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Latest notes from the track |
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TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 13th:
YORK HORSE RACING TIPS
Quite a decent selection assembled for the Class 2 Handicap for this first race since completion of drainage work after the Ebor meeting. Run over the Magnet Cup trip of an extended ten furlongs, it featured the reappearance of the imposing Stone Of Scone after an impressive Nottingham win, Moonquake, another fine example and Checklow. Slam looked well but the well-backed Meethaaq was a shade edgy. It was hard to narrow paddock inspection down to one. Stone Of Scone would win most rosettes by virtue of his sheer size but, maybe Moonquake tipped it for me. Road To Love made the running with a too keen Slam pressing him and predictably dropping away down the straight. Moonquake took it up from a prominent position three out. He sustained his gallop in strong fashion with Checklow given every chance in second. Stone Of Scone finished from the back to take third, completing a decent line-up in the first three places. Albaqaa was fourth. Rose Street merits a mention in fifth. Looking in need of the run, this big filly will have her day. Moonquake, a quality colt, has not always held his form. A powerful sort, he should make a better four-year-old now he has filled his frame. Checklow is not entirely convincing. He seemed to hang fire but that may have been the strong wind. He saw his race out without looking likely to make a fight of it with the winner. Stone Of Scone is a horse his stable are keen to look after. After a setback last year, and bearing in mind this was only his fourth run, he has done well considering he was ridden from the rear whereas all the action was taking place up front.
The Class 2 Handicap over seven furlongs for three-year-olds produced a good victory for Brief Encounter who took the eye on soft ground at Newbury when only just behind recent Chester winner Fareer. Caught at the back of the field then switched, Brief Encounter responded to a vigorous ride having given the impression he was thinking about it at one stage. Once in the clear, he stretched and collared dead-heaters Photographic and Hartley almost on the line. This was a big performance from a mark of 83 against strong opposition. Lightly raced, it is reasonable to assume he can progress. This ground – firm and drying all the time – seems ideal. Photographic did not look comfortable on the ground. Although she coped better than on the undulations of Newmarket, she really needs to race on an easier surface. She is all heart and there is a big race in her when conditions suit. Hartley does not look attractively weighted at present and this will not help. Satwa Laird was another to perform well on his first run of the season in fourth. Tartan Gunna led the next group with a break back to Ishe Mac, whose defeat of odds-on Palacefield last time does not seem such a surprise after this prominent showing in such a handicap from a rating of 81. Enact was an on-course drifter, started slowly and never landed a blow. Her form looks shaky and she may be better over six.
MUSIDORA STAKES (Group 3): On only her third start, Sariska, after a nightmare passage in the Fred Darling and over a trip more in keeping with her pedigree, put herself on course for the Oaks with a taking victory. A big, heavy-topped filly but a great mover, she handled fast ground but will always be better with some give. Always travelling, she loomed up to Star Ruby two out before edging on. An imposing sort, she won in a workman-like manner having threatened to draw right away. However, she has the look of a filly with more to give. She took a long time to pull up. Her form behind Super Sleuth at Newbury puts her on the periphery of top class form and with the likelihood we have yet to see the best of her, her promotion to the head of the Oaks betting is understandable. She is another success for Pivotal. Star Ruby kept on in dogged fashion, although she is unlikely to trouble the winner if they meet again. Even so this represents improvement after winning a Sandown maiden, beating Hidden Brief who did not advertise the form at Chester last week. Enticement had beaten Super Sleuth at two (although Super Sleuth has improved since) and did not run badly in third. She was having her first run of the season – one it appeared she just needed. Getting a little warm beforehand, she will improve for this and could be a Ribblesdale candidate. High Heeled was never travelling on this faster ground. She is a small filly that handled the soft at Newbury, but today was exposed as being below Classic standard.
DUKE OF YORK STAKES (Group 2): A race run at a blistering pace considering the headwind. Talk of the winner, Utmost Respect, being as good on this ground as he is on soft may be premature. A strong son of Danetime, the breakneck way the race was run played to his strengths and he was able to come from a fast pace and strike close home. This was a fine piece of riding from Paul Hanagan, but surely Utmost Respect will always be best on a softer surface. Some of these were victims of the frenetic early pace and several were noted pulling back the leaders inside the last furlong. Most notably, King’s Apostle who has run far and away his best race – sweeping fast and late to snatch second. The ever-consistent Tax Free was in the front line throughout and kept fighting to hold on to third. Strike The Deal was off the bridle at halfway but kept finding. He lost third place close home but has run well. Rock Of Rochelle surely wants further when conditions are this fast but stayed on in the last furlong having been burnt off at halfway. Captain Gerrard injected pace when dashing into the lead over two out but he is a five-furlong horse and wants dropping back to that trip. This will have blown away the cobwebs. Equiano is not a model of consistency and found the way the race unfolded against him. He may do better held up. Duff was in the van throughout, whilst for the second time Hatta Fort took the eye. Behind early and possibly outpaced, he was another to creep closer after the race had slipped away. A big handicap could be within his grasp – possibly the Wokingham.
Class 4 Handicap: This was not one of the strong handicaps of the week. William Buick, scoring a double on the day, popped Spring Jim in front inside the last furlong. Dazzling Light outstayed Serious Impact who looked the winner all the way down the straight. Despite appearing full of running, he failed to pick up in the threatened manner when asked but there was nothing wrong with his attitude. A winner of a Leicester maiden over ten furlongs, this mile-and-a-half found him out. A return to a mile-and-a-quarter will suit. King Fingal came from out of the pack to steal fourth from Cyborg. Richard Hughes could not navigate a course on Overrule – the pair hemmed in behind a wall of horses. This son of Dieses seems in good heart just now and may win next time if dropped a notch.
Fratellino caused an upset in the Class 3 Novice Stakes. The outsider of the field after showing little at Chester last week (was bumped), he bounced out of the stalls and made all. As on debut at Musselburgh, Ventura Cove got going too late. It looks as if an extra furlong will suit. Paradise Dream was a disappointing third. He is still green. He spooked on the way to post and had to be encouraged into the bridle throughout. It is questionable how good this race was.
They were packed like commuters in a rush hour Tube train throughout the final two furlongs of the Class 4 Handicap. As is usual, Frankie Dettori had his mount in the right place. Raaeidd was always poised to pounce and held a narrow lead racing into the final furlong. Then came the stacking-up challengers. Gradually, Barwell Bridge, followed by Union Island , forged ahead leaving the twice-raced Raaeido in third. Bin End was on the heels of the first three in fourth. In fifth, Muraweg advertised the Newmarket race he had finished fourth in won by Perpetually from the fancied Imposing. Eye-catcher of the race was surely Marching Time who finished on top of the first five but was unable to secure a run. Considered well handicapped by his stable there must surely be another day for this son of Sadler’s Wells. He could be the sort for the King George Handicap at Royal Ascot.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 12th:
WARWICK HORSE RACING TIPS
Quaker Parrot gave another boost to Raine’s Cross when winning the opening maiden. To be fair she had finished eleventh on debut so this win may have little to do with that initial outing.
Standpoint won the Class 5 Maiden despite looking more like a Lipizzaner horse. By Oasis Dream, he hits the ground with legs akimbo. Those he beat, with the exception of the disappointing favourite Roman Glory, had little form but Standpoint has more to offer on easier ground.
BEVERLEY HORSE RACING TIPS
High Office tried hard to reel in Mons Calpebut could not quite make it. It was eleven lengths back to the third. High Office goes on firm but may need a step up to a mile-and-a-half.
BRIGHTON HORSE RACING TIPS
They landed a right gamble in the opener with Cleisthenes who won very easily, looking a cut above (gelded so no pun intended) Celestial Dream
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 11th:
WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS
: In the Class 4 auction for fillies, Diamond Laura did well to hold on in a tight finish with Avonvalley, who had the better form considering Raine’s Cross had beaten her last time. These two put their experience to good use. Above Limits was not far behind in third on her debut and should find a race.
Six Wives got the better of Out The Ring in a rough claimer and although not the type for present owners, Cheveley Park Stud, will make a good buy for someone. Six Wives was taking a major drop in grade after her sixth at Newmarket to Its Alright (form is looking no better than average) and a third to Kings Of Leo at Warwick. Despite being pushed wide and losing a couple of lengths at the turn, she pegged back Out The Ring, who was beaten in a seller last time and was therefore a surprising favourite. It would appear he is not progressing after finishing behind two smart early types in Star Rover at Kempton and Archers Road at Newcastle.
YARMOUTH RACING TIPS
Kaspirit seems to have improved for her first effort when second to Desert Auction at Folkestone. She knew too much for the newcomer Danzoe and Shibhan – another making her debut – in the auction.
The well-backed Duchess Of Doom was not helped by a wide draw in the Class 6 Handicap. Ocean Counties landed a little gamble. Conversely, she had the favoured high draw. This was one of those handicaps cluttered with horses with little to recommend them. Bussell Along was third, ahead of Kings On The Roof.
Ithbaat had little to beat in the maiden. A hard puller here last time when behind Hyades, he settled better before being rousted to go about his work. He could be a slow-learner and develop into the sort to improve greatly on this in time.
