapper may have another look at that Leicester handicap after the success of Headline Act. Peter Chapple-Hyam is taking a chance by running here on two counts. I am assuming he has it right.

2.00: This is just an observation: Above Average is overpriced. I know the Doncaster form has not worked out, but he is said to be better than that run suggests (developed into a sprint) and on his fifth to Redwood as a juvenile, he may run better than a 20/1 chance.

4.20: Antinori ran a decent race against well-regarded Set The Trend last week when he was possibly an unlucky loser. Fit from that experience, he may make it count today but the opposition he faces looks sitiffer.

So a tricky card as I write.

In a complete departure from my normal way of working, Astrador – a jumper in April – takes the eye at Perth in the 2.45. This return to two miles will suit and I thought he could win. No doubt many of you out there will be better placed to express an opinion. This is absolutely the last time I shall refer to jumping until September at the earliest!


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THURSDAY 23rd April

It is not my intention to tip or mention horses for the sake of it. Today’s card are unappealing and I suggest they provide an opportunity for a day’s break from equine matters…


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WEDNESDAY 22nd April

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

3.05: Dream Desert does look reasonably treated in the Great Metropolitan. We may be subjected to a shock result, but the field seems to comprise mainly of runners that can be overlooked. Hatton Flight travels well on fast ground and hails from a stable in form, but the rest are hard to fancy.

3.40: Debussy could not have been more impressive in victory at Lingfield in March. This opposition is stiffer but he could be anything. Only Mustaqer is feared. Ouster will probably improve for the run. Popmurphy’s form is dubious and Midday – a filly against colts – a doubtful stayer.

4.15: In contrast to the earlier handicap mentioned, the City And Surburban looks a case of perm any one from ten. Several are closely matched and that allied to the size of the field points to a result that is very hard to call.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Mirrored could be well handicapped here. His stable are gradually hitting stride and he looks an ideal prospect for this first venture into a handicap.


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TUESDAY 21st April

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

3.20: Headline Act should win this. Fourth in a race that had a good look about it at Leicester won by Kings Destiny, he was not helped by being locked away on the inside at a crucial moment. He races from the same mark today and should be too good for this opposition, particularly as he is stepped up in trip – one more tick in the right box.

4.20: Checklow has his chance here. Flying home over course and distance last time, the winner had gone by the time he found his stride. Saturday’s Spring Cup winner, Extraterrestrial was third so the form is rock solid. By Street Cry, this is probably Checklow’s surface and it will be a big disappointment to all concerned if he fails to progress.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

4.40: Unlucky at Folkestone last time, Bubses Boy races from the same mark and will be suited by this step up in trip. Normally, it is advisable to ignore horses without form at Southwell but Michael Bell is a trainer that rarely gets it wrong when switching to Fibresand. Bubses Boy will know more today and is taken to win and complete a treble incorporating the top two.

BATH RACING TIPS:

5.50: Lennie Briscoe is a tentative selection on the basis he is better than his last run. He was noted as a closer in a maiden that has already thrown up a winner.

6.20: Hopefully by now we will be flying. Melt is not one to try and get out of trouble on but she was unlucky last time and this extra furlong will suit.


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MONDAY 20th April

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.50: Happy Forever looks the safest option.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

6.50: There are several unknowns here. Although not showing much in her only race as a two-year-old, Cartoon appealed as the type to do much better in her second season. But at this stage she can only be considered as one not to be left out of calculations.

7.20: Libel Law looks as if he only needs to run up to his sole outing from last year to beat Souter Point. A fourth to Emirates Roadshow and Jesse James seems a better standard of form than that achieved by Souter Point a fortnight ago.

7.50: Abulmarith – sixth to Bin End in his maiden this year and another to run in the Newmarket maiden won by Emirates Roadshow –  appears to be reasonably treated on this his first run in a handicap from a rating of 71. His stable are hitting form and he appears to hold a solid chance.


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SUNDAY 19th April

A quiet day in this quarter; although the Ballysax at Leopardstown should be informative. Clearly Mourayan has the form claims in view of his form with the smart Sea The Stars. A win by Fame And Glory would provide a big result for Ballydoyle in view of his penalty. John Murtagh is unlikely to have called it wrongly, but I can’t help but think Hail Caesar is capable of improving on his recent run behind Recharge and the Dewhurst winner, Intense Focus, particularly over this extra yardage. Of course Murtagh partnered Hail Caesar that day, which is a further negative now he has switched to Fame And Glory.

This is a funny game and from time to time obstinacy will prevail. I could not help but be taken by Hail Caesar’s run over this course last month and I may pay for the privilege of looking a fool later on. I expect him to run well and consider him a value alternative, certainly to Fame And Glory, although the line up looks strong.

So the suggestion is an each-way bet on Hail Caesar 3.55 Leopardstown.


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SATURDAY 18th April

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

 More rain overnight and the possibility of it drying out this afternoon may increase the complexity of the card.

2.05: One horse that will relish the ground is Royal And Regal who is reported to be in fine shape. A winner of this race last year under similar conditions, it seems fair to say he disappointed on a couple of occasions thereafter. A gelding operation during the close season means he is in fine form just now, and whatever he goes on to achieve later in the year today is the day to catch him. With so much in his favour he looks the day’s best prospect. With two Classic trails, this should be an informative day. The Jim Bolger pair, Maoineach and Vocalised line up in the Fred Darling and Greenham with obvious chances. With the highly promising Sariska to beat in the Fred Darling, the fillies event could be the harder of the two races to call. The colts’ trial may prove easier to solve. With a run behind him today, Vocalised faces main rivals that, at least according to the vibes, may not be over-fancied. The progressive Vocalised may be the softer option in the two events.

AYR RACING TIPS:

2.50: The lightly weighted Ski Sunday may be the answer to this after two good runs at Cheltenham and Aintree. Obviously he carries a light weight because of the weight-for-age scale, but he looks in fine form and did chase Walkon home last time, even though that run may flatter him to a degree.

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

5.00: Gillburg made a good impression first time and ought to win with that experience behind him.


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FRIDAY 17th April

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

1.35: Planet Red is subject to positive reports for this. An early enough foal, he will have to cope with overnight rain that will have made the track testing. His sire has been responsible for winners at Southwell so, whilst that is no guarantee he will cope with today’s conditions, it provides some encouragement. No good thing in a race full of unknown quantities but he has shown enough to run a race.

2.10: This is a tough handicap but the decision by Richard Hills to ride Fareer rather than Makaamen is understandable. Although Makaamen was a promising second to Evasive as a juvenile, the horse he beat last time [George Thisby] was well beaten earlier this week and represents shaky form. Probably too tough to call with Cloudy Start and a seemingly improved Daddy’s Gift (should relish the ground) amongst serious opposition.

2.40: Fullandby has his conditions and seems feasibly weighted against Chief Editor and Cheveton who are seen as the main dangers. Sonny Red is worth watching as he has slipped down the weights and is the sort to land a gamble in the near future.

3.15: Providing the ground is not too soft, Four Winds should stake his claim for a possible Derby tilt here. Your Old Pal skated away with his maiden over this course as a juvenile but by all accounts does little at home so is difficult to assess.

4.25: Ruler Of All did not find the race unfolding in his favour last time at Newcastle. A big horse that will have benefited from that run, he is fancied to go one better today.


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THURSDAY APRIL 16th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.50: My sources suggest Militarist is the best of the three Gosden representatives.

2.25: Crown may have the experience, but the race she finished fifth in at Bath was poor, proved by the fact the filly that finished half-a-length behind her was beaten in seller at Warwick on Monday. Surely either Habaayib or Silver Symphony are more interesting prospects.

3.00: Bookmakers have got this about right. Quirky Equiano is the form pick and comes from a stable in terrific form. Edge Closer and Knot In Wood look the biggest dangers.

3.35: Delegator is fully expected to win but his price reflects what is common knowledge.

4.10: Twice Over is another that should oblige in this company. However, after yesterday’s eclipse of several short-priced message horses, I shall let him run. In the event of rain, Virtual will test him.

5.20: In a tough handicap, Legislate should go well having shown battling qualities when beating the strongly fancied Jesse James last time.

RIPON RACING TIPS:

2.00: Here And Now had his form franked by the win of Jack My Boy yesterday. He ought to win but a market check for the well bred and early foal Saucy Girl is advised. She comes from a stable that has won this race for the last two years.

3.45: I am of the opinion that Mutamaashi may beat Hunterview – a Southwell winner and a dead-heater on soft at Beverley. This ground may make a difference to Hunterview who may have been flattered by a wide margin win last time as Statute Book appeared to run below par. Mutamaashi was impressive on debut and the horse he beat is a dual winner since.

4.20: El Loco Uno is expected to run well here.

4.55: Although this is a tough sprint – tougher than the race he was beaten in last time – Vhujon got no run at Folkestone, is on a winnable mark, has a favourable draw and looks overpriced.


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WEDNESDAY APRIL 15th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

1.50: Native Ruler, one of the worse kept secrets in Newmarket, is fully expected to justify the hype today.

3.00: Liberation is undeniably the form horse for this although there are a couple of minor doubts for those contemplating taking the price. The trip is a slight imponderable, and of course he has to adjust to the transition from Dubai. Rockhampton takes a leap up in grade but did impress last time at Leopardstown.

4.10: Fantasia ought to win this but the seven furlong trip must surely be a minimum for her.

5.20: Always an informative maiden and one that invariably throws up a decent horse or two. Espiritu has the best form on his runs behind Kite Wood and Cityscape, but preference is for Invisible Man who is said to have improved markedly since his debut.

BEVERLEY RACING TIPS:

1.30: Sharp Eclipse looks best on paper here.

3.10: Everymanforhimself is worth a second look in this sprint. Suited by this course and distance (a winner twice) and well drawn, he has worked his way back to a winning mark. He has the draw and a recent run should ensure he is spot on.

4.55: Labisa should be hard to beat with her good draw. She is virtually a winner without a penalty.

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

2.10: Torphichen ought to get back on the winning trail here.

3.20: Although fancied, Dave’s Dream faces a tough task at the weights. Seven Is My Number flopped at Aintree but may do a lot better under Timmy Murphy and is weighted to beat the favourite on Sandown running.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Set The Trend’s erratic behaviour is becoming a concern. Simplification may be the answer to a tough race.

8.20: Favours Brave may come out best in this. Dancer In Demand looks a disappointing type and even a gelding operation will need to effect a considerable turnaround.


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TUESDAY APRIL 14th:

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

2.20: In the absence of messages, the progressive Wadaat may get away with this. Third to the decent Photographic and then a stubborn second to the fancied Big Bound, she gets her chance today.

3.50: So far Aakef has been something of a disappointment. Gelded since we last saw him at Sandown when he looked a difficult ride, he returns to the course where he scored his solitary win. This looks an appropriate event for him to get his career back on track and he is given a last chance to land the money. He is reported to be in good shape.

4.20: I may be wrong here, this is not a game of exactitudes, but it is my opinion that Dart does not stay two miles. Such a statement contradicts Messrs Fanshawe and Spencer, so I must be prepared to look a fool after the race.

