May Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

BUSH TELEGRAPH

MAY


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 31st May

CHANTILLY HORSE RACING TIPS

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 30th May

 

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS

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

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

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

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

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

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

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS

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

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

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

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS

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

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

Possibly multiples incorporating some of the other mentions.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 29th May

 

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIP:

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

YARMOUTH HORSE RACING TIP:

4.20: Networker is overdue a win.

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 28th May

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWCASTLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

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


Bush Telegraph

WEDNESDAY 27th May

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

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

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

BEVERLEY RACING TIPS:

6.20: Everaard is a selection in this.

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

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


Bush Telegraph

TUESDAY 26th May

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


Bush Telegraph

MONDAY 25th May

 

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

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

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

GOODWOOD RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

 

CHEPSTOW RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 24th May

CURRAGH HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

Famous Name the suggestion on the day.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 23rd May

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

CURRAGH HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS

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

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

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS

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

2.05: Leahurst is highly regarded and should go well.

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

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

BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 22nd May

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

8.00: Full Of Love carries similar stable confidence.

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 21st May

 

HAYDOCK HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 20th May

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRPH

TUESDAY 19th May

 

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

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

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 18th May

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BATH:

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WOLVERHAMPTON:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WINDSOR:

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday 17th May

 

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LONGCHAMP

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY May 16th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWBURY

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

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

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

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

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET

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

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

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

 


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY May 15th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET:

3.35: Silaah could be the answer to this handicap.

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWBURY:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY May 14th 2009

 

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

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

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT SALISBURY:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NEWMARKET:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY May 13th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YORK:

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

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

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

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

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BATH:

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


 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY May 12th 2009

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WARWICK:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT BEVERLEY:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LINGFIELD:

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

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


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Monday May 11th

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT YARMOUTH:

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WOLVERHAMPTON:

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT WINDSOR:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday May 10th

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LEAPARDSTOWN:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LONGCHAMP:

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Saturday 9th May

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT ASCOT:

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

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

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT NOTTINGHAM:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT HAYDOCK:

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

TODAYS HORSERACING TIPS AT LINGFIELD:

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 8th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

Elsewhere the racing makes little appeal. A few suggestions are

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

 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

THURSDAY 7th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

WEDNESDAY 6th May

CHESTER HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY 5th May

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

MONDAY 4th May

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

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

KEMPTON HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

WARWICK HORSERACING TIPS:

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

BEVERLEY HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

   SUNDAY 3rd May

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

SALISBURY HORSERACINGTIPS:

1.45: Hajoum should get off the mark in the maiden


BUSH TELEGRAPH

   SATURDAY 2nd May

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

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

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

GOODWOOD HORSERACING TIPS

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

THIRSK HORSERACING TIPS

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

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

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

DONCASTER HORSERACING TIPS

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

   FRIDAY 1st May

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

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

April Archive Free Racing tips from spy

BUSH TELEGRAPH

APRIL


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 30th April

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

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

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

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

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 29th April

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

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

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

PONTEFRACT RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

PUNCHESTOWN RACING TIPS:

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


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY 28th April

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

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

BATH RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

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

PUNCHESTOWN RACING TIPS:

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

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

BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 27th April

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

NEWCASTLE RACING TIPS:

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

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 26th April

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

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


  BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 25th April

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

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

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

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

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

 

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

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 24th April

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

So a tricky card as I write.

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY 23rd April

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 22nd April

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY 21st April

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

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

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

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

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

BATH RACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 20th April

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.50: Happy Forever looks the safest option.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY 19th April

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

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

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


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY 18th April

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

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

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

AYR RACING TIPS:

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

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 17th April

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY APRIL 16th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

RIPON RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY APRIL 15th:

NEWMARKET RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

BEVERLEY RACING TIPS:

1.30: Sharp Eclipse looks best on paper here.

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

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

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

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

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

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

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

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


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY APRIL 14th:

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

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

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

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

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

FAIRYHOUSE RACING TIPS:

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

EXETER RACING TIPS:

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


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BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 13th April:

 

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

WARWICK RACING TIPS:

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

REDCAR RACING TIPS:

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

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

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

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

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


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SUNDAY APRIL 12th:

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

3.20: Desire To Excel looks the interesting contender here. After a promising debut behind Fajaan at Newmarket, muscular problems prevented him from progressing. If they have been cured he would be dangerous in such company. If not, they have sent him a long way to find out. Striker Torres looks the only conceivable threat.

TOWCESTER RACING TIPS:

A Nicky Henderson double is envisaged here as they expect to win the first and last race. Horseford Hill in the 2.10 and Pipe Banner 5.10 are the horses in question.

Otherwise a quiet day, although there are three interesting events being staged in France today that may shed some light on future developments…


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SATURDAY APRIL 11th:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.05: One of several imponderable races today. Titan Triumph is much better suited by a left-handed turning track, so his latest run at Doncaster can be discarded. He may do better today, but wait until Chester! This is a tight race with Checklow, Cordell and Cape Hawk difficult to assess. Extraterrestrial comes out best on current form but has a killer draw.

2.40: Born Tobouggie is reported to be in good shape and is likely to attract interest this morning. Perfect Star has never won before July in the past, a record that strongly points to her being a mare that is best in the autumn. Dixey and Festoso may be better for the outing leaving Scuffle as the main danger.

3.45: Well drawn and fit Al Muheer is nothing more than a sporting selection.

4.50: Mr Willis faces a rise in grade but there was no fluke in his beating of the well fancied Fantastic Dubai last time. His mark of 76 seems reasonable.

5.55: Press The Button has some form from last year that suggests he can go well against his opponents today. A fourth to Suits Me and a third to Millville makes for good reading and accounts for a weight rise by the handicapper.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

4.05: My only reservation about easy Newbury winner Gershwin following up is the ground. By Alhaarth, he would not want it too firm and gave an indication that he was reluctant to stride out form the final fence last time despite a convincing success. However, his win that day was no surprise to his stable and if allowed to take his chance he is the one to beat.


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THURSDAY APRIL 09th:

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

Little to get excited about today:

2.10: Rare Art and Perfect Class are taken as two against the field.

2.40: Aye Aye Digby may be suited by the return to six furlongs and along with Vhujon are wishy-washy picks.

A 2×2 double the four selections comes to 4 bets. It is the only suggestion I can make today, but it is only a suggestion.


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WEDNESDAY APRIL 08th:

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

2.00: With no winners having emerged from the race Star Rover won at Kempton, he does not appeal as the type to defy a penalty. It is pure guesswork at this stage, but Gillburg – the oldest horse in the field and well bred – could be the one to lower his colours.

3.30: Fiulin may be the answer to this on the assumption the ground is on top. He has the look of a horse capable of improving as a four-year-old.

BRIGHTON RACING TIPS:

2.50: They have found a bad race for Western Roots who has only the top two to beat. Benedict Spirit has done all his winning at Southwell; the bigger danger could be Cactus King, but Western Roots may have needed his last outing and is taken to go one better in this company.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Crown Choice looks an interesting contender for this. Third on his debut at Newmarket this time last year in one of the divisions of the Wood Ditton, he clearly can go well fresh and there have been signs that Walter Swinburn’s yard is coming to hand.


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TUESDAY APRIL 07th:

PONTEFRACT RACING TIPS:

2.10: Chapter And Verse has to be the selection here, although at present I cannot back this comment up with a message. With the stable in such good form, and taking into account Chapter And Verse’s last run in October when beaten just over three lengths by Roman Republic in a race that contained several touted youngsters, he should be hard to beat.

3.10: The Clive Cox yard appear to be in good heart and their representative here, Dunno, may be worth chancing.

4.10: Roseberry fifth Albaqaa, representing Richard Fahey, another yard that has hit the ground running, looks the one to beat. Rain is forecast, which would suit Jaser who was at his best last spring in the soft. Mull Of Kintyre could go well in this company as the track will suit his style of running. Hawaass has been installed as a short price favourite but, although respected, having not been seen since June last year, he seems to be creating a market for those with more solid claims.   Punters are advised to see what the weather does before crashing in this morning.


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MONDAY APRIL 06th

Nothing to recommend on a poor day…


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SUNDAY April 5th

There is little to get excited about today, which comes as a welcome rest after what seems like a busy, and largely unrewarding, week.

At the CURRAGH, Vocalised should be good enough to win the 2.45. Considered as a Group horse after two promising runs last year, his stable are in form and this looks like an ideal stepping stone to better things.

3.45: I confess to not being sure about Mad About You over seven furlongs. This looks tough for a filly whose best form is over further. One or two of these may have too much speed for her.

4.45: Aristocrat’s third to Mourayan last year means he lines up in this maiden with by far the best credentials and it will be a surprise if he starts at odds-against.

On the domestic front, it would appear the Alan King stable feel they are poised to mop up at both Southwell and Market Rasen with the likes of  Hugo Wolf, Turkish Surprise, Sadler’s Star, Rustarix and Shilpa.


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SATURDAY April 4th

 

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

1.45: Well regarded Copper Bleu looks a standout to get punters off to a flying start. Only 3 lengths behind Go Native in the Supreme Novices’ at Cheltenham and before that having beaten Riverside Theatre, who was  fourth here yesterday in a tougher contest, he has a progressive profile.

2.15: S ong of Songs is another who is improving with each run. His strength is his jumping but his beating of Deep Purple – on a line through Planet Of Sound – makes him at least the equal of Arkle runner-up Kalahari King. He has a touch of class and looks overpriced.

2.50: I like the chance of Catch Me here. Unbeaten this season, he has been trained for this and has his optimum trip. The opposition is tough but this horse has been winning with ease in Ireland and lines up relatively fresh.

4.15: To quote Ladbrokes, everyone has a National opinion. Mine is State Of Play – enough said!

5.00: On a day where key horses could even the score between bookmakers and punters on the week, it is very hard to get away from Seven Is My Number who ran so well in the Imperial Cup and faces a drop in grade in this.

NEWCASTLE RACING TIPS:

There are messages for the Barry Hills maidens, Ruler Of All in the 4.30 and Full Of Love 5.10. From what I gather, Ruler Of All is thought to be the better prospect.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.10: It may be worth taking a small chance with Mut’ab here. This former Sandown Classic Trial runner is a big horse who may come into this season the finished article. A big price, he is put forward as an optimistic punt to take advantage of a favourable mark.

2.45: Humble Opinion is expected to go well here after a satisfactory spin round Wolverhampton last month. 3.20: Midnight Cruiser has a definite chance on his juvenile form and is the pick of Richard Hughes over Icesolator. So a mixture of some big-priced fancies and some shorter priced solid-looking bets on a day that has the shape of being more than just a bit of fun for the pinstickers. .


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FRIDAY APRIL 03rd

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

2.00: Having won three times at Musselburgh, Red Moloney may be most equipped to handle this tight track. His yard will be grateful of a winner after a quiet year. Red Moloney does have something to find on Sommersby on Cheltenham running but this track could make the difference. American Trilogy has plenty to do with his penalty and against such opposition.

2.35: Herecomesthetruth appeals as the type to take Aintree in his stride. Although closely matched with Massini’s Maguire on their clash at Sandown, his overall profile is the more progressive.

3.10: The stable are confident Voy Por Ustedes will win, but he is priced accordingly and I have always regarded him as being overated. Nacarat’s Racing Post win is suspect. Tidal Bay has yet to convince. I don’t know…

4.20: There is a loud shout for Karabak and he looks the logical call. He faces tough opponents and his price gives little away, but he ought to justify the hype today.

4.55: These kind of races are heartbreakers for punters. Mamlook clipped heels at Cheltenham and under the circumstances worked hard to get back into contention. He must have a chance.

BATH RACING TIPS:

2.10: Crown looks interesting on paper. Chicita Banana ran no more than okay at Doncaster.

4.30: There is a word for Espy here.

All in all, we face a tough day so it may be best to keep a lid on the bank!


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

THURSDAY APRIL 02nd

AINTREE RACING TIPS:

Have a care here as the script may not be followed to the letter:

2.00: Big Buck’s ought to win as he faces an easier task than at Cheltenham. Let him win; he cannot be supported at the price. Talk of Mighty Man coming back from the brink of obscurity seems fanciful.

2.35: Faced with very different conditions today and after a hard race at Cheltenham, Walkon looks a sitting duck of sorts. If he wins he deserves all the plaudits, but he faces two rivals tailor-made for Aintree in Starluck and Hebridean. If there is weakness in Starluck it may his ability to stay a truly run two miles. Hebridean, who by-passed Cheltenham for this will relish the ground and is given a narrow vote. For those taking a professional approach, it is a case of perming any one from three.

3.10: Good luck to Denman. A repitition of his run in the Gold Cup will be good enough, but this ground is not ideal and neither, I suspect, is the track. Again, he ought to win – I hope he does – but the head must rule the heart and it is a case of no bet.

4.55: Planet Of Sound is worth backing. This trip, the ground and his progressive nature all add up to a horse that can improve on his excellent third in the Arkle. He should be favourite in my opinion and will carry my cash.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

2.10: Initial reports suggest Farmer Giles will be good enough to emulate the same connections’ win in this last year.

2.45: There has to be a ground doubt over Chocolicious in this seller.

The rest of the card is interesting, but until the wellbeing of the Peter Chapple-Hyam stable is established it seems prudent to watch what seems a strong team today.

 

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

5.55: Satwa Street has been crying out for the minimum trip as he is a blitzer. He faces a couple of dark horses tonight but the trip will help.

6.55: Golden Prospect ran with considerable promise over this course and distance last time and if reproducing that effort, will be in the firing line.


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WEDNESDAY APRIL 01st

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.30: Danies Boy ran with promise on his debut at Kempton behind the useful Seek N’ Destroy. Beaten just two lengths, fitness and improvement may make him the value against his main market rivals that have yet to reappear this season.

4.30: Fantastic Dubai looks potentially lobbed in for this his handicap debut from a mark of only 67. A narrow winner of his maiden here when strongly fancied, he is better than the bare form but may be a bit of a boyo. He pulled hard and ran green and for once the handicapper has taken the run literally. Fantastic Dubai will need to be more tractable this afternoon, but for a horse considered as Greenham material by his stable he ought to be accorded the benefit of any doubt from such a lowly mark.

March Archive Free Racing tips from Spy

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MARCH


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TUESDAY MARCH 31st

At this stage FOLKESTONE is anyone’s guess.

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Dzesmin has not always created the right impression but he has ability, acts on soft and seems versatile enough to handle the Southwell surface. Now down amongst the dead men in terms of rating, he ought to be good enough to land the opener.

2.40: Rebel Duke is presented with a clear cut opportunity in a race that to my mind concerns only three runners. Although not especially well treated in general from a mark of 83, Whiskey Creek has a definite chance and along with unknown quantity on the surface, Tajneed, looks likely to present the main stumbling block.

4.55: The improving Statute Book – a course and distance winner – will be hard to beat here. In Hunterview he faces a horse with reasonable turf form, from a yard that knows the time of day, and whose sire is responsible for winners on dirt; so there is every chance he will act. A close contest to call.


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MONDAY MARCH 30th

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.00: Set The Trend, a fine big son of Reset, handled this track well last time despite a rough passage. In a race that contains the usual suspects, he ought to add to his tally without too much trouble.

3.00: At this time of year late foals in two-year-old races are at a disadvantage. Victorian Art is the youngest filly by a day, but the Choisir filly, Emma Jean Lass is only a day behind and is a big price in the paper. She is bred to go a bit and may be value.   If there is a bet today, it is Set The Trend.


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Sunday March 29

Doncaster Horse Racing Tips

This looks a tough day by any standards. I have tackled the 4.15 at Doncaster but it does not have a good shape to it.

Palace Moon is obviously interesting – something picked up by the bookmakers. Northern Fling has solid form at this level but the fact that Adrian Nicholls rides Evens And Odds could be interesting. Now with Dandy Nicholls, this is undoubtedly a well handicapped horse capable of running up a sequence if his astute trainer can find the key to him. Of late this horse has been a massive under achiever, hence his generous mark based on his best form. He is one to watch, but on flimsy evidence it is hard to recommend a bet on such a complex sprint handicap so early in the season.

4.50: Orbitor and Gilano Hernando look the interesting contenders, but they are the first two in the betting so such observation provides little in the way of original thought.   All in all a quiet day…


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Sat 28 March

After last night’s bullish optimism, this morning’s cold light brings a finger of realism. Today’s cards are tricky, but not without opportunities. Here goes, with a slightly abridged version after yesterday’s gushing, And Another Thing… Great leveller this business:

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

2.45: This may be tough but the quality horses should rise to the top. They are Spectiat, Slugger O’Toole,  Manassas and Fireside. The last two are unproven in competitive handicaps and are ‘ghost’ horses. Slugger O’Toole looks on the upgrade and will do for me.

3.55: Again the Lincoln (not normally a race I would consider too much) looks as if it will be dominated by the quality contenders. To my mind these are Swop and Expresso Star. Fit from an emphatic win in Dubai, Swop should be hard to beat.

4.30: London Bridge has clear form claims for this maiden after a troublesome passage on his debut at Newbury last October. The horse that beat him had form with Donatavium and Kites Wood. Above Average is expected to run well at a price but this looks a race with London Bridge’s name on it.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS

3.00: Cape Express is strongly fancied. He might well win, but 5/2 about a dual Wolverhampton winner racing from a mark of 96 in a competitive handicap…you can fill in the blanks! Whitcombe Minister remains the selection despite a dodgy draw.

3.35: Bronze Cannon did well enough last week in a slowly run event to suggest he can take this.

NAD AL SHEBA HORSE RACING TIPS

1.40: Godolphin seem to feel Gayego may beat two Step Salsa, in which case he wins. At face value his last run was excellent.

2.15: Naval Officer looks overpriced over this extra yardage against Desert Party.

2.55: Tough specialist dirt sprinter Big City Man is taken to beat  Indian Blessing.

3.55: Mike de Kock’s remarks that Bankable may peak for Hong Kong are off putting for a horse I considered to hold a great chance in a wide open contest. Archipenko may come out on top but it is hard to call.

Best on the day: Gayego, Big City Man, London Bridge; with small multiple bets suggested on the priced horses: Slugger O’Toole, Whitcombe Minister, Swop and Naval Officer.


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Friday 27th March

ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

Philip Hobbs has his team in good order just now and must have high hopes of a double on this card.

4.40: Last year’s winner, Out The Black, looks to have every chance of lifting this prize again after a decent effort at Doncaster in February.

5.15: Barnhill Brownie is perhaps the more interesting from the same stable in what appears a weak event, certainly in comparison to the company he has raced against. A most likeable sort with a will to win who is only lightly raced and partnered by a top conditional, he has to be the call.

I am resisting any temptation to add to this list today as tomorrow appears to be bursting with betting opportunities.


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Thursday 26th March

SOUTHWELL HORSE RACING TIPS:

4.05: You Avin A Laugh narrowly missed out on the money last time over five furlongs. He gave the impression that an extra furlong may have made the difference, so it is arguable this slower surface will suit. However, those unproven at Southwell are always dubious propositions and his pedigree  is not an obvious dirt one.

4.40: This looks to rest between course winner Calculating and Rough Sketch. Although a winner over two miles on Polytrack, there is no guarantee Calculating will stay the trip on this surface. Rough Sketch on the other hand looks as if it may improve him. Caught out for pace in a slowly run affair won by subsequent winner Shanafarahan last time, he is taken to outstay Calculating despite what appears an unwarranted 5lbs weight rise from the handicapper.

CARLISLE HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.35: The booking of Timmy Murphy for Checkerboard could be significant here. Many of Howard Johnston’s inmates had been held up by the weather so it seems reasonable to expect improvement from Checkerboard who appears to jump well.


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Wednesday 25th March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.20: Some Time Good showed promise when fifth to subsequent Newmarket winner Heliodor at Goodwood in September. With his yard in fine form, he could be the answer here.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.50: There is a word from Lambourn for Seek N’ Destroy from the in-form Barry Hills yard. He is a tricky horse to assess as his juvenile form gave little away, except to demonstrate he possessed ability. Paper favourite, Pedasus looks beatable, but Seek N’ Destroy bumps into a couple of likely lads that are unraced and hail from big yards tonight. He is certainly one to include in calculations.


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Tuesday 24th March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

There is a message for Muraweg in the 2.50 at Lingfield today. He likely to be a short-price. Personally I am taking the opportunity of what I consider to be a poor day’s racing to take a break. There should be plenty of better opportunities in the pipeline over the coming weeks and months.


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Monday 23rd March

KEMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

It is not hard to fancy horses here – You’re The Top – Dreamy Sweeney – possibly Randwick Roar – but the prices are unappealing and doubts persist. Two heavy falls for Dreamy Sweeney – and in the case of Randwick Roar regarding the proficiency of his jumping.

PLUMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: First Avenue ran well enough on soft ground on his debut and has been well-schooled since. However, a catalogue of excuses trail in his wake and Know The Law may be a safer option for those wishing to pull up their money.

WOLVERHAMPTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

Claimer and Selling day. Mick Easterby is always a man to be feared at this level. In Western Art in the 2.20 and Danish Art in the 2.50 he fields two very interesting contenders. The fact Western Art only went through the ring for 2,500 gns tends to be off-putting until one has a second look at the owner, who in fact retained the horse! Two possible gambles.   However, we are dealing with dubious possibilities that may only become apparent as stronger contenders when the money is down. With a big day looming on Saturday in preparation for Aintree, there is no need to guess for anything other than shirt buttons just now.


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Sunday 22nd March

A quiet day is reported from this quarter, making it an ideal to take a break. A busy time is ahead!


Bush Telegraph

Saturday 21st March

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.05: Judd Street returns to this country after three excellent runs in Dubai, any one of which would be good enough to win this. It is hard to see his latest defeat by the high class J J The Jet Plane (beaten only just over four lengths) being matched by today’s opponents. In great form, a spring horse with a good draw, he lines up with plenty of positives to his name.

2.35: I can give Qalahari a chance here at a big price.

3.05: The Winter Derby is simply too hard, with more potential winners of the race in the line up than losers. I expect Premio Loco to stay and clearly he has been trained with this in mind. But Re Barolo is solid, Scintillo on a roll, Suits Me and Kandidate have proven credentials. Although Bronze Cannon was unimpressive last time we saw him, his yard have kept him so one presumes he will better his abysmal last run. So a tough race best watched.

3.40: Hypnotist is a hopeful selection after a good debut in a warm maiden

5.25: Jesse James looks different class and is confidently expected to win the sundowner.

With the exception of the impeding Aintree meeting, jump racing is too complex for me at this time of year.

NEWBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.20 Strawberry does well in the spring and could go close .

2.50: Ping Pong Sivola returns to action after a hard race nine days ago at Cheltenham. The wisdom of such action is debatable.

3.30: Ravello Bay breaks blood-vessels, so not one to rely on. The list continues…

Judd Street and Jessie James for me.

