RACING NOTEBOOK
Based on races viewed, Spy’s list of horses worthy of serious consideration next time:
December 20th:
Ascot Results
It didn’t take Nicky Henderson long to get on the score sheet.
Back in action after a pottery round of chasing at Kempton, Royal Boy, third in the Tolworth in January, cruised to victory in the Class 3 over 2m 6f from stable mate Big Hands Harry and Pleasant Company.
Responsible for the first two and the fourth, the Henderson stable is currently flying.
Irving is gradually working his way up the novice ladder. Useful in Germany, he took the Grade 2 but it would have been tight had not Prince Siegfried crashed out at the last when holding every chance.
Volnay de Thaix suffered a rare reversal at present for the Henderson yard when only second (would have finished third). This assignment was much harder than the two he has so far faced (particularly the egg-and-spoon contest he was gifted at Newbury last time).With easy Aintree winner, Splash Of Ginge a close third, this has to be regarded as strong form.
Coming back in trip (2m 3f), Fox Appeal, who was second in November to the smart Wonderful Charm at Wincanton, came clear of a couple of useful opponents in Raya Star and Mr Mole in the Grade 2 chase.
December 18th
Newbury Racing
Apparently unfancied by his stable when only fourth on debut behind Calipto, Actival and Chocala at this track on Hennessy Friday, Dawalan was very much the market order in the Class 4 hurdle this time round.
Very well-bred – related to several high class members of the Aga Khan’s dynasty – Dawalan only had to be shaken up to win in the manner of a stayer rather than a quickener. His jumping was sketchy early but he did warm to the task, although he gave the second-last plenty of air. This was probably not a strong novice event.
In second, Rayak came into this with only routine form. In third,Certification looks a useful recruit (J P Ferguson has several rejects from Mark Johnston, all of whom have acquitted themselves with promise over hurdles). They finished at long intervals, which, on soft ground that became softer as more rain fell, was to become a feature of the day.
Josses Hill became another winner for the Henderson yard when pulling away on the run-in in the Class 4 for older horses. This was his first effort over timber and it augers well for the future.
Communicator was another to please on his hurdling debut. Proven on soft ground on the Flat, he jumped well enough and saw his race out. He should open his account before too long.
In third, having occupied the same position to Wilde Blue Yonder last month, Tiqris lends credence to the worth of the race. A Hare Breath was fourth – it was then twenty-five lengths back to the next finisher.
Hadrian’s Approach, an early causality in the Hennessy, was nursed round by Barry Geraghty to beat three rivals in the Class 2 graduation chase. Jumping may not be the horse’s strong suit, but on a day when the Henderson stable shone, the jockey ought to take his fair share of the credit.
The Henderson/Geraghty combination was narrowly denied a four-timer when Tistory was run out of the Class 4 novice on the run-in by Brother Brian.
December 13th:
Cheltenham Results
Oscar Whisky may have won the Class 2 novice chase but the plaudits have to go to Wonderful Charm, who was conceding 8lbs.
They dominated from the start, pulling well clear of their three rivals although Close House was in touch in third before taking a heavy fall at the top of the hill. With little between the two main protagonists at the last, they jumped it well but the weight sealed it in Oscar Whisky’s favour.
They are two smart chasers in the making, although, both Jewson-bound, Wonderful Charm appeals as the better prospect.
The Skyfarmer racked up his fourth straight win in the Class 3 handicap hurdle – his first venture outside novice company. His present rating of 123 will be adjusted but he looks a decent prospect.
Lyvius tested him in second, the pair well clear of their rivals. Obviously their fates rest with the assessor but they were certainly much better than today’s rivals.
Hennessy third, Theatre Guide looked to have his rivals stone cold for most of the way in the Grade 3 handicap – a lesser contest than Newbury’s showpiece two weeks ago. Only raised 2lbs, he jumped well throughout but the writing was on the wall at the last when he was joined by strong-travelling Monbeg Dude.
Unable to quicken, possibly Theatre Guide needs even further than today’s extended three miles to be seen at his best. Monbeg Dude is no slouch and in receipt of 9lbs, it was no disgrace for him to beat the runner-up.
The winner’s target is the Grand National. Sixteen lengths away in third, Pigeon Island is now racing from a reasonable mark although needs his sights to be lowered
Sunnyhillboy rolled back the years when benefitting from a vintage McCoy drive in the Class 2 handicap hurdle.
The runs of the Philip Hobbs trained duo, Return Spring and So Fine in second and third, further underlines the cracking current form of the stable.
Garde La Victoire certainly looks the part and his first defeat over hurdles in the Class 3 should not be taken too literally. A steady early gallop was not ideal and although he powered to the front at the turn, Ballyalton ran him down on the sprint to the line.
The runner-up – who still has something to learn – will get two-and-half on his head. We saw two nice novices here, both of whom are likely to return for the Festival.
The run of Cocktails At Dawn, who finished third after a year’s absence, suggests he is a winner in waiting.
December 14th:
Cheltenham Results
Winner of a Ludlow claimer, Ballyglasheen created a shock in the Triumph Hurdle Trial, achieving form that so far did not seem on his radar.
After a searching pace, he joined issue at the last and toughed it out. Despite winning an egg and spoon event at Sandown which told us little, Kentucky Hyden had the best credentials based on three spins on soft ground in France. He tried hard to peg the winner back, but in what became an uphill walk to the line was narrowly thwarted.
Hurdling debutant Commissioned shaped well in third. Lightly raced on the Flat, he hurdled proficiently in the main and should open his account soon. Vicenzo Mio travelled like the winner for a long way but failed to quicken from the last.
It was a case of perm any one of three in the four-horse novice chase. The three principals had met last time with
Shutthefrontdoor seemingly handed the best chance today at revised weights. Sloppy jumping on the last circuit when the pace upped meant he was the first beaten.
That left Sam Winner and penalised Le Bec to scrap it out – Sam Winner emerging the better, opening his fencing account under attritional circumstances.