Beaten thirty-five lengths last time in a Kempton handicap when odds-on and all the rage, lightly-raced Cadre beat some better fancied rivals in the Class 3 Handicap from what looked a harsh mark of 86. Tartan Gigha and Saltagioo were ahead of Godolphin’s Abu Dhabi winner, Stalking Shadow, in fourth.
Earlsmedic seems suited by undulating tracks. A dual-winner at Newmarket’s July course and once at Hamilton, he added Yarmouth to his list of winning courses. Fairly treated from 80 in the Class 4 Handicap, he may win again. Mut’ab almost grabbed the spoils but ran in snatches, although finally knuckled down for pressure. Today’s six is probably his trip. If we could rely on him reproducing this form, the ability is there. As it is, what rests between his ears seems his biggest handicap.
The last time we saw the Falbrav colt, Falcativ, he was completing an all-weather double with a win at Lingfield in October. Today, he opened his account on turf in good style in the Class 3 Handicap from a mark of 86. Not fully wound up, there is every chance this fluent mover will win again, particularly on this fast ground.
WINDSOR RACING TIPS
Crown, only a midget in comparison with the big grey colt Red Avalanche, seems to be going the right way. By Royal Applause, fast ground suits her and whilst the Verglas colt was rolling on the surface, Crown was able to run straight as an arrow to beat him in the class 4 novice. Plans to take in the Queen Mary seem ambitious. Art Jewel has the off-putting habit of swishing her tail.
Ordnance Row is a real professional and won the Listed Race for the second year running. The impression has always been he is better with cut, but on recent evidence, he seems adaptable. The extremely affable Mr Hannon senior was in top form. Having pencilled in the Queen Mary for Crown, he now sees the Eclipse as a target for Ordnance Row. No chance of a libation or two having passed your lips I suppose Richard! Pinpoint was a satisfactory second on his return to action on ground also on the quick side. Icesolator, another that would probably prefer a more forgiving surface, was a close up third. This was a good effort from the three-year-old. Third in the Greenham to Vocalised, he becomes the first from the race to frank the form. Laa Rayb failed to act on the track and was ill at ease on such fast ground.
Times Up may not have won the 1m 2f maiden but in finishing a staying on second to 72-rated Featherweight, has done his future prospects in a handicap no harm. A promising second at Newmarket last year when finishing in front of Legislate, he is another run away from a mark. Should he fail to win next time, or scramble home over a mile let us say at Wolverhampton, a mark in the mid-seventies would make him very interesting over a mile-and-a-half.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 10th:
LONGCHAMP RACING TIPS
POULE d’ESSAI des POULAINS (Group 1): Silver Frost maintained an unbeaten record for the year with his third and most important win in this French equivalent of the 2,000 Guineas. There are no teasing questions about this horse’s participation at Epsom, or indeed in the French Derby at Chantilly as he is bred to be a miler. This was a clear-cut victory under a confident Soumillon ride. Held up, Silver Frost was produced with a wide run to mow down the opposition and establish himself as an improving colt that travels well and can quicken. This ground suited his action and he won with something in hand. Le Havre confirmed his beating of Naaqoos was no fluke by again finishing in front of that rival in second. As this is only the fifth run of his career and an otherwise unblemished record was halted by heavy ground in a Group 1 as a juvenile at Saint-Cloud, he is clearly another improving three-year-old. Naaqoos was third but demoted to sixth place in one of those decisions only the French can make. He looks a tricky ride, was pulling early and his erratic behaviour did cause problems to his rivals. Promoted from fourth to third, Westphalia was the major beneficiary. Westphalia was second to Silver Frost last month, but with that vital turn of foot absent at this level, this would seem as good as he is. Then came Oiseau de Feu. Essentially, this race worked out pretty much to the blueprint from a French point of view. Vocalised failed to capitalise on his three successes this year, running well below form; Shaweel, behind Vocalised at Newbury, was seventh.
POULE d’ESSAI des POULICHES (Group 1): Another victory for the French in what looked like a strong renewal of their equivalent of the 1,000 Guineas. One of the features of French racing is the consistency of their animals. Elusive Wave, beaten only once in five attempts, and then in a dodgy-looking Marcel Boussac when Proportional was granted the run of the race, returned to her best. Back on decent ground, this daughter of Elusive City reversed placings with Proportional, who was only fourth, winning from stable mate Tamazirte and the much-heralded Fantasia. Connections may be tempted to cross the channel for the Coronation with Elusive Wave providing the ground is suitable. Fantasia missed a beat at the start but was soon in second place, perfectly poised to strike if good enough. She failed to pick up and soldiered on to hold third. Either some very good judges are wrong or this was not her running. Of course her Nell Gwyn success looked exciting but was achieved against inferior opposition. The big question for her connections is where to go next. Do they persevere at this trip and try the Coronation, or sail uncharted waters and target the Oaks? Of course, there is always the middle route in the Prix Diane over an extended mile-and-a-quarter. The trouble is this run told us little. Yes, she was staying on over a mile. No, she lacked the turn of foot to win. Events may prove she is better than this – her overall form suggests not.
PRIX de SAINT-GEORGES (Group 3): It was a busy day for the French stewards who threw out all-the-way winner Inxile, demoting him to third. As interference was deemed to have taken place, a 105-rated horse in this country called Mood Music was awarded the race. Last seen here when ninth at Lingfield to Argani and Judd Street, Mood Music is trained in Germany, has run in Dubai, but nothing so far achieved suggested he was up to a race of this nature. Benbaun, a seasoned and successful traveller, was placed second ahead of Inxile. Now six and after a couple of reversals, Marchand D’Or may have lost some of his edge.
LEOPARDSTOWN RACING TIPS
Dixie Music won the maiden nicely and is a name to remember.
DERRINSTOWN STUD DERBY TRIAL: Fame And Glory is beginning to build up a head of steam for Epsom. He followed up his win in the Ballysax with an even more taking success here, beating Mourayan by five lengths and conceding 3lbs. Although not a reliable yardstick so far down the line, Mourayan was only half-a-length behind Sea The Stars last year. The way Fame And Glory quickened from fourth place to take the lead down the straight confirms he is a live and serious Derby horse. He is a Montjeu and did flash his tail when handed a smack. Perhaps he thought it superfluous. He will stay the Derby trip and has been promoted to favouritism for the race in most lists. He created a big impression last time and built on it here. Hail Caesar remains of interest. No Derby horse, he is capable of winning a decent prize, particularly when stepped up in trip. He has a likeable attitude and it would be no surprise to see him at Royal Ascot.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 9th:
ASCOT RACING TIPS
BUCKHOUNDS STAKES (Listed):
A race that provided a big step up in class for Duncan, which he took in his stride after winning the City and Suburban from a mark of 99. He is a most attractive son of Dalakhani that in the words of his trainer has only now matured and become the complete article. Keen early without being foolish, he did take a hold despite a keen clip set by Zaham, but loomed larger than a pantechnicon in the rear view mirror two out to take the lead without a question being asked. He won comfortably and an engagement in the Hardwicke at the Royal meeting would not seem out of place. He is improving at a rate of knots. Starfala squeezed into second, but in truth the rest were taking part in a separate contest. Steel Tango was pipped for second; this was his third decent effort and he deserves a change of luck. The penalty always threatened to beat Charlie Farnsbarns who has run to form with the third.
Good Again was always moving smoothly in the Class 2 Bovis Handicap. She got to the leaders without Eddie Ahern moving and whilst all around were being urged, hit the front to score decisively. A very consistent filly, she had finished fourth to the progressive Photographic and Shampagne at Newmarket last week. Obviously, this win from a mark of 85 pays those two a compliment and underlines the strength of that event. According to her jockey, Newmarket did not suit her and she was much better on this flatter track. This is Good Again’s second win here. In-foal Secret Night was second, ahead of Trumpet Lily and the hard-pulling pacesetting Feeling Fab. Superverdi lined up as a warm favourite. She did bang her head on the stalls and possibly a disappointing run can be excused.
VICTORIA CUP HANDICAP (Class 2):
This was a typical early season handicap run on fast ground. It went to Swift Gift, a horse that had been trying all last year at this sort of level and coming up short. With a maiden at Wolverhampton in 2007 to his name, he did not seem an ideal candidate for this but some narrow misses in good company made him a contender for the faithful. Nezami was second ahead of the fully exposed Dhular Dhar, a regular in this sort of event. He is a seven-furlong specialist, but his proximity to the first two from a totally exposed mark of 99 does suggest most of these will struggle in races such as this. Signor Peltro has run well enough in fourth on his first attempt of the season. Trafalgar Square is another that arguably should have struggled in this sort of race but still managed fifth. Of the also-rans, Markab may have been flattered as he had the faster strip of ground on the stands’ side to race on for much of the way. Therefore, his position of sixth may be misleading. We’ll Come did better than might have been expected on this ground – Blue Sky Basin is too high in the weights, Aeroplane needs a small field, Evens And Odds probably needs to return to six and Arabian Spirit could not act on ground this quick.
Little Perisher has not stopped improving and his victory in the Class 3 Maiden was further proof of the advantage juveniles with experience have, especially over five furlongs. For one beaten at Brighton, this was a fair performance to win at Ascot.