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FRIDAY 20th March

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

2.10 Michel Le Bon and in the next, the 2.40, Fiftyonefiftyone both finished behind the progressive According to Dick at the last meeting. Both have their chances today. Neither will be attractively priced though, and fall into the category of being in the bleedin’ obvious. 5.00: Indian Blood could be well treated here.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.00: You Avin A Laugh could be better than so far shown and should be monitored in the betting.

2.30: Simplification has run against better class than she faces here and can be relied upon to be fit. Only the unraced Kaabari stands in her way of that first success.

4.50: The handling of Sir Liam is turning into a catalogue of misfortune. Stepped up in trip, he can win today, but is 2lbs out of the handicap. Surely a more suitable event can be found. I am becoming exasperated by events surrounding this animal and, whilst prepared to see him win, reluctant to throw any more money his way.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: Phoenix Flight won like a horse capable of better last time. But by Hawk Wing, he is stepped up to two miles tonight so it is hard to be confident.

DUNDALK RACING TIPS:

7.00: Tarousa fits the part in this, but is something of a guess on a day that requires a degree of blind faith.


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THURSDAY 19th March:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Onemix may not be the most original of selections but her second to Boscage – albeit slightly flattering as the winner ran about a bit – entitles her to break her duck in what looks a poor maiden. Boscage has confirmed his wellbeing since by winning (admittedly a weak event) from a mark of 85.

Onemix showed enough promise and it will be a surprise if her price matches that of the 9/4 quoted in the paper. She looks the bet of the day.   I can pass on two messages: Western Roots in the 6.50 at Kempton and William Bonney in the 2.30 Ludlow. Neither make enough appeal to tempt me to risk a diminishing pot at present.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Wednesday 18th March:

Jump racing today is too much of a struggle for me, but this evening’s card at Kempton is of interest.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

 4.10: Sir Liam is a winner without a penalty here and may be worth a small investment. Held-up off a slow pace last time then caught out when it increased, he was catching the winner hand-over-fist at the line, which came a few strides too soon. This is harder, but he looks primed to win and there should be more pace on today. Ideally, I would like to see him over further but feel a strong run mile-and-a-half should be adequate.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: The Kentucky Derby Challenge sees the reappearance of several interesting types. Mafaaz boasts the best form on his fifth to subsequent Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Donativum at Newmarket. Richard Hills elects to partner him in preference to Haashed, a winner in a fast time at Lingfield when creating a favourable impression. Akhenaten is another coming here with a reputation and unlike the other two, a run under his belt. In the lack of any definite pointer, a race to watch at this stage.

8.20: Interestingly, Scintillo by-passes the Winter Derby (one assumes) to contest this tonight. After a promising return, despite a chequered career, he would appear to have a big chance. He is the sort of four-year-old his excellent yard does well with. I am not put off by his win to run ration as he has often taken part in races he was incapable of winning. My one reservation is tonight’s trip. I would have thought ten furlongs would have suited better but, the Hannon stable rarely get such things wrong and I am not about to suggest they are wrong here. It is just a stone in my shoe as far as selecting him with confidence is concerned.

8.50: Merton Lad does look as if this step up in trip has already improved him. Third last time behind Dubai Storming over this distance, tonight may be his night. He should not beat Suupernoverre, but that is based on form over shorter. An 11lbs hike for Key Regard who beat yesterday’s winner, Filun, looks harsh and he will need to improve again. Merton Lad and Sir Liam are seen as value bets on a tricky day.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 17th March:

Little to mention today:

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

At SOUTHWELL, Boscage should be good enough to win this handicap if home reputation is any guide. Although only a narrow winner at Lingfield, he was green that day and should leave that run behind him. A mark of 85 does infer his usefulness, so the handicapper was presumably impressed. The fact he switches surfaces should prove no barrier as Mark Johnston never gets this wrong. That is to say, I have never noted one of his run at Southwell and get beaten because they failed to act on Fibresand.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

At KEMPTON, China Gold should win the 3.05, particularly as he receives weight from chief rival, King’s Forest. The one negative is that being by Bob’s Return, the ground may be too lively.


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Monday 16th March:

TAUNTON RACING TIPS:

2.20: Alflora is fancied here. Seems short enough after plenty of chances.

5.20: It is invariably hard to carry a penalty in bumpers, something first and second favourites, Giordano Bruno and Swansbrook attempt. The 5lbs lobbed off the Hobbs representative by the conditional rider will help, but apparently Swansbrook has improved since his last success. At the prices, neither make much appeal.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.30: Statute Book is very much on the upgrade but faces a tough task now having been hoisted to a 10lbs higher mark by the handicapper since his last win. Apparently he faces a fancied Pearl Of Manacor from a in-form stable.


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Sunday 15th March:

There are no messages or tips today.


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Saturday 14th March:

It is back to Lingfield and the Flat for me today.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.30: This tame-looking seller looks well within Sunset Boulevard’s compass. He is surely better than this.

4.05: Having tumbled in the weights since winning last March, Bee Stinger looks to have a good opportunity of getting back on the score sheet. He last won off 80 but contests this from a mark of 68. Okay, he is no longer up to defying a mark of 80 but still looks four or five pounds well in. A recent campaign that has included runs over ten furlongs (not his ideal trip) have helped settle his mark and now he returns to his ideal distance and must have a good chance.

4.40: Volito recovered from a sluggish start on debut to run with promise. He should know more today in an event that will take little winning.

5.15: Stepped up a furlong to his optimum trip after a promising second over the minimum last time to in-form Chjimes, Qadar lines up with a favourite’s chance despite the outside draw which, for a hold-up horse, may not be a disadvantage.

UTTOXETER RACING TIPS:

At UTTOXETER in the 2.35, it is possible that Bulwark may make the most of a light weight. But his record suggests he can never be considered as anything but a tenuous bet. King’s Revenge is edging toward a winning mark but is drastically raised in trip, which may not suit. After some hard battles, it could he the edge has gone from a horse whose consistency has been his own worst enemy.


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Friday March 13th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

1.30: Jumbo Rio looks the best of the Irish contingent using Ebadiyan as a guide, as he beats Lethal Weapon and these appear the best on offer from across the Irish Sea. Master Of Arts will need to break a trend if he is to win this on the back of only one run over hurdles. Invariably this is a rough race won by a streetwise hurdler, and for that reason the progressive Walkon – likely to be all the better on good ground – is taken to gain revenge on his Newbury conqueror, Zaynar, whose best form is on soft.

2.05: There is only one winner of this if he is able to replicate his Imperial Cup form and that is Dave’s Dream. However, that is not certain; but the form is strong – as confirmed by Mr Thriller’s effort on Wednesday – so he is difficult to oppose. As a betting proposition though, he makes limited appeal.

3.20: A confusing Gold Cup that is probably best watched. Possibly Air Force One should be included in perms, but it will need the principals to under-perform for him to win.

4.40: Understandably, the Pipe stable field a strong hand here. Best of their runners would appear to be Mamlook, who took the eye at Ascot last time when blowing up after looking likely to take the winner, Serebad, all the way in a valuable handicap. He has the look of the horse laid out for this, whereas several of the others give the impression of appearing as an afterthought.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

At WOLVERHAMPTON, after his third last time to Spectiat, Tourist gets his chance despite a wide draw. However, with only eight runners, he should get away with it.

Best on the day: Walkon, Mamlook and Tourist.


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Thursday March 12th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

1.30: Once again the Irish seem to hold the key to this. A case can be constructed for Back On The Road on his second to Horner Woods, but it is a tenuous one as he is held by Tranquil Sea who looks more of a solid contender. Northern Alliance has strong claims and the race could be between him and Tranquil Sea. The Irish have looked much too good for us at this meeting for whatever reason. Possibly the winter weather hold up has played a major part; whatever the explanation, they seem to hold the best hand of cards. Of the home contingent, Kia Kaha’s jumping is not convincing. Astrador can be accorded a chance on his second to Arkle runner-up Kalahari King but his stamina is unproven.

2.05: The drying out ground should aid Don’t Push It. Stablemate, Synchronished, seems best on soft. Buena Vista could be of interest, as could Scriptwriter who shaped well last time at Haydock behind Synchronised and Tazbar. He could represent each-way value in a tough heat.

2.40: Voy Por Ustedes looks teed up for a win here with so much in his favour. Monet’s Garden does not seem to act round Cheltenham, but the each-way alternative is Tidal Bay, now reverting to a suitable trip and racing over a track where he has a good record. He makes some appeal at the price in a race where it is hard to fancy anything else.

3.20: Along with Voy Por Ustedes, Kasbah Bliss is seen as the second banker on the card by many. The one chink in his armour could be the ground, which is quickening all the time. Course winners, Punchestowns and Big Buck’s are credible threats.

On a day of limited possibilities and at a meeting that seems to be getting harder by the day, Tidal Bay is nominated as the only wager, mainly because he seems overpriced with only one horse to beat. For those brave enough, a small each-way bet on Scriptwriter may pay for itself.


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Wednesday March 11th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

A suggested perm is set out on our other feature, Pennies To Pounds.

For those wishing a more direct approach, the following may be preferable…

1.30: Kornati Kid. Form with Wichita Lineman speaks for itself.

2.05: Mad Max is the call here although the message for Karabak is strong. I have been impressed with Mad Max this season and he has already beaten Karabak and looks as if this trip will suit. The way he lopes over his hurdles, I am of the opinion the track will not pose a problem.

2.40: Course winner, What A Friend is the call over form choice Cooldine here.

4.00: I consider Pierrot Lumaire to be worth a bet at a long-looking 20/1 at morning odds. He is a spring horse and his latest pipe opener should put him spot on for this. He finished second to Binocular last year at Aintree, meaning he might have been let in lightly from a mark of 153.

4.40: There is a good word for Miss Sarenne here. Recent work with Punjabi may be too good to be true, but if taken at face value, clearly she has a major chance in this handicap.


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TUESDAY March 10th:

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS:

It’s here! So let’s go… Nobody gets everything right at Cheltenham, but perhaps by pooling our resources we can have a profitable week. The first four races look like the ones to concentrate on today.

1.30: A better run is expected from Ainama. He has been working well and the stronger pace than he got at Kempton, which he is ensured, is in his favour. We have to be ruthless in assessment of races or else we will end up with a shortlist of ten. Ainama is not for me. Aachen beat Big Eared Fran at Taunton – form that was boosted at Sandown on Saturday. Aachen will need to improve again, which is not out of the question. I am prepared to oppose Cousin Vinny. Slick-jumping four-year-old Torphichen needs to be the equivalent of Binocular to succeed. In a tough opener, my two against the field are Go Native and Kempes.

2.05: I am against Tatenen who is stripped of his weight-for-age advantage now he is a five-year-old. Calgary Bay does not appeal in a rough race such as this is likely to be. Much as I like the horse, Planet Of Sound may be better served by further. I am looking at Golden Silver and Follow The Plan.

2.40: Wichita Lineman is fancied. Although rated 14lbs higher over hurdles, on form so far seen, that looks about right. He has yet to look as good over fences. Perhaps he will put that right today, but I remain unconvinced. Possol made a bad mistake at Kempton in the Racing Post. I am dubious of that form. Patsy Hall may be capable of pulling off yet another big handicap win for his clever trainer. He is blinkered for the first time. For me, Tot O’ Whiskey has disappointed this year. I am going for Millenium Royal who, unlike Wichita Lineman, appears to have transferred his hurdle form to fences.

3.20: For me, now the ground has failed to soften up drastically, Binocular should win. Without the advantage of soft ground, Celestial Halo, apparently in great form, may struggle to beat Binocular. Osana should improve for his first run of the season and can go well. Outside these three it is hard to see anything causing an upset. Crack Away Jack looks underpriced at 14/1 – more like 33/1 I would have thought! If there is to be a surprise, it could be provided by Ashkazar. i am dismissing the remainder.

Those are my thoughts at present. I have put together a staking plan in our other betting feature, Pennies To Pounds, which may be worth taking a look at. Nothing stands out for me as a bet worthy of lumping on, so a few multiple bets could be the answer. Whatever you decide on, good luck.


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MONDAY March 9th:

STRATFORD RACING TIPS:

4.10: Norman The Great has been upped 1lb for finishing third in a slowly run event at Newbury last week that he may have won if things had unfolded differently. Fourth-placed Procas de Thaix did not advertise the form in the Imperial Cup on Saturday and although this represents a drop in grade, that and the fact Norman The Great carries 11st 10lbs tempers confidence. He should go well but faces some likely lads this afternoon.

5.10: I can pass on a word for Pipe Banner in this.

TAUNTON RACING TIPS:

3.20: It is no surprise that Thundering Star has returned to novice company having been raised 5lbs for finishing third at Kempton in a handicap last time. He has a penalty to defy but appears to face little of consequence.

So a quiet day. The quiet before the storm one could say!


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SUNDAY MARCH 8th:

With the standard of racing at a low level today, Bush Telegraph is taking the opportunity to take a rare day off. There will be no tips or Track Notes for today but normal service resumes tomorrow.


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SATURDAY March 7th:

SANDOWN RACING TIPS

2.05: After a double yesterday, there can be no doubting that Nicky Henderson’s horses are peaking once again after an Arctic hold up. Burton Port makes a great deal of appeal in this novice handicap. Third to According To Dick over this course last time in a race where a penalty meant he couldn’t win, he was ridden as if another day was in mind. I suggest this is the day.

2.35: Fresh Air And Fun has to prove his stamina here and looks a dubious favourite.

3.10: If you are prepared to oppose the two market leaders in this, the race has a nice look to it. Mr Thriller may be a good horse but has a lump of weight for a four-year-old. Numide, said to be strongly fancied, is nevertheless fully exposed and vulnerable to an improver. So it is back to Team-Henderson for the highly thought of Dave’s Dream. Considering the reputation this horse holds, it is interesting that Mr Henderson has chosen to follow the handicap rather than novice route with this future Gold Cup winner!

4.20: Song Of Songs has always possessed oodles of talent but has been difficult to train. He jumps fences well, but Restless D’ Artaix, having beaten The Package, and to a lesser extent Deep Purple, make this a trappy event.

I am struggling with the other three cards at a period when it may pay to pace betting activity. Despite the numbers and the supposed complexity of the opening race, I suggest today’s bet is Burton Port.


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FRIDAY March 6th:

A quiet day I suggest:

SANDOWN looks the best of a bad day. Moncadou could be of interest in the 2.45. Backed to win a handicap at the Festival two year’s ago, he has been quiet after that failure but is reunited with Tony McCoy for the first time since. Considering what was expected of him at one time, this represents a big drop in class.   Nicky Henderson’s two runners, Don’t Tell The Wife (3.55) and Tanks For That (5.05) need monitoring. In particular, Tanks For That looks interesting as Barry Geraghty prefers him to Ravello Bay, indicating his mount must have schooled well. It is too close to Cheltenham for top jockeys to take unnecessary chances.

Essentially, take it easy…


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Thursday March 5th

Courtesy of Dubai, this is a cracker of a day! Not only is the racing at Nad Al Sheba top class, but it provides some betting opportunities. Having looked at the domestic cards, only Wolverhampton offers any interest as far as I am concerned. I apologise to jumping fans in advance, but trying to decipher what is on offer at the likes of Wincanton, Carlisle and Lingfield makes no appeal.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.40: Jose Adan looked unwilling on his turf debut. He now switches to dirt and wears a visor: hardly credentials for a betting proposition.

4.10: City Style obviously has ability but his attitude looked questionable when winning here three weeks’ ago. His fourth in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile gives him a tenuous length to find on stablemate Liberation who will be a big danger if fit. Naval Officer is the other runner in what looks a three-cornered contest. Slight preference is for Liberation.

4.45: This looks to be between Diabolical, whose form against the likes of Marchand D’or at Santa Anita and behind African Rose on soft ground speaks for itself. Dirt specialist Big City Man has already made his mark at the Carnival winning twice, and presents a serious challenge. He has a bit to find on Diabolical but his is winning form, whereas Diabolical’s form is in defeat. A tough call.

515: There are a couple question marks hanging over the principals here. Lucky Find will appreciate the step up in trip and Honour Devil showed no sparkle last month, whilst Echoes Rock is unproven on the surface.It may pay to take a chance with the progressive Snaafy who is three from four on dirt. He will need to improve again but the way he has been winning suggests he is riding a crest of a wave at present and he looks overpriced.

5.45: Mourilyan can make it third time lucky at the Carnival after a massive run a week ago when failing to see out the two miles. It is to be hoped the race has not left his mark. He travelled sweetly for most of the journey and will appreciate this drop back to a mile-and-a-half. This is no cakewalk. Purple Moon (possibly just in need of it but feared nonetheless) and the tough Quijano look the most likely dangers. The rest may be found out in this grade.

6.15: The big question mark here is whether Kirkless – so impressive on turf last time – can adapt equally effectively to dirt. This is no given. Asiatic Boy plugged on when third to My Indy last time but somehow did not appeal as quite the same horse as we saw last year. Happy Boy finished strongly when splitting My Indy and Asiatic Boy, creating the impression he will benefit from ten furlongs. This was his best run since last year’s blitz performance which encouraged Godolphin to purchase him. I am tempted to nominate him as the winner. It would be no surprise to see Tiz Now Tiz Then – a dirt specialist who ran with a great deal of promise a fortnight ago – go well at a price. He has at least seven pounds to find but could still surprise.

6.45: This a quality affair but provides a tough closer to a wonderful card. Vodka, Balius, Strategic News and Third Set seem to head the list of contenders, but a revival from Jay Peg could not be ruled out so this does look like a race to savour rather than to bet in.

Snaafy and Mourilyan look to represent the best bets on the card; but a multiple bet incorporating some of those mentioned should be considered.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.50: Canwinn should be different class to his rivals.

8.50: Tourist remains an interesting prospect, but the cat is out of the bag and scampering down the road after last week’s fine run from a poor draw. This is a tough little handicap with Spectait one of several serious opponents. Pevensey is worth keeping an eye on as this trip on this surface looks too sharp for him. It would appear he is being groomed for an imminent pop at something, possibly at the start of the turf season.


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Wednesday March 4th

Not much to quicken the pulse today:

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.10: Sir Liam may have turned some sort of corner. I only hope it is not leading me into a blind alley. A step up in trip appears to have brought about improvement and with two good recent runs at Lingfield on the board, he should be in the firing line again today. There is just a chance that the favourite, Rough Sketch, is too short based on one run and the booking of Jamie Spencer, so Sir Liam is offered as a value alternative.


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Tuesday March 3rd

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.10: Grimes Faith returns to the track where he has the best record. This opener looks to be between him and Efistorm.

4.40: More Time Tim is only a 1lb higher than when winning an apprentice handicap five days ago from Barataria more comfortably than he was entitled to on the book. This points to a horse very much on the upgrade and he can go in again.


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Monday March 2nd

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

5.10: Just the one suggestion on an otherwise ordinary day. It may be worth taking a chance with one of racing’s under-achievers in Al Azy. Don’t laugh! This son of Nayef did nothing but disappoint for John Dunlop but has run in much better company. Some of Nayef’s offspring do tend to need time as he throws up big unfurnished types. Al Azy falls into this category and I suspect he was a weak three-year-old. Now with David Simcock, a very able trainer, Al Azy ran a lot better than the formbook suggests on his reappearance at Kempton after an eight month break. Momentarily outspeeded, he was staying on under very considerate handling behind Prince Charlemagne. He has not been gelded as you might have imagined and holds several engagements later in the month. Now, maybe I am constructing a case that is non-existent but at likely odds of 10/1, I consider Al Azy worth an interest.


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Sunday March 1st

 

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS

2.40: Conditions are in place for a major run from Hot Diamond in this.. He barely stays two miles but this sharp track and half-decent ground means he gets his optimum requirements. El Dancers’ form has been let down and Mount Helicon, although a horse with ability, is looking as if his heart is not in this game. No good thing in a race peppered with doubts, but Hot Diamond gets his chance.

4.10: It would be wise to disregard Dave’s Dreams’ latest run at Ascot.. He made a mistake early and his stable was not firing having been all but snowed-in during the bleak spell of weather. We should see more of the real article here. Held in the highest regard, he should go close from a mark of 130. For a big horse, this may not be the ideal track but Nicky Henderson invariably knows what he is doing. Hills Of Arran faces more realistic opposition after bumping into Lough Derg last week and Kasbah Bliss before that. But the weight concession and his third race in quick succession may find him out.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

3.20: Baan ran one of his better races last time when a closing second to Mr Aitch. 2lbs better off with the winner for a neck plus a 3lbs apprentice allowance, he gets the chance to put a long losing run behind him. He looks overpriced on the assumption that pundits have marked him down as a non-winner. This extra trip may be what he has been crying out for. Benhego’s best form is on right-handed courses and one wonders whether Gary Moore can produce the oracle twice with a Stuart Williams cast-off.

3.50: Making sense of this is not easy. Flipando has an obvious chance.. Internationaldebut would have made plenty of appeal but the draw is off-putting. Wasp has a chance but is hard to way-up.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS

3.30: Along The Nile returns to a track where he has a good record. He failed to stay last time at Southwell when hardly put in the race. He has a good chance in a tricky race. His mark is okay but he is saddled with 11st 7lbs including his rider’s allowance. Should be in the firing line. There is little between him and Joe Jo Star on a line through European Dream.

February Archive Free Racing tips from spy


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FEBRUARY


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Saturday February 28th

Today is difficult to the point of being unappealing. I have two pieces of news I can pass your way, although it is difficult to get enthusiastic.. Both run at Doncaster

Doncaster Racing Comments

4.00: Fidelis. This comes from a yard that has a winner when the planets are in alignment. It runs in a race that is impossible to assess. As a piece of information it is probably next to useless. All I know is that it is fancied.

5.10: Dev. This can win but the race is not easy.

At Newbury, I am attempting to construct a case around Norman The Great in the 3.45. He does look to have a chance but I am guilty of trying to find something. I did not get where I am today (and I am not sure where that is) by manufacturing bets.   At present nothing stands out.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Friday 27th Feb

This does not look like a day to dwell on, so it is more of a case of passing on a few tit-bits.

NEWBURY: Looks difficult and nothing appeals as betting material.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

Mail De Bievre is confidently expected to win by his stable. Short-priced horses in bumpers are largely a waste of time.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.25: Statute Book has improved since winning at Southwell where he did the job nicely. He is fancied to follow-up.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Quince can win this but the key will be a decent pace. He really wants an extra couple of furlongs based on evidence so far seen.

7.50: Tourist is one of the more interesting runners of the day. After two promising runs this year with new connections, he looks the sort his yard will do well with. However, the draw makes it difficult to be confident and it seems more a case of watching him for next time.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Thursday 26th Feb

Plenty of opportunities today so let’s get cracking…

LUDLOW RACING TIPS:

3.20: Patsy Finnegan is expected to appreciate the extra trip and follow up on a recent success.