Eastlake is developing into a reliable and consistent handicapper. Rated 140, he jumped well and stuck on gamely from the last to win the Grade 2 handicap from French Opera and Astracad. Not many in the field appeal as well-handicapped and it could be life will be tough for Eastlake from here on. However, he does have the right attitude and looks ready for a step up in class.
Only a five-year-old, Kings Palace is beginning to look like a horse brimming with promise after an all-the-way beating of his rivals in the Grade 2 over three miles.
Being picky, it is easy to poke holes in the form of his win. With his nearest market rivals, Saint Roque (looked as if this run came too quickly after last week’s Sandown effort and suffered a tired fall at the last), and Milan Bound never able to land a blow, in beating the rank outsider, Masters Hill, the bare reading does the winner no favours.
However, it does not tell the full story. Kings Palace is an accomplished jumper that makes it all look effortless. He could be top class one day either over hurdles or fences – if not both.
Double Ross took the Grade 3 handicap chase on his sixth start over fences. Despite a mistake, he came back to clear away and then appeared to falter on the run-in. Cantlow closed in second (another to recover from a jolting error and arguably unlucky), ahead of Colour Squadron, who was undone by a 7lbs rise since finishing second in the Paddy Power. He is yet to win over fences.
The cream rose to the top in the Grade 2 hurdle, The New Oneproducing the finishing kick when it mattered to defy a gallant Zarkandar, who rallied on the run-in.
The New One only did what the form book suggested he should have done (certainly over two miles) and Zarkandar (better over two-and-a-half) has run to form in second. The winner is now a fair enough favourite for the Champion Hurdle.
Not for the first time, More Of That impressed – this time in the Grade 2 Relkeel Hurdle. With only three rivals, including French Champion Hurdle winner Gemix (hopelessly at sea over these hurdles), once again, his class was obvious. Slipstreaming Salubrious, he picked him up with something to spare. He continues to progress and, like Kings Palace, is another on the day we have yet to see the best of.
Royal Irish Hussar emptied very quickly at Doncaster in the Grade 2 novice hurdle, not looking the same horse we saw last time at Cheltenham. Making the running as usual, the writing was on the wall some way out. Rather than find his second wind, this time he faded away tamely.
Fox Norton, a neck behind Royal Irish Hussar at Market Rasen before the winner of that day began his upward climb to potential stardom, held on narrowly from hurdling debutant Broughton – another ex-Mark Johnston inmate from the Flat that has joined the Ferguson stable and looks to have a future at this game.
Saturday December 7th:
Sandown Results
Vaniteux’ s win over Vibrato Valtat in the novice hurdle represented smart form.
The runner-up, looking all set to collect when popping the last and apparently in command, had previously finished eleven lengths behind Quick Jack in a competitive Cheltenham handicap. However, under a confident ride Vaniteux quickened in the style of a smart recruit on the run-in, winning with plenty in hand. He looks like another powerful addition to the Henderson yard.
Saphir Du Rheu, the only four-year-old in the line-up, routed the opposition in the Class 2 Pertemps qualifier over 2m 6f. With Home Run and Whisper filling the places (although tagged by the handicapper they are useful sorts), this had the makings of a solid event.
The way the winner cruised to the front and then dispensed with his rivals indicates this step up in trip has brought about plenty of improvement. Currently rated 130 – a mark about to become history – he could be a cut above this level and will likely stay three miles.
The Henry VIII Chase, the first of the Grade 1’s, went to experienced novice Hinterland. Second to Captain Conan in this event last year, he maintained his jumping whilst several fiddled away their chances. Ultimately the best hurdler in the field, Grandouet, provided the biggest challenge. A faller on debut, he handled these fences well. Taquin Du Seuil never looked that happy. On this evidence he found the trip too sharp and probably the ground too lively. A mistake on the far-side did not help, but he did not look an Arkle winner today.
After the run of Vibrato Valtat in the opener, Deep Troublefurther franked the Quick Jack form with an extraordinary win in the Listed handicap.
Scything through the field in smooth fashion, he apparently had events under control approaching the last until running down the hurdle, drifting right across the track and leaving his rider without irons.
In gathering him together and keeping him going, this was a great effort from Leighton Aspell. Urbain De Sivola posted a promising first run of the season in second ahead of harshly weighted River Maigue, who needs the handicapper to relent somewhat.
Sire De Grugy had his day in the sun when grabbing the Tingle Creek. A slight fluff five out failed to stop him bearing down on his rivals at the Pond fence, after which he was soon in control.
This was probably him at his best at a track that suits. His record at Cheltenham ( where so far he has failed to shine) means, Sprinter Sacre or not, the Champion Chase may not be his race. Somersby ran on after a mistake five out to grab second from Captain Conan.
The last race – a class 2 handicap ambitiously called the London National – provided brutal viewing in one way or another. Won by There’s No Panic, it will go down as the last leg of a five-timer for the Paul Nicholls yard after two important wins at Aintree and three high-profile successes here.
Aintree Results
Dropped in trip to two miles, Splash Of Ginge made all, drawing clear down the straight in the maiden hurdle.
The opposition may not have been that strong (hurdling debutant Gabrial The Great finished very tired in second), but he was an emphatic winner.
The fairly exposed by now Gitane Du Berlais – behind Guitar Pete in Ireland – made the most of a soft opportunity to beat Mystery Drama in the Listed juvenile. Like the first winner, she made all without being seriously challenged. A clever piece of placing, her win pays credit to Royal Irish Hussar (who beat Guitar Pete with some ease at Cheltenham).
Course winner, Unioniste dished it out to more experienced rivals in the Listed chase. Only five, he made one slight error but in the end outstayed Wishfull Thinking.
Being honest, with The Giant Bolster unseating and Katenko, Our Mick and Wayward Prince all misfiring, it is tempting to wonder what the winner actually achieved. However, Unioniste obviously likes it here, stays and jumps pretty well and should be noted if back here fresh in April.
Friday December 6th:
Sandown Results
Lightly-raced on the Flat and easy winner of his only race over timber at Plumpton, Violet Dancer supplemented that success in the Class 3 novice hurdle.
