Horse Racing Results for May 2009..
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 30th
HAYDOCK RACING RESULTS
And a new name on the block in the Listed race in the shape of Ialysos – a seven-times winner on sand in Greece – now with Luca Cumani. Lunging late under a dashing ride by William Buick, he settled it close home in a finish of necks. Those involved were recent York winner Anglezarke and a revitalised Hoh Hoh Hoh, who continues to acquit himself well at this level. Clearly, conditions with juice suited the winner. Peace Offering carried a four-pound penalty to finish fourth ahead of Reverence – who ran his best race for some time in fifth. Royal Rock never landed a blow. A comfortable six-furlong winner last time, this quick five did not suit. If anything, he looks as if a step up to seven rather than a step down to five is required. Dandy Man and Captain Gerrard both sported first-time headgear. Neither ran with any great promise. Captain Gerrard has not had his conditions yet this year, but he was quick to back off today even so.
Suzi’s Decision was always moving threateningly and was soon in command when shaken up in the Listed Race. This was her first run of the season and judging by her performance there is more to come. As a race, it did lack depth. Les Fazzani was second ahead of Cassique Lady. Montbretia showed little, checking out tamely down the straight. Her stable seemed to think this trip would suit, which was reasonable. She is a Montjeu and it is not the first time she has failed to deliver. Gravitation showed even less, finishing last.
JOHN OF GAUNT STAKES (Group 3): This may not have been a strong Group 3 but Main Aim won it like a good horse. Impressive at Newbury last time on an easy surface when he picked up plenty of ground, he was always handy today before hitting the front and gradually drawing away, proving conclusively he stays seven furlongs. He may even get a mile but one step at a time…He is improving fast and looks booked for better. Beacon Lodge was second ahead of the useful Arabian Gleam and Asset who never got competitive. Atlantic Sport, who ran so well in the Lockinge, was again on the premises in fifth. His trainer’s policy of running his horses at every opportunity brings only limited success. Atlantic Sport has ability but seems best fresh. Tariq, who lacks scope, seems to have been off the boil for a while now.
The Class 5 maiden won by Strike Shot did not look very good. Goodbye Earl in second should pick up a race. This was her fourth attempt. Of the rest, only Take Ten is worth mentioning at this stage. An expensive purchase with a limited pedigree, he was favourite but could only manage fifth. He may do better in time.
SANDY LANE (Listed Race): Danehill Destiny was winning for the first time since June but it was hard work. This filly lost her way after the Queen Mary, although there have been flashes since. Today’s depleted field presented a real chance that she took. Doncaster Rover was a persistent threat in second ahead of Damien and the disappointing Sayef. Awinnersgame saw plenty of daylight on the outside, which may have accounted in part for a poor run.
It is hard to know what to make of the Class 2 handicap won by Hits Only Vic. Bollin Felix is knocking on the door and the drying ground probably went against him. Tilt ran his usual honest race in third with interesting contenders, Wild Rhubarb and Amerigo, sixth and seventh. Wild Rhubarb did not get a clear shot at the leaders due to scrimmaging but it is stretching it to say she was unlucky.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS
High Standing has plenty of pace, which he put to good use in the Class 2 handicap. Racing from a mark of 91, the opposition possibly made him look better than he is.
ON THE HOUSE STAKES (Listed): Inched out in the Winter Derby over ten furlongs by Scintillo with Bronze Cannon third, it was in the book for those that wished (or had time) to see it. Back to his optimum of a mile, Premio Loco wriggled through a narrow gap to snatch this under a terrific ride by George Baker. Pure Poetry, the only three-year-old in the line-up, gave another lift to this year’s 2,000 Guineas form after Mastercraftsman’s win in Ireland last week. Seventh at Newmarket and narrowly beaten here, Pure Poetry is improving with racing. This was a good effort from a three-year-old. Yamal has stepped up on his handicap win at York and is another based on that and his form in Dubai that is on the upgrade. This was an odd race where they finished in a heap, only three lengths covering the field. Unnefer was unsuited by this reduction in trip and dropped away to finish last. As for Perfect Stride, a drifter beforehand – someone knew something despite a positive stable message. His cause was not helped by a waiting ride in a race of this type, but it is not the first time Perfect Stride’s homework has not be replicated on the track.
In the Class 4 maiden, Rakaan gave a very solid pointer to the promise shown by Canford Cliffs at Newbury. Beaten seven lengths that day, Rakaan had been working well since, looking as if he has come on considerably since. It could be argued that although beaten, Rakaan should have won as Spencer gave the impression he took things easy. Rakaan went two clear a furlong out having moved in the slipstream of the leaders. The late finish of debutant Fremont won the day. State Fair was a solid third with a green and slow-starting Marine Spirit definitely worth a mention. This good-looking field should produce winners.
Riggins made hard work of winning the Class 3 handicap. It was plain to see he obtained no run last time, but he also hinted that he does not act in too much of a hurry. He confirmed that here, as he had no traffic problems to impede him but took an age to pass course specialist Mujood. He freewheeled the last few yards but will have to do much better to fulfil the loftier ambitions that are in the pipeline. For the second time on this track, Cape Hawk shaped as if about to hit form.
YORK RACING RESULTS
The Class 3 Conditions stakes featured a close tussle between the first four, victory going to Regal Parade from the in-form Dandy Nicholls stable. Second to Asset in a weak Listed contest at Leicester last time, he held on as Mia’s Boy gradually reeled him in. For Mia’s Boy it was a case of the ground being too firm and the trip too short. He really needs a mile on ground tilting on the quick side. Court Masterpiece, a former Group 1 winner at Goodwood when with Ed Dunlop, returned to action after over two years at stud with a first class effort in third. Tombi was fourth ahead of Taqdeyr who pulled too hard. Marine Boy again gave little encouragement.
The record shows Friston Forest copes with fast ground but he did not seem at home on it in the Listed Race won by veteran Caracciola. All credit to the twelve-year-old winner who is made of granite, but Friston Forest was rolling on the ground and although battling back could not quite make it.
The Class 2 sprint resulted in a win for Ishetoo who had finished third in the event last year. Peak District was headed close home with respectable efforts turned in by River Falcon, Hamish McGonagall and Internationaldebut. Hitchins, out his depth in a Group 2 last time, shouldered top weight with credit. His current mark of 105 makes life tough but there should be a handicap for him somewhere along the line. He is better over six making this run all the more noteworthy. Such was the power of Pricewise that Siren’s Gift was sent off 5/2 favourite. After a fair first effort of the season, she never really got competitive and this has to be described as a disappointing run.
Sweet Sonnet defied gravity to win the Class 4 maiden for fillies. Sloppy out of the gates and in what looked like a hopeless position a furlong or so out, she responded to Ted Durcan’s urgings to pip Falling Angel, who was clear and looked an assured winner, right on the line.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS
Alrasm, an attractive colt by Acclamation, seemed anchored by the soft ground at Newbury but skimmed off the surface to win the Class 5 maiden as he liked. Big Audio had finished fourth to Goodwood Maestro at Goodwood in a race that looked merely average. Second here, he was no match to the impressive winner who may not have beaten much but could not have done so in much better style.
Jack Dawkins returned to form to win the Class 3 Handicap in a tight finish with Hevelius. With five non-runners, the race was robbed of a good deal of interest.
It would appear that Akhenaten – by High Chaparral – is a sprinter. Once again, he put up a good show to follow Proclaim home in the Class 2 Classified Stakes. He needs to be dropped a few pounds and is in danger of becoming a victim of his own consistency. With Saucy Brown and Five Star Junior next to finish this looked a strong contest.
Falcativ’s run of success was halted in the Class 2 handicap. Perhaps a rating of 93 was too much. He did not help his cause by taking a tug and in a race that had a sprint finish look to it and was swept aside. Dansili Dancer, at his best on this sort of flat track, came home strongly on his favoured fast surface to settle the issue in a few telling strides. Meethaaq recovered his equilibrium after looking outpaced to take second with Drill Sergeant third.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS
Mooteeah received a fine ride from Tagh O’Shea to win the maiden in the shadow of the post. This Sakhee filly only beat Morning Sir Alan but she may make some improvement. Feature of this was the appalling show put up by Calypso Bay. The track was blamed at Chester; this time there was no excuse. He threw his head in the air, looking as enthusiastic as a Labour Party Member. One to avoid.
NEWBURY RACING RESULTS
The maiden auction won by Bahati from Silver Symphony and Andina did not inspire.
A well backed Murcar won the Class 5 handicap on a night by and large cobbled together to accommodate an evening concert.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 29th:
RACING RESULTS:
There was plenty of racing but in truth little to relate so I am lumping it together.
Xtension maintained the current run of the Clive Cox yard when making a favourable impression in the Class 5 auction at Goodwood. He is by Xaar, not everyone’s favourite sire, but only had to be shaken up to win.
Global recorded a rapid hat-trick under a double penalty in the Class 5 handicap.
Shakespearean impressed on his debut at Haydock. He has been earmarked for Ascot.
Broad Cairn won his maiden in workmanlike fashion.
Devotion To Duty finally broke his duck in his maiden, accounting for Sanctuary. He still has some way to go before he justifies his home reputation and his overall appearance.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MAY 28th:
YARMOUTH RACING RESULTS:
Niran, a Newmarket winner from Shark Man on debut, was the warm order to follow up in the Class 5 novice. He won all right but Brisbane might have taken him to the wire had he not missed the break. He stayed on steadily without being knocked about. This represents improvement on his fourth at Newbury and he is worth keeping an eye on. The average King Of Axum was third. Excellent Guest was close enough in fourth to suggest a race awaits.
It is hard to know what to make of the Class 5 maiden, won by a horse beaten twenty-one lengths in a bumper at Ludlow. Lowther, a four-year-old, scored at 100/1. Big Bay, behind Militarist and Harbinger in a division of the Wood Ditton, appears to be walking backwards to Christmas. Beaten at Kempton next time and now by a yak, perhaps something will come to light after he has bolted up in a handicap at 20/1 two runs from now. Nothing else seems worth a mention.
Certainly on two-year-old form, Espiritu lined up for the second division of the Class 5 maiden with the best form. Having finished behind Kite Wood and Cityscape, before failing to handle the firm at the Craven meeting, he had every chance here. A strong traveller, it may be he wants further than a mile as he was staying on without delivering what he promised. Class Is Class notched another winner for the Stoute stable with Turning Top in third. Mutawarath and Sabi Star completed the five principals. This was better than the heat won by Lowther, that is about all one can say at this stage.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Hallstatt scraped home from Pyrus Time in the Class 5 maiden. This was not a bad introduction; despite the telephone numbers by the name of Pyrus Time, he has bumped into some decent types. Being by Halling, the winner is likely to improve with racing.
Silaah had every chance in the Class 4 handicap but once again failed to deliver. Narrowly beaten, he may well think he has won; the formbook will reveal otherwise. Gold Express was a fast-finishing third in a tight three-cornered contest.
Lochstar seems to be following the family tradition in that he is improving with age. Out of Lochsong, he utilised his speed to burn his opponents off from the start of the Class 4 handicap. Drawn wide, he crossed over to the rail and had the field in trouble from the turn. He will need to raise his game from a revised mark despite an easy win. Those he beat – Peak District, Fromsong and The Jobber – have limited ability.
Godolphin appear to have purchased another dud in Birbone. Just who is buying these animals? Bits of fair French form made him no more than a potential top end handicapper. His third to Virtual and Lady Deauville was deceptive. In a Class 3 Conditions Stakes, he made the running but was all over the place on straightening up. Gifted with a run on the inner, Wasan took it to record a clear-cut victory. Fairmile recovered from a sluggish start to finish second ahead of Alarazi with Zaham running another lifeless race in fourth. Wasan is likely to be Royal Ascot bound.
After a slow early pace they stacked up like planes waiting to land at nearby Gatwick in the Class 4 Handicap. Six of them flashed by the post; Jim Crowley deserves a plaudit or two for wriggling up the inside to produce Dalradian to win. Dancourt, Royal Executioner, My Kingdom, Lastroarofthetiger and Hail Promenader were all in a heap. With little improvement from any the protagonists required to win next time, the two unexposed sorts, Dancourt and Lastroarofthetiger could be the duo most likely to win a handicap in the near future.
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
CLASS 4 HANDICAP: A course winner a year ago, Mountain Pride, came back to form from a lb lower mark to win the opener on a cracking card. Dr Livingstone was second, although he had looked the likely winner with two to race. A mixture of firmish ground and a nine-month absence may have contrived to bring about his downfall as he failed to find what seemed likely. Nevertheless, he stayed on. Kensington Oval is another that looked ill at ease on the ground, which he does hit hard. However, after taking his maiden at this track, this is the third time he has attracted money in a handicap without winning. He travels well but his demeanour hints he may not always find what he promises. Baylini was fourth, emphasising that as a contest there were no surprise packages hidden away here.
NATIONAL STAKES (Listed Race): As one would except this was a high class event – one of the best for juveniles we have seen so far this term – resulting in the unbeaten Monsieur Chevalier extending his record to four. A big strong colt, described as a laid-back sort by his trainer, Monsieur Chevalier won this as he has done his three preceding contests. Niggled at halfway in behind a fast pace, he picked up with over a furlong to race to win cosily in the end. He has to be considered one of the best two-year-olds we have seen so far and will go to Royal Ascot with a fine chance of rattling up the five-timer. On this evidence, he may have outgrown five furlongs already, but a very different type awaits should he try his luck in the Coventry. Star Rover has done nothing but improve since an unconvincing win at Kempton back in March. Out of the stalls and blitzing, he is very quick but had no answer to the winner’s final kick. Epsom may suit him; despite not being robust, he is standing his racing well. Raine’s Cross had impressed at Bath and his form had worked out, but he faced much stiffer opposition today. Outpaced early, he did well to snatch third. He remains a serious horse and is already crying out for six furlongs. Fourth-placed Soccer was the yardstick for the winner – he was beaten further than when they last met at Newmarket. Fratellino helped force the pace with Star Rover but was not good enough to live with him. It was not High Spice’s night, meaning it would be wise to ignore this run. Jinking left at the start then impeded in running and switched, her jockey allowed her to coast the last furlong when all hope had gone. She has performed better than the formbook indicates and looks a decent filly. She wants this sort of ground.
HENRY II STAKES (Group 2): Resulting in a strange outcome to a strange race. The strongly fancied Patkai floats over the ground. Confidently ridden in fifth place from a fast pace, he moved into contention as the leaders – Tungsten Strike, Fiulin and Viper – felt the strain and wilted by degrees. Eased to the front over two out, the first warning sign came when Patkai dived to his right once in front. Still seemingly holding his field at bay after a sudden injection of pace, suddenly things began to look dicey as Geordieland ranged alongside and then went past. Patkai looked awkward and found little. Although the winner hung across him, Patkai finished with his head at an angle, looking far from happy. It is tempting to think something may come to light, as it looks as if the Patkai we know was not the Patkai we saw. Tastahil tried his best in third but was not up to this task over two miles on ground this lively. Fuilin ought to be capable of better. He got very warm in the prelims and ran too freely. He is not up to Cup class but can win races if he calms down.
BRIGADIER GERARD STAKES (Group 3): The feature race of the night and one that did not disappoint. A last stride victory ensued for import Cima De Triomphe, winner of last year’s Italian Derby. He is a powerful grey son of Galileo that was brought with a perfectly timed challenge by the excellent Christophe Lemaire to cut down a valiant Conduit in the last strides. Saddled with a 7lbs penalty and looking well if not match-fit, the St Leger and Breeders’ Cup winner can never be dismissed. Nowhere near as big as the winner, but a very well put together son of Dalakhani, Conduit went down by a gallant whisker. He is possibly the best St Leger winner we have seen in many a season and will be a force to be reckoned with at any trip this season. Presumably, the next port of call will be the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth although he has the pace for the Eclipse. With Tartan Bearer in the same stable and ownership, Sir Michael Stoute has a strong hand in the middle-distance races this summer. Stotsfold did not enjoy the best of runs in third, but this was still a personal best. He would not have beaten the first two even if the waves had parted. Beaten three lengths in last year’s Eclipse, he has run up to that form. Drumfire was a surprising fourth but he was merely running on without having had to engage in battle. For a horse that might have been killed in that terrible fall at Goodwood two years ago, this was a good effort. Pipedreamer does not stay ten furlongs. He laid down what looked like a strong challenge over a furlong out, but it fizzled to little on the climb to the line. Staying On, beaten narrowly by Doctor Freemantle at Chester, was a close up sixth having made the running. This was a top class renewal of this fine race.
HERON STAKES (Listed Race): On a night full of future clues, here we had a clash between three highly promising three-year-olds in Bridge Of Gold, Border Patrol and Racketeer. It was the last-named, winner of the Esher Cup in a fast time – mostly of his own making once he cleared away – that attracted the money. Exposed in this much stronger company, he was never able to slip his field and finished fifth. This was not a race for the faint-hearted as it developed into a war between five of the six runners. Carrying a five-pound penalty, Border Patrol continues to impress. The one time he had conditions in his favour, he hosed up at Newbury, but since then he has won over six furlongs at the Berkshire track, and now given weight and a beating to decent rivals. Beginning a run down the straight, he battled into the lead and stuck on strongly as Ashram staged the last threat. By Selkirk, this ground must have been borderline for the winner who is Group class. He has the ability to win a big race before the end of the season and he is the sort punters ignore at their peril. Mention ought to be made of Roger Charlton who has broken all the rules with this colt and so far pulled such a strategy off. The inference is he may have an idea he is handling a very good horse. Ashram came back to the sort of form we saw on occasion last year. Again, he was penalised but this is as good as he is. His stable companion, Spring Of Fame, was delivered wide to snatch third. This effort confirms he probably failed to stay ten furlongs at Newmarket. An argument therefore can be advanced that his third that day to Your Old Pal and Palavicini, which is solid, was bettered tonight. Bridge Of Gold was exposed as no more than decent in fourth. The run of Racketeer, whose form was not strong, illustrates the danger of relying on time.
WHITSUN CUP HANDICAP (Class 3): This looked a strong handicap in terms of content but not in quality. It seemed possible to discard half the field, but that left several promising types. Under a canny ride from Philip Robinson, a fancied Dunno made all and kept finding as the cavalry closed. This is Dunno’s third win at this track. Axiom appears to have improved for a change of stable. Formerly trained by Ed Dunlop when he was a tricky horse to call, Luca Cumani seems to have conjured the best out of him. Kavachi was an out-of-the-blue third ahead of Proponent – about whom the jury is out – and Wintercast who did not get the breaks when needed. He can be marked up on this and should find a handicap from this mark. Last at one stage, Cadre made up plenty of ground on the wide outside, running to form (using Tartan Gigha as a guide) with Wintercast. The latter can be regarded as a length better than his run.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 27th:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Lemon N Sugar started her racing life in a Glorious Goodwood maiden but progress has been slow since. She was winning her third contest in the Class 5 handicap from a mark of 68, but won it with plenty to spare, quickening from a slow pace to sweep past the field with one telling run. By Lemon Drop Kind, it is no surprise Fibresand and Polytrack suits. A most attractive filly, she has inherited plenty of strength and depth from her sire.
Soul Heaven won his maiden, staying on strongly throughout the last furlong from Cool Valentine and Any Day. This was an ordinary contest, but the winner is improving and there should be a race for the runner-up.