5.20: Despite the presence of the odds-on Eradicate, Sampson’s Son has reportedly schooled exceptionally well since his Doncaster debut and is expected to finish second at worst.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.10: This could be tighter than the betting indicates. Form lines suggest Barataria may come out on top; although More Time Tim could be improving and Rock Anthem is not out of contention.

5.10: Trueblue Wizard returns to the track where he opened his account. He did not look as effective at Wolverhampton last time and is taken to recover the winning thread here. He is worth backing.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Wine ‘N Dine will be suited by the pace that is assured in this; whereas last time, in what developed into a sprint, he was caught flat-footed. Had looked impressive at Kempton when winning and should get back on the right track tonight.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

4.15: Roman’s Run, on advantageous terms with Art Of War, looks the one to beat here in a race that concerns only a limited number of runners.

4.45: Veracity should win this but will be priced accordingly. There has to be a doubt about Mourilyan staying this far.

5.15: Reports of J J The Jet Plane have so far appeared exaggerated. Of course that is based on one run on dirt and he reverts to turf today. However, Hatta Fort lines up from a yard in terrific form, having beaten the smart Imbongi and subsequent winner, Balthazaar’s Gift. In another race that may not concern too many runners, even if J J The Jet Plane justifies the hype, Hatta Fort should finish second and has every chance of upsetting the favourite given his current wellbeing.

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Wednesday 25th Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.30: The two of interest here are Hunt The Bottle and Great Knight, both of whom ran as if approaching winning form last time. Neither is well drawn. Hunt The Bottle faces a daunting task from the eleven box but is worth keeping an eye on with a view to the future. Great Knight’s task is not impossible from eight but will need luck in running..

6.00: Waldorf is considered better than a 56-rated horse here but tends to get revved-up prior to his races. The sort that could win but equally could throw his chance away.

FOLKESTONE RACING TIPS:

2.10: Old Pretender is taken to put an unfortunate run behind him over this course.   Nothing stands out as a bet today, so these are no more than ideas. Hopefully, tomorrow will provide better opportunities.


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Tuesday 24th Feb

To be honest it is not much of a day. The stand out horse as regards class ought to be Song Of Songs in the 2.20 at Leicester, having put up such an encouraging round of jumping on his fencing debut behind Planet Of Sound at Newbury. He looked in need of the run that day, apparently blowing up over the final two fences. I say ‘apparently’ because he was something of a mystery horse over hurdles when lightly-raced and a major disappointment at both Cheltenham, when failing to stay, but more notably at Aintree when running a shocker.  His class ought to be enough but he is a short price for a horse that has such a fragile history.

Dance And Dance looks as if he gets his chance in the 2.30 at Lingfield having bumped into a useful debutant of Andrew Balding’s last time. Another likely to be short; he has had a few chances and would be vulnerable to an improver or to the unraced Hector Spectre if he turns out to be any good.

This has the look of a day to either watch or to leave alone.


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Monday 23rd Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.10: Almaty Express is probably on the decline but has a chance of winning this event on his way down the rankings. An easy ride, he has the services of an excellent apprentice, reducing his mark to 65 – if one is prepared to take McHugh’s 7lb allowance at face value. Far from a good thing, he nevertheless deserves consideration from such a level in a race that lacks depth.

4.10: National Monument may represent value against Badge Of Honour as his third to Love Pegasus (a stablemate of Badge Of Honour’s) posted promise, particularly after a slow start. Badge Of Honour does not look anything special.

5.10: Man Of Gwent has put together a couple of fair efforts and the right race may have been found.

HEREFORD RACING TIPS:

2.30: Calificial carries stable confidence in this. Apparently a couple of wind operations are expected to allow this horse to realise his potential. Taking 9/4 about a horse that has had a couple of operations does not seem like a sensible course to me. However, I pass the message on. The race certainly looks winnable but I shall sit it out.


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Sunday 22nd Feb

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.55: Alpes Maritimes has not been an easy horse to train – not when with Geoff Wragg or now he is with Gary Moore. However, the ability has always been in place and he ran an encouraging race last time when fifth to King Olav from a 2lbs higher mark. Rated 76 today, that means he is 7lbs below his assessment when second to Silver Pivotal a year ago when at the height of his form. If able to even part- replicate that in this suitable event, he should be hard to beat. Worth taking a chance with.

5.25: Moon Crystal is another for whom the right race has been found. She may be 2lbs higher than when winning last time but it is difficult to nominate what will beat her today.


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Saturday 21st Feb

This has the look of a knotty day – a typical Saturday with value and betting opportunities thin on the ground. After what has been a good week, hopefully signaling the upward shift one hopes for at this time of year, it is not my intention to risk winnings on a day that looks bookmaker-friendly.

However, this is possibly the last Saturday to throw out Cheltenham clues so it is not without interest.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.05: Ainama is supposed to be a high class prospect. He is not a bet at the price today but if he beats Dee EE Williams on only his second start, then his stable has every right to believe they have a potential star on their hands.

3.10: In a race where Big Fella Thanks represents no value, I intend to have a small bet on Endless Power, who has the look of a horse that has been laid out for this. Having won over the National fences at a trip just short of 2m 6f, there is every reason to believe he will stay and he does not look badly treated. He is a front-runner which may be his undoing (that and nineteen opponents) but if Robert Thornton can settle him early, he could go well. At 33/1, I am prepared to be wrong!

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

LINGFIELD presents another hard card. I would not dismiss Swiss Franc in the 3.40 despite the fact he cannot win at the weights.

4.10: Suits Me ought to extend his winning run but faces tough opposition.

5.15: I make this between Whistledownwind and Wasp, who on a line through Red Somerset are closely matched. I thought Whistledownwind disappointing last time, but in Premio Loco he was beaten by a decent animal. It is hard to gauge how good Wasp might be, whilst at the age of nine and never having won over this trip, it seems a bit late in the day to nominate Bonus.

A day to play with caution…


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Friday 20th Feb

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

2.45: According To Dick is taken to justify his home reputation. Strongly fancied on his hurdles debut when last seen at Exeter, he travelled well but got tired in desperate ground. Today’s conditions should be more to his liking and he will take the beating.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.00: This looks a weak handicap. Diana’s Choice should be good enough.

3.35: Dohasa failed to obtain a clear run when third to Diana’s Choice last time. Without such antics and providing Diana’s Choice has endorsed the form in the opener, Dohasa should make appropriate amends.

4.10: Snaafy and Noble Citizen are closely matched on their running here two weeks ago. It would be no surprise to see Snaafy confirm the form as he overcame plenty of obstacles to win. There is just the suspicion however that the race was run at a suicidal pace and played into the hands of a finisher. This is not an event to get heavily involved in but Jonquil’s second to Yamal last time is solid and I am hoping he will reward a small each-way investment.

4.45: Fiery Lad is taken to edge out Strategic News here, although on some form lines Big Robert could be given a chance at a price.

5.20: Warsaw seems a better horse on dirt, where things happen a shade slower and he seemed much more at home on this surface when winning last time.

5.50: Not much went right for Bankable towards the end of last year. He was almost certainly over the top when only sixth on his last run for Luca Cumani but, on his second to Eagle Mountain, he would win this. With the trip looking inadequate for both Macarthur and King’s Gambit, Red Eye Express may provide the biggest threat as he failed to stay last time when strongly fancied. it could be significant that Bankable may have changed stables but not owner. He is worth another chance.

6.20: Deem and Front House are closely matched in this.

6.55: Via Galilei was unlucky not to finish closer last time and could be the answer to the concluding handicap.

According To Dick and Bankable are suggested as the best prospects on the day.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Thursday 19th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

2.00 Under Review should get favourite punters off to an appropriate start.

4.05: There should be little between Back In The Red and This Ones For Eddy based on their last meeting. If there is an interloper, it could be Imprimis Tagula who has been campaigned over the wrong trip whilst his rating has slid to a winnable level. Returned to six furlongs and racing off 73, he could go well at a price.

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS:

1.50: The fact Ravello Bay breaks blood vessels makes her a flimsy betting proposition. Win or lose, backing horses that burst will cost you money.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Cinematic got caught in the shadow of the post last time. An ideal race seems to have been found and if held on to for longer, on this quicker track he should be capable of striking late.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

This has not been an easy meet so far, but hopefully that can change today.

4.55: Moonquake handled the dirt surface like a natural last time and appeals physically as the sort that is only now filling his frame. He is closely weighted with Jack Junior (unlucky last time) and Trust N Dustan but is taken to record a narrow win from Jack Junior.

5.55: One of the secrets of success here is not to overace contenders. Gladiatorus, whose form with Calming Influence and Biarritz is solid and who broke the track record last time, has been given a month’s break and will line-up tonight relatively fresh. He faces a stiff test against Imbongi (not won over trip) and Summit Surge, with whom he is closely weighted through Calming Influence, but looks as if he can progress sufficiently to take this major prize.

6.25: Swop and Yamal may dominate here but it is a close call as, despite a good run here last time, Swop may be more effective with more juice in the ground.


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Wednesday 18th Feb

To my mind this looks a tricky day. Picking out horses is not hard but there are reasons why some of them need a rethink.

LUDLOW RACING TIPS:

3.35: Despite appearing to be staying on last time, Working Title’s best form is undeniably over today’s trip of two miles. Chief Yeoman finished just behind him at Ascot last time and went on to run a big race on Saturday in a similar contest. However, apparently the Nicky Henderson yard has been hit hard by the weather, with most of their inmates missing work. For that reason confidence is reduced. The race appears between Working Title and the consistent King’s Revenge who will take advantage of any shortcomings in the likely favourite.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.00: Zero Cool is not straightforward, but in a race full of monkeys is presented with his best recent chance.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

6.50: Grimes Faith appears a reformed character and his form ties in with recent winners. However, his renaissance has occurred at Southwell so there must be a doubt whether it will be maintained on Polytrack. Giving the impression he needs to win on the snaff, it may be best to let him run tonight.

7.50: The trip may scupper King’s Head, whilst it will suit Quince providing there is a proper gallop.

8.20: According to my arithmetic, Emerald Wilderness has a 3lb weight turnround with Robby Bobby for a head. That ought to be enough, but Robby Bobby (despite a defeat by Kandidate on Sunday) may be improving and it would come as no surprise if he confirmed form. Emerald Wilderness has never been Mr Reliable.

So, not for the want of trying, comments rather than bets. Not what I am looking for either, but that is the way it appears to me…


BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Tuesday 17th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

There are a couple of possibles at Southwell on what, once again, has to be referred to as a non-descript day.

3.00: Shining Gale is taken to concede weight to pint-sized West End Rocker. He looks more of a natural chaser, despite his tumble in hot company last time, and has every chance to get back on course today.

4.00: Somewhat more speculative is Along The Nile here. Although his best form over this code is at Musselburgh (was an intended runner at last week’s abandoned meeting), he has a record of going well left-handed. This sharp track should therefore suit and not faze him. Stamina is something of a worry but he is fit and seems reasonably weighted based on an excellent second last time to European Dream who ran well yesterday. We have to assume his stable has got the trip right.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Monday 16th Feb

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

2.25: On the assumption that a mile-and-a-half will suit a match-fit and in form Diktatorship, he looks the one to beat in this second division of the amateur riders’ handicap.

4.40: Inside Story finally gets the trip likely to bring out the best in him. Following such horses over a cliff is not advisable and his attitude did look a tad suspect at Kempton last time, so it is a case of put and take. Today presents his best chance for some while (despite an unfavourable draw) with a possible revival from Penang Cinta feared.

MARKET RASEN RACING TIPS:

3.10: Bench Warrent is apparently fancied from a stable in good form at present.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Sunday 15th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

There are one or two interesting contenders on this card that deserve consideration at least:

3.00: This Ones For Eddy turned in a good effort in a competitive race on Thursday – his first run after a forty day break – doing his best work at the end of the five furlong dash over this course. This extra furlong should suit.

4.00: Formation looks likely to be a warm order here. However, he has no form on Fibresand and this race may not be as simple as it appears. The one contender with a proven record on the equivalent of dirt is Kandidate, a winner at Nad Al Sheba last February on that surface from a 10lbs higher mark. Worryingly, he was tailed off behind Formation last time, but that was on Polytrack. Even at the age of seven, he cannot be ruled out of this. He is the class act.

4.30: Eastern Aura created a favourable impression on his debut when second in what looked like a good race. The winner, Mulamaashi, is well thought of and Eastern Aura was one of three in the event that looked booked for future success. Mark Johnston rarely, if ever, runs horses at Southwell that fail to handle the surface.   Leopardstown stages a cracking card for National Hunt enthusiasts but it is one I shall leave to those that know better.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Saturday 14th Feb

Today’s racing schedule is a bit like the old saying: You wait an hour for a bus to come along only for eight to arrive all together. For me, the classy Ascot card and Lingfield look to present the best opportunities…

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

1.40: Belcantista has the right profile for a race such as this. His price is likely to contract throughout the morning though and I am very wary of taking on Dave’s Dream, a horse that has been described as a future Gold Cup winner by some of the more forward-thinking members of the powerful Henderson team. His inexperience may be his undoing today, but running him in such company suggests his trainer is not afraid to pitch him in at the deep end.

3.20: I can pass on a word here for Santia who appears to be in a race she can win.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.35: Greeness appeared to be the undoing of American Spin last time and he gets another chance here which, with that run under his belt, he looks capable of taking.

3.05: Any market interest in Alpes Maritimes should be heeded, but the signs are he is unlikely to return to form. Man Of Gwent was noted in running last time and in a competitive heat is taken to run well.

3.35: Titan Triumph, a last gasp loser at this track last time, has the weight pull with Red Somerset to reverse an unfortunate defeat into victory today.This small field should suit his style of racing.

4.45: Turn On The Style looks hard to oppose as he has so much in his favour. Harry Up will force the pace which will suit the selection, whilst it is extremely unlikely that Matsunosuke is capable of conceding weight to Turn On The Style,a winner in Dubai this time last year and a horse that shows no signs of losing his edge.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Friday 13th Feb

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

A tough card, likely to be run on very soft ground. Blazing Desert is fancied at a big price in the 4.20. He has a bit to find but did run his best race at this track and will benefit from this step up in trip. Hohlethelonely will be popular as he races minus a penalty. However, he won a poor race last week in bottomless ground and may find this coming a bit quickly. Whatever, with Blazing Desert we can afford to be wrong at the price.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.05: Count Ceprano is overdue a win. His fourth last week to Gallantry when beaten two lengths puts this course and distance winner in here with every chance. There is no guarantee that Capricorn Run will repeat the form he showed last time and Southandwest seems to have gone off the boil, so a winnable event.

4.40: Canadian Danehill seems reasonably treated and is taken to recover winning ways after a big effort last time.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH

Thursday 12th Feb

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

4.40: Returned to a mile, Inside Story has his optimum trip and conditions and deserves serious consideration. Tactics of running him over an inadequate six and seven furlongs have failed to fool the handicapper, but a mark of 63 means Inside Story (similar chance to Salt Of The Earth on the book) is in with a solid chance.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

1.50: United Nations ought to be good enough in this seller, particularly returning to Southwell where he has such a good record.

3.35: This looks a tight race. There is a word for Figaro Flyer who, having banged his head on the stalls last time, may be capable of improving on that run. Back In The Red and This Ones For Eddy (should be suited by trip) look dangers.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

3.15: Green Coast returns to his best trip. There was no disgrace in being beaten last time by My Indy.

4.55: Godolphin’s good run looks set to continue here as they field the front two in the market. City Style ought to be up to the task, but if not Jose Adan looks an able deputy.

5.30: Likely to be a short price, J J The Jet Plane is apparently hard to oppose. 6.05: Although not so cut and dried, once again the Godolphin pair, Desert Party and Vineyard Haven, appear to monopolise the UAE 2000 Guineas.

6.40: Kirkless does not face a straightforward task here. At the weights, his stable companion, With Interest does beat him. Add the unknown quantity of Barbaricus into the mix and this may be an event to sit out.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Wednesday 11th Feb

 

It looks like something of a dead day and one I can shed little light on.

The 2.40 at Lingfield looks as if it may go to an unraced contender as those we have seen in action look of limited ability. After Coldplay’s victories at the Grammy’s, the topical tip has to be Viva la Vida but that is nothing more than speculation.   I hope to provide some inspiration for tomorrow’s cards at Nad Al Sheba.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 10th Feb

There are two possibilities today:

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

3.50: Xpress Maite has a major chance at the weights of overturning recent form with Ingelby Arch. The race should be run to suit him.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.10: No prizes for originality here, but Woodcote has an obvious chance in a seller on his recent second to a revitalised Grimes Faith.   Advice is to tread carefully at present. We are approaching the busy time of the year, and pretty soon it should be all systems go.


  BUSH TELEGRAPH

Monday 9th Feb

A poor start to the week and a day I am intent on swerving. Hopefully, there will be more to come as the week gathers pace.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Sunday 8th Feb

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

2.10: Leo The Lion is likely to be a short price after a promising debut run. It is hard to assess the value of the form but he showed enough to encourage the belief he can win today.

2.40: It is surprising to see Quince racing over 1m 3f considering he was staying on over 1m 5f last time. He is worth watching with an eye to the future when returned to a more suitable trip.

 3.40: Premio Loco is hard to oppose. Last time he beat subsequent winners, Red Somerset and Capricorn Run with a fancied Whistledownwind in fourth. Bonus is capable of testing him but at the age of nine it seems he has reached his plateau. Orchard Supreme ought to beat Councellor on recent form but is not that reliable so that cannot be assumed. Fifth in the Cambridgeshire, Premio Loco is the logical selection today.

5.10: For those still in the game at this late hour on a Sunday, Mistress Cooper is becoming well handicapped. Her best form is at the minimum trip and for that reason, a bit like Quince, she has to be watched today. This quick six may suit, but a reasonable run may tee her up for a win next time if reverting to her optimum


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Saturday 7th Feb

 

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

12.40: Tinagoodnight is fancied by her stable to kick off a card many of us thought was unlikely to take place. Considered a Cheltenham horse at one stage, she faces a much easier task than any Festival target in this.

1.10: Turkish Surprise remains a horse his stable believe will scale the heights. This is a winnable race for him and he should deliver today if he is the horse they believe him to be.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

4.10: Gallantry has a chance of regaining the winning thread in this. A valuable 3lbs allowance from a capable rider puts him on a winning mark.

4.45: There is a message for Geese A Laying here. Beaten a country mile on his debut, that was at Southwell; the assumption being he failed to handle the surface. A much more prominent showing is expected on the Polytrack.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

Friday 6th Feb

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

Stages an interesting but tough card tonight. However, there are a few betting opportunities, the best of which to my mind appears in the:

5.05: Biarritz ran well under tender handling when third in January behind Gladiatorus and Calming Influence. With Jay Peg and Bruges [ran well yesterday] down the field, that is beginning to look like a solid contest. On the assumption that Biarritz can improve for the run, his first since last summer, it seems reasonable to expect him to go close today. Whatever Kings Gambit achieves, he will surely be better over a couple of extra furlongs.

 4.30: In a much more speculative vein, Plavius may prove to be in a similar mould to last year’s winner, Jalil. A well publicised expensive yearling, he has scored twice on dirt since being transferred to the UAE. A powerful sort, he looks a dirt horse and although he will need to raise his game, may represent value for those brave enough to take a chance.

5.40: Not many races are run over this trip at this track. This is not a race to dwell on but I am tempted to think, at the weights, Young Mick may have his day in the sun – or moon as it will be local time.

6.45: Kal Barg may ring down the curtain on the meeting. He finished second to Alexandros last time in a race sending out mixed messages. But we know he is fit, whereas Russian Sage is having his first run at the carnival and his best form seems to be over further.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

On a somewhat speculative day, American Spin may take the 7.20 at Wolverhampton. An easy winner from the versatile Dontpaytheferryman on his second start, he was a most promising third to Mr Napper Tandy at Newmarket as a juvenile. We are flying in the face of the bounce factor here, but his mark of 75 is tempting ad he may justify a small stake. He looks well-treated.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Thursday 5th Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

4.00: With the Jamie Osborne stable on a current high, Amber Moon, second on his previous visit here, looks primed to get off the mark in a poor contest.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: No prizes for nominating Dansant in this, but he should win.

NAD AL SHEBA RACING TIPS:

4.45: Bound To Honour looks the best bet on the card and the day. A Group performer in South Africa, his comeback effort over an inadequate trip last time behind Alexandros reinforced his well being and commitment. Squeezed for room on the inner, he was battling on in dogged style and that run should have sharpened him up for a tilt over this more suitable trip.

6.15: There are no fitness worries about Munaddam after his latest win over Leandros. There may be little between them again but Munaddam’s overall record at this track could give him the edge. Imbongi may just need this and Hatta Fort – arguably unlucky last time – may still have something to find on the selection.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

Wednesday 4th Feb

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.00: Quince should be suited by a step up in trip to 1m 5f and on balance his form exceeds that of claiming level. From a yard in form, he should be hard to beat and is seen as the best opportunity of the day.

1.00: Lacrosse turned in a promising debut when not beaten far over course and distance. Normal improvement should be good enough to see him off the mark here.

3.35: Satwa Street is not a confident selection, but has an 8lb weight pull with Five Star Junior for less than a length. Overhauled close home by Hellbender – who split the two – that represents solid form. There is just a suspicion that Satwa Street may be better suited by five furlongs, but if held up he may be capable of nailing Five Star Junior close home in a race that appears to concern just the two runners.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

Tuesday 3rd Feb

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

Hardly a card to get excited about; however, two horses appear interesting.

1.40: World of Choice gets a step up in trip, which looks likely to suit. A couple of spins round this track confirm he handles the surface. From a stable not adverse to a tilt at the ring, any market move should be heeded. Last year’s winner, Cragganmore Creek, is a reliable sort at this level but looks as if he wants further nowadays.

3.10: On a similar straw-clutching theme, Spiritual Healing takes the eye. Far from disgraced on debut at Lingfield, this Invincible Spirit filly has a pedigree that gives her every chance of handling this unique surface. It may also be significant that Martin Dwyer makes the trek to Southwell for two rides for Jamie Osborne. It is hard to make a case for the other runner so if there is a plot, it looks like it would be Spiritual Healing.


January Archive Free Racing tips from Spy


BUSH TELEGRAPH

JANUARY


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 17th 2009

A cracking day’s racing in prospect today – the best of the year so far. However, not every race promises to offer betting opportunities although the day is bursting with interest…

ASCOT RACING TIPS:

12.30: Price aside, Zaynar does not look opposable here, particularly after the win of Walkon at Chepstow. Apparently he is not the sweetest of horses at home, but Mike Tyson did not win prizes out of the ring either.