Absolute Magic, an early foal, did best of the unraced contingent to finish second ahead of Monsieur Joe who had been second at Windsor to Be Invincible. Key Art shaped with some promise but as a race, this was nothing special.
Striking Spirit became another success for Dandy Nicholls in the Class 3 Handicap. He has a secret with cast-offs. Whatever it is, it is certainly effective. Jimmy Styles made a bold attempt to peg him back but was always fighting a losing battle against a horse that had secured first run.
LINGFIELD RACING TIPS
Seek N’ Destroy, with a 4lbs turnaround with Laudatory for a ¾ length beating [not 6lbs as was claimed by Michael Hills and Nick Luck] made it count. A strong big son of Exceed And Excel, racing close to the rail he made all. The rail is a big help here on turf (it was noticeable yesterday). Acquiesced and Kaabari were second and third. Laudatory did not get the best of runs, having been drawn widest of all. Tucked in, Adam Kirby had to chart a convoluted passage and when finally in the clear, the race was as good as over. He would not have won so a mark of 83 looks an accurate one.
OAKS TRIAL STAKES (Listed Race): Midday was the best filly here, particularly after her second to Derby aspirant Debussy. The niggle was, being by Oasis Dream, whether she would stay just short of the full Oaks distance. She got the trip well, looked full of running throughout and having handled Epsom, was equally at home round here. Not a big filly but a neat and athletic one, she ran out an emphatic winner. She did not beat true Classic fillies but trounced those pitched against her. July Jasmine – winner of a Leicester maiden – was second and to be fair made ground from an unpromising position. Tottie was a run-of-the-mill third. After Debussy’s effort this week at Chester, Midday is well worth her place in the Oaks where she would have every chance of reaching a place.
DERBY TRIAL STAKES (Group 3): It was not plain sailing for the tall but slightly unfurnished Age Of Aquarius here; but despite looking as if the run would pull him together and failing to act round the final bend, he dug deep when two major dangers appeared. First Montaff then Father Time laid down big challenges – Montaff led at one point – but Age Of Aquarius responded to gain a hard fought victory. He is worth more than the official margin as he did give away several lengths on the turn. Representing Group 1 form last autumn, he looks the sort to improve as the season progresses. He should stay further. Montaff is hard to weigh up, but Father Time looks as if he is heading in the right direction.
There was nine lengths between first and last in the Group 3 for fillies, one of the weakest events of its type in the calendar. The winner was rated 95 in Ireland and had won just two ordinary races coming into this. San Sicharia, got the better of a similar animal in Baileys Cacao with Please Ring in third. They finished in a heap in behind, headed by Royal Confidence.
Highland Glen was a facile winner of the Class 5 Maiden. He did not act that well on the track but was much too good for opposition that looks likely to be jumping eight flights before long. Once in the straight, the winner pulled away. He stays well and if he does progress, it will be in that field.
Unnefer completed a satisfactory day for the Henry Cecil team when winning the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. There had been a doubt about his participation on account of the ground but, a winner on this sort of surface, that reasoning was hard to fathom. A recent second to Staying On put him at a considerable advantage against the likes of Halicarnassus and he duly won with the authority the form book suggested was appropriate.
HAYDOCK RACING TIPS
Dual Dubai winner, City Style did not look comfortable on the fast ground in the Listed Race won by Beacon Lodge. He was staying on in awkward fashion in third, appearing to feel the ground. Even so, against older horse and with a 4lbs penalty, it was not a bad run. Ordnance Row was second.
Kingdom Of Light, second to Mister Manannan on debut, won the first six-furlong event in this country. Step In Time, a late April foal, ran with promise in second. Our Dream Queen, a small filly against the colts, was treading water throughout the last two furlongs. Her debut at Newbury was on easy ground and as she is by Oasis Dream, she may have found this surface too lively. The second division did not look as good. They formed a line a furlong out and appeared to be going up and down in the same place throughout the last furlong. Pycian won but the form is questionable.
Royal Rock looked useful once set in motion in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes when the rest were soon playing for places. Abraham Lincoln and Zidane came out the best of a funny old collection of horses either returning from long absences or trying a new trip.
Bouvardia appreciated the return to six furlongs at Nottingham. She rolled about on the ground but as another Oasis Dream that can be forgiven. This looks to be her trip.
Wild Rhubarb beat some slow opponents at Warwick but clearly stays well. |
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TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 8th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
A fiercely competitive Class 2 Handicap started the day. Celtic Sultan, who looked well and operates here, towed them along until Fathsta rushed up to challenge and pass him early in the straight. Once headed, he lacked his competitive edge but did not drop away completely, finishing on the heels of the leaders. Celtic Sultan probably needs easier targets these days. Mister Hardy, on a current roll, swept wide with his turn of foot to land this opening event for favourite backers. Opus Maximus stayed on for second ahead of Fathsta, Kings Point and Internationaldebut.
DEE STAKES (Group 3): Drumbeat had all the qualifications to win this. Second to Redwood at Newmarket, to Fame And Glory at Saint-Cloud, and fourth behind Soul City, Gen Amhras and Intense Focus at the Curragh, he brought all the right ingredients to the table. In the main, he was facing rivals representing maiden form. Unsurprisingly Drumbeat carried the support of Ballydoyle. Possibly he was unlucky, but the head went in the air two out in typical Montjeu style. Under pressure, Drumbeat did rattle home strongly but in a four-way finish it was not enough. He is obviously behind the best his yard has to offer. South Easter, unheard of when Drumbeat was making a name for himself as a juvenile, improved markedly on a Newbury debut on soft ground behind Border Patrol on Greenham day. A son of Galileo, this surface was more up his street, but a win in a Group 3 speaks volumes for the improvement South Easter has made. In a finish that could have gone one of three-ways, Gitano Hernando wriggled up the inner without quite getting there. Then came the luckless Drumbeat with the strapping Deposer a surprising fourth. Libel Law and Big Bound were left behind when the pace increased. Devotion To Duty (much fitter today than at Newmarket) flopped out of the stalls, did not act on the track and found the ground too firm. Unsurprisingly he was a well-beaten last. Excuses aside, so far he is all talk. With only Native Ruler winning a soft target at Pontefract, the Newmarket maiden he finished fourth in is not living up to expectations.
ORMONDE STAKES (Group 3): With no rain, a field of eight was stripped to only three. Once again, Ballydoyle fielded the favourite, this time in Frozen Fire. Another Montjeu with a chequered history and best form on easier ground, he faced two pretenders that were scaling the heights but were not Irish Derby winners. With no pacemaker in the field, they walked for the first three furlongs. At one point, Richard Hughes, determined not to lead, actually trotted on Scintillo and it was left to William Buick to make it on Buccellati. Cleverly ridden, Buccellati stayed there. A slow pace was never going to suit Frozen Fire who was last of the three throughout. The way the race was run seemed likely to suit Scintillo, but on the sprint from the turn he was unable to reel in Buccellati. It is worth emphasising that Buccellati ran an excellent third to Tartan Bearer and Pipedreamer when trying to concede 3lbs last time. Versatile as regards trip and ground, he will have to be taken seriously from here on. Scintillo had every chance but with so much apparently in his favour, found disappointingly little. For form purposes, forget Frozen Fire’s run, but his attitude leaves something to be desired and he would not be on my shortlist.
City Dancer was back against her own generation in the Class 2 Handicap after a fine run at Musselburgh against top class older sprinters. She had the draw but a slow start meant she gave it away. Last to load and awkward for a moment, as is often the case under such circumstances she was not focused as the gates opened. Amongst the tail-enders turning for home she powered to the line, delivering a challenge inside the last furlong she could not sustain. Having handed her rivals two or three lengths over a five-furlong dash before a defeat of less than a length, it is tempting to think she should have won. However, connections of the well-backed Doctor Parkes are adamant they won with something in hand and their charge would have prevailed in any case. Low numbers dominated as Doctor Parkes from one and Noble Storm, a fast starter that was able to cut across, were the two to beat her. The first three were clear of Saif Al Fahad, making this look strong form.
Balaagha defied her draw to win the Class 4 Maiden. She is something of a hothead, but was in a race lacking in depth that looked tailor-made. Last to hack to post, dropped in during the race and produced on the outside, she was too good for tame opposition. Miss Tango Hotel was second, La Marseillaise third. It is a struggle to make too much of this. The winner will not get away with such antics against stronger company.
Up to now it had not been Johnny Murtagh’s meeting. That is the way of it at Chester. It has not been mine either! Richard Hughes all but stole the final event – the Class 4 Handicap – with a winning move before the turn when dashing Red Merlin into a lead. It looked as if he held on but to the astonishment of all Murtagh had forced Empowered up to dead-heat. Empowered was attempting a mile-and-a-half for the first time. He has the look of a sprinter, is by Fasilyev, and only the fact he is trained by the ultra-shrewd William Haggas suggested he would stay. Already a winner of two ten-furlong events, he has already exceeded pedigree limitations. The stamina comes from the distaff side. A winner of an apprentice handicap six days’ ago, Empowered escaped a penalty but will be reassessed after winning this ordinary event, but under the circumstances, winning it with a little to spare.