Aromatic was skittish beforehand and loaded with a blanket. A winner in decent style at Salisbury last time, she was well ridden but found plenty to win the Class 4 handicap. Eastern Aria was the pick on looks and saw her race out on this more suitable surface, having been lost in the soft at Newbury last time. Qurinia ran a pleasing race on her reappearance after nine months to finish third. It appeared she blew up. For a midweek all-weather fillies’ handicap attracting only six runners, this did not look a bad event.
The Class 3 Conditions Stakes was the feature of the day and attracted a good field. Strike The Deal deserved his success after having tried hard in better company. Not over-big, a willing sort that travels strongly, he came off the bend to pick up his rivals. A runner in last year’s 2,000 Guineas and before that a runner in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, the right grade and trip appears to have found for this son of Van Nistlerooy. He may be capable of defying a rise in class. Tamagin was second. The trip looked too sharp for the Godolphin-trained Mutheeb, which was predictable after having outbattled Mia’s Boy last time over seven. The track was no help to the zippy Valery Borzov who went off in traditional rapid fashion before swinging wide in the straight. He has won on round tracks, but with so much early pace, a straight course is preferable. Eisteddfod’s stall opened prematurely, saving him the bother of actually having to race. The rest were outclassed.
Celestial Dream, bred to race at three furlongs – being by Oasis Dream out of Lochangel – left three moderate runs behind to win the Class 5 handicap.
Mount Hadley narrowly failed to land a gamble at Ascot last time but had a lot on his side that day. He had the favoured stand rail for a start. He was also running from a handy mark considering his record as a two and three-year-old. In the end he was caught by the exposed Trafalgar Bay. Although there was little between him and the winner Last Three Minutes on Ascot running, Mount Hadley faded in the Class 4 handicap today quickly having made the pace. Last Three Minutes closed late to catch Elisiario with Salient third.
BEVERLEY RACING RESULTS:
HILARY NEEDLER TROPHY (Listed): There were mixed messages for Don’t Tell Mary but she won easily, beating what was probably a sub standard field for this event but wining with authority. She was not best placed two out but once the turbo kicked in she asserted. This was a major step up from Bath and the Queen Mary is on the agenda. The Hermitage only won a median auction last time and is another to have apparently improved. From a bad low draw of three, she was nearest at the finish but lacked the winner’s turn of foot. Leleyf left a poor run in the soft at York behind her to finish third. Angelina Ballerina, with the draw in her favour and a track likely to suit, stayed on strongly in the manner of a filly likely to be suited by a return to six furlongs. She should win next time.
Two dominated in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Noble Storm bounced out and made all over five, a trip over this stiff track that posed no problem. He stays six and rattles off firm ground. Waffle, the runner-up, lacks the substance of the winner and is better with some cut on the ground. On this evidence, six will also be to his benefit. For a horse that has only a Leicester maiden to his name, a mark of 108 looks stiff.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 26th:
Apparently the two-year-old maiden at LEICESTER contained two above average fillies making their debuts. Lady Of The Desert won despite flopping out of the stalls, beating a well-regarded Tomintoul Singer. These two were not exactly clear of average opposition but both are expected to improve considerably over the coming weeks. There is even talk of the winner running in the Queen Mary.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 25th:
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
Queen’s Hawk and Toga Tiger, both behind Raine’s Cross at Bath, had the finish of the Class 5 maiden to themselves. Queen’s Hawk has made the greater improvement as she overturned a five-length deficit. Super Duplex, fourth to Soccer and Shark Man at Lingfield, made it a clean sweep for those with experience. Master Of Dance, behind Little Perisher at Ascot, was fourth. Of those having their first experiences, Joe Packet finished best in fifth; Hold Your Colour shaped with a deal of promise in sixth having travelled strongly until the last two furlongs.
The Listed event went to course winner Tranquil Tiger, who, as a tricky conveyance, was given a fine ride by Tom Queally. In second place until dashed clear four out, Tranquil Tiger soon had the field at full stretch, just lasting as a strong finishing Halicarnassus ran out of time. With a 3lbs penalty, Charlie Farnsbarns was a creditable third ahead of another course specialist Illustrious Blue and Once More Dubai. Not for the first time, the excellent Richard Hannon yard got their trip wrong – this time with Ordnance Row. He does not see out this ten furlongs and, although a winner on lively ground, is better with some give. Pinpoint was a big drifter and ran accordingly. Made To Ransom was expected to acquit himself well but, having set the race up for Tranquil Tiger, dropped away tamely in the straight, finishing as if something was amiss.
Reach For The Sky could not have started her career in better fashion when winning the Class 5 maiden. The overall impression was this was no more than an average contest but the winner did display a turn of foot. Those she beat, in the shape of Pullyourfingerout and Just The Tonic, have some improving to do. Timelord is not progressing and is costing his followers dear.
Based on his beating of Jesse James over this track and a third to Crown Choice, Eastern Empire was a well-handicapped horse from a mark of 82. Backers of horses trained by John Hills take a chance; those taking this one were rewarded as he won the Class 4 handicap with something to spare. Perfectly positioned by Frankie Dettori, he struck for home a furlong out and was soon in command. Star Links was in action here earlier in the week when fourth to Forte Dei Marmi and turned in another sound effort in second. Laudatory added a clean edge to the race in third. Yellow Printer was a promising fourth ahead of Hypnotist, another with reliable claims at this level. This form was sound.
At REDCAR the main event was the Class 2 Zetland Gold Cup, resulting in another handicap win for the Stoute team. Kingdom Of Fife had been unlucky at Chester but with a 5lbs hike hardly looked chucked in. The stable message was to the contrary and as usual they called it right. Making all, he kept pulling out enough as the pack staged various challenges. By Kingmambo, fast ground was fine but he is clearly improving on this his second attempt of the season. The stable are hitting full stride just now and need to be respected at all levels. Nanton ran through beaten opponents to grab second ahead of Re Barolo. Military Power, fit from Dubai, broke the current dismal trend set by Godolphin in fourth. Mystery Star was an honest fifth against company that was a few pounds too good. King Charles continues to finish on the periphery, whilst it is possible we will see Heron Bay win something in the near future. Checklow cannot be entertained after this. Wandering about and hanging in behind horses, this gelded son of Street Cry looks the part, has the ability, but there is stops.
Perfect Silence may be worth another chance after travelling well for most of the way in the Class 4 at LEICESTER before tiring. This was her first attempt of the year and many of her inmates have improved for the run.
Palacefield responded to a hard ride to beat Luc Jordan and Park Lane in the Class 5 maiden at CHEPSTOW. This is the second time he has run better than is apparent as last time he was left in front too long. This time he had plenty of work to do to get to the front and he may end up reasonably handicapped.
Star of the show was Dhushan, who had run with so much promise at Newbury when plainly in need of the run. Still not fully tuned, this most attractive son of Rainbow Quest made all and only had to be shaken up to win smoothly. He really is a monster of a looker and he can surely go on from here. He is all class. Gibb River once again ran like a horse that will progress with racing, but was no match for the winner.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 24th:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
The Richard Hannon team know what they are doing with two-years-old this year as they have a strong armoury. Therefore, money for the unraced Angel’s Pursuit – a half-brother to Dark Angel – proved relevant in the Class 4. Although feeling the ground and changing legs, the rising ground steadied Angel’s Pursuit and he was able to win a shade cosily. It is almost becoming a clique, but he will improve when the ground eases. He looks a nice colt. The cards are not falling for Mijas Playas who keeps bumping into one too good. She stayed on without having much chance of troubling the winner. Only small, she looks a typical early juvenile. Mijas Playa’s time in maidens at this level of track is running out. She should be capable of picking up a race or two when the handicap season starts.
In the Class 2 handicap, solid form triumphed over those that had shown promise in their maidens. Doctor Crane had finished fourth in a hot heat at Sandown won by Aqwaal from Polly’s Mark and Anitnori. All three have won since and Doctor Crane completed the quartet when successfully carrying top weight. Hyades appeared to have the race in safekeeping when hitting the front, but Doctor Crane produced a determined and decisive burst. Third-placed Mutamaashi may not be short of speed judging by his two runs at a mile but he looks short on stamina, as this trip of ten furlongs was apparently instrumental in his downfall. He will presumably return to a mile next time. Takaatuf ran as if reaching his plateau in fourth; promising Windsor winner Namibian Orator was disappointing in last place.
Jimmy Styles has often been talked of as a potential Listed animal. He went some way to justifying that when winning the Class 2 handicap from a mark of 96. After a troubled career, he came back following an injury to finish second at Ascot two weeks ago and went one better today. His Achilles heel may be that he is best on fast ground, which obviously will place a strain on any physical weakness. But today he looked a fair horse. Everymanforhimself was an in-form runner-up, ahead of Orpenminded and Thebes – all decent if somewhat exposed sprinters. The feature here was the weakness on the exchanges of Striking Spirit. A ticking time bomb would have made more appeal. He had beaten Jimmy Styles last time so was entitled to feature in the mix. He finished a long-looking last with the jockey giving the obligatory downward glances. This did not look good.
After his odds-on defeat in the Class 4 maiden, Euston Square should not be written off. This ground was too firm and he refused to let himself down when asked to stretch. There will be other days and his handicap mark of 86 should be adjusted in a downward direction after this. To be honest he has run to mark in the mid-seventies here but there will be no such drastic reaction from handicapper. Adoring produced a steady run to catch Pumpkin, with a toiling Euston Square in third.
CURRAGH RACING RESULTS:
Casual Conquest came back to his best form to lift the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup in style. Perhaps the ground was too firm for him when beaten by Bronze Cannon in the Group 2 Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket. He never looked happy that day but we know he stays and such a performance was below that shown here. In winning by over five lengths, with the very useful Famous Name in second, he appears back on course for a tilt at the Prix de L’arc de Triomphe, something his astute trainer has earmarked all along.
IRISH 1,000 GUINEAS:
The English equivalent of this took several knocks but these fillies were faced with very testing conditions. Again, a top two-year-old from last year, returned to action to grind down her opposition in gutsy fashion. All heart but not typical in stature of her sire, Danehill Dancer, she fought tooth and nail to get to Fred Darling winner, Lahaleeb, who had run poorly at Newmarket. Oh Goodness Me had form that entitled her to figure in the French equivalent but she ran no sort of race at Longchamp. Back on song on home soil, form with Mad About You and Mourayan meant her finishing position of third was not unreasonable. By Galileo, she will stay further. Rare Ransom and Chintz were not obvious protagonists but we are dealing with fillies on heavy ground after all. Cuis Ghaire, second at Newmarket, was fifteenth today. He overall form suggest she is better on good to firm ground. Super Sleuth had been third to Ghanaati at Newmarket on unsuitable firm ground. This time she trailed in eleventh on ground probably much too soft. So a memo to Brian Meehan: Winning a Classic with a maiden is extremely unlikely but not impossible. But if the maiden in question has had six attempts already, a Group 1 is unlikely in the extreme. This filly should be contesting something much easier in search of that elusive first win. A Listed event or a maiden would be preferable. That is what maidens are designed for. To be fair to Mr Meehan, I suspect his horses are not right at present, but his cavalier attitude does not help even when they are.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 23rd:
HAYDOCK RACING RESULTS:
BETFRED HANDICAP (Class 3): As was the case last night, ground resembling a pudding does mean form needs taking with a portion of salt. In this opening event, always a competitive three-year-old handicap, Exceptional Art, possibly an unlikely winner beforehand, outstayed the likeable Leahurst. Two lightly raced contenders they dominated the finish. Both should have other chances. Although by Exceed And Excel, connections seem to feel Exceptional Art will progress over further and is suited by cut. Quanah Parker was a promising third on his first run of the season ahead of Wannabe King, who ran more to form today than at Windsor last time. A scrappy-looking individual, he seems effective on cloying ground. Changing The Guard was fifth with Definightly putting in some encouraging work in the closing stages. Makaamen was the subject of a public gamble but found the task of shouldering top weight beyond him. Weighted to finish close up with Wannabe King he has not done badly. Film Set showed little.
CECIL FRAIL STAKES (Listed Race) Fillies & Mares: Resulting in a big win for the classy Festoso who was returning to form dropped back to six furlongs. Third to Natagora in the 2007 Cheveley Park Stakes, she handled the ground better than most to record only the second win of a career that now spans nine runs. Pusey Street Lady led until the final furlong but held on to second ahead of Never Lose, Zuzu and Adorn. The last two named were having their debut runs of the season and look certain to improve.
TEMPLE STAKES (Group 2): In truth this was a below-par Group 2; but all credit to the tough and consistent Look Busy who worked her way from last to first. Still only in third place inside the last furlong, she dived late to stick her head in front of Borderlescott, both of whom raced down the nearside. Wi Dud ran a fine race in third having entered the final furlong in front. Arganil was fourth but not many of these were able to stake a claim. Captain Gerrard failed to last on the ground. Reverence is a shadow of his former self and finished last. It seems time to ring down the curtain on his career.
SILVER BOWL HANDICAP (Class 2): The win of Desert Creek in a competitive handicap such as this at what seemed a ludicrously short price of 5/4 was further testimony – as if any were required – of the overall brilliance of Sir Michael Stoute. A winner of a routine maiden at Windsor at the beginning of the month – at a bigger price incidently that he was today – this son of Refuse To Bend made a mockery of his mark of 87, which, on available evidence, seemed about right. The Stoute camp were adamant he was well-treated and so it proved. Although he was keen, once set alight in the straight he quickened well and then repelled the only serious challenge to emerge. Obviously he is improving at a rate of knots. Set The Trend, whose form with Antinori received a boost this week at Sandown, is a strong son of dirt sire Reset that is maturing with racing. Crowded on the rail, he responded to pressure when switched to lay down a persistent threat throughout the last furlong. He has come a long way since his debut at Lingfield. Derbaas was a somewhat surprising third ahead of Ascot winner Good Again with the benchmark Fareer in fifth. Thief Of Time was somewhat disappointing in seventh after never threatening in conditions that should have suited. This looked a strong handicap.
The Class 2 handicap resulted in a dour win for Opinion Poll. The step up to a mile-and-a-half seemed to suit this son of Halling who had too many guns for Distant Memories and Stormy Weather, who looked awkward on the ground and appeared beaten by a combination of it and the weight. Tactic kept on in determined fashion once headed to finish fourth. It was five lengths back to Splinter Cell with the rest coming in at respectable intervals. This was not one of the stronger handicaps of the day.
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
SPILLERS FAIRWAY STAKES (Listed Race): There was little between Palavicini and Father Time last time they met; it was the same story today. Palavicini handled the course and the firm ground better and just held on as Father Time did not find his stride until reaching the rising ground. Although cutting him down hand over fist, the post came too son for Father Time, but Palavicini had his race won by that time. On a galloping track it seems reasonable to suggest it could go either way. Palavicini has taken three runs to make his mark. Eddie Ahern handled him well today, grasping the race by the throat at the right time. Father Time did not help his rider by being a tad keen early and looking disorganised until racing out of the dip. He gave generously when called upon. Big Bound was third ahead of the penalised Your Old Pal with Heliodor making up the field.
KING CHARLES II STAKES (Listed Race): Alyarf upheld what is emerging as solid Craven form when winning this. Fourth behind Delegator, Sans Frontiers and Pure Poetry he looks to have thrived since. American bred, he bounced off this quick ground, stealing a winning lead coming out of the dip and holding on from Nasri who finished strongly. The winner is engaged in the Jersey, a race for which he could be a live contender. A drop back in trip did not suit Donativum who raced too freely and in snatches. Doing his best work in the closing stages, he was beaten a short head for third by Courageous. Providing it has taken the fizz from him, this run will have set him up for a another target over a more realistic trip.
CORAL SPRINT HANDICAP (Class 2): Six furlongs is clearly the ideal trip for Bouvardia who, whilst not pleasing all onlookers last time, ran straight as a gun-barrel to land this prestigious handicap from a mark of 92. By Oasis Dream, she won what looked an odd sort of event. Whilst not detracting from her win, the run by Akhenaten in second is perplexing, as he has not looked like a sprinter up to now. Parisian Pyramid was third ahead of Proclaim. Global City once again took the eye after a rough passage at Salisbury last time. Whilst all around him Godolphin horses are struggling, he seems to be bucking the trend. An extra furlong and some respite from the handicapper may do the trick.
Beaten twenty-three lengths by the smart Canford Cliffs at Newbury, Fantastic Prince came within a whisker of landing the Class 4 maiden. But for drifting to his right he would have prevailed and can be considered a winner without a penalty. Step In Time, with the benefit of a run and the rail to race against, pulled the race from the fire in the closing stages.
Suruor won a weakly-contested Class 3 handicap from Russian George and Something Perfect. Better than fourth was expected of Secret Society, whilst Miltarist looks to have his mind on other things and may be fulfilling an appointment with the vet.
Unraced Loch Linnhe was impressive in the Class 4 maiden. This son of Elusive Quality, suited by the fast ground, skated away from Seaway who was recording his fourth second in as many attempts.
CURRAGH RACING RESULTS:
Air Chief Marshall got into all sorts of trouble in the Listed Race over five furlongs. Having won over seven furlongs last time, this drop in trip, even on heavy ground, was something of a surprise. Bounced around in running, once extricated from a pocket he ran on strongly in third behind Wrong Answer and Foolish Ambition – who was making a highly promising debut.
Utmost Respect had his ground in the Group 3 over six but to win carrying ten stone was a laudable achievement against the likes of Jumbajukiba and Icelandic. Bushranger was not disgraced in fourth. Last year’s Morny and Middle Park winner looks to have trained on and should have a successful campaign now it has been established he is a sprinter.
IRISH 2,000 GUINEAS: After a hard juvenile campaign and having only finished fifth in our Guineas, assuming we may have seen the best of Mastercraftsman seemed reasonable. This may not have been a strong renewal of the first Irish Classic but there was no quibbling with the manner of his win. A strong, deep-girthed son of Danehill Dancer, he copes with soft and heavy ground well and powered away from the opposition. They had a separate race for the places. Rayeni, on only his third run and first of the season, got the better of a hard fought battle with Soul City for second. Both will win races but on this evidence fall short of Group 1 standard. It is always possible Rayeni will step up on this. Soul City, with solid two-year-old form to his credit, ran a few pounds below Group 1 standard. He is unlikely to improve much. He is not a big colt and looked fit for this his first run of the season. Buffeted about at one stage, he ran on with a great deal of courage to grab third. Recharge was an honest fourth – running up to form with Soul City on a line through Intense Focus. Next came Fergus Mciver who had chased home Fame And Glory in the Ballysax. No doubt Derby supporters of Fame And Glory would have preferred to have seen him closer, albeit over a trip that was on the sharp side. Apparently Rip Van Winkle has been winning the accolades at Ballydoyle recently. If – and it is a big if on pedigree – he stays then the inference is he is someway better than Fame And Glory using today’s winner as the benchmark. Delegator ran poorly. Running him on ground this soft was always going to be chancy. He was trained for the English 2,000 Guineas where he looked a dubious stayer, tiring in the last hundred yards. His stamina limitations were cruelly exposed here, as were the shortcomings of his trainer. Quite what Hail Caesar was doing in this line-up is another question that needs answering. This son of Montjeu is crying out for a mile-and-a-half so predictably could never land a blow. A Group 3 is within his compass.
BEVERLEY and CATTERICK RACING RESULTS:
The usual suspects lined up at BEVERLEY and CATTERICK.
