April 25th:

Sandown Results

A cracking card was compromised to a degree by persistent rain. It opened with the Class 2 Esher Cup, for which impressive Nottingham winner Sacred Act – recently supplemented for the St James’s Palace Stakes – was the market pick. Holes could be picked in the race he won last time (both his main rivals having pulled too hard and failing to finish), but by all accounts the winning debutant had barely been asked a question at home beforehand. In this elevated company it has to be said he was never a factor.

What About Carlo, last seen when three lengths fourth of five in the Haynes, Hanson and Clark at Newbury and a winner in the soft at Goodwood, was always handy and stayed on strongly to contain opposition long on potential but short on form. Rated 85 today, these conditions suit well.

End Of Line stayed on best of the rest for second and on this evidence, despite a quick pedigree, saw out this mile.

First Flight arrived with what looked like a serious challenge two out but it petered away. By Invincible Spirit he has handled the ground but may not have stayed this far. Sacred Act reportedly hated the ground. He is worth another chance, although his mark assumes plenty.

In his time Noble Mission has been labelled a bigger monkey than King Kong. Ridden from the front on this occasion Frankel’s well-documented brother made all in the Group 3 Gordon Richards, never seeing another rival. It is tempting to think these tactics might be the making of him, but that has yet to be confirmed. Certainly they worked today.

Despite a negative message, over an inadequate trip, connections will take some heart from the run of Telescope, who plugged on for second without ever looking likely to bridge the gap.

Contributer ran well in third. Fit from an outing at Kempton, he looked likely to throw down a serious challenge halfway down the straight but to an extent floundered on the ground. He can do better still.

It was a familiar story with the Godolphin representative Sky Hunter. Third to Intello in the French Derby and out of action for ten months, despite attracting all the so-called clever money, he laboured like a miner at the end of a twelve-hour shift. Talk of the Prince Of Wales seems fanciful.

All the signs are that this year’s Lincoln was a class event. Runner-up Tullius became its biggest flagship bearer when beating some higher-profile rivals in the Group 2 Mile. He does handle soft and capitalised on the inability of several of his opponents to fire.

Montiridge came with a run of sorts but spluttered on ground he handles but that is not ideal. This was a satisfactory return to action.

Penitent ran his usual big race on ground he loves. Top Notch Tonto had his ground but was reported to be in need of the outing so early in the season. Once the summer weather kicks in, he will be hard to place.

Garswood looked well but, held up, ran poorly. A winner first time out last year and with a proven record on this sort of surface, this has to go down as a shocking effort.

Western Hymn brought a semblance of sanity back to a mucky day when winning the Classic Trial. Good news first: On a day when nothing finished from the rear, Western Hymn’s turn of foot allowed him to do just that; although his win did nothing to promote his Classic claims.

Once he hit the front, he did jink and it took a reminder to straighten him out. After that he lengthened away without looking impressive. It now seems safe to say he will stay twelve furlongs. With a round action, he should not have been inconvenienced by the ground, although his jockey was adamant he will be better on a faster surface. The Derby will probably come too soon but he remains a horse with plenty of potential who, all being well, takes in the Dante next after which we will know more.

Impulsive Moment left a Lingfield maiden well behind him in second, with a flattered Greenham third, Master Carpenter, next to finish. Red Galileo lacks a finishing kick.

Considering he was out of his depth, Automated (second at Newbury under an enterprising ride) was not disgraced. In finishing fifth he has played a back-handed compliment to Eagle Top, who runs in a handicap at Leicester on Saturday from a mark of 90.

Having finished sixth in the Super Sprint at Newbury when last seen, Eccleston was one of those winners that as there to be seen but got away in the Class 2 handicap over five furlongs. In a race where they were strung out like novice hurdlers, Eccleston defied the mark of 88 with something to spare.

As it turned out – and with the poorly handicapped Hey Chewed in second – the race may not have been that good. That said it would be unwise to write off the winner next time if turned out under a penalty and on a similar surface which brings out the best in him.

The maiden for fillies – often an informative event – looked only ordinary this year, although that could be a reflection on the ground. Kallisha – a Whipper filly – opened her account from Nancy For Nairobi (fourth to Inchila at Newbury) and What A Scorcher (only a semblance of ability last year in her maiden).

Grace And Favour weakened inside the last furlong; whereas Allegria made up a lot of ground from the rear to display some promise in fifth.

The last race on a dank day – a Class 3 handicap – featured several unexposed types and Windshear, who had finished second to the useful Cloudscape at the Craven meeting. Turned out relatively quickly from the same mark – that of 80, due to rise to 86 – he was a warm order.

Always handy he eventually cleared away under Richard Hughes to boost Newmarket form that already looks strong. This was only his third run and even a revised mark will not halt his obvious progress. He will stay further than ten furlongs and easy ground will always be of benefit. Collaboration stayed on to deprive Elite Army of second. In a decent handicap, Gothic posted promise in fourth.
April 23rd:

Epsom Results

Course-walkers pronounced the normally favoured stands’ side to be a disadvantage in the depleted field (fifteen became ten) in the Class 3 five furlong handicap. Consequently there were some hesitant riders from the start, resulting in a half-hearted event.