NOTTINGHAM RACING RESULTS:
The first three home in the Median Auction on this fast ground were all by dirt stallions. The imposing Devil You Know has developed into a fine well-grown three-year-old. By Elusive City, he won with something in hand, was backed to do so, and looks a likely candidate for a handicap. Runner-up was Trading Nation, by Tiznow. He finished strongly over this six and an extra furlong may suit. Another Elusive City, the unraced Tagseed, was third and makes up a trio of horses likely to pay their way in future engagements.
Habaayib took her time to get on top when taking the Class 5 Maiden Fillies’ Stakes but when the penny dropped she cruised away. At odds of 1/4 she only did what she was entitled to but will have learned from the experience. Third to Its Alright at Newmarket, by all accounts she had been working with older horses since.
Darley Sun, a big son of Tiger Hill, was impressive in the Class 5 Handicap both in the paddock and in the race. It would appear he has been hiding his light under a bushel. This step up in trip, allied to a mark of 69, gave him every opportunity to shine.
Say No Now was another to win as she liked in the maiden, but she beat little of consequence and had the form to hack up in the manner achieved.
Barynya, at 1/4, the shortest of a clutch of favourites on this card, got turned over in the second division of the fillies’ maiden. This was a bitter blow to all concerned, as she looks so classy. Having shown promise at Newbury in a maiden that may not be as good as it seemed, she failed to quicken once she hit the front. Queen Martha, strongly fancied last time but a filly that showed little, battled back but may have been fortunate to hold on as Kinetix finished like the proverbial missile inside the last furlong. She would have won in another few strides. Excuses for Barynya are thin on the ground. The race was run in a storm, but it would seem unwise to cling to that as if it were a lifeboat.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Demeanour travelled well and looked to have the Class Handicap in the bag until the arrival of Lunar River.
Stargaze looks more of the finished article now and opened his account in the Class 5 Maiden after a couple attempts in stronger company. Last of all at Newbury, he was fourth last time to the useful Raine’s Cross at Bath.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MAY 7th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
The Class 2 Handicap did not look a strong event. Cheshire Prince received the perfect Chester ride, racing in the slipstream of El Dececy and striking for home two out. Clear in the straight, he held on by a diminishing margin ahead of a rapid closer in the shape of Kingdom Of Fife. Possibly the runner-up was unlucky although he looks a complex character. Visored for the first time, he did respond when rousted, taking part in one of those finishes we get round here that could have gone either way. Cheshire Prince was recording his fourth course win. Robby Bobby and Gala Casino Star were the next two. Fanjura appeared to stay on this first attempt at this trip. Never seriously put into the race, he closed in encouraging style when it was all over to finish an eye-catching seventh. Mull Of Dubai seemed reluctant to stride out on ground that was too quick for him.
HUXLEY STAKES (Group 3): Having been the wrong side of two photo finishes so far at this meeting, Ryan Moore lifted Doctor Fremantle to victory in a desperate affair. Staying On has developed into a fine specimen and set off in front, capitalising on his fitness and making it at a searching gallop. Turning for home, he appeared to flag. Having travelled well in fourth place, Doctor Fremantle was shoved wide on the turn, but to his credit battled on to take the advantage a furlong out. Staying On came back at him with a last burst and in the end, headed for a stride, Doctor Fremantle had to pull out all the stops to secure victory. Expresso Star, who was moving better than the winner on the turn, was a close third on ground plenty quick enough and has justified the leap in grade. Fairmile was a close fourth. This was genuine Group 3 form. Possibly Doctor Fremantle will improve for a return to a mile-and-a-half, but he was reported as being very fit today – confirmed by his appearance – so on this showing this is about his level.
CHESTER VASE (Group 3): What we got here was a somewhat farcical outcome. Allowed much too much rope on this fast ground, Golden Sword, ostensively a pacemaker for Masterofthehorse, soon had this field stretched. Not a bad performer in his own right – rated 105 – Golden Sword quickened again with three to race whilst his better-fancied rivals sauntered in arrears assuming he would come back. Such an eventuality looked less and less likely as they allowed the strong-galloping Golden Sword to extend his lead. Finding more turning for home, he was at least three lengths clear as they straightened. At last woken from their slumbers, Messrs Fortune and Murtagh, the biggest culprits, began to get busy. Masterofthehorse closed over a furlong out but it was too little too late. He probably should have won, but all credit to Golden Sword for sustaining his gallop and continuing to answer his rider’s calls. Given his ability to run a field ragged, on similar ground he could be a serious St Leger candidate come September. Debussy would have been involved in a tight tussle if he had been set alight earlier. As it was he kept on for third. On this evidence he has come up short of Group 1 standard, but remains one to keep the right side of. Sight Unseen attempted to give chase but, a winner on gluey ground at Newbury, was not good enough although he lost momentum when Debussy crossed his path a furlong out. Ryan Moore on Saptapadi was riding a horse that plainly looked unhappy on the quick surface, so can be excused for not pushing his mount early when Saptapadi was not striding out. This son of Indian Ridge is a likeable sort that is learning all the time and will do better on easy ground. Above Average was exposed although had a difficult passage. Criticisms of jockeys are easy. In Murtagh and Fortune we are talking about jockeys that make few mistakes. Chester is an oddity of a racecourse that finds man and beast out on a regular basis. They got in wrong today – end of…
Fareer, a fine example of his sire Bahamian Bounty – in that he has made such physical improvement since last year – made light of his task in the Class 2 Handicap. Raised just a pound for a nice reintroduction in a Newbury handicap that is sending out mixed messages, he was happy enough on this ground. When pulled out, he forfeited some ground but there was no danger of him running into trouble. He swept by on the wide outside to beat Tartan Gunna and a slightly unfortunate Foundation Room, who would not have beaten the winner but may have finished second if she had not been messed about when trying for a run. The winner is useful and appeals as the sort to continue to improve. Hunterview wants easy ground and some respite from the handicapper. There is not too much of Resort and she was already retreating when her rider had to snatch her up. She battled gamely to win at Newmarket but faced a tougher task here.
The Class 3 maiden for juveniles looked average. Metal Soldier, a good-sized gelded son of Antonius Pius got the better of two with a run to their credit in Reel Credit Crunch and Swilly Ferry. Neither set a strong standard. Swilly Ferry had run a fair race in the Brocklesby but that was six weeks’ ago, which is a long time for an early two-year-old. It was a mistake to think Archers Road – who has improved since – was an indication of the chance of Swilly Ferry. The Brocklesby winner, Hearts Of Fire, was made to look outclassed at Newmarket and Swilly Ferry’s absence was surely not by design. He had every chance in the race but tired in the last furlong.
It has taken time for Invincible Heart to get off the mark after an excellent debut run at Newmarket as a juvenile. This was his ninth attempt and his first in a handicap. On his second to Infaraad at Newmarket last time, with Euston Square and Invisible Man third and fourth, he appeared to be well in from a mark of 86. However, that did not tell the whole story if put into context of his overall form. Drawn one and back over six furlongs, he was quick to start, nudged into an instant lead by Jamie Spencer and strode clear down the straight. This is his trip. Aakef lost the race at the first bend when pushed wide, but it could be he is better at five in any case.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
Third to the very useful Crown Choice at Kempton, Eastern Empire was sent on at the right time by Richard Hughes to poach a winning advantage in the Class 5 Maiden. The heavily backed Jesse James, representing John Gosden in a race he likes to win – Pipedreamer won this before going on to greater glory – once again disappointed his supporters. Possibly given an over-confident ride, he was pulled out to challenge and made headway without looking likely to cut the winner down. He is becoming expensive to follow; clearly, a maiden will come his way but making excuses on a regular basis for him may be unwise. Maria Nunziata ran well enough for a debutant in third.
The attempt to strike while the iron is hot with Star Rover narrowly failed, but although third of four in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes, he went down fighting, beaten just over half a length. Involved in a scrap with Grand Zafeen early, they were battling it out inside the last when Hughes delivered Desert Auction up the rail to burgle the race from the pair of them. This was an improved showing from the winner, who broke his duck at Folkestone, but the Hannon team warned us that he was the type to improve as the season developed.
Sterling Sound may be capable of improving on her third in the Class 4 Handicap for fillies. With the pace slow, she was in the unenviable position of racing in last place until it quickened and her rider could manoeuvre her into the clear. For a moment she looked like getting there, but her run flattened out inside the last furlong. Under the circumstances, she did well to grab third behind Charlotte Point.
Tactic was entitled to win the Class 5 Maiden on his Newbury second to Sight Unseen. When produced he quickened to win with something in hand. His two-year-old form was solid and he should find a handicap or two. Gibb River raced as he did when in arrears at Newbury, dropping back then running on again. This time he finished closer to Tactic and he appeals as the type to continue to improve. Still on the leg but attractive, he should get better as the season progresses and looks like a stayer in the making. Although Time Machine had finished second over ten furlongs at Yarmouth on his sole effort last month, this trip seemed beyond him as he faded in fourth.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
Existentialist demonstrated the value of the rail when winning the fillies’ maiden. A late foal, her form with Azif and Diamond Laura meant she would be hard to beat unless she bumped into anything out of the ordinary. Money for the runner-up, Bell’s Ocean, should be recovered as long as her sights are restricted to this level.