Excusez Moi landed a strong-looking Class 2 handicap at Beverley from luckless Fullandby, Advanced, Judd Street and Internationaldebut. Spirit Of Sharjah ran with promise in sixth.
Archers Road landed the Conditions Stakes from Brocklesby winner Hearts Of Fire and Janeiro – who stepped up markedly on his fourth at Southwell on Monday.
At CATTERICK Johannes landed something of a gamble in the Class 4 handicap – one of the better races they will stage throughout the season. Wyatt Earp ran his usual gallant race in second. This is his time of year but he is getting on a bit now. Vhujon, with so much in his favour at Salisbury on Thursday, found this a harder assignment and could never get to grips with the leaders although he was staying on. Thursday was his day.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 22nd:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
Bell’s Ocean, backed from 50/1 to 20/1 at Windsor on debut when a decent enough second, did not build on that run next time but recovered some of the lost cash with a win in the Class 4 fillies’ stakes. With a crosswind and fast ground, it paid to be on the rail, which the winner secured. Yarmouth fifth Fasilight was second ahead of newcomer, I’mneverwrong. With the field comprising of small and unprepossessing fillies, this looked a moderate event.
Bullet Man made all to realise some of the promise his overall appearance suggested. A big son of Mr Greeley, he looked fitter today that on his previous runs and made all in the Class 4 handicap. Ryan Moore bagged the rail early and Bullet Man kept pulling out more when challenged. Those that did the challenging are not out of the top drawer. Baylini was an honourable second, whilst Special Reserve cruised until the production of the proverbial gun to his head when he found little. Bullet Man has the scope to better this but may be somewhat delicate. Presumably sights will be raised next time, whereas the opinion formed is he is better against this sort of opposition. So far, he has enjoyed a favourable handicap mark.
London Bridge broke his maiden at the third time of asking although he was not entirely convincing. The ground may have caused him to hang but he raced with an awkward gait. He was too good for modest opposition in the Class 4 maiden but those in behind failed to inspire.
Tryst would appear to be better suited by further than the seven furlongs of the Class 3 handicap for which he was a silly price. Stoutly bred and racing as if some ease in the ground is required, he only got going when the race was over. Roaring Forte bounced back to form on his first run since September. Tryst should be considered when conditions swing in his favour.
Martyr benefitted from a master class ride from Richard Hughes to win the Class 3 handicap with a little in hand. The form is moderate so a tilt at the King George Handicap at Royal Ascot may be flying high. John Terry was second ahead of Relative Strength who may win next time. Italian import Rangefinder, by Linamix, was never striding out on this lively ground. He hung in the closing stages. Easier ground will improve him.
BRIGHTON RACING RESULTS:
Barzan, eight lengths behind Canford Cliffs at Newbury, paid that impressive winner a compliment when winning the Class 5 maiden at BRIGHTON comfortably under an accomplished ride from his apprentice rider, Ross Atkinson. Going French should go one better in a poor race next time.
PONTEFRACT RACING RESULTS
Walkingonthemoon came back to form in the Class 2 at PONTEFRACT. Although caught in the closing stages by Roi de Vitesse this was more like the promise shown at Newbury. However, that race has fooled me and clearly, Walkingonthemoon – another example of the vagaries of Ascot form – is better than that last appalling effort. There were no excuses for Be Invincible in third. The race he had won at Windsor was not a good one, so this run represents improvement.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MAY 21st:
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
John Dunlop sent out his first juvenile winner of the season when Goodwood Maestro, a colt by Piccolo, won the auction maiden. This was a fair performance from a two-year-old bred to have a turn of foot. He was able to catch Footstepsofspring inside the last furlong. The runner-up had finished last of six behind High Spice and the well-regarded and recent Bath winner, Radiohead at Newmarket. With the third from that maiden, Izaaj, also having succeeded this week – admittedly at a modest level – at least the Newmarket race is working out. Timelord improved markedly on his debut when half-fancied and in the ruck behind useful Raine’s Choice. A wide draw did not assist his chance here, but a lower number would not have improved his overall position. Now he has shown some semblance of ability, he should be placed to advantage when the nursery season starts.
Solar Graphite looked a little unlucky in the Class 4 handicap. He was a victim of this track, switched for a run and finding daylight when it was too late. Brunston, who has a daisy-cutting top-of-the-ground action and is a powerful sort, claimed the prize and it would appear the Charlton stable are striking a vein of form. Bin End was an exposed second. His overall demeanour – carries his head awkwardly – is not entirely convincing.
HEIGHT OF FASHION STAKES (Listed): There was a general feeling that the two market leaders were opposable in this. Copperbeech had finished third in a falsely run Marcel Boussac last year. The runner-up, Elusive Wave, had won the French 1,000 Guineas this season but once again, Godolphin’s policy of buying from other stables has taken a knock. Looking fit, Copperbeech ran poorly. Splashdown finished a highly promising first season with an excellent third in a Listed event at Newmarket behind Enticement and Super Sleuth after winner her maiden at Kempton. For a daughter of Falbrav to have achieved so much at two, all the signs were she should have a successful second season. Unfortunately, little physical improvement was evident. She looked light and narrow in front; by inference she had to be fit. She ran on, not beaten far, but in finishing fourth has some catching up to do if she is to restore her juvenile form. Moneycantbuymelove lost her maiden tag after two runs in fair company this year. With negativity surrounding the market leaders, she was an overlooked winner. Confidently ridden, she showed a superior turn of foot inside the last furlong. Fallen In Love, whose form via Three Moons and Polly’s Mark tied in with the winner, ran a fine race to finish second in such elevated company after breaking her maiden at Haydock last September. She has improved since last year but, rated 77 before this run, she will not be easy to place after declaring her hand in such dramatic fashion. Say No Now seemed found out by the trip of ten furlongs in third, and a return to a mile is on the cards. So it appears those outside the first three need to find improvement if they are to be competitive in similar events later in the season.
Course winner Cake made a bold attempt to supplement her win at the last meeting in the Class 2 handicap. She is speedy and suited by a fast course like this, but the 3lbs weight rise just anchored her. Piscean defied a nine-month absence to score with Little Pete once again finding his stride too late. He has run to form with Cake on their last running here but may improve a pound or two if tried over six.
The time was slow in the Class 5 maiden for fillies for which Saa’ida, who had mixed it in better company, was favourite. Her form when eight lengths behind Nehaam and Monitor Closely on her second start exceeded anything her opponents could muster. She came from off the pace to clinch it a furlong out, with a bunch of three headed by Honours Stride from Repetischa and My Chestnut Girl close up. As a race, this was ordinary but not as bad as the time may label it. A winner or two may emerge providing they are contesting the right grade.
Mujood kept on bravely to land the Class 4 handicap. Marajaa failed to find quite what was expected in second, a remark that applies in equal measure to the fourth, Rambling Light. Cape Hawk showed he may be ready to return to form with a fair third. This was not a strong handicap.
The card at HAYDOCK was moderate and further complicated by a strong headwind and tacky ground. Some of the form may not travel. The stoutly-bred Contract Caterer [by Azamour] ran with some promise in the second division of the Class 5 maiden. After a slow start he was noted staying on in taking style and should know more next time but needs to be confined to this sort of level.
Although they are nothing special, disappointing runs by Major Phil and Secret Witness should not be taken too literally in the Class 4 handicap won by Arrivederla.
Grey Granite made all in the maiden, stretching away in the final furlong-and-a-half to beat some moderate opposition. By Dalakhani, the winner will stay further. The runner-up, six-year-old Cry Alot Boy, looked as if his stamina ran out. A poor event in the north over a mile may come his way sooner or later as he looked all set to mount a real challenge until the petrol gauge swung to empty.
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
Experience won the day in the Class 4 maiden fillies’ stakes. Drawn one, Above Limits was out like the proverbial scalded cat and crossed to the favoured far side before the end of the first furlong. Heavily bandaged and climbing on the ground, this strongly made daughter of Exceed And Excel just lasted. Her form with Diamond Laura and Avon Valley is no more than reasonable. It would be unwise to ask her to race on ground with the word firm appearing again. Itwasonlyakiss was closing in second but unable to head the all-the-way winner. Exotic Beauty was best of the rest.
Lively Fling took a market walk after acting colty in the paddock before the Class 4 handicap and sweating under the saddle. Although not necessarily well-treated overall from a mark of 85, he did look the one to beat here considering his form tied in with Glasgow Stakes third Holberg. Still green, he did not help himself in running and folded, then plugged on in the straight. Penang Princess got the better of a tight finish with the Galileo colt King Of Wands, both in the right positions in a race that developed into a sprint. Two that came from off the pace under difficult circumstances were the good-looking son of Street Cry, Cry For The Moon, and Darley Sun. Cry For The Moon in particular is an interesting prospect as he has plenty of size about him, which will help defy a rise in the weights.
Mirrored looked a lot straighter before the Class 4 handicap than he had done when winning at Kempton last month. Up 7lbs for that win, with the form working out without looking exceptional, Mirrored was a short price. The one slight doubt for a son of Dansili was the ground, which was firming all the time. It was not a worry although he had to work to master Al Sabaheya, something he always threatened to do once overdrive was engaged. A likeable sort, ten furlongs may bring further improvement and he will be better with a little juice to work with. Rated 82 at present, he should not be harshly treated by the handicapper for such a narrow win. Roar Of Applause was third.
Antinori looked mulish at the start of the Class 4 handicap and not for the first time the omens were not good. He has already hinted at a dubious attitude. Eventually loaded, although not straightforward, he made the running and found plenty when kicked on approaching the final furlong. Third last time to the useful Aqwaal and Polly’s Mark [both winners since] he has done no favours to those two as the strength of that form is unlikely to be overlooked. Whether Antinori can repeat this remains to be seen. State Banquet ran on well for second on his first run of the campaign. Sandor and Decision had finished behind him on debut so he brought fair form to the race. The Fonz was held in third. By Oasis Dream, his action is conducive with so many of that sire; however there is no evidence suggesting he is much better than his bare form.
The Class 5 maiden was almost certainly below par. Four-year-old Bugaku, a giant gelding by Montjeu, hit the front between the last two poles and found enough to hold on from Spiekeroog and Racing Hero. The vibes beforehand suggested little was fancied and it is unlikely this race will throw up many winners. Talk of Bugaku taking in something like the John Smith’s Magnet Cup is alarmingly premature. Not being rude, if John Smith’s are to be providing a future purse for Bugaku it could be at the Grand National meeting at Aintree.
Leocorno smashed her ultra-generous handicap mark of 78 into pieces after a five-length win in the Class 4. Considered a possible for the Oaks, she is all quality and looked very classy in comparison with her rivals both before and during the contest. A little keen early, she was lobbing down the straight until booted clear by Frankie Dettori to score by five lengths. After such an eye-catching introduction as a juvenile, she was only confirming her wellbeing after a couple of setbacks. Even if confined to handicaps for one more race, a rise of fifteen pounds is unlikely to prevent her from winning again. However, it is likely sights are to be raised to a higher level.
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
Once again, those with form occupied the first three in the maiden for juveniles. Sir Parky came with a steady run to take it up inside the last furlong. Tucker’s Law stayed on to head the stocky Radio City, who had made the running until tiring inside the final furlong. He looks an out and out sprinter that wants a quick track like Goodwood.
Richard Hughes finally coaxed Vhujon to an overdue success in the Class 4 handicap. Everything: trip, track, ground, mark and lack of serious opposition was in Vhujon’s favour tonight and Hughes was a bonus.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 20th:
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
This eccentric course played its part in the finish as the runners in the Class 4 handicap raced down the straight with many of them apparently going well. None more so than Forte Dei Marmi, suddenly locked in jail by Shane Kelly on December Draw. Angling for a run, young William Buick made a difficult task seem easy as he eventually escaped to push Forte Dei Marmi out for a narrow win. By Selkirk, this thrice-raced three-year-old is value for more than the official short head and presumably will be better on easier ground. He looks typical of the type his trainer does well with. Sandor and Silver Games were next to finish in what was just an ordinary race. December Draw was fourth and Advisor, a strong traveller until over a furlong out, seemed reluctant to let himself down on the ground. A winner on the soft at Windsor, it would appear that is required for him to show his best.
La Pantera needed every yard of the six furlongs to get on top in the Class 5 maiden fillies’ stakes. Her third on her only run to Existentialist was no more than fair form but enough to see her home today. The Paul Cole duo, Falling Angel and Velvet Band, filled the places ahead of Flyinflyout. For those unable to place the French 1,000 Guineas winner Elusive Wave, she won this last year for Richard Hannon before going on to greater glory. The possibility of such a lurker being within this line-up seems remote.
COCKED HAT STAKES (Listed Race): Billed as a Derby trial, this failed to look like one in running. Fourth in the Lingfield equivalent, Alwaary has apparently improved since. Taken literally, he has paid a compliment to Age Of Aquarius. Beauchamp Xerxes, well beaten by Harbinger at Chester, was second. Sight Unseen – behind Golden Sword at Chester and becoming exposed – narrowly beat Free Agent who looked slightly in need of the run. Godolphin’s representative, Chock A Block, finished a forlorn last. Alwaary may be better than the bare form suggests, but as yet Group 1 targets seem beyond his grasp. To be fair he is improving. The rest are what they say they are on the tin.
The assumption that Kayf Aramis was something of a good thing in the Class 4 handicap after his facile York win of last week overlooked one vital point. Apart from the fact he faced different ground today, he is not known as a horse that wins in quick succession. Never able to dominate this time as he did last week, and over two furlongs shorter, he did not look happy on the ground, finding it a struggle from three out. Rocking and rolling more than Chuck Berry, although staying on in reluctant fashion in the last furlong, he was never going to get there. Sweetheart, fit from hurdling, crept into contention to steal the prize close home. Not a race to glean too much from except for Venetia Williams to ponder that Kayf Aramis needs a break between races and a little juice in the ground. Two miles also seems a minimum.
Sabotage stayed on nicely in the Class 5 median auction but Elliptical had flown by the time the penny dropped.
Fantasy Land had the best form in the Class 5 maiden for fillies to my mind but she was always liable to be vulnerable. She ran well enough after a better third than given credit for at Thirsk when behind Ishe Mac and Palacefield. She looks as if she will be suited by further than seven furlongs and, being by Danehill Dancer, some give in the ground would not go amiss either. So Blissful was a shock winner with the Stoute representative, Visite Royale second. This was another run-of-the-mill maiden.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 19th:
YARMOUTH RACING RESULTS:
Six furlongs made a difference to the performances of Izaaj and Rock Of Love in the Class 5 Maiden. Izaaj had the better form after finishing third at Newmarket to the filly High Spice and yesterday’s Bath winner, Radiohead. He and Rock Of Love, a disappointing favourite at Hamilton last time, pulled seven lengths clear of Fonterutoli, an unraced Verglas colt trained by Marco Botti.
Al Azy finally won his race – a Class 5 handicap over 1m 6f, in which he reversed earlier form with Lady Pilot. A son of Nayef, he was winning from a lowly mark of 51 and is not sure to reproduce this form next time.
NOTTINGHAM RACING RESULTS:
Key Art, fourth to Little Perisher at Ascot, did not bolster that form when unable to overhaul Dancing Freddy in the Class 5 maiden.
Having finished third to the smart Three Moons and then second to subsequent winner, Aqwaal, Polly’s Mark was able to capitalise on a mark of 80 in the Class 4 handicap against her own sex. She took a time to get going, but finished well on top in the end. She beat little so five or six pounds should be the extent of her rise in the ratings. She will stay further than ten furlongs, which may help her negate the handicapper.
Mohtashem was all the rage in the maiden despite the fact he had to overturn earlier Kempton form with Sovereign Remedy. Not for the first time the formbook held sway, but in mitigation Mohtashem pulled away his chance early in the race. Sovereign Remedy, nicely settled throughout, held on in a tight finish with the unfurnished Ithinkbest, who took the eye at Epsom last time and again here. He is now qualified for a handicap mark and should be winning shortly. Royal Defence was a taking finisher for Dandy Nicholls and is another that should soon win a handicap.
LEICESTER RACING RESULTS:
Tawaabb, second to Crown on debut, had too much pace for State Fair over five furlongs in the Class 4 maiden. The runner-up will be better when racing over six.
Dark Prospect put up a game performance when getting back up to deprive Annabelle’s Charm after she had headed him a furlong out in the Class 4 Handicap. The runner-up has plenty of ability but not the resolution to match. Craftily ridden last time, it failed to work on this occasion. These two were clear. There is a race in Folio when the ground rides soft. However, now nine, he needs to avoid the sort of progressive opponents faced here.
Steel Free, second in the Bridget Maiden at Newbury, became another casualty of the race when failing to justify cramped odds in the Class 5 maiden. All evidence points to the fact that although some nice fillies strutted round the paddock at Newbury, the race itself was no more than ordinary despite the pedigrees of many involved.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 18th:
WINDSOR HORSE RACING RESULTS:
The two Richard Hannon juveniles fought out the opening maiden, with Yer Woman coming from last to first to collar her stable companion, White Daffodil.
The Hannon team followed up in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes when, given a confident ride, Monsieur Chevalier eventually strode clear of Archers Road. This was a pleasing performance but not as taking as that seen by his stable mate Canford Cliffs at Newbury on Friday. Archers Road continues to supply his entourage with value for money.
Cosimo was slightly disappointing in the Class 4 Handicap. Fourth of six against modest opposition did not represent any improvement on his last effort.
However, team-Stoute roared back with the grey filly, Strawberrydaiquiri in the maiden. She had shown definite promise when second here a month ago behind Cartoon, but there is not a lot of her and despite positive noises from the stable, I doubted her ability to make a great deal of improvement. She romped in. Candy Ride was an honest enough second. Of all the runners in the Bridget Maiden at Newbury, she was the one that seemed most likely to advance. The race has failed to supply a winner and she probably has progressed but lofty ambitions need to be shelved. At present this distant second is as good as she is.
Affluent won the Class 4 Handicap well enough. Being an Oasis Dream the juice in the ground was a great help. Conversely the third, Desert Strike, looks as if a faster surface will suit.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 17th:
LONGCHAMP HORSE RACING RESULTS:
The run of Coastal Path in the Group 2 was disappointing. Granted the ground was soft, probably too soft, but he has suffered four reversals since contesting the Ascot Gold Cup in June last year when it appeared a big future beckoned. It remains to be seen whether he can bounce back.
Stacelita was very impressive in the ground when winning the Group 1. By Monsun, the ground may have exaggerated her superiority but she did win very easily.
Curtain Call and Goldikova were other casualties in ground that found them out in the Prix d’Ispahan. Never On Sunday stayed on strongly to beat Gris De Gris and Runaway. Loup Breton was another to misfire after his second in the Ganay to Vision D’Etat. These results probably need treating with caution.
Closer to home, Big Game Hunter won a Navan maiden with some authority. He is reported to be a useful inmate from the Ballydoyle set-up.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 16th:
NEWBURY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
They gave Sam Sharp plenty of rope in the Class 4 maiden allowing him a clear lead, which on soft ground was not about to be recovered. Second at Kempton on his only outing this year, this son of Johannesburg – not representative of his sire on looks – stayed on with the race safely in the bag from a furlong out. Cotillion was second on debut, with promise shown by a running-on Twisted – a son of Selkirk. He ran like a horse that wants further, although on breeding ten furlongs would be as far as he wants to go. He should win soon. The Pivotal debutant, Pictorial, was another noted staying on nicely throughout the last quarter-of-a-mile and will be sharper next time.