Drawn against the rail, Adam Kirby adopted a when-in-doubt-blast-out-and-kick policy aboard Caspian Prince on whom he made all. Elusivity and Face Value were next with Pearl Blue, who was last until two furlongs out, picking up strongly from an impossible position to take fourth. Not known for winning first time out, although she looked well, this run will doubtless tee her up for a pop at a similar event. She may appreciate a stiffer track.

There were four defectors in the Great Metropolitan (three were highest drawn – just a coincidence surely) leaving a field of eleven.

Beacon Lady – a five-time winner at Brighton and also once here – clearly likes undulating tracks. She bolted up from Da Do Run Run and Dark Ruler. You could argue Red Runaway had his chance scuppered when Jakey took his ground two out. However, the ease of the winner’s victory suggests Red Runaway – who did not look obviously full of running once in the clear – would not have found much in any case.

The smallest in the field, Our Channel (not unbacked at big prices) caused something of an upset in the Derby trial, handling the track, making most of the running and hanging on under a vigorous and positive Moore ride to withstand the late challenge of Marzocco.

The runner-up closed on cloying ground and could be adjudged unlucky. Stars Over The Sea, Signposted and a reluctant looking Hartnell were all close up. According to Deidre Johnston, Hartnell finished distressed so this could not be considered his true running. In the light of Munjaz’s win last week, the already gelded Moontime was entitled to do better but was quick to check out.

What developed into a tricky day just got trickier with the win of Sennockian Star from Clayton in the City and Surburban. These two had clashed at Pontefract two weeks earlier, neither looking particularly well-treated here. They were in the first four throughout in a race where those held up failed to land a blow. Soviet Rock was third.

Ravenous won a weak-looking maiden at the fifth time of asking. Moshe, who had finished sixth to Chatez (runner in the last) at Newbury, ran on encouragingly in second. There should be a race somewhere for him, be it on the all-weather or up the M1. After promise in two maidens at Kempton last year, D’avignon was hopelessly at sea and well beaten. Reluctant in the stalls, he was always off the bridle. Whatever excuse can be concocted, he is one to be wary of at present.

Chatez made some sense of the afternoon’s proceedings by taking the Class 4 handicap in handsome style. Having beaten Observational last season (admittedly flattered) a mark of 78 left plenty of margin for error.

19th April:

Kempton Results

There was a good word for Escalating in the Brocklesby; although disappointing at Doncaster, he made no mistake in the opening event. A good-sized son of Three Valleys, he was too good for Be Bold, who had shown promise at Newbury behind Kasb.

By Dubawi out of a Green Desert mare, five furlongs always threatened to find out Colour Catcher. Only small, he was outpaced until freewheeling into third under a considerate ride inside the last furlong. Given the first two were older and had experience, this was not a bad effort and one he should better over an extra furlong.

Zurigha won a slowly-run listed Snowdrop Stakes, greatly assisted by holding a prominent position throughout. In contrast, Ribbons had ground to recover and she allowed the winner first run. Hers was a satisfactory reappearance over a trip that is probably on the short side.

Ryan Moore is riding in top form at present. Brilliant on Grandeur yesterday, on Sea Shanty today, he again rode Queen Of Ice assuredly in the four-runner conditions event. By Selkirk, making all to beat Midnite Angel, she was presumably sent here in search of a forgiving surface.

Zampa Manos, narrowly beaten by Passing Star who ran so well against Ertijaal yesterday, made all to keep a persistent Snow Trouble at bay in the conditions stakes.

Wolverhampton winner Hagree held the favourite God Willing for third. Like many of Arch’s pedigree, God Willing looks better than he is. Impressive on debut at Newbury, although highly tried since, there is no sign he has gone on. He ran all right, but at present (last year he was unfurnished), he has to be considered an under-achiever.

18th April:

Lingfield Results

Abundant prize-money supplied by bookmakers desperate not to have a blank day made it a strong Good Friday card.

Possible Guineas hope Ertijaal won the class 2 conditions event over seven furlongs in fair style. Looking tighter than on his reappearance, he put up a similar performance, always looking too good for his opponents and winning with a little in hand.

With a mark of 100 before this, he is scaling the ratings, looking like a 107 horse at least. There remains the question as to whether he will be as effective over a mile but on balance that seems likely.

Passing Star lost his unbeaten record but was far from discredited in second. He was jabbing away at the winner inside the last furlong. In third, Pool House replicated his run of last time with the winner, beaten an identical distance.

Although running well, American Hope was only fourth this time and again looked to be running out of gas in the closing stages. When only beaten a head by Ertijaal last time he had the benefit of a run under his belt. He has ability but may not be that easy to place.

Captain Cat only had one horse behind him when starting his wide sweep of a run on the outside a furlong out. His turn of foot was decisive, putting those that were fighting it out in the shade. His trainer had been patient and such a policy was rewarded with this valuable prize. His form is already solid and this win from 99 further underlines his future claims. He could easily be good enough to contest pattern company, but apparently a more immediate target is the Hunt Cup.