Folio is on a winning mark just now but this ground was too lively and he could never land a blow in the Class 4 handicap. Even allowing for his age, he is worth keeping in mind at a track like this when the rains come. Richard Hughes, a jockey in fine form at present, gave the long-standing maiden Special Reserve a great ride to land the prize.
Talk of Cawdor being anything other than a handicapper seems wide of the mark. Presumably he works well at home but, on this his fifth attempt, and from a mark of 75 in a Class 5 handicap, his failure to win tells its own story. Yes, he wants easier ground and possibly a seventh furlong. He may come into his own in the autumn. The race was won by Gilt Edge Girl, a filly ahead of the handicapper for now.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 6th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
LILY AGNES CONDITIONS STAKES: This was all about speed from the moment the stalls opened. Star Rover flashed out, taking a fierce hold, towing Archers Road in his wake. These two had plenty of experience so knew what they were doing, soon putting their rivals to the sword. Star Rover had a nine-pound penalty to shoulder but as when conceding the best part of a stone to Chicita Banana the weight was not a problem. Blazing throughout and taking a fierce hold, he just held the persistent challenge of Archers Road. These were the two form horses and had proved they could cope with the big occasion. Opposing them will pay off sometime in the near future, but right now getting them overturned is difficult. Nothing else got into the contest. Tom Folan and Goodbye Earl were outsiders with little claim to a race of this sort and were next to finish. The favourite, Mijas Playa, was keen on the way to post and was another taken off her feet, although her supporters may claim she might have finished closer but for a tardy start and an incident over a furlong out. The bitter disappointment was Kings Of Leo who looked really well but perhaps this, her third run within a week, was asking too much. She fly jumped on exit from the stalls but was never able to cope with the fast pace.
CHESHIRE OAKS: (Listed Race): This did not look a strong renewal. Perfect Truth led from the start and made it at a keen clip. By Galileo out of a Darshaan mare, she stays and with a long easy stride found her opponents out one by one. Mystical Spirit was soon tailed-off; Hazy Dancer, by Oasis Dream, was never able to use her stride on this ground. Simple Solution was the next to drop away, leaving Hidden Brief, Phillipina and Roses For The Lady to give chase. Only Phillipina came out of the pack and with Perfect Truth tiring inside the last furlong, was gradually getting there. This was a good show from a filly raised in grade; she would have won in another stride. Backed for the Oaks, she may not be up to that but races await. Perfect Stride’s giant stride understandably shortened inside the final furlong, but she broke the track record. It would appear the trip and ground has made all the difference as she was able to reverse earlier Irish form with Roses For The Lady. It is early days to write off Hidden Brief, who looked as if she failed to stay.
CHESTER CUP: (Class 2): Daraahem was always prominent and in the right place in a race where several had to overcome obstacles to challenge. Never worse than fourth, this gelded son of Act One, a winner at this meeting last year, stuck it out once in front. Tom Queally nursed Ajaan, a tricky but talented customer, before snaking out of the pack. It looked long odds-on that he would win, but Ajaan does not respond for vigorous riding and Queally had to suffer as he closed without throwing the works at his mount. With rail-runner Daraahem staying on strongly, Ajaan narrowly failed to land something of a gamble. Halla San and Desert Sea were third and fourth. Amerigo was last-but-one seven out but weaved his way through to finish with something in hand. The breaks did not materialise when wanted. Something like the Ascot Stakes should suit him admirably. Inchnadamph ran extremely well for a nine-year-old in sixth. He really wants easier ground and opportunities may be thin on the ground. One of those long-distance affairs at Pontefract may suit. The seventh, Downhiller, handles this fast ground but runs as if he will be better with some cut.
The Class 2 five-furlong sprint was all about those drawn low. Strike Up The Band hit the gates as usual and blazed from his one spot. A furlong out it was clear Sohraab had him within his sights and only had to be pushed out to score. The winner is versatile as far as the ground is concerned, having finished an excellent second to Chief Editor at Newbury in the soft last time. Angus Newz was third. The draw thwarted several. Elhamri almost ran off the track on the turn. Green Manalishi responded to pressure but was always clutching at the coat tails of the leaders. An Tadh on the other hand, drawn eleven and racing in second-last place after a furlong, freewheeled through the field without Johnny Murtagh getting serious as there was simply no point. An Tadh finished strongly in seventh and is handicapped to win a decent prize over here if sent on a retrieval mission.
The Class 3 Handicap for three-year-olds produced a difficult to assess winner beforehand in Braveheart Move after a narrow but comfy success in a Wolverhampton maiden in September. Someone knew, as there was money for Sir Mark Prescott’s son of Cape Cross from a stable that had also entered recent Lingfield winner Fortuni – a non-runner. That allowed his stable companion to strut his stuff. And strut he did. This was a strong-looking handicap that, from a mark of 78, Braveheart Move was able to win with some authority despite the apparent narrow margin. He looks capable of improving. Frankie Dettori provided a stop-go gallop on Quai D’Orsay, another with little representative juvenile form. He stuck on well. Jedi is gradually ascending the ranks. On this evidence, this son of Pivotal will appreciate some cut but at least we know he stays. He kept on strongly after momentarily being outpaced four out. A half brother to Hi Calypso, he has complimented the Aqwaal, Polly’s Mark form from Sandown, which also encompasses Three Moons. He should be on the mark next time. Kings Destiny was fourth, his cause not helped by racing on the wide outside. Even so this run represents a plateau of the form from Leicester. Despite being worse off at the weights since his recent win, Headline Act was less than a length behind Kings Destiny this time indicating he is improving. The run of Citizenship in fourth was a head scratcher but they did finish in a bunch behind the first three.
The Class 4 Maiden looked a quality maiden. Won last year by Daraahem, this year’s selection set a decent standard. Wood Ditton form was represented by the fancied Harbinger, whilst Calypso Bay had looked useful when hunting up Sopranist and Native Ruler at Newmarket. With the addition of Asateer and the Aidan O’Brien representative Changingtheguard the recipe was complete. Ryan Moore, who had Harbinger across from a wide draw early, gave this big son of Dansili every chance. Confidently ridden, Harbinger justified the hype with his big stride and once sent on, settled the issue quickly. He looks useful at worse. Changingtheguard paddled his way out of the gates but warmed to his task as the race progressed. Asateer looked an awkward and uncooperative ride whilst the course put paid to any chance Calypso Bay had. Drawn widest of all, he was given the tuck-in behind route, meaning he was a long way adrift after a couple of furlongs. Swinging wide on the bends as he failed to act on the course, his fate was soon sealed. He is better than this.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 5th:
A poor day and one that was not covered.
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TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 4th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Only seventh to the smart Raine’s Cross at Bath, Avon River was able to put his experience to good use in the Class 4 Maiden Stakes and pay a compliment to the horse that beat him easily on debut. However, it is doubtful whether he will confirm form next time with the runner-up. Paradise Dream, a big and stuffy-looking colt by Kyllachy, will derive significant improvement from this run. Looking short of peak fitness and green as the Amazon, he was unsuited by the way the race unfolded. A two-furlong sprint caught him out to a degree and he will be better when faced with a more even gallop. Although sprint-bred, he looks as if six will suit. He has a future and is one to watch out for. In third, Dream Of Gerontius was also behind Raine’s Cross at Bath. The well-touted Knightfire is a small son of Invincible Spirit that failed to impress in either the paddock or the race. The same can be said of Radio City, another to attract attention that showed little.
Division 1 of the maiden looked a decent affair. Rainbow Peak, a gelded son of Hernando, arrived from another planet to run down the Godolphin-trained Sovereign Remedy, who responded to a vigorous ride on his introduction. Montashem was a decent third, advertising the wellbeing of the Stoute yard. Invisible Man has made little improvement on his Newmarket run in fourth. The one draw was of no help but the step up in trip allied to his lofty reputation should have offset that. So far, his overall profile is unconvincing. El Loco Uno, backed to open his account at Ripon, could manage no better than fifth having travelled strongly until the last two furlongs. The form of the Ripon event is beginning to look shaky. Mared ran with plenty of promise. A fine well-grown colt, he recovered from a slow start to finish nicely and is the one to take from the race.
The second division did not look as good. Uniquely Poised caused something of an upset in beating Sam Sharp – another big-priced contender – with the favourite and now apparently exposed, Big Bay back in third.
Forgotten Voice followed up on his course win last month without the theatrics. Still green, but a striking son of Danehill Dancer, he was confidently ridden by Shane Kelly who switched him from the inner to obtain a trouble-free run. A flick of the stick settled the issue as Forgotten Voice quickened away like a smart colt. Racing from 90 today, he will be inching toward the magical mark of a hundred after this. There is a big race in this fellow. Multakka ran well from the out of form Tregoning yard to take second and should win in his grade before too long. A very taking winner outclassed the rest.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
The win of Crown in the Class 5 maiden says little for those she beat. The second, Tawaabb, should find a race.
Course and distance winner Trans Siberian had his chance in the Class 4, particularly as the ground was in his favour and he was on a winning mark. He made a bold bid to make all and soon had the field strung out, but Martyr caught him inside the last furlong.
