Horse Racing Results for March 2009..
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MARCH 31st:
FOLKESTONE RACING RESULTS:
A speedy reappearance failed to get Bould Mover off the mark in the Class 5 Maiden for two-year-olds. Beaten seven-and-a-half lengths by Star Rover in a race of dubious quality on Saturday, this son of Kyllachy had obviously benefitted from the experience, which although standing him in good stead was not enough. Black Baccara, a daughter of Superior Premium, seems to have inherited plenty of her sire’s genes as she battled bravely when tackled to hold another filly – this time by Namid – in Tom Folan. (The Tapas Partnership owns her, so perhaps Tom is a girl’s name in parts of Spain!) They were just clear of Bould Mover and Alphacino.
Imaam got his head in front at the fifth time of asking in the maiden. This was the third time he had started at odds-on, but he could make no mistake against such dire opposition. Richard Hills was hardly enthusiastic before or after, but did state the easier ground did help this son of Pivotal whose best run was first time up last year at Newbury. Rated 79, he may struggle in handicaps unless he has turned some invisible corner.
Bubses Boy was the subject of a gamble in the Class 5 Handicap. Rated 55 after the statutory three runs, like many a contender asked to race in earnest for the first time, he was green and all over the shop. The undulations of Folkestone did not suit one so inexperienced and it was only in the final furlong-and-a-half that he got the message. Only ordinary, he should race off the same mark next time. Now he knows what to do, he should recover losses. On this evidence, a step up to at least a mile-and-a-quarter will suit. Peter Grimes narrowly claimed the spoils from Lake Kalamalka in a battle between father and son in Harry and John Dunlop.
SOUTHWELL RACING RESULTS:
Dzesmin confirmed what many of us suspected in the Class 5 Handicap – that is he is totally untrustworthy. Chucked in on most of his form, he finished last of five. Those charitable enough could blame the surface or the kickback. As I write, Eric Clapton is thumping out No Alibis. How appropriate!
Cheveton did well to lift the Class 2 Handicap over the minimum on his first visit here and on his reappearance since October. He has kept better company but faced a stiff task from 96. He won with something to spare – staying on. Form horse, Rebel Duke was an honourable second ahead of fast-finisher, Ebraam who is better at six. Whiskey Creek did his best, but looks in the handicapper’s grip for now. Tajneed had a reasonable pipe opener from a stable finding a bit of form and should be winning soon.
Hunterview was most impressive in the Class 4 Handicap. He ran the opposition ragged at his first try on this surface. By American stallion, Reset, he has a dirt action and was able to come home at leisure. Becausewecan regained second inside the last furlong from a tired Statute Book who sweated up beforehand and may not have run his race.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MARCH 30th:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
The Maiden Auction Fillies’ Stakes (Class 5) concerned the three most likely on breeding. Leleyf, a March foal by Kheleyf, got up close home, depriving Emma Jean Lass [by Choisir] who had looked all set to deliver when sent on a furlong out. Back in third was speedy-bred Victorian Art. The second and third were foaled 17th and 16th January respectively so were the oldest of the bunch. Both had their chances. This was not a particularly good race in fairness, although the winner has some substance. My Mandy was putting in her best work in the last furlong under tender handling to finish fourth. By Xaar, she can win a small race. The winner may struggle with her penalty; the runner-up is unlikely to improve much and that remark seems applicable to the third, who pleased the paddock people.
Possibly the best horse was only third in the Class 4 handicap but Set The Trend was the architect of his own downfall. Colty in the paddock and pulling much too hard in the race, he turned what should have been a reasonably straightforward task into mission impossible. Although closing down the straight, wayward behaviour meant the race was already lost. Possibly he will be better by a strongly run turf affair but his wayward tendencies – hinted at on debut – will hold him back unless he learns to calm down. To be fair Cyflymder, who stayed on stoutly, may have improved for a change of stable; although on the face of it both he and the second, Takeover Bid, are exposed types.
All the talk before the Class 5 Maiden Stakes was for the Gosden-trained Big Bound. He won but it was something of a struggle to shake off the filly, Wadaat, who had the harder ride of the two. Big Bound looks a galloper and nothing special, whereas Wadaat has stepped up on her five lengths third to the promising Photographic and paid that filly a compliment in the process. Crag Path was third ahead of Gulf President. There is reason to suspect that Lennie Briscoe is better than his final position of seventh. Last at one stage and noted making progress when it was all over, he travels sweetly in his early paces and is almost certainly capable of improvement. He is now qualified for a handicap mark, which should not exceed the mid-sixties.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MARCH 29th:
LEOPARDSTOWN RACING RESULTS:
Recharge upset the Dewhurst form by ousting the winner, Intense Focus in the 2,000 Guineas Trial, a Group 3. The Dewhurst Intense Focus won did not look strong by the standards of the race, indeed it was marked down by this observer at the time as short of genuine Group 1 form. No surprise then that Intense Focus failed to concede 3lbs to the lightly raced Recharge today. Presumably, the first two will be competing at a higher level next time, but the time was slow and this form needs building on. Although only fourth of the five, Hail Caesar looks the sort to benefit most from this outing. A grey colt by Montjeu out of a Green Desert mare, he should appreciate further and did not appear fully wound up. His jockey gave him one backhander before accepting the situation. This colt should come on considerably for the outing, particularly over a couple of extra furlongs.
Any disappointment felt by the Bolger team was assuaged when Maoineach beat Breeders’ Cup runner-up Heart Shaped in the 1,000 Guineas Trial.
Although still green on this his third run [first of the season], Rockhampton showed enough raw ability to suggest we will hear more of him. He beat Pirate Ship cosily in the maiden and value more than the winning margin.
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS :
Palace Moon turned what had looked a competitive sprint into a procession when crushing his opponents in a style reminiscent of his half-brother, Sakhee’s Secret, who was also trained by Hughie Morrison and in the same ownership, when he had run away with a Newmarket handicap before going on to win a July Cup. A gelded son of Fantastic Light that should want further on pedigree, rated 88, Palace Moon, on only his fourth start, left a decent field toiling in his wake, winning by five lengths in a quick time. The useful Advanced, a former Ayr Gold Cup winner, and the now well-handicapped Evens And Odds were next to finish. Whether he will reach the heights of a July Cup remains to be seen, but the manner of the winner’s victory suggests black type awaits. Evens And Odds seems back on an even keel and may be winning shortly.
Gilano Hernando, a winner at Wolverhampton in November, looks to have come on in leaps and bounds since. He won the Class 3 handicap readily from what looks like a generous, but accurate at the time, assessment of 84 from Tepmokea. It was a long looking six lengths back to the favourite, Orbitor. The winner looks set to improve again.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MARCH 28th:
DONCASTER RACING RESULTS
And a welcome back to the Flat with the Brockelsby. Hearts Of Fire, a comparatively late foal [April], is a well grown son of Firestreak and stretched nicely clear of Archers Road. The Barry Hills’ trained, Swilly Ferry, came there with every chance but appeared to tire. He should win next time. Trade Secret finished off the race nicely in fourth and should know more next time. This looked a better juvenile contest than the one we saw at Kempton and the placed horses should win soon providing they reappear quickly.