Despite reservations about his resolution, Grandeur toughed it out to take the Class 2 Conditions race.

He had to dig deep to beat Dick Doughtywylie, whom he headed close home. Robins Hood Bay and Solar Deity ran solid races in third and fourth.

April 17th:

Newmarket Results

On looks, in the class 4 for juvenile fillies, victory went to one of the least likely in Spirit Of Xian who was all legs and went to post as if her tail was on fire.

It was a bunch finish with Al Ghuwariyah and El Che close up along with once-raced London Life. The race looked ordinary by this track’s standards. Favourite, Lacing, was undone by a tardy start and was soon out of contention. She did pick up and finish, giving the impression a small race awaits.

It took a while for Farhh’s full-brother Basem to get the message in the Wood Ditton – the race where horses that have thought up to now their sole purpose in life is to eat, sleep and do the odd bit of work, changes such perceptions.

As usual a number took the eye. The winner got going late under a decent De Sousa ride to collar Made With Love and Moonvoy.

A Derby quote about a horse with a dubious staying pedigree is taking the proverbial. On this evidence he might turn out to be decent. It is worth bearing in mind (and he does resemble his brother) that Farhh – a big horse with plenty of substance up top – did not realise his potential until he was four. Accordingly they might tread with care as they plot Basem’s future. From just off the pace, Prince Of Stars and Famous Kid were noted staying on in encouraging fashion.

There was plenty of depth in the Tattersalls Millions Trophy won by Sudden Wonder – another high profile three-year-old scorer for Godolphin. Below top class last year (no reason to suppose it will be a different story now), his three runs to date nevertheless demonstrated he was useful.

In second, Observational was the eye-catcher. A big flashy son of Galileo with just one run under his belt, he was still green and unbalanced on occasion. He came there with a powerful run inside the last furlong and made the winner pull out all the stops.

Always highly thought of, he can improve on this and looks a quality prospect. A galloping track will suit him best.

Seagull Star has obviously wintered well and stayed on in third. Johann Struass ran poorly in sixth; although form book students will point to the fact that, negative ride or not on the day in question, he was behind Seagull Star on debut and only ran to that form here. More pressing as a comment is the fact he is known to be highly strung. One assumes he will shake off the maiden tag eventually but he is becoming expensive to follow.

As a five-year-old the decision to switch Aljamaaheer to sprinting so late in the day seemed somewhat surprising.

Apparently he had been working the house down at home and the Abernant he contested looked to be one of the weaker renewals. Even so, Hamza has a proven record in this sort of company and, aware of the possible pitfalls with the favourite, Jamie Spencer sent him on in blitz-style from the start to stretch his main rival.

Unfortunately, Hanagan fell foul of the ruse, riding Aljamaaheer as if he was in a seven furlong event. Too far out of his ground, rapidly though he closed, it was mission impossible from a furlong and a half out. Not short of a turn of foot, there is every reason to suppose Aljamaaheer will make his mark at sprinting if connections persevere.

Woken up by Ryan Moore, Toormore maintained an unbeaten record in the Craven, regaining the lead when headed by The Grey Gatsby over a furlong out. Apparently he is yet to come to himself at home

(Greenham runner-up Night Of Thunder said to be working better on the lead-up to this), so the outing should freshen him up. Carrying a 3lbs penalty, as a performance this can’t be derided but it will need improving upon in what looks like a strong Guineas this year.

The Grey Gatsby has run as well as ever in second (chased Outstrip in the Champagne at Doncaster).

The one to take the eye with a view to the future was Postponed. Second to Oklahoma City last year after winning a Yarmouth maiden, he is bred to appreciate further. Slow to stride, he was doing all his best work in the closing stages. He will get ten furlongs and probably stay twelve. We will know more about him after he has contested a Derby trial, but it will be surprising if he fails to land a decent prize somewhere along the way this year.

Once-raced Patentar was not disgraced in fourth. Anjal was never seen with a chance.

Be Ready (said to have outworked yesterday’s winner True Story at home) was the first beaten. Saddled with the mantle of being Godolphin’s best Classic hope – a big flashy chestnut that can always get work in Hollywood as a second career – he lost his action and ran as if something was amiss.

Mull Of Kintyre came back to his best for to land the Group 3 he claimed last year. French Navy tried to close but was left with too much to do. Despite an awkward head carriage, Fencing was third, only weakening in the last furlong.

Over an inadequate trip, Gospel Choir finished best of all in fourth. Nine furlongs is plainly short of his best trip and significant improvement can be expected after this pipe opener when returning to twelve furlongs.

The market told its story with Just The Judge; even so, she checked out rather quickly.

Hadaatha repaid her trainer’s patience with a winning appearance in the seven furlong maiden. This Sea The Stars filly has always been considered decent – something she showed in abundance here. The run should bring her on and she has the size to progress.

Placed in two maiden last year and fancied, Eastern Belle came here with reasonable form. Her run in second adds credence to the race.