A heavily backed Desert Creek won the Class 3 Handicap from what is now obviously a generous handicap mark of 79. There is talk of Royal Ascot but this mark is likely to be significantly adjusted in the immediate future. Emirates Roadshow, the only of today’s contenders backed to beat him, was second. In the light of such strong opposition, conceding weight, Wannabe King was up against it, but after such a good run behind Makaamem at Newbury his finishing position of sixth was disappointing.
The Andrew Balding yard marches on. Once-raced Farleigh got the better of Formula in the maiden with Voortrekker a promising third. The fourth, Nasayem has the ability to win a handicap. After a promising debut, Zouk, although not having the cleanest of runs, has not made the anticipated improvement. The form from his race at Ripon, won by Mister Dee Bee, is looking moderate.
At BEVERLEY, Maidtorun won a keenly contested auction maiden from the newcomer The Hermitage who battled in typical Mark Johnston style. Petrocelli, the recipient of a nice introduction at Leicester behind King’s Approach, set the benchmark but was not quite up to the task.
Kings Of Leo [a filly despite the epithet] seems to have derived plenty from her initial outing at Windsor. She won cosily from Angel Of Fashion [ten lengths behind Walkingonthemoon] and Six Wives, who was certainly not knocked about in third and should be winning before long. Kings Of Leo is likely to take her chance later in the week at Chester – a track that should suit.
Badiat Alzaman had the misfortune to bump into a useful type last time in Leahurst. She made no mistake in the median auction but in fairness the opposition was only average.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 3rd:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS :
Not having watered and without the forecast rain – now, there’s a surprise – the ground promised to be fast. As a result, firm ground specialists, Dansili Dancer and Hatton Flight were the obvious two in the Class 2 Handicap. Dansili Dancer had an 8lbs pull for a length with Hatton Flight that gave him the mathematical advantage. This was a race comprising of horses on first name terms with the handicapper. Nothing appeared to have an obvious edge although the ground was likely to play a major part. Hatton Flight is clearly improving fast as he shrugged off the weight differential to rattle off a hat trick, beating Redesignation and Boz. The latter has run well after a lengthy absence. Dansili Dancer arrived on the scene racing out of the dip, but was unable to find that extra that would have made the difference. For a seven-year-old, there was no disgrace in this. Night Crescendo and Resplendent Light were the next two to finish.
DAHLIA STAKES (Group 3): A disappointing turn out for this with last year’s winner, Heaven Sent, a mare well capable in this grade, apparently gifted an easy opportunity to repeat last year’s success. You can set your watch by this mare; although this may not have been one of her best performances, she was too good for Casilda and the invariably disappointing Barshiba. It is difficult to make too much of this although Casilda is a fine scopey filly, currently rated 90, who made the running and kept on stoutly. We may not have seen the best of her.
1,000 Guineas (Group 1): Rainbow View’s moment of truth: outstanding as a juvenile but a filly having to prove she could transfer that to her second season. Still on the small side, she is strong, looked fit, less worked up than at times and flowed to the start on the fast ground. Serious Attitude looked dull in her coat and as if she had failed to grow from last year. It explained her market drift as no paddock watcher could give her a tick. The giant Devotee and Cuis Ghaire were ponyed to the start. Shimah is a small, neat attractive daughter of Storm Cat. Heart Shaped looked as if she had grown since last year and was very fit. Ghanaati created something of a shock. A filly not seen until September at Kempton where she followed up a third with a maiden win over Laudatory in October, she is a tall good looking filly that became the first Classic winner to make her debut on turf. Always prominent, she quickened out of the dip to hold Cuis Ghaire. Super Sleuth was last to leave the gates and was switched to deliver a late challenge despite looking uncomfortable on the ground. Hers was a fair performance in third. Heart Shaped did well in fourth. She is tough and has made giant physical strides since last season. Fast ground does suit her so it would be unwise to expect much improvement on this. Next came Rainbow View who simply failed to pick up although she stayed on. It was plain she hated the ground on the homeward journey, but she was not the only one that struggled on it. The understandable gamble to give this a go has not paid off. It is almost certain that her dominance over her sex is at an end. Penny’s Gift ran an honest sixth. Of the rest, Serious Attitude failed to stay, as did Shimah. Lahaleeb needs give and Devotee finished a long last. As a Classic, it did not look that strong. The winner is entitled to improve with racing but will struggle to stay further than ten furlongs. The rest are what-you-see-what-you-get fillies.
Seventeen went to post for the Class 2 Handicap over six furlongs after four withdrawals. Morning money for Carleton was understandable after a promising run at Windsor on Monday but he was treading in much deeper waters here. He was one of those that did not take part. The ground sorted out several of these. Countdown and Fullandby were last and next to last on unsuitable ground and their names should have been added to the list of defectors. At the other end, Evens And Odds roared back to form after hinting such an eventuality was likely when third to Palace Moon. This is another triumph for Dandy Nicholls. He has managed to get a tune out of a horse that was a serious under-achiever until switching to his yard. Evens And Odds skated away and obviously, this win pays a significant compliment to Palace Moon. Thebes was a surprising second ahead of Exclamation, who possibly should have finished second but would not have been the winner. Travelling strongly throughout, Exclamation had to be angled for a run and stayed on strongly. Possibly, he wants seven as this is the second time he has produced at the end of his race. Two hard runs in quick succession mean a break is in order. Orpsie Boy was once again close up in fourth.
The newcomers in the Class 2 Maiden were a good-looking selection. All the talk was of Radiohead, an April Johannesburg colt. He fluffed the start, was awkward in the early stages as they kicked up dust as if extras in a Western riding into town from the prairie. A combination of greenness and the fast ground meant it took an age for him to find his stride, but he made up plenty of ground to deliver a strong challenge to the filly, High Spice. Spencer accepted defeat inside the last and Radiohead may have finished sore. High Spice, a strong filly with a dirt pedigree, handled the conditions and dug in when the colt came at her. On this sort of ground, she merits serious consideration in decent company. Radiohead will strip wiser next time and hopefully will emerge unscathed from this experience. Izaaj, an early foal, was third ahead of Ejaab. Once again the ground did not help their causes and they were not knocked about.
PRETTY POLLY STAKES (Listed Race): Two Montjeu fillies, Take The Hint and Three Moons, battled this out. They coped the best on this quick and ever-quickening ground. As a Pivotal, Moneycantbuymelove will do better when she has a little juice to work with, but she ran on well for third ahead of The Miniver Rose. Both fillies consolidated their form at the Craven meeting when behind Nahaam. Golden Stream ticks all the boxes in the parade ring but is still slightly on the leg. She hated this ground and Ryan Moore was quick to ease her down when it was apparent she was going nowhere. She is better than this.
By now it was clear fast ground was having a major effect. Four of the intended runners for the Class 2 Handicap were withdrawn, including the fancied Marching Time. Takaatuf, third in an above average handicap at Leicester won by King’s Destiny that has thrown up a winner and the runner-up in the Esher Cup, made all and found more when tackled by recent gambled-on Beverley winner, Dubai Crest. The winner is a lengthy Dubai Destination colt with plenty of scope who should continue to give a good account of himself.
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
The first division of the six-furlong maiden looked the weaker of the two. Romanticize, an unraced Kyllachy filly, was reluctant to load – possibly only one chance away from being taken away – but having got detached early steamrollered home to win going away. Cape Melody was an undistinguished second ahead of George Thisby who was second to Makaamem on debut but unable to run to that form next time. The Desert Saint was a close fourth. In the absence of inspiration, they made the Jeremy Noseda-trained Zip Lock favourite. He showed little, although the stable is not at full strength yet and he did not look at home on the ground. Even so, he was beaten a long way in a poor event.
The second division centred round the Godolphin runner, Hajoum. This son of Exceed and Excel had finished second to recent winner Aakef last year and came here slapping the only rateable form on the table. He looked outstanding and as if he had done plenty of work. Well away, he led two out but the tank emptied quickly and he failed to quicken. Rapid Water, by Anabaa out of Lochsong, lengthened to pass Hajoum. Only small in comparison, the winner has improved markedly on his only start at two when beaten ten lengths at Newmarket. He could be of interest in a handicap. Hajoum looked slow; Hightime Heroine finished nicely under tender handling; Bahkov should win a small handicap on this evidence.
Instalment beat some better-weighted opponents in the Class 2 Handicap from a mark of 99. In a bunched finish, Timeteam and Cheviot were close in second and third, as was Global City in fourth. Squeezed for room inside the last furlong when merely staying on strongly, this was a promising reappearance. Out of a Shirley Heights mare, he should benefit from a step up in trip and could win a decent handicap over seven furlongs – possibly at York in a fortnight’s time.
Kurtanella was far and away the paddock pick in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. A lengthy attractive daughter of Pastoral Pursuits, she was last early but as the field fanned across the field two out, she came to stake a claim. Changing her legs on this fast ground, not handling the track that well, she got the message inside the final furlong to hunt up Lingfield winner Leleyf. She should know more next time when she can be placed to win. Mrs Boss was third.
An expensive failure at Brighton, Brunston made amends in the Class 4 Handicap. Creeping in off bottom weight from a mark of 74 and stepped up to ten furlongs, he beat a moderate bunch headed by Barwell Bridge.