1.05: This is a typical tricky handicap. Working Title will be suited by this return to a shorter trip. He was travelling very well at Kempton before running out of stamina over 2m 5f last time. However, I am prepared to take a small chance with Group Captain who seems to reserve his best for this track. Although rated 142, with his rider’s claim, he only carries 10st 8lbs and is a sporting alternative to some better-touted rivals.

1.40: Calgary Bay has a small penalty to overcome and may find things happening too quickly for him in this with the flamboyant Free World in the field. I suggest it is a race to watch.

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

1.20: Snap Tie ought to confirm his improvement here but is not a betting proposition at the price and on desperate ground

3.00: One horse that will cope with conditions is Turkish Surprise. He created a favourable impression on his debut in this country at Ascot when second to Deep Purple. Said to be a possible for top honours later in the season, he will be better left-handed, has improved since Ascot and is capable of causing an upset.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

1.50: Sunset Boulevard deserves another chance here. Posted wide last time when only beaten a little over a length, this was his second promising effort after a period on the sidelines. Dropped 2lbs since, this looks harder but he is worth an interest.

4.00: Ability has never been the problem for Titan Triumph. The twists and turns of Lingfield suit him as they seem to keep his mind focused. He plays his hand late, so will need some luck in running but, receiving 20lbs from Atlantic Story means that even from 6lbs higher than his last win, he is at the right end of the weights. He has been given a break and looks poised to register the five-timer.

That is all from me until February 2nd/3rd as I am off on holiday today. I hope this column has been of help and  I intend to return refreshed and ready for the challenging months ahead. Take it easy…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY JANUARY 16th 2009

Once again there is little to get enthusiastic about today. The ground is likely to be very testing at Chepstow and Catterick; so any chance we do have is at Lingfield or Wolverhampton.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

12.50: Rapid City is in good form and should be capable of accounting for this step up in trip and his market rival, Ebert.

1.20: Theatre Street ran well enough on her debut to suggest she can get on the score-sheet here.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

9.20: Spectait did us a turn last time and looks poised to follow up. Tonight’s opposition looks weaker than those he encountered last week and he should win. However, he displayed one or two issues that make one think he may not be a horse to take a short price about.

There won’t be any Track Notes today, but I shall be putting a Bush Telegraph on the site for tomorrow’s racing prior to a fortnight’s holiday.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JANUARY 15th 2009

Today’s domestic cards are frightful, at least to my mind. It is a little early to bet at Nad Al Sheba but without doubt they stage the best card of the day and a couple of runners are of interest.

5.30: Brave Tin Soldier has already opened his account in the desert this season. That was on dirt and being by Storm Cat it could be that is where his future lies. He returns to turf tonight which might compromise his chance. In any event, Estrela Do Oriente looks a potential blot on the handicap.

6.05: Royal Vintage returns to a theatre he excelled in last season. Although accused of being a weak finisher, he is more effective over this mile trip. We know he handles this surface and a couple of battles with Honour Devil last year puts him in this with a favourite’s chance. The one to keep an eye on is Happy Boy, who looked so good on his debut on this surface at last year’s carnival and is another returning to a surface likely to bring out the best in him.

6.40: If there is a bet there tonight it must surely be Sugar Ray. His form with Sixties Icon and Mad Rush stands out here, and this good ground will suit him admirably. He looks set for a good carnival.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 14th 2009

 

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

The prospect of some excellent racing here today. First up in the 12.50 is Mount Helicon. An expensive failure at this course on debut, he reportedly blew up on the run-in when just caught and will strip fitter now. It is too early to dismiss this high class French import who looks worth another chance.

1.20: Planet Of Sound impressed with his jumping over this course and distance last time and should follow up. He is athletic for a big horse and held in high regard by his stable.

1.25: This looks like a dry run for Cheltenham, with a top class line-up promised. There is little to choose between Cockney Trucker and Shoreacres on a line through Dee E Williams and they look likely to test Mad Max. However, Mad Max was impressive at Ascot and although likely to be a short price today and therefor not a betting proposition, the manner of his victory suggests he could be something special.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

2.20: Faithful Ruler was a staying-on third to Spectiat last time in a more competitive event and this extra trip may bring out the best in him. He races from the same mark and is taken to boost that form.

KEMPTON RACONG TIPS:

8.50: Rock Anthem could win this, but the worry is that all his best form has been achieved at Southwell. His narrow defeat by United Nations from the same mark is solid but, as a horse that has experienced training problems, there is a danger this much quicker track could find him out.

9.20: Cut And Thrust gets a chance to build on his latest success with the defection of Mr Willis.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JANUARY 13th 2009

Nothing takes the eye today. The drums are silent!


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY JANUARY 11th 2009

There are no selections today…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 10th 2009

It is hard to be confident about anything on a cobbled together day like this:

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

Looks the best card where Commandingpresence ought to be good enough in the 1.45.

The 2.50 looks tricky. Turn On The Style will presumably make the running which could suit the fast-finishers, Aeroplane and Bonus. However, an uncomplicated sort, Turn On The Style may have too much pace for the other two, both of whom are coming back in trip. This does represent a step up in grade for Turn On The Style though, so it probably is a race to watch. Personally, I am not convinced this trip of six furlongs will suit Aeroplane but I am not about to pay to find out.

So no bet from me today…


BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY JANUARY 9th 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.00: In a tight knit contest, Barwell Bridge is fancied and will be suited by the step up in trip.

4.00: Sunset Boulevard looks one of the most interesting prospects on the day. Shaping with promise in December [his first run since May] when fifth to Valdan and the in-form Epsom Salts, little improvement is required to win this. Successful over course and distance, he races from an all-time low mark of 63. He has the look of a potential gamble and is worth taking a small chance with.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS:

3.05: Nightjar is in excellent shape at present and should win today. His current form is solid; but he is booked for favouritism here and undeniably his best form is at Southwell. For that reason I would advise against getting carried away.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH

THURSDAY JANUARY 8th 2009

I am inclined to give today amiss, especially after yesterday’s success.   Silvanus should appreciate the return to five furlongs in the 1.55 at GREAT LEIGHS. However, he is not the most resolute of characters.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

At SOUTHWELL, I have had a silly side bet with my racing sidekick that in the 2.50 United Nations will beat Transmission. At stake (should that be steak?) is a meal. United Nations is in the peak of form, whereas I feel Transmission is only running to beat a reassessed mark that kicks in from Saturday. Beaten by Mambo Sun on Monday, Transmission may struggle even on revised terms to overturn form with United Nations. The presence of the Irish contender, Redwater River further complicates the race though. A winner on heavy ground, there is every reason to believe he will handle this surface.   So, not for the want of trying, no bet from this quarter today.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 7th 2009

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

4.20: Everything seems to be in place for a big run from Spectiat today. Bought to go hurdling, he proved a non-stayer and with the exception of a his debut win at Aintree made little impact out over timber. Reverting to the Flat, he has gradually been finding his form. Last time he finished fifth at Southwell (a track that would not have suited) in a race that was unusually strong. Seventh placed Xpres Maite won yesterday, whilst the winner has won since and Councellor is a solid yardstick. Spectiat may not be as good as he was, but did win off 95 when with Sir Mark Prescott and is now racing off 78. On a fast surface and over a trip that is ideal, today is his day if he is to win a race of this description. William Hill’s price of 15/2 this morning looks generous.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

4.25: Luckier, from a stable in form, has the profile of an improving filly and has apparently been working well. She is the one to beat here and can provide the second leg of an ambitious double today.

King Of Cadeaux (3.50 Wolverhampton), who will appreciate this step up in trip, and Wine N’ Dine (Kempton) may be worth including in multiple bets but essentially, on  what may have looked like a quiet day, SPECTIAT and LUCKIER are considered as bets you should not let run.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JANUARY 6th 2009

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

3.50: Terminate is a guaranteed stayer against opponents that may struggle. For that reason he is taken to as the most likely winner.

SOUTHWELL

1.10: Mambo Sun last run behind United Nations may be misleading to a degree but it did receive a boost on Sunday.

3.40: Not many horses rack up three straight wins at Southwell (or any of the other all-weather tracks) but the right opportunity does seem to have been for Charles Parnell here.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY JANUARY 5th 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

Just one horse worthy of a mention from this quarter today:

2.45: Hellbender is in good form and looks the one to beat here.


BUSH TELEGRAPH

SATURDAY JANUARY 3rd 2009

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

With racing looking increasingly doubtful at Sandown, and very difficult in any case, Lingfield looks like the meeting to concentrate on…

1.10: The last run of Slip can be excused as he patently failed to stay the trip. Dropped in distance and grade, he ought to win today.

1.45: Whistledownwind is taken to beat Premio Loco. The selection has had his career sabotaged by a ridiculous campaign that included races run over trips beyond him. Now with Jeremy Noseda, he has faced more realistic targets and he could be called an unlucky loser on his last run over seven. In the belief they will not crawl around this mile today, conditions should be ideal and this one time Classic aspirant can recover winning ways.

3.25: Pevensey is the best treated horse in this and is a selection to win a tight contest. Grande Caiman is in great form but faces a tough task from a mark of 104. Group Captain could provide the biggest danger.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

4.40: A drop in grade should suit Jake the Snake who goes well for a lady rider.   Slip and Whistledownwind look the bets of the day


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FRIDAY JANUARY 2nd 2009

Little, of any interest today. Quite what cards like these are supposed to achieve as far as the betting public is concerned is debatable.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

More to demonstrate I have done some work than anything else, it may be worth keeping an eye on Fifty Cents in the 7.50 at Wolverhampton. A one-time possible for Listed events when with Roger Charlton, the horse has subsequently changed yards and not been seen for some time. The intriguing factor today though is that Steve Drowne, his regular partner when the horse was housed at Beckhampton, rides, suggesting perhaps the horse is expected to run well.

Not every day offers proper opportunities and this is the best I can come up with under the circumstances. Maybe a day to catch up on admin or do some shopping!


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THURSDAY JANUARY 1st 2009

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS

1.05: After two excellent efforts at this track this year over trips short of his best, Alexanderthegreat gets his chance over a more suitable three miles plus. Such a fact has not gone unnoticed and his price is miserly.

1.40: Tartak is taken to beat two unconvincing rivals in Kicks For Free and Calgary Bay. On the assumption three miles stretched his stamina last time, Tartak has his chance at this level today.

2.10: This is a tough race but Private Be appears to be heading in the right direction and could be worth chancing.

3.20: The stable are confident Franchoek will regain winning ways today. I wonder if we saw the best of him last year. He does have to concede weight to the useful Five Dream and whilst respecting the message, it is not one I shall act on.

3.55: Similarly, Steptoe is fancied here but I am no lover of bumpers, believing you will lose by betting on them in the long run, and will be leaving this alone.

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

1.35: Back to 1m 6f will suit Dart who is taken to beat fully exposed types.

Not an easy start to the year: I suggest Tartak and Private Be, both at Cheltenham, may represent our best chance. For those considering multiple bets (where the price is not so crucial if a horse wins) then Alexanderthegreat could be included.

December Archive Free Racing tips from Spy


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DECEMBER


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WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 31st

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

LINGFIELD is the only surviving English meeting today.   It looks temptingly possible that we can end the year on a positive note:

2.00: Maswerte showed enough last time to suggest he can reverse placings with Today’s The Day, particularly over this extra furlong.

12.30: Wind Flow is certainly up to winning a seller against geriatrics.

1.00: Despite a dodgy draw, Cut And Thrust (excuses last time) is taken to beat the disappointing Captain Walcot.

2.00: Mister Thatcher can beat a moderate bunch here. Of his two main dangers, Mistress Cooper is better over five and River Kirov is beginning to look exposed and badly drawn.

3.30: Finally, as an observation, Perfect Act is well-handicapped if she can be forgiven her last run when she ran too badly to be true.


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TUESDAY DECEMBER 30th

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

The all-weather cards are disappointing. Possibly the talented but quirky Titan Triumph will win again at Lingfield. But I would hesitate to recommend him as a bet although the tight track and Polytrack seems to have revitalised his interest in the game.   A quiet day from this quarter and possibly until the Cheltenham meeting on New Year’s Day.


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MONDAY DECEMBER 29th

NEWBURY RACING TIPS

An interesting rather than potentially profitable card. Dave’s Dream is a horse expected to produce great things, particularly when put to fences. Some locals have even backed him to win the Gold Cup, but that is a long way down the line. China Gold is expected to step up on his last run when blowing up but may not be in the same class as the Nicky Henderson representative.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS

1.50: Don’t Stop Me Now may make the weight allowance count against West With The Wind, but it is a tight call.

2.20: Gringo will be suited by this track and looks to have every chance of providing a double for the Howard Johnson stable.

GREAT LEIGHS

3.05: Dover Street Art could be the best bet of the day. Tartan Gunna’s habit of breaking slowly (had to be blindfolded for entry last time) is off-putting. Dover Street Art ran well on his debut and looks like he has plenty more to offer…


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SUNDAY DECEMBER 28th

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

Essentially a quiet day today:   Turn On The style should follow up his recent Southwell success  in the 2.45.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS

For those of a little more adventurous nature, Matuhi could be worth a second look in the 3.35. He was out of his depth in both company and trip last time and this presents a much more realistic target.


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SATURDAY DECEMBER 27th

Bookmakers took a hammering yesterday but one senses they are expecting a revival in fortunes today with complex cards and only a few races offering potential value:

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

1.05: Balzaccio is said to be improving fast and they fancy their chances of overturning the favourite, Starluck, who although impressive, did only win at Fakenham beating a horse that has failed to win since. Balzaccio looks a value alternative.

2.15: Little makes appeal here. Royal Darling has always been a dubious proposition and is essentially a hurdler. Alright Now M’Lad, admittedly from a stable appearing to find its form, only won a minor Newbury event and has a weight rise to overcome. I am tempted with Big Fella Thanks but have been told by my National Hunt colleagues not to be so silly!

3.15: Petit Robin is a stable positive but this is much tougher than the race he won at Newbury. No value in his price, but he did win with a great deal in hand and may be up to justifying the high reputation he has always enjoyed.

CHEPSTOW RACING TIPS

12.55: Herecomesthetruth looks capable of winning this, particularly in the light of Pressgang’s victory yesterday.

WETHERBY RACING TIPS

1.55: Sacrilege should take advantage of the weight he receives from the penalised duo of Art Exhibition and Pemberton.

2.30: Tot O’ Whisky looks as if this reduction in trip will suit and he is taken to get back on the winning trail over this trip.


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FRIDAY DECEMBER 26th

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

12.55: Hot Diamond will be suited by this sharp track and the drying out ground. He barely stays two miles but has ability and could surprise. A very speculative selection

2.05: Snap Tie faces a formidable rival in Punjabi but is seen as a serious threat. Third to Captain Cee Bee and Binocular in the Supreme at Cheltenham last season, his reappearance run when beating Katchit over this course suggests he may yet enter Champion Hurdle reckoning. He looks a value alternative to the favourite.

2.40: Air Force One is the logical option to Kauto Star. There is a train of thought that he is best going right-handed; that is nonsense. Although the majority of his wins have been that way round, his best form is at Cheltenham and Newbury. He will stay, is on the upgrade and must have a fair chance on his Hennessy effort.

3.15: Pressgang looks the one to beat here.

3.45: Stripe Me Blue ran well on his reappearance at Newbury. On the face of it the form has not been franked; but there are reasons for that and Stripe Me Blue (particularly with the jockey booking of Ruby Walsh for an outside ride), makes it look as if he has been trained with this in mind.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

3.15 Passage To India is taken to go one better than when a credible second at Southwell last time. She made up ground that day from a difficult position and should appreciate the extra trip.

TOWCESTER RACING TIPS

12.55 Fiftyonefiftyone ran well enough at Ascot to suggest he can win

WETHERBY RACING TIPS

Tidal Bay injects plenty of interest at Wetherby in the 1.45. Trying three miles for the first time, he is short enough but looks likely to be suited by the trip. His class should be decisive.

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS

Starburst Diamond is taken to win the 12.20 at Huntingdon. He created an impression last season and should win today.

WINCANTON RACING TIPS

I am tempted with Elusive Dream in the 1.15 at Wincanton but fearful of Galient at the weights. Kempton looks the value card, Snap Tie, Air Force One, Pressgang and Stripe Me Blue all look interesting propositions.


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TUESDAY DECEMBER 23rd

There are three messages on a day when it would have been reasonable to have expected none. However…

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

12.30: Likely favourite Joannadarc is expected to win and looks the one to beat. But True Blue Wizard is apparently fancied and is likely to attract support.

FONTWELL RACING TIPS:

12.45: Limbo King is quite a strong call from Newmarket. The form of the stable would be something of a concern though.   Bush Telegraph will be back in good time for Boxing Day and a couple of articles will be posted in the meantime.    Best wishes for a happy holiday from all in this particular branch of the Bob Rothman empire.


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MONDAY DECEMBER 22nd

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS:

3.00: Azabu Juban has a good chance of winning this returned to Polytrack, but she has been busy recently and that is the negative that can get this sort of horse beaten. Add to that the fact this looks a harder assignment than those faced at Southwell, and she is unlikely to be paper price and I shall let her go.  Today’s Flat cards look tricky; Kempton in particular offers little that is appealing.

HEREFORD RACING TIPS:

1.40: I can pass on a good word for Tifoso here. On his first run since coming to this country there is little I can add.

2.10: Oliver Sherwood has his team in fine form. He could have two winners today but Six Day War looks the better of the two from a betting point of view and could be worthy of consideration.

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SUNDAY DECEMBER 21st:

A selection of free racing tips and comments

 

GREAT LEIGHS RACING TIPS

2.50: Wellington Square won with authority last time and should follow up today. He looks progressive.

3.50: Flipando was an unlucky loser for us last time and has every chance to make amends today. He would nearly have beaten Internationaldebut but for being pushed wide last time and providing he gets a smoother passage today then, from the same mark, he has to be knocking on the door. 


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Saturday 20th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

ASCOT RACING TIPS

12.30: My Petra is hard to oppose.

1.05: Trabolgan is reported to need the run. Running off the mark that saw him win a Hennessy, he may still make fools of the message men but his stable mate Oedipe seems to have better prospects in a difficult race.

1.40; Binocular is fancied for those brave enough to take a short price against such decent opposition.

2.10: Punchestowns is seen as the best of the day from the powerful Henderson stable, who field a very strong contingent today.

2.45: Belcantista looks as if he may have sneaked under the handicapper’s radar.


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Friday 19th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

ASCOT RACING TIPS

12.45: Fistral Beach may not be quite the good thing he looks here. Obviously his second to Belcantista reads well, but his jumping was sketchy and the winner did it easily. Midnight Sail may have something to find but is reported a stuffy individual who needs a run or two to reach fitness and improvement on his Warwick third is expected. He looks a solid each-way alternative.

2.30: Although he may just need the run, Turkish Surprise is held in very high esteem. In what looks a tight enough race as it is, despite being the outsider of the party, his presence makes an already complicated affair all the harder to solve. He is expected to run well.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

9.20: This race seems a long way away and most of us will be watching Have I Got News For You whilst it is taking place. This is one of the problems with the current racing programme. Are we supposed to have no other life? That aside, Perfect Act did not get the best of runs last time and is taken to turn the tables on Aeroplane in a race not many can win. Aeroplane did not find too much last time and the suspicion is he may be feeling something as he came there to win his race only to curl up. He has the right man on top tonight but does not appeal as one to take a short price about, whereas Perfect Act looks a potential value bet.


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Thursday 18th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS:

Southwell Is fraught with imponderables. Blaise Tower should win the 1.00 but without experience on the track has to be considered a dodgy proposition. The same remark applies to Prairie Hawk in the 2.00 who, being by Hawk Wing, cannot be guaranteed to reproduce Monday’s impressive performance so soon after that run.

Finally, in the 3.30, the step up in trip may not be ideal for This Ones For Eddy. These horses are not being advanced as lays but do not appeal as bets.

EXETER RACING TIPS:

1.20: Back to hurdles, William Bonney, on a track and ground that will suit, is taken to recover the winning thread. He is a better hurdler than chaser and should appreciate this switch back to timber.

GREAT LEIGHS RACING TIPS:

8.20: I know Matsunosuke is making a meal of winning, but the 6/1 offered by Ladbrokes this morning is too good to overlook. Faced with soft opposition, if he reproduces either of his last two runs he can win this. I may be asking for trouble in nominating him but at the price, I am prepared to look foolish. Failure to win tonight means he has to be disregarded in future. This is his chance!


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Tuesday 16th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

NEWBURY RACING TIPS

12.20: Normally an informative novice hurdle, which often has a bearing on Triumph Hurdle betting. Hebridean and Zaynar are the interesting recruits, whilst Psi is another with credentials on French form. Unless you know better, I suggest this is a race to sit out, although I do know of one very well-connected judge that is backing Walkon. Unless the opposition is not as strong as it looks, surely Walkon faces a stiff task with his penalty.

3.35: Shilpa is fancied here but cannot be recommended with so many unknown quantities in opposition.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

2.45: Epsom Salts had every chance of racking up the four-timer here eight days ago, particularly as the second-favourite went wrong, but was run out of it. I am inclined to think he has reached the buffers and feel Vinces (dead-heated with yesterday’s narrow loser Azabu Juban last time) may be of interest despite the fact he is still a maiden. He has a good draw and the services of Hayley Turner.

3.15: Watch for any market move for Bullet Man who is considered better than his last run.


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Tuesday 16th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

12.40: First-timer on the track, Passage To India, looks the interesting contender. By Indian Ridge out of a College Chapel mare, the surface should suit and she comes from a stable adept at placing horses. She may be worth taking a small chance with.

2.10: Azabu Juban could well improve for this step up in trip and if she stays, has little to beat.

3.10: After such a long time kick starting a winning career, This Ones For Eddy won so easily last time he must have every chance of following up


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Monday 15th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

More interesting stuff expected mid week and nothing excites me today so I will speak tomorrow.


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Sunday 14th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

Just one suggestion today:

Spellchecker 12.55 Musselburgh. After only two attempts over timber he looks less exposed than his opponents in the maiden hurdle. His connections should not leave this meeting empty-handed, but form a betting point of view it is Spellchecker that looks the most interesting.


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Saturday 13th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

RACING TIPS

Racing today at Cheltenham is described as being long odds against. Standing water at a little after 9am combined with continual rain, means that only the biggest optimist could expect to see racing today. Should it go ahead, an updated bulletin will be posted but it goes without saying this is not a day to back horses at short-prices.

Elsewhere there is little of interest.

Greenbridge is apparently fancied in the 12.30 at Doncaster.

As I don’t envisage having a bet, I am not going to waffle about horses with half-chances. The purpose of this piece is to keep you informed and point you in the right direction. That would appear to be away from the betting shop or racecourse on a day like this.