Several took the eye in behind. Notably Solar Magic and Ramshackle gave every indication they are capable of winning before long.

They knew what they were doing with Cloudscape in the Class 3 handicap. Well backed after winning his maiden at Kempton, he made light of a mark of 85.

Travelling powerfully throughout, although he did not clear away, he was always on top and won like a horse capable of winning a strong handicap.

Windshear was the one to test him most. The pair were clear of a decent field headed by Volume.

April 16th:

Newmarket Results

Provident Spirit extended the current run of the John Gosden yard with a cosy success in the Alex Scott Maiden.

The race did not tell us much. Entitled to improve after a promising debut at Doncaster, the winner has an action that suggests this ground was as fast as he can comfortably handle. A strong son of Invincible Spirit he was too good for the opposition, who look handicappers.

At halfway those with experience threatened to dominate the juvenile event but that quickly changed. Debutant Mind Of Madness – by Azamour but out of an Oasis Dream mare – swooped on Abscent Friends and Harry Hurricane. The third overturned Leicester form with Flyball (fractious in the stalls) on 3lbs better terms giving the form a solid look. The winner looks a little better than a typical early season two-year-old. Races like the National Stakes at Sandown or maybe even the Coventry at Royal Ascot will probably be on the agenda.

Magnus Maximus caused something of a surprise when grabbing the Tattersalls Millions. Securing first run, he held on as the well-backed Toofi launched the last challenge.

From a stable not fully firing as yet, the runner-up travelled strongly throughout, confirming the impression six is his best trip. Naadirr took the step up in class well after winning a Kempton maiden.

Taking on the colts for the first time and fit from Meydan, Wedding Ring was a never nearer fifth. Scrutiny, a soft ground winner last backend, was noticeably inconvenienced by this drying surface.

After two easy wins in lesser company, Shifting Power passed his first major test in the Free Handicap from a mark of 105. A fine looking colt by Compton Place, he benefitted from a determined ride from Ryan Moore but also left the impression there was something left to work on. No Guineas horse, something like the Jersey could be an ideal target.

Receiving five pounds, Mushir narrowly lost his unbeaten record. Representing Night Of Thunder’s form (therefore indirectly that of Kingman) from a mark of 101, Aeolus was a close third having been denied a clear passage. Saayerr and Parbold were on the heels of these in a proper event.

Sandiva added another notch to her pistol when taking the Nell Gwyn. Already exposed as no more than a decent filly, she emerged best from a rough race to win from a mark of 109, which is pretty much as good as she is. Although likeable, she does not look up to Group 1 standard.

Pound for pound, Saturday’s Fred Darling looked a better event. Euro Charline progressed from winning a Wolverhampton handicap from a mark of 78 to chase her home. Next came Majeyda who was close up.

Considered inferior to her stablemate Ihtimaal, her run puts this race into Classic perspective. Queen Catrine suffered in a barging match late on, as did Dorothy B whose run here can be ignored.

The listed Feilden Stakes has a decent record at throwing up horses to follow for the season. Won last season by French Derby winner Intello, this year it was the turn of True Story.

Last seen in July, a reluctant loader that cruised into contention and then pinged away up the hill, this son of Manduro has done well over the winter. This performance puts him into any Group 1 shake-up as yet.

The runner-up, Obliterator, came here after winning a Curragh maiden in September. He has slight knee-action and was unsuited by the ground. Only determination saw him mount a challenge from the rear meeting the rising ground. Although unlikely to subsequently beat the winner, he will always be better on an easier surface.

Truth Or Dare (pulled hard early) was six lengths away in fourth, ahead of Barley Mow, who has to be filed under D for disappointing.

Munjaz, a winner in the wings after two promising runs at HQ last year, opened his account in a strong maiden to hold Venzia, another with form over this track last year. In third, Connecticut got the hang of things late to finish eye-catchingly strongly. He should know more next time and his able handler can be relied upon to find the right opportunity.

The message for Danzeno – only a winner at lowly Redcar last year – proved accurate in the sprint handicap. He won from a mark of 90. Already gelded but a horse with plenty of substance, he took the measure of Expert inside the last furlong to clear away.

April 12th:

Newbury Results

Despite carrying the second colours, Matalleb maintained the current form of the Gosden yard when overcoming a sluggish start to pick up the better fancied Mutakayyef in the Class 4 maiden. The runner-up was second in a moderate Newmarket maiden last year and is clearly only average. However, he should get off the mark. He looks the part; being by Sea The Stars and judging by the way he was coming back to the winner, he can do better over further.

The filly Brown Diamond, who had posted promise as a juvenile, recovered a good deal of forfeited ground to freewheel into third. This was not a hot maiden but she is entitled to open her account before long.

Not for the first time, Cubanita upset the apple cart in the Group 3 John Porter. When it came to a battle, she was too determined for Noble Mission.

Rawaki put up a personal best in third, with Astonishing putting in a satisfactory reappearance in fourth. There was an encouraging word for Mutashaded. A big son of Raven’s Pass he looks the part but even allowing for his stable’s current form (most representatives are needing it), he ran poorly.