The Class 2 Spring Mile went to Manassas, a lightly raced son of Cape Cross who had finished seven-and-a-bit lengths behind Rio De La Plata in France in October 2007. A winner at Yarmouth as a juvenile, he defied a mark of 92 after an eleven-month break. Extraterrestrial, Majuro and The Fifth Member were next to finish. The Fifth Member ran well on his reappearance and looks poised to win next time if placed correctly. Opus Maximus was snatched-up when mounting a challenge of sorts and may be another to keep an eye on. The overall standard of this was questionable though. Spectiat flipped over in the stalls and took no part, whilst Slugger O’Toole faded tamely.
Prime Defender was given a fine ride by Michael Hills to secure the Listed Cammidge Trophy. A former Free Handicap winner, Prime Defender has not always delivered but did so today. An in-between horse, he needs some knowing and does respond to the right handling, something the underrated Hills has mastered. Pusey Street Lady ran above herself in second. Knot In Wood looks set for a successful spring judging on this showing, as he looked slightly backward. Inxile ran well enough in fifth with his 3lbs penalty, whilst Beacon Lodge, who will surely be better over further, ran with promise in seventh.
The William Hill Lincoln Handicap (Class 2): Was won in taking style by Expresso Star who looks better than a handicapper. Rated 97, he won this in the style of one that is destined for better things. Allowed to take his chance despite the fact the ground was considered borderline, he made short work of some decent handicappers. Zaahid and Flipando were next to finish, ahead of Mia’s Boy and Huzzah in an above average Lincoln. Swop ran no race at all, which after his win in Dubai was something of a surprise.
The maiden was won in a driving finish by Everynight, who had been fourth to Prohibition at Nottingham on his only start as a two-year-old. He inched out Above Average, who battled strongly having looked beaten and it appeared he had got back up. Classically ran well in third considering he looked like a woolly mammoth and was some way from peak fitness. The disappointment was London Bridge who had run so well at Newbury on debut, but who folded tamely in the closing stages to finish fourth. This race was run at a crawl and developed into a sprint, but I would be reluctant to advance that as an excuse for a son of Beat Hollow.
The remaining two handicaps may be concealing future winners but they looked run-of-the-mill events and to be honest energy levels were beginning to sag.
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS
Saint Arch had not given too many clues that he may be up to winning a Class 3 Handicap from a mark of 90. Wins last year at Lingfield and Folkestone did not identify this horse as anything but ordinary, but he did not look ordinary in this. A big long-striding son of Arch, he was prominent throughout and found plenty when challenged. Presumably, a hike in class will be next on the agenda. Royal Executioner chased the winner hard in second with Changing The Guard third. Nawaadi was an uneasy favourite having sweated up at the start. He flopped out of the stalls, picking up several down the straight without ever threatening to play a part in the finish.
The Class 2 Handicap contained few well-treated horses, comprising as it did many that have been busy during the winter. Daddy’s Gift looked high enough from a mark of 84, but she defied the worst draw of all to get up close home from a gallant and hard-working Five Star Junior. He was a credible fifth in a Listed event at Lingfield last week won by Nashmiah. A rating of 97 will make life difficult back on turf. Satwa Street, despite a big weight turn round with Five Star Junior, was again unable to beat that rival. A front-runner, he continues to give the impression he wants five furlongs. Kyllachy Star was the eye-catcher in fifth. Last of all at the turn, he rattled home to finish fifth and will be all the better with this run under his belt and on a more testing track. Blinkered for the first time, Never Lose, who ran in the Fillies’ Mile, looked most unwilling. This did not look a strong race.
Cape Express was all the rage for the Class 2 Roseberry Stakes. Rated 96 after two wins at Wolverhampton, he was punted to a ridiculous price which, to be fair, he almost justified. His was a good effort in third, but it is hard to see how further improvement can be squeezed from a horse the handicapper appears to have flattened. Greylami, hitherto a tricky sort but a course and distance winner, pounced late to snatch the prize from Sweet Lightning. Baylini was an honest fourth. Despite a poor draw, Whitcombe Minister ran badly. After a promising reappearance run at Lingfield, he appears to have bounced to the Moon.
Dansant shrugged off a 3lbs penalty to win the Listed Magnolia Stakes. Delivered late, he got the better of a game Kandidate, who proved hard to pass. Bronze Canyon was third without threatening to win. By Lemon Drop Kid, he lacks size and plugged on in the manner of a horse that wants a mile-and-a-half. He may be difficult to place.
Star Rover made all in the Class 4 event for two-year-olds, pulling away despite veering across the course in the last furlong. Out The Ring was second ahead of Desert Auction and Bould Mover. This did not look much of a race.
At the age of eight, Eisteddfod has been a great servant to his stable. He added to his tally in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes with a game win over Hogmaneigh, who got in front for a few strides. Battle Paint was an interesting third. A one-time Guineas hope when trained in France, this six furlongs will have been on the sharp side and it should freshen him up. The same remark can be levelled at ex-Ballydoyle inmate, Abraham Lincoln who is now with Dandy Nicholls and finished fourth. These two will surely be placed to advantage soon.
Desert Sea took a routine Queen’s Prize from Gala Evening who finished fast to deprive long time leader Meshtri of second.
NAD AL SHEBA RACING RESULTS
GODOLPHIN MILE (Group 2) (Dirt): The culmination of three months’ excellent racing began on World Cup Night with an event for which, appropriately, Godolphin saddled the first two in the betting. Both had won last time on dirt over six but it was felt – certainly in the case of nine-furlong States winner Gayego – that this extra trip would be to their advantage. Two Step Salsa lined up with equal qualifications and for many it was difficult to split the two stable companions. They not only dominated the betting but the finish. With his good draw, Two Step Salsa was in the first two throughout, allowing Dettori to kick at a crucial point. Posted wide, Gayego had to cover extra distance and was niggled some way out. He stuck on bravely, trying hard to shut his stable companion’s lead down, but the race was won at the turn. This should not detract from the performance put up by Two Step Salsa whose pace was evident throughout. Don Renato was third, inches ahead of Summer Doldrums and Brave Tin Soldier, who made up a lot of late ground. Tiz Now Tiz Then ran better than at the last meeting; Art Of War as if he was feeling the effects of a hard desert campaign.
UAE DERBY (Group2) (Dirt): A race that only really concerned two at the business end, once again both trained by Godolphin. In a virtual re-run of the opening race, Regal Ransom made the most of his low draw and was in the first two from start to finish. Sent on early in the straight, only Desert Party was able to monitor him and although gradually reeling him in, could not make it. Desert Party was given every chance, having been no worse than third apparently cruising when it mattered, but his attitude has been questioned prior to this and possibly, it let him down when push came to shove. These two were a long way clear of the third horse, Soy Libriano. Frankie Dettori’s body language afterwards suggested he felt he had lost a race he might have won. As a perfectionist, he is entitled to his opinion, but his judgement, if that is what it was, seems harsh. Several disappointed, most notably Naval Officer who never got into the contest. It would be a surprise if the Americans cannot produce better than these two at Churchill Downs.