He should not be dismissed in better company as despite a speedy pedigree, he seems to have taken to this game. His trainer – not normally one to claim his geese are swans – speaks highly of him.
Sweet Deal jumped well on his debut until a couple of novicey errors on the back. Always pushed along to get on terms, he finished a tired fourth.
Second to easy Newbury winner Valdez at Exeter, The Italian Yobdefied top weight and a mark of 125 in the Class 3 novice handicap. Feature of his win was an accomplished round of jumping – he never put a foot wrong. This asset will stand him in good stead in this sphere.
There may be another day for Royal Guardsman who, although no star, would have finished closer but for a couple of errors (one at the second-last that was bad enough to put him on the floor. He did well to recover and finish fourth). This was only his second attempt over the big obstacles and three miles round a lesser track should suit.
The Grade 2 novice hurdle looked a match between recent Cheltenham winner Saint Roque and impressive Ascot scorer Beat That.
Both were run down by Killala Quay, who was beaten in a tough handicap at Cheltenham last time and took advantage of a last flight blunder by Beat That. He may have won in any case.
Beat That is a lovely looking big son of Milan but he remains weak. It could be we will have to wait until next season for him to show his best. Without the luxury of being able to dictate in this better company, he was not slick or athletic enough when it mattered. He led approaching the last but landed on all fours, dropping back to third but rallying on the run-in.
Saint Roque made the running until headed before the last and on this occasion could only plug on. He looks more of a three mile chaser.
Only three turned out for the Class 1 chase, won by the outsider of the pack, Vino Griego. Despite a mistake two out, he had the pace to dismiss long time leader Rolling Aces, who jumps well enough but lacks a turn of foot.
Any chance Harry Topper had was sacrificed by a sequence of jumping errors.
Saturday November 30th:
Newbury Racing
The win of Valdez in the novice handicap was not without incident. With main market rival Black River exiting after a silly mistake on the far-side, and Flaming Charmer never managing a rhythm, despite running about, Valdez eventually drew clear for an easy win.
Obviously his mark of 135 is now shot on this his second win from as many outings over fences; but he still needs to prove he can mix it in a more competitive field. A quote of 20/1 for the Arkle is unlikely to tempt many.
The Grade 2 handicap hurdle was a typically competitive event.Vendor was hard to nominate, having shown little over hurdles or fences since finishing third in the 2012 Fred Winter behind Une Artiste.
However, apparently second-string behind Batonnier, he sprinted clear on the run-in to thwart long-time leader Shotavodka.
Don’t Be Late took the raise in class in stride to produce a spirited challenge from the last and Saphir Du Rheu was another to run above form so far shown in fourth.
Gassin Golf finished fifth after looking a danger to all early in straight. This extended two miles probably stretched his stamina.
Celestial Halo, something of a revelation over three miles in the twilight of his career, made all, drawing the sting from his three rivals in the Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle.
At Fishers Cross (unbeaten in six hurdles last season) was closing him down on the run to the second-last when a mistake put him out of contention. Unfortunately, having lost his undercarriage, it was the worst kind of error. He appeared to finish sore and having jumped tentatively throughout in any case, can only be watched next time.
Medinas, off the bridle for much of the last mile, plugged on for a distant second; Reve De Sivola was a never-travelling third.
Established form lines rose to the top in the Hennessy. Having finished third in the Grade 3 United House Gold Cup at Ascot and a winner of the Topham last season, aged only six, Triolo D’Alene – rated 147 – gained another big race for the powerful Nicky Henderson stable.
The two big jumping yards dominated the finish as Rocky Creek, representing Paul Nicholls – a stable that has been in fine form this week – roared back to his best in second.
The 4lbs he had to concede to the winner made the difference. Jumping well and perfectly positioned throughout, Rocky Creek was given every chance by the excellent Daryll Jacob. It remains to be seen where he can go next.
Theatre Guide ran the race of his life in third. Soft ground will probably bring out even more from him.
Highland Lodge (second to Standing Ovation at Wincanton) was fourth ahead of feasibly weighted Merry King – who stays well and could be the sort for something like the Welsh National.
Houblon Des Obeaux and Lord Windermere need to be cut slack from the assessor. After a year and nine months on the sidelines (last seen when winning the Reynoldstown in February 2012), Invictus travelled dangerously well for a long way, only fading in the last half mile. Well weighted at present, providing he comes out of this intact, he may be a different prospect next time.
Having derived benefit from his comeback attempt at Ascot earlier this month, Filbert rang down the curtain on the meeting with success in the Class 2 handicap chase.
Newcastle Racing
It was a case of back to business for My Tent Or Yours in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth at Newcastle. Although it is unlikely he was facing any serious Champion Hurdle rivals, he pinged his hurdles, winning with something in hand.
Much improved Cockney Sparrow was a game second ahead of Grumeti. The form of the Elite Hurdle is already looking shaky so it was no surprise that the winner of that, Melodic Rendezvous, was unable to break the trend – finishing a beaten-off fifth.
Friday November 29th:
Newbury Racing
The day started with a Class 3 hurdle that has a record of throwing up live Triumph Hurdle candidates.
Calipto, one of two to dominate the betting, had finished second in France on his hurdling debut and travelled with a ease throughout here, pouncing at the last to win comfortably.
This performance left his trainer enthusing, suggesting Calipto is still inexperienced and that there will be no rushed campaign – the Triumph not being the all-important target. Apparently Calipto may reappear at Cheltenham in January.
Actival, another French import that had won on his solitary outing, plugged on for second.
Chocala, for whom there was a strong word on-course, made most of the running, jumping well in the main, but he was unable to resist the winner’s thrust.
The well-bred Dawalan looked a touch one-paced back in fourth; the rest were well beaten.
For much of the Pertemps Hurdle qualifier, first Western Warhorse then Twelve Roses looked likely winners.
Bowling along in front, Western Warhorse looked comfortable in control on the turn but was soon treading water. On this first attempt at three miles, the inescapable conclusion is he failed to stay.