J Wonder returned to the sort of form that saw her go off a well-backed contender for the Lowther back in August when she bombed. There was no mistake this time as she took the Fred Darling in a tight finish with Al Thakira.

Probably this is not 1,000 Guineas winning form, but the first two are entitled to take their chances at Newmarket. Joyeuse was another to recover form in a major way in third and, a well-grown daughter of Oasis Dream, she looks likely to come on considerably for the run.

It was the colts turn in the next – a hot Greenham. Several refused to settle. Berkshire was all over the place; Golden Town was another that was too fresh.

Kingman settled perfectly and stormed into the lead over a furlong out to consolidate his position in the Guineas market. A nice two-year-old last year, he is the finished article as a three-year-old.

The fancied and hitherto unbeaten Night Of Thunder was a decent second, but the winner outclassed him.

Lat Hawill did well on only his second start to take fourth. There are races to be won with him, although the Guineas will surely arrive too soon.

Golden Town was not disgraced, especially considering he took such a hold early. Astaire failed to stay and needs to return to six furlongs. Berkshire wants further; even so, this was a desperate effort and it is a case of returning to the drawing board.

Eagle Top had to be everything they said he was to reel back Automated, who had established a clear lead and was not stopping in the class 4 maiden over 1m 3f.

With only a couple behind him on entrance to the straight, Eagle Top – who has a pedigree to die for – was given a very confident ride, quickening with a furlong to race. He ran out a cosy winner. The opposition was not great, but he could only win and this experience will not be lost. He can go on to better things.
11th April:

Newbury Results

Kasb took one of the significant early season juvenile events of the season and in so doing maintained the current successful spell of the John Gosden camp.

Skittish at the stalls and slow to exit, this well-grown son of Arcano (one of the most attractive in the field) picked up strongly from an uncompromising position at halfway to pull clear. A comparatively late foal, there is more to come, particularly over six.

Charlie’s Star (a distant second to the speedy Tiggy Wiggy at Kempton) came next, her proximity to the winner sounding a cautionary note.

Ballymore Castle (another April foal) was third, looking as if he might improve for this run. The Paco Kid was a shaken-up fourth; but in fifth, Be Bold was quietly doing his best work at the finish and can put the experience to good use in lesser company next time.

The Class 3 conditions stakes attracted a promising field of seven.

Market activity concerned the Derby entrant Western Hymn – an impressive Kempton winner in December – and the penalised recently Derby-supplemented Scotland.

Both were subject to positive reports. Despite this hike in class, Western Hymn was once again able to utilise a devastating turn of foot. Arguably not racing on the best part of the course (jockeys favoured the centre where the grass was apparently shorter), Western Hymn cut down his rivals in strides.

A robust and raw individual who can be made fitter, he has an ideal Derby profile thus far (slight stamina doubt on the distaff side but races as if stamina is not an issue) and can continue to improve.

He deserves utmost respect when taking the leap to Group company and could easily win a recognised Epsom trial (Sandown is the most likely next target).

Snow Sky (a rare half-decent son of Nayef) ran on for second, narrowly nabbing that position from Double Bluff. Failing to quicken, Scotland was back in fourth with no obvious excuse. The 2lbs he had to concede made little difference and on this evidence his Derby entry looks a piece of expensive optimism.

The Class 2 three-year-old handicap over seven furlongs that followed has a habit of throwing up clues for higher honours later in the season.

Course and distance winner Muwaary was again the order of the day for the Gosden yard, bidding for their third winner on the day. Not seen since July last year, despite pulling hard early, he worked his way to the front a furlong out to skittle some potentially well-handicapped rivals, recording a fast time. His mark of 82 obviously underrates him. He is another splendid example of Oasis Dream and will continue to progress.

Not as fortunate as the winner in that he is already rated 92, Zarwaan was an honourable second ahead of another at the top of the weights – Brazos – who ran no race last time at Lingfield but returned to form here.

Showpiece – rated only 84 – picked up ground from the rear to take fourth. Bits of his juvenile form read well. He can win a decent handicap on a flat track over this trip of seven furlongs. York springs to mind.

Extremity failed to perform to expectations in seventh. From the same mark as the winner, Exchequer ran poorly, finishing last. Maybe this run came too soon; more likely is a combination of that and a handsome win against poor opponents last time that flatters.

Not unbacked, Luck Beggar yclaimed the scalps of stalwart and fit Jimmy Styles and Steps (minus headgear today) in the Class 2 handicap.

The angle with Steps was that he had the valuable 3lbs claim of Oisin Murphy that put him in off a winning mark. He may have just needed this, but set to return to his mark of 105 next time, today provided his best opportunity of a return to success.

Dutch Masterpiece trailed in last. He is better than this (drying ground was not ideal) but it is not the first time he has turned in a poor performance.

It was maiden three-year-old events for fillies up to the end of the card. The first of them – restricted to first-timers over seven furlongs – went to the Pivotal filly Evita Peron, who finished nicely on top once the penny dropped.