AON ASTON PARK STAKES (Listed Race): Once again, a race won from the front. Richard Hills has been in sparkling form this year and will give fewer good rides to a mount than he did to Tastahil today. Making the running but racing comfortably, it became tight two out as stride-by-stride All The Aces closed. In front inside the last furlong, All The Aces had run his race, allowing the willing Tastahil a second chance. Asked for more he regained the advantage to win in tough style but with a little in hand. Tastahil is a much-improved five-year-old that got an extended 1m 5f comfortably today: as for further, two miles might be pushing it. The Betchworth Kid was eight lengths back in third. Tropical Strait broke a front leg approaching the line; Spanish Hidalgo pulled up lame early in the straight.
JUDDMONTE LOCKINGE STAKES (Group 1): This was a strong renewal of this Group 1, producing a terrific finish. On this rain-softened ground, Virtual, a son of Pivotal that is best with some cut and stays a mile well, had the elements to bring out the best in him. He got the better of a desperate finish with Alexandros – no pushover himself – who was having his fifth run of the year. After a busy and progressive campaign at Nad Al Sheba, culminating in a third to one of the best horses in the world according to many in Gladiatorus in the Dubai Duty Free, Alexandros had finished a close seventh in a hot Group 1 in Hong Kong.
Overlooked today, he ran a great race, only narrowly beaten on ground that was not ideal. But this was Virtual’s day; one he deserved if only in view of his consistency. However, he may struggle to build on it at such a level. Twice Over has run one of his best races, certainly leaving his disappointing Newmarket third behind him in making the running and going down narrowly in third. Paco Boy did not get the run of the race. It may have made the difference between being third at worst. Switched at a crucial stage, he used precious resources to claw back the leaders and arrive on the scene to make a line of four a furlong out and even take a slight advantage. This ground and possibly the last hundred yards was his undoing, but at this level any hindrance in running can make a huge difference. As suspected by many, seven furlongs is Paco Boy’s optimum trip. Major Cadeaux appeared a furlong out looking a danger to all but was another found out by the trip on this ground. Atlantic Sport was sixth.
AON LONDON GOLD CUP (Heritage Handicap): Aqwaal had created the right impression at Sandown and looking tighter today, had to stretch to catch Decision close home. This was another great ride from Richard Hills as pulling back ground on this sort of surface is never easy. Aqwaal is a strong, well-made colt that is on the upgrade. He defied a 9lb weight rise to win from a mark of 85 today, which still gives him a chance of winning again despite the inevitable readjustment. Plans are likely to include the King Edward VII at Royal Ascot so this may be the last handicap he contests. Decision, a small filly in comparison, could not cope with the winner’s strength in a tough scrap to the line. Holyrood is gradually getting there. By Falbrav, this ground would not have been ideal but he has the profile of an improver. His effort in third suggests he can win a decent race – possibly something like the Magnet Cup at York. Lasso The Moon and the poorly treated Aurorian were next to finish. We should forget the runs of Legislate and Sehoy as both failed to handle the ground.
BERRY BROS & RUDD HANDICAP: Those that kept the faith with the Oasis Dream colt, Main Aim, were rewarded in a major way here. Looking terrific beforehand, this ease in the ground enabled him to show his true worth. A run at Newmarket in October on fast ground over five furlongs last year was a rare mistake from his excellent trainer, but Main Aim has come back in style. Racing from 99, and loitering at the rear, he was adrift of the pace at halfway but cruised to the leaders to come right way in the manner of a top class sprinter. He will obviously be targeted at Group company from here on but ease is the ground is a must. The impressive winner simply outclassed the rest. Aye Aye Digby was a stunned runner-up, ahead of Nightjar and Perfect Flight, who ran well on her reappearance. As a Hawk Wing (notorious for running best fresh), her record suggests dispensing with the usual caveat. Spanish Bounty is heading in the right direction handicap-wise and may find a race before too long, particularly when the ground firms up. He goes well at Newmarket’s July course. The decision to ask Exclamation to take part in his third handicap within a month showed little in the way of common sense. After two hard races, predictably he ran flat. Brian Meehan is a lucky trainer. He gets plenty of good horses to train. The problem is that a vital ingredient, found between the ears and lodged in the brain, appears to be missing.
CARTRDIGE FARM STUD FILLIES’ HANDICAP: (Class 4): Run over the straight seven furlongs, this was a race peppered with hard luck stories. Biggest of all was Glen Molly, for whom her brush with the fates began the moment the stalls opened. Not best way then bumped, as a small filly she was tossed around like a cork on the ocean. Soon behind, she began a consistently interrupted run. Robert Winston tried several different positions, each time finding the door slammed in his face. Eventually coming back to the rails, Glen Molly flew, despite hanging her head to one side, as she was presumably fed-up with the whole process. In the clear, she made a valiant attempt to grab the lead but Never Lose was away and home. In second, Glen Molly goes down as a most unfortunate loser. No blame should be apportioned; it is just one of those things backers in such races sometimes have to endure. A word of caution is due here. She will presumably be all the rage next time, but considering her size and that fact she has run two races in one today, she may need time to recover. Lovely Thought was third with Belle Des Aires fourth. Miss Eze and Volochkova, although nowhere near so unlucky as Glen Molly, were others to suffer interference in running.
CLASS 4 MAIDEN (Div 1): With the exception of what is described as a very smart three-year-old, the winner Prince Of Dance, this did not look a quality affair. The winner, by Danehill Dancer, handled the drying ground well and drew away tidily. Ermine And Velvet underlined the wellbeing of the Clive Brittain team in second ahead of Broad Cairn. He is a big son of Green Desert that travelled smoothly until finding it a job to haul himself out of the sticky surface in the last two furlongs. He will better this on different ground.
CLASS 4 MAIDEN (Div II): This did not look as good as the first division. Prince Of Johanne won narrowly after a couple of undistinguished runs this month. The obvious inference is that he was turned out so quickly to obtain a handicap mark. By consensus, the best-looking horse in field was the Mizzen Mast colt, Criticize. Trained by Roger Charlton, who knows the sire’s progeny well, he staked his claim inside the last furlong to fail by the narrowest margin. Dreamcoat, Truly Asia – a stablemate of the runner-up – and Almuktahem made up a group of five that finished clear. After a dreadful start, Cottonfields probably did enough in seventh to suggest he can win a race on the all-weather.
NEWMARKET HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Invisible Man finally got his head in front in the maiden after a couple of disappointing runs. This time he made all to repel the challenge of his only serious rival, Merdaam, who had finished a promising third at Newbury to the highly regarded duo of Bridge Of Gold and Clockmaker. Merdaam had every chance, particularly when Invisible Man rolled on hitting the rising ground, but he was not good enough today. They were clear of some modest opposition.
In the Class 3 handicap, all the talk beforehand was of Riggins, a twice-raced son of Cape Cross. Racing from 89, with a Queen Anne entry, he was described as a Group horse in a handicap. He might as well have stayed in his box, as he was the camel and the field the eye of the needle. Possibly given an over confident ride, he was soon well behind with gap after gap closing as his jockey got progressively more earnest. Eventually, Dane O’ Neill gave up the ghost and eased down. Under the pump at one stage and although making ground, Riggins was not doing so comfortably. He is clearly better than this, but may not be as good as billed. Ace Of Hearts won the event from a mark of 95 from the former Classic aspirant Final Verse. In third, nine-year-old Habshan made it a successful sortie for Chris Wall.
Chiberta King sparked the first leg of an Andrew Balding-William Buick treble in the Class 3 handicap. He gained the upper hand over Petrovsky who was conceding thirteen pounds. Clowance House is a filly that appears to stay all day. Presumably, judging by the way she was finishing at the death, she will get further. Headline Act ran too badly to be true and is worth another chance on easier ground.
Victoria Montoya bounced out after nine months on the sidelines to defeat Record Breaker in the Class 2 handicap. Young Mick – now back to a more suitable trip – and Boz were next to finish.
Niran – an unraced Captain Rio – beat Shark Man in the Class 4 Novice stakes where King’s Approach was squeezed for room in third. This did not compromise his position, but he would have been closer to the first two.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 15th:
YORK HORSE RACING RESULTS:
MARYGATE STAKES (Listed Race) (Fillies): A change in the ground meant that it was not a case of breaking and running. Dispol Keasha, who looks and runs like a pure sprinter, broke well enough and led until tiring in the final furlong. Three pulled clear and it was up to Misheer, racing up the far rail, to keep sticking her neck out to hold Aalsmeer who was in the centre of the track. This is not Misheer’s ground so she has done well to win. Her action suggests she will be even better on faster ground. Little Scotland was a surprising third considering the mediocre nature of her first run. There was a break back to Diamond Laura and Azif, running their Windsor form to the pound.
HERITAGE HANDICAP (Class 2): The stoutly bred Farmigadelaguista caused something of an upset by winning this, but had bits of form that gave him a chance when you looked back. The ground seems to have swung in his favour and in the end he galloped his rivals into the ground. Sahrati held second from Tilt. Electrolyser shaped with a good deal of promise on his first run of the season in such testing conditions. Bollin Felix was the only other one to finish on ground that suits him. King Charles has not won for eighteen months and possibly his stamina gave out. In finishing sixth, he has run with credit. Walking Talking was another to shape with some promise. He looks to be a few pounds too high in the handicap at present. Warringah looked fit but ran poorly despite a positive message. The ground cannot be attributable for such a dismal performance. Redesignation was another that never got a blow at the leaders.
YORKSHIRE CUP (Group 2): A big win here for Ask, who tends to run well fresh and proved capable of handling this step up in trip. Moving comfortably throughout, he was ridden as if the trip was not an issue. Once taken to the front, he steadily drew clear of Blue Bajan and Veracity, who did not look entirely at ease on the ground. Washington Irving performed well for his new stable in fourth but there were disappointments. Fuilin ran poorly, Royal And Regal once again led but was easily brushed aside – later reported to be distressed – whilst the moody Centennial failed to pick up the bit.
MICHAEL SEELY MEMORIAL FILLIES’ STAKES (Listed Race): Apparently it was discovered that Nasmiah had an ulcer of some kind in her mouth after finishing ninth in the Guineas. What difference that made to a filly not entitled to figure in a Classic is debatable. However, this was more her level and she showed a good deal of character to keep on when strongly pressed by Moonlife. Unlike the winner, Moonlife was all over the shop but she did look certain to win when Dettori had her in the clear and racing. Seradim was third. Talk of the winner going for the Irish Guineas, or for the Coronation, seems optimistic in the extreme.
Valery Borzov skated away with the Class 2 handicap having bounced out of the stalls and showed terrific speed from the word go. Four lengths clear a furlong out and not stopping, the heavily backed Harrison George could never get to grips with the all-the-way winner from the opposite side of the course. It is possible Valery Borzov raced on a faster strip of turf, but we know he is effective when the mood takes him. Abraham Lincoln was third. He continues to hint at a return to form. Barons Spy and River Falcon, another possibly on the verge of winning the right handicap, followed.
NEWBURY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Canford Cliffs, a big, well-grown two-year-old by Tagula, was impressive in the first division of the Class 4 maiden. This race was all about the winner who cruised then quickened in a flash to draw right away. He is one of the best two-year-olds we have seen so far on this evidence. He must be Royal Ascot bound. Rakaan was a respectable second with the backed Barzan similarly dispatched in third.
Kurtanella, who had run with promise at Salisbury when desperately green behind Leleyf, knew more today and was able to collar Mijas Playa inside the final furlong. The front two have both shown improvement on their last runs. Kurtanella seemed to enjoy the easy conditions, whilst Mijas Playa, left behind at Chester, put in a better show here.
CARNARVON STAKES (Listed Race): On suitable ground, the Selkirk colt, Border Patrol, was able to cope with a reduction in trip having won over a mile last time. Outpaced early, he steamrollered through a gap a furlong out to gain the upper hand in taking style. This trip is his minimum and this sort of easy ground essential. The form from his maiden could not have worked out better as South Easter was a Chester winner last week. Versatile as regards trip, options await for Border Patrol who should continue to give a good account. Triple Aspect shaped well on his reappearance in second ahead of Awinnersgame, whose stable is not in top gear yet. Marine Boy turned in one of his better efforts in fourth. It may not be coincidence his only win was at this track.
SWETTENHAM STUD FILLIES’ TRIAL STAKES (Listed Race): Apple Charlotte won the first division of the maiden later completed by Sariska at Newmarket last autumn. These fillies have taken different paths since with the classier Sariska hogging the limelight. However, Apple Charlotte has done nothing wrong, winning her third race on the roll. Always travelling well, she had to dig to hold off the challenges of The Miniver Rose, whose form at Newmarket is good, and Uninza. The ground was probably against Apple Charlotte and she will be better on a faster surface. Danehill’s Pearl was essentially fifth of five – sixth horse looked unsound – so she is not the first filly that has failed to consolidate the Bridget Maiden form.
There was no Carnford Cliffs in the second division of the maiden won by the Best Of The Bests gelding Meglio Ancora who was too strong for Alrasm. Lofthouse confirmed his Pontefract form was all wrong by finishing third ahead of Brisbane. Alrasm was the pick of these on looks. A deep-chested individual by Acclamation, he came there to win a furlong out but seemed to fall apart in the ground. It should not take him long to go one better.
The Class 4 handicap looked a fair event. Simon Gray foiled a gamble on Alanbrooke with a fast finishing Decorum gaining hand-over-fist in third. Ultimate and Brunston made up a quintet that we should hear more of in handicaps. Even the sixth horse, El Bravo, ran with promise. He can be marked down for something in the near future. Being by Falbrav it is reasonable to assume this ground was against him.
NEWMARKET HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Backed at fancy prices, Electric Feel made up ground to win the Class 4 maiden fillies’ in reasonable style. Bella Swan and persistent Angelena Ballerina were close up, as was Silver Symphony who did much better than on her debut when making little show behind Its Alright.
Open Sesame was an easy winner of the Class 5 handicap, following up on a win at Great Leighs in January.
Pravda Street and Hustle – both overdue wins – dead-heated in the class 3 Handicap.
The Class 4 maiden for fillies may have been better than it looked at first glance. Crimson Ribbon won with something to spare from Sweet Hollow, who may have been unlucky in that a run failed to materialise when required. Ramora finished strongly whilst dark Quest, who is on the small side, hung in the last furlong. These four were clear.
The feature event at Hamilton was the re-routed Glasgow Stakes, for so long a fixture at York. Parthenon looks like a colt on the upgrade. He made all in relentless fashion to repel what could be called a half-hearted attempt by the Irish challenger Stately Home. A Montjeu with a high head carriage, he took some persuading to go about his business. In contrast, Parthenon kept battling and galloping and there should be more to come. Holberg ran up to form in third but was caught out by the first two. Popmurphy did not advertise the form of Debussy or Midday, but to be fair they have managed that without his help. Emirates Champion and Bothy both ran as if the trip was beyond them.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MAY 14th:
YORK HORSE RACING RESULTS:
Totesuper 7 Stakes (Handicap): A cracking sprint started the day. With six in a line abreast a furlong out it was anyone’s race. Everymanforhimself (appropriately enough) led until the dying strides when nutted by Internationaldebut – coming from a stable that specialises in bouncing their horses around in trip. He had been campaigned at all distances from 1m 2f to today’s minimum. They raced on ground eased by overnight rain, making conditions look about perfect. Cheveton is holding his form although he has not won since opening this campaign with a success at Southwell. Despite all his wins having been at five, he may be worth a try at six. Hamish McGonagall demonstrated he had come on for his debut by finishing fourth; on a line with Cheveton (worse off than when behind him at Musselburgh) he had two lengths and three pounds to find. He found most of it and looks poised to win. The next two are enigmas. Osterhose is a ten-year-old and Strike Up The Band, never one to dismiss, was hard to fancy after having everything in his favour at Chester last time. Sonny Red finished seventh and remains the one of interest after a corking first run for his new stable at Newbury. All his wins were as a juvenile so have been at the minimum trip. On this evidence, five is too sharp for him these days. Able to lie up but not quicken, he ran a little below the Newbury form with Cheveton but this ground was possibly a shade fast for him, certainly over this trip. Stepped up to six, with some cut in the ground, Sonny Red can win a big handicap. Speculation as to what that will be is pointless: The Great St Wilfred, The Wokingham, The Stewards’ Cup, take your pick; he is in good hands, the stable will know and the clues will be trip and ground.
TOTEPOOL MIDDLETON STAKES (Group 3) (Fillies & Mares): With the three market leaders all returning for the season, a message for Dar Re Mi was reflected in the market. She has done particularly well physically since last year. Dashed to the front five out, as the pace was slow, she was cruising down the straight, hunted by Crystal Capella. If you are going to get in a battle, it is not a good idea to have Crystal Capella as your opponent. She just does not give up! In typical Dettori style, he allowed her to edge past inside the last and then staged the famous rally that invariably pays off for him. Not this time as, once headed, Crystal Capella fought back once again, inching ahead in the shadow of the post and this time Dar Re Mi had no answer. Put simply this was a great horserace between two fine fillies. They were well clear of Princess Taylor and a disappointing Changing Skies.
TOTESPORT DANTE STAKES (Group 2): Reinforcing their strong hand, it was a case of Ireland first and second in this the last of the major Derby trials. As far as looks were concerned, Sans Frontieres finally got the nod as he was cool and composed throughout whereas several of his rivals became edgy. He was one of three in the paddock to get the big red tick; the others were Crowded House and Redwood. Nehaam did not look as he had come on at all since Newmarket. Glass Harmonium is compact, Freemantle a fine big grizzly of a horse that was carrying condition, Monitor Closely looked outclassed. Three were hooded for entry: Redwood -who got restless – Native Ruler and Glass Harmonium. Freemantle made the running and in this much sterner test than he has ever faced before, covered himself in glory. He was only caught in the closing stages. There is plenty of improvement to come from him. The performance of his stable companion, Black Bear Island should not be underestimated either. Last down the straight and in an unpromising position, he was launched two out to produce his best work at the finish. Sans Frontieres, second to Delegator in the Craven, brings only solid form to the table in third. Monitor Closely – representing also-ran Guineas form – was fourth and the last two mentioned suggest this race is short of Group 1 standard. However, a few of these could continue in the ascendancy. Kite Wood did not impress beforehand or in the race. Apparently, he is still on target for Epsom. Perhaps Godolphin are to run him in the handicap Conduit won last year. Now, apart from the first two, for those that surpassed themselves. Glass Harmonium missed the break but finished strongly under a considerate ride in sixth. Given one smack then nudged to the line, Native Ruler was a very credible seventh. These two can make giant strides before the end of the season. In all likelihood, they are not Group 1 horses but today were ridden with the future in mind. That leaves Crowded House, who travelled well enough but found little when it mattered. It was always my contention that his juvenile form was not what it looked. That was proved today. He is another that will be wasting his time at Epsom. Redwood was cruelly exposed but temperament might have got the better of him at the start. Like a lot of Nayefs, for the time being at least, Neeham has gone backwards.HAMBLETON STAKES (Handicap) (Listed Race): By and large the field consisted of horses on familiar terms with the handicapper. The one possible exception was Yamal, who had won on dirt in Dubai and finished second twice on turf. He had kept good company so his mark of 104 against such opposition made him of interest. Always handily placed, it was plain he was travelling well from some way out and once Dettori gave him the nod, it was a case of race over. He is on the small side so would probably struggle if saddled with a big weight over a stiff track. Philario was second ahead of the reliable Mia’s Boy. Lovelace made late headway despite traffic problems to earn fourth place. Blythe Knight ran up to form. Flipando finished well but could not score from a career-high mark against this sort of company. Lang Shining wants softer ground; Extraterrestrial has probably done his winning for the time being – Moynahan once again flopped.