DUBAI GOLDEN SHAHEEN (Group 1) (Dirt): With Marchand D’Or unable to handle the surface, this resulted in a titanic struggle between the tough and consistent Big City Man and Indian Blessing. Big City Man used up a lot of energy last time when involved in a scrap with Diabolical early, but had an uncontested lead today. Even so, his toughness was needed to see him through. Restless in the stalls, he then took a false step after a furlong and almost ducked into a rival a furlong later. It is a credit to his determination that when called upon, he kept galloping as one-by-one his rivals felt the pinch. Last to deliver was the American filly, Indian Blessing, who lacked the strength or the speed to grasp the colt. Even so, she has run with utmost credit against a top class sprinter. Her best form is at slightly further and that was possibly her undoing against such a formidable rival. These two were five lengths clear of Diabolical who, as usual, travelled well but lacked the necessary off the bridle. Dirt racing is all about resilience and courage. No disrespect to Diabolical, but, unlike the first two, he lacks that final edge that takes a horse to the precipice and beyond.
DUBAI DUTY FREE (Group1) (Turf): This was a double-tough renewal of this event with any number of possible runners in the line-up. The trip of nine furlongs was a worry for Paco Boy and he never got into the race. One of the stars of the Carnival so far, Gladiatorus, put this field to the sword early, quickening approaching the turn and leaving a high class field toiling. Although he had been enormously impressive last time, this was a rise in class but the style and manner of his victory was identical. For a big horse, a shower of rain beforehand will have helped, as he has pottery but effective action on firm. He had this sewn up half a mile from home and horses cannot make all on turf here! This performance was awesome! Presvis finished from the clouds to take second. He is improving fast. Alexandros was another to flash home late but Gladiatorus had inflicted enough damage to take this lot apart. Vodka should not be dismissed at international level. This trip was on the sharp side for her and she will be better over ten furlongs at least. Archipenko attempted a challenge in the straight but was unable to close. Bankable ran with credit until feeling the strain inside the last furlong. Paco Boy clearly wants a return to seven if possible, a mile as a maximum. Incredibly, for a race containing so much talent, it was ultimately about one horse.
DUBAI SHEEMA CLASSIC (Group 1) (Turf): As always, this was a fiercely contested event, with some seasoned campaigners in the line-up. Front House attempted to make all from a slow pace, but such tactics do not work here. Just as Gladiatorus was awesome when making all, Eastern Anthem – ridden and trained by the same connections – astounded all by giving the field a start and cutting them down from a wide run. In a thrilling finish, he got the better of Spanish Moon and Purple Moon in the dying strides. Apparently, Eastern Anthem has to be ridden this way but it is heart-stopping stuff for those involved. Only now is this son of Singspiel, a one-time Derby hope with Godolphin, realising his true potential. Unbeaten in three races at the Carnival, this was obviously his finest hour as he claimed some notable scalps. The ground he made up and the manner of his win was all quality, although he does roll around a bit. Spanish Moon and Purple Moon were always handy and battled strongly inside the last furlong. Youmzain, so often the bystander at this level, was fourth after a rough run. The decision to replace Richard Hughes with Richard Hills has yet to be justified. Quijano is getting on a bit for competition this stiff; Doctor Dino likewise – both probably finding the way this race was run unsuitable. King Of Rome looked steamed up at the start.
DUBAI WORLD CUP (Group 1) (Dirt): After a dramatic night – a dramatic three months – the meeting culminated in this, the world’s richest race. Described beforehand as being below standard, the fact Well Armed prevailed after only having finished third last year to Curlin, tends to substantiate that. He did win in a fast time, making all and burning his rivals away; but times are often deceptive and when one considers nothing came at him, it could be argued his time was as good as any recorded in this race. Aged six, Well Armed is no more than a classy performer in America but tonight was his night. Gloria De Campeao eventually ran through beaten horses to finish second ahead of Paris Perfect and Muller. My Indy, in a perfect position, travelled well for most of the trip but failed to stay. Snaafy came next ahead of Albertus Maximus, who looked uneasy in the prelims and ran like it. Asiatic Boy was another that ran no sort of race. It is churlish to decry Well Armed but he beat some below-par rivals tonight. There is a long way to go, but those suggesting that Well Armed is a likely Breeders’ Cup winner are being carried away. If not now, they will be in November! And so it is farewell to Nad Al Sheba, as next year the Carnival come from the Meydan course currently under construction. It is a sad farewell. Nad Al Sheba has been quite a ride!
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MARCH 27th
ASCOT:
As expected, Tasheba won the Maiden Hurdle. A distant second at Newbury in a race that has worked out at a lesser level; this was a weak event by any standards. Although not entirely fluent at a couple, Tasheba was too good for Dover’s Hill and persistent flatterer, Whispering Death. He may not find it so easy against stiffer opposition.
How Out The Black went so close in the Class 2 Handicap is something of a mystery. His run is certainly testament to his gritty determination. He was one of the first off the bridle, made a terrible blunder two out, but still led on the run-in, only to be cruelly denied by Briery Fox. It was a shame to see him lose.
Barnhill Brownie ran poorly in the Conditional Jockey’s Handicap but was apparently a gallop or two short.
At FONTWELL, Blazing Desert finally got off the mark. He has developed physically in the last few months and although giving the impression he was having a lark in the Maiden Hurdle – ears twitching as he raced – he looks more a long-term chaser. He is something of a baby at present that could be all right next season.
Hills Of Aran gained a deserved success in the Class 2 Handicap after crossing swords with the likes of Lough Derg and Kasbah Bliss in races he could not win. He made the most of this opportunity to beat Font.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MARCH 26th
SOUTHWELL RACING RESULTS:
You Avin A Laugh appeared to be treading water in the Class 5 Handicap and may be worth another chance. Bearing in mind he owes connections big time after an unsuccessful gamble at Lingfield, this son of Bertolini may well reappear on Polytrack next time, possibly in a claimer.
Rough Sketch was another who looked ill at ease on Fibresand. Not especially well treated just now, this experiment – incorporating a step up in trip and an attempt on this surface – failed; it remains be seen what Plan B, if there is one, turns out to be.
CARLISLE RACING RESULTS:
Auroras Encore was an easy winner of the novice chase. It would appear this is more his level.
Checkerland failed dismally in the Beginners’ Chase, eventually having to be pulled up. The Howard Johnston yard had shown signs of coming into form after the bad weather had meant so many of their horses had missed work. Possibly this was a one off, but it is nevertheless a worrying sign for a stable that has a couple of fancied candidates lined up for Aintree next week.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MARCH 25th
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
No one appeared to have informed Sehoy that he needed to negotiate a bend in the maiden. Making all, he almost ran off the track on the turn, carrying Some The Good with him. Whereas that was the end of Some The Good’s effort, Sehoy got back into stride and was able to grab back the lead inside the final furlong. This was a weak maiden, but the winner did well to defy the laws of science at the expense of Chilly Filly and El Bravo, both of whom were unable to cash in on his antics.
The Class 6 Claimer contained two decent performers and was probably a claimer in name only. Possibly Fremen should have won, but he is developing a habit of dwelling in the stalls. With Dichoh making it at a fair clip, Fremen made it difficult for himself, failing narrowly.