4.50: A big, stuffy individual, Bullet Man is worth following this term. He may not be cherry ripe today but his class should see him through.

FAIRYHOUSE RACING TIPS:

2.25: Ebadiyan looked all set to play a part in the Triumph Hurdle before running out at the second-last. He has a chance to make amends today.

EXETER RACING TIPS:

3.40: More a guess than anything else, but Swordsman appeared to improve for a step up in trip last time. A similar trip may bring out the best in him today, in which case he may repay a small each-way interest.


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BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 13th April:

 

As always plenty of racing today – maybe a case of quantity over quality.

WARWICK RACING TIPS:

2.20: Sarah’s Art ran well enough last week at Windsor to justify some confidence in a moderate Class 5 Handicap.

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

4.20: Warpedsenseofhumor has been noted working well enough at home to be included in calculations on this his debut.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

2.15: This could be an informative maiden. There is a positive message for Dream Win but the race he finished fifth in as a juvenile has not worked out particularly well. This may be irrelevant six months down the line. Negotiation and Dukes Art ran well enough on their debuts to be respected.

3.25: Maverin is another to emerge from the maiden won by Roman Republic. The second was turned over at odds-on at Musselburgh yesterday. Advisor and Kloof provide keen opposition.

5.10: Holyrood really should win. Having clashed with Jukebox Jury and Soul City as a juvenile he will benefit from this step up in trip and, being by Falbrav, looks sure to make a much better three-year-old. Likely to be a very short price…


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SUNDAY APRIL 12th:

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

3.20: Desire To Excel looks the interesting contender here. After a promising debut behind Fajaan at Newmarket, muscular problems prevented him from progressing. If they have been cured he would be dangerous in such company. If not, they have sent him a long way to find out. Striker Torres looks the only conceivable threat.

TOWCESTER RACING TIPS:

A Nicky Henderson double is envisaged here as they expect to win the first and last race. Horseford Hill in the 2.10 and Pipe Banner 5.10 are the horses in question.

Otherwise a quiet day, although there are three interesting events being staged in France today that may shed some light on future developments…


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SATURDAY APRIL 11th:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.05: One of several imponderable races today. Titan Triumph is much better suited by a left-handed turning track, so his latest run at Doncaster can be discarded. He may do better today, but wait until Chester! This is a tight race with Checklow, Cordell and Cape Hawk difficult to assess. Extraterrestrial comes out best on current form but has a killer draw.

2.40: Born Tobouggie is reported to be in good shape and is likely to attract interest this morning. Perfect Star has never won before July in the past, a record that strongly points to her being a mare that is best in the autumn. Dixey and Festoso may be better for the outing leaving Scuffle as the main danger.

3.45: Well drawn and fit Al Muheer is nothing more than a sporting selection.

4.50: Mr Willis faces a rise in grade but there was no fluke in his beating of the well fancied Fantastic Dubai last time. His mark of 76 seems reasonable.

5.55: Press The Button has some form from last year that suggests he can go well against his opponents today. A fourth to Suits Me and a third to Millville makes for good reading and accounts for a weight rise by the handicapper.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

4.05: My only reservation about easy Newbury winner Gershwin following up is the ground. By Alhaarth, he would not want it too firm and gave an indication that he was reluctant to stride out form the final fence last time despite a convincing success. However, his win that day was no surprise to his stable and if allowed to take his chance he is the one to beat.


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THURSDAY APRIL 09th:

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

Little to get excited about today:

2.10: Rare Art and Perfect Class are taken as two against the field.

2.40: Aye Aye Digby may be suited by the return to six furlongs and along with Vhujon are wishy-washy picks.

A 2×2 double the four selections comes to 4 bets. It is the only suggestion I can make today, but it is only a suggestion.


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WEDNESDAY APRIL 08th:

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

2.00: With no winners having emerged from the race Star Rover won at Kempton, he does not appeal as the type to defy a penalty. It is pure guesswork at this stage, but Gillburg – the oldest horse in the field and well bred – could be the one to lower his colours.

3.30: Fiulin may be the answer to this on the assumption the ground is on top. He has the look of a horse capable of improving as a four-year-old.

BRIGHTON RACING TIPS:

2.50: They have found a bad race for Western Roots who has only the top two to beat. Benedict Spirit has done all his winning at Southwell; the bigger danger could be Cactus King, but Western Roots may have needed his last outing and is taken to go one better in this company.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Crown Choice looks an interesting contender for this. Third on his debut at Newmarket this time last year in one of the divisions of the Wood Ditton, he clearly can go well fresh and there have been signs that Walter Swinburn’s yard is coming to hand.


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TUESDAY APRIL 07th:

PONTEFRACT RACING TIPS:

2.10: Chapter And Verse has to be the selection here, although at present I cannot back this comment up with a message. With the stable in such good form, and taking into account Chapter And Verse’s last run in October when beaten just over three lengths by Roman Republic in a race that contained several touted youngsters, he should be hard to beat.

3.10: The Clive Cox yard appear to be in good heart and their representative here, Dunno, may be worth chancing.

4.10: Roseberry fifth Albaqaa, representing Richard Fahey, another yard that has hit the ground running, looks the one to beat. Rain is forecast, which would suit Jaser who was at his best last spring in the soft. Mull Of Kintyre could go well in this company as the track will suit his style of running. Hawaass has been installed as a short price favourite but, although respected, having not been seen since June last year, he seems to be creating a market for those with more solid claims.   Punters are advised to see what the weather does before crashing in this morning.


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MONDAY APRIL 06th

Nothing to recommend on a poor day…


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SUNDAY April 5th

There is little to get excited about today, which comes as a welcome rest after what seems like a busy, and largely unrewarding, week.

At the CURRAGH, Vocalised should be good enough to win the 2.45. Considered as a Group horse after two promising runs last year, his stable are in form and this looks like an ideal stepping stone to better things.

3.45: I confess to not being sure about Mad About You over seven furlongs. This looks tough for a filly whose best form is over further. One or two of these may have too much speed for her.

4.45: Aristocrat’s third to Mourayan last year means he lines up in this maiden with by far the best credentials and it will be a surprise if he starts at odds-against.

On the domestic front, it would appear the Alan King stable feel they are poised to mop up at both Southwell and Market Rasen with the likes of  Hugo Wolf, Turkish Surprise, Sadler’s Star, Rustarix and Shilpa.


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SATURDAY April 4th

 

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

1.45: Well regarded Copper Bleu looks a standout to get punters off to a flying start. Only 3 lengths behind Go Native in the Supreme Novices’ at Cheltenham and before that having beaten Riverside Theatre, who was  fourth here yesterday in a tougher contest, he has a progressive profile.

2.15: S ong of Songs is another who is improving with each run. His strength is his jumping but his beating of Deep Purple – on a line through Planet Of Sound – makes him at least the equal of Arkle runner-up Kalahari King. He has a touch of class and looks overpriced.

2.50: I like the chance of Catch Me here. Unbeaten this season, he has been trained for this and has his optimum trip. The opposition is tough but this horse has been winning with ease in Ireland and lines up relatively fresh.

4.15: To quote Ladbrokes, everyone has a National opinion. Mine is State Of Play – enough said!

5.00: On a day where key horses could even the score between bookmakers and punters on the week, it is very hard to get away from Seven Is My Number who ran so well in the Imperial Cup and faces a drop in grade in this.

NEWCASTLE RACING TIPS:

There are messages for the Barry Hills maidens, Ruler Of All in the 4.30 and Full Of Love 5.10. From what I gather, Ruler Of All is thought to be the better prospect.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.10: It may be worth taking a small chance with Mut’ab here. This former Sandown Classic Trial runner is a big horse who may come into this season the finished article. A big price, he is put forward as an optimistic punt to take advantage of a favourable mark.

2.45: Humble Opinion is expected to go well here after a satisfactory spin round Wolverhampton last month. 3.20: Midnight Cruiser has a definite chance on his juvenile form and is the pick of Richard Hughes over Icesolator. So a mixture of some big-priced fancies and some shorter priced solid-looking bets on a day that has the shape of being more than just a bit of fun for the pinstickers. .


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FRIDAY APRIL 03rd

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

2.00: Having won three times at Musselburgh, Red Moloney may be most equipped to handle this tight track. His yard will be grateful of a winner after a quiet year. Red Moloney does have something to find on Sommersby on Cheltenham running but this track could make the difference. American Trilogy has plenty to do with his penalty and against such opposition.

2.35: Herecomesthetruth appeals as the type to take Aintree in his stride. Although closely matched with Massini’s Maguire on their clash at Sandown, his overall profile is the more progressive.

3.10: The stable are confident Voy Por Ustedes will win, but he is priced accordingly and I have always regarded him as being overated. Nacarat’s Racing Post win is suspect. Tidal Bay has yet to convince. I don’t know…

4.20: There is a loud shout for Karabak and he looks the logical call. He faces tough opponents and his price gives little away, but he ought to justify the hype today.

4.55: These kind of races are heartbreakers for punters. Mamlook clipped heels at Cheltenham and under the circumstances worked hard to get back into contention. He must have a chance.

BATH RACING TIPS:

2.10: Crown looks interesting on paper. Chicita Banana ran no more than okay at Doncaster.

4.30: There is a word for Espy here.

All in all, we face a tough day so it may be best to keep a lid on the bank!


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

THURSDAY APRIL 02nd

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

Have a care here as the script may not be followed to the letter:

2.00: Big Buck’s ought to win as he faces an easier task than at Cheltenham. Let him win; he cannot be supported at the price. Talk of Mighty Man coming back from the brink of obscurity seems fanciful.

2.35: Faced with very different conditions today and after a hard race at Cheltenham, Walkon looks a sitting duck of sorts. If he wins he deserves all the plaudits, but he faces two rivals tailor-made for Aintree in Starluck and Hebridean. If there is weakness in Starluck it may his ability to stay a truly run two miles. Hebridean, who by-passed Cheltenham for this will relish the ground and is given a narrow vote. For those taking a professional approach, it is a case of perming any one from three.

3.10: Good luck to Denman. A repitition of his run in the Gold Cup will be good enough, but this ground is not ideal and neither, I suspect, is the track. Again, he ought to win – I hope he does – but the head must rule the heart and it is a case of no bet.

4.55: Planet Of Sound is worth backing. This trip, the ground and his progressive nature all add up to a horse that can improve on his excellent third in the Arkle. He should be favourite in my opinion and will carry my cash.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

2.10: Initial reports suggest Farmer Giles will be good enough to emulate the same connections’ win in this last year.

2.45: There has to be a ground doubt over Chocolicious in this seller.

The rest of the card is interesting, but until the wellbeing of the Peter Chapple-Hyam stable is established it seems prudent to watch what seems a strong team today.

 

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

5.55: Satwa Street has been crying out for the minimum trip as he is a blitzer. He faces a couple of dark horses tonight but the trip will help.

6.55: Golden Prospect ran with considerable promise over this course and distance last time and if reproducing that effort, will be in the firing line.