EUROPEAN BREEDERS’ FUND CONDITIONS STAKES: Rievaulx World has terrific early pace and again blitzed from the gates until the meter ran to empty inside the last furlong. Anglezarke then picked him off. A quick five is what the runner-up needs – somewhere like Epsom or Goodwood will suit his style of racing. Fault ran well above anything so far shown in third. Now, it is worth imparting a tip here that I do not always take but should. If a horse does not win when everything is in its favour but looks unlucky – do not back it when on a recovery mission. Such was the case with City Dancer here. Turned out six days after throwing away her chance at Chester, she was awkward at the start, ran too freely and failed to pick up in the closing stages. Having beaten Fault last time, a reproduction of her Chester run would have put her in the mix. As it was, it would appear she was feeling the effects of her excursions at Chester. She should come back to form providing she is now given a break. However, the door is closing on her for the time being. Taken of his feet early, Thunderous Mood stayed on. Six may be his trip and he is no lost cause.
EBF MAIDEN STAKES (Class 3): Paul Cole rolled back the years with success in this, producing a very fit son of Proud Citizen in No Hubris. Now we are seeing two-year-olds over six furlongs, it gives a better chance to debutants but No Hubris did not need an advantage as he knew his job. Revved up, he was fast out, racing with ears right back as he cleared away from the field. Flying Statesman finished best of the rest to snatch second ahead of Beethoven, the first juvenile representative from Ballydoyle to venture this side of the Irish Sea. Beethoven is on the small side and it seems likely he will not make too much in the way of improvement. Trade Secret, who has shown ability in his two starts to date without appealing as being in this class, was fourth. Hasty showed a glimmer of promise for as filly. Fine Sight is a fine strong son of Cape Cross that struggled to cope but should improve with time. Original Dancer is another nice-looking sort that should come on for the experience.
CLASS 4 HANDICAP: The curtain-closer was run over 2m 2f. In a quirky handicap for this meeting, Kayf Aramis won this race for the third time. There is little else to say about this as a race, except to comment that unproven stayer, Legion D’Honneur, was given no chance of lasting this trip when tanking along in front. By Halling, predictably, he faded down the straight.
SALISBURY HORSE RACING RESULTS:
There was money for the two Cheveley Park representatives in the race for maiden fillies. They finished first and third. Aromatic handled the fast ground and stayed this ten furlongs well. Entreat had difficulty striding out on the fast ground and once again left the impression she will be more effective over a mile. Third to Star Ruby at Sandown, now she has run three times she will be of interest in a handicap over a mile on easier ground.
Russian Rock won a modest juvenile event from two that had unshipped their jockeys beforehand. They were Spanish Acclaim and Kalam Daleel.
Rosika won the class 4 handicap for fillies. She showed all the right qualities at Bath last time, and again today when called upon, winning form 77. Top weight Coming Back was an honest runner-up, ahead of Ballet Dancer in a race dominated by the big Newmarket yards. Full Of Nature recovered from a slow start to take fourth.
Jeremiah may be worth noting for next time. He travelled well in the Class 5 handicap but was repeatedly denied a run. Eventually pulled to the outside, he did make up ground but it was too little too late. He may have made the places with a clean passage and looks capable of winning a poor event in the near future.
NEWMARKET HORSE RACING RESULTS:
The Hermitage, a reasonable second at Beverley on her first attempt, was soon in command in the Class 5 median auction. Social Grace recovered from a silly start, where she ran left from the gates, to finish second. This was only average form but the winner did it with authority.
Adrain McCarthy handled the cranky Bombina perfectly to win the Class 5 Handicap from a mark of 70. Such success was not envisaged last year when she ended the season taking on Listed company at Newmarket. Having refused to start twice as a juvenile and shown more than a slice of attitude, she was nursed home with hands and heels to beat Victoria Sponge. There should be a race in Breach Of Peace.
I must ask the question: why put a black dot by the name of a horse stating it will only run if the ground is suitable – meaning some rain is required – and when none is forthcoming still run? That is what they did with Ottoman Empire in the maiden. Having finished second to Native Ruler last time, a maiden was his for the taking. Not this one however, as he failed to stride out on the ground and was eventually eased right down. The race, a scrappy looking contest, went to Gripsholm Castle from Flame Of Gibraltar – two Henry Cecil fillies.
Seeking The Buck returned from a two year absence to skate away with the Class 3 Handicap. Kavachi reversed Epsom form with Dona Alba – which he was not entitled to at the weights – with Mega Watt a fair third considering this was his first run of the season. Dona Alba was a disappointing fourth having held every chance.
One-time Derby possible Four Winds opened his account for the season in the Conditions Stakes. It was not plain sailing on ground that may have been fast enough and over a trip possibly short of his best. He gave every impression that he stayed ten furlongs at Newbury and maybe that is the trip he will return to when we next see him.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 13th:
YORK HORSE RACING RESULTS
Quite a decent selection assembled for the Class 2 Handicap for this first race since completion of drainage work after the Ebor meeting. Run over the Magnet Cup trip of an extended ten furlongs, it featured the reappearance of the imposing Stone Of Scone after an impressive Nottingham win, Moonquake, another fine example and Checklow. Slam looked well but the well-backed Meethaaq was a shade edgy. It was hard to narrow paddock inspection down to one. Stone Of Scone would win most rosettes by virtue of his sheer size but, maybe Moonquake tipped it for me. Road To Love made the running with a too keen Slam pressing him and predictably dropping away down the straight. Moonquake took it up from a prominent position three out. He sustained his gallop in strong fashion with Checklow given every chance in second. Stone Of Scone finished from the back to take third, completing a decent line-up in the first three places. Albaqaa was fourth. Rose Street merits a mention in fifth. Looking in need of the run, this big filly will have her day. Moonquake, a quality colt, has not always held his form. A powerful sort, he should make a better four-year-old now he has filled his frame. Checklow is not entirely convincing. He seemed to hang fire but that may have been the strong wind. He saw his race out without looking likely to make a fight of it with the winner. Stone Of Scone is a horse his stable are keen to look after. After a setback last year, and bearing in mind this was only his fourth run, he has done well considering he was ridden from the rear whereas all the action was taking place up front.
The Class 2 Handicap over seven furlongs for three-year-olds produced a good victory for Brief Encounter who took the eye on soft ground at Newbury when only just behind recent Chester winner Fareer. Caught at the back of the field then switched, Brief Encounter responded to a vigorous ride having given the impression he was thinking about it at one stage. Once in the clear, he stretched and collared dead-heaters Photographic and Hartley almost on the line. This was a big performance from a mark of 83 against strong opposition. Lightly raced, it is reasonable to assume he can progress. This ground – firm and drying all the time – seems ideal. Photographic did not look comfortable on the ground. Although she coped better than on the undulations of Newmarket, she really needs to race on an easier surface. She is all heart and there is a big race in her when conditions suit. Hartley does not look attractively weighted at present and this will not help. Satwa Laird was another to perform well on his first run of the season in fourth. Tartan Gunna led the next group with a break back to Ishe Mac, whose defeat of odds-on Palacefield last time does not seem such a surprise after this prominent showing in such a handicap from a rating of 81. Enact was an on-course drifter, started slowly and never landed a blow. Her form looks shaky and she may be better over six.
MUSIDORA STAKES (Group 3): On only her third start, Sariska, after a nightmare passage in the Fred Darling and over a trip more in keeping with her pedigree, put herself on course for the Oaks with a taking victory. A big, heavy-topped filly but a great mover, she handled fast ground but will always be better with some give. Always travelling, she loomed up to Star Ruby two out before edging on. An imposing sort, she won in a workman-like manner having threatened to draw right away. However, she has the look of a filly with more to give. She took a long time to pull up. Her form behind Super Sleuth at Newbury puts her on the periphery of top class form and with the likelihood we have yet to see the best of her, her promotion to the head of the Oaks betting is understandable. She is another success for Pivotal. Star Ruby kept on in dogged fashion, although she is unlikely to trouble the winner if they meet again. Even so this represents improvement after winning a Sandown maiden, beating Hidden Brief who did not advertise the form at Chester last week. Enticement had beaten Super Sleuth at two (although Super Sleuth has improved since) and did not run badly in third. She was having her first run of the season – one it appeared she just needed. Getting a little warm beforehand, she will improve for this and could be a Ribblesdale candidate. High Heeled was never travelling on this faster ground. She is a small filly that handled the soft at Newbury, but today was exposed as being below Classic standard.
DUKE OF YORK STAKES (Group 2): A race run at a blistering pace considering the headwind. Talk of the winner, Utmost Respect, being as good on this ground as he is on soft may be premature. A strong son of Danetime, the breakneck way the race was run played to his strengths and he was able to come from a fast pace and strike close home. This was a fine piece of riding from Paul Hanagan, but surely Utmost Respect will always be best on a softer surface. Some of these were victims of the frenetic early pace and several were noted pulling back the leaders inside the last furlong. Most notably, King’s Apostle who has run far and away his best race – sweeping fast and late to snatch second. The ever-consistent Tax Free was in the front line throughout and kept fighting to hold on to third. Strike The Deal was off the bridle at halfway but kept finding. He lost third place close home but has run well. Rock Of Rochelle surely wants further when conditions are this fast but stayed on in the last furlong having been burnt off at halfway. Captain Gerrard injected pace when dashing into the lead over two out but he is a five-furlong horse and wants dropping back to that trip. This will have blown away the cobwebs. Equiano is not a model of consistency and found the way the race unfolded against him. He may do better held up. Duff was in the van throughout, whilst for the second time Hatta Fort took the eye. Behind early and possibly outpaced, he was another to creep closer after the race had slipped away. A big handicap could be within his grasp – possibly the Wokingham.
Class 4 Handicap: This was not one of the strong handicaps of the week. William Buick, scoring a double on the day, popped Spring Jim in front inside the last furlong. Dazzling Light outstayed Serious Impact who looked the winner all the way down the straight. Despite appearing full of running, he failed to pick up in the threatened manner when asked but there was nothing wrong with his attitude. A winner of a Leicester maiden over ten furlongs, this mile-and-a-half found him out. A return to a mile-and-a-quarter will suit. King Fingal came from out of the pack to steal fourth from Cyborg. Richard Hughes could not navigate a course on Overrule – the pair hemmed in behind a wall of horses. This son of Dieses seems in good heart just now and may win next time if dropped a notch.
Fratellino caused an upset in the Class 3 Novice Stakes. The outsider of the field after showing little at Chester last week (was bumped), he bounced out of the stalls and made all. As on debut at Musselburgh, Ventura Cove got going too late. It looks as if an extra furlong will suit. Paradise Dream was a disappointing third. He is still green. He spooked on the way to post and had to be encouraged into the bridle throughout. It is questionable how good this race was.
They were packed like commuters in a rush hour Tube train throughout the final two furlongs of the Class 4 Handicap. As is usual, Frankie Dettori had his mount in the right place. Raaeidd was always poised to pounce and held a narrow lead racing into the final furlong. Then came the stacking-up challengers. Gradually, Barwell Bridge, followed by Union Island , forged ahead leaving the twice-raced Raaeido in third. Bin End was on the heels of the first three in fourth. In fifth, Muraweg advertised the Newmarket race he had finished fourth in won by Perpetually from the fancied Imposing. Eye-catcher of the race was surely Marching Time who finished on top of the first five but was unable to secure a run. Considered well handicapped by his stable there must surely be another day for this son of Sadler’s Wells. He could be the sort for the King George Handicap at Royal Ascot.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 12th:
WARWICK HORSE RACING RESULTS
Quaker Parrot gave another boost to Raine’s Cross when winning the opening maiden. To be fair she had finished eleventh on debut so this win may have little to do with that initial outing.
Standpoint won the Class 5 Maiden despite looking more like a Lipizzaner horse. By Oasis Dream, he hits the ground with legs akimbo. Those he beat, with the exception of the disappointing favourite Roman Glory, had little form but Standpoint has more to offer on easier ground.
BEVERLEY HORSE RACING RESULTS
High Office tried hard to reel in Mons Calpebut could not quite make it. It was eleven lengths back to the third. High Office goes on firm but may need a step up to a mile-and-a-half.
BRIGHTON HORSE RACING RESULTS
They landed a right gamble in the opener with Cleisthenes who won very easily, looking a cut above (gelded so no pun intended) Celestial Dream
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 11th:
WOLVERHAMPTON RACING RESULTS
: In the Class 4 auction for fillies, Diamond Laura did well to hold on in a tight finish with Avonvalley, who had the better form considering Raine’s Cross had beaten her last time. These two put their experience to good use. Above Limits was not far behind in third on her debut and should find a race.
Six Wives got the better of Out The Ring in a rough claimer and although not the type for present owners, Cheveley Park Stud, will make a good buy for someone. Six Wives was taking a major drop in grade after her sixth at Newmarket to Its Alright (form is looking no better than average) and a third to Kings Of Leo at Warwick. Despite being pushed wide and losing a couple of lengths at the turn, she pegged back Out The Ring, who was beaten in a seller last time and was therefore a surprising favourite. It would appear he is not progressing after finishing behind two smart early types in Star Rover at Kempton and Archers Road at Newcastle.
YARMOUTH RACING RESULTS
Kaspirit seems to have improved for her first effort when second to Desert Auction at Folkestone. She knew too much for the newcomer Danzoe and Shibhan – another making her debut – in the auction.
The well-backed Duchess Of Doom was not helped by a wide draw in the Class 6 Handicap. Ocean Counties landed a little gamble. Conversely, she had the favoured high draw. This was one of those handicaps cluttered with horses with little to recommend them. Bussell Along was third, ahead of Kings On The Roof.
Ithbaat had little to beat in the maiden. A hard puller here last time when behind Hyades, he settled better before being rousted to go about his work. He could be a slow-learner and develop into the sort to improve greatly on this in time.
Beaten thirty-five lengths last time in a Kempton handicap when odds-on and all the rage, lightly-raced Cadre beat some better fancied rivals in the Class 3 Handicap from what looked a harsh mark of 86. Tartan Gigha and Saltagioo were ahead of Godolphin’s Abu Dhabi winner, Stalking Shadow, in fourth.
Earlsmedic seems suited by undulating tracks. A dual-winner at Newmarket’s July course and once at Hamilton, he added Yarmouth to his list of winning courses. Fairly treated from 80 in the Class 4 Handicap, he may win again. Mut’ab almost grabbed the spoils but ran in snatches, although finally knuckled down for pressure. Today’s six is probably his trip. If we could rely on him reproducing this form, the ability is there. As it is, what rests between his ears seems his biggest handicap.
The last time we saw the Falbrav colt, Falcativ, he was completing an all-weather double with a win at Lingfield in October. Today, he opened his account on turf in good style in the Class 3 Handicap from a mark of 86. Not fully wound up, there is every chance this fluent mover will win again, particularly on this fast ground.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS
Crown, only a midget in comparison with the big grey colt Red Avalanche, seems to be going the right way. By Royal Applause, fast ground suits her and whilst the Verglas colt was rolling on the surface, Crown was able to run straight as an arrow to beat him in the class 4 novice. Plans to take in the Queen Mary seem ambitious. Art Jewel has the off-putting habit of swishing her tail.
Ordnance Row is a real professional and won the Listed Race for the second year running. The impression has always been he is better with cut, but on recent evidence, he seems adaptable. The extremely affable Mr Hannon senior was in top form. Having pencilled in the Queen Mary for Crown, he now sees the Eclipse as a target for Ordnance Row. No chance of a libation or two having passed your lips I suppose Richard! Pinpoint was a satisfactory second on his return to action on ground also on the quick side. Icesolator, another that would probably prefer a more forgiving surface, was a close up third. This was a good effort from the three-year-old. Third in the Greenham to Vocalised, he becomes the first from the race to frank the form. Laa Rayb failed to act on the track and was ill at ease on such fast ground.
Times Up may not have won the 1m 2f maiden but in finishing a staying on second to 72-rated Featherweight, has done his future prospects in a handicap no harm. A promising second at Newmarket last year when finishing in front of Legislate, he is another run away from a mark. Should he fail to win next time, or scramble home over a mile let us say at Wolverhampton, a mark in the mid-seventies would make him very interesting over a mile-and-a-half.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 10th:
LONGCHAMP RACING RESULTS
POULE d’ESSAI des POULAINS (Group 1): Silver Frost maintained an unbeaten record for the year with his third and most important win in this French equivalent of the 2,000 Guineas. There are no teasing questions about this horse’s participation at Epsom, or indeed in the French Derby at Chantilly as he is bred to be a miler. This was a clear-cut victory under a confident Soumillon ride. Held up, Silver Frost was produced with a wide run to mow down the opposition and establish himself as an improving colt that travels well and can quicken. This ground suited his action and he won with something in hand. Le Havre confirmed his beating of Naaqoos was no fluke by again finishing in front of that rival in second. As this is only the fifth run of his career and an otherwise unblemished record was halted by heavy ground in a Group 1 as a juvenile at Saint-Cloud, he is clearly another improving three-year-old. Naaqoos was third but demoted to sixth place in one of those decisions only the French can make. He looks a tricky ride, was pulling early and his erratic behaviour did cause problems to his rivals. Promoted from fourth to third, Westphalia was the major beneficiary. Westphalia was second to Silver Frost last month, but with that vital turn of foot absent at this level, this would seem as good as he is. Then came Oiseau de Feu. Essentially, this race worked out pretty much to the blueprint from a French point of view. Vocalised failed to capitalise on his three successes this year, running well below form; Shaweel, behind Vocalised at Newbury, was seventh.
OULE d’ESSAI des POULICHES (Group 1): Another victory for the French in what looked like a strong renewal of their equivalent of the 1,000 Guineas. One of the features of French racing is the consistency of their animals. Elusive Wave, beaten only once in five attempts, and then in a dodgy-looking Marcel Boussac when Proportional was granted the run of the race, returned to her best. Back on decent ground, this daughter of Elusive City reversed placings with Proportional, who was only fourth, winning from stable mate Tamazirte and the much-heralded Fantasia. Connections may be tempted to cross the channel for the Coronation with Elusive Wave providing the ground is suitable. Fantasia missed a beat at the start but was soon in second place, perfectly poised to strike if good enough. She failed to pick up and soldiered on to hold third. Either some very good judges are wrong or this was not her running. Of course her Nell Gwyn success looked exciting but was achieved against inferior opposition. The big question for her connections is where to go next. Do they persevere at this trip and try the Coronation, or sail uncharted waters and target the Oaks? Of course, there is always the middle route in the Prix Diane over an extended mile-and-a-quarter. The trouble is this run told us little. Yes, she was staying on over a mile. No, she lacked the turn of foot to win. Events may prove she is better than this – her overall form suggests not.
PRIX de SAINT-GEORGES (Group 3): It was a busy day for the French stewards who threw out all-the-way winner Inxile, demoting him to third. As interference was deemed to have taken place, a 105-rated horse in this country called Mood Music was awarded the race. Last seen here when ninth at Lingfield to Argani and Judd Street, Mood Music is trained in Germany, has run in Dubai, but nothing so far achieved suggested he was up to a race of this nature. Benbaun, a seasoned and successful traveller, was placed second ahead of Inxile. Now six and after a couple of reversals, Marchand D’Or may have lost some of his edge.