A change of stables may enable Squad to improve on his first season. Fourth in the Class 5 Handicap at the close of play, he could be of interest next time.
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
The Class 5 Maiden looked ordinary. Haakima lasted from a slow front end. Kefalonia made up plenty of late headway to snatch second ahead of a tenderly ridden Christina Rossetti, although it is hard to be enthusiastic about these.
Seek N’ Destroy, a fine big son of Exceed And Excel with little juvenile form, was fancied, backed accordingly and presented the Hills stable with another winner. Always travelling in the Class 5 Maiden, he won nicely. Two geldings filled the minors: Woodlark Island, who got loose beforehand, and Negotiation. The winner and Woodlark Island have now qualified for handicaps. Given a chance by the handicapper they may progress.
Offhand, I am assuming Phoenix Flight was the first Hawk Wing to race over two miles plus on the Flat. That was his assignment last time at Wolverhampton when it appeared stamina was not his undoing. Moving sweetly tonight over a mile-and-a-half in the Class 4 Handicap, he was pushed into a two-length lead with under two to race and just held on. Right Stuff was overhauling him fast close home, but Phoenix Flight has progressed since winning a claimer three outings ago. Although carrying his head at an angle last time, there was little wrong tonight. He has plenty of size and scope and may be the exception to the Hawk Wing generalisation. As for his optimum trip – he is not short of foot – but perhaps that is best left to Sir Mark Prescott.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MARCH 24th
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Reports that Muraweg had been working as well as Debussey at home caused his price to contract drastically in the maiden. Such reports seem somewhat exaggerated; he may have galloped alongside Debussey at some point, but on this evidence is nowhere near as good. Whereas Debussey’s form has a solid look to it, this was a poor race and one Muraweg took his time to win.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MARCH 23rd
WOLVERHAMPTON RACING RESULTS:
The right three horses seemed to figure in the Class 5 Handicap for apprentice riders. Follow The Flag got the better of Obezyana who, despite only having won twice to date and labelled as a horse happy to finish in the ruck, stuck on doggedly once headed, coming back for more at the end. Black Dahlia has run in better company in her time, but this was still a satisfactory reappearance. If this is to be her level she ought to be wining soon, particularly when stepped up in trip.
The London Gang sprang a surprise in the claimer, where form horse and favourite, Obe Gold, could not quite get on terms. Western Art offered no encouragement whatsoever back in last place.
Mark Johnston supplied the obligatory winner on the card in the shape of Hatta Diamond, who narrowly kept Morning Sir Alan from the top spot in the maiden. The runner-up had previously finished fourth to Satwa Gold, Capeability and Hypnotist over this course and distance in a reasonable event. He should win in turn. With Hypnotist beaten pointless by Debussy on Saturday, this run, admittedly in a moderate grade, still points to Debussy being above average.
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
A rare jumping meeting where the Nicky Henderson team headed home with a treble. You’re The Top had an easy task in his novice. Dreamy Sweeney put a couple of unfortunate falls behind him to beat a fancied contender in Balthazar King easily. The Philip Hobbs yard – responsible for Bathazar King – suffered another setback when Supreme Duke, although not beaten far, could only manage third of four behind Tarotino and Soixante in the novice chase. Pepsyrock seemed outstayed in the handicap over two-and-a-half when second to Kew Jumper; but Finian’s Rainbow ended the day on a high for the Henderson camp with an easy win in the bumper. He looks as if he should go on to further success.
First Avenue cut down Cossack Prince’s long lead at Plumpton to get off the mark over hurdles. He ran down the final flight, something he had done on his debut. He was not straightforward on the Flat but at least has won over timber, although how he will react when the going gets tough remains to be seen.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MARCH 21st
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Padlocked, a former inmate of John Gosden’s, was all the rage in the Class 4 Hands And Heels Apprentice Handicap. Last seen in 2007, not a lot was seen of him here. Nine-year-old Fremen won despite a last stride lunge by New Star. El Dececy was third with Solent Ridge and King’s Ranson close up. A fading Alfresco was next to finish. This was not a race to provide much in the way of future clues.
The first of two Listed events was next on the card. Arganil, who has been winning in lesser company but whose form Obe Gold boosted yesterday, improved again to snatch this prize. He is very much on the upgrade. Judd Street, who has been busy in Dubai winning once and running with utmost credit on his other two starts, again ran up to his best. His jockey elected to swing wide on the turn in search of what appeared favoured ground. Judd Street finished strongly without quite getting to grips with the winner. All his recent runs have been over six and he looked as if an extra few yards would not have gone amiss here. Currently rated 106, he may get a chance at Chester, a track he has shown he handles in the past. Judge ‘N Jury ran well enough in third to be of interest on turf when the ground eases. Matsunosuke found things happening a little too quickly and really needs six to show his best. It has been a busy winter for him though and winning on the turf will be tough.
Nashmiah, returning to the track where she recorded her solitary win, stamped her seal on the Listed Spring Cup at the turn and found too much for the chasers. Highly tried last year, she comes from the in-form Clive Brittain stable. She made the 9lbs she received from runner-up, Elnawin, count. He ran with credit considering conditions did not favour him. He ran his two-year-old form pretty much to the pound with fourth-placed Damien who proved effective over this trip. Multiple-winner Smokey Ryder was third, putting up a personal best in the process. Five Star Junior, another at the top of his game, ran his best race against such stiff opposition. Icesolator may better this. Qalahari was not subjected to a hard ride when she appeared to lose her position with a furlong to race. She did not drop away and finished with her jockey looking down throughout the last furlong. She may improve on this if all is well.
WINTER DERBY (Group 3) (Class 1):
It has been quite a week for Scintillo, who lasted home by a whisker to win this big pot after a stroll in the park known as Kempton midweek. Somewhat fractious at the start, not a normal trait of this son of Fantastic Light, he was always in the first four and committed over a furlong out. Premio Loco came to claim him on the run to the line but jinked when making his challenge. With Scintillo running straight as a gun-barrel under a strong ride from Richard Hughes, the partnership just held on. Hughes is of the opinion Scintillo is better over a mile-and-a-half and plans are now for Scintillo to run in such races as the John Porter and the Ormonde. Premio Loco was warm under the saddle beforehand. He travelled well throughout and loomed threateningly inside the last furlong. He stayed this trip all right but maybe lacked the resolution of the winner when it mattered. Bronze Cannon seemed in better shape than when we last saw him in November when frankly he looked awful. A son of Lemon Drop Kid that has not grown since last year, he will never win a prize in the show ring – unlike many of his sire’s stock – but this was more like it from a horse once considered as a Derby possible. The pace slowed after a couple of furlongs, which did not suit a potential stayer like Bronze Cannon. Under the circumstances this was a satisfactory reappearance from a horse representing the John Gosden stable, that has started this year as if they mean business. Halicarnassus was an honest fourth ahead of Without A Prayer, who lined up fit from a Dubai campaign. Kandidate stumbled on the turn as if he had gone wrong but appeared to finish sound.