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WEDNESDAY APRIL 01st

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.30: Danies Boy ran with promise on his debut at Kempton behind the useful Seek N’ Destroy. Beaten just two lengths, fitness and improvement may make him the value against his main market rivals that have yet to reappear this season.

4.30: Fantastic Dubai looks potentially lobbed in for this his handicap debut from a mark of only 67. A narrow winner of his maiden here when strongly fancied, he is better than the bare form but may be a bit of a boyo. He pulled hard and ran green and for once the handicapper has taken the run literally. Fantastic Dubai will need to be more tractable this afternoon, but for a horse considered as Greenham material by his stable he ought to be accorded the benefit of any doubt from such a lowly mark.

March Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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MARCH


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TUESDAY MARCH 31st

At this stage FOLKESTONE is anyone’s guess.

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Dzesmin has not always created the right impression but he has ability, acts on soft and seems versatile enough to handle the Southwell surface. Now down amongst the dead men in terms of rating, he ought to be good enough to land the opener.

2.40: Rebel Duke is presented with a clear cut opportunity in a race that to my mind concerns only three runners. Although not especially well treated in general from a mark of 83, Whiskey Creek has a definite chance and along with unknown quantity on the surface, Tajneed, looks likely to present the main stumbling block.

4.55: The improving Statute Book – a course and distance winner – will be hard to beat here. In Hunterview he faces a horse with reasonable turf form, from a yard that knows the time of day, and whose sire is responsible for winners on dirt; so there is every chance he will act. A close contest to call.


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MONDAY MARCH 30th

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.00: Set The Trend, a fine big son of Reset, handled this track well last time despite a rough passage. In a race that contains the usual suspects, he ought to add to his tally without too much trouble.

3.00: At this time of year late foals in two-year-old races are at a disadvantage. Victorian Art is the youngest filly by a day, but the Choisir filly, Emma Jean Lass is only a day behind and is a big price in the paper. She is bred to go a bit and may be value.   If there is a bet today, it is Set The Trend.


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Sunday March 29

Doncaster Horse Racing Tips

This looks a tough day by any standards. I have tackled the 4.15 at Doncaster but it does not have a good shape to it.

Palace Moon is obviously interesting – something picked up by the bookmakers. Northern Fling has solid form at this level but the fact that Adrian Nicholls rides Evens And Odds could be interesting. Now with Dandy Nicholls, this is undoubtedly a well handicapped horse capable of running up a sequence if his astute trainer can find the key to him. Of late this horse has been a massive under achiever, hence his generous mark based on his best form. He is one to watch, but on flimsy evidence it is hard to recommend a bet on such a complex sprint handicap so early in the season.

4.50: Orbitor and Gilano Hernando look the interesting contenders, but they are the first two in the betting so such observation provides little in the way of original thought.   All in all a quiet day…


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Sat 28 March

After last night’s bullish optimism, this morning’s cold light brings a finger of realism. Today’s cards are tricky, but not without opportunities. Here goes, with a slightly abridged version after yesterday’s gushing, And Another Thing… Great leveller this business:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

2.45: This may be tough but the quality horses should rise to the top. They are Spectiat, Slugger O’Toole,  Manassas and Fireside. The last two are unproven in competitive handicaps and are ‘ghost’ horses. Slugger O’Toole looks on the upgrade and will do for me.

3.55: Again the Lincoln (not normally a race I would consider too much) looks as if it will be dominated by the quality contenders. To my mind these are Swop and Expresso Star. Fit from an emphatic win in Dubai, Swop should be hard to beat.

4.30: London Bridge has clear form claims for this maiden after a troublesome passage on his debut at Newbury last October. The horse that beat him had form with Donatavium and Kites Wood. Above Average is expected to run well at a price but this looks a race with London Bridge’s name on it.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS

3.00: Cape Express is strongly fancied. He might well win, but 5/2 about a dual Wolverhampton winner racing from a mark of 96 in a competitive handicap…you can fill in the blanks! Whitcombe Minister remains the selection despite a dodgy draw.

3.35: Bronze Cannon did well enough last week in a slowly run event to suggest he can take this.

NAD AL SHEBA HORSE RACING TIPS

1.40: Godolphin seem to feel Gayego may beat two Step Salsa, in which case he wins. At face value his last run was excellent.

2.15: Naval Officer looks overpriced over this extra yardage against Desert Party.

2.55: Tough specialist dirt sprinter Big City Man is taken to beat  Indian Blessing.

3.55: Mike de Kock’s remarks that Bankable may peak for Hong Kong are off putting for a horse I considered to hold a great chance in a wide open contest. Archipenko may come out on top but it is hard to call.

Best on the day: Gayego, Big City Man, London Bridge; with small multiple bets suggested on the priced horses: Slugger O’Toole, Whitcombe Minister, Swop and Naval Officer.


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Friday 27th March

ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

Philip Hobbs has his team in good order just now and must have high hopes of a double on this card.

4.40: Last year’s winner, Out The Black, looks to have every chance of lifting this prize again after a decent effort at Doncaster in February.

5.15: Barnhill Brownie is perhaps the more interesting from the same stable in what appears a weak event, certainly in comparison to the company he has raced against. A most likeable sort with a will to win who is only lightly raced and partnered by a top conditional, he has to be the call.

I am resisting any temptation to add to this list today as tomorrow appears to be bursting with betting opportunities.


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Thursday 26th March

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.05: You Avin A Laugh narrowly missed out on the money last time over five furlongs. He gave the impression that an extra furlong may have made the difference, so it is arguable this slower surface will suit. However, those unproven at Southwell are always dubious propositions and his pedigree  is not an obvious dirt one.

4.40: This looks to rest between course winner Calculating and Rough Sketch. Although a winner over two miles on Polytrack, there is no guarantee Calculating will stay the trip on this surface. Rough Sketch on the other hand looks as if it may improve him. Caught out for pace in a slowly run affair won by subsequent winner Shanafarahan last time, he is taken to outstay Calculating despite what appears an unwarranted 5lbs weight rise from the handicapper.

CARLISLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.35: The booking of Timmy Murphy for Checkerboard could be significant here. Many of Howard Johnston’s inmates had been held up by the weather so it seems reasonable to expect improvement from Checkerboard who appears to jump well.


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Wednesday 25th March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Some Time Good showed promise when fifth to subsequent Newmarket winner Heliodor at Goodwood in September. With his yard in fine form, he could be the answer here.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.50: There is a word from Lambourn for Seek N’ Destroy from the in-form Barry Hills yard. He is a tricky horse to assess as his juvenile form gave little away, except to demonstrate he possessed ability. Paper favourite, Pedasus looks beatable, but Seek N’ Destroy bumps into a couple of likely lads that are unraced and hail from big yards tonight. He is certainly one to include in calculations.


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Tuesday 24th March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

There is a message for Muraweg in the 2.50 at Lingfield today. He likely to be a short-price. Personally I am taking the opportunity of what I consider to be a poor day’s racing to take a break. There should be plenty of better opportunities in the pipeline over the coming weeks and months.


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Monday 23rd March

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

It is not hard to fancy horses here – You’re The Top – Dreamy Sweeney – possibly Randwick Roar – but the prices are unappealing and doubts persist. Two heavy falls for Dreamy Sweeney – and in the case of Randwick Roar regarding the proficiency of his jumping.

PLUMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: First Avenue ran well enough on soft ground on his debut and has been well-schooled since. However, a catalogue of excuses trail in his wake and Know The Law may be a safer option for those wishing to pull up their money.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

Claimer and Selling day. Mick Easterby is always a man to be feared at this level. In Western Art in the 2.20 and Danish Art in the 2.50 he fields two very interesting contenders. The fact Western Art only went through the ring for 2,500 gns tends to be off-putting until one has a second look at the owner, who in fact retained the horse! Two possible gambles.   However, we are dealing with dubious possibilities that may only become apparent as stronger contenders when the money is down. With a big day looming on Saturday in preparation for Aintree, there is no need to guess for anything other than shirt buttons just now.


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Sunday 22nd March

A quiet day is reported from this quarter, making it an ideal to take a break. A busy time is ahead!


Bush Telegraph

Saturday 21st March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.05: Judd Street returns to this country after three excellent runs in Dubai, any one of which would be good enough to win this. It is hard to see his latest defeat by the high class J J The Jet Plane (beaten only just over four lengths) being matched by today’s opponents. In great form, a spring horse with a good draw, he lines up with plenty of positives to his name.

2.35: I can give Qalahari a chance here at a big price.

3.05: The Winter Derby is simply too hard, with more potential winners of the race in the line up than losers. I expect Premio Loco to stay and clearly he has been trained with this in mind. But Re Barolo is solid, Scintillo on a roll, Suits Me and Kandidate have proven credentials. Although Bronze Cannon was unimpressive last time we saw him, his yard have kept him so one presumes he will better his abysmal last run. So a tough race best watched.

3.40: Hypnotist is a hopeful selection after a good debut in a warm maiden

5.25: Jesse James looks different class and is confidently expected to win the sundowner.

With the exception of the impeding Aintree meeting, jump racing is too complex for me at this time of year.

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.20 Strawberry does well in the spring and could go close .

2.50: Ping Pong Sivola returns to action after a hard race nine days ago at Cheltenham. The wisdom of such action is debatable.

3.30: Ravello Bay breaks blood-vessels, so not one to rely on. The list continues…

Judd Street and Jessie James for me.

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FRIDAY 20th March

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

2.10 Michel Le Bon and in the next, the 2.40, Fiftyonefiftyone both finished behind the progressive According to Dick at the last meeting. Both have their chances today. Neither will be attractively priced though, and fall into the category of being in the bleedin’ obvious. 5.00: Indian Blood could be well treated here.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.00: You Avin A Laugh could be better than so far shown and should be monitored in the betting.

2.30: Simplification has run against better class than she faces here and can be relied upon to be fit. Only the unraced Kaabari stands in her way of that first success.

4.50: The handling of Sir Liam is turning into a catalogue of misfortune. Stepped up in trip, he can win today, but is 2lbs out of the handicap. Surely a more suitable event can be found. I am becoming exasperated by events surrounding this animal and, whilst prepared to see him win, reluctant to throw any more money his way.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: Phoenix Flight won like a horse capable of better last time. But by Hawk Wing, he is stepped up to two miles tonight so it is hard to be confident.

DUNDALK RACING TIPS:

7.00: Tarousa fits the part in this, but is something of a guess on a day that requires a degree of blind faith.


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THURSDAY 19th March:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Onemix may not be the most original of selections but her second to Boscage – albeit slightly flattering as the winner ran about a bit – entitles her to break her duck in what looks a poor maiden. Boscage has confirmed his wellbeing since by winning (admittedly a weak event) from a mark of 85.

Onemix showed enough promise and it will be a surprise if her price matches that of the 9/4 quoted in the paper. She looks the bet of the day.   I can pass on two messages: Western Roots in the 6.50 at Kempton and William Bonney in the 2.30 Ludlow. Neither make enough appeal to tempt me to risk a diminishing pot at present.