Strong-travelling Twelve Roses lasted longer but looked very tired from two out and eventually struggled home for fourth. His run, from a mark of 130, pays some tribute to More Of That who beat him last time.
Mickie quickened from the last to pick up the pieces ahead of Pateese and Red Not Blue. Sketchy hurdling form Chiberta King, an improved campaigner on the Flat last season, scuppered his chances.
Beforehand, it appeared the key horse in the Grade 2 novice chase was The Romford Pele, who was third last time at Cheltenham to Taquin Du Souil and Oscar Whisky.
Sponsored by Fuller’s (the brewers), one could be forgiven for thinking The Romford Pele had partaken some of their product. He was an accident waiting to happen over his fences, although despite blundering his way round, he did complete.
Up To Something made a bold attempt to make all, but once again it was a Paul Nicholls-trained contender (ably assisted by Daryll Jacob who has risen to the challenge as No 1 jockey for this high-profile yard), Wonderful Charm that proved too good. His jumping was not without the odd fault, but he travelled strongly enough and came up when it mattered.
It was a rough-and-tumble day for punters. They plunged on Sign Of A Victory in the closing novice hurdle. Stepping beyond bumpers for the first time, Sign Of A Victory looked the possible winner approaching the second-last but a novice mistake slammed the door in his face.
Allowed to coast home in fourth, with this run behind him he should go close next time. Wilde Blue Yonder survived a similar hurdling incident to the favourite when holding off Seedling and Tiqris.
Thursday November 28th:
Newbury Racing
Winner of two hurdles in France and at Kempton on debut here,Volnay De Thaix only had to jump round to win a very poorly contested novice, in which ultimately, third and fourth failed to stay.
This left The Master Remover to chase home the winner, but basically, with the winner in a different league, this was two races in one.
Backed to win, Top Dancer jumped very well in the Class 3 amateur riders’ chase. Connections may be tempted to bring him out swiftly next week at Sandown for a similar contest and where the booking of today’s rider, Mr J J Codd, would be an added bonus. A current mark of 114 seems to underestimate Top Dancer’s ability.
Bohemian Rhapsody travelled like the winner throughout in the Class 4 novice handicap.
Moving ominously closer he struck the front approaching two out, but an error at the last probably cost him success. Fourth in the November Handicap at Doncaster, this was an accomplished bid from a four-year-old who should win a decent handicap over hurdles this season. His current mark of 110 will rise, but even so he should remain competitive.
Beforehand the Grade 2 novice chase looked a match between Just A Par and Third Intention.
On his second outing over the big obstacles, Just A Par, who was bought from Ireland for the price of two Ferraris, made just about all. Despite his racing experience, Just A Par looked green, but he never made a semblance of a mistake and eventually drew right away.
Very likeable, Just A Par is classy and although he may take time to peak (he is only six), he looks a potential top-notcher.
In second, the more experienced Third Intention (conceding 7lbs) was quickly put in his place down the straight. Rated 151, a literal (and doubtless misleading) interpretation of this form gives the winner a mark in the region of 160.
More success for the Nicholls yard in the next as Easter Day put his Chepstow chasing debut on fast ground into perspective with a proper win from a mark of 135.
Jumping like a veteran, he cruised into the lead approaching the second-last and is another useful recruit to the chasing ranks. The more experienced Whats Happening (winner of two chases in Ireland) was outpointed but should make his mark in less exacting company.
Benefitting from different riding tactics, in the listed handicap registered as the Gerry Feilden, Ifandbutwhynot made all the running from what was, on his best form at least, a slightly lenient mark of 133.
Chatterbox loomed large but apparently an abscess meant he had missed work so probably blew up. This was only his fourth run over hurdles and there should be more to come from him.
Looking in fine trim, Puffin Billy ran a tame race. Although weighted to his best, he was entitled to do better. It is not the first time he has disappointed.
Saturday November 23rd:
Haydock Results
In the Class 2 Intermediate Hurdle, Far West did not exactly endorse the Elite Hurdle form when he had chased home Melodic Rendezvous.
Handed every chance as his rivals made fiddly mistakes, Far West turned for home travelling as well as any. His effort soon fizzled out though and it was disappointing he only beat outsider Morning Royalty.
Although well behind Far West in the Triumph, Rolling Starreappeared looking a totally different prospect. Much stronger now, despite a couple of careless errors (nothing serious) he knuckled down over the last two to win with authority.
More brilliance from McCoy saw a cosy win in the end for More Of That, who was never travelling better than on the run-in in the Class 2 handicap.
Galvanised from an impossible position, he quickened away to confirm the impression gained last time at Wetherby that he is well above average and ahead of the handicapper.
Blue Fashion and Special Catch were left floundering once the winner began his run.
A week before the Hennessy, we had the best staying chase of the season in the Grade 1 Betfair Chase and time for many of us to eat our words.
Cue Card ran the opposition ragged to win his first event over an extended three miles. Always jumping quickly and fluently, Cue Card put his rivals to the sword one by one. Down the straight, just when those of us that expected him to fold, Cue Card found more.
First Silviniaco Conti then Dynaste were shrugged off. When a horse with Cue Card’s natural ability can nurture his speed over a trip, he will always be dangerous and this was the story now. So next stop the King George at Kempton.
In only his second season over fences, Dynaste ran a great race in such elevated company and there will be another day. Silviniaco Conti ran as well as ever. His best form is on flat tracks and on this evidence it is hard to make a case out for him winning a Gold Cup.
After such a poor showing last time, Long Run was an uncomplicated fourth. The rest were not good enough; only Bobs Worth ran below expectations. With hindsight, this track was against him. Even so, he faded tamely. He needs a stiffer test of stamina and should not be written off just yet.
Ascot Results
Al Ferof beat solitary rival French Opera in a farcical turn-out for the Grade 2 chase. In a virtual school-round, he jumped the better, but he does have an alarming habit of guessing on occasion, something he will not get away with against better company.
The weight concession greatly aided Annie Power to retain an unbeaten hurdle record in the Grade 2.
Zarkandar stuck on gamely in front and it was only after the last that the mare asserted. But for the 11lbs she received from the runner-up, it would have been much closer.