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Friday 12th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

CHELTENHAM RACING TIPS

Possibly an informative card today but a difficult one:

12.10: Ballyfitz faces a serious rival in What A Friend who was impressive at Uttoxeter in a race he had won from a long way out. Tot O’ Whisky has to be added to the mix, if only because he jumps and stays. Ballyfitz may win, although Big Fella Thanks did not boost the form yesterday (excuses can be forwarded), but you do not wasn’t to be guessing odds-on shots.

12.45: It is hard to be enthusiastic about those at the top of the weights. Pennek shaped with a good deal of promise behind Punchestowns over this course last time and, despite his inexperience, may not have too much to beat here in a race largely comprising of exposed horses.

1.55: For those mad enough, a case can be made for course winner, Irish Raptor. Again the opposition looks fully exposed.

2.30: They have found the right race for Shouldhavehadthat with his revised rating.

3.05: On a card that could have been devised by bookmakers, Gloucester, who was travelling well when brought down in a race won by Sunnyhillboy, looks a fair form selection. He makes little appeal at the 7/2 offered by Ladbrokes though and his win-to-run-ratio is a negative.

3.40: Mahonia and Karabak are the two protagonists here and one of them should win. The question is, which one.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS

12.00: Being beaten eighteen lengths at Fakenham is hardly encouraging for a horse priced at 2/1 here. Laterly faces some potentially useful debutants.

1.10 The same remarks applies to Honest John who was beaten 25 lengths in a poor contest at Aintree. You would think something would be capable of beating him.

1.45 Similarly, Calgary Bay has a history of finding little off the bridle and his chance may be compromised by his attitude.


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Thursday 11th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

The racing today is likely to be more interesting than potentially profitable.

TAUNTON RACING TIPS

1.20: Big Fella Thanks is obviously no betting proposition but the style of his assumed win will tell us more about his future and that of Ballyfitz, impressive when beating him last time.    

1.50: Thundering Star is another that makes no betting appeal. He is likely to be long odds-on but looks useful and should take another step forward.

2.20: Kia Kaha may halt the Nicholls bandwagon. Herecomesthetruth does not look an easy ride. 

HUNTINGDON RACING TIPS

At present the meeting is not certain to take place. The feature, the Peterborough Chase, is tantamount to a Southwell handicap from my perspective. It seems you could run it four times and get four different results. I haven’t got a clue what will win but have to question what Snoopy Loopy, a proven stayer, is doing in the line-up. I Suppose Mr Bowen knows what he is doing!

GREAT LEIGHS RACING TIPS

7.20: Fresh from a promising first run when not beaten far, Major Phil looks primed to go close and the absence of Kingsgate Storm since Royal Ascot casts a doubt on his wellbeing 


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Wednesday 10th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

1.30: Parnassian is weighted to beat Three Strings after a run on this surface. His liking for soft ground means he should be capable of being fully effective on Fibresand. The downside – there invariably is one here – is that he is eight-years-old, coming up nine. That is offset by a mark of 59. He ought to go close.

3.00: Ladbrokes appear to have had a brainstorm yesterday as their betting on the 3.00 looks wide of the mark. Their favourite, Resplendent Nova, is unproven on the track and the second in was beaten in a claimer last time. Imprimis Tagula has achieved both his wins at this track and looks overpriced at 8/1. They have also taken a cavalier attitude over Spectait.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS

 7.50: Global is the most interesting contender of the day. Lightly raced and therefore a horse the handicapper has been forced into guessing, it looks as if he may have been underestimated from a mark of 71. A winner last time at Lingfield over seven, an extra furlong on this quicker track should not offered as an excuse.


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Tuesday 9th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SOUTHWELL RACING TIPS

SOUTHWELL can be the graveyard for many a well-thought out selection, but there are two interesting runners there today that warrant small stake involvement.

1.00: At something approaching his best, Turn On The Style is different class to his opponents here. An all-important course winner who won a competitive Dubai event in February, he was also a somewhat unfortunate loser at Doncaster from a 10lbs higher mark in September. With plans afoot to return to Dubai this winter, he has to figure in the numbers today to justify such thoughts. Grossly overpriced and worth taking a chance with.

2.30: Dart can regain the winning thread over this trip and on a track she has won on. She failed to see out the extended two miles last time and in all probability does not get two. Although a winner over that trip, the race she won was run at a farcical pace (eighteen seconds slow) and this trip of 1m 6f should be right up her alley. She only has the stiffly handicapped Pertemps Networks to beat. .


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Monday 8th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

3.00: Epsom Salts ought to record the four-timer, particularly aided by the 5lbs allowance of his rider. Not betting material but hardly a horse to oppose in his current form.

WOLVERHAMPTON  RACING TIPS

4.40: River Kirov should follow up on a cosy win in a poor race. He looks the sort to attract plenty of morning money.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS

1.20: A race for the burglars! Red Moloney has Flat form that puts him in here with a ton in hand. However, there is the small matter of the obstacles – known to be a great leveller. The two alternatives are clear cut: Skylancer and King in Waiting. Skylancer would appear better on softer ground and on a more galloping track so King In Waiting, travelling okay in difficult conditions last time when unseating, could be the each-way value.

Hardly an inspiring day on the betting front but, as always, possibilities there for those inclined to take a chance


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Sunday 7th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

LINGFIELDS RACING TIPS

With Warwick and Kelso already victims to frost and Punchestown inspecting later, LINGFIELD looks the only safe venue.

2.30: Whistledownwind may not make a great deal of appeal on paper, but he has been set tasks that were beyond him all season. It was clear after the Sandown Classic Trail he was no stayer yet, despite a pedigree that suggested what the eyes confirmed, he was campaigned over trips in double figures, even contesting the St Leger! New trainer, Jeremy Noseda, seems to have cottoned on to this not desperately hard to grapple with fact. After a reasonable turf effort over a mile, he looks an interesting contender. He is an alternative to form horse Markab.

3.00: Winner of this last year, Grande Caiman, is 8lbs higher despite a period in the  wilderness since. All his wins have come at Lingfield. It appears he only has War Of The Roses to beat. .


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Saturday 6th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SANDOWN RACING TIPS

A great card by any standards:

12.50: I am informed Blazing Desert is better than his last run indicates. He would need to be to get involved today, but this may not be that hard a contest. There is a chance Blazing Desert may be a morning glory but include him in any perm-like or miracle-bet selections.

1.25: There is plenty of confidence behind Earth Crystal in a very difficult race to fathom.

2.00: Free World skipped round here last time in impressive fashion and is hard to oppose.

2.35: All about opinion! Master Minded did beat below-par opponents at Cheltenham and for those looking to oppose him, the time was slow. Tidal Bay is the only logical alternative.

 3.05: I can pass on a good word for Sunnyhillboy here. Main danger would appear to be Tchico Polos but, on what could be a big day for Tony McCoy, Sunnyhillboy is taken to provide a big fillip for his connections.

GREAT LEIGHS RACING TIPS

3.30: A mark of 100 is pushing it for Diriculous, but he faces opponents similarly nailed by the handicapper. His determination and record on Polytrack should make him hard to beat in a race likely to be set up by Maltese Falcon.

WETHERBY RACING TIPS

Fabalu may kick off the Wetherby card and

WOLVERHAMPTON RACING TIPS

Convivial Spirit is overdue a win and may open proceedings at Wolverhampton tonight for those still in the game by 6.20.


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Friday 5th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

SANDOWN RACING TIPS

12.50: Tuanku is fancied by his yard to beat Helium.

1.25: Rustarix is seen as the stable’s best chance today by connections. I was looking for something to oppose this horse with on the basis it was a poor contest he won last time. This may be weak and I am not sure what will win it but have no inclination to back Rustarix. Opinion is what this game is about!

2.35: Nothing clever about nominating Roll Along but they have chosen this event from several alternatives and his beating of Air Force One needs no endorsement.

LINGFIELD RACING TIPS

12.10: Kings Destiny did well to go so close from his bad draw last time. A tendency to pull too hard (evident at Newbury) seems to have been curbed. He ought to get favourite backers off to a flying start.

1.50: Noverre To Go should be up to winning this.

2.25: This is a tight race but with his poor draw and penalty, Internationaldebut looks plenty short enough this morning with Ladbrokes at 2/1. He may be getting on in years, but Flipando shows little sign of decline. He has run well all season on unsuitable ground. This surface equates to a firm surface, which is more to his liking and he looks overpriced.

EXETER RACING TIPS

1.00: Franchoek may struggle to concede weight to a progressive Hector’s Choice


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Thursday 4th December

A selection of free racing tips and comments

Today’s National Hunt racing has to be of limited interest as weather conditions are surely going to further complicate difficult cards.

MARKET RASEN RACING TIPS

1.00: Circus Of Dreams looks the one to beat, although I have had a word for Fabalu here. No bet for me.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS

3.10: Fences and this extra trip may bring out the best in the so-far disappointing Phaoudamour.

WINCANTON RACING TIPS

2.50: Matcho Pierji looks an interesting contender in the same ownership as Phoudamour.

GREAT LEIGHS RACING TIPS

6.50: Hellbender was narrowly touched off last week and has every chance of making amends tonight against similar opposition. He really ought to win.

7.20: This Ones For Eddy – ostensibly withdrawn on a vet’s certificate on Monday when badly drawn – makes a Lazarus-style comeback tonight. He is a serial-loser so any confidence has to be tempered, but is well handicapped and the fact he was withdrawn on Monday gives rise to the theory he is poised to run as well as he can. This is a race for monkeys. Rabbit Fighter is another who could win if consenting to put his best paw forward. This Ones For Eddy however is likely to be the horse for money.

7.50: A handicap that looks between the hard to asses Incarnation and Weybridge Light.

8.20: Any money for Yellow River should be heeded. She would not have to be much to win this and her form in France suggests she should hold her own here. This is her first run for two months however. .


November Archive Free racing Tips from Spy


BUSH TELEGRAPH

NOVEMBER


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

PLUMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

Solid As A Rock could be just that in the 3.10  today


BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY

 Some days you don’t quite know what to say. I don’t want to come across as being negative but by the same token I don’t wish to encourage people to back horses I am not going to back myself. Finding half-chance horses is always possible but unless they are juicy prices I take the view there is little point.   If there are any die-hards out there who like to consult this item before betting, then I can throw a couple of possibilities your way.

SOUTHWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

12.50

Five furlongs and Southwell is a successful recipe for Godfrey Street. Came Back’s tame exit (when he looked fit) at Kempton is off-putting and in any case his best form is at six furlongs.

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

2.30: The visor did not seem to work last time for Cragganmore Creek. He is one of few guaranteed to stay the trip in a race that surely only concerns five runners.

2.30: Clerk’s Choice gets the nod in a tight race. These are only selections. At present it is hard to nominate much with confidence; but racing opportunities come and go in waves and the situation will turn.

Incidentally, I would be keen on Tidal Bay in the King George. Whatever your view of the Haydock outcome had he stood up, the run of Snoopy Loopy in the Hennessy does place Kauto Star in perspective. I think Kauto Star is vulnerable to an up and coming type in Tidal Bay who has never ceased to surprise. He does look a prospective star. The plan is to run in the Tingle Creek this weekend. I would prefer to see him go to Kempton a fresh horse but I am not the trainer who, it ought to be said, has done precious little wrong with this horse so far.


BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

Something of a guessing game in progress today; however:

WOLVERHAMTON RACECOURSE NOTES

2.10: For those brave enough, a chance could be taken with Jubilant Note who has useful hurdles form in his native Ireland. Two recent spins on turf and experience at the competitive Dundalk track is to his advantage. He runs for an apprentice or amateur, should appreciate the extra trip, wears a visor for the first time and has made the trip from Ireland. Hang on, this horse has so many positives, it must be a good thing! Of course, this is the trap we can fall into on the all-weather. This horse has won once in eighteen attempts and has been sent here in the hope the pickings are easier than in Ireland. Like so many contenders at this venue, it is a desperate roll of the dice to try and get the beast to oblige. But I think he is worth a second look.

4.40: Another and more seasoned member of the desperation stakes is set to run here in This Ones For Eddy. Undoubtedly well-handicapped, this piece of trickery is still a maiden after fourteen runs and therein lies the rub. The trip may suit but the draw won’t. Worth watching with another day – possibly Armageddon – in mind.

FONTWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

Just to complete the joke, Doctored is overdue a win in this grade and has his chance in the 12.30


BUSH TELEGRAPH SUNDAY

A poor day’s racing and a chance for many to get the dreaded Christmas shop out of the way early!   Networker may be worth a second look in the last at Kempton for those anxious to bet, but I shall be giving the day a miss.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

NEWBURY RACECOURSE NOTES

Yesterday’s choppy ground tempers confidence.

12.25: Well thought of Cockney Trucker should be hard to beat here, especially as he receives weight from American Trilogy.

1.00: Tricky Trickster may be worth rowing in with. A winner over Points, he can jump and is apparently considered useful.

2.05: Good luck to Inglis Drever, but surely not a bet!

2.40: The complexion of the Hennessy changed with the rise in weights. I was all set to have a decent bet on Air Force One when it looked likely he would carry only 10st 3lbs. All that has changed and on this ground, with over a stone more, he will need to put in a Denman-like performance to win. I prefer his chance to Big Buck’s but think both have to overcome a big hill if not a mountain to win.

 

3.45: Hot Diamond may be outstayed in these conditions but he runs off a favourable mark, was beaten by a very good horse last time and will be winning soon.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

4.00: A race that revolves round class act, General Eliott. A reproduction of his Newmarket efforts behind Virtual and Eagle Mountain wins this; but one has to factor in a poor effort in between and the fact he has had training problems. This surface should help him though and he is difficult to oppose.

Judging by the TV pictures, Newcastle are wasting their time inspecting as the prospects of racing appear nil.


BUSH TELEGRAPH FRIDAY

NEWBURY RACECOURSE NOTES

1.00: Mount Helicon, an expensive purchase from France, is subject of appropriate reports for the money he cost. Likely to be short and should leapfrog his way towards the head of the Triumph Hurdle betting after today

2.05: These Pertemps races are always tricky for obvious reasons (you qualify for the final by turning up). With the ground likely to be against Galient, it is worth pointing out that favourite, Ballydub, finished second to an apparently unfancied runaway winner Punchestowns last time – a run that could flatter.

2.40: Ring The Boss, who does not find much at the business end, has been disappointing and, in a race up for grabs, faces no easy task against three highly promising rivals.

3.45: This is tricky with bumper form being transferred to hurdles. There is a message for China Gold.

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

1.20: Blessing is fancied. On her Newmarket run she would win but one has to forgive two poor efforts either side.

MUSSELBURGH RACECOURSE NOTES

12.40: Don’t Stop Me Now is expected to be suited by this track, after jumping to her right last time.

2.20: Los Nadis is worth a second look. A winner on this card last year, his second last week, although a million miles away from a race like this, demonstrates his wellbeing and, a most consistent performer who goes well for his claiming rider, he should go close against more realistic opposition than Binocular.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

8.50: On a day full of speculative suggestions, I cannot resist the 20/1 available about Aeroplane. This is a drop in grade for him and the surface may bring out the best in a horse that has had the odd problem or two. .


 BUSH TELEGRAPH THURSDAY

A poor days racing and I’m taking the opportunity to watch some interesting horses on the gallops at Lambourn instead.  A better investment of time than ploughing through sub standard racing. The quality animal I’m going to watch should pay the Xmas expenses.


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

Today’s card could result in another successful afternoon for the Nicky Henderson yard. They field several fancied contenders but are most keen on Boomshakalaka in the 3.15. He is reported to be in good shape and the opposition does not look strong.

French Opera can win the 1.00 but confidence is tempered The story is the same with Treasury Counsel. Georgian King, who jumped well enough before unseating his rider on his debut, is the one they fear most. Hora is another  with a chance, although Lord Ragnar is somewhat green and may not be ready for this sort of test yet.

CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE NOTES

2.15: Tamadot looks primed to win this.


BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY

A poor day by any standards and one best left to its own devices. There are no messages.


 BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

LUDLOW RACECOURSE NOTES

If only back to a semblance of what he once promised, Opera De Coeur ought to win this. Obviously he has a lengthy absence and some sort of training problem to overcome but, so often first time back is the time to catch such animals and he may be worth taking a chance with.

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

12.30:   Lord Chancellor may get the better of the only other serious runner, Sonning Gate, in what is clearly a two-horse race. Both ran with promise on their debuts. Lord Chancellor’s run looks marginally better in the belief that his proximity to Three Moons [ties in with the useful Midday] gives him the edge.

2.00: River Kirov looks likely to be a short price to follow up on a clever win on Saturday. Obviously he has been brought out quickly in order to beat the handicapper, but has to win over an unproven trip. This is possibly a race to sit out, although if back to anywhere near his best and over a suitable trip, Convivial Spirit, who has won over a 9lbs higher mark, would be capable of springing a surprise.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SUNDAY

Despite rumours to the contrary, I am only human and some days just don’t seem worth the trouble. For me, this is such a day that falls into that category, so I will merely pass on two pieces of information I have received and wish you well…

TOWCESTER RACECOURSE NOTES

2.25: Gold Reef

AINTREE RACECOURSE NOTES

12.30: Fairyland .


 

BUSH TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

3.20: BRONZE CANNON looks the day’s best bet. By Lemon Drop Kid, he is sure to appreciate his surface and has a touch of class. A reproduction of his run at Newmarket would just about see him win this; any improvement would be a bonus. As always in competitive heats round here, some luck in running is required.

3.50: Is a hard contest. Being a hold up horse, the wide draw may not be such a disadvantage to Chief Editor who, on paper, has Prohibit to beat.

ASCOT RACECOURSE NOTES

1.55: If the Elusive Dream we saw at Aintree last March is the Elusive Dream we see today, he can beat Chomba Womba and Crack Away Jack. A line through Whiteoak gives him the beating of his two main rivals.

HUNTINGDON RACECOURSE NOTES

12.40: News received suggests that Walkon is very useful and expected to win at the first time of asking.


BUSH TELEGRAPH FRIDAY

 There is nothing on the wires today.   There is every chance of a bet tomorrow. .


BUSH TELEGRAPH THURSDAY

MARKET RASEN RACECOURSE NOTES

2.40: Quentin D’Ex is strongly fancied to open his account over British fences. His stable are apparently confident.

On a day of limited opportunities, when betting is not compulsory, nothing else makes any appeal


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

WARWICK RACECOURSE NOTES

1.50: Midnight Sail apparently needed his last run and is said to have improved since. This looks a tricky contest but he should go well, certainly if reproducing useful bumper form from last season.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

6.20: In nominating Came Back here, I am contravening a few established precedents. Firstly, he has not run for 96 days, secondly, he is drawn in the restaurant in two. To take the first point: The fact this is a claimer indicates this horse ought to be fit. There is no point in targeting a claimer for a horse that needs the run. That defeats the object! The draw might cause a problem or two but the opposition is not strong and several of these should be out with the washing by halfway, allowing Neil Callan a clear passage. Main danger, Little Edward is ten and Bazguy is 10lbs worse off with Came Back for three-parts of a length. He really ought to win this!

 7.20: Dialect takes a drop in grade having finished third to Apple Charlotte at Newmarket. However, that did not look a strong maiden by Newmarket standards and she would be vulnerable to anything half-smart.

 7.50: Red Alert Day has plenty in his favour tonight. Bonus is better over six, although he is effective over seven. Confuchias seems best on easy ground so this surface does not appear ideal. At eleven, it is hard to believe Quito can win so, all arrows point the way of Red Alert Day.


 

BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY

SOUTHWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

1.50: Cut And Thrust, from a mark of 58, can surely win this. I know I am flying in the face of all that has been stated: no more bets at Southwell, and his draw may be disadvantageous. I don’t know. I am confused dot com. I only know if he reproduces his latest effort over this course when hunting up a strongly fancied horse, he should win. But…Watch the earlier races and see if the inside is churned up as it was the last time I saw racing from this place.

FOLKESTONE RACECOURSE NOTES

Again, I am forced into a an about-turn, having sworn never to take notice of messages from the Alan King stable after two such pieces of news proved so wide of the mark searchlights were needed. They look like the yard to follow here and apparently their best is considered to be Rustarix in the 1.40.   Don’t shoot the mssenger…


BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

 4.00: MATSUNOSUKE has plenty going for him today and it is worth taking a chance with an infrequent winner on the basis that what he doesn’t do today – he is not going to do in the future. The draw, the trip, the track and the fact he has been dropped 4lbs having raced at Southwell and before that over six furlongs, means he has the best chance he will get at this level. Arganil is the one to beat.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

 Torrens has every chance in the 2.40 and a market move for Jake The Snake should be heeded in the 5.10.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SUNDAY

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE NOTES

Some interesting racing once again but caution seems the watchword on the betting front.

1.10: Straw Bear has a point to prove today if he is to get off the mark over fences. A fragile sort over hurdles, there is the suspicion that he may lack the constitution for the rough and tumble of this game. With Tatenen carrying a 6lbs penalty, this is Straw Bear’s chance at this level after a quiet introduction at Exeter. He really ought to win but I am reluctant to back him.

2.20: The message for Aigle d’Or is very strong. Muted as a possible Champion Hurdle horse, the way this race has fallen apart means he is in a strong position to win today if he is the horse they claim him to be. The ground was blamed for his disappointing run at the Festival; it should suit now and there will be no excuses should he fail to deliver. I  expect King’s Revenge to run a decent race at a price but have to row in with AIGLE d’OR despite breaking every sensible rule by backing an inexperienced novice at a short price in such a competitive affair.

PUNCHESTOWN RACECOURSE NOTES

All eyes here will be on Jered in the Maplewood Hurdle. This is his chance to consolidate his position as a possible Champion Hurdle winner. If there is a danger, I am more inclined to believe it is Won In The Dark, who had a prep-race two weeks ago on the Flat, rather than Sizing Europe who needs to bounce back from a troubling performance at Cheltenham last time we saw him. Basically a race to watch.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE NOTES

1.25: It is difficult to split West End Rocker and Big Fella Thanks on their excellent runs at Chepstow in October. There is only a wafer between them and a mistake one way or the other today over these demanding fences could decide today’s result.

2.00: This presents a betting opportunity. For me, the race rests between Halcon Genelardais and Joe Lively. Halcon Genelardais looks sure to give his running but faces a stiff task under his weight.He has his conditions but this is a big ask. JOE LIVELY could be well-handicapped. A one time Sun Alliance hope who runs Cheltenham well, he has a good record at this half of the season and races at the right end of the handicap.He looks an interesting prospect at the weight.

2.35: A very difficult Paddy Power Gold Cup. I am prepared to dismiss Ashley Brook, Don’t Push It and Silverburn for various reasons but am unsure as to the winner.

3.10: Sullumo is seen as having a sporting chance in another tough contest.

UTTOXETER RACECOURSE NOTES

12.30: PHOUDAMOUR ran a race full of promise on this track a fortnight ago, snapping at the heels of the leaders in the closing stages and looking as if the run would bring him on. At a tricky course which he clearly handles (he won his bumper here), he is taken to realise his considerable potential.