Debussy was by far the most attractive in the maiden and skittled his opposition. A fit, long-striding son of Dieses, he made all at a sedate pace but wound it up in the last two furlongs to win unchallenged. He could be useful, but we have to be wary of hailing every wide margin winner so early in the year. In second, Light Dubai has a long way to go if she is to justify an Oaks engagement. Hypnotist has not come on for his run at Wolverhampton two weeks’ ago when third to Satwa Gold and Capeability in what had looked a warm maiden. Fromthebeginning was climbing all over the place and refused to settle.
Racing from a 5lbs higher mark and pitched against some exposed types, Sgt Schultz repeated his win in the Class 3 Handicap from last year. In a blanket finish of Portman Park proportions, he clung on from Distinctive Image, with Formation inches away in third. Beaten less than half-a-length back in fourth was Beauchamp Viceroy. A non-winner for two-and-a-quarter years, his three successes have been at Wolverhampton. In between, he has run creditably elsewhere, but a return to Dunstall Park may do the trick. War Of The Roses was snapping at the leaders’ heels in fifth.
Not many got into the Class 2 Handicap won by Abbondanza, a controversial winner last time from fast-finishing Flipando. Red Somerset was pegging him back as the line approached having been perfectly position throughout under his claiming rider. His current mark of 94 is plenty high enough and may be raised further after this. Al Muheer was third ahead of Thebes. Little else was sited although Giganticus turned in a satisfactory reappearance run under a quiet ride. This was not ideal for Aeroplane. He is better coming from behind in small fields rather than being exposed to a rough and tumble handicap such as this. Atlantic Story is too high from a mark of 107.
After the scintillating success of Debussy, Jessie James was backed off the boards in the closing maiden. Facing modest opposition with the exception of Legislate, not been beaten far in the maidens he contested at Newbury and Newmarket last year, Jessie James had every chance but failed to quicken. Legislate battled, and in a tight finish got the better in yet another close struggle. This was a disappointing reappearance from the Gosden horse who is now qualified for handicaps. A fine looking specimen that has done well physically since last year, he may be worth another chance on a more conventional track.
NEWBURY RACING RESULTS:
The current quickening ground threatens to stand jumping form on its head. Stamina won the day in the Juvenile Novices’ Handicap where an in-form Dantari pulled out more than Rory Boy on the run-in. These two were clear of a modest bunch. It would be wrong to attribute Psi’s defeat solely to the ground, even though he probably wants it softer.
In the Class 2 Handicap Chase, Strawberry was game in defeat from a mark of 134, which is probably a few pounds too high. This is her time of year and this was presumably her chance of success. Lightly weighted Lyes Green took the prize.
Ravello Bay was narrowly thwarted in the Listed Mares’ Handicap as Argento Luna completed a big race double for the Sherwood team, earlier successful with Lyes Green.
Riverside Theatre was a comfortable winner of the novice hurdle that followed, although Marc Aurele ran well enough to be of interest next time.
Timmy Murphy found himself in the same position as he was in yesterday on Indian Blood in the Class 3 Handicap. Full of running on Gershwin approaching the last, he sat quiet as a broken clock before nudging his mount to victory on the run-in. The ground may have been riding fast for a son of Alhaarth, as Gershwin hung his head to one side before striding on to win nicely. Philip Hobbs has his team in fine fettle just now.
It is hard to know what he beat, but Oscar Whisky was a lot better than his rivals in the concluding bumper.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MARCH 20th
NEWBURY RACING RESULTS:
Michel le Bon strolled to a facile victory in the Class 4 Novice Hurdle. Having finished third in a good novice over this track behind According To Dick, he was a short price to uphold that form.
On the other hand, in the following maiden hurdle, Fiftyonefiftyone, who had finished second to According To Dick, and in front of Michel Le Bon, was weak in the market and duly back-pedalled on the home turn. Beaten a country mile, something may be amiss. His stablemate, the lesser fancied Mr Gardiner, was a clear winner from Fistral Beach (stablemate of the first winner) who so far has failed to live up to a home reputation.
The inability to jump fences is something of a handicap for a steeplechaser. Oh Braga made some shocking errors on his last visit here and once again looked at sea over the obstacles in the Class 3 Handicap Chase. He eventually stumbled on landing six out sparing all concerned something worse. This is not his game unless his trainer subjects him to some intensive schooling.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Connections of You Avin A Laugh were not smiling after an unsuccessful gamble in the Class 6 Handicap. After three runs, racing from a mark of 60, this gelded son of Bertolini may have been a tad unlucky. As is often the case when horses have dossed in their preparatory races, Avin A Laugh was unsure what was required. Shuffled back and having to mount a wide challenge did not help and he finished fast in third over the minimum trip. A step up to six will help, but obviously, this attempt to land the cash will not go unnoticed.
Kaabari made a successful start to her career in the maiden fillies’ event. Scrubbed along for most of the way, she ran green but justified a market nibble and maintained the current run enjoyed by Clive Brittain. Simplification did nothing wrong in second, but she lacks pace. She should get off the mark soon but remains vulnerable. Handicaps may be a better option.
After a couple of promising efforts as a juvenile, Affirmatively went right off the boil. Now four, a change of stables seems to have in part revitalised her. Second over five furlongs in the Class 6 from a mark of just 47, a step up to six may do the trick next time.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MARCH 19th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Two nice fillies contested the Class 5 Maiden. First and second in the betting, they drew clear to fight out the finish. Coming Back, a well-grown daughter of Fantastic Light, was always moving well and quickened nicely in the last furlong. She had finished sixth to the highly promising and well-regarded Sariska on her solitary outing as a juvenile, which was at Newmarket. The way she and the runner-up pulled away – admittedly from average opposition – lends strength to the argument that Coming Back is well above this standard. The runner-up, Onemix, did nothing wrong but unfortunately for her bumped into one. Dwarfed by the winner, she demonstrated the right attitude but was simply outclassed. This is the third time she has filled the runner-up spot, something she deserves to rectify. This may be her level, whereas the winner will progress.
Shanafarahan, who looked a fortunate winner when losing his maiden at the expense of Zalkhani and Sir Liam last time when seizing the initiative at a vital moment in a slowly run event, doubled his tally under different tactics in the Class 6 Handicap. Gradually gaining ground in the straight, he passed Dan Tucker a furlong out and repelled a strong late effort from ten-year-old Kruggerand. The winner further demonstrates the chance of Sir Liam (engaged Friday) in the near future.
Marmooq, who broke a consistent run when finishing ninth of twelve behind Bee Stinger on Saturday, returned to his best form with a last stride victory from hard to win with Cross The Line. Despite another slow start, Jake The Snake threw down a late challenge which only just failed. He needs to stop this habit of dwelling in the stalls. Golden Prospect showed promise in fourth. After this, his first run since August, he should be sharper next time.
Saltagioo won the Class 3 Handicap with something in hand when beating the well-backed Viva Vetorri. This success confirms the form of the Marco Botti stable, represented by Re Barolo in the Winter Derby on Saturday. It also pays something of a nod to the Lincoln claims of Spectiat, who beat him at Wolverhampton in January.