Clowance House made hard work of recording a double for the Charlton stable in the following maiden. Long odds on, he eventually gained the upper hand over Talimos – a debutant from the Beckett yard. Third at Newbury to Sight Unseen and as a juvenile to Your Old Pal, this should have been a cakewalk.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 2nd:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
Suffolk Stakes (Handicap) (Class2): Confront was considered as a possible Classic contender this time last year. In the event, he saw the racecourse only twice: disappointing as favourite for the Greenham followed by only an okay run in a valuable handicap at Great Leighs. Now gelded and back on turf, he defied top weight and a mark of 105 to beat some smart handicappers. Once in flight, he was not stopping and won like the horse he once promised to be. Viva Vettori, fit from two recent runs at Kempton, was a fair second ahead of Kay Gee Be, who has performed well for new handler William Jarvis. As is so often the case, Flipando was unlucky. He probably would not have beaten the winner but had to be switched twice and with this fast surface in his favour, finished strongly. It is early in the afternoon to start making predictions as regards the draw, but on this evidence, the stands’ side is the place to be. Therefore, in fifth, Bazergan has probably run a few pounds above the bare form – which considering his efforts on the all-weather is something of a surprise. King Charles can be marked up on this run as he experienced trouble. Proponent and Foolin Myself were wasting their time on this fast surface.
JOCKEY CLUB STAKES (Group 2) (Class 1): With the defection of All The Aces and the continued sequence of Spanish Moon, putting in one good one bad run – in this case as he refused to enter the stalls it was no run at all – Bronze Canyon beat his two remaining opponents. Spanish Moon obviously ran a cracker in Dubai but this is the third time he has declined to start. This was a valuable win for Bronze Canyon, who will get few easier tasks at this level. Casual Conquest was returning after finishing third in the Epsom Derby and second in the Irish equivalent. Said to be only 80 percent fit by his trainer; nevertheless, he should have won this to justify the high hopes entertained. Plainly, he disliked the ground. There is also the suspicion he may not have stayed this trip. It will require more than a 20 percent improvement to include him in the reckoning for any future Group 1s.
2000 GUINEAS STAKES (Group 1): Those that shone in the paddock were Evasive – who won it at the walk but there was the small matter of the race to consider. He was carrying some condition but he is very powerful. Sea the Stars is a fine big individual; Delegator looked fit, Gan Amhras hard-trained but there is not a lot of him. The O’Brien pair, Mastercraftsman and Rip Van Winkle both got warm. Murtagh took Rip Van Winkle down slowly. Lord Shanakill looks like a sprinter and ran like one. The pace was generous without being frenetic. At the bushes, first Evasive, then Delegator came there very strongly looking likely to win. Evasive blew up big time, fading into sixth. This son of Elusive City has had a well-publicised interrupted preparation and will be a different proposition next time. All his wins have been at seven; it could be that a mile stretches him at present, but that is pure conjecture. Delegator took it up for a few strides but it was Sea The Stars that delivered the lethal challenge to win going away in the style of a genuine Group 1 winner. A half-brother to Galileo, but by Cape Cross, the Derby trip is not a given for him, but he should get at least ten furlongs. At this stage he looks a very good winner of the season’s first Classic. There should be more to come, particularly if he can harness his speed over further. Those supporting him for the Derby are relying on the dam – Urban Sea supplying the stamina influence. Delegator had every chance but the winner had too much speed in the last furlong. This is his trip and as good as he is – which is fair enough one has to say. Gan Amhras ran very well in third considering he was off the bridle a long way out. He kept beavering away, clinging on to third place. He will presumably go to Epsom and is the one from this race that will stay the trip, but he lacks the scope of a couple of those close to him. Rip Van Winkle made up plenty of ground back in fourth. He should stay further; however, like the winner is not guaranteed to get the Derby trip. Whatever the future holds, considering this was only his fourth experience, this was a top class effort and quality races await. Mastercraftsman did get very warm underneath the saddle and it is tempting to think we have seen the best of him. After Evasive came Pure Poetry and Monitor Closely. The rest were out of their depth. So, possibly a Guineas that poses more questions than it answers. We know we have seen at least five good horses. Of those, only Gan Amhras is a definite Derby contender based on stamina. But if they stay, then Sea The Stars and Rip Van Winkle could be exceptional prospects. At present, Irish form looks stronger than the English does.
PALACE HOUSE STAKES (Group 3) (Class 1): Not the best line-up for this sprint, but it was won in tidy fashion by the three-year-old, Amour Propre, a Paris House colt with knee action that suggests this surface is not ideal. He has plenty of speed that enabled him to burst through when meeting the rising ground. Progressive last year, his campaign as a juvenile culminated in a win in the Group 3 Cornwallis Stakes at Ascot. This is not a race to get carried away with. Hoh Hoh Hoh was second with the decent Borderlescott third on ground and over a trip that is not ideal. Strike The Deal made up ground in the closing stages and probably requires at least six. He should win a decent sprint this season. Rievaulx World and Rowe Park were next with King’s Apostle putting in strong work in the closing stages to end up seventh. His was a fair run from his 6lb penalty. The winner will need to better this if he is to clash swords successfully with the likes of Overdose. Chief Editor suffered a fatal heart attack in running.
Infiraad made light of his task in the Class 2 Handicap from a mark of 90. A winner of his maiden at the Craven meeting from Invincible Heart and Euston Square, this was a weak handicap by Newmarket standards, but Infiraad won very easily. Firebet was an honest but outclassed second ahead of Wildcat Wizard. The winner may go on from here but has already put himself in the firing line with a mark that is heading toward the mid-to-high nineties.
Newmarket Stakes (Listed Race): Your Old Pal recovered the sort of form he displayed as a juvenile, leaving a run in the soft at Newbury behind him. He got the better of a protracted struggle up the hill with Palavacini, and it appears this livelier ground has made all the difference to their showing last time. Spring Of Fame ran to form in third, ahead of Close Alliance who made the running before the sprint to the line. Heliodor found disappointingly little having travelled well, whilst Sopranist, who beat Native Ruler at the Craven, has had a touch of sore shins and it showed. Unbalanced and feeling the ground, running him here was questionable. Providing he can recover, he is better than this showing suggests.
By now, the ground was quick. Mistakes as regards runners that should have stayed in their boxes had already been made. As an Oasis Dream, Photographic was at sea on the ground, persistently changing her legs but her class got her through. Running her was a gamble (she has plenty of knee), but it came off. It would be unwise to ask her to handle this kind of ground on a regular basis. Her mark of 84 was generous but will be raised after this. It was a good performance and she is useful. Shampagne and Ave both had their chances and delivered challenges that seemed likely to prevail, but neither could usurp the courageous winner. Akhenaten – another with an action suggesting he wants some ease in the ground – needs to be cut some slack from the handicapper. A mark of 93 is too high, but he should have his day in a handicap when the ground changes.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
A well-backed Mystery Star took his time to get on top in the Class 3 Handicap but ultimately won decisively. A son of Kris Kin, the firm ground was not a problem but a slow pace did not suit. He was forging away at the end in the manner of one that should stay further. Five moderate opponents followed – King Olav narrowly getting the better of Jabal Tariq for second.
Born Tobouggie is making life difficult for herself by insisting on leading. She got away with it last time at Kempton, but in this Listed Race her rivals were alive to her, not allowing her much peace. She made it at a keen pace, handling this tricky course well, but had to fight off the attentions of Scuffle and Perfect Star, That done, as she quickened again over a furlong out, she was a sitting duck for a finisher and this case there were two – Eva’s Request, who swept past, and then Lady Francesca. Born Tobouggie has confirmed Kempton form with Perfect Star and Scuffle, but as predicted after Kempton, she needs to give herself a chance on turf. Eva’s Request is capable on her day, something that is not always easy to predict. Plenty of poor runs punctuate good ones that have occurred most notably at Nad Al Sheba and Ascot. Lady Francesca, a close second to Bothy last time, ought to be breaking her duck before long.
Aye Aye Digby leant on the runner-up, Rash Judgement, impeding him in the last furlong of the Class 4 Handicap. I thought that Rash Judgement was a shade unlucky as he was itching to have a stab at Aye Aye Digby but simply ran out of room.
Di Stefano clearly failed to act on the course and looked ungainly on the fast ground to boot in the Class 5 Maiden. However, even making allowances, he became another disappointment from the Newbury maiden won by Walkingonthemoon. Another major flop was the eventual favourite, Reddy To Star who missed the break. Over the minimum trip on fast ground at Goodwood, that is tantamount to putting a loaded pistol to your head. Presumably, this son of Redback is capable of better. The race did not look that good. It went to Kirsty’s Boy who had been beaten eleven lengths by Star Rover at Kempton. Oil Strike finished fastest of all in second and would have won in another fifty yards. Admin shaped reasonably well in third. An early foal, connections need to find a suitable race as soon as possible.
Devil To Pay landed a gamble in the Class 5 Handicap, taking an age to engage top gear. He was going away in the end and will stay further. It is difficult to know what he beat.