Sunday November 17th:
Cheltenham Results
The Grade 2 Supreme Novices’ trial attracted only a field of four. Sea Lord, on a six-timer beforehand, faced his stiffest task, especially giving 3lbs to The Liquidator – his nearest rival in the betting.
The story of Sea Lord is simply told. Once again, as we saw with Standing Ovation on the first day, it is no good expecting horses to act like machines. Sea Lord is willing but conditions – not necessarily against him – were not ideal. In this company you do not get away with nearly-but-not-quite. As a horse that wants better ground, this was always a risky assignment.
The Liquidator set off in front, soon putting his rivals to the sword. Apart from landing too steeply at the second-last, he jumped cleanly and had too much pace.
Sea Lord was nursed along by the excellent Denis O’Regan, who accepted his fate some way out – only chasing his mount along for second place on the run-in.
Sea Lord wants a flatter track and faster ground. Aintree may be his gig in the spring; although, with the excuses mounting up, the jockey asserts he wants further.
Being brutally frank, today’s conditions were not ideal, but he may not be that good. As for the winner, he looks versatile. He will stay two-and-a-half should connections favour a tilt at the Neptune.
Next up was the Arkle trial. Again, with Raya Star and Dodging Bullets vying for favouritism in a five-runner field, the inescapable conclusion was that better candidates for the big day wait in the wings.
Uttoxeter winner Raya Star was first to commit, but Dodging Bullets – winner of his only start over fences at Kempton and a classy if somewhat enigmatic hurdler – shadowed him and soon put the issue beyond doubt.
A big robust type, Dodging Bullets is an ideal chaser that jumps and travels but does not always find what is expected off the bridle. Nevertheless, he did all that was required here, looking as if there was plenty in reserve.
Apparently he is likely to go to Sandown next. His trainer is not in a hurry to over-race him on the approach to the Festival in March.
On what we have seen this weekend, at this stage, Friday’s winner Taquin Du Seuil looks a better Arkle prospect for his owner than Dodging Bullets. Both will stay further.
Saddled with a 10lbs penalty in the Listed Shloer Chase, Sire De Grugy brought a touch of class to the contest in a bid to win his sixth chase. In contrast to some questionable placing over the course of this three-day meeting, the option to take up this engagement seemed sound.
Early in the race, Sire De Grugy guessed at his fences and never looked comfortable, finishing off with two dicey heart-in-mouth leaps at the last two. Maybe his early mistakes unnerved him; maybe this is not his track (although he was a good second to Captain Conan in this race last season). Either way, this was not a convincing performance in a weak race.
The fact that Kid Cassidy was able to overhaul him on the run-in surely dispels any Queen Mother aspirations. McCoy was at his best on the winner – a horse that has limitations and is somewhat fragile.
Four-year-olds dominated the feature race of the day, the Grade 3 Greatwood Hurdle.
An expensive purchase from France, lightly-raced Dell’ Arca edged out Triumph Hurdle third, Sametegal, who was conceding 16lbs.
Flaxen Flare, another four-year-old that maintains his form, was a laudable fourth having travelled strongly for much of the way. Weight beat him.
Sandwiched between the principals, an enterprisingly-ridden Rawnaq was third.
Saturday November 16th:
Cheltenham Results
Having cut their teeth round lesser tracks against easier opposition, it was time for several Triumph Hurdle aspirants to face the music and each other in the Grade 2 – the first serious novice test of the season.
Never out of the first two, Royal Irish Hussar has come a long way since fiddling his way round Market Rasen on debut. One by one his rivals dropped away until it was left to dual Irish winner Guitar Pete to provide the only danger at the last. Here, Royal Irish Hussar made his only mistake but soon gathered himself together to stride clear on the run-in.
A classy recruit to this game, he has a lovely Flat racing pedigree and looks to match. Although he is not over-big, he appears to have peaked physically and clearly has an engine. He is the best juvenile novice seen so far.
Guitar Pete’s runs to date suggest he is a decent benchmark. Not much else made an impact. Carlisle winner, Azza made an attempt but was brushed aside from two out. Biggest disappointment was ex-French three-time winner Art Mauresque, who must be better than shown here.
Novice chasers got their turn in the Grade 2 over an extended three miles. It turned into a battle between two that had only raced once over fences, but they do look like good novices.
Le Bec justified market confidence, producing a good round of jumping and lasting from Shutthefrontdoor. Like the winner, the runner-up took the fences in stride. If anything, on the uphill slog, he was coming back.
Both have enviable attitudes and they look assured to stake major claims in the long distance events to come.
Sam Winner was not beaten far in third, but African Gold was a disappointment. He jumped well enough for most of the race but a mistake at the third-last put paid to his chance when warning signs were already flashing. To be frank, normally a real trier, he threw in the towel a little too quickly for comfort and it could be fencing is not his game.
The long-distance chasers treated the crowd to a stirring battle over the last two fences in the Grade 3 handicap chase over an extended 3m 3f.
Alvarado quickened on the run-in to beat Knockara Beau, Bradley and last year’s winner Monbeg Dude. The story of the race was pretty much one of last man standing.
Spring Heeled looks something of a monkey. He came there cruising after a mistake woke him up; plainly he failed to stay, but he also gave the impression he was only looking for an excuse to back off.
Despite the assessor’s best efforts to stop him, Johns Spirit defied a 10lbs rise for his latest and endorsed handicap win over course and distance in the Paddy Power.
Although his chance was there for all to see, the rise did seem harsh. Left in front over the last after the fall of Easter Meteor, he just lasted in the face of a late thrust from the for now well-handicapped (at least over fences) Colour Squadron.
The runner-up moved stylishly throughout and may have been a tad unfortunate as he was hampered by the last fence fall of Easter Meteor.
In third, Hidden Cyclone did best of those at the head of the weights. He has decent form in Ireland and obviously ran to his best.
Despite the numbers, this may not have been the best quality Grade 3 handicap. From 6lbs out of the weights, Attaglance was fourth ahead of poorly-treated Rajdhani Express. With the exception of Colour Squadron, those in the money may struggle in similar company off revised marks.