GREAT LEIGHS RACECOURSE NOTES

3.35: Kings Destiny ran much to free last time and from an outside draw there must be an equal worry on that score today. Petrovsky is seen as a solid alternative. However, the Jarvis stable may win the following event with Ballet Dancer, although with Valletta in the field it is no foregone conclusion.


BUSH TELEGRAPH THURSDAY

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

2.50: MYSTERY SAIL looks to have a fine chance of gaining revenge on Rio Guru and Susi Spends on today’s revised terms. She is worth a small bet.


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

Not a bad day for National Hunt enthusiasts but perhaps one that is not over punter-friendly.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

12.30: The best message in what could be a warm novice hurdle is for Blazing Desert, said to be in the top division of his powerful stable’s novice hurdlers. He will need to be as good as they assert to represent a bet here, but certainly warrants a place on any short list.


BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY

 A moderate day’s racing and no selections of note


BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

There are two possibilities on today’s cards:

CARLISLE RACECOURSE NOTES

 1.55: Tot O’Whiskey looks worth consideration against unreliable opposition. Already a winner over this testing course and distance, he faces two beatable opponents in Faasel and Crozan. In what is likely to develop into a slog, Tot O’Whiskey has already proved he is up to the task.

SOUTHWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

Another proven performer, Victory Quest has a clear chance to do what he does best. Fully effective here and against Dart, who has stamina to prove, he will have no problem with conditions and is seen as a safe alternative.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

 

WINCANTON RACECOURSE NOTES

12.40: RAVELLO BAY is highly thought of and lines up against Tchico Polos as a very fancied candidate. She is receiving 13lbs less the mare’s allowance and is taken to make it count.

2.20: RING THE BOSS  did not make a semblance of a mistake at Cheltenham last month and on ground that suits him today, has to be the call against high class hurdler, Breedsbreeze, who is unproven over the bigger obstacles.   2.50: This is a big ask for little Katchit who has to concede weight in testing ground. It will be a very good performance from the Champion Hurdler to win this.

We have been set some knotty puzzles at DONCASTER. However, I have a couple of interesting ideas there which appear on PENNIES TO POUNDS.


BUSH TELEGRAPH FRIDAY

A very poor day’s  racing that seems to have attracted horses best ignored. For that reasons there are no ideas or bets today..


BUSH TELEGRAPH THURSDAY

HAYDOCK RACECOURSE NOTES

1.40: In receipt of 6lbs from Woolfall Treasure, Balzaccio has a clear chance to make amends for his Ludlow defeat – a defeat that has assumed greater credence since the win of Resounding Glory at Wetherby.

TOWCESTER RACECOURSE NOTES

2.30: Gold Reef is apparently expected to supplement the win in this race last year for her stable.

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

1.20: It is hard to get away from the claims of Rebecca De Winter in the Claimer. There are dangers associated with backing horses that plummet in grade so dramatically, but surely, even if not the same filly she was at the beginning of the season (which must be the case), she has sufficent in hand to beat these. It is also seen as significant that Richard Hughes takes the trouble to ride her.

GREAT LEIGHS RACECOURSE NOTES

6.20:  There is a word from Lambourn here for Hellbender..


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

HUNTINGDON RACECOURSE NOTES

1.40: Cosmea is of limited use at the price but apparently is on the upgrade and expected to defy a penalty.

CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE NOTES

1.30: Sagredo is considered better than his first run at Cheltenham indicates and may well show considerable improvement today.

NOTTINGHAM RACECOURSE NOTES

With soft ground forecast, one should tread carefully here.

2.30: Cocktail Party seems effective on soft, indeed it seems what she wants, so she may bounce back here.

 

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

On a day cluttered by guesswork, Spanish Moon is the class act here. Not always on his best behaviour, he has a clear chance if putting his best foot foreward.


BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY 

Two possibles (no more) today.

EXETER RACECOURSE NOTES

1.40: This looks a hot hurdle that could throw up several future winners. Clearly the fit, According To Dick is the one to beat. However, the Alan King yard are keen on the chances of Penharold who by all accounts compares favourably with their top novices.

SOUTHWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

2.30: Temple of Thebes looks overpriced with Ladbrokes this morning at 6/1. She showed she handled the surface with a good second last time and little improvement is required to beat some rivals that by and large have shown their hands.


BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

Just two horses worthy of some attention today.

WARWICK RACECOURSE NOTES

In the 3.10, Officier De Reserve, rated 140 over fences, has a clear-cut chance to win a novice hurdle against inferior oppostion.

WOLVERHAMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

 4.20: Tikka Massala may be worth a second look. She has already finished a neck in front of La Capriosa on her only start. Improvement is likely, particularly as, being by One Cool Cat, she should be at home on this surface. La Capriosa did finish fourth last time to the strongly fancied Rublevka Star who bolted to the start so her run may flatter her to a degree.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SUNDAY

HUNTINGDON RACECOURSE NOTES

There are two messages to relay at HUNTINGDON:

1.15: Uffa Fox is fancied in the opener. It falls into the, ‘If you say so’ category for me.

2.50: Georgian King has reportedly schooled well and the yard seem to feel he can beat Hold Em even though he has plenty to find on hurdles ratings. Again, a useful message if you have a view.

CARLISLE RACECOURSE NOTES

2.10: On very testing conditions, there has to be a question mark about Tidal Bay against the proven stayer Albertas Run. A race to watch.

SOUTHWELL RACECOURSE NOTES

3.00: Matsunosuke returns to his best trip of five furlongs but without experience on this track can only be watched. He is a horse currently waiting to win once he gets his optimum conditions.


BUSH TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

NEWMARKET RACECOURSE NOTES

3.20: Godolphin hold out high hopes that GOLD SOVERIEGN will be hard to beat here and he does look a fair each-way wager. Lease Of Life faces a big hike in class, Moynahan is a horse that has yet to fulfill his potential and although the trip will suit Whistledownwind he is on a high enough mark. Despite the numbers this race looks solvable and I am rowing in with the message for Gold Sovereign.

3.55: This looks a two-horse race between Bankable and Virtual. Bankable has done nothing wrong that you put your finger on except fail to win. In restrospect, his form with Eagle Mountain looks good enough, but in the belief that once horses get into the habit of losing it is hard to find their way back, I am giving the preference to the progressive VIRTUAL.

So two bets on what is Newmarket’s last card of the season.

Jump fans have an interesting day but there are too many question marks over the cards for me to get involved. The Charlie Hall looks a poor race, full of the usual suspects. State of Play wins on the book but not in reality.

I can pass on a good word for Riverside Theatre in the 3.50 at Ascot. Backing bumpers with penalties is not the wisest course of action but the stable appear bullish.

October Archive – Tips from Spy


BUSH TELEGRAPH

OCTOBER


OCTOBER RACECOURSE WHISPERS

BUSH TELEGRAPH  FRIDAY

NEWMARKET RACECOURSE NOTES

12.40: They are keen on Emirates Roadshow here but confidence seems to stem from the knowledge nothing else appears fancied. On evidence so far this expensive American-bred looks no more than average. That may be good enough in a lack lustre event, but the reasoning for his winning is not what I personally like to hear. Expect him to be a short price.

3.00: This is a race that historically favours juveniles. This year’s crop look below par. Kaldoun Kingdom has the best credentials and acts on this ground. However, his form figures are disconcerting. With everything in his favour today, maybe he will rectify that. It is worth noting that Frognal has an eight pound pull for four lengths with Khor Dubai on Redcar running taking his rider’s claim into account. The ground is the leveller here. With neither proven on it, it is a guess but he may represent a bit of value.

UTTOXETER RACECOURSE NOTES

2.00: Pancake will handle the ground and has always appealed as a chaser. The size of a double-decker bus, he may come on for the run but if his jumping is as expected he could get away with it. Certainly he is an interesting recruit.


BUSH TELEGRAPH THURSDAY

At this crossover period of the two seasons, bets are presently few and far between. There is a fine card at LINGFIELD today but finding winners is not easy. Just to make it harder the emphasis in the feature races is on fillies which, as is constantly demonstrated, can catch us all out at this time of year. If maintaining her current progress then Storyland will take the beating in the 3.10 despite the rise in grade.

I am struggling to make some sense of he 3.40, a race that has a tempting look to it if you are prepared to take on Bazroy. Gallantry and Commander Cave are the two beckoning but Gallantary has to put up a personal best to win (not out of the question with optimum conditions in his favour) and Commander Cave is a horse heading in the opposite direction that is on a winning mark having slipped in the weights. I have to pass.

At STRATFORD there is a strong word for Bakbenscher in the 4.20. This seems a worse kept secret than the fact we are in recession. He is expected to take high rank but is already a short price and it is likely to become shorter. There is little point in backing horses of this type as bookmakers will be controlling the action. Stick him in your multiple bets by all means but there will be bigger fish to fry in the future.


BUSH TELEGRAPH WEDNESDAY

There are two possibilities today. From now on I am proposing earmarking bets as opposed to selections and ideas.

There are no actual bets today but it will be interesting to watch the run of Contretemps in the 4.30 at Great Leighs. He seemed to run out of stamina last time and failed to handle soft ground. The ground issue has been addressed but the step up in trip is surprising. With any other yard you would be tempted to think it is his third run for a handicap.

At Kempton, I am told Officer In Command is fancied in the 6.50.

In the 8.50, Cat Whistle, an ambitious selection last time, was arguably a shade unfortuate not to win. She faces no easy task but, at a time of year when she runs well and from an advantageous draw, is the one to beat. If she gets the breaks she should go close.


BUSH TELEGRAPH TUESDAY

Nothing of interest today on what has to be described as a poor afternoon of racing.


BUSH TELEGRAPH MONDAY

 

LEICESTER RACECOURSE NOTES

Caution is the watchword right now. A change in the ground at Leicester makes it tricky but looks likely to count against Young Mick in the 2.45. Spanish Hidalgo revels in the soft but a light campaign this season hints at a horse that has had a problem or two. This is his level and he may be worth chancing.

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

3.20: FALTICAV looked like a colt that had plenty more to offer when scoring at Kempton. Upped 6lbs, he can follow up here.


BUSH TELEGRAPH  SUNDAY

AINTREE RACECOURSE NOTES

3.15: With no Kauto Star to beat this time, in a race he won last year, MONET’S GARDEN is surely worthy of serious consideration.

4.25: CHINA GOLD is fancied here …

WINCANTON RACECOURSE NOTES

 … and the same yard accord a good chance to Russian Invader in the 2.20

LONGCHAMP RACECOURSE NOTES

In the Prix-Royal Oak at 2.50 and shown live on BBC2, GETAWAY, looks to have the best qualifications over a distance likely to pay to his strengths. Yeats has never won in France despite several opportunities and this trip looks short of his best. On the back of a tame run last time he looks opposable.


BUSH  TELEGRAPH SATURDAY

NEWBURY RACECOURSE NOTES

1.40: KING’S DESTINY is a stable message here and should be hard to beat.

DONCASTER: RACECOURSE NOTES

 3.35: I have a feeling that Jukebox Jury may be on the short side for this. Apparently there is little to choose between the Ballydoyle raiders, Masterofthehorse and Indian Ocean with the stable divided. This looks a tricky race to solve.

SANTA ANITA RACECOURSE NOTES

6.10: SIXTIES ICON should win this.

6.50: Fleeting Spirit is in great form and will be suited by the fast conditions. But a low draw seemed a disadvantage yesterday and beating the Americans in these sprint races is hard. She may win but everything will need to drop into place.

One or two of the other races have been covered in an article on ‘And Another Thing…’

A tough day today and one that requires a degree of caution.


Bush Telegraph Friday 24th October

DONCASTER RACECOURSE NOTES

A card designed by a maze-maker. No bets today


Bush Telegraph Thursday 23rd October

LUDLOW RACECOURSE NOTES

2.20 Balzacchio ex french, stable in flying ofrm and one of their better novices

3.55 Kerrimuir Lass bet in fine form and as long as ground stays as it is she wil take all the beating

GREAT LEIGHS RACECOURSE NOTES

7.20 Roblevka Star. Message received from Newmarket indicates she has improved since debut at Yarmouth. On the face of it she wouldn’t have to find too much to win this, and chances are she will attract morning support


WEDNESDAY 22nd October

BATH RACECOURSE NOTES

LASSO THE MOON falls into the category of being the obvious in the 2.00. He really ought to be good enough here after finishing second to Palavinci. Certainly the sort of selection that can be including in any multiple bets!

GREAT LEIGHS RACECOURSE NOTES

3.10: It may be MATSUNOSUKE’S turn today. A winner this time last year, forget his latest run at Bath but judged on his two preceeding runs he wins. With a good draw and on the assumption his trainer has factored in the fact the majority of his winning has been at five, he is back amongst more suitable company today.

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

8.20 OTAARED is expected to continue the current run of the Michael Jarvis stable. They feel he has been leniently treated on his handicap debut. That seems reasonable; however the price does not.


TUESDAY 21st October

 

LINGFIELD RACECOURSE NOTES

2.30: TEST MATCH, reportedly green on his debut, is expectd to be a lot sharper today and get off the mark.

YARMOUTH RACECOURSE NOTES

2.20: MEZENAH is expected to provide Godolphin with a two-year-old winner. Recent homework suggests she has come on considerably since her debut.

EXETER RACECOURSE NOTES

Stage a good card for jumping enthusiasts. The 2.40 looks like being a hot race. There are messages for the three from the big yards: Hector’s Choice, The Nightingale and Shalone. It is the last-named that seems the strongest although there is a train of thought within the Alan King yard that their horses might be just needing their first runs. For that reason Shallone may drift in the betting, resulting in him becoming a value each-way wager.


Monday 20th October

PONTEFRACT RACECOURSE NOTES

3.40: PLAYFELLOW is technically receiving 5lbs from the filly Lahaleeb who faces a tough task if turned out after her win at Newmarket on Saturday. Playfellow is well-fancied by his connections and his third to Westphalia and Zacinto at Doncaster represented improved form. The only possible negative for me is the stiff mile, which could conceivably stretch his stamina. On the assumption his excellent stable have factored this into their assessment he looks the call but, if Lahaleeb does not run his price will be too short to take a chance.

WINDSOR RACECOURSE NOTES

4.00: Inchwood is expected to provide the Michael Jarvis stable with a double. Her task does not look straightforward to me with the lightly raced and hard to assess Jaadull open to any amount of improvement.


Sunday 19th October

KEMPTON RACECOURSE NOTES

2.20: SATICON  is the subject of a strong message here and by all accounts will be hard to beat. He seems to have only two serious rivals: Maxwil and Newmarket juvenile winner, Fr Dominic.

2.50: Greenbridge has apparently schooled well over fences, which is what this game is all about.

4.35: On a big day for the Alan King yard, Katchit, although not fully wound up, should be capable of  successfully kick-starting his season.

Horseracing Tips -October Archive

SATURDAY 18th Oct

NEWMARKET:

2.05: Cat Junior is a suggestion. This trip will suit and the stable is in sparkling form.

2.35: Rip Van Winkle’s form needs radically improving upon to justify a ludicrous morning price. Huntdown and Delegator are seen as the possible alternatives, whilst Soul City should not be dismissed. This is a hard race to call despite the fact there is great value on offer due to the incorrect pricing of the favourite.

3.10: New Approach has had a hard season. I would not back him as his last run suggested he may be feeling the effects of being on the go since the Guineas. But I would not back against him as this is a sub-standard Group 1.

3.50: LIBERATE makes plenty of appeal in a race that may not be as hard to solve as the numbers suggest. First time cheekpieces will help him to concentrate and he is reported to be fit and in fine fettle.

5.00: UNSUNG HEROINE is a filly peaking at the right time of year after an excellent second in the St Leger. I know it is dangerous backing fillies at this time of year (demonstrated by Spacious yesterday), but I will make her the exception today on the assumption her sensible trainer would not risk her if he felt she was not able to do herself justice. Not forgetting she had the Oaks winner behind her at Doncaster on what was only her third run, her price of  9/4 appears generous.

CHELTENHAM: 3.25: Two-and-a-half miles is ideal for Bible Lord who spent too much of last year racing over the wrong trip. I would have taken a chance with him today but for his trainer’s negative comments in the Post. He wants watching though as he is capable of lifting this sort of prize when right.


 FRIDAY 17th October 

NEWMARKET:

3.45: SPACIOUS may not be a clever selection but she looks a solid prospect dropped in grade to Listed Class and stepped up to ten furlongs. On a day full of question marks, she ticks all the boxes. Two big-priced selections are available on Pennies To Pounds at Newmarket.

CHELTENHAM:

There are some decent types on show today and whilst it still seems early to be parting with cash, those thinking Ring The Boss faces an open goal in the 2.55 should be aware that Razor Royale is held in high regard by his stable and expected to make his mark over fences this year. He may give the favourite plenty to do.


THURSDAY 16th October:

The Racing Post headline tells it all: “Thursday Thriller” – a rematch between two old crocks – War of Attrition and Kicking King. Neither has won for two years and both are surely shadows of their former selves. Good luck to both but what odds one fails to finish?

NOTTINGHAM TIPS

1.40: Big Bound will be a warm order here.

2.40: Racing from a mark of 68, Johnny Rook is thrown in on his debut run at Newbury behind Orizaba. The trouble is it is not a run he has capitalised on. But he has been off the track for nearly three months that suggests something may have been ailing him. If it has been fixed then he could easily win this. Any market interest should be noted.

BRIGHTON TIPS

2.30: Roman Glory ought to win this but his third at Newmarket is not as good as it looks. It may be good enough but…

4.30: Sendreni is no nap but looks worth a small interest on the day. In a race that is little better than a seller, he has the form to go close and the booking of Richard Hughes looks significant.


MONDAY 6th October:

WINDSOR TIPS

3.00: CHEVIOT  looks to have a big chance here, particularly as his Newbury form has been boosted by the run of Neshri at Newmarket. The drop in trip will also help – should win.

WARWICK TIPS

2.30: BOUVARDIA looks well-treated, particularly in the light of Tiger Eye’s win at Newmarket.

4.20: OLYMPIC CITY probably has an easier task here than when beaten in a very competitve event at Kempton last time. Has won on soft and could reward a modest investment at a big price.

PONTEFRACT TIPS

4.10: DIAMOND YAS is surely better than claiming class and should be too good at this level.


SUNDAY 5th October:

LONGCHAMP TIPS

It is my contention that unless you have a strong opinion, it is no good approaching a meeting like this concentrating on the obvious. There are easier ways of backing 5/2 winners than attempting it here!

1.15: The first of five Group 1s on a star-studded day by any standards. We have to assume not everything will go to plan today, particularly with the likelihood of rain. Marchand D’ Or and Fleeting Spirit are the two form horses here but there are obvious question marks. Although a winner over five, this does not seem to be the ideal trip for Marchand D’ Or. On the other hand, this race seems tailor-made for Fleeting Spirit, but her well-documented interruption is a worry. The less talented but equally less complicated pair: National Colour and Equiano (would not want if soft but not right in the Nunthorpe) are seen as viable alternatives. You have to climb off the fence in races like this and I don’t think Bordlerlescott will win.

1.50: Again may be the real deal but her form does not exactly scream at you. She had Sugar Free (well beaten at Newmarket on Friday) behind her last time and looks short enough. Elusive Wave has proved herself in today’s conditions (would not any deterioration in the ground though) and along with Copperbeech looks the best of the home team. We are dealing with fillies and with no real solid form lines, a turn up is possible here.

2.25: Mastercraftsman looks the real two-year-old deal. Given time, I feel stable mate Rip Van Winkle may turn out to be the better but, taking the Prix Morny won by Bushranger as representing the best two-year-old form, Mastercraftsman, who beat him at the Curragh, ought to win the Criterium. Stamina and ground is not a problem and he does look bombproof on all known form. Milanais may prove best of he home team but they ought to be playing for places.

3.00: On a day likely to be dominated by fillies, we come to the Prix de l’ Opera. Back Lush Lashes if you wish, but she makes no appeal at the price. The ground may be against her and she comes here on the back of a long hard season. I am taking a chance with top juvenile, Proviso who looked to have lost her way in the early part of the year. However, a gradual restoration of her form has been signposted and she is a good filly on her day. It should not be forgotten she was favourite when runner-up in last year’s Fillies Mile at Ascot, a race in which many felt she was unlucky. l know the stable jockey choses Treat Gently in preference but she lacks a killer turn of foot and I believe it is entirley possible he has made a mistake.

3.40: So we come to one of the great showpieces of the year. Apart from dismissing Youmzain, I have little to add. We all know Zarkava has looked brilliant but having a bet here is not compulsory. For a three-year-old filly to win this means she has to be exceptional. Zarkava is exceptional but, taking on beefy colts for the first time, with the possiblity existing that she may forfeit ground at the start and that rain may turn the surface against her, she cannot be a bet. I wish her well. This is not a race to guess in inless you are backing a double-figure priced horse and I cannot see a suitable candidate. For me it is perm any one of the first four in he betting, in which case I may as well be in Las Vegas!

Bon Chance and Viva Le France!!


FRIDAY 3rd Oct

NEWMARKET tIPS

The ground is crucial today. Rain is forecast for the east of the country which could well embrace Newmarket. Running through he card…

1.00: Evasive the one to beat but faces some likely unraced types and his third at Kempton, although promising, needs improving upon.

1.30: Snoqualmie Girl the form horse. Beat colts at Salisbury and one of them, On Your Way, ran well enough in the Royal Lodge to make her the filly to shoot at. Not too many dangers. Ave looks the most obvious improver.

2.05: A drop of rain may improve the chances of Bankable but he has won on this sort of surface and his main adversary, Eagle Mountain, may find this a bit sharp.

2.40: A tough race to solve. Serious Attitude is fancied and the ground will sut. Pursuit Of Glory has to be respected as does Sugar Free who has mixed it with colts. By Oasis Dream, she has run on firm but may prefer a drop of juice.

3.10: Bushranger represents the top colts’ formline at present. By Danetime and winner of the Morny on soft, as it stands this ground could find him out. HUNTDOWN was enormously impressive at Newbury two weeks ago. By Elusive Quality [same sire as Raven’s Pass] he will be all the better on the current ground. This is a big step up for him but he has impressed from day one and looks a top class contender. In the absence of rain he is worth backing. But obviously we have to wait until race time. There is nothing between Prolific, Gallagher and Sayif on the book. It would appear they are playing for places.

4.20: If he can put his tumble at Chester behind him, Speed Gifted has the necessary form.


THURSDAY 2nd October:

NEWMARKET TIPS

2.00: Alhaque finished an excellent second to North East Corner at the last meeting and should win this maiden. It will take a well above average newcomer to beat him but that looks sure to be reflected in the price.