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Wednesday 18th March:

Jump racing today is too much of a struggle for me, but this evening’s card at Kempton is of interest.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

 4.10: Sir Liam is a winner without a penalty here and may be worth a small investment. Held-up off a slow pace last time then caught out when it increased, he was catching the winner hand-over-fist at the line, which came a few strides too soon. This is harder, but he looks primed to win and there should be more pace on today. Ideally, I would like to see him over further but feel a strong run mile-and-a-half should be adequate.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: The Kentucky Derby Challenge sees the reappearance of several interesting types. Mafaaz boasts the best form on his fifth to subsequent Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Donativum at Newmarket. Richard Hills elects to partner him in preference to Haashed, a winner in a fast time at Lingfield when creating a favourable impression. Akhenaten is another coming here with a reputation and unlike the other two, a run under his belt. In the lack of any definite pointer, a race to watch at this stage.

8.20: Interestingly, Scintillo by-passes the Winter Derby (one assumes) to contest this tonight. After a promising return, despite a chequered career, he would appear to have a big chance. He is the sort of four-year-old his excellent yard does well with. I am not put off by his win to run ration as he has often taken part in races he was incapable of winning. My one reservation is tonight’s trip. I would have thought ten furlongs would have suited better but, the Hannon stable rarely get such things wrong and I am not about to suggest they are wrong here. It is just a stone in my shoe as far as selecting him with confidence is concerned.

8.50: Merton Lad does look as if this step up in trip has already improved him. Third last time behind Dubai Storming over this distance, tonight may be his night. He should not beat Suupernoverre, but that is based on form over shorter. An 11lbs hike for Key Regard who beat yesterday’s winner, Filun, looks harsh and he will need to improve again. Merton Lad and Sir Liam are seen as value bets on a tricky day.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 17th March:

Little to mention today:

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

At SOUTHWELL, Boscage should be good enough to win this handicap if home reputation is any guide. Although only a narrow winner at Lingfield, he was green that day and should leave that run behind him. A mark of 85 does infer his usefulness, so the handicapper was presumably impressed. The fact he switches surfaces should prove no barrier as Mark Johnston never gets this wrong. That is to say, I have never noted one of his run at Southwell and get beaten because they failed to act on Fibresand.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

At KEMPTON, China Gold should win the 3.05, particularly as he receives weight from chief rival, King’s Forest. The one negative is that being by Bob’s Return, the ground may be too lively.


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Monday 16th March:

TAUNTON RACING TIPS:

2.20: Alflora is fancied here. Seems short enough after plenty of chances.

5.20: It is invariably hard to carry a penalty in bumpers, something first and second favourites, Giordano Bruno and Swansbrook attempt. The 5lbs lobbed off the Hobbs representative by the conditional rider will help, but apparently Swansbrook has improved since his last success. At the prices, neither make much appeal.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.30: Statute Book is very much on the upgrade but faces a tough task now having been hoisted to a 10lbs higher mark by the handicapper since his last win. Apparently he faces a fancied Pearl Of Manacor from a in-form stable.


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Sunday 15th March:

There are no messages or tips today.


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Saturday 14th March:

It is back to Lingfield and the Flat for me today.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.30: This tame-looking seller looks well within Sunset Boulevard’s compass. He is surely better than this.

4.05: Having tumbled in the weights since winning last March, Bee Stinger looks to have a good opportunity of getting back on the score sheet. He last won off 80 but contests this from a mark of 68. Okay, he is no longer up to defying a mark of 80 but still looks four or five pounds well in. A recent campaign that has included runs over ten furlongs (not his ideal trip) have helped settle his mark and now he returns to his ideal distance and must have a good chance.

4.40: Volito recovered from a sluggish start on debut to run with promise. He should know more today in an event that will take little winning.

5.15: Stepped up a furlong to his optimum trip after a promising second over the minimum last time to in-form Chjimes, Qadar lines up with a favourite’s chance despite the outside draw which, for a hold-up horse, may not be a disadvantage.

UTTOXETER RACING TIPS:

At UTTOXETER in the 2.35, it is possible that Bulwark may make the most of a light weight. But his record suggests he can never be considered as anything but a tenuous bet. King’s Revenge is edging toward a winning mark but is drastically raised in trip, which may not suit. After some hard battles, it could he the edge has gone from a horse whose consistency has been his own worst enemy.


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Friday March 13th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

1.30: Jumbo Rio looks the best of the Irish contingent using Ebadiyan as a guide, as he beats Lethal Weapon and these appear the best on offer from across the Irish Sea. Master Of Arts will need to break a trend if he is to win this on the back of only one run over hurdles. Invariably this is a rough race won by a streetwise hurdler, and for that reason the progressive Walkon – likely to be all the better on good ground – is taken to gain revenge on his Newbury conqueror, Zaynar, whose best form is on soft.

2.05: There is only one winner of this if he is able to replicate his Imperial Cup form and that is Dave’s Dream. However, that is not certain; but the form is strong – as confirmed by Mr Thriller’s effort on Wednesday – so he is difficult to oppose. As a betting proposition though, he makes limited appeal.

3.20: A confusing Gold Cup that is probably best watched. Possibly Air Force One should be included in perms, but it will need the principals to under-perform for him to win.

4.40: Understandably, the Pipe stable field a strong hand here. Best of their runners would appear to be Mamlook, who took the eye at Ascot last time when blowing up after looking likely to take the winner, Serebad, all the way in a valuable handicap. He has the look of the horse laid out for this, whereas several of the others give the impression of appearing as an afterthought.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

At WOLVERHAMPTON, after his third last time to Spectiat, Tourist gets his chance despite a wide draw. However, with only eight runners, he should get away with it.

Best on the day: Walkon, Mamlook and Tourist.


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Thursday March 12th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

1.30: Once again the Irish seem to hold the key to this. A case can be constructed for Back On The Road on his second to Horner Woods, but it is a tenuous one as he is held by Tranquil Sea who looks more of a solid contender. Northern Alliance has strong claims and the race could be between him and Tranquil Sea. The Irish have looked much too good for us at this meeting for whatever reason. Possibly the winter weather hold up has played a major part; whatever the explanation, they seem to hold the best hand of cards. Of the home contingent, Kia Kaha’s jumping is not convincing. Astrador can be accorded a chance on his second to Arkle runner-up Kalahari King but his stamina is unproven.

2.05: The drying out ground should aid Don’t Push It. Stablemate, Synchronished, seems best on soft. Buena Vista could be of interest, as could Scriptwriter who shaped well last time at Haydock behind Synchronised and Tazbar. He could represent each-way value in a tough heat.

2.40: Voy Por Ustedes looks teed up for a win here with so much in his favour. Monet’s Garden does not seem to act round Cheltenham, but the each-way alternative is Tidal Bay, now reverting to a suitable trip and racing over a track where he has a good record. He makes some appeal at the price in a race where it is hard to fancy anything else.

3.20: Along with Voy Por Ustedes, Kasbah Bliss is seen as the second banker on the card by many. The one chink in his armour could be the ground, which is quickening all the time. Course winners, Punchestowns and Big Buck’s are credible threats.

On a day of limited possibilities and at a meeting that seems to be getting harder by the day, Tidal Bay is nominated as the only wager, mainly because he seems overpriced with only one horse to beat. For those brave enough, a small each-way bet on Scriptwriter may pay for itself.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Wednesday March 11th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

A suggested perm is set out on our other feature, Pennies To Pounds.

For those wishing a more direct approach, the following may be preferable…

1.30: Kornati Kid. Form with Wichita Lineman speaks for itself.

2.05: Mad Max is the call here although the message for Karabak is strong. I have been impressed with Mad Max this season and he has already beaten Karabak and looks as if this trip will suit. The way he lopes over his hurdles, I am of the opinion the track will not pose a problem.

2.40: Course winner, What A Friend is the call over form choice Cooldine here.

4.00: I consider Pierrot Lumaire to be worth a bet at a long-looking 20/1 at morning odds. He is a spring horse and his latest pipe opener should put him spot on for this. He finished second to Binocular last year at Aintree, meaning he might have been let in lightly from a mark of 153.

4.40: There is a good word for Miss Sarenne here. Recent work with Punjabi may be too good to be true, but if taken at face value, clearly she has a major chance in this handicap.


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TUESDAY March 10th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

It’s here! So let’s go… Nobody gets everything right at Cheltenham, but perhaps by pooling our resources we can have a profitable week. The first four races look like the ones to concentrate on today.

1.30: A better run is expected from Ainama. He has been working well and the stronger pace than he got at Kempton, which he is ensured, is in his favour. We have to be ruthless in assessment of races or else we will end up with a shortlist of ten. Ainama is not for me. Aachen beat Big Eared Fran at Taunton – form that was boosted at Sandown on Saturday. Aachen will need to improve again, which is not out of the question. I am prepared to oppose Cousin Vinny. Slick-jumping four-year-old Torphichen needs to be the equivalent of Binocular to succeed. In a tough opener, my two against the field are Go Native and Kempes.

2.05: I am against Tatenen who is stripped of his weight-for-age advantage now he is a five-year-old. Calgary Bay does not appeal in a rough race such as this is likely to be. Much as I like the horse, Planet Of Sound may be better served by further. I am looking at Golden Silver and Follow The Plan.

2.40: Wichita Lineman is fancied. Although rated 14lbs higher over hurdles, on form so far seen, that looks about right. He has yet to look as good over fences. Perhaps he will put that right today, but I remain unconvinced. Possol made a bad mistake at Kempton in the Racing Post. I am dubious of that form. Patsy Hall may be capable of pulling off yet another big handicap win for his clever trainer. He is blinkered for the first time. For me, Tot O’ Whiskey has disappointed this year. I am going for Millenium Royal who, unlike Wichita Lineman, appears to have transferred his hurdle form to fences.

3.20: For me, now the ground has failed to soften up drastically, Binocular should win. Without the advantage of soft ground, Celestial Halo, apparently in great form, may struggle to beat Binocular. Osana should improve for his first run of the season and can go well. Outside these three it is hard to see anything causing an upset. Crack Away Jack looks underpriced at 14/1 – more like 33/1 I would have thought! If there is to be a surprise, it could be provided by Ashkazar. i am dismissing the remainder.

Those are my thoughts at present. I have put together a staking plan in our other betting feature, Pennies To Pounds, which may be worth taking a look at. Nothing stands out for me as a bet worthy of lumping on, so a few multiple bets could be the answer. Whatever you decide on, good luck.


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MONDAY March 9th:

STRATFORD RACING TIPS:

4.10: Norman The Great has been upped 1lb for finishing third in a slowly run event at Newbury last week that he may have won if things had unfolded differently. Fourth-placed Procas de Thaix did not advertise the form in the Imperial Cup on Saturday and although this represents a drop in grade, that and the fact Norman The Great carries 11st 10lbs tempers confidence. He should go well but faces some likely lads this afternoon.

5.10: I can pass on a word for Pipe Banner in this.