Not fully tuned, apparently like many Pivotals she needs juice and came here before the ground changes.

Another Pivotal, Ski Lift, can be marked up on her run. Toward the rear early, she made up plenty of ground under tender handling. Several took the eye (Wohja, Zaawia and Enliven to name three) but we are presently in the dark as to the worth of this event.

Second to Western Hymn at Kempton on debut, Be My Gal was all the rage in the first division of the split Class 4 over 1m 2f.

Whereas the winner that day made up oodles of ground to engulf the field, Be My Gal was always on the pace and essentially dismissed when it mattered, making that form potentially misleading.

Her defeat should not distract from the earlier win of Western Hymn. As the race developed it only concerned three. The Gosden filly, the New Approach daughter, Bright Approach, came from last to first to win readily, completing a four-timer for her yard in the process. Her next target is the Cheshire Oaks.

In second, Be My Gal should have her day in ordinary company.

Talmada stepped up on her Kempton debut in third. Marsh Daisy, who is bred to stay further, was the only other to threaten, making steady headway over the last two furlongs to finish fourth. A moderate event over twelve furlongs should see her open her account.

Inchila, who made a promising debut at Goodwood last season only to disappoint next time, stormed through in the second and possibly better division. The places were occupied by three fillies with form: Cascading, holding on for the runner-up spot ahead of Criteria. As last year, Criteria looks as if she can achieve better. Not fully wound up here, she would be interesting in a handicap; although given her connections it is likely she will pursue a more conventional route.

9th April

Nottingham Results

The manner of Sacred Act’s victory (swept past the field with a taking turn of foot) in the first division of the Class 5 maiden suggests this son of Oasis Dream might be useful.

However, there is a need for caution. His defeat of Fast Delivery and Art of War reads well enough, but neither the second or third look as if they will live up to promise earlier shown.

Fast Delivery pulled too hard before making what looked like a winning move approaching the last furlong. His effort soon fizzled. As a son of Authorized racing over a mile, he falls between two stools at present.

It is easy to see why Art Of War has been gelded. After a highly encouraging second to Stealth Missile at Ascot last year, he has failed to progress. Tugging early and racing with his head in the air, he found disappointingly little when asked and on this evidence will struggle to break his duck.

GM Hopkins supplied a ready double for his stable in the second division. A promising debut at Newbury was followed by a poor follow-on at Newmarket as a juvenile but he made no mistake here. Derby entrant, Lacan was prominent throughout, showing some promise in second. Roseburg finished off well enough and might do better in handicaps and over further.

Rated only 69 going into this, Signore Piccolo won like a horse that is well ahead of that rating in the class 4 handicap over five furlongs. Only lightly raced – he looks to have flourished over the winter – there was plenty left in the locker. The handicapper will probably make a 10lbs adjustment, but it may not be enough.

Apparently Signore Piccolo will head to Chester next – where he finished third as a juvenile. Three-time Southwell winner Scarborough found the competition much more demanding than he has been used to, but the placed horses (Piazon and One Boy) were not disgraced.

Last seen when third in the Kings Stand at Royal Ascot, ten months ago, Pearl Secret returned to action with a comfortable success in the conditions race.

A taking son of Compton Place, the aim now is to start where he left off before a minor injury. A lovely stamp of a sprinter, further runs will be restricted to a forgiving surface.

Flying Officer completed a red letter day for The John Gosden team with a win in the Listed. On only his fourth start, this son of Dynaformer stayed on willingly to beat last year’s runner-up Earth Amber.

Having been headed three out, High Jinx ran on to snatch third. Connections will be satisfied with his reappearance effort. Biographer looked unwilling and pottery on the ground in the closing stages. It appears he is out of love with the game at present.

Lincoln third running of the same mark, Robert The Painter, gained compensation with a hard fought success in the Class 3 handicap. Obviously he will be hiked up now, which threatens to make life difficult.

Roserrow’s seasonal debut in second suggests he should win a similar contest before long.

Secret Pursuit was another to make light of a lowly mark in the Class 5 handicap. Last seen in January, she was nudged to a clear success from a mark of 68.

Not many inmates from Sir Michael Stoute’s race from marks of 65. Sahara Desert broke the trend in the Class 5 handicap for three-year-olds but it made little difference. He was well beaten in a moderate event and a new home will presumably be found.
April 5th:

Aintree Results

Top class handicap form rose to the top in the two-and-a-half mile Grade 1 novice hurdle.

County Hurdle winner (form already underlined this week with the run of Diakali) Lac Fontana inched to the front over the last to defeat Betfair Hurdle winner Splash Of Ginge and the Greatwood winner Dell’Arca. All three are tough and consistent. The winner will probably stay further.

Supreme Fifth Wilde Blue Yonder – who because of silly jumping errors has not achieved the heights he should have this season – looked to run out of petrol over the last two flights, finishing ahead of Volnay De Thaix, who lacked the necessary turn of foot and looks as if he will stay three miles.