LEOPARDSTOWN RACING RESULTS
Dixie Music won the maiden nicely and is a name to remember.
DERRINSTOWN STUD DERBY TRIAL: Fame And Glory is beginning to build up a head of steam for Epsom. He followed up his win in the Ballysax with an even more taking success here, beating Mourayan by five lengths and conceding 3lbs. Although not a reliable yardstick so far down the line, Mourayan was only half-a-length behind Sea The Stars last year. The way Fame And Glory quickened from fourth place to take the lead down the straight confirms he is a live and serious Derby horse. He is a Montjeu and did flash his tail when handed a smack. Perhaps he thought it superfluous. He will stay the Derby trip and has been promoted to favouritism for the race in most lists. He created a big impression last time and built on it here. Hail Caesar remains of interest. No Derby horse, he is capable of winning a decent prize, particularly when stepped up in trip. He has a likeable attitude and it would be no surprise to see him at Royal Ascot.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 9th:
ASCOT RACING RESULTS
BUCKHOUNDS STAKES (Listed):
A race that provided a big step up in class for Duncan, which he took in his stride after winning the City and Suburban from a mark of 99. He is a most attractive son of Dalakhani that in the words of his trainer has only now matured and become the complete article. Keen early without being foolish, he did take a hold despite a keen clip set by Zaham, but loomed larger than a pantechnicon in the rear view mirror two out to take the lead without a question being asked. He won comfortably and an engagement in the Hardwicke at the Royal meeting would not seem out of place. He is improving at a rate of knots. Starfala squeezed into second, but in truth the rest were taking part in a separate contest. Steel Tango was pipped for second; this was his third decent effort and he deserves a change of luck. The penalty always threatened to beat Charlie Farnsbarns who has run to form with the third.
Good Again was always moving smoothly in the Class 2 Bovis Handicap. She got to the leaders without Eddie Ahern moving and whilst all around were being urged, hit the front to score decisively. A very consistent filly, she had finished fourth to the progressive Photographic and Shampagne at Newmarket last week. Obviously, this win from a mark of 85 pays those two a compliment and underlines the strength of that event. According to her jockey, Newmarket did not suit her and she was much better on this flatter track. This is Good Again’s second win here. In-foal Secret Night was second, ahead of Trumpet Lily and the hard-pulling pacesetting Feeling Fab. Superverdi lined up as a warm favourite. She did bang her head on the stalls and possibly a disappointing run can be excused.
VICTORIA CUP HANDICAP (Class 2): This was a typical early season handicap run on fast ground. It went to Swift Gift, a horse that had been trying all last year at this sort of level and coming up short. With a maiden at Wolverhampton in 2007 to his name, he did not seem an ideal candidate for this but some narrow misses in good company made him a contender for the faithful. Nezami was second ahead of the fully exposed Dhular Dhar, a regular in this sort of event. He is a seven-furlong specialist, but his proximity to the first two from a totally exposed mark of 99 does suggest most of these will struggle in races such as this. Signor Peltro has run well enough in fourth on his first attempt of the season. Trafalgar Square is another that arguably should have struggled in this sort of race but still managed fifth. Of the also-rans, Markab may have been flattered as he had the faster strip of ground on the stands’ side to race on for much of the way. Therefore, his position of sixth may be misleading. We’ll Come did better than might have been expected on this ground – Blue Sky Basin is too high in the weights, Aeroplane needs a small field, Evens And Odds probably needs to return to six and Arabian Spirit could not act on ground this quick.
Little Perisher has not stopped improving and his victory in the Class 3 Maiden was further proof of the advantage juveniles with experience have, especially over five furlongs. For one beaten at Brighton, this was a fair performance to win at Ascot.
Absolute Magic, an early foal, did best of the unraced contingent to finish second ahead of Monsieur Joe who had been second at Windsor to Be Invincible. Key Art shaped with some promise but as a race, this was nothing special.
Striking Spirit became another success for Dandy Nicholls in the Class 3 Handicap. He has a secret with cast-offs. Whatever it is, it is certainly effective. Jimmy Styles made a bold attempt to peg him back but was always fighting a losing battle against a horse that had secured first run.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS
Seek N’ Destroy, with a 4lbs turnaround with Laudatory for a ¾ length beating [not 6lbs as was claimed by Michael Hills and Nick Luck] made it count. A strong big son of Exceed And Excel, racing close to the rail he made all. The rail is a big help here on turf (it was noticeable yesterday). Acquiesced and Kaabari were second and third. Laudatory did not get the best of runs, having been drawn widest of all. Tucked in, Adam Kirby had to chart a convoluted passage and when finally in the clear, the race was as good as over. He would not have won so a mark of 83 looks an accurate one.
OAKS TRIAL STAKES (Listed Race): Midday was the best filly here, particularly after her second to Derby aspirant Debussy. The niggle was, being by Oasis Dream, whether she would stay just short of the full Oaks distance. She got the trip well, looked full of running throughout and having handled Epsom, was equally at home round here. Not a big filly but a neat and athletic one, she ran out an emphatic winner. She did not beat true Classic fillies but trounced those pitched against her. July Jasmine – winner of a Leicester maiden – was second and to be fair made ground from an unpromising position. Tottie was a run-of-the-mill third. After Debussy’s effort this week at Chester, Midday is well worth her place in the Oaks where she would have every chance of reaching a place.
DERBY TRIAL STAKES (Group 3): It was not plain sailing for the tall but slightly unfurnished Age Of Aquarius here; but despite looking as if the run would pull him together and failing to act round the final bend, he dug deep when two major dangers appeared. First Montaff then Father Time laid down big challenges – Montaff led at one point – but Age Of Aquarius responded to gain a hard fought victory. He is worth more than the official margin as he did give away several lengths on the turn. Representing Group 1 form last autumn, he looks the sort to improve as the season progresses. He should stay further. Montaff is hard to weigh up, but Father Time looks as if he is heading in the right direction.
There was nine lengths between first and last in the Group 3 for fillies, one of the weakest events of its type in the calendar. The winner was rated 95 in Ireland and had won just two ordinary races coming into this. San Sicharia, got the better of a similar animal in Baileys Cacao with Please Ring in third. They finished in a heap in behind, headed by Royal Confidence.
Highland Glen was a facile winner of the Class 5 Maiden. He did not act that well on the track but was much too good for opposition that looks likely to be jumping eight flights before long. Once in the straight, the winner pulled away. He stays well and if he does progress, it will be in that field.
Unnefer completed a satisfactory day for the Henry Cecil team when winning the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. There had been a doubt about his participation on account of the ground but, a winner on this sort of surface, that reasoning was hard to fathom. A recent second to Staying On put him at a considerable advantage against the likes of Halicarnassus and he duly won with the authority the form book suggested was appropriate.
HAYDOCK RACING RESULTS
Dual Dubai winner, City Style did not look comfortable on the fast ground in the Listed Race won by Beacon Lodge. He was staying on in awkward fashion in third, appearing to feel the ground. Even so, against older horse and with a 4lbs penalty, it was not a bad run. Ordnance Row was second.
Kingdom Of Light, second to Mister Manannan on debut, won the first six-furlong event in this country. Step In Time, a late April foal, ran with promise in second. Our Dream Queen, a small filly against the colts, was treading water throughout the last two furlongs. Her debut at Newbury was on easy ground and as she is by Oasis Dream, she may have found this surface too lively. The second division did not look as good. They formed a line a furlong out and appeared to be going up and down in the same place throughout the last furlong. Pycian won but the form is questionable.
Royal Rock looked useful once set in motion in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes when the rest were soon playing for places. Abraham Lincoln and Zidane came out the best of a funny old collection of horses either returning from long absences or trying a new trip.
Bouvardia appreciated the return to six furlongs at Nottingham. She rolled about on the ground but as another Oasis Dream that can be forgiven. This looks to be her trip.
Wild Rhubarb beat some slow opponents at Warwick but clearly stays well.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 8th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
A fiercely competitive Class 2 Handicap started the day. Celtic Sultan, who looked well and operates here, towed them along until Fathsta rushed up to challenge and pass him early in the straight. Once headed, he lacked his competitive edge but did not drop away completely, finishing on the heels of the leaders. Celtic Sultan probably needs easier targets these days. Mister Hardy, on a current roll, swept wide with his turn of foot to land this opening event for favourite backers. Opus Maximus stayed on for second ahead of Fathsta, Kings Point and Internationaldebut.
DEE STAKES (Group 3): Drumbeat had all the qualifications to win this. Second to Redwood at Newmarket, to Fame And Glory at Saint-Cloud, and fourth behind Soul City, Gen Amhras and Intense Focus at the Curragh, he brought all the right ingredients to the table. In the main, he was facing rivals representing maiden form. Unsurprisingly Drumbeat carried the support of Ballydoyle. Possibly he was unlucky, but the head went in the air two out in typical Montjeu style. Under pressure, Drumbeat did rattle home strongly but in a four-way finish it was not enough. He is obviously behind the best his yard has to offer. South Easter, unheard of when Drumbeat was making a name for himself as a juvenile, improved markedly on a Newbury debut on soft ground behind Border Patrol on Greenham day. A son of Galileo, this surface was more up his street, but a win in a Group 3 speaks volumes for the improvement South Easter has made. In a finish that could have gone one of three-ways, Gitano Hernando wriggled up the inner without quite getting there. Then came the luckless Drumbeat with the strapping Deposer a surprising fourth. Libel Law and Big Bound were left behind when the pace increased. Devotion To Duty (much fitter today than at Newmarket) flopped out of the stalls, did not act on the track and found the ground too firm. Unsurprisingly he was a well-beaten last. Excuses aside, so far he is all talk. With only Native Ruler winning a soft target at Pontefract, the Newmarket maiden he finished fourth in is not living up to expectations.
ORMONDE STAKES (Group 3): With no rain, a field of eight was stripped to only three. Once again, Ballydoyle fielded the favourite, this time in Frozen Fire. Another Montjeu with a chequered history and best form on easier ground, he faced two pretenders that were scaling the heights but were not Irish Derby winners. With no pacemaker in the field, they walked for the first three furlongs. At one point, Richard Hughes, determined not to lead, actually trotted on Scintillo and it was left to William Buick to make it on Buccellati. Cleverly ridden, Buccellati stayed there. A slow pace was never going to suit Frozen Fire who was last of the three throughout. The way the race was run seemed likely to suit Scintillo, but on the sprint from the turn he was unable to reel in Buccellati. It is worth emphasising that Buccellati ran an excellent third to Tartan Bearer and Pipedreamer when trying to concede 3lbs last time. Versatile as regards trip and ground, he will have to be taken seriously from here on. Scintillo had every chance but with so much apparently in his favour, found disappointingly little. For form purposes, forget Frozen Fire’s run, but his attitude leaves something to be desired and he would not be on my shortlist.
City Dancer was back against her own generation in the Class 2 Handicap after a fine run at Musselburgh against top class older sprinters. She had the draw but a slow start meant she gave it away. Last to load and awkward for a moment, as is often the case under such circumstances she was not focused as the gates opened. Amongst the tail-enders turning for home she powered to the line, delivering a challenge inside the last furlong she could not sustain. Having handed her rivals two or three lengths over a five-furlong dash before a defeat of less than a length, it is tempting to think she should have won. However, connections of the well-backed Doctor Parkes are adamant they won with something in hand and their charge would have prevailed in any case. Low numbers dominated as Doctor Parkes from one and Noble Storm, a fast starter that was able to cut across, were the two to beat her. The first three were clear of Saif Al Fahad, making this look strong form.
Balaagha defied her draw to win the Class 4 Maiden. She is something of a hothead, but was in a race lacking in depth that looked tailor-made. Last to hack to post, dropped in during the race and produced on the outside, she was too good for tame opposition. Miss Tango Hotel was second, La Marseillaise third. It is a struggle to make too much of this. The winner will not get away with such antics against stronger company.
Up to now it had not been Johnny Murtagh’s meeting. That is the way of it at Chester. It has not been mine either! Richard Hughes all but stole the final event – the Class 4 Handicap – with a winning move before the turn when dashing Red Merlin into a lead. It looked as if he held on but to the astonishment of all Murtagh had forced Empowered up to dead-heat. Empowered was attempting a mile-and-a-half for the first time. He has the look of a sprinter, is by Fasilyev, and only the fact he is trained by the ultra-shrewd William Haggas suggested he would stay. Already a winner of two ten-furlong events, he has already exceeded pedigree limitations. The stamina comes from the distaff side. A winner of an apprentice handicap six days’ ago, Empowered escaped a penalty but will be reassessed after winning this ordinary event, but under the circumstances, winning it with a little to spare.
NOTTINGHAM RACING RESULTS:
The first three home in the Median Auction on this fast ground were all by dirt stallions. The imposing Devil You Know has developed into a fine well-grown three-year-old. By Elusive City, he won with something in hand, was backed to do so, and looks a likely candidate for a handicap. Runner-up was Trading Nation, by Tiznow. He finished strongly over this six and an extra furlong may suit. Another Elusive City, the unraced Tagseed, was third and makes up a trio of horses likely to pay their way in future engagements.
Habaayib took her time to get on top when taking the Class 5 Maiden Fillies’ Stakes but when the penny dropped she cruised away. At odds of 1/4 she only did what she was entitled to but will have learned from the experience. Third to Its Alright at Newmarket, by all accounts she had been working with older horses since.
Darley Sun, a big son of Tiger Hill, was impressive in the Class 5 Handicap both in the paddock and in the race. It would appear he has been hiding his light under a bushel. This step up in trip, allied to a mark of 69, gave him every opportunity to shine.
Say No Now was another to win as she liked in the maiden, but she beat little of consequence and had the form to hack up in the manner achieved.
Barynya, at 1/4, the shortest of a clutch of favourites on this card, got turned over in the second division of the fillies’ maiden. This was a bitter blow to all concerned, as she looks so classy. Having shown promise at Newbury in a maiden that may not be as good as it seemed, she failed to quicken once she hit the front. Queen Martha, strongly fancied last time but a filly that showed little, battled back but may have been fortunate to hold on as Kinetix finished like the proverbial missile inside the last furlong. She would have won in another few strides. Excuses for Barynya are thin on the ground. The race was run in a storm, but it would seem unwise to cling to that as if it were a lifeboat.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Demeanour travelled well and looked to have the Class Handicap in the bag until the arrival of Lunar River.
Stargaze looks more of the finished article now and opened his account in the Class 5 Maiden after a couple attempts in stronger company. Last of all at Newbury, he was fourth last time to the useful Raine’s Cross at Bath.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MAY 7th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
The Class 2 Handicap did not look a strong event. Cheshire Prince received the perfect Chester ride, racing in the slipstream of El Dececy and striking for home two out. Clear in the straight, he held on by a diminishing margin ahead of a rapid closer in the shape of Kingdom Of Fife. Possibly the runner-up was unlucky although he looks a complex character. Visored for the first time, he did respond when rousted, taking part in one of those finishes we get round here that could have gone either way. Cheshire Prince was recording his fourth course win. Robby Bobby and Gala Casino Star were the next two. Fanjura appeared to stay on this first attempt at this trip. Never seriously put into the race, he closed in encouraging style when it was all over to finish an eye-catching seventh. Mull Of Dubai seemed reluctant to stride out on ground that was too quick for him.
HUXLEY STAKES (Group 3): Having been the wrong side of two photo finishes so far at this meeting, Ryan Moore lifted Doctor Fremantle to victory in a desperate affair. Staying On has developed into a fine specimen and set off in front, capitalising on his fitness and making it at a searching gallop. Turning for home, he appeared to flag. Having travelled well in fourth place, Doctor Fremantle was shoved wide on the turn, but to his credit battled on to take the advantage a furlong out. Staying On came back at him with a last burst and in the end, headed for a stride, Doctor Fremantle had to pull out all the stops to secure victory. Expresso Star, who was moving better than the winner on the turn, was a close third on ground plenty quick enough and has justified the leap in grade. Fairmile was a close fourth. This was genuine Group 3 form. Possibly Doctor Fremantle will improve for a return to a mile-and-a-half, but he was reported as being very fit today – confirmed by his appearance – so on this showing this is about his level.
CHESTER VASE (Group 3): What we got here was a somewhat farcical outcome. Allowed much too much rope on this fast ground, Golden Sword, ostensively a pacemaker for Masterofthehorse, soon had this field stretched. Not a bad performer in his own right – rated 105 – Golden Sword quickened again with three to race whilst his better-fancied rivals sauntered in arrears assuming he would come back. Such an eventuality looked less and less likely as they allowed the strong-galloping Golden Sword to extend his lead. Finding more turning for home, he was at least three lengths clear as they straightened. At last woken from their slumbers, Messrs Fortune and Murtagh, the biggest culprits, began to get busy. Masterofthehorse closed over a furlong out but it was too little too late. He probably should have won, but all credit to Golden Sword for sustaining his gallop and continuing to answer his rider’s calls. Given his ability to run a field ragged, on similar ground he could be a serious St Leger candidate come September. Debussy would have been involved in a tight tussle if he had been set alight earlier. As it was he kept on for third. On this evidence he has come up short of Group 1 standard, but remains one to keep the right side of. Sight Unseen attempted to give chase but, a winner on gluey ground at Newbury, was not good enough although he lost momentum when Debussy crossed his path a furlong out. Ryan Moore on Saptapadi was riding a horse that plainly looked unhappy on the quick surface, so can be excused for not pushing his mount early when Saptapadi was not striding out. This son of Indian Ridge is a likeable sort that is learning all the time and will do better on easy ground. Above Average was exposed although had a difficult passage. Criticisms of jockeys are easy. In Murtagh and Fortune we are talking about jockeys that make few mistakes. Chester is an oddity of a racecourse that finds man and beast out on a regular basis. They got in wrong today – end of…
Fareer, a fine example of his sire Bahamian Bounty – in that he has made such physical improvement since last year – made light of his task in the Class 2 Handicap. Raised just a pound for a nice reintroduction in a Newbury handicap that is sending out mixed messages, he was happy enough on this ground. When pulled out, he forfeited some ground but there was no danger of him running into trouble. He swept by on the wide outside to beat Tartan Gunna and a slightly unfortunate Foundation Room, who would not have beaten the winner but may have finished second if she had not been messed about when trying for a run. The winner is useful and appeals as the sort to continue to improve. Hunterview wants easy ground and some respite from the handicapper. There is not too much of Resort and she was already retreating when her rider had to snatch her up. She battled gamely to win at Newmarket but faced a tougher task here.
The Class 3 maiden for juveniles looked average. Metal Soldier, a good-sized gelded son of Antonius Pius got the better of two with a run to their credit in Reel Credit Crunch and Swilly Ferry. Neither set a strong standard. Swilly Ferry had run a fair race in the Brocklesby but that was six weeks’ ago, which is a long time for an early two-year-old. It was a mistake to think Archers Road – who has improved since – was an indication of the chance of Swilly Ferry. The Brocklesby winner, Hearts Of Fire, was made to look outclassed at Newmarket and Swilly Ferry’s absence was surely not by design. He had every chance in the race but tired in the last furlong.