Return Spring gave trainer Philip Hobbs immediate compensation for the narrow defeat of Colour Squadron in the listed handicap. In an incredible finish, he denied top weight Salubrious in the dying strides with Southfield Theatre third.
As you would expect, several nice novices turned out for the Grade 2. Fourth in the race last year, unpenalised Creepy took advantage of some rivals probably booked for fences.
Persian War winner, Timesrembered, made a valiant attempt to concede 7lbs to the winner.
In third, old-fashioned chasing type, Port Melon, created a big impression. He jumped well only to be found wanted for foot from the last. A winner of two points in the spring, he should win over timber without too much problem, but anything this work in progress achieves in this sphere is surely a bonus. He could be back here in two years time for a Gold Cup.
Lingfield Results
Thewandaofu may have been flattered by her fifth in a sub-standard Rockfel, but was good enough to beat three rivals in the Class 5 novice.
Her cause was helped by the antics of serious market rival, Epic Voyage, who lugged in toward the rails, giving his jockey little chance of riding him out properly.
A great slab of thing, if they can sort Epic Battle out he should leave this run behind. The winner is rated 90, which will make life tough from here on.
Prince Alzain enjoyed the run of the race to snatch the listed event. It was a case of right place at the right time, although he probably would have won in any case, but it was messy.
Uramazin (66/1 chance), Tales Of Grimm and Tinshu were all hostages to fortune that finished strongly after the winner had sailed for home.
Valbchek finally got his head in front in the Listed event. To be honest he was hard to fancy today but the ability has always been there. He had to thread a path through a tightly packed field on the rail which suited, as he had no time to consider his situation. He had some decent rivals in behind in Take Cover, Lancelot Du Lac, Hawkeyethenoo and Hitchens.
November 15th:
Cheltenham Results
Standing Ovation never looked remotely comfortable in the class 3 for amateur riders.
With his rider giving up the outside to no one, he was swung ride at all the bends and either gave his fences too much air or, as was the case at the ditch on the far side twice, got underneath them.
He also raced keenly, possibly indicating this was one run in quick succession too many. It is also worth pointing out his wins have all come right-handed.
All in all, what looked like an easy opportunity beforehand from a penalty, proved to be a bridge too far.
Handy Andy was the one to cash in, ahead of Charingworth – a ten-year-old whom his trainer asserts is better over two-and-a-half.
Anay Turge, closely weighted with Eastlake on their Aintree running last time, proved that was the form to concentrate on here, pulling clear on the run-in after a strongly run class 2 chase.
In second, from the in-form Tizzard stable, Sew On Target will not have deflated followers of Johns Spirit in tomorrow’s Paddy Power Gold Cup.
The favourite, Renard, gradually closed in the final stages without landing a blow. He is considered by his connections to be a better prospect over further – possibly three miles. That does beg the question: why run over two?
Oscar Whisky jumped well enough on his chase debut without giving the impression he is a natural.
Left in front early by the erratic exploits of one-time leader The Cockney Mackem (almost stopped dead at the first), Oscar Whisky jumped right at most fences but did knuckle down when the pace quickened into a virtual sprint from two out.
Two-and-half is probably short of his best so he might develop into an RSA candidate; but now aged eight approaching nine, fences are something of an afterthought.
Considering he gave the runner-up 5lbs, the win of Taquin Du Seuil should not be underestimated. Claiming speed to be his forte, connections consider him a possible for the Arkle.
The success of Thomas Crapper in the intermediate class 3 hurdle lends the opportunity to plenty of strap-lines, all of which will be resisted here.
Not obviously well-handicapped, he kicked on from the turn and then again when challenged over the last by Angles Hill.
By all accounts third horse Whisper ran pretty much to expectations from a mark of 137.
Free To Dream stayed on strongly in fifth. More should be heard of him, possibly over fences.
Warden Hill was impossibly placed throughout but did pick off a few late on and is worth another chance at this level on a less exacting track.
That clever Tony Martin produced another handicap good thing in the novice handicap when lightly-raced Quick Jack – short enough in the betting beforehand but proving the money was not misplaced in running – hosed up despite a wide berth. Produced like the assassin’s sword by Ruby Walsh, he made a mockery of a mark of 113.
November 11th:
Kempton Results Review
The first division of the maiden looked a competitive affair. After having shown promise over course and distance on debut, well-supported Warrior Of Light set the seal on victory over a furlong out.
In a race where it paid to race handy, Rapid Advance made eye-catching ground from some way back to snatch second. This represented a vast improvement on his debut when stuck in the mud at Leicester. This surface suited him much better and he should win next time.
Canova, another that had shown promise on his only outing – at Newbury behind Strait Run – gave this a solid look by finishing third.
The second division was dominated by Godolphin, their newcomer, the Authorized colt Elite Army, getting the better of Intermedium inside the last furlong. They were first and second throughout in a race that, despite a faster time, did not look as strong as its predecessor.
November 9th:
Doncaster Results
Jazz, not inconvenienced by soft ground, finally broke his duck in the Class 5 maiden over six furlongs where he made all to beat Resolute and Direct Times.
Division 2 supplied something of a shock when after such a good effort in a listed event at Newmarket last week, the smooth travelling Penny Drops failed to quicken in the ground as unraced Indy drew away.
Penny Drops did appear to be losing her coat last week and this run may have come too soon and when she was over the edge. She will start next year favourably handicapped.
Well-backed Penina further underlined the folly of backing fillies at this time of year when finishing stone last in the nursery from a lowly mark of 66.
Black Caesar ran well enough in fourth, behind Kenny The Captain and Torchlighter who were involved in a tight finish.
Lincoln winner Levitate ended the season as he started it with victory at this track in the Class 2 handicap. By now it was soft bordering on heavy.
Jack Dexter capped a successful second half of the season with a listed win from the much improved mud-lover that is Highland Colori.