TAUNTON RACING TIPS:

3.20: It is no surprise that Thundering Star has returned to novice company having been raised 5lbs for finishing third at Kempton in a handicap last time. He has a penalty to defy but appears to face little of consequence.

So a quiet day. The quiet before the storm one could say!


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SUNDAY MARCH 8th:

With the standard of racing at a low level today, Bush Telegraph is taking the opportunity to take a rare day off. There will be no tips or Track Notes for today but normal service resumes tomorrow.


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SATURDAY March 7th:

SANDOWN RACING TIPS

2.05: After a double yesterday, there can be no doubting that Nicky Henderson’s horses are peaking once again after an Arctic hold up. Burton Port makes a great deal of appeal in this novice handicap. Third to According To Dick over this course last time in a race where a penalty meant he couldn’t win, he was ridden as if another day was in mind. I suggest this is the day.

2.35: Fresh Air And Fun has to prove his stamina here and looks a dubious favourite.

3.10: If you are prepared to oppose the two market leaders in this, the race has a nice look to it. Mr Thriller may be a good horse but has a lump of weight for a four-year-old. Numide, said to be strongly fancied, is nevertheless fully exposed and vulnerable to an improver. So it is back to Team-Henderson for the highly thought of Dave’s Dream. Considering the reputation this horse holds, it is interesting that Mr Henderson has chosen to follow the handicap rather than novice route with this future Gold Cup winner!

4.20: Song Of Songs has always possessed oodles of talent but has been difficult to train. He jumps fences well, but Restless D’ Artaix, having beaten The Package, and to a lesser extent Deep Purple, make this a trappy event.

I am struggling with the other three cards at a period when it may pay to pace betting activity. Despite the numbers and the supposed complexity of the opening race, I suggest today’s bet is Burton Port.


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FRIDAY March 6th:

A quiet day I suggest:

SANDOWN looks the best of a bad day. Moncadou could be of interest in the 2.45. Backed to win a handicap at the Festival two year’s ago, he has been quiet after that failure but is reunited with Tony McCoy for the first time since. Considering what was expected of him at one time, this represents a big drop in class.   Nicky Henderson’s two runners, Don’t Tell The Wife (3.55) and Tanks For That (5.05) need monitoring. In particular, Tanks For That looks interesting as Barry Geraghty prefers him to Ravello Bay, indicating his mount must have schooled well. It is too close to Cheltenham for top jockeys to take unnecessary chances.

Essentially, take it easy…


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Thursday March 5th

Courtesy of Dubai, this is a cracker of a day! Not only is the racing at Nad Al Sheba top class, but it provides some betting opportunities. Having looked at the domestic cards, only Wolverhampton offers any interest as far as I am concerned. I apologise to jumping fans in advance, but trying to decipher what is on offer at the likes of Wincanton, Carlisle and Lingfield makes no appeal.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.40: Jose Adan looked unwilling on his turf debut. He now switches to dirt and wears a visor: hardly credentials for a betting proposition.

4.10: City Style obviously has ability but his attitude looked questionable when winning here three weeks’ ago. His fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile gives him a tenuous length to find on stablemate Liberation who will be a big danger if fit. Naval Officer is the other runner in what looks a three-cornered contest. Slight preference is for Liberation.

4.45: This looks to be between Diabolical, whose form against the likes of Marchand D’or at Santa Anita and behind African Rose on soft ground speaks for itself. Dirt specialist Big City Man has already made his mark at the Carnival winning twice, and presents a serious challenge. He has a bit to find on Diabolical but his is winning form, whereas Diabolical’s form is in defeat. A tough call.

515: There are a couple question marks hanging over the principals here. Lucky Find will appreciate the step up in trip and Honour Devil showed no sparkle last month, whilst Echoes Rock is unproven on the surface.It may pay to take a chance with the progressive Snaafy who is three from four on dirt. He will need to improve again but the way he has been winning suggests he is riding a crest of a wave at present and he looks overpriced.

5.45: Mourilyan can make it third time lucky at the Carnival after a massive run a week ago when failing to see out the two miles. It is to be hoped the race has not left his mark. He travelled sweetly for most of the journey and will appreciate this drop back to a mile-and-a-half. This is no cakewalk. Purple Moon (possibly just in need of it but feared nonetheless) and the tough Quijano look the most likely dangers. The rest may be found out in this grade.

6.15: The big question mark here is whether Kirkless – so impressive on turf last time – can adapt equally effectively to dirt. This is no given. Asiatic Boy plugged on when third to My Indy last time but somehow did not appeal as quite the same horse as we saw last year. Happy Boy finished strongly when splitting My Indy and Asiatic Boy, creating the impression he will benefit from ten furlongs. This was his best run since last year’s blitz performance which encouraged Godolphin to purchase him. I am tempted to nominate him as the winner. It would be no surprise to see Tiz Now Tiz Then – a dirt specialist who ran with a great deal of promise a fortnight ago – go well at a price. He has at least seven pounds to find but could still surprise.

6.45: This a quality affair but provides a tough closer to a wonderful card. Vodka, Balius, Strategic News and Third Set seem to head the list of contenders, but a revival from Jay Peg could not be ruled out so this does look like a race to savour rather than to bet in.

Snaafy and Mourilyan look to represent the best bets on the card; but a multiple bet incorporating some of those mentioned should be considered.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: Canwinn should be different class to his rivals.

8.50: Tourist remains an interesting prospect, but the cat is out of the bag and scampering down the road after last week’s fine run from a poor draw. This is a tough little handicap with Spectait one of several serious opponents. Pevensey is worth keeping an eye on as this trip on this surface looks too sharp for him. It would appear he is being groomed for an imminent pop at something, possibly at the start of the turf season.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Wednesday March 4th

Not much to quicken the pulse today:

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.10: Sir Liam may have turned some sort of corner. I only hope it is not leading me into a blind alley. A step up in trip appears to have brought about improvement and with two good recent runs at Lingfield on the board, he should be in the firing line again today. There is just a chance that the favourite, Rough Sketch, is too short based on one run and the booking of Jamie Spencer, so Sir Liam is offered as a value alternative.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Tuesday March 3rd

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.10: Grimes Faith returns to the track where he has the best record. This opener looks to be between him and Efistorm.

4.40: More Time Tim is only a 1lb higher than when winning an apprentice handicap five days ago from Barataria more comfortably than he was entitled to on the book. This points to a horse very much on the upgrade and he can go in again.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Monday March 2nd

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

5.10: Just the one suggestion on an otherwise ordinary day. It may be worth taking a chance with one of racing’s under-achievers in Al Azy. Don’t laugh! This son of Nayef did nothing but disappoint for John Dunlop but has run in much better company. Some of Nayef’s offspring do tend to need time as he throws up big unfurnished types. Al Azy falls into this category and I suspect he was a weak three-year-old. Now with David Simcock, a very able trainer, Al Azy ran a lot better than the formbook suggests on his reappearance at Kempton after an eight month break. Momentarily outspeeded, he was staying on under very considerate handling behind Prince Charlemagne. He has not been gelded as you might have imagined and holds several engagements later in the month. Now, maybe I am constructing a case that is non-existent but at likely odds of 10/1, I consider Al Azy worth an interest.


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Sunday March 1st

 

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS

2.40: Conditions are in place for a major run from Hot Diamond in this.. He barely stays two miles but this sharp track and half-decent ground means he gets his optimum requirements. El Dancers’ form has been let down and Mount Helicon, although a horse with ability, is looking as if his heart is not in this game. No good thing in a race peppered with doubts, but Hot Diamond gets his chance.

4.10: It would be wise to disregard Dave’s Dreams’ latest run at Ascot.. He made a mistake early and his stable was not firing having been all but snowed-in during the bleak spell of weather. We should see more of the real article here. Held in the highest regard, he should go close from a mark of 130. For a big horse, this may not be the ideal track but Nicky Henderson invariably knows what he is doing. Hills Of Arran faces more realistic opposition after bumping into Lough Derg last week and Kasbah Bliss before that. But the weight concession and his third race in quick succession may find him out.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

3.20: Baan ran one of his better races last time when a closing second to Mr Aitch. 2lbs better off with the winner for a neck plus a 3lbs apprentice allowance, he gets the chance to put a long losing run behind him. He looks overpriced on the assumption that pundits have marked him down as a non-winner. This extra trip may be what he has been crying out for. Benhego’s best form is on right-handed courses and one wonders whether Gary Moore can produce the oracle twice with a Stuart Williams cast-off.

3.50: Making sense of this is not easy. Flipando has an obvious chance.. Internationaldebut would have made plenty of appeal but the draw is off-putting. Wasp has a chance but is hard to way-up.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS

3.30: Along The Nile returns to a track where he has a good record. He failed to stay last time at Southwell when hardly put in the race. He has a good chance in a tricky race. His mark is okay but he is saddled with 11st 7lbs including his rider’s allowance. Should be in the firing line. There is little between him and Joe Jo Star on a line through European Dream.

February Archive Free Racing tips from spy


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FEBRUARY


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Saturday February 28th

Today is difficult to the point of being unappealing. I have two pieces of news I can pass your way, although it is difficult to get enthusiastic.. Both run at Doncaster

Doncaster Racing Comments

4.00: Fidelis. This comes from a yard that has a winner when the planets are in alignment. It runs in a race that is impossible to assess. As a piece of information it is probably next to useless. All I know is that it is fancied.

5.10: Dev. This can win but the race is not easy.

At Newbury, I am attempting to construct a case around Norman The Great in the 3.45. He does look to have a chance but I am guilty of trying to find something. I did not get where I am today (and I am not sure where that is) by manufacturing bets.   At present nothing stands out.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Friday 27th Feb

This does not look like a day to dwell on, so it is more of a case of passing on a few tit-bits.

NEWBURY: Looks difficult and nothing appeals as betting material.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

Mail De Bievre is confidently expected to win by his stable. Short-priced horses in bumpers are largely a waste of time.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.25: Statute Book has improved since winning at Southwell where he did the job nicely. He is fancied to follow-up.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Quince can win this but the key will be a decent pace. He really wants an extra couple of furlongs based on evidence so far seen.

7.50: Tourist is one of the more interesting runners of the day. After two promising runs this year with new connections, he looks the sort his yard will do well with. However, the draw makes it difficult to be confident and it seems more a case of watching him for next time.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Thursday 26th Feb

Plenty of opportunities today so let’s get cracking…

LUDLOW RACING TIPS:

3.20: Patsy Finnegan is expected to appreciate the extra trip and follow up on a recent success.

5.20: Despite the presence of the odds-on Eradicate, Sampson’s Son has reportedly schooled exceptionally well since his Doncaster debut and is expected to finish second at worst.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.10: This could be tighter than the betting indicates. Form lines suggest Barataria may come out on top; although More Time Tim could be improving and Rock Anthem is not out of contention.