3.45: This is the day when we discover if the highly promising Wingwalker can realise his potential. Not a betting proposition at the price but he should be up to the task. North East Corner [form on show in the opener but may have been advantaged by his draw on a day when high numbers held the call] and Control Zone are intersting contenders but need to raise their respective games.

GOODWOOD TIPS

2.10: HISTORY LESSON is my idea of the best best of the day. This looks an average contest and his second to Control Zone (form that has been franked) looks better than Noverre To Go’s second to subsequently beaten Diddums.


WEDNESDAY 1st October:

Plenty of racing today but only one serious candidate for me and we have to wait until the 8.50 at KEMPTON, where FALCATIV looks a good thing. This is a horse we picked up on two runs ago when he finished a tenderly-handled fifth at Doncaster behind Sortita. Apprentice-ridden that day and again at Sandown last time when having his first run in a handicap, he gets the services of Dane O’Neill tonight. Rated only 73, a reproduction of his last run should be good enough in this company; but it seems reasonable to assume he is capable of bettering it. That is the good news. I fear the bad will be the price. Anything bigger than 6/4 looks a bonus to me.

Those looking for a couple of more speculative wagers should take a peep at our sister service, PENNIES TO POUNDS, but those with a nervous disposition should look away…

September Archive – Tips from Spy

BUSH TELEGRAPH

SEPTEMBER


Sometimes I think they see us coming on a Saturday:

2.45: I am taking a chance  with Dark Humour here. He has form with See The Sea and Indian Ocean in Ireland, which is Group form and he is one of only few that has form at that sort of level. Big price and worth a second look in a race that seems full of horses with only snatches of form.

NEWMARKET TIPS

3.15: As claimed by Barry Dennis, DARJINA has been unlucky this year but she has done nothing but try her heart out at the highest level all season. She has her chance today and with the Bismarck against her, will be a backable price. Halfway To Heaven looks the danger but this is a drop in grade for Darjina whose efforts in Dubai, at Ascot, in Hong Kong, last time on ground softer than ideal, all adds up to a filly that will take all the beating.

3.50: Mia’s Boy may have a few pounds too many but has been trained for this and has always been highly thought of.

5.00: Golden Desert ran extremely well behind Furnace last week and a reproduction of that means he is the one to beat.

KEMPTON TIP

2.35: Totally Focussed is overdue a win, runs this track well, has the draw and is a taken as a sporting selection

LONGCHAMP TIPS

The start of one of the best two day fixtures in the international calendar. The big guns roll out tomorrow but this is no supporting card:

2.45: Centennial can get the Brits off to flying start.

2.20: AFRICAN ROSE is a wonderful filly who is adaptable as regards trip. She has a terrific turn of foot that she seems able to produce over six or seven furlongs and although it threatens be close between her and Paco Boy, she gets the nod. A filly in top form is  always hard to beat. This looks between the two and although I have the greatest of respect for Paco Boy and will not begrudge his success, I feel the filly may have the edge on speed. A fascinating clash.

2.55: Again, difficult to see beyond two: Yeats and Kasbah Bliss, although Le Miracle did win this event last year (beating a below par Yeats). Kasbah Bliss was a revelation in the Gladateur but that was over two miles. Despite his record over long distances over hurdles, it is no foregone conclusion he will stay this marathon trip of two-and-a-half – a specialist’s trip. We know the further he goes the better he gets so there are no worries on that score with Yeats. The fact he flopped here last year is the only negative. Probably a race to sit out.

3.30: The 5lbs penalty may anchor Sageburg. Famous Name’s overall form is not quite as good as it looks. He was run down by Vision d’ Etat last time, although the winnig margin did not reflect that. It is another tight three-cornered contest but I am taking last year’s winner, SPIRITO DEL VENTO to come out on top.

4.00: The Bogberry beat Famous Name last time so Famous name’s performance half an hour earlier will provide a pointer.

TUESDAY 30th September:

WARWICK TIPS

Peter Chapple-Hyam looks the man to follow here. Bombina, who contests the 2.10, attracted serious money in the Newmarket maiden won by Midday. She refused to load but one has to assume she had been showing plenty at home; there fore she ought to be watched closely today. Nora Mae’s debut at Newbury was in no more than an all right race.

2.40: Baariq was a hard-ridden second to the useful-looking Nehaam at Newmarket. He should be good enough.

3.10: Furious Belle completes a trio of likely winners for Peter. It is unlikely she is about to bump into anything other than ordinary opposition in this, in which case her second to Magaling looks good enough.

SOUTHWELL TIP

4.20: Canadian Danehill’s record here combined with his draw gives him every chance. The opposition is potentially better than that he normally encounters though so he cannot be anything other than a horse guaranteed to run well. The likes of Kay Two and Green Park, although unproven here, have to be feared.


MONDAY 29th September:

Those of us switching on the racing channel today should gear ourselves up for a barrage of advertisements. We will be asked to buy stairlifts, increase our insurance, pursue that claim in the courts. And not just once but probably a hundred times. Surely we are all word perfect in these adverts now, although I haven’t quite got to grips with the Jacamo one yet. This is a precursor to stating all of today’s action is on the, ‘Let’s take a quick break’ channel, otherwise known as ATR. They have some good presenters, Matt Chapman in particular, but it is likely to be a long day!

One suggestion: Lady Rusty 4.30 Windsor. She did well to beat Equinne at Goodwood, looking as if this step up in trip would suit. From a mark of 75, she could be good enough today.

On the same card, if you are contemplating the obvious form choice, Agente Parmigiano in the 4.00, bear in mind he is racing over further than he has gone before or is bred to go. He also has a dubious draw to overcome.

Blessing does look a banker in the 5.00 but will be priced accordingly


SUNDAY 28th September

ASCOT TIPS

2.05: Hatton Flight may have a few pounds to find at the weighs but, after a break and a good run last time, over a track he has won on, he looks likely to play a major part. Question marks hang over several of his opponents; most certainly it is hard to see what morning favourtie, Kensington Oval, has achieved to warrant a mark of 92.

2.40: Sixties Icon seems to have been presented with a straightforward task and looks different class.

3.15: The vibes for Sir Gerry suggest he is poised to return to his best form, in which case he would go close. But backing horses with chequered records that start favourite is not the brightest move.

3.50: LIBERATION appears to have been leniently treated by the handicapper. After a promising third to Anmar at Sandown (form that is working out well in this grade) he won nicely at Brighton, beating a subsequent winner. The overiding impression left that day was that plenty of improvement could be forthcoming and this entry in a nursery looks a smart one. He can beat some less-generously treated rivals.

CURRAGH TIPS

2.55: SOUL CITY is crying out ot be backed in this. His form in France suggests he is a vastly improved colt and it would be no surprise to see him end the season as one of the top juveniles in the Richard Hannon camp. His beating of Jukebox Jury was obviously franked yesterday in the Royal Lodge and it will be disappointing if he doesn’t win today. Only bad luck in running is seen as the likely cause of defeat.   .


SATURDAY 27th September

ASCOT TIPS

2.30: Cityscape has been installed as favourite for the Group 2 Royal Lodge after an impressive win at Salisbury. The form from that race does not up to Group standard and the impression Cityscape gave was that he is a galloper rather than a quickener. With his galloping companion being well beaten at Newbury last week, it may pay to look elsewhere. Orizaba should be favourite in my view but if, as I believe, Soul City is a decent two-year-old based on his form in France, then Jukebox Jury, who has finished close behind him twice, may be the value in what looks a sub-standard Group 2.

3.05: Only the foolhardy would oppose Rainbow View here. Plenty of form lines lead her way and she looks a potential star. It is worth bearing in mind though that Fantasia is considered as a top class filly and, although today may not be her day, expect her to put up a fight.

3.40: In a race full of plenty of the usual suspects it may pay to look elsewhere for the winner. Mastership does appear to have turned a corner since changing yards and I tend to agree with the in-form Tom Segal (didn’t he look awesome in that film where he played the ship’s cook) inasmuch as the lightly raced Furnace, spotted here three runs ago, did particularly well to win last time from a bad draw at Chester and may be capable of further improvement.

4.15: This a cracking contest. it looks a three-cornered struggle. My only observation is that it is always that little bit harder to return from a bad run than it is to move forward from a good one. I know the ground scuppered Henrythenavigator last time but he has been on the go since May. He may be vulnerable to Tamayuz and Raven’s Pass.   Haydock’s ground was enough to put anyone off yesterday and nothing appeals at Chester. Well done to Great Leighs for an excellent card that picks up steam as it goes along. Most of us will be otherwise engaged on a Saturday night when it peaks, but Poster looks interesting in 7.50.


FRIDAY 26th September:

HAYDOCK TIPS

3.45:  I can pass on a good word for EQUINAME who was caught in the shadow of the post at Goodwood last time. A mark of 71 in his first venture in a nursery looks reasonable and he should go close. The only reservation is the ground. Equine’s best form has been with give and being a Namid it is reasonable to assume he will not want it firm. Providing it rides decent he is the one to beat.

4.55: I like the chance of SILVER RIME who ran well at Sandown earlier this month after an eight week break. Form with Perks, Scuffle and Duntulum suggests he may be too good for some thoroughly exposed performers.

WOLVERHAMPTON TIPS

7.20: Standpoint will be all the rage here. But when backing horses at short prices they need to tick all the boxes. He steamed into contention at Kempton in a conditions race on his debut before dropping away, but has a terrible action which would appear to be more suited to a bog. He may win but not a bet for me.

ASCOT may be harder than it looks and is covered in PENNIES TO POUNDS.


WEDNESDAY 24th September:

Message for ROMAN GLORY 2.00 Goodwood

Also see ‘And Another Thing’ for the latest!


TUESDAY 23rd September:

BEVERLEY TIP

2.30: This looks to rest between Hoh Mike and Oldjoesaid. This stiff five should suit Hoh Mike but his overall record does suggest he can be opposed. OLDJOESAID did not enjoy the run of the race at Doncaster in the Portland but still ran well. This is his chance and at the likely odds he is the sole suggestion on the day.


MONDAY 22nd September

LEICESTER TIPS

2.20: My Sweet Georgia may appreciate the step back in trip and better ground and is accorded a fair chance in the nursery. Although her second to Gallagher flatters her, it was still a creditable run and her last two efforts suggest a win is round the corner. Ought to be in the shake up.

3.20: There was nothing wrong with Rasaman’s latest effort at Doncaster (form franked Saturday) and he can go one better today.

KEMPTON TIPS

3.00: Ave put in a pleasing first appearance behind the strongly fancied Intense at Salisbury. Her stable debutants usually make plenty of improvement after their first runs and with the draw on her side, Ave looks poised to collect.

5.30: Olympic City and Walking Talking both took the eye on their last runs and it could be unfortunate they take each other on in this. Walking Talking was returniing from over an year’s absence when third at Doncaster, but that may not have been the strongest of contests and there is always a chance of him bouncing. On the other hand, Olympic City flashed home over this track three weeks ago closing late on decent opposition. This extra two furlongs looks likely to suit and he is given the nod, although both are attractively priced and a saver on Walking Talking is advised (without upping the overall stake on the race).


SATURDAY 20th September

NEWBURY TIPS

2.05: In an open race, I like the claims of Tishtar.

2.35: Gallagher does have the best form here but his propensity to get beat is something of a concern for a short-priced favourite. Damien is a serious threat.

3.10: Ask The Butler and Rose Street set the standard here. Both are progressive at the right time of the year.

3.45: Look Busy was unquestionably unlucky last week and looks overpriced. That does not make her win though. Loch Verdi should not be dismissed lightly and it would be no surprise to see Wi Dud run a big race now he is dropped in grade.

4.55: Yaddree is a consistent no-nonsense contender against some largely unproven characters.

AYR TIPS

2.20: Danehill Destiny gets another chance over six furlongs which would appear to be her best trip after all.

4.40: We know Perks acts extremely well in the conditions but he faces stronger opponents than last time, in particular Bushman, and needs to up his game to win. Not impossible by any means but his price is not particularly appealing.   So a day of ideas only.


FRIDAY 19th September:

NEWBURY TIPS

2.10: The form of Royal Vintage in Dubai this year with stable mate Honour Devil makes him the one to beat. He faces a decent field but it is hard to envisage any of them having reached that level of form had they been in Dubai over the winter.

NEWMARKET TIPS

3.05: There are a lot of unknown quantities on this all-two-year-old-card meaning for the time being it may be best to play it safe and stick to established form. Absent Pleasure has clear claims in this nursery and should be hard to beat.

WOLVERHAMPTON TIP

8.20: For those still in the game, Girl Of Pangaea, a slightly unlucky loser last time, should make amends tonight.


THURSDAY 18th September:

A day when several short-priced and obvious selctions could be made. But they make little appeal from a betting point of view and this looks like a day to swerve or at least one deserving a low profile.

One tentative selection at a price is Prince Valerina in the 3.30 Pontefract. A former Classic possible and a Newmarket winner in the autumn at two (beating Shevchenko), she has plumetted to a rating of 71 and changed stables. Her last run hinted at a possible revival in form and with a good draw in her favour she is seen as worth a minimal interest on a day that could easily suck money from the pocket quicker than a city dealer in a bar.


WEDNESDAY 17th September:

BEVERLEY TIP

2.35: No prizes here, but for those doing multiple bets, Kingship Spirit is expected to win.

KEMPTON TIP

6.20: Kouloura ran well enough when second to Midnight Cruiser on her debut to make her a solid favourite in this evening’s opener, particularly from her good draw.

SANDOWN TIPS

2.20: No message, but Eagles Call looks a fair form suggestion here from a mark of 73, considering he finished third to Light The Fire on his first run. Not disgraced since, he is from a yard hopefully poised to turnaround its fortunes.

3.30: Wingwalker’s credentials going into this have been lauded and clearly he will take the beating. However, he is a short price and, mysteriously, the stable jockey is at Yarmouth.

4.05: It will take something special to prevent either Four Winds or RA Junior from winning this. RA Junior has apparently made plenty improvement since his debut but the same remark ought to apply to Four Winds, who finished third to a stable companion of RA Junior’s at Newmarket. A race to watch.

YARMOUTH TIPS

2.10: Bouvardia has her chance here but takes on a decent first-timer in Tiger Eye who is expected to be in the shake up.

2.45: Glass Harmonium has made plenty of progress since his debut behind Anmar (form later represented by RA Junior at Sandown).


TUESDAY 16th September:

 

YARMOUTH TIP

2.10: Gang Show is the interesting runner here. The worry is that he has been off the track for 200 days. But if sharp enough, from a gambling yard, he has the form to win this.

2.40: DEFECTOR is the bet today. Racing from a mark of 75, he appears to have been let in lightly on the back of a progressive profile so far. His latest effort at Newmarket was eyecatching and he looks worth an investment today over an extra furlong, which should suit. This race is his to lose.

3.10: Pride Of India would be another guess of sorts at the time of writing. Once held in some regard, on the assumption his last run after an absence would have been needed, he gets his chance today to open his account. Either that or he should prepare for eight flights and the mud of December.

LINGFILED TIP

3.50: Cool Art may be the answer to this.


MONDAY 15th September:

MUSSELBURGH TIPS

3.50: Wind Star takes a drop in grade here to contest this claimer. His run over 1m 6f last time can be discounted and he is better judged on his fifth at Newmarket to Ask The Butler when Tazeez was third. That may have flattered him to a degree and he is obviously in a claimer as a horse who is an infrequent winner. But in this grade he can win if the mood takes him.

4.20: Mythical Blue and Lucky Art are the obvious ones here but any market interest in C&D winner Go Nani Go [already beaten Lucky Art on worse terms] should be noted. Quick type who would go close if tuned up after three month absence.

LEICESTER TIP

Little makes appeal here but Jennie Jerome in the 5.00 looks on the upgrade and must have every chance of following up on latest win at Yarmouth. Totem Flower is making a meal of winning but this drop in trip looks likely to suit and she looks the one for the forecast.


SUNDAY 14th September:

With the likes of Mastercraftsman, Zarkava and Vision D’ Etat in action today internationally it is certainly interesting. However betting opportunities look thin on the ground.

Kyle may be the answer to the 2.25 at Great Leighs but Lucayos (drawn badly) and Geoffdaw are seen as serious dangers so it is difficult to become involved.

The Essex track stages a fine card but nominating winners is far from easy. Confront is an interesting contender in the 5.10. By Nayef, bearing in mind his sire’s record, this one-time Guineas fancy has always appealed as an autumn type.

Outside the obvious in Bankable, little appeals at Goodwood.


SATURDAY 13th September:

DONCASTER TIPS

1.35: Reports of Zacinto’s supposed excellence look to be exaggerated. He looked very fit at Sandown where he beat a poor field.

2.35: Despite market weakness this morning, there is plenty of confidence behind Frozen Fire.

5.25: Although their form is chequered at present, Godolphin’s spirits could be lifted somewhat by Gold Sovereign in this handicap.

CHESTER TIP

3.30: With her liking for this course and the draw to help her, Look Busy seems to have an ideal opportunity to add to what has been a fine second season

GOODWOOD TIP

4.30: There is a strong word for Contretemps in this.

To be honest there is little there that is likely to life-changing. I have passed on what I know and think on what looks like a very hard day. Those horses that can be fancied are very short.


FRIDAY 12th September:

DONCASTER TIPS

1.35: Back to her optimum trip of five furlongs, DANEHILL DESTINY can return to winning ways here. Having beaten Prolififc at Windsor (on disadvantageous terms considering she is a filly) that form equates – on a line through Gallagher – with chief market rival, Lord Shanakill. I expect her to roar back to her best today and have too much pace for her rivals.

2.05: Cool Judgement has a fair chance on the back of a decent enough run last time.

3.15: Norfolk Broads looks potentially well in.

4.25: Messages for Kite Wood – who took the eye first time- and for Threestepstoheaven. With the inclusion of Espiritu and Golden Sword this looks a tough race to solve.

SANDOWN TIPS

2.15: Cawdor had his form boosted yesterday through Damien and looks the one to beat.

3.25: Silver Rime if fit after an absence would be the call.   Essentially the one bet today is Danehill Destiny.


THURSDAY 11th September:

DONCASTER TIPS

1.30: MIDNIGHT CRUISER represents the solid form of Wingwalker. Already a winner having finished third to that colt at Newmarket, he looks ready for a step up in grade. Being by Captain Rio, easy ground should not be a problem.

2.00: This looks between Allegretto and Gravitation although Gravitation may find the ground too soft. Allegretto has a history of peaking at this time of year. For that reason she is given the call over her progressive rival.

2.35: These sales races often make betting appeal as, despite the numbers, invariably they only really concern five or six serious contenders. With what looks like a good draw and sitting nicely in the field with a middle-weight, AWINNERSGAME looks the part.

3.45: Royal Confidence should be included in any perms in a tough race.

4.20: Little makes appeal here. Wasan is unlikely to stay, the same remark applies to Boldenka, particularly on this ground. Feared In Flight is unreliable, Drill Sergeant has plenty of weight, so any clue here should be taken seriously.


WEDNESDAY 10th September: 

DONCASTER TIPS

3.10: Bonnie Charlie has the best credentials. He is priced accordingly but is hard to oppose.

KEMPTON TIPS

6.50: SAYYAAF turned in a perfectly respectable debut against a couple of well-fancied opponents at Sandown on his debut and should be good enough to open his account with that run behind him. Whatever the long-term merits of those having their first runs, they have to reach a decent standard to beat him here.


 TUESDAY  9th September:

LINGFIELD TIP

Is only for the brave. Definightly, My Sweet Georgia and Purple Sage all have chances but reasons why they may leave a burning hole in punters’ pockets are itemised in this morning’s And Another Thing.

The same applies to Collateral Damage at Beverley.


MONDAY 8th September:

FOLKESTONE TIPS

heavy ground tempers confidence but…

2.50: Mishrif is the form horse after a fifth to Wingwalker – form that is working out particularly well. However, he comes from a stable struggling to find form and a better value alternative may be BAGBER, who has run on soft and was slightly unlucky last time at Newbury. He may have a few pounds to find on the favourite but should be placed at worst.

5.20: The same stable, that of Harry Dunlop, fields a strong hand here with Air Chief and Dr Brass. A strict interpretation of their form when they last clashed at Haydock gives Air Chief the beating of his stablemate but Dr Brass has better overall form, acts on soft and could be the answer to a tricky finale.

BATH TIP

2.40: The message from Lambourn is for River Captain. By Captain Rio, he should have no problem with the ground. This looks a weak race. This is a message I am merely passing on without any opinion being expressed one way or another.


SUNDAY 7th September:

A great day’s racing in prospect today but from a betting point of view it is less inviting with one possible exception:

LEOPARDSTOWN TIPS

2.10: No prizes and no kudos for suggesting Famous Name should win, but taking odds-on in such conditions is only a step away from the open gas oven.   2.40: Once again Mr Jim Bolger seems to have conveniently overlooked the going description. It is SOFT Jim – (but not as we know it) –  and Lush Lashes is by Galileo and likes it on top. If you are right and I am wrong Mr Bolger I shall be the first to eat humble pie, but this is a Group 1 run on unsuitable ground for your filly. Don’t do it! Halfway To Heaven will beat you and everybody will say her Nassau success as no fluke after all!

3.50: A great race on paper but one that could turn into a mess on ground that is likely to be barely raceable.

LONGCHAMP TIPS

2.50: MILANAIS is worth taking a chance with. He made up a lot of ground from an uncompromising position in the Group 1 Prix Morny over six, giving every indication an extra furlong would suit. He has that this afternoon and faces a drop in grade. Inexplicably installed as the outsider of the party at 10/1 in the Racing Post betting, he is nominated as today’s bet.

3.20: Another great race for the Group 1 Prix du Moulin. My advice, just sit back and enjoy!


SATURDAY 6th Sepetember

KEMPTON TIPS

2.20: ELNAWIN is likely to be a short price but has the form to win this having beaten Bonnie Charlie last time.

2.50: The most interesting horse of the day is MOURILYAN who had a fine spell at the highest level in Dubai during the winter. His eighth to Jay Peg last time, over an inadequate trip, puts him within a couple of lengths of Darjina, a genuine Group 1 filly. Form in Ireland also makes him a very interesting prospect against horses that are of Group 3 quality and no more. Mourilyan has the potential to be at least as good as Many Volumes and Galactic Star and looks worth a bet at an overpriced price of 12/1.


FRIDAY 5th September:

KEMPTON TIPS

7.20: The run of ADORN at Newmarket, looks better than that of the filly Stylish Dream over the same course and, under similar conditions, in a two second slower time. ADORN is seen as the best prospect of the day.

9.20: Ascot Lime is reportedly strongly fancied. Up 7lbs for a narrow win last time, he will need to improve again (not out of the question) but on the face of it appears to have his work cut out.

LINGFIELD TIPS

2.20: Beraimi looks the one to beat.

3.50: Diriculous has been found another soft opportunity, although his trainer’s misgivings about the run possibly coming too soon should be heeded.