Saved for this, Baldur Succes, a nimble and athletic chaser, pounced at the second-last to jump into the lead in the Grade1. On this showing he would have gone very close in the Arkle and is a contender for top novice honours.

Simply Ned worried Trifolium out of it over the last. The Arkle third did not jump fluently enough to win at this level, making a couple of indifferent jumps on the far side and again at the cross fence. This is not his track.

With a blistering pace shared by Zarkandar and At Fishers Cross in the Grade 1 over three miles, it was left to Barry Geraghty and Whisper to pick up the pieces.

A much improved performer this season (pays a tribute to Saphir Du Rheu), despite dripping with sweat, Whisper took it up approaching the last and hung on, all out as At Fishers Cross lunged one last time on the run-in.

Possibly the runner-up was slightly unfortunate as he had to run with a loose shoe. Even so, Whisper is an admirable type. He is another from the Henderson squad this is likely to be chasing next season, in which sphere a willing attitude allied to his ability could make him formidable.

The story of the Grand National this year surrounded connections of Pineau De Re – none more so than his likeable trainer and the jockey for whom this has been a crowning year – Leighton Aspell.

On a five-timer, Balthazar King was a gallant second, ahead of Double Seven. Rocky Creek did best of the trio of class horses, vying for the lead approaching the straight but ultimately was beaten by the weight in fifth.

Tidal Bay was brought down; Long Run succumbed to Valentine’s. There was plenty of incident.

This report from Aintree concludes National Hunt coverage for the 2013/14 season. Any further reference to jumping will be in the tips section. From here on, it is Flat all the way. We hope our comments have been of help this winter…

Lingfield Results

After three promising runs last year, Exchequer easily snapped up his maiden over seven furlongs from Twin Point. Currently rated 76, presumably he will be hiked to 82 after this, which does not preclude him from following up in better company.

Another Exceed And Excel, Mutawathea, also trained by Richard Hannon, won the six furlong maiden. A big lug of a thing, he swung wide in the straight but was still good enough to recover and mow down Dark Leopard. This form needs improving upon back on turf, but the winner looked as if he can be made fitter and he should be capable of better.

This time last season, after winning his maiden at Haydock and a handicap at Newmarket, Brass Ring looked all set to scale the heights.

For whatever reason he has been absent since, returning here to snatch a Class 2 handicap from a mark of 90. Getting up in the shadow of the post he has only just won from Viewpoint and Glorious Protector so should not be raised by more than 5lbs at the outside.

He is probably worth more than that as he won up the rail (not always achieved here) looking somewhat stuffy. Entered in a couple of Cup events, he may not be good enough to win at that level but another handicap should not be ruled out. By Rail Link, he will stay further.

The £20,000 Listed International Stakes was marred by a ludicrous start – Sloane Avenue and Zampa Manos bursting from the stalls and having to be withdrawn. Reduced to a field of three, outsider Bow Creek made all.

Barley Mow had every chance. He swung wide in the straight but this should have been his race for the taking. The fact he failed to peg back the leader was disappointing, particularly in the light of Charm Spirit’s run in the Djebel earlier in the week.

American Hope was a little too keen early and failed to finish having staked a claim a furlong out. It had looked as if he would benefit from this step up in trip last time but on this evidence he may have failed to stay.

April 4th:

Aintree Results

Josses Hill gained well-deserved compensation for two reversals in honourable style in Grade 1 company coming into this – the Grade 2.

A thoroughly likeable type that is a real trier and has an ideal constitution, despite finding the track and ground a bit quick, he knuckled down with a massive jump at the last to shake off what looked like a major danger in Sgt Reckless.

Described by connections as their Arkle horse for next year, the sky is the limit. Sgt Reckless, the eye-catcher from the Supreme in that he made up acres of ground in the straight, came there swinging two out and actually headed Josses Hill, apparently going the better. However, he had no answer to the winner’s renewed surge. The pair (who give a boost to Supreme winner Vautour and indirectly The Tullow Tank) finished clear of toiling rivals headed by King Of The Picts and Imperial Cup winner Baltimore Rock.

Handsome is as handsome does. Far from the best-looker in the Mildmay Chase, despite stuttering in to some of his fences on the far side on the last circuit, Holywell came up when it mattered in the straight to slam the door in the face of his pursuers.

Made for a jockey like McCoy, this win eclipses RSA form and he looks a possible Gold Cup horse. The fine-looking Don Cossack, who tipped up at Cheltenham in the RSA, was backed to atone, but, well though he ran, could not get to the winner. Wonderful Charm was a fair third, bettering his Cheltenham run.

O’Faolains Boy – a moody customer – was unable to get to grips with his rivals on this tight circuit and backed off quickly in the straight. Never looking happy, Many Clouds was disappointing. He probably wants a softer surface and a more galloping course. A smart operator when conditions are right, he is not in this league but may do better in handicaps next season.

No one would pretend the Grade 1 Melling Chase deserved that status this year, but something had to win and it was the turn of Ryanair sixth Boston Bob.