The Class 5 Maiden looked ordinary. It went to Sir Isaac who had finished last of fifteen at Newmarket in August. She struck late to inch out Mabuya and Farncombe. The last-named had finished five lengths behind Danehill’s Pearl in the Bridget Maiden at Newbury. This run is an inconclusive indication of the worth of that race. Perfect Secret turned in a nice introduction in fourth and a small race should be hers for the taking. Defector ran like an idiot. This was his chance but he pulled, lugging his jockey all over the place. This was a silly place to send a great big slab of a thing, but on this evidence, although a flat track will help, he cannot be entertained even if gifted with a ten lengths start next time.
A Class 3 handicap ended the card. Cake, a fast filly on her day, poached the rail and held on to halt a losing run stretching back to August when a two-year-old. Little Pete had caught the eye at Epsom and did so again on this similar track. There is no particular evidence suggesting he needs a downhill dash – his wins having come at Haydock and Kempton. He was getting to Cake in the closing stages, giving the impression that six would suit him better. Rocker was a close third ahead of Elhamri who tends to run one good and three bad.
THIRSK RACING RESULTS:
Two poor events opened the card. Here Now And Why beat two potential platers that were off the bridle by halfway and never looked likely to cause the winner the slightest trouble.
The maiden for older horses was little better but at least contained more than three runners. Lasso The Moon threw it away by wandering about and failing to knuckle down when challenged. Haljaferia took advantage but some moderate rivals were stacked up close behind.
It was clear that the strongly-fancied Palacefield was struggling from some way out in the Class 4 Maiden. Second to Negotiation at Yarmouth, he ran below that form when coming off second best in a close tussle with Ishe Mac. Fantasy Land in third ran a lot better than when supported at Newbury in the Bridget Maiden.
The win of Flawed Genuis in the Thirsk Hunt Cup may have something to do with the re-application of a tongue-tie. Tricky but talented, he was on his best behaviour to squeeze through a gap and beat Webbow, Bencoolen and Majuro.
Little else was noted at the meeting. Mandurah broke with tradition, winning the sprint from the far side. Hysterical Lady strung out her rivals in the Class 5 Handicap. As a lightly raced filly, she may be capable of following up.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS:
We can safely label Lees Anthem as a nutter. Not without ability, he crashed through the rails when mounting a challenge on his debut at Newcastle and having hit the front in the maiden tonight, curled up and again wobbled all over the place like a drunken sailor, meaning his jockey could only cling on for dear life. Maybe Lees Anthem has a heart problem; whatever, he is not a horse to place any faith in. He is likely to be gelded then disappear from the radar. Assuming he avoids ending up on a plate somewhere on the continent, he is likely to change hands and win on the all-weather at a huge price when we have all forgotten about him. King Of Axum got the better of a close finish with the filly Little Scotland.
High Standing won the Class 3 Handicap in neat style. He has a good record but looks as if he does not stand too much racing. Wyatt Earp, who invariably needs his first run of the season, stayed on in third. He is a standing dish after such circumstances and may be of interest at somewhere like Beverley next time. Predominately, I was watching this to see how Chartist performed on the assumption that the five at Chester – where he is entered on Wednesday – would suit him better than this six. Unfortunately, he was a long looking last having shown up until halfway, with his jockey easing off as if something was amiss. Even if fulfilling his engagement at Chester next week, he would be hard to recommend.
A fancied Exceptional Art, returning to action after finishing down the field in last year’s Prix Morny, did not entirely convince in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Carrying his head in the air and running keenly in the early part of the race, despite knuckling down inside the last furlong he was unable to get to grips with Saucy Brown. However, it was a close run thing. War Native completed a line of three inside the final furlong.
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TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 1st:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
With the ground firming up on turf, division 1 of the Class 5 maiden turned out to be a warm affair. There were strong messages for three runners, all from major yards. Euston Square had run with promise on his two runs – once as a juvenile, more recently at Newmarket when third to Infraad and Invincible Heart – form that sent out conflicting bulletins in view of the runner-up’s record. However, Euston Square had moved into contention from last place at Newmarket so the run was probably better than it looked. Makaam had apparently improved since chasing home subsequent winner Crown Choice, and then there was Tryst who, as a four-year-old that had been second in a division of last year’s Wood Ditton, had the weakest form of the three but the rub was he had been working at home with Guineas contender Evasive. They are three nice sorts. Despite looking rusty, Tryst engaged top gear inside the last furlong to deny Makaam close home. The runner-up had secured first run but could not quite repel the winner. Caught flat-footed at the turn, Euston Square finished in style. A mile will suit him better; a remark that also applies to Tryst. As the betting suggested, these three were clear.
In contrast to the opening event, the Class 4 Fillies’ Stakes for two-year-olds looked moderate. Unraced Art Jewel won despite flashing her tail from some way out and whirling it when given several reminders by Jamie Spencer. The once-raced Any Day pressed her inside the final furlong with Forget in third. The prospects for the winner are limited as long as she impersonates a windmill.
Secret Witness won a much weaker division two of the maiden won by Tryst. A debutant by Pivotal, he made hard work of a simple task but significant improvement is expected. He is a name to remember if his entourage’s assessment of him is any near accurate. Hypnotist flashed home late. Well beaten by Debussy over ten furlongs, all his best form has been around a mile. He should win a handicap from his present mark of 72, assuming it remains unchanged and his trainer is prepared to jettison some fancy plans.
Swiss Diva looked good when winning the Class 3 Handicap from a mark of 85. Tucked in behind the leaders and produced down the straight, she won easing down. It is tempting to label this as only an average handicap. Crystal Moments in second does not appeal as a well-treated animal from 90. Harry Patch is a fine robust gelding that cannot fail but impress. His giant stride took him to the front but eventually he dropped back to finish third. It is not encouraging to see Never Lose in fourth so the taking run of Major Phil in fifth may need to be tempered. Having his first run since December, he freewheeled in to fifth without any serious questions being asked. Currently rated 79, he will be sharper next time.
It is a struggle to make too much of the Class 2 Handicap. Abbondanza racked up the hat trick from a less than willing Capricorn Run. Ceremonial Jade was third. Mastership made up late headway for fourth with Titan Triumph – back on his favoured left-handed track – a listless sixth of seven.
King Of Dixie has always been something of an enigma; but has talent. Connections deserve applause for resisting what must have been a temptation to geld this good-looking example of Kingmambo. He does not always hold his form and is better encountering this sort of company. He is something of a twilight horse but made light work of the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. Fullback was second and Mahadee third.
Lady Jane Digby made the best of a soft opportunity in the Class 2 Handicap. Several of her opponents failed to fire or may have their days on another occasion. Safari Sunup got the better of a close tussle with Ancient Lights for second. Ancient Lights, so impressive on last year’s debut, showed signs of encouragement in third as did stable mate Montbretia. She looked as if she needed this (reflected in the market), swung wide on the turn and from thereafter the race was lost. She finished nicely under hands and heels and should be sharper next time. A mark of 94 gives her a chance at this level. Beauchamp Viceroy continues to disappoint. This represented a chance for him today at the weights, but he dropped away tamely. He has not won since his juvenile days – a pattern that looks unlikely to be broken on this evidence.
Fortuni made the most of an opportunist ride to shoot clear from the turn, sealing victory in the Class 4 Handicap. He obviously stays well and this was not only a clever ride from Sanders, but a good piece of placing from Sir Mark Prescott. Sehoy had too much too do from the home turn but did close on the eased-down winner. Once again, he did not give his jockey much help in that he hung and was awkward on the turn. On his last effort round here he failed to negotiate the bend. Therefore, perhaps a reoccurrence of sorts could have been anticipated and he should have been closer to the pace. Curacao was another outfoxed by the way things panned out. There was shrewd support for him and he may prove it was justified next time. Scene Two ran in snatches; this was a big step up in trip after he won over seven furlongs last time. This was probably a strong handicap.
MUSSELBURGH RACING RESULTS:
As reported last time, Saucy Girl is only small. After an initial run that was merely adequate, she failed to cope with the tacky conditions in the Class 4 maiden. The event went to another filly in Dispol Keasha, who is much more substantial. Ventura Cove was closing inside the final furlong with Saucy Girl only third.
Wind Star ran well enough on his reappearance in the Class 4 Handicap to suggest he may win something soon. Only fourth behind the improving Sirvino and Royal Amnesty, he should better this before long.
The major event on the card – the Class 2 Conditions Stakes – provided a success for the three-year-old Spin Cycle who returned to form to beat some smart older sprinters. A fit Cheveton was narrowly denied, ahead of the lightly-raced City Dancer (another three-year-old) and Hamish McGonagall who was suited by the conditions. This was his first run of the season and one he is entitled to improve upon.
PUNCHESTOWN RACING RESULTS:
Jumping and non-jumping fans were treated to a tremendous race for the Grade 1 Champion Hurdle. But for a sticky jump at the last hurdle, Punjabi may have consolidated his Cheltenham win but lost some momentum, allowing Solwit to take another bite at the cherry. Turning for home, all the big players were on the bridle and this race sets a fair standard. It reinforces that Solwit’s win at Aintree (decried by yours truly) was no fluke and that Punjabi – on unsuitable ground – is tough as teak. Quevega justified this step up in grade by finishing third ahead of Sizing Europe who once again failed to find what he promised. That said this was a good effort from a horse with a delicate constitution. The plan is to send him chasing next season.
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