The feature of the Class 5 Handicap that concluded the card was the extraordinary run of Silver Prelude, who hit the gates running and established a clear early lead. The best part of half a furlong in front down the straight, he tied up to nothing inside the last furlong. Employing such tactics over five may have produced a successful outcome, but he has never won over six. Although unlikely to catch his rivals unawares next time, he may get away with it in this sort of company if a race over the minimum can be found.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MARCH 18th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
The Sunbury track staged a quality card, courtesy of Churchill Downs, who generously helped finance and promote the Class 2 Kentucky Derby Challenge Stakes, guaranteeing the winner a place in the American Classic if connections so wish.
A Class 6 – won by What Katie Did – and a maiden, in which Dunes Queen maintained the current winning run of the Mick Channon yard, preceded the major event. She won nicely from Lighthearted and The Hague, neither of which had shown anything of any merit in their runs leading to this. Dunes Queen had showed promise as a juvenile at Newbury and a 33/1 Guineas quote was slapped on her by Stan James. They are unlikely to be knocked over by such an offer.
The Kentucky Derby Challenge Stakes (Conditions Stakes) (Class 2) featured the usual mix at this time of year of exposed and unexposed types. The from standard was set by Mafaaz, who had finished fifth to subsequent Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Donativum with the likes of Crowded House and Liberation in close contention in a valuable sales race at Newmarket. First-time blinkers were not encouraging, but Richard Hills had chosen him over the money horse, Haashed, a winner of his only start at Lingfield in a fast time. Recent winner and well thought of Akhenaten was another serious contender. There was not a lot to like about Mafaaz beforehand although he did look fit, if a little woolly. The blinkers did not help his overall appearance but he did not appeal as having done well since last year. A son of Medicean, he upheld the form book, underlining that looks are not everything. Hills made a mid-race move to cover the leaders at halfway and Mafaaz was travelling as well as any at the turn. Nudged into the lead, he may have been in the right place at the right time, but won with a shade in hand. It was a rough race. Spring Of Fame, winner of a couple of minor events at Lingfield and Wolverhampton, ran a stormer, having to be switched outside for a run and flashing home fast and late. He may have been unlucky. However, it is possible to take several from this. Sohcahtoa made a brave attempt to make all and only gave best inside the last furlong. Out of trouble throughout, his position of third may have flattered him. Now for the real eye-catcher – Mastery. By Sulami, with only moderate juvenile form to his name after two runs last year, he was next to last after five furlongs, but he worked his way into contention down the straight. He finished strongly in the manner of one that clearly wants further, as his breeding suggests. He can win next time over ten furlongs, and presumably on turf. Weald Park was next to finish, running up to the best of his form. Shampagne, at his best this time last year and on Polytrack, was sixth. Close Alliance ran well to make up plenty of ground before blowing up. The plan is to run him in the Craven. There is a temptation to get carried away when faced with such supposed quality this early in the season, so it is worth bearing in mind that the likes of Shampagne and Weald Park, whilst not denigrating the form, are fully exposed. Akhenaten was chopped in his run but was going nowhere at the time. He may be better than his final position however. Haashed ran too freely from the get-go and understandably dropped away.
DRAGONFLY STAKES (Listed) (Class1): And a chance here for Scintillo to get back on the winning trial after a pleasing third behind Re Barolo and Suits Me last month. Still holding an engagement in Saturday’s Winter Derby, the inference by his inclusion was that connections were prepared to forfeit that opportunity in favour of this. The only slight doubt was the trip of a mile-and-a-half, hitherto not Scintillo’s best distance. Those that castigated his win-to-run ratio were doing him an injustice, as many of the races he has contested have been beyond him. Tonight it was a different story and the excellent Hannon team got their strategy exactly right. Luberon made it a slow early pace but his stable companion, Love Galore tanked his way into the lead and the Johnston duo ran as if chasing a forest fire. Content to let them get on with it, Richard Hughes cruised closer on Scintillo early in the straight. He had to take a pull two out to secure a trouble free passage but once sent on, Scintillo stretched right away. By Fantastic Light, he has proved he gets the trip – at least on this surface – and he could be in for a lucrative season. It would not be the biggest surprise to see him turn out on Saturday. Baylini was in a different league in second, as was the frustrating Big Robert in third.
The Class 5 Handicap looked only average. The handicapper has had his say with Key Regard by putting him up 11lbs for beating Filun. Third was the best Key Regard could manage. Supernoverre, a winner of claimers and closely weighted with Merton Lad, won at his first attempt at a mile-and-half, a trip he was not sure to stay. Second to finish, the long-striding Royal Society, should improve with time. Merton Lad had a messy run. Hampered by Nicky Nutjob and pushed wide on the turn, he did stay on but such an excuse will prove deceptive. He hung into the whip and looks awkward. He should better this fifth, but fluffed a chance in a winnable race and better betting opportunities await.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Head Down made it eleven times lucky in the maiden. Of all horses to beat, in Anacreon, he claimed the scalp of one that had been six lengths adrift in a Newmarket maiden.
In the Class 6 Handicap over a mile-and-a-half, Carlton Scroop landed something of a gamble. Once again, Sir Liam was ridden as if he possessing a turn of foot, which over this trip he does not. Held up, he may as well as stayed in his horsebox. He plugged on to finish fifth, demonstrating for the second time running that he wants a mile-and-three-quarters and to be ridden up with the pace.
Gasat gave a quick boost to Sunset Boulevard when winning the Class 6 Seller.
Well-backed Colour Of Money landed the Class 6 like a horse that can win again.
Volador opened his account in the concluding Flat Race at CHEPSTOW. Given too much to do last time at Sandown, he is still green but travels nicely in his races and looks to have a future.
At WARWICK, a tongue tie, cheekpieces, a left-handed track and faster ground – keep up at the back! – seemed to rejuvenate Shining Gale. With so much in his favour, he was able to thwart West End Rocker in the novice chase.
Gold Award looks a complicated ride. Like most Daylami stock, he seems quirky, which, considering Daylami was straightforward himself, makes little sense! However, his effort in the novice hurdle seemed half-hearted.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MARCH 17th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Nothing’s Easy, an expensive failure last time, made amends to all but his previous backers when inching out the 1/10 shot Conflictofinterest in the novice hurdle. Having pulled too hard and failed to jump a hurdle on different ground last time, this faster surface seemed to suit. It is point well made just now that we are entering a phase of changing ground for the jumpers, meaning many a form line can be turned on its head. This may in part explain the difficulty in nominating winners on this card.
SOUTHWELL RACING RESULTS:
Boscage beat a depleted field in the Class 4 Handicap. His eight-length beating of United Nations did little more than confirm his wellbeing and his ability to handle Fibresand. He looks a decent sort though, already collared to an extent by the handicapper, but chances are he can improve further with experience. This race will have done him nothing but good. He is learning all the time.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MARCH 16th:
KEMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Barry Hills has knocked in a few winners lately and it would appear he has his team in shape for the start of the turf season. He introduced a nice filly in Photographic in the Class 4 Maiden Fillies’ Stakes. A good-sized daughter of Oasis Dream out of a Warning mare with the looks to go with her pedigree, she is still slightly unfurnished. Green at the start, her powerful stride took her to the leaders comfortably. Once overdrive was engaged, she strode clear. She was too good for a fancied Mosqueras Romance – said to have improved since her Wolverhampton debut and fancied in this. Photographic has made a promising start.