5.10: Trueblue Wizard returns to the track where he opened his account. He did not look as effective at Wolverhampton last time and is taken to recover the winning thread here. He is worth backing.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Wine ‘N Dine will be suited by the pace that is assured in this; whereas last time, in what developed into a sprint, he was caught flat-footed. Had looked impressive at Kempton when winning and should get back on the right track tonight.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

4.15: Roman’s Run, on advantageous terms with Art Of War, looks the one to beat here in a race that concerns only a limited number of runners.

4.45: Veracity should win this but will be priced accordingly. There has to be a doubt about Mourilyan staying this far.

5.15: Reports of J J The Jet Plane have so far appeared exaggerated. Of course that is based on one run on dirt and he reverts to turf today. However, Hatta Fort lines up from a yard in terrific form, having beaten the smart Imbongi and subsequent winner, Balthazaar’s Gift. In another race that may not concern too many runners, even if J J The Jet Plane justifies the hype, Hatta Fort should finish second and has every chance of upsetting the favourite given his current wellbeing.

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Wednesday 25th Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.30: The two of interest here are Hunt The Bottle and Great Knight, both of whom ran as if approaching winning form last time. Neither is well drawn. Hunt The Bottle faces a daunting task from the eleven box but is worth keeping an eye on with a view to the future. Great Knight’s task is not impossible from eight but will need luck in running..

6.00: Waldorf is considered better than a 56-rated horse here but tends to get revved-up prior to his races. The sort that could win but equally could throw his chance away.

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Old Pretender is taken to put an unfortunate run behind him over this course.   Nothing stands out as a bet today, so these are no more than ideas. Hopefully, tomorrow will provide better opportunities.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 24th Feb

To be honest it is not much of a day. The stand out horse as regards class ought to be Song Of Songs in the 2.20 at Leicester, having put up such an encouraging round of jumping on his fencing debut behind Planet Of Sound at Newbury. He looked in need of the run that day, apparently blowing up over the final two fences. I say ‘apparently’ because he was something of a mystery horse over hurdles when lightly-raced and a major disappointment at both Cheltenham, when failing to stay, but more notably at Aintree when running a shocker.  His class ought to be enough but he is a short price for a horse that has such a fragile history.

Dance And Dance looks as if he gets his chance in the 2.30 at Lingfield having bumped into a useful debutant of Andrew Balding’s last time. Another likely to be short; he has had a few chances and would be vulnerable to an improver or to the unraced Hector Spectre if he turns out to be any good.

This has the look of a day to either watch or to leave alone.


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Monday 23rd Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.10: Almaty Express is probably on the decline but has a chance of winning this event on his way down the rankings. An easy ride, he has the services of an excellent apprentice, reducing his mark to 65 – if one is prepared to take McHugh’s 7lb allowance at face value. Far from a good thing, he nevertheless deserves consideration from such a level in a race that lacks depth.

4.10: National Monument may represent value against Badge Of Honour as his third to Love Pegasus (a stablemate of Badge Of Honour’s) posted promise, particularly after a slow start. Badge Of Honour does not look anything special.

5.10: Man Of Gwent has put together a couple of fair efforts and the right race may have been found.

HEREFORD RACING TIPS:

2.30: Calificial carries stable confidence in this. Apparently a couple of wind operations are expected to allow this horse to realise his potential. Taking 9/4 about a horse that has had a couple of operations does not seem like a sensible course to me. However, I pass the message on. The race certainly looks winnable but I shall sit it out.


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Sunday 22nd Feb

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.55: Alpes Maritimes has not been an easy horse to train – not when with Geoff Wragg or now he is with Gary Moore. However, the ability has always been in place and he ran an encouraging race last time when fifth to King Olav from a 2lbs higher mark. Rated 76 today, that means he is 7lbs below his assessment when second to Silver Pivotal a year ago when at the height of his form. If able to even part- replicate that in this suitable event, he should be hard to beat. Worth taking a chance with.

5.25: Moon Crystal is another for whom the right race has been found. She may be 2lbs higher than when winning last time but it is difficult to nominate what will beat her today.


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Saturday 21st Feb

This has the look of a knotty day – a typical Saturday with value and betting opportunities thin on the ground. After what has been a good week, hopefully signaling the upward shift one hopes for at this time of year, it is not my intention to risk winnings on a day that looks bookmaker-friendly.

However, this is possibly the last Saturday to throw out Cheltenham clues so it is not without interest.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.05: Ainama is supposed to be a high class prospect. He is not a bet at the price today but if he beats Dee EE Williams on only his second start, then his stable has every right to believe they have a potential star on their hands.

3.10: In a race where Big Fella Thanks represents no value, I intend to have a small bet on Endless Power, who has the look of a horse that has been laid out for this. Having won over the National fences at a trip just short of 2m 6f, there is every reason to believe he will stay and he does not look badly treated. He is a front-runner which may be his undoing (that and nineteen opponents) but if Robert Thornton can settle him early, he could go well. At 33/1, I am prepared to be wrong!

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

LINGFIELD presents another hard card. I would not dismiss Swiss Franc in the 3.40 despite the fact he cannot win at the weights.

4.10: Suits Me ought to extend his winning run but faces tough opposition.

5.15: I make this between Whistledownwind and Wasp, who on a line through Red Somerset are closely matched. I thought Whistledownwind disappointing last time, but in Premio Loco he was beaten by a decent animal. It is hard to gauge how good Wasp might be, whilst at the age of nine and never having won over this trip, it seems a bit late in the day to nominate Bonus.

A day to play with caution…


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Friday 20th Feb

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

2.45: According To Dick is taken to justify his home reputation. Strongly fancied on his hurdles debut when last seen at Exeter, he travelled well but got tired in desperate ground. Today’s conditions should be more to his liking and he will take the beating.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.00: This looks a weak handicap. Diana’s Choice should be good enough.

3.35: Dohasa failed to obtain a clear run when third to Diana’s Choice last time. Without such antics and providing Diana’s Choice has endorsed the form in the opener, Dohasa should make appropriate amends.

4.10: Snaafy and Noble Citizen are closely matched on their running here two weeks ago. It would be no surprise to see Snaafy confirm the form as he overcame plenty of obstacles to win. There is just the suspicion however that the race was run at a suicidal pace and played into the hands of a finisher. This is not an event to get heavily involved in but Jonquil’s second to Yamal last time is solid and I am hoping he will reward a small each-way investment.

4.45: Fiery Lad is taken to edge out Strategic News here, although on some form lines Big Robert could be given a chance at a price.

5.20: Warsaw seems a better horse on dirt, where things happen a shade slower and he seemed much more at home on this surface when winning last time.

5.50: Not much went right for Bankable towards the end of last year. He was almost certainly over the top when only sixth on his last run for Luca Cumani but, on his second to Eagle Mountain, he would win this. With the trip looking inadequate for both Macarthur and King’s Gambit, Red Eye Express may provide the biggest threat as he failed to stay last time when strongly fancied. it could be significant that Bankable may have changed stables but not owner. He is worth another chance.

6.20: Deem and Front House are closely matched in this.

6.55: Via Galilei was unlucky not to finish closer last time and could be the answer to the concluding handicap.

According To Dick and Bankable are suggested as the best prospects on the day.


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Thursday 19th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.00 Under Review should get favourite punters off to an appropriate start.

4.05: There should be little between Back In The Red and This Ones For Eddy based on their last meeting. If there is an interloper, it could be Imprimis Tagula who has been campaigned over the wrong trip whilst his rating has slid to a winnable level. Returned to six furlongs and racing off 73, he could go well at a price.

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS:

1.50: The fact Ravello Bay breaks blood vessels makes her a flimsy betting proposition. Win or lose, backing horses that burst will cost you money.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Cinematic got caught in the shadow of the post last time. An ideal race seems to have been found and if held on to for longer, on this quicker track he should be capable of striking late.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

This has not been an easy meet so far, but hopefully that can change today.

4.55: Moonquake handled the dirt surface like a natural last time and appeals physically as the sort that is only now filling his frame. He is closely weighted with Jack Junior (unlucky last time) and Trust N Dustan but is taken to record a narrow win from Jack Junior.

5.55: One of the secrets of success here is not to overace contenders. Gladiatorus, whose form with Calming Influence and Biarritz is solid and who broke the track record last time, has been given a month’s break and will line-up tonight relatively fresh. He faces a stiff test against Imbongi (not won over trip) and Summit Surge, with whom he is closely weighted through Calming Influence, but looks as if he can progress sufficiently to take this major prize.

6.25: Swop and Yamal may dominate here but it is a close call as, despite a good run here last time, Swop may be more effective with more juice in the ground.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Wednesday 18th Feb

To my mind this looks a tricky day. Picking out horses is not hard but there are reasons why some of them need a rethink.

LUDLOW RACING TIPS:

3.35: Despite appearing to be staying on last time, Working Title’s best form is undeniably over today’s trip of two miles. Chief Yeoman finished just behind him at Ascot last time and went on to run a big race on Saturday in a similar contest. However, apparently the Nicky Henderson yard has been hit hard by the weather, with most of their inmates missing work. For that reason confidence is reduced. The race appears between Working Title and the consistent King’s Revenge who will take advantage of any shortcomings in the likely favourite.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.00: Zero Cool is not straightforward, but in a race full of monkeys is presented with his best recent chance.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

6.50: Grimes Faith appears a reformed character and his form ties in with recent winners. However, his renaissance has occurred at Southwell so there must be a doubt whether it will be maintained on Polytrack. Giving the impression he needs to win on the snaff, it may be best to let him run tonight.

7.50: The trip may scupper King’s Head, whilst it will suit Quince providing there is a proper gallop.

8.20: According to my arithmetic, Emerald Wilderness has a 3lb weight turnround with Robby Bobby for a head. That ought to be enough, but Robby Bobby (despite a defeat by Kandidate on Sunday) may be improving and it would come as no surprise if he confirmed form. Emerald Wilderness has never been Mr Reliable.

So, not for the want of trying, comments rather than bets. Not what I am looking for either, but that is the way it appears to me…


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Tuesday 17th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

There are a couple of possibles at Southwell on what, once again, has to be referred to as a non-descript day.

3.00: Shining Gale is taken to concede weight to pint-sized West End Rocker. He looks more of a natural chaser, despite his tumble in hot company last time, and has every chance to get back on course today.

4.00: Somewhat more speculative is Along The Nile here. Although his best form over this code is at Musselburgh (was an intended runner at last week’s abandoned meeting), he has a record of going well left-handed. This sharp track should therefore suit and not faze him. Stamina is something of a worry but he is fit and seems reasonably weighted based on an excellent second last time to European Dream who ran well yesterday. We have to assume his stable has got the trip right.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Monday 16th Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.25: On the assumption that a mile-and-a-half will suit a match-fit and in form Diktatorship, he looks the one to beat in this second division of the amateur riders’ handicap.

4.40: Inside Story finally gets the trip likely to bring out the best in him. Following such horses over a cliff is not advisable and his attitude did look a tad suspect at Kempton last time, so it is a case of put and take. Today presents his best chance for some while (despite an unfavourable draw) with a possible revival from Penang Cinta feared.