Conduct, noted in running last time over 1m 2f at York, was always travelling extremely comfortably in the final big race handicap of the season, eventually winning with some authority from a couple of outsiders in Rio’s Rosanna and Open Eagle. He did cope well with conditions, making a mockery of his unchanged mark of 96. A fragile type that does not stand too much racing, he looked good today but will be raised the best part of 10lbs for this.
At Wincanton, not much went right in running for Melodic Rendezvous in the Grade 2 hurdle. Almost slipping on the turn and jumping the second-last poorly when third, he came back to pass Triumph Hurdle runner-up and well-backed Far West at the last.
Considering he was conceding 4lbs to the winner, this was a smart performance and suggests a lucrative season awaits. Word is the winner has improved plenty since last year and will do so again.
The manner of Standing Ovation’s victory in the listed handicap chase suggests that even with a substantial hike from his present mark of 120, he can make his presence felt in stronger handicaps. He could just creep into the Hennessy, where he would be of interest.
Breeders’ Cup Result
Santa Anita Racing Results Review
Suddenly, with the long shadows of winter looming, British two-year-old form was given a major shot in the arm by the victories of Outstrip and Chriselliam in their respective championship events on Friday.
Perfectly delivered by Mike Smith, Outstrip pounced on Giovanni Boldini late to claim the colt’s event, with Bobby’s Kitten for the USA back in third.
Outstrip’s win pays a handsome compliment to his Dewhurst conqueror, War Command and also to Toormore – who beat him at Goodwood.
In fact, as well as bolstering War Command, the run of the first two emphasises the strength of Toormore’s form as he has beaten both contenders this season. Add the highly promisingBe Ready (said to be Outstrip’s superior at home), Australia, even Free Eagle (worth another chance), Kingman (something to prove), along with possibly Berkshire and we have an encouraging list of colts for next year. On a windy afternoon in early November, next season’s classics promise to realise the high standard they are designed to meet.
Chriselliam proved to be a revelation in the fillies equivalent, flashing clear of American contenders Testa Rossi and Colonel Joan.
She displayed an impressive turn of foot (to an extent absent at Newmarket) and looks the real deal for next season. Connections have always claimed her to be their best filly, so it has now been proved. Clearly, she has bloomed late in the season but that does not mean she will not be fighting fit for Newmarket next May.
Vorda had a torrid time. Thrown wide at the first bend, she was always struggling thereafter. Her defeat cannot be put down solely to this (certainly did not help though) or, more importantly, the trip. If anything, she appeared to stay on well enough and should not be judged too harshly – better to claim this was a bad day at the office for her. It could be Vorda is considered a two-year-old in essence – in part explaining the decision to come here.
France probably have a better 1,000 Guineas candidate in Miss France, about whom no doubts regarding trip seem to exist.
Dank gained a gritty success over Romantica in the Fillies and Mares.
The aptly named Magician, conjured by the boy-genius that is Aidan O’ Brien, (like some policemen he looks younger than he is) gave Ryan Moore a momentous double on the card when scything through rivals in the Breeders’ Cup Turf.
Magician soon swept clear from The Fugue. It was a furious pace and Moore kept his customary cool at the rear before delivering a devastating challenge. Not seen since a poor run in the St James’s Palace in June, as the only three-year-old in the pack, Magician’s win was further testament to O’Brien’s golden touch.
Another success for the imperious Galileo, and a first attempt at twelve furlongs for Magician (ran on Lasix), excuses for failure were stacked up beforehand.
The Fugue possibly had a tougher task in running given her position in the race (much closer to an unforgiving pace than the winner, but no fault of Buick’s – you have to ride from your position rather than take a pull).
However, Magician’s finishing kick meant he was the likely winner in any case. The Fugue leaves here unbowed.
To succeed at racing, you need to check your ego in at the entrance gates. Those constantly looking for applause get nowhere – applause only pays the bills if you happen to be a thespian or a comedian.
We are all reduced to a bit of both in turn and ultimately to fools in this business, so it is not my intention to poke a silly accusative finger at anyone when I compile these reports. The aim is to improve our joint chances of making some sense of an often crazy pursuit.
So, no malice is intended when I say the decision to run Olympic Glory in the Mile on fast ground was a poor one. In mitigation, I stated as much before the race in the strongest possible terms, but no matter.
Predictably, Olympic Glory ran flat and was never seen with a chance. It could be that he dislikes racing round bends; almost certainly, with all his best form on ground no faster than good, firm ground is not ideal.
Let me say up front, I have a great deal of time for Team Hannon. Their horses run to merit, are well turned out and usually perfectly ridden. In general, if you fancy one of theirs and it doesn’t win – you only have yourself to blame.
The Hannons are always approachable and a credit to racing. However, if they have a fault (most of us have at least one), it is the tendency to sometimes stubbornly over face horses when so-called judges (Ladbrokes made Olympic Glory a lay) can see they are making a mistake.
They were guilty here of asking a horse to achieve what was, to all intents and purposes, the unachievable. In the race, home confidence proved well-placed when the monster that is Wise Dan proved too tough. Having won the race last year, the champ returned to grind out a hard-fought success over outsiders Za Approval and Silentio, with Silver Max in fourth.
In the Classic, they raced for a total of five million dollars. It was a brutal clash down the straight with the Gary Stevens-ridden Mucho Macho Man squeezing home ahead of Will Take Charge and Declaration Of War, who was perfectly delivered by Joseph O’ Brien.
Declaration Of War ran a mighty race although he may have tired in the last half furlong on the dirt surface. With last year’s winner and the strongly fancied Game On Dude both beaten, this looked a strong renewal.
Saturday November 2nd
Newmarket Racing Results Review
The first of the Class 4 maiden for fillies that has a good record for the future went to the a daughter of Selkirk, Queen Of Ice. Able to cope with the ground, she was doing her best work on the uphill climb to nab her two nearest opponents. The winner is another decent juvenile produced by William Haggas.
In second, on her third attempt, Makruma set only a reasonable standard.