It has taken time for Invincible Heart to get off the mark after an excellent debut run at Newmarket as a juvenile. This was his ninth attempt and his first in a handicap. On his second to Infaraad at Newmarket last time, with Euston Square and Invisible Man third and fourth, he appeared to be well in from a mark of 86. However, that did not tell the whole story if put into context of his overall form. Drawn one and back over six furlongs, he was quick to start, nudged into an instant lead by Jamie Spencer and strode clear down the straight. This is his trip. Aakef lost the race at the first bend when pushed wide, but it could be he is better at five in any case.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
Third to the very useful Crown Choice at Kempton, Eastern Empire was sent on at the right time by Richard Hughes to poach a winning advantage in the Class 5 Maiden. The heavily backed Jesse James, representing John Gosden in a race he likes to win – Pipedreamer won this before going on to greater glory – once again disappointed his supporters. Possibly given an over-confident ride, he was pulled out to challenge and made headway without looking likely to cut the winner down. He is becoming expensive to follow; clearly, a maiden will come his way but making excuses on a regular basis for him may be unwise. Maria Nunziata ran well enough for a debutant in third.
The attempt to strike while the iron is hot with Star Rover narrowly failed, but although third of four in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes, he went down fighting, beaten just over half a length. Involved in a scrap with Grand Zafeen early, they were battling it out inside the last when Hughes delivered Desert Auction up the rail to burgle the race from the pair of them. This was an improved showing from the winner, who broke his duck at Folkestone, but the Hannon team warned us that he was the type to improve as the season developed.
Sterling Sound may be capable of improving on her third in the Class 4 Handicap for fillies. With the pace slow, she was in the unenviable position of racing in last place until it quickened and her rider could manoeuvre her into the clear. For a moment she looked like getting there, but her run flattened out inside the last furlong. Under the circumstances, she did well to grab third behind Charlotte Point.
Tactic was entitled to win the Class 5 Maiden on his Newbury second to Sight Unseen. When produced he quickened to win with something in hand. His two-year-old form was solid and he should find a handicap or two. Gibb River raced as he did when in arrears at Newbury, dropping back then running on again. This time he finished closer to Tactic and he appeals as the type to continue to improve. Still on the leg but attractive, he should get better as the season progresses and looks like a stayer in the making. Although Time Machine had finished second over ten furlongs at Yarmouth on his sole effort last month, this trip seemed beyond him as he faded in fourth.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
Existentialist demonstrated the value of the rail when winning the fillies’ maiden. A late foal, her form with Azif and Diamond Laura meant she would be hard to beat unless she bumped into anything out of the ordinary. Money for the runner-up, Bell’s Ocean, should be recovered as long as her sights are restricted to this level.
Folio is on a winning mark just now but this ground was too lively and he could never land a blow in the Class 4 handicap. Even allowing for his age, he is worth keeping in mind at a track like this when the rains come. Richard Hughes, a jockey in fine form at present, gave the long-standing maiden Special Reserve a great ride to land the prize.
Talk of Cawdor being anything other than a handicapper seems wide of the mark. Presumably he works well at home but, on this his fifth attempt, and from a mark of 75 in a Class 5 handicap, his failure to win tells its own story. Yes, he wants easier ground and possibly a seventh furlong. He may come into his own in the autumn. The race was won by Gilt Edge Girl, a filly ahead of the handicapper for now.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MAY 6th:
CHESTER RACING RESULTS:
LILY AGNES CONDITIONS STAKES: This was all about speed from the moment the stalls opened. Star Rover flashed out, taking a fierce hold, towing Archers Road in his wake. These two had plenty of experience so knew what they were doing, soon putting their rivals to the sword. Star Rover had a nine-pound penalty to shoulder but as when conceding the best part of a stone to Chicita Banana the weight was not a problem. Blazing throughout and taking a fierce hold, he just held the persistent challenge of Archers Road. These were the two form horses and had proved they could cope with the big occasion. Opposing them will pay off sometime in the near future, but right now getting them overturned is difficult. Nothing else got into the contest. Tom Folan and Goodbye Earl were outsiders with little claim to a race of this sort and were next to finish. The favourite, Mijas Playa, was keen on the way to post and was another taken off her feet, although her supporters may claim she might have finished closer but for a tardy start and an incident over a furlong out. The bitter disappointment was Kings Of Leo who looked really well but perhaps this, her third run within a week, was asking too much. She fly jumped on exit from the stalls but was never able to cope with the fast pace.
CHESHIRE OAKS: (Listed Race): This did not look a strong renewal. Perfect Truth led from the start and made it at a keen clip. By Galileo out of a Darshaan mare, she stays and with a long easy stride found her opponents out one by one. Mystical Spirit was soon tailed-off; Hazy Dancer, by Oasis Dream, was never able to use her stride on this ground. Simple Solution was the next to drop away, leaving Hidden Brief, Phillipina and Roses For The Lady to give chase. Only Phillipina came out of the pack and with Perfect Truth tiring inside the last furlong, was gradually getting there. This was a good show from a filly raised in grade; she would have won in another stride. Backed for the Oaks, she may not be up to that but races await. Perfect Stride’s giant stride understandably shortened inside the final furlong, but she broke the track record. It would appear the trip and ground has made all the difference as she was able to reverse earlier Irish form with Roses For The Lady. It is early days to write off Hidden Brief, who looked as if she failed to stay.
CHESTER CUP: (Class 2): Daraahem was always prominent and in the right place in a race where several had to overcome obstacles to challenge. Never worse than fourth, this gelded son of Act One, a winner at this meeting last year, stuck it out once in front. Tom Queally nursed Ajaan, a tricky but talented customer, before snaking out of the pack. It looked long odds-on that he would win, but Ajaan does not respond for vigorous riding and Queally had to suffer as he closed without throwing the works at his mount. With rail-runner Daraahem staying on strongly, Ajaan narrowly failed to land something of a gamble. Halla San and Desert Sea were third and fourth. Amerigo was last-but-one seven out but weaved his way through to finish with something in hand. The breaks did not materialise when wanted. Something like the Ascot Stakes should suit him admirably. Inchnadamph ran extremely well for a nine-year-old in sixth. He really wants easier ground and opportunities may be thin on the ground. One of those long-distance affairs at Pontefract may suit. The seventh, Downhiller, handles this fast ground but runs as if he will be better with some cut.
The Class 2 five-furlong sprint was all about those drawn low. Strike Up The Band hit the gates as usual and blazed from his one spot. A furlong out it was clear Sohraab had him within his sights and only had to be pushed out to score. The winner is versatile as far as the ground is concerned, having finished an excellent second to Chief Editor at Newbury in the soft last time. Angus Newz was third. The draw thwarted several. Elhamri almost ran off the track on the turn. Green Manalishi responded to pressure but was always clutching at the coat tails of the leaders. An Tadh on the other hand, drawn eleven and racing in second-last place after a furlong, freewheeled through the field without Johnny Murtagh getting serious as there was simply no point. An Tadh finished strongly in seventh and is handicapped to win a decent prize over here if sent on a retrieval mission.
The Class 3 Handicap for three-year-olds produced a difficult to assess winner beforehand in Braveheart Move after a narrow but comfy success in a Wolverhampton maiden in September. Someone knew, as there was money for Sir Mark Prescott’s son of Cape Cross from a stable that had also entered recent Lingfield winner Fortuni – a non-runner. That allowed his stable companion to strut his stuff. And strut he did. This was a strong-looking handicap that, from a mark of 78, Braveheart Move was able to win with some authority despite the apparent narrow margin. He looks capable of improving. Frankie Dettori provided a stop-go gallop on Quai D’Orsay, another with little representative juvenile form. He stuck on well. Jedi is gradually ascending the ranks. On this evidence, this son of Pivotal will appreciate some cut but at least we know he stays. He kept on strongly after momentarily being outpaced four out. A half brother to Hi Calypso, he has complimented the Aqwaal, Polly’s Mark form from Sandown, which also encompasses Three Moons. He should be on the mark next time. Kings Destiny was fourth, his cause not helped by racing on the wide outside. Even so this run represents a plateau of the form from Leicester. Despite being worse off at the weights since his recent win, Headline Act was less than a length behind Kings Destiny this time indicating he is improving. The run of Citizenship in fourth was a head scratcher but they did finish in a bunch behind the first three.
The Class 4 Maiden looked a quality maiden. Won last year by Daraahem, this year’s selection set a decent standard. Wood Ditton form was represented by the fancied Harbinger, whilst Calypso Bay had looked useful when hunting up Sopranist and Native Ruler at Newmarket. With the addition of Asateer and the Aidan O’Brien representative Changingtheguard the recipe was complete. Ryan Moore, who had Harbinger across from a wide draw early, gave this big son of Dansili every chance. Confidently ridden, Harbinger justified the hype with his big stride and once sent on, settled the issue quickly. He looks useful at worse. Changingtheguard paddled his way out of the gates but warmed to his task as the race progressed. Asateer looked an awkward and uncooperative ride whilst the course put paid to any chance Calypso Bay had. Drawn widest of all, he was given the tuck-in behind route, meaning he was a long way adrift after a couple of furlongs. Swinging wide on the bends as he failed to act on the course, his fate was soon sealed. He is better than this.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MAY 5th:
A poor day and one that was not covered.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MAY 4th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Only seventh to the smart Raine’s Cross at Bath, Avon River was able to put his experience to good use in the Class 4 Maiden Stakes and pay a compliment to the horse that beat him easily on debut. However, it is doubtful whether he will confirm form next time with the runner-up. Paradise Dream, a big and stuffy-looking colt by Kyllachy, will derive significant improvement from this run. Looking short of peak fitness and green as the Amazon, he was unsuited by the way the race unfolded. A two-furlong sprint caught him out to a degree and he will be better when faced with a more even gallop. Although sprint-bred, he looks as if six will suit. He has a future and is one to watch out for. In third, Dream Of Gerontius was also behind Raine’s Cross at Bath. The well-touted Knightfire is a small son of Invincible Spirit that failed to impress in either the paddock or the race. The same can be said of Radio City, another to attract attention that showed little.
Division 1 of the maiden looked a decent affair. Rainbow Peak, a gelded son of Hernando, arrived from another planet to run down the Godolphin-trained Sovereign Remedy, who responded to a vigorous ride on his introduction. Montashem was a decent third, advertising the wellbeing of the Stoute yard. Invisible Man has made little improvement on his Newmarket run in fourth. The one draw was of no help but the step up in trip allied to his lofty reputation should have offset that. So far, his overall profile is unconvincing. El Loco Uno, backed to open his account at Ripon, could manage no better than fifth having travelled strongly until the last two furlongs. The form of the Ripon event is beginning to look shaky. Mared ran with plenty of promise. A fine well-grown colt, he recovered from a slow start to finish nicely and is the one to take from the race.
The second division did not look as good. Uniquely Poised caused something of an upset in beating Sam Sharp – another big-priced contender – with the favourite and now apparently exposed, Big Bay back in third.
Forgotten Voice followed up on his course win last month without the theatrics. Still green, but a striking son of Danehill Dancer, he was confidently ridden by Shane Kelly who switched him from the inner to obtain a trouble-free run. A flick of the stick settled the issue as Forgotten Voice quickened away like a smart colt. Racing from 90 today, he will be inching toward the magical mark of a hundred after this. There is a big race in this fellow. Multakka ran well from the out of form Tregoning yard to take second and should win in his grade before too long. A very taking winner outclassed the rest.
WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:
The win of Crown in the Class 5 maiden says little for those she beat. The second, Tawaabb, should find a race.
Course and distance winner Trans Siberian had his chance in the Class 4, particularly as the ground was in his favour and he was on a winning mark. He made a bold bid to make all and soon had the field strung out, but Martyr caught him inside the last furlong.
A heavily backed Desert Creek won the Class 3 Handicap from what is now obviously a generous handicap mark of 79. There is talk of Royal Ascot but this mark is likely to be significantly adjusted in the immediate future. Emirates Roadshow, the only of today’s contenders backed to beat him, was second. In the light of such strong opposition, conceding weight, Wannabe King was up against it, but after such a good run behind Makaamem at Newbury his finishing position of sixth was disappointing.
The Andrew Balding yard marches on. Once-raced Farleigh got the better of Formula in the maiden with Voortrekker a promising third. The fourth, Nasayem has the ability to win a handicap. After a promising debut, Zouk, although not having the cleanest of runs, has not made the anticipated improvement. The form from his race at Ripon, won by Mister Dee Bee, is looking moderate.
At BEVERLEY, Maidtorun won a keenly contested auction maiden from the newcomer The Hermitage who battled in typical Mark Johnston style. Petrocelli, the recipient of a nice introduction at Leicester behind King’s Approach, set the benchmark but was not quite up to the task.
Kings Of Leo [a filly despite the epithet] seems to have derived plenty from her initial outing at Windsor. She won cosily from Angel Of Fashion [ten lengths behind Walkingonthemoon] and Six Wives, who was certainly not knocked about in third and should be winning before long. Kings Of Leo is likely to take her chance later in the week at Chester – a track that should suit.
Badiat Alzaman had the misfortune to bump into a useful type last time in Leahurst. She made no mistake in the median auction but in fairness the opposition was only average.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MAY 3rd:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS :
Not having watered and without the forecast rain – now, there’s a surprise – the ground promised to be fast. As a result, firm ground specialists, Dansili Dancer and Hatton Flight were the obvious two in the Class 2 Handicap. Dansili Dancer had an 8lbs pull for a length with Hatton Flight that gave him the mathematical advantage. This was a race comprising of horses on first name terms with the handicapper. Nothing appeared to have an obvious edge although the ground was likely to play a major part. Hatton Flight is clearly improving fast as he shrugged off the weight differential to rattle off a hat trick, beating Redesignation and Boz. The latter has run well after a lengthy absence. Dansili Dancer arrived on the scene racing out of the dip, but was unable to find that extra that would have made the difference. For a seven-year-old, there was no disgrace in this. Night Crescendo and Resplendent Light were the next two to finish.
DAHLIA STAKES (Group 3): A disappointing turn out for this with last year’s winner, Heaven Sent, a mare well capable in this grade, apparently gifted an easy opportunity to repeat last year’s success. You can set your watch by this mare; although this may not have been one of her best performances, she was too good for Casilda and the invariably disappointing Barshiba. It is difficult to make too much of this although Casilda is a fine scopey filly, currently rated 90, who made the running and kept on stoutly. We may not have seen the best of her.
1,000 Guineas (Group 1): Rainbow View’s moment of truth: outstanding as a juvenile but a filly having to prove she could transfer that to her second season. Still on the small side, she is strong, looked fit, less worked up than at times and flowed to the start on the fast ground. Serious Attitude looked dull in her coat and as if she had failed to grow from last year. It explained her market drift as no paddock watcher could give her a tick. The giant Devotee and Cuis Ghaire were ponyed to the start. Shimah is a small, neat attractive daughter of Storm Cat. Heart Shaped looked as if she had grown since last year and was very fit. Ghanaati created something of a shock. A filly not seen until September at Kempton where she followed up a third with a maiden win over Laudatory in October, she is a tall good looking filly that became the first Classic winner to make her debut on turf. Always prominent, she quickened out of the dip to hold Cuis Ghaire. Super Sleuth was last to leave the gates and was switched to deliver a late challenge despite looking uncomfortable on the ground. Hers was a fair performance in third. Heart Shaped did well in fourth. She is tough and has made giant physical strides since last season. Fast ground does suit her so it would be unwise to expect much improvement on this. Next came Rainbow View who simply failed to pick up although she stayed on. It was plain she hated the ground on the homeward journey, but she was not the only one that struggled on it. The understandable gamble to give this a go has not paid off. It is almost certain that her dominance over her sex is at an end. Penny’s Gift ran an honest sixth. Of the rest, Serious Attitude failed to stay, as did Shimah. Lahaleeb needs give and Devotee finished a long last. As a Classic, it did not look that strong. The winner is entitled to improve with racing but will struggle to stay further than ten furlongs. The rest are what-you-see-what-you-get fillies.
Seventeen went to post for the Class 2 Handicap over six furlongs after four withdrawals. Morning money for Carleton was understandable after a promising run at Windsor on Monday but he was treading in much deeper waters here. He was one of those that did not take part. The ground sorted out several of these. Countdown and Fullandby were last and next to last on unsuitable ground and their names should have been added to the list of defectors. At the other end, Evens And Odds roared back to form after hinting such an eventuality was likely when third to Palace Moon. This is another triumph for Dandy Nicholls. He has managed to get a tune out of a horse that was a serious under-achiever until switching to his yard. Evens And Odds skated away and obviously, this win pays a significant compliment to Palace Moon. Thebes was a surprising second ahead of Exclamation, who possibly should have finished second but would not have been the winner. Travelling strongly throughout, Exclamation had to be angled for a run and stayed on strongly. Possibly, he wants seven as this is the second time he has produced at the end of his race. Two hard runs in quick succession mean a break is in order. Orpsie Boy was once again close up in fourth.
The newcomers in the Class 2 Maiden were a good-looking selection. All the talk was of Radiohead, an April Johannesburg colt. He fluffed the start, was awkward in the early stages as they kicked up dust as if extras in a Western riding into town from the prairie. A combination of greenness and the fast ground meant it took an age for him to find his stride, but he made up plenty of ground to deliver a strong challenge to the filly, High Spice. Spencer accepted defeat inside the last and Radiohead may have finished sore. High Spice, a strong filly with a dirt pedigree, handled the conditions and dug in when the colt came at her. On this sort of ground, she merits serious consideration in decent company. Radiohead will strip wiser next time and hopefully will emerge unscathed from this experience. Izaaj, an early foal, was third ahead of Ejaab. Once again the ground did not help their causes and they were not knocked about.
PRETTY POLLY STAKES (Listed Race): Two Montjeu fillies, Take The Hint and Three Moons, battled this out. They coped the best on this quick and ever-quickening ground. As a Pivotal, Moneycantbuymelove will do better when she has a little juice to work with, but she ran on well for third ahead of The Miniver Rose. Both fillies consolidated their form at the Craven meeting when behind Nahaam. Golden Stream ticks all the boxes in the parade ring but is still slightly on the leg. She hated this ground and Ryan Moore was quick to ease her down when it was apparent she was going nowhere. She is better than this.
By now it was clear fast ground was having a major effect. Four of the intended runners for the Class 2 Handicap were withdrawn, including the fancied Marching Time. Takaatuf, third in an above average handicap at Leicester won by King’s Destiny that has thrown up a winner and the runner-up in the Esher Cup, made all and found more when tackled by recent gambled-on Beverley winner, Dubai Crest. The winner is a lengthy Dubai Destination colt with plenty of scope who should continue to give a good account of himself.
SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:
The first division of the six-furlong maiden looked the weaker of the two. Romanticize, an unraced Kyllachy filly, was reluctant to load – possibly only one chance away from being taken away – but having got detached early steamrollered home to win going away. Cape Melody was an undistinguished second ahead of George Thisby who was second to Makaamem on debut but unable to run to that form next time. The Desert Saint was a close fourth. In the absence of inspiration, they made the Jeremy Noseda-trained Zip Lock favourite. He showed little, although the stable is not at full strength yet and he did not look at home on the ground. Even so, he was beaten a long way in a poor event.
The second division centred round the Godolphin runner, Hajoum. This son of Exceed and Excel had finished second to recent winner Aakef last year and came here slapping the only rateable form on the table. He looked outstanding and as if he had done plenty of work. Well away, he led two out but the tank emptied quickly and he failed to quicken. Rapid Water, by Anabaa out of Lochsong, lengthened to pass Hajoum. Only small in comparison, the winner has improved markedly on his only start at two when beaten ten lengths at Newmarket. He could be of interest in a handicap. Hajoum looked slow; Hightime Heroine finished nicely under tender handling; Bahkov should win a small handicap on this evidence.