MARKET RASEN RACING TIPS:

3.10: Bench Warrent is apparently fancied from a stable in good form at present.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Sunday 15th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

There are one or two interesting contenders on this card that deserve consideration at least:

3.00: This Ones For Eddy turned in a good effort in a competitive race on Thursday – his first run after a forty day break – doing his best work at the end of the five furlong dash over this course. This extra furlong should suit.

4.00: Formation looks likely to be a warm order here. However, he has no form on Fibresand and this race may not be as simple as it appears. The one contender with a proven record on the equivalent of dirt is Kandidate, a winner at Nad Al Sheba last February on that surface from a 10lbs higher mark. Worryingly, he was tailed off behind Formation last time, but that was on Polytrack. Even at the age of seven, he cannot be ruled out of this. He is the class act.

4.30: Eastern Aura created a favourable impression on his debut when second in what looked like a good race. The winner, Mulamaashi, is well thought of and Eastern Aura was one of three in the event that looked booked for future success. Mark Johnston rarely, if ever, runs horses at Southwell that fail to handle the surface.   Leopardstown stages a cracking card for National Hunt enthusiasts but it is one I shall leave to those that know better.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Saturday 14th Feb

Today’s racing schedule is a bit like the old saying: You wait an hour for a bus to come along only for eight to arrive all together. For me, the classy Ascot card and Lingfield look to present the best opportunities…

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

1.40: Belcantista has the right profile for a race such as this. His price is likely to contract throughout the morning though and I am very wary of taking on Dave’s Dream, a horse that has been described as a future Gold Cup winner by some of the more forward-thinking members of the powerful Henderson team. His inexperience may be his undoing today, but running him in such company suggests his trainer is not afraid to pitch him in at the deep end.

3.20: I can pass on a word here for Santia who appears to be in a race she can win.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.35: Greeness appeared to be the undoing of American Spin last time and he gets another chance here which, with that run under his belt, he looks capable of taking.

3.05: Any market interest in Alpes Maritimes should be heeded, but the signs are he is unlikely to return to form. Man Of Gwent was noted in running last time and in a competitive heat is taken to run well.

3.35: Titan Triumph, a last gasp loser at this track last time, has the weight pull with Red Somerset to reverse an unfortunate defeat into victory today.This small field should suit his style of racing.

4.45: Turn On The Style looks hard to oppose as he has so much in his favour. Harry Up will force the pace which will suit the selection, whilst it is extremely unlikely that Matsunosuke is capable of conceding weight to Turn On The Style,a winner in Dubai this time last year and a horse that shows no signs of losing his edge.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Friday 13th Feb

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

A tough card, likely to be run on very soft ground. Blazing Desert is fancied at a big price in the 4.20. He has a bit to find but did run his best race at this track and will benefit from this step up in trip. Hohlethelonely will be popular as he races minus a penalty. However, he won a poor race last week in bottomless ground and may find this coming a bit quickly. Whatever, with Blazing Desert we can afford to be wrong at the price.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.05: Count Ceprano is overdue a win. His fourth last week to Gallantry when beaten two lengths puts this course and distance winner in here with every chance. There is no guarantee that Capricorn Run will repeat the form he showed last time and Southandwest seems to have gone off the boil, so a winnable event.

4.40: Canadian Danehill seems reasonably treated and is taken to recover winning ways after a big effort last time.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH

Thursday 12th Feb

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.40: Returned to a mile, Inside Story has his optimum trip and conditions and deserves serious consideration. Tactics of running him over an inadequate six and seven furlongs have failed to fool the handicapper, but a mark of 63 means Inside Story (similar chance to Salt Of The Earth on the book) is in with a solid chance.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

1.50: United Nations ought to be good enough in this seller, particularly returning to Southwell where he has such a good record.

3.35: This looks a tight race. There is a word for Figaro Flyer who, having banged his head on the stalls last time, may be capable of improving on that run. Back In The Red and This Ones For Eddy (should be suited by trip) look dangers.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.15: Green Coast returns to his best trip. There was no disgrace in being beaten last time by My Indy.

4.55: Godolphin’s good run looks set to continue here as they field the front two in the market. City Style ought to be up to the task, but if not Jose Adan looks an able deputy.

5.30: Likely to be a short price, J J The Jet Plane is apparently hard to oppose. 6.05: Although not so cut and dried, once again the Godolphin pair, Desert Party and Vineyard Haven, appear to monopolise the UAE 2000 Guineas.

6.40: Kirkless does not face a straightforward task here. At the weights, his stable companion, With Interest does beat him. Add the unknown quantity of Barbaricus into the mix and this may be an event to sit out.


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Wednesday 11th Feb

 

It looks like something of a dead day and one I can shed little light on.

The 2.40 at Lingfield looks as if it may go to an unraced contender as those we have seen in action look of limited ability. After Coldplay’s victories at the Grammy’s, the topical tip has to be Viva la Vida but that is nothing more than speculation.   I hope to provide some inspiration for tomorrow’s cards at Nad Al Sheba.


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Tuesday 10th Feb

There are two possibilities today:

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

3.50: Xpress Maite has a major chance at the weights of overturning recent form with Ingelby Arch. The race should be run to suit him.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.10: No prizes for originality here, but Woodcote has an obvious chance in a seller on his recent second to a revitalised Grimes Faith.   Advice is to tread carefully at present. We are approaching the busy time of the year, and pretty soon it should be all systems go.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH

Monday 9th Feb

A poor start to the week and a day I am intent on swerving. Hopefully, there will be more to come as the week gathers pace.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday 8th Feb

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

2.10: Leo The Lion is likely to be a short price after a promising debut run. It is hard to assess the value of the form but he showed enough to encourage the belief he can win today.

2.40: It is surprising to see Quince racing over 1m 3f considering he was staying on over 1m 5f last time. He is worth watching with an eye to the future when returned to a more suitable trip.

 3.40: Premio Loco is hard to oppose. Last time he beat subsequent winners, Red Somerset and Capricorn Run with a fancied Whistledownwind in fourth. Bonus is capable of testing him but at the age of nine it seems he has reached his plateau. Orchard Supreme ought to beat Councellor on recent form but is not that reliable so that cannot be assumed. Fifth in the Cambridgeshire, Premio Loco is the logical selection today.

5.10: For those still in the game at this late hour on a Sunday, Mistress Cooper is becoming well handicapped. Her best form is at the minimum trip and for that reason, a bit like Quince, she has to be watched today. This quick six may suit, but a reasonable run may tee her up for a win next time if reverting to her optimum


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Saturday 7th Feb

 

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

12.40: Tinagoodnight is fancied by her stable to kick off a card many of us thought was unlikely to take place. Considered a Cheltenham horse at one stage, she faces a much easier task than any Festival target in this.

1.10: Turkish Surprise remains a horse his stable believe will scale the heights. This is a winnable race for him and he should deliver today if he is the horse they believe him to be.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

4.10: Gallantry has a chance of regaining the winning thread in this. A valuable 3lbs allowance from a capable rider puts him on a winning mark.

4.45: There is a message for Geese A Laying here. Beaten a country mile on his debut, that was at Southwell; the assumption being he failed to handle the surface. A much more prominent showing is expected on the Polytrack.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Friday 6th Feb

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

Stages an interesting but tough card tonight. However, there are a few betting opportunities, the best of which to my mind appears in the:

5.05: Biarritz ran well under tender handling when third in January behind Gladiatorus and Calming Influence. With Jay Peg and Bruges [ran well yesterday] down the field, that is beginning to look like a solid contest. On the assumption that Biarritz can improve for the run, his first since last summer, it seems reasonable to expect him to go close today. Whatever Kings Gambit achieves, he will surely be better over a couple of extra furlongs.

 4.30: In a much more speculative vein, Plavius may prove to be in a similar mould to last year’s winner, Jalil. A well publicised expensive yearling, he has scored twice on dirt since being transferred to the UAE. A powerful sort, he looks a dirt horse and although he will need to raise his game, may represent value for those brave enough to take a chance.

5.40: Not many races are run over this trip at this track. This is not a race to dwell on but I am tempted to think, at the weights, Young Mick may have his day in the sun – or moon as it will be local time.

6.45: Kal Barg may ring down the curtain on the meeting. He finished second to Alexandros last time in a race sending out mixed messages. But we know he is fit, whereas Russian Sage is having his first run at the carnival and his best form seems to be over further.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

On a somewhat speculative day, American Spin may take the 7.20 at Wolverhampton. An easy winner from the versatile Dontpaytheferryman on his second start, he was a most promising third to Mr Napper Tandy at Newmarket as a juvenile. We are flying in the face of the bounce factor here, but his mark of 75 is tempting ad he may justify a small stake. He looks well-treated.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Thursday 5th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

4.00: With the Jamie Osborne stable on a current high, Amber Moon, second on his previous visit here, looks primed to get off the mark in a poor contest.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: No prizes for nominating Dansant in this, but he should win.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

4.45: Bound To Honour looks the best bet on the card and the day. A Group performer in South Africa, his comeback effort over an inadequate trip last time behind Alexandros reinforced his well being and commitment. Squeezed for room on the inner, he was battling on in dogged style and that run should have sharpened him up for a tilt over this more suitable trip.

6.15: There are no fitness worries about Munaddam after his latest win over Leandros. There may be little between them again but Munaddam’s overall record at this track could give him the edge. Imbongi may just need this and Hatta Fort – arguably unlucky last time – may still have something to find on the selection.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Wednesday 4th Feb

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.00: Quince should be suited by a step up in trip to 1m 5f and on balance his form exceeds that of claiming level. From a yard in form, he should be hard to beat and is seen as the best opportunity of the day.

1.00: Lacrosse turned in a promising debut when not beaten far over course and distance. Normal improvement should be good enough to see him off the mark here.

3.35: Satwa Street is not a confident selection, but has an 8lb weight pull with Five Star Junior for less than a length. Overhauled close home by Hellbender – who split the two – that represents solid form. There is just a suspicion that Satwa Street may be better suited by five furlongs, but if held up he may be capable of nailing Five Star Junior close home in a race that appears to concern just the two runners.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 3rd Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

Hardly a card to get excited about; however, two horses appear interesting.

1.40: World of Choice gets a step up in trip, which looks likely to suit. A couple of spins round this track confirm he handles the surface. From a stable not adverse to a tilt at the ring, any market move should be heeded. Last year’s winner, Cragganmore Creek, is a reliable sort at this level but looks as if he wants further nowadays.

3.10: On a similar straw-clutching theme, Spiritual Healing takes the eye. Far from disgraced on debut at Lingfield, this Invincible Spirit filly has a pedigree that gives her every chance of handling this unique surface. It may also be significant that Martin Dwyer makes the trek to Southwell for two rides for Jamie Osborne. It is hard to make a case for the other runner so if there is a plot, it looks like it would be Spiritual Healing.


January Archive Free Racing tips from Spy


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JANUARY


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 17th 2009

A cracking day’s racing in prospect today – the best of the year so far. However, not every race promises to offer betting opportunities although the day is bursting with interest…

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

12.30: Price aside, Zaynar does not look opposable here, particularly after the win of Walkon at Chepstow. Apparently he is not the sweetest of horses at home, but Mike Tyson did not win prizes out of the ring either.