Apparently struggling early, another debutant, Angelic Air,arrived inside the last furlong looking like the winner. Understandably, her exertions caught up with her and she faltered close home. Nevertheless, for a daughter of Oasis Dream on ground this soft, she turned in a satisfactory debut and looks a sure-fire future winner.
It was experience to the fore in the following division (lacked the substance of the first), where on her fifth attempt, Miss Lillie narrowly outpointed Eastern Belle, who had shown promise in a similarly uninspiring maiden here last time.
Loch Ma Naire (no obvious promise at Kempton on only start) was third ahead of Godolphin newcomer True Match. All the signs are this was only an ordinary event.
Hartnell justified cramped odds when winning the Class 3 Zetland Stakes over 1m 2f – which is a long way for two-year-olds. By Authorized, he clearly stays very well and should be effective in that sphere next season.
However, he blitzed his opponents here and is very much on the upgrade. It would be a mistake to look upon him as a one-trick pony. The only serious opponent, Montaly (beat yesterday’s maiden winner Idder by five lengths last time) was unable to land a blow in second, lending credence to Hartnell’s effortless win.
After finishing second to Fillies’ Mile third Ihtimal in the May Hill, in the light of Chriselliam’s success in Santa Anita last night, Majeyda’s chance of defying a 3lbs penalty in the listed event increased. At least that was many people’s reasoning and the way the crime fitted the punishment after the event. This was not the strongest field but Majeyda – out of her depth in the Marcel Boussac last time – was too good. A strongly-built daughter of Street Cry, she would seem a natural for Dubai in March.
Adhwaa and Island Remede were next to finish ahead of Rosehill Artist. They finished well-strung out in behind.
Newbury Spring Cup winner Half A Sixpence, who seems in his element on the soft, romped away with the Class 3 handicap. Runner-up, the lightly-raced Magistral, could be of interest next year in a similar early season handicap – particularly on less testing ground.
Full credit is due to Nabucco for getting up in the face of adversity (mostly of his own making) in the listed event. Fully effective on soft, he was nudged from some way out and kept on doggedly to wriggle through a gap and collar Proud Chieftain.
Once again soft ground came to the aid of Penitent in the listed event, which he just won at the expense of French Navy and Tulius.
Last year’s UAE Derby winner Daddy Long Legs, having his first run since this year’s Dubai carnival, was far from disgraced, keeping on once headed. Sure to return to Meydan next year, it seems he retains ability.
In last place, this is the third time Lanansaak has failed to back up a decent run. It would appear she is at her best after lengthy absences.
Newmarket concluded its season with an undistinguished handicap won by Piceno.
Wetherby Racing Results Review
Transferring a good level of bumper form to hurdles, Gone Too Farbeat a decent field in the class 3 novice hurdle, jumping economically and well. He should progress over timber.
In second and third, Varom and Gassin Golf failed to seriously test the winner but were not disgraced.
Now twelve approaching thirteen and with a mind of his own, making Tidal Bay a lay in the Grade 2 hurdle he won last year seemed a no-brainer. Looking as if he wants the comparative luxury of fences as opposed to the immediacy of hurdles, he fiddled his way over the obstacles, was last off the bridle and rallied after a careless jump at the last to catch Medinas on the run-in. This was a smart piece of placing by Paul Nicholls and a great piece of riding from Sam Twiston-Davies. This run will put Tidal Bay spot-on for the Hennessy, where he will surely meet many better treated rivals.
With Long Run drastically underperforming, Benefficient predictably failing to stay, and Cape Tribulation failing to fire, the Grade 2 Charlie Hall went to Harry Topper from last year’s runner-up Wayward Prince.
Unioniste was handed a clear chance but a flat last-fence leap put paid to that. He probably wants further. This was a good reappearance from the winner, who needs to improve again to replicate anything achieved by last year’s winner, Silviniaco Conti.
More kamikaze pilots returned to base than runners in the concluding handicap hurdle so it is hard to fully evaluate its worth. After winning a novice at Folkestone last season, also on the soft, from a mark of 130, More Of That once again handled conditions to respond to a typical McCoy drive from the last to deny a fit Twelve Roses. If this outing brings the winner on, he could well go in again.
Roi Du Mee exposed various weaknesses in his Grade 1 rivals at Down Royal.
First Lieutenant was quick to backpedal;
Sizing Europe (yet to win at this trip) gave the impression three miles is the very top end of his stamina in second.
If nothing else, we do know Roi Du Mee is particularly effective in the soft.
Friday November 1st:
Newmarket Racing Results Review
Sea Defence stepped up on a passable opening effort at Kempton to win the first division of the maiden over seven furlongs.
He beat the other with form Think Again – the pair coming clear. With Mizzen Mast in the pedigree, the winner is a powerful sort that recorded a good time considering the ground.
With three runners having rateable form, the second division looked stronger but was run in a slower time than the first.
Idder got up in determined fashion to withstand a late lunge from Zee Zeely. Both have improved from only promising first outings.
Having finished behind Pretzel on debut, form horse Stetchworth, although only narrowly beaten, was effectively last of three back in third. He looked the winner from some way out but lacks a change of gear.
Warbrook (not a fancy pedigree) was the only one from outside the obvious to take the eye in fourth. He should be winning in ordinary company soon. A Kempton maiden would be ideal.
Quickening at the right time meant Cape Factor, who loves soft ground, won the listed event over six furlongs. She stole first run – may have won in any case – but runner-up Penny Drops (angling for room) only got going when it was too late. When it is this soft, it is difficult to make up ground but Penny Drops did her best. On the back of only one outing this was a good effort and Penny Drops (not the most imposing filly) should soon shed the maiden tag.
For a daughter of Elusive Quality, Genuine Quality stayed on in atrocious conditions for third.
Despite disappointing in the soft at Salisbury last time, Expert handled conditions today to beat Mar Mar in the conditions stakes that history shows favours two-year-olds.
Wetherby Racing Results Review
Royal Irish Hussar took another step forward in his new career at Wetherby. Mentioned after a clumsy round of jumping at Market Rasen, he was slicker in the air though there is still room from improvement. Nevertheless, the margin of his victory suggests he continues to improve.
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