CATTERICK TIPS

5.00: Benhego was withdrawn on account of the ground earlier in the week. If the forecast is only partially right, something approaching a monsoon is likely for the Yorkshire area, so surely Behego’s chance is similarly compromised today.


THURSDAY 4th September:

WARWICK TIPS

2.50: This looks a winnable contest with not many serious candidates. Lucayos would have been the pick here but the ground has turned against him and for that reason, with ground likely to suit and what could turn out to be an advantageous draw, RABBIT FIGHTER gets the call.

3.25: Squad is expected to improve on his debut run but faces several unknown quantities.

SALISBURY TIPS

2.10: BOUVARDIA ought to open her account here. Her second to Snoqualmie Girl needs no endorsement.

2.40: CITYSCAPE ran a race full of promise first time. Being by Selkirk the easy ground will suit and he is taken to beat Such Optimism.

3.45: There is plenty of confidence behind INTENSE who is expected to improve on her promising run at Goodwood. The race seems to concern her and Multiplication, who showed similar promise when only just behind Midday at Newmarket. That was probably a better race than the one Intense finished second in but apparently Intense has improved a great deal since.

5.20: Taking the form of the stable into account and the fact that Regal Flush has failed to convince in any of his attempts this year, backing him at a short price in this seems unwise.

REDCAR TIP

3.35: GOODBYE seems best when fresh, with give in the ground and at this time of year. For that reason she is seen as a sporting alternative to Borasco.


WEDNESDAY 3rd September:

Some days are hardly worth the trouble! Today seems one of those to be frank. As a prospective punter, you could rack your brains all morning and still look a fool by the end of the day.   For what it’s worth, FROGNAL is expected to win KEMPTON’S 8.20. He will be short and backing horses like him means you will lose in the long run as not enough of them win. This one should but will not be carrying my money.   Everyone keeps telling me Mama Mia is terrific…


TUESDAY 2nd September:

Tricky day – herewith a few observations and ideas only:

GOODWOOD TIPS

2.35: Equinine is reportedly fancied. She has something to find – which if course is not impossible. I prefer the claims of Bella Rowena, whose fourth over this track last time looks a solid run. High Heeled, who was behind her, won yesterday; another also-ran from that race, Midday, ran well enough at Newmarket. That looks the best form on offer.

3.45: Royal Vintage looks the best of these on form. Runs in Dubai with stablemate Honour Devil suggests, as long as he handles the ground, he has the potential to beat under-achiever Welsh Emperor.

4.20: Molville is making a meal of losing his maiden tag. Duncan looks a fair favourite and should handle the ground but is no value from a stable struggling to produce winners. By Alhaarth, Molville, who has mixed it at a higher level, will cope with the ground and may provide value.   4.55: Rum Jungle looks a solid favourite here although course winner, Titan Triumph, is always capable of surprising.

SOUTHWELL

4.40: Crying Aloud, a course winner and a fine imposing filly, returns to a course that clearly suits as her breeding suggests it should. Any market move should be heeded.   It is not compulsory to bet every day and at the moment, today does not look to present the best of opportunities.


MONDAY 1st September:

Some very tricky handicaps today.

KEMPTON TIPS

4.00: FEN SPIRIT, whose form ties in with stablemate Rainbow View, showed enough when fourth to Snoqualmie Girl to look good enough to win this. Her experience should prove vital agains a couple of well-entered newcomers, whilst Simple Solution’s debut run looks a little way behind that of Fen Spirit.

4.30: HIGH HEELED another to finish behnd Rainbow View and just in front of the useful Midday at Goodwood, has her chance here.

5.30: MESHRI is a stable fancy here and appears to have every chance. The well-thought of Checklow has a bit to prove.

LINGFIELD TIP

3.40: IMAAM disappointed his yard when a narrow loser at Newbury last time. But the horse to beat him, Patricians Glory, went on to run a stormer in the Group 3 Solario on Saturday, whilst the third from Newbury also boosted the form when third in better company. Imaam has an obvious chance today which he should make the most of.

August Archive – Tips from Spy


BUSH TELEGRAPH

AUGUST


 SATURDAY 30th August:

CHESTER TIP

2.50: RED GALA appears to be the forgotten horse in this. Fast ground plays to his strengths and he is an autumn horse. His proximity to Macarthur over this course – when he did not get the best of runs – gives him a similar chance to Speed Gifted. He is a class act on his day and looks value.


FRIDAY 29th August:

SANDOWN TIP

2.10: Not the strongest nursery to solve. A strong message for AAKEF may be the answer despite a low draw. Mythical Blue is a danger. He looks a sprinter pure and simple so the two runs over seven can be dismissed. Returned to his wininng trip of five, he has the draw but his young rider will need to exploit it or run the risk of ending up with nowhere to go. Aakef is the call. 3.55: SUMMERS TARGET has improved since his debut at Ascot and it will take a smart one to beat him. Of the unraced contingent, December is reported as being very useful and could represent the biggest danger.

SALISBURY  TIPS

6.05: ON YOUR WAY is another said to have made giant strides since his last run. Derbaas [beat Summer Target at Ascot so we will get a clue to that form] finished fourth to a Listed winner in France in Soul City at Newmarket and does represent the best form in the race. He is the one to beat.

6.40: STAR ROCKER ran a promising third on his only attempt to date and has been found an ideal opportunity in this maiden. Special Reserve travels but does not finish and Wellington Square may be more effective with some give in the ground. Star Rocker is open to improvement, fancied by his stable and looks poised to win.


THURSDAY 28th August:

GREAT LEIGHS  TIPS

4.00: DIRICULOUS  was given a lot to do last time and although closing late, was never going to get to the leaders. All his wins have been on the artificial surface and with a valuable 5lbs lobbed off due to his capable claiming rider, he has a clear chance to get back on the winning trail.

LINGFIELD  TIPS

2.50: BALLORA  has won off a higher mark than she runs from today. Her third at Salsibury last time reads well in the context of this poor race. Her stable are positive about her chances.

5.20: Legal Eagle is something of a stab in the dark as he has not run since June and has the worst draw. These are the sort of ingredients normally enough to deter any sensible backer. But his form [with the exception of his last run] is so superior to today’s opponents, he may be worth taking a chance with.

AYR TIPS

4.40: Following Amicus Meus has proved costly after two defeats at Newmarket. Today’s extra furlong may help but it could be his window of opportunity is starting to close.


TUESDAY 26th August

RIPON TIPS

3.15 The lightly-raced ROSE STREET gets her opportunity today. Re-routed from a more competitive but abandoned event at York, this imposing filly who has plenty of size, looks all set for a successful autumn and her trainer’s patience should pay dividends. She blew up last time at Yarmouth and will strip fitter today. Ladbrokes obviously fancy her chances as they have installed her at an unrealistic 6/4 in their morning odds. Even the Post go 15/8 and it seems reasonable Rose Street will drift.

GREAT LEIGHS  TIPS

3.30: Whilst Ladbrokes have been swingeing with the price of Rose Street, they seem to have titled their prices in the other direction with CITY STABLE who is available at 5/1 this morning. His last run at Catterick is nothing out of the ordinary but was his first for three months and he is entitled to better it. Earlier form with Enroller, Downhiller, Yaddree and All The Aces means that from a mark of 77, he comes into this with serious claims. Morning favourite, Natural Action, was only second to Swords last time and looks opposable. Certainly his price of 5/2 looks too short against stronger opposition today.


MONDAY 25th August

There are times when prudence is required. With the ground so soft at today’s surviving venues, already uninspriirng cards look proverbial damp squibs as far as betting is concerned. Safest bet appears to be Kempton, where at least the ground can be relied upon.

KEMPTON TIPS

2.45: Blow Hole has shown promise on his three runs to date. Last time he showed promise behind a stablemate over this track and, although far from original, he looks of potential interest.

3.55: It may pay to side with Mastership with his proven track record on this surface and with a favourable draw.

4.30: MANY VOLUMES is reported to be in great shape and is the one to beat. Looks like the best prospect of the day.

5.40: Pritti Fabulous does not look unfairly treated from her mark of 76 after a a couple of promising recent runs. Most notably her second to Admiral Dundas – a fair performer at his best – gives her a real chance with again the draw in her favour.

In fairness this is not a good day from a betting perspective and stakes should be kept to a minimum


SUNDAY 24th August

YARMOUTH TIP

2.20: MAGALING’s fourth at Goodwood reads well, especially in the light of Frognal’s third at Newmarket on Friday. This looks like a two-horser and he is taken to be too smart for Donativum.

GOODWOOD  TIP

2.45: TEMPLE OF THEBES looks progressive and may prove the answer to this.

DEAUVILLE TIPS

2.15: The Group 1 Prix Morny, bringing together French and British juvenile contenders which as a consequence is a tricky puzzle. There is a positve word for Gallagher but it is hard to be confident.

3.45: COASTAL PATH ought to win this having lost an unbeaten record when failing to stay the extreme trip of the Ascot Gold Cup. he has plenty of pace and it is entirely possible he may be considered for the Arc if impressive today. Ex-French Royal And Regal is a serious opponent and there is a real chance he may be overpriced. he is seen as the only realistic danger to Coastal Path.


SATURDAY 23rd August

NEWMARKET TIPS

Newmarket seems to offer the best betitng opportunities today but there are no easy pickings.

12.50: INVINCIBLE HEART’s form when fourth to Wingwalker was franked twice yesterday and he has to be the one to beat.   2.00: Stevie Thunder looks the form horse.   2.35: Sericus is the subject of a positive message. Running from a plater’s mark, he ought to be in the mix.

3.05: Strike The Deal would have been the pick here but the low draw is off-putting. The winners yesterday all came from high numbers and in a race as competitve as this, it is hard to think he will be able to get across.

4.10: It is hard to get over-enthusiastic about Defector but he is highly thought and carries stable confidence. He is in a race that will not take too much winning but you do have to ignore his last run to give him a chance.   Elsewhere plenty of interest but that does not constitute bets.


FRIDAY 22nd August

 

An unexpectedly great day’s racing but punters should be warned that, although rich in content, it may turn out to be poor in terms of betting returns. We shall see; but some caution is called for.

 

NEWMARKET TIPS

12.25: Purple Sage ran a race full of promise behind Snoqualmie Girl, who had finished third to Rainbow View. This will give some indication of the worth of the form. Purple Sage shaped like a stayer and with several promising newcomers in opposition, it is hard to make her a confident call.

12.55: The same applies to Midday, another who shaped with promise first time. Well-regarded she has to run the gauntlet of several likely-looking types having their first runs.

2.05: Lush Lashes may be opposable here. In Passage of Time and Michita, she meets two fillies for whom conditions may turn out to be ideal, whereas Lush Lashes may be more effective over ten furlongs. Rain is forecast in East Anglia but at present, newmarket is basking in sunshine making conditions in the Irish filly’s favour. Stamina may make her at her most vulnerable up the hill. A tricky one and I am not sure I have a definite answer.

3.40: DELEGATOR may be strongly fancied but it is worth pointing out that Jamie Spencer foregoes the ride in the ‘Ebor’ on Milne Graden [a horse he has been jocked up on all week] to fly to Newmarket and partner Four Winds in this for Michael Bell.

NEWBURY TIPS

1.45: This looks between Art Connoisseur and Marine Boy. Both are fancied; preference is for Marine Boy.

3.25: Young Mick may roll back the clock in what is clearly a hard handicap.

At present it looks like a case of treading with caution. We should be in a position to provide an update later.


THURSDAY 21st August

 

GREAT LEIGHS TIP

2.40: Encouraging words have been received for ETHAARA.

CHESTER TIP

6.10: FIRST AVENUE has not always impressed with his attitude but Chester often suits such horses. He does carry stable confidence and is given one last chance.


WEDNESDAY 20th August

On a quiet day, in the 6.55 at Folkestone, PORTODORA is the only message received. She looks to have every chance in a winnable event.


TUESDAY 19th August

Horrendous conditions have forced the abandonment of York where apparently it is still lashing with rain as I write.

We are left with a dead day. We have to assume that Night Lily, who had finished fourth to Rainbow View on her debut and then third to Snoqualmie Girl which is the same formline, ought to be good enough to win at Brighton. She runs in the 2.00. If nothing else she will give a pointer to supporters of Rainbow View for next year’s 1,000 Guineas. It is slightly disconcerting that she has been sent to Brighton to break her maiden but she promises to provide a spark of interest on an anticlimactic day.

It has to be assumed that, with a more favourable weather forecast, prospects for York tomorrow are brighter. In which case it is likely that today’s three Group races will be shuffled to the remaining days of he meeting.


MONDAY 18th August

 

They are likely to be running in a slop at Windsor with the ground already soft in places and more rain forecast.

LINGFIELD TIP

2.30: MEYDAN DUBAI takes a drop in grade after trying his luck in handicaps. Good runs behind Red Somerset and Cape Hawk mean he would win this weak maiden if able to reproduce such efforts.This ought to be his day.

WOLVERHAMPTON TIPS

2.45: HELPMERONDA is likely to attract support and is reportedly fancied.

3.15: SWORDS caugt a tartar last time in the Irish-trained Master At Arms. From the same mark he has every chance of going one better.


SATURDAY 16th August

 

Punters are advised to be patient today until seeing the state of the ground. Rain is likely at some stage at Newbury, something that could turn the best laid plans upside down.

NEWMARKET TIPS

1.50: GREENSWARD is spoken of as being in the same league as Gallagher. That being the case he will be hard to beat. However, with several unknowns in the contest, it may be better to delay backing it until more about the race is known.

4.40: This race looks average at best. ROCHEFORT is as good as a winner without a penalty and ought to win. No excuses if he does not.

NEWBURY TIPS

2.10: WHISPERING ANGEL is fancied to win. Maybe the ground will be against Jazz Police and possibly Cry For Freedom, but with two attractively-bred newcomers making the line-up, he makes limited appeal at the price.

2.40: The front two in the betting here, Sixties Icon and Donegal look opposable. (I am more inclined to back against favourites than lay them but each to his own.) Sixties Icon has a well-documented history. Donegal’s second to Conduit flatters him to a degree as Hebridiean was close up in third. More interesting contenders are Eastern Anthem and Peppertree Lane. The ground may tip the balance in Peppertree Lane’s favour, although there may not be much to choose between them.

3.15: PACO BOY has his ground at the time of writing and, more importantly the trip – he is a seven furlong specialist. His price is probably about right but he has to be the pick. Richard Hughes reported the ground at Goodwood was plenty quick enough. Only if it become soft would events conspire against a most progressive and likeable sort, whose only defeat this year was in the French Guineas


FRIDAY 14th August

NEWBURY TIPS

1.50: This event seems to concern the bottom two in the handicap. The consistent Manyriverstocross is assisted by the 5lbs concession from his young pilot, David Probert. As an exposed animal such a weight reduction will help. Ryan Moore may prove the main stumbling block on Woolfall Treasure, who looks the sort to benefit from this step up in trip and is therefore a big danger.

2.20: Opposing Shyrl seems folly. Nobody gets rich backing odds-on shots but, whatever the merits of her second in a dubious Queen Mary, her close third at Windsor on her debut is good enough and represents the best form by a long way in this.

3.30: PARTY FROCK seems to be the best message for what looks an average maiden.

NEWMARKET TIP

6.00: Amicus Meus was an unfortunate loser last week at this track, only going down in the last strides having been drawn on the wrong side of the course. From the same mark compensation awaits and the morning price of 5/1 with Ladbrokes looks destined to be quickly rubbed off.   Other than that, plenty of maidens today for which messages may surface later. .


WEDNESDAY August 13th

SANDOWN TIPS

6.35: TOO TALL looks to have been presented with an open goal after a good debut effort. The Post price of 7/4 looks generous.

 

8.10: MURCAR is fancied in a tricky looking contest. Any investment should be kept to a minimum.

SALISBURY TIPS

2.30: HELIODOR has his chance to finally get off the mark here in a race that should only concern him and Outofoil.

3.35: STALKING SHADOW will need to display better behaviour to win this than she did at Thirsk last time when mullish at the stalls and then failing to run straight in the race.

4.05: BASQUE BEAUTY could be anything. Being by Nayef, it could be autumn will prove her time of year. Now that the Chapple-Hyam stable appear to be returning to form, Cape Amber, a one time Oaks fancy, takes a massive class drop and it would be a mistake to dismiss her chances or to take her form since York at face value.

BEVERLEY TIP

2.10: COSMIC SUN should appreciate the trip and ground and has his chance here. The draw should make little difference in the opening race but be warned that if the ground turns soft, it is not unheard of for low numbers to be preferred on a track where high numbers invariably enjoy a marked advantage


TUESDAY August 12th

 

Today has all the makings of being quiet. Little makes appeal although TASHEBA looks to have a clear-cut chance in the 6.55 Nottingham. His defeat of Askar Tau [twice a winner since] suggests he should be too good for modest opposition. His chance is reflected in the price however.

There are one or two possibilities elsewhere and it is a case of waiting to see what may or may not surface.

There is an encouraging word for WEST LEAKE 7.25 NOTTINGHAM. With the Hills stable staging something of a belated rivival, a small interest is advised.


MONDAY August 11th

WOLVERHAMPTON TIPS

3.30: ROCKET ROB may have scrambled home in a seller last time but was a confident stable pick to win and the fact they bought him in and that he runs off a plater’s mark [62] suggests he is capable of winning a poor nursery like this.

4.30: SWORDS returns to a trip he has won off, seems in top form and looks to tick all the boxes.

WINDSOR TIPS

6.50: This seems to be between Rum Jungle and Brave Hawk. Narrow preference is for Rum Jungle.

 

7.20: DIRICULOUS has the size to negate a weight hike and against tepid opposition may not be a good thing but is certainly the one they have to beat.


SUNDAY August 10th

WINDSOR TIP

3.30: HOUSE OF LORDS has apparently been working very well at Newmarket and with his fourth to Yaddree having been boosted, looks like he may be the one to beat here.

DEAUVILLE TIPS

3.15: The Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest features the return of July Cup winner Marchand D’or. At the start of the season, it appeared we had a strong hand of sprinters but one by one they seem to have fallen by the wayside. Marchand D’or looks a worthy favourite but his price looks plenty short enough. There is little between him and the enigmatic US Ranger who, despite one or two issues, looks the sort to pull off a race like this before long. On this soft ground, Utmost Respect cannot be disregarded whilst Jumbajukiba and Balthazaar’s Gift are players in a race that is not a foregone conclusion. Win or lose, Marchand D’or’s price looks too short.

Half an hour earlier, Anna Pavlova returns to her own sex after her failure at Newmarket. She does have a penalty to carry and only if it is a case of last woman standing would she be the selection. Turfrose has the best overall form but there has to be a stamina doubt whilst Mrs Lindsay and Believe Me should cope with conditions and probably represent the pick of the home team. .


SATURDAY August 9th

Update

Good message has been received for PERFECT STAR 4.05 Ascot. This course and distance winner ran a promising race last time and she looks a value bet and, arguably the best betting prospect of the day.

HAYDOCK TIP

2.35: MULTIDIMENSIONAL is expected open his account for the season in what is his easiest task this year. It has to be said he would be a good thing on his Ascot second to Macarthur but that some of his other runs would make one think twice.

LINGFIELD TIP

6.10: STIRLING CASTLE will be more effective over this trip and carries stable confidence.

NEWMARKET TIPS

3.15 RAINBOW VIEW was impressive on her debut and is expected to follow up.

4.55: TIME CONTROL made a strongly fancied Monbrettia pull out all the stops last time and unless she bumps into a smart newcomer must be the one they have to beat here.


FRIDAY August 8th

LINGFIELD TIP

3.40: MASAMAH has recently been working with older horses and showing plenty of pace. He has loads of ability but the fact he veered from a true course last time is slightly disconcerting. If on his best behaviour can win, but not one to be over-confident about.

NEWMARKET TIPS

7.50: MEYDAN CITY looks interesting in this but confidence is tempered somewhat by Godolphin’s constant recent reversals.

8.20: AMICUS MEUS is reported to be fancied for this. He is not easy to assess but his trainer knows the time of day and this son of Danehill Dancer – who should be okay on the easier ground – did beat a subsequent winner last time. Only has to defy a mark of 71 to win and should go close.


 

TTHURSDAY August 7th

Just two horses so far on the day.

SANDOWN TIP

6.50: ON OUR WAY is a confident stable pick.

HAYDOCK TIP

4.10: WOODCUTTER is fancied to supplement his recent Newmarket success in this much more competitve handicap. However, his profile is one of an improver and he will relish the trip and the ground should be no problem. There has to be a trip doubt about Allied Powers.


WEDNESDAY August 6th

Merely a few ideas on an otherwise drab day:

NEWCASTLE TIP

2.20: QUATERMAIN only rated 80 in this nursery, is reckoned by his connections to be ahead of the handicapper and that being the case, and assuming his draw will not be a hinderance, he is a tentative suggestion.

 

PONTEFRACT TIP

3.10: No pizes for originality here but, although only a narrow winner last time, THUMBS UP is said to be better than the formbook indicates.

BRIGHTON TIP

3.30: BAINISTEOIR looks something of a straw-clutcher. Apparently he failed to face the blinkers last time and should be a big-price (probably deservedly) in this.

KEMPTON TIP

6.20: SHOW WINNER has been presented with a good chance of winning under a capable apprentice in a pretty poor contest.


SUNDAY August 3rd

NEWBURY TIPS

2.10: MARINE BOY is the subject of very positive reports in advance of his debut. The stable have had notable success with their juveniles this season and his chance has to be taken seriously. The one proviso could be the ground. Being by One Cool Cat, he is unlikely to want it on the soft side so anyone contemplating backing this colt would be advised to wait until they see how the surface is riding. Plenty of rain fell at Newbury yesterday and, judging by current grey skies, it looks as if more could arrive today.

3.15: GULL WING finished an excellent second to Yellowstone last time with subsequent winner Eastern Anthem in third. On her favoured easy ground and back against her own sex, that should be good enough.

3.50: LOCHSTAR has reportedly been working very well in preparation for today. From a yard in sparkling form, he must have every chance to confirm the promise he showed last year.

4.20: Lightly raced MISS ROCHESTER carries stable confidence in an average event and excuses will surely be thin on the ground if she fails to justify such confidence this afternoon.

DEAUVILLE TIP

2.15: NATAGORA will be hard to beat in the Group One. She left the impression on 1,000 Guineas Day that there was something left in the locker and her third in the French Derby confirmed she is a filly right out of the top drawer. Darjina must be considered as a doubtful runner on soft ground, whilst Nahoodh, although considered by many as unlucky at Newmarket, does not look as if she is quite in Natagora’s class. A bigger threat may be provided by Goldikova.


SATURDAY August 2nd

 

GOODWOOD TIP

4.25: There seems to be plenty of confidence behind HOLYROOD who shaped with plenty of promise first time out.