1.05: This is a typical tricky handicap. Working Title will be suited by this return to a shorter trip. He was travelling very well at Kempton before running out of stamina over 2m 5f last time. However, I am prepared to take a small chance with Group Captain who seems to reserve his best for this track. Although rated 142, with his rider’s claim, he only carries 10st 8lbs and is a sporting alternative to some better-touted rivals.

1.40: Calgary Bay has a small penalty to overcome and may find things happening too quickly for him in this with the flamboyant Free World in the field. I suggest it is a race to watch.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

1.20: Snap Tie ought to confirm his improvement here but is not a betting proposition at the price and on desperate ground

3.00: One horse that will cope with conditions is Turkish Surprise. He created a favourable impression on his debut in this country at Ascot when second to Deep Purple. Said to be a possible for top honours later in the season, he will be better left-handed, has improved since Ascot and is capable of causing an upset.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.50: Sunset Boulevard deserves another chance here. Posted wide last time when only beaten a little over a length, this was his second promising effort after a period on the sidelines. Dropped 2lbs since, this looks harder but he is worth an interest.

4.00: Ability has never been the problem for Titan Triumph. The twists and turns of Lingfield suit him as they seem to keep his mind focused. He plays his hand late, so will need some luck in running but, receiving 20lbs from Atlantic Story means that even from 6lbs higher than his last win, he is at the right end of the weights. He has been given a break and looks poised to register the five-timer.

That is all from me until February 2nd/3rd as I am off on holiday today. I hope this column has been of help and  I intend to return refreshed and ready for the challenging months ahead. Take it easy…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY JANUARY 16th 2009

Once again there is little to get enthusiastic about today. The ground is likely to be very testing at Chepstow and Catterick; so any chance we do have is at Lingfield or Wolverhampton.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

12.50: Rapid City is in good form and should be capable of accounting for this step up in trip and his market rival, Ebert.

1.20: Theatre Street ran well enough on her debut to suggest she can get on the score-sheet here.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

9.20: Spectait did us a turn last time and looks poised to follow up. Tonight’s opposition looks weaker than those he encountered last week and he should win. However, he displayed one or two issues that make one think he may not be a horse to take a short price about.

There won’t be any Track Notes today, but I shall be putting a Bush Telegraph on the site for tomorrow’s racing prior to a fortnight’s holiday.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JANUARY 15th 2009

Today’s domestic cards are frightful, at least to my mind. It is a little early to bet at Nad Al Sheba but without doubt they stage the best card of the day and a couple of runners are of interest.

5.30: Brave Tin Soldier has already opened his account in the desert this season. That was on dirt and being by Storm Cat it could be that is where his future lies. He returns to turf tonight which might compromise his chance. In any event, Estrela Do Oriente looks a potential blot on the handicap.

6.05: Royal Vintage returns to a theatre he excelled in last season. Although accused of being a weak finisher, he is more effective over this mile trip. We know he handles this surface and a couple of battles with Honour Devil last year puts him in this with a favourite’s chance. The one to keep an eye on is Happy Boy, who looked so good on his debut on this surface at last year’s carnival and is another returning to a surface likely to bring out the best in him.

6.40: If there is a bet there tonight it must surely be Sugar Ray. His form with Sixties Icon and Mad Rush stands out here, and this good ground will suit him admirably. He looks set for a good carnival.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14th 2009

 

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

The prospect of some excellent racing here today. First up in the 12.50 is Mount Helicon. An expensive failure at this course on debut, he reportedly blew up on the run-in when just caught and will strip fitter now. It is too early to dismiss this high class French import who looks worth another chance.

1.20: Planet Of Sound impressed with his jumping over this course and distance last time and should follow up. He is athletic for a big horse and held in high regard by his stable.

1.25: This looks like a dry run for Cheltenham, with a top class line-up promised. There is little to choose between Cockney Trucker and Shoreacres on a line through Dee E Williams and they look likely to test Mad Max. However, Mad Max was impressive at Ascot and although likely to be a short price today and therefor not a betting proposition, the manner of his victory suggests he could be something special.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.20: Faithful Ruler was a staying-on third to Spectiat last time in a more competitive event and this extra trip may bring out the best in him. He races from the same mark and is taken to boost that form.

KEMPTON RACONG TIPS:

8.50: Rock Anthem could win this, but the worry is that all his best form has been achieved at Southwell. His narrow defeat by United Nations from the same mark is solid but, as a horse that has experienced training problems, there is a danger this much quicker track could find him out.

9.20: Cut And Thrust gets a chance to build on his latest success with the defection of Mr Willis.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JANUARY 13th 2009

Nothing takes the eye today. The drums are silent!


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY JANUARY 11th 2009

There are no selections today…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 10th 2009

It is hard to be confident about anything on a cobbled together day like this:

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

Looks the best card where Commandingpresence ought to be good enough in the 1.45.

The 2.50 looks tricky. Turn On The Style will presumably make the running which could suit the fast-finishers, Aeroplane and Bonus. However, an uncomplicated sort, Turn On The Style may have too much pace for the other two, both of whom are coming back in trip. This does represent a step up in grade for Turn On The Style though, so it probably is a race to watch. Personally, I am not convinced this trip of six furlongs will suit Aeroplane but I am not about to pay to find out.

So no bet from me today…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY JANUARY 9th 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.00: In a tight knit contest, Barwell Bridge is fancied and will be suited by the step up in trip.

4.00: Sunset Boulevard looks one of the most interesting prospects on the day. Shaping with promise in December [his first run since May] when fifth to Valdan and the in-form Epsom Salts, little improvement is required to win this. Successful over course and distance, he races from an all-time low mark of 63. He has the look of a potential gamble and is worth taking a small chance with.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

3.05: Nightjar is in excellent shape at present and should win today. His current form is solid; but he is booked for favouritism here and undeniably his best form is at Southwell. For that reason I would advise against getting carried away.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JANUARY 8th 2009

I am inclined to give today amiss, especially after yesterday’s success.   Silvanus should appreciate the return to five furlongs in the 1.55 at GREAT LEIGHS. However, he is not the most resolute of characters.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

At SOUTHWELL, I have had a silly side bet with my racing sidekick that in the 2.50 United Nations will beat Transmission. At stake (should that be steak?) is a meal. United Nations is in the peak of form, whereas I feel Transmission is only running to beat a reassessed mark that kicks in from Saturday. Beaten by Mambo Sun on Monday, Transmission may struggle even on revised terms to overturn form with United Nations. The presence of the Irish contender, Redwater River further complicates the race though. A winner on heavy ground, there is every reason to believe he will handle this surface.   So, not for the want of trying, no bet from this quarter today.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 7th 2009

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

4.20: Everything seems to be in place for a big run from Spectiat today. Bought to go hurdling, he proved a non-stayer and with the exception of a his debut win at Aintree made little impact out over timber. Reverting to the Flat, he has gradually been finding his form. Last time he finished fifth at Southwell (a track that would not have suited) in a race that was unusually strong. Seventh placed Xpres Maite won yesterday, whilst the winner has won since and Councellor is a solid yardstick. Spectiat may not be as good as he was, but did win off 95 when with Sir Mark Prescott and is now racing off 78. On a fast surface and over a trip that is ideal, today is his day if he is to win a race of this description. William Hill’s price of 15/2 this morning looks generous.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

4.25: Luckier, from a stable in form, has the profile of an improving filly and has apparently been working well. She is the one to beat here and can provide the second leg of an ambitious double today.

King Of Cadeaux (3.50 Wolverhampton), who will appreciate this step up in trip, and Wine N’ Dine (Kempton) may be worth including in multiple bets but essentially, on  what may have looked like a quiet day, SPECTIAT and LUCKIER are considered as bets you should not let run.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JANUARY 6th 2009

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

3.50: Terminate is a guaranteed stayer against opponents that may struggle. For that reason he is taken to as the most likely winner.

SOUTHWELL

1.10: Mambo Sun last run behind United Nations may be misleading to a degree but it did receive a boost on Sunday.

3.40: Not many horses rack up three straight wins at Southwell (or any of the other all-weather tracks) but the right opportunity does seem to have been for Charles Parnell here.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY JANUARY 5th 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

Just one horse worthy of a mention from this quarter today:

2.45: Hellbender is in good form and looks the one to beat here.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 3rd 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

With racing looking increasingly doubtful at Sandown, and very difficult in any case, Lingfield looks like the meeting to concentrate on…

1.10: The last run of Slip can be excused as he patently failed to stay the trip. Dropped in distance and grade, he ought to win today.

1.45: Whistledownwind is taken to beat Premio Loco. The selection has had his career sabotaged by a ridiculous campaign that included races run over trips beyond him. Now with Jeremy Noseda, he has faced more realistic targets and he could be called an unlucky loser on his last run over seven. In the belief they will not crawl around this mile today, conditions should be ideal and this one time Classic aspirant can recover winning ways.

3.25: Pevensey is the best treated horse in this and is a selection to win a tight contest. Grande Caiman is in great form but faces a tough task from a mark of 104. Group Captain could provide the biggest danger.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

4.40: A drop in grade should suit Jake the Snake who goes well for a lady rider.   Slip and Whistledownwind look the bets of the day


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY JANUARY 2nd 2009

Little, of any interest today. Quite what cards like these are supposed to achieve as far as the betting public is concerned is debatable.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

More to demonstrate I have done some work than anything else, it may be worth keeping an eye on Fifty Cents in the 7.50 at Wolverhampton. A one-time possible for Listed events when with Roger Charlton, the horse has subsequently changed yards and not been seen for some time. The intriguing factor today though is that Steve Drowne, his regular partner when the horse was housed at Beckhampton, rides, suggesting perhaps the horse is expected to run well.

Not every day offers proper opportunities and this is the best I can come up with under the circumstances. Maybe a day to catch up on admin or do some shopping!


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JANUARY 1st 2009

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS

1.05: After two excellent efforts at this track this year over trips short of his best, Alexanderthegreat gets his chance over a more suitable three miles plus. Such a fact has not gone unnoticed and his price is miserly.

1.40: Tartak is taken to beat two unconvincing rivals in Kicks For Free and Calgary Bay. On the assumption three miles stretched his stamina last time, Tartak has his chance at this level today.

2.10: This is a tough race but Private Be appears to be heading in the right direction and could be worth chancing.

3.20: The stable are confident Franchoek will regain winning ways today. I wonder if we saw the best of him last year. He does have to concede weight to the useful Five Dream and whilst respecting the message, it is not one I shall act on.

3.55: Similarly, Steptoe is fancied here but I am no lover of bumpers, believing you will lose by betting on them in the long run, and will be leaving this alone.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

1.35: Back to 1m 6f will suit Dart who is taken to beat fully exposed types.

Not an easy start to the year: I suggest Tartak and Private Be, both at Cheltenham, may represent our best chance. For those considering multiple bets (where the price is not so crucial if a horse wins) then Alexanderthegreat could be included.