A sprint from the last sealed victory at the expense of Rolling Aces and Ballynagour who looked the winner down the straight but did not find what he threatened off the bridle.

It was back to thrills and spills in the Topham Chase. After the win of Holywell, Ma Filleule was popular with many and rewarded them. Always travelling strongly, Barry Geraghty made it look easy, steadying his mount at the obstacles, picking her nose up at the fifth-last – he is as good a rider as there is. Only six, the mare shrugged off her mark of 150 with some ease.

And then there were three. Gradually, as the Grade 1 Sefton over three miles unfolded, the pacemaking Cole Harden, Beat That and Seeyouatmidnight pulled clear.

Beat That is another example of the Henderson juggernaut. On only his third experience over timber, he repaid his trainer’s patience, powering clear on the run to the last and setting the seal on a great day for the stable.

Beat That – a big unit that is a work in progress, but some work – is likely to be chasing next season and has the size and scope to become a star. Cole Harden kept on dourly, whilst Seeyouatmidnight emptied over the last two hurdles. A never-nearer Capote ran on for fourth.

Clondaw Kaempfer won the Grade 3 handicap hurdle. Four had chances at the last in a race that told us little. Pulled up in the County Hurdle, Cheltenian returned to something approaching his best when a close fourth. Had he jumped the last fluently he might have got up.

3rd April:

Aintree Results

With no Tiger Roll in the Grade 1 field, Triumph Hurdle form was upheld by the consistent Guitar Pete who was perfectly delivered to pick up fellow countryman Clarcam. The runner-up crashed out two from home in the Fred Winter when still in with every chance.

The unlucky horse from the Triumph, Calipto, was always prominent here in a race that with its slow early pace probably failed to suit. Having looked the winner turning in he kept on but was unable to quicken from the last.

Commissioned, well beaten by Actival at Kempton, was fourth. Considering he was earmarked for this and missed Cheltenham, Actival – a spent force from three out – ran poorly. However, connections expect to see the best of him next year on easier ground.

The beast that is the Bowl did not exactly bite punters this year but favourite Dynaste could not get to Silviniaco Conti from the second-last. The winner once again ran about from the last.

As last time, Dynaste did not look that athletic over his fences. It could be the muscle that has plagued him continues to niggle away in the background. However slight, there are question marks hovering over these two. Argocat outran his rating in third.

Punters of The New One heaved a sigh of relief after the Doom Bar Aintree Hurdle. Those that took short prices must have feared the worst between the last two as the odds-on shot looked in trouble. As Rock On Ruby and Diakali snapped at his heels from the final flight and forced a three-way photo, it was a relieved Sam Twiston-Davies that steered his way into the winner’s enclosure.

Narrowly thwarted in this contest last year when a novice, The New One does travel better than he finishes – that is to say he appears to have just one incisive run. Perhaps it would be best to give him an ice-cool ride, delivering him at the last moment. Back to hurdles and at a time of year when he flourishes, Rock On Ruby ran as well as ever he has done.

Diakali was given a perfect run through by Tony McCoy. Slow to settle, had Diakali worked in tandem with his jockey in the early stages, he might have won. Perhaps they need to remove the blinkers. He did pull out all the stops at the finish. Only five, and already with Grade 1 form to his credit (when only beaten over three lengths in the Hatton’s Grace by Jezki), he is likely to be back in top company next season.

On quick ground and in race run at breakneck speed, Parsnip Pete broke away halfway down the straight to secure the Red Rum Chase. Turn Over Sivola added another place to his CV in second with unlucky Cheltenham loser, Claret Cloak (would surely have appreciated a softer surface) in third.

The extra half mile of the Grade 1 Manifesto Chase put paid to the Arkle winner Western Warhorse. Doing too much early, as is his wont, he emptied quickly down the straight. A flamboyant character, two miles would seem his trip for now.

Uxizandre gained compensation for his narrow Cheltenham defeat, staving off a somewhat disorganised challenge from Oscar Whisky, who only got his act together when it was too late. The pair was clear.

Third in a Grade 3 at Sandown last time, despite walking through the last flight, Doctor Harper, a fine example of Presenting with plenty of substance, claimed the Grade 3 handicap hurdle. He has stayed three miles well.

Maisons-Laffitte Results

The first of the season’s recognised Classic trails got underway in France. The Prix Djebel was a tight affair, won in the last gasp by French Guineas-bound Charm Spirit, for whom this trip of virtually seven furlongs is a minimum.

Kiram, who has not grown too much doing the winter, was touched off having mounted a final furlong challenge.

With Miss France and Vorda in the field, the second Group 3 – the Impudence for fillies – looked stronger. In a messy contest Xcellence defied her odds to outspeed Vorda in the last half furlong.

Vorda remains a mystery. Although a disappointment at Santa Anita, she did not actually fail for lack of stamina there and so we will still have to see. Always handily placed today, it would be unwise to advance an excuse.

Miss France was always posted wide and pulled hard off a slow pace, making some headway in the last furlong without ever looking likely to get to the leaders. Both have work to do if they are to make an impact at Newmarket.