Instalment beat some better-weighted opponents in the Class 2 Handicap from a mark of 99. In a bunched finish, Timeteam and Cheviot were close in second and third, as was Global City in fourth. Squeezed for room inside the last furlong when merely staying on strongly, this was a promising reappearance. Out of a Shirley Heights mare, he should benefit from a step up in trip and could win a decent handicap over seven furlongs – possibly at York in a fortnight’s time.
Kurtanella was far and away the paddock pick in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. A lengthy attractive daughter of Pastoral Pursuits, she was last early but as the field fanned across the field two out, she came to stake a claim. Changing her legs on this fast ground, not handling the track that well, she got the message inside the final furlong to hunt up Lingfield winner Leleyf. She should know more next time when she can be placed to win. Mrs Boss was third.
An expensive failure at Brighton, Brunston made amends in the Class 4 Handicap. Creeping in off bottom weight from a mark of 74 and stepped up to ten furlongs, he beat a moderate bunch headed by Barwell Bridge.
Clowance House made hard work of recording a double for the Charlton stable in the following maiden. Long odds on, he eventually gained the upper hand over Talimos – a debutant from the Beckett yard. Third at Newbury to Sight Unseen and as a juvenile to Your Old Pal, this should have been a cakewalk.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MAY 2nd:
NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:
Suffolk Stakes (Handicap) (Class2): Confront was considered as a possible Classic contender this time last year. In the event, he saw the racecourse only twice: disappointing as favourite for the Greenham followed by only an okay run in a valuable handicap at Great Leighs. Now gelded and back on turf, he defied top weight and a mark of 105 to beat some smart handicappers. Once in flight, he was not stopping and won like the horse he once promised to be. Viva Vettori, fit from two recent runs at Kempton, was a fair second ahead of Kay Gee Be, who has performed well for new handler William Jarvis. As is so often the case, Flipando was unlucky. He probably would not have beaten the winner but had to be switched twice and with this fast surface in his favour, finished strongly. It is early in the afternoon to start making predictions as regards the draw, but on this evidence, the stands’ side is the place to be. Therefore, in fifth, Bazergan has probably run a few pounds above the bare form – which considering his efforts on the all-weather is something of a surprise. King Charles can be marked up on this run as he experienced trouble. Proponent and Foolin Myself were wasting their time on this fast surface.
JOCKEY CLUB STAKES (Group 2) (Class 1): With the defection of All The Aces and the continued sequence of Spanish Moon, putting in one good one bad run – in this case as he refused to enter the stalls it was no run at all – Bronze Canyon beat his two remaining opponents. Spanish Moon obviously ran a cracker in Dubai but this is the third time he has declined to start. This was a valuable win for Bronze Canyon, who will get few easier tasks at this level. Casual Conquest was returning after finishing third in the Epsom Derby and second in the Irish equivalent. Said to be only 80 percent fit by his trainer; nevertheless, he should have won this to justify the high hopes entertained. Plainly, he disliked the ground. There is also the suspicion he may not have stayed this trip. It will require more than a 20 percent improvement to include him in the reckoning for any future Group 1s.
2000 GUINEAS STAKES (Group 1): Those that shone in the paddock were Evasive – who won it at the walk but there was the small matter of the race to consider. He was carrying some condition but he is very powerful. Sea the Stars is a fine big individual; Delegator looked fit, Gan Amhras hard-trained but there is not a lot of him. The O’Brien pair, Mastercraftsman and Rip Van Winkle both got warm. Murtagh took Rip Van Winkle down slowly. Lord Shanakill looks like a sprinter and ran like one. The pace was generous without being frenetic. At the bushes, first Evasive, then Delegator came there very strongly looking likely to win. Evasive blew up big time, fading into sixth. This son of Elusive City has had a well-publicised interrupted preparation and will be a different proposition next time. All his wins have been at seven; it could be that a mile stretches him at present, but that is pure conjecture. Delegator took it up for a few strides but it was Sea The Stars that delivered the lethal challenge to win going away in the style of a genuine Group 1 winner. A half-brother to Galileo, but by Cape Cross, the Derby trip is not a given for him, but he should get at least ten furlongs. At this stage he looks a very good winner of the season’s first Classic. There should be more to come, particularly if he can harness his speed over further. Those supporting him for the Derby are relying on the dam – Urban Sea supplying the stamina influence. Delegator had every chance but the winner had too much speed in the last furlong. This is his trip and as good as he is – which is fair enough one has to say. Gan Amhras ran very well in third considering he was off the bridle a long way out. He kept beavering away, clinging on to third place. He will presumably go to Epsom and is the one from this race that will stay the trip, but he lacks the scope of a couple of those close to him. Rip Van Winkle made up plenty of ground back in fourth. He should stay further; however, like the winner is not guaranteed to get the Derby trip. Whatever the future holds, considering this was only his fourth experience, this was a top class effort and quality races await. Mastercraftsman did get very warm underneath the saddle and it is tempting to think we have seen the best of him. After Evasive came Pure Poetry and Monitor Closely. The rest were out of their depth. So, possibly a Guineas that poses more questions than it answers. We know we have seen at least five good horses. Of those, only Gan Amhras is a definite Derby contender based on stamina. But if they stay, then Sea The Stars and Rip Van Winkle could be exceptional prospects. At present, Irish form looks stronger than the English does.
PALACE HOUSE STAKES (Group 3) (Class 1): Not the best line-up for this sprint, but it was won in tidy fashion by the three-year-old, Amour Propre, a Paris House colt with knee action that suggests this surface is not ideal. He has plenty of speed that enabled him to burst through when meeting the rising ground. Progressive last year, his campaign as a juvenile culminated in a win in the Group 3 Cornwallis Stakes at Ascot. This is not a race to get carried away with. Hoh Hoh Hoh was second with the decent Borderlescott third on ground and over a trip that is not ideal. Strike The Deal made up ground in the closing stages and probably requires at least six. He should win a decent sprint this season. Rievaulx World and Rowe Park were next with King’s Apostle putting in strong work in the closing stages to end up seventh. His was a fair run from his 6lb penalty. The winner will need to better this if he is to clash swords successfully with the likes of Overdose. Chief Editor suffered a fatal heart attack in running.
Infiraad made light of his task in the Class 2 Handicap from a mark of 90. A winner of his maiden at the Craven meeting from Invincible Heart and Euston Square, this was a weak handicap by Newmarket standards, but Infiraad won very easily. Firebet was an honest but outclassed second ahead of Wildcat Wizard. The winner may go on from here but has already put himself in the firing line with a mark that is heading toward the mid-to-high nineties.
Newmarket Stakes (Listed Race): Your Old Pal recovered the sort of form he displayed as a juvenile, leaving a run in the soft at Newbury behind him. He got the better of a protracted struggle up the hill with Palavacini, and it appears this livelier ground has made all the difference to their showing last time. Spring Of Fame ran to form in third, ahead of Close Alliance who made the running before the sprint to the line. Heliodor found disappointingly little having travelled well, whilst Sopranist, who beat Native Ruler at the Craven, has had a touch of sore shins and it showed. Unbalanced and feeling the ground, running him here was questionable. Providing he can recover, he is better than this showing suggests.
By now, the ground was quick. Mistakes as regards runners that should have stayed in their boxes had already been made. As an Oasis Dream, Photographic was at sea on the ground, persistently changing her legs but her class got her through. Running her was a gamble (she has plenty of knee), but it came off. It would be unwise to ask her to handle this kind of ground on a regular basis. Her mark of 84 was generous but will be raised after this. It was a good performance and she is useful. Shampagne and Ave both had their chances and delivered challenges that seemed likely to prevail, but neither could usurp the courageous winner. Akhenaten – another with an action suggesting he wants some ease in the ground – needs to be cut some slack from the handicapper. A mark of 93 is too high, but he should have his day in a handicap when the ground changes.
GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:
A well-backed Mystery Star took his time to get on top in the Class 3 Handicap but ultimately won decisively. A son of Kris Kin, the firm ground was not a problem but a slow pace did not suit. He was forging away at the end in the manner of one that should stay further. Five moderate opponents followed – King Olav narrowly getting the better of Jabal Tariq for second.
Born Tobouggie is making life difficult for herself by insisting on leading. She got away with it last time at Kempton, but in this Listed Race her rivals were alive to her, not allowing her much peace. She made it at a keen pace, handling this tricky course well, but had to fight off the attentions of Scuffle and Perfect Star, That done, as she quickened again over a furlong out, she was a sitting duck for a finisher and this case there were two – Eva’s Request, who swept past, and then Lady Francesca. Born Tobouggie has confirmed Kempton form with Perfect Star and Scuffle, but as predicted after Kempton, she needs to give herself a chance on turf. Eva’s Request is capable on her day, something that is not always easy to predict. Plenty of poor runs punctuate good ones that have occurred most notably at Nad Al Sheba and Ascot. Lady Francesca, a close second to Bothy last time, ought to be breaking her duck before long.
Aye Aye Digby leant on the runner-up, Rash Judgement, impeding him in the last furlong of the Class 4 Handicap. I thought that Rash Judgement was a shade unlucky as he was itching to have a stab at Aye Aye Digby but simply ran out of room.
Di Stefano clearly failed to act on the course and looked ungainly on the fast ground to boot in the Class 5 Maiden. However, even making allowances, he became another disappointment from the Newbury maiden won by Walkingonthemoon. Another major flop was the eventual favourite, Reddy To Star who missed the break. Over the minimum trip on fast ground at Goodwood, that is tantamount to putting a loaded pistol to your head. Presumably, this son of Redback is capable of better. The race did not look that good. It went to Kirsty’s Boy who had been beaten eleven lengths by Star Rover at Kempton. Oil Strike finished fastest of all in second and would have won in another fifty yards. Admin shaped reasonably well in third. An early foal, connections need to find a suitable race as soon as possible.
Devil To Pay landed a gamble in the Class 5 Handicap, taking an age to engage top gear. He was going away in the end and will stay further. It is difficult to know what he beat.
The Class 5 Maiden looked ordinary. It went to Sir Isaac who had finished last of fifteen at Newmarket in August. She struck late to inch out Mabuya and Farncombe. The last-named had finished five lengths behind Danehill’s Pearl in the Bridget Maiden at Newbury. This run is an inconclusive indication of the worth of that race. Perfect Secret turned in a nice introduction in fourth and a small race should be hers for the taking. Defector ran like an idiot. This was his chance but he pulled, lugging his jockey all over the place. This was a silly place to send a great big slab of a thing, but on this evidence, although a flat track will help, he cannot be entertained even if gifted with a ten lengths start next time.
A Class 3 handicap ended the card. Cake, a fast filly on her day, poached the rail and held on to halt a losing run stretching back to August when a two-year-old. Little Pete had caught the eye at Epsom and did so again on this similar track. There is no particular evidence suggesting he needs a downhill dash – his wins having come at Haydock and Kempton. He was getting to Cake in the closing stages, giving the impression that six would suit him better. Rocker was a close third ahead of Elhamri who tends to run one good and three bad.
THIRSK RACING RESULTS:
Two poor events opened the card. Here Now And Why beat two potential platers that were off the bridle by halfway and never looked likely to cause the winner the slightest trouble.
The maiden for older horses was little better but at least contained more than three runners. Lasso The Moon threw it away by wandering about and failing to knuckle down when challenged. Haljaferia took advantage but some moderate rivals were stacked up close behind.
It was clear that the strongly-fancied Palacefield was struggling from some way out in the Class 4 Maiden. Second to Negotiation at Yarmouth, he ran below that form when coming off second best in a close tussle with Ishe Mac. Fantasy Land in third ran a lot better than when supported at Newbury in the Bridget Maiden.
The win of Flawed Genuis in the Thirsk Hunt Cup may have something to do with the re-application of a tongue-tie. Tricky but talented, he was on his best behaviour to squeeze through a gap and beat Webbow, Bencoolen and Majuro.
Little else was noted at the meeting. Mandurah broke with tradition, winning the sprint from the far side. Hysterical Lady strung out her rivals in the Class 5 Handicap. As a lightly raced filly, she may be capable of following up.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS:
We can safely label Lees Anthem as a nutter. Not without ability, he crashed through the rails when mounting a challenge on his debut at Newcastle and having hit the front in the maiden tonight, curled up and again wobbled all over the place like a drunken sailor, meaning his jockey could only cling on for dear life. Maybe Lees Anthem has a heart problem; whatever, he is not a horse to place any faith in. He is likely to be gelded then disappear from the radar. Assuming he avoids ending up on a plate somewhere on the continent, he is likely to change hands and win on the all-weather at a huge price when we have all forgotten about him. King Of Axum got the better of a close finish with the filly Little Scotland.
High Standing won the Class 3 Handicap in neat style. He has a good record but looks as if he does not stand too much racing. Wyatt Earp, who invariably needs his first run of the season, stayed on in third. He is a standing dish after such circumstances and may be of interest at somewhere like Beverley next time. Predominately, I was watching this to see how Chartist performed on the assumption that the five at Chester – where he is entered on Wednesday – would suit him better than this six. Unfortunately, he was a long looking last having shown up until halfway, with his jockey easing off as if something was amiss. Even if fulfilling his engagement at Chester next week, he would be hard to recommend.
A fancied Exceptional Art, returning to action after finishing down the field in last year’s Prix Morny, did not entirely convince in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Carrying his head in the air and running keenly in the early part of the race, despite knuckling down inside the last furlong he was unable to get to grips with Saucy Brown. However, it was a close run thing. War Native completed a line of three inside the final furlong.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MAY 1st:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
With the ground firming up on turf, division 1 of the Class 5 maiden turned out to be a warm affair. There were strong messages for three runners, all from major yards. Euston Square had run with promise on his two runs – once as a juvenile, more recently at Newmarket when third to Infraad and Invincible Heart – form that sent out conflicting bulletins in view of the runner-up’s record. However, Euston Square had moved into contention from last place at Newmarket so the run was probably better than it looked. Makaam had apparently improved since chasing home subsequent winner Crown Choice, and then there was Tryst who, as a four-year-old that had been second in a division of last year’s Wood Ditton, had the weakest form of the three but the rub was he had been working at home with Guineas contender Evasive. They are three nice sorts. Despite looking rusty, Tryst engaged top gear inside the last furlong to deny Makaam close home. The runner-up had secured first run but could not quite repel the winner. Caught flat-footed at the turn, Euston Square finished in style. A mile will suit him better; a remark that also applies to Tryst. As the betting suggested, these three were clear.
In contrast to the opening event, the Class 4 Fillies’ Stakes for two-year-olds looked moderate. Unraced Art Jewel won despite flashing her tail from some way out and whirling it when given several reminders by Jamie Spencer. The once-raced Any Day pressed her inside the final furlong with Forget in third. The prospects for the winner are limited as long as she impersonates a windmill.
Secret Witness won a much weaker division two of the maiden won by Tryst. A debutant by Pivotal, he made hard work of a simple task but significant improvement is expected. He is a name to remember if his entourage’s assessment of him is any near accurate. Hypnotist flashed home late. Well beaten by Debussy over ten furlongs, all his best form has been around a mile. He should win a handicap from his present mark of 72, assuming it remains unchanged and his trainer is prepared to jettison some fancy plans.
Swiss Diva looked good when winning the Class 3 Handicap from a mark of 85. Tucked in behind the leaders and produced down the straight, she won easing down. It is tempting to label this as only an average handicap. Crystal Moments in second does not appeal as a well-treated animal from 90. Harry Patch is a fine robust gelding that cannot fail but impress. His giant stride took him to the front but eventually he dropped back to finish third. It is not encouraging to see Never Lose in fourth so the taking run of Major Phil in fifth may need to be tempered. Having his first run since December, he freewheeled in to fifth without any serious questions being asked. Currently rated 79, he will be sharper next time.
It is a struggle to make too much of the Class 2 Handicap. Abbondanza racked up the hat trick from a less than willing Capricorn Run. Ceremonial Jade was third. Mastership made up late headway for fourth with Titan Triumph – back on his favoured left-handed track – a listless sixth of seven.
King Of Dixie has always been something of an enigma; but has talent. Connections deserve applause for resisting what must have been a temptation to geld this good-looking example of Kingmambo. He does not always hold his form and is better encountering this sort of company. He is something of a twilight horse but made light work of the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. Fullback was second and Mahadee third.
Lady Jane Digby made the best of a soft opportunity in the Class 2 Handicap. Several of her opponents failed to fire or may have their days on another occasion. Safari Sunup got the better of a close tussle with Ancient Lights for second. Ancient Lights, so impressive on last year’s debut, showed signs of encouragement in third as did stable mate Montbretia. She looked as if she needed this (reflected in the market), swung wide on the turn and from thereafter the race was lost. She finished nicely under hands and heels and should be sharper next time. A mark of 94 gives her a chance at this level. Beauchamp Viceroy continues to disappoint. This represented a chance for him today at the weights, but he dropped away tamely. He has not won since his juvenile days – a pattern that looks unlikely to be broken on this evidence.
Fortuni made the most of an opportunist ride to shoot clear from the turn, sealing victory in the Class 4 Handicap. He obviously stays well and this was not only a clever ride from Sanders, but a good piece of placing from Sir Mark Prescott. Sehoy had too much too do from the home turn but did close on the eased-down winner. Once again, he did not give his jockey much help in that he hung and was awkward on the turn. On his last effort round here he failed to negotiate the bend. Therefore, perhaps a reoccurrence of sorts could have been anticipated and he should have been closer to the pace. Curacao was another outfoxed by the way things panned out. There was shrewd support for him and he may prove it was justified next time. Scene Two ran in snatches; this was a big step up in trip after he won over seven furlongs last time. This was probably a strong handicap.
MUSSELBURGH RACING RESULTS:
As reported last time, Saucy Girl is only small. After an initial run that was merely adequate, she failed to cope with the tacky conditions in the Class 4 maiden. The event went to another filly in Dispol Keasha, who is much more substantial. Ventura Cove was closing inside the final furlong with Saucy Girl only third.
Wind Star ran well enough on his reappearance in the Class 4 Handicap to suggest he may win something soon. Only fourth behind the improving Sirvino and Royal Amnesty, he should better this before long.
The major event on the card – the Class 2 Conditions Stakes – provided a success for the three-year-old Spin Cycle who returned to form to beat some smart older sprinters. A fit Cheveton was narrowly denied, ahead of the lightly-raced City Dancer (another three-year-old) and Hamish McGonagall who was suited by the conditions. This was his first run of the season and one he is entitled to improve upon.
PUNCHESTOWN RACING RESULTS:
Jumping and non-jumping fans were treated to a tremendous race for the Grade 1 Champion Hurdle. But for a sticky jump at the last hurdle, Punjabi may have consolidated his Cheltenham win but lost some momentum, allowing Solwit to take another bite at the cherry. Turning for home, all the big players were on the bridle and this race sets a fair standard. It reinforces that Solwit’s win at Aintree (decried by yours truly) was no fluke and that Punjabi – on unsuitable ground – is tough as teak. Quevega justified this step up in grade by finishing third ahead of Sizing Europe who once again failed to find what he promised. That said this was a good effort from a horse with a delicate constitution. The plan is to send him chasing next season.
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