Soccerjackpot in part belatedly justified his home reputation when winning the Class 4 Handicap by four lengths. An under-achiever with Alan Swinbank’s stable, he beat Pegasus Again and some rivals seemingly only too happy to let him get on with it. That said if Soccerjackpot has turned a corner now he is with Clive Cox, we may see more of him.
Statute Book maintained a winning run in the Class 4 Handicap, scoring from a mark of 74, defying a 10lbs hike in the process. He has the right attitude, knuckling down in convincing style, although he had little in hand. Allowed to start a massive price in the face of support for Pride Of Manacor, he is still only rated 74 and may record the four-timer if carefully placed. A fair reassessment would be to raise him 4lbs for this, but the handicapper is liable to lose patience and hike him to eighty-plus. In third, Pride Of Manacor will have disappointed connections. However, having appeared outpaced, he closed rapidly in the last furlong. Possibly, he would have prevailed in another 100 yards. He does not have a staying pedigree but may improve for racing over a mile-and-a-quarter and should not be judged too harshly.
TAUNTON RACING RESULTS:
Yetholm won the Class 4 Novice Hurdle in determined style. He is described as an up and coming novice of whom more is expected.
Philip Hobbs, took the bumper with another that showed plenty of potential. Giordano Bruno made light of his penalty (not easy to do in these events) to score by a wide margin. Only Swansbrook was able to match strides from the turn but the strain told and he weakened in the last furlong. Well thought of and impressive last time, Swansbrook provides a decent yardstick. He has a future despite his margin of defeat, as he was the only runner to take a swing at the impressive winner. Plans for Giordano Bruno, described as possibly the best bumper from this powerful stable, are to contest the Aintree Flat race next month. He can certainly gallop.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MARCH 14th:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Sunset Boulevard scrambled home in the seller – a race he should have won with some ease, particularly as the favourite, Benrabeu pulled too hard, which as a result meant he showed little when it mattered. At the finish, it was Turner’s Touch and Gasat that made life difficult. Turner’s Touch was as reluctant as ever, Gasat ran to form.
With only one-and-a-half lengths between the first five in the Class 4 Handicap, this race favoured the fortunate. Badge Of Honour was out in front and in the clear, rallying to hold Gaily Noble. High Cross, unlucky Dubai Storming (will get further) and Tinshu made up the chasing bunch.
Bee Stinger returned to winning form, almost a year to the day since his last success. That had been from a mark of 80 but today’s was 68. Not too much has happened to him in the meantime: he is a year older and no longer capable of winning from a mark of eighty. However, he lined up five or six pounds light today. Having been campaigned over ten furlongs has helped his mark to slide. This trip of a mile suits and, always travelling well, he got the run up the inner and quickened away from Murrin and Royal Envoy.
The median auction looked poor. Chasca, a debutant by Namid, beat True Decision with Volito an awkward-looking third.
Returned to six furlongs should have presented Qadar with an ideal opportunity in the Class 5 Handicap. Now seven, he ran as if the years are catching up as the spark was missing. Possibly he needs seven nowadays. Super Frank beat an in-form Stonecrabstomorrow with Don Pele third.
At UTTOXETER, King’s Revenge, blinkered for the first time and trying 2m6f, has at last reached a decent mark – racing off 125 – having been a victim of his own consistency. The trip was beyond him but round a lesser track and returned to two miles, providing a hard campaign has not left its mark, a race awaits. He probably wants freshening up.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MARCH 13th:
CHELTENHAM RACING RESULTS:
TRIUMPH HURDLE: What a curtain raiser this provided to Gold Cup day. As always, run at a frenetic pace this tested these juveniles to the hilt. The race developed from the top of the hill where Starluck was edging into contention still travelling on the bridle. Walkon, already being pushed along at the third-last, was shuffled back to fifth place on the turn. At this point, on comic relief day, Ebadiyan decided to run out. Luckily, he was on the inside and caused no difficulty. Zaynar, taken to the outside by Geraghty down the far side to keep out of trouble, now turned the pace up a notch. Starluck tried to go with him and somehow, running on fresh air and raw courage, little Walkon battled back to deliver a challenge. Zaynar produced a giant leap at the last; Walkon, less spectacular but effective. With Starluck failing to cope with the hill it was left to the two greys to hammer out one of the finishes of the Festival. Locked in combat, the result looked in doubt until Zaynar’s comparative giant stride proved decisive, possibly winning with a shade up his sleeve against a determined all-out rival. Walkon went down fighting and these two were clear in a fast time. They are quality four-year-olds but it is hard to see Walkon overturning this form. Plans are for Zaynar to be put away for the year. Despite his iron temperament, Walkon had a hard race and a similar course would seem prudent. That leaves Mourad, who finished third under a considerate ride and Starluck as the possibles for Aintree, a course that will suit. Mourad, who is Listed class on the Flat and came here with a progressive hurdling profile, will be an interesting proposition at Liverpool if he makes the journey. Stamina found out Starluck at this course today and such a limitation will always be a worry. Trenchant ran on gamely in fifth, ahead of Reve De Sivola who stumbled on the turn. The first three are potentially as good as any seen in this race for some time. Of the others, one would have to say Ebadiyan would have been in the shake-up. Master Of Arts, after only one run over timber, looked fazed by the experience. No other excuses are apparent for the rest.
COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE (Grade3): American Trilogy arrived at the final flight as if he had just joined in and skipped clear on the run-in. Apparently connections had been waiting for this faster ground and with typical frankness, Paul Nicholls admitted to running him over the wrong trip on unsuitable ground at Ascot when behind Lough Derg. This was a very easy win in what should have been one of the most competitive handicaps of the week. Stradbrook finished strongly up the hill but, in common with the rest of the field, was playing for places. Cockney Trucker, up there throughout despite one mistake on the far-side, finished third ahead of Nortonthorpe Lad. Then came the lightly-raced Kandari, who, being by Kayhasi, is only now racing on his favoured surface despite winning on the soft in Ireland. He is one to keep an eye on if he turns up at Aintree. Fortune favours the brave and it was a brave decision to chase the bonus with Imperial Cup winner Dave’s Dream. Inexperienced and still a baby, his profile was not the obvious one for such an attempt. Niggled some way out, Barry Geraghty was kind on him, only shaking him up on the run-in. It is a tribute to Dave’s Dream that he picked up so well – he is one for next year. Clopf doesn’t seem to get the idea of this jumping game at all, as he forgets to leave the ground over both fences and now hurdles. He decided to walk through the last and it was to Andrew McNamara’s credit that he stayed on.
ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade1) (Class 1): In another barnstorming finish on a day shaping up to etch itself in the memory, Weapon’s Amnesty, in the War Of Attrition colours, crept into contention from a keen pace. Going the best at the turn, he took it up at the last and had to fight to hold on in the face of a renewed effort from Pride Of Dulcote. Weapon’s Amnesty is tough and stays well and according to his rider had something left at the end. It has to be said that was not the impression formed, but either way his was a good performance. This is not Pride Of Dulcote’s track. He fell here last year and once again was untidy at several hurdles. Walsh made a big move approaching the downhill flight and went into a smooth lead. But it is a long way home and Pride Of Dulcote ran about, clattered through the last and apparently had called it a day. Galvanised on the run-in, he fought like a tiger, inching back the lead Weapon’s Amnesty had established. He went down narrowly – conventional tracks will suit him better and he deserves to be marked up for such a sterling effort. He was another that had a hard race but he should bounce back. The Midnight Club was an honourable third for Ireland, ahead of On Raglan Road who, coming from the Johnson stable that has missed weeks of work due to the weather, almost certainly blew up in fourth. He will have another day. Cape Tribulation was the only other to finish within striking distance of the principals.
CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP CHASE (Grade 1): Kauto Star set the seal on one of National Hunt racing’s greatest days. On ground so different from last year’s, he happily jumped these fences in a perfect position on the heels of the leaders. Always in control, when sent on at the turn – plenty early enough – he slipped up a gear and powered over the last two fences, flying the last to treat the packed stands to one of the all-time great performances. The cast of the protagonists from last year was unchanged but the order different. Twelve months is a long time for a steeplechaser; this time the well-documented preparation of Denman meant he lined up with plenty to prove. Sam Thomas gave him a perfect ride, much appreciated by this knowledgeable crowd. Going as well as Kauto Star at the top of the hill, he challenged briefly at the turn, but stride by stride, the race slipped away. He stuck on as well as he could to hold on to second place, which was a great credit to all concerned. The story of the race was a triumph for Paul Nicholls, Ruby Walsh, Sam Thomas and all the staff at Ditcheat associated with two fine chasers. Last year belonged to Denman – this year to Kauto Star. Exotic Dancer, equipped with cheekpieces, made a series of mistakes, starting at the first two then clouting them at indiscriminate intervals. He ran on for third ahead of the pacesetter, Neptune Collonges who would have been happier on a more testing surface. However, he is not quite the class of the first two. My Will was fifth, ahead of Roll Along. Barbers Shop was sweating beforehand but settled well in the race. In the main, his jumping was sound. Still in with a squeak at the top of the hill, he ran like a non-stayer. Madison Du Berlais looked ill at ease over this track and backed off quickly. Air Force One was somewhat disappointing. He jumps well but is not this class. Even so, he should have beaten more than one horse home. He had some flotsam and jettison in front of him and the suspicion has to be all is not well.
MARTIN PIPE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS’ HANDICAP HURDLE (Class 2): As befitted the race title, the Pipe yard made a concerted effort to win this. Mamlook, in front of the County Hurdle winner at Ascot when fourth to Lough Derg, looked the most likely contender although the team was strong. It included recent Sandown winner, Big Eared Fran. Gaspara dived at the second and unseated. She was simply travelling too quickly. Andytown supplied something of a surprise from the 100/1 shot Midnight Chase in one of the weaker events of the week. Big Eared Fran appeared to be swinging two out but maybe this run came too soon after Sandown. Font was fourth and Presenting Copper fifth. They were well-strung out after that. Mamlook clipped heels at the top of the hill, which cost him momentum, but he recovered to appear to have a chance. However, a combination of that incident and possibly this trip of an extended two-and-a-half proved too much. He remains one to keep an eye on.
GRAND ANNUAL CHASE (Grade 3) (Class 1): The leaders took no prisoners here on ground that was bordering on good. As a result, mistakes started to surface in the last half of the race. We started the day with a cliff-hanger of a finish and ended it the same way. Over the last two fences, the race concerned a rejuvenated Moon Over Miami and Oh Crick. A slight jink at the last gave Moon Over Miami a second chance and one he did his best to capitalise on. Bravely though he battled, Oh Crick Zaynared him. French Opera stayed on strongly despite nearly falling three out, with Tramantino in fourth. His run confirms the resurgence of the Nigel Twiston-Davies team.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MARCH 12th:
CHELTENHAM RACING RESULTS:
JEWSON NOVICES’ HANDICAP (Listed Race) (Class 1): After a relatively light season, Chapoturgeon, stepping up in trip, landed something of a gamble for connections. An ideal partner for Timmy Murphy, who let him settle into a rhythm and worked him into the race gradually, a spectacular leap at the last sealed it. A twenty-runner handicap round here is not for the fainthearted, either equine or human. They went hard early and it was noticeable the finishers from off the pace were the principals. Isn’t That Lucky deprived Crescent Island of the runner-up spot late. Northern Alliance was a never-nearer fourth with Straw Bear, who had worked his way into the race apparently going well as they began the downhill run, predictably unable to find any extra in fifth ahead of Tranquil Sea. Pancake was the next to finish. Kia Kaha and Naiad Du Misselot were let down by their jumping. Astrador probably failed to stay after a prominent show until the top of the hill.
PERTEMPS FINAL (Handicap) (Listed Race) (Class 1): Kayf Aramis, a stalwart stayer on the Flat, grabbed this outstaying Buena Vista. This was a dour performance from a horse at his best at the likes of Pontefract. Buena Vista looked likely to pick him off from two out but hard though he battled, was unable to overhaul Kayf Aramis. Pennek, who had a few pounds to find with some of these, came there steaming up the hill, finishing an excellent third in first-time blinkers. The Sliotar was an unconsidered fourth. In fifth, Green Mile did well considering he made a terrible mistake at halfway. He is the sort to poach a decent handicap either here or in Ireland before the end of the season. Scriptwriter was prominent for a long way. He lacked the pace from the turn, but was not stopping back in sixth; so it is hard to say lack of stamina was his undoing. Perhaps lack of strength prevented him from quickening from the turn. 2m 4f may suit him better, as will Aintree. Still a maiden over hurdles; he will surely rectify that statistic before long. Not for the first time, Don’t Push It got warm in the prelims. Big races are not his forte and in any event, it is likely he failed to stay. Galient ran okay up to a point, although this was too much like hard work for him and he drifted away from the turn.
RYANAIR CHASE (Grade 1): Along with the majority of the stable’s runners that have been under a cloud, Imperial Commander has spent most of the season in the wilderness. After his emphatic Paddy Power success, he was a desperate flop in the King George (admittedly failed to stay but still ran an awful race), but he came back to the scene of his greatest triumph today to upset Voy Por Ustedes. This was a hard fought victory by a tough horse in the firing line from a long way out. He received a great ride from Paddy Brennan who is an Irishman in the McCoy, Walsh, Murphy, Geraghty and Carberry class. Once in front, Imperial Commander was not about to relinquish his lead. Voy Por Ustedes is slightly overrated. Two mistakes, particularly the second at the downhill fence, made his task all the harder. Jumping the last looking a spent force, he clawed his way back courageously to take second. Schindlers Hunt hung on to third with Tidal Bay making up a good deal of ground in fourth. Never travelling, Tidal Bay missed out a couple and looked a million turning in. He has done this before, often running in snatches, but he made up so much ground after what was apparently an interrupted preparation that it is tempting to think a big win remains on the radar. Gwanako confirmed Voy Por Ustedes ran pretty much to form allowing for his mistake. Monet’s Garden is no good round here and Old Vic dropped away tamely.
WORLD HURDLE (Grade1): Big Buck’s, a last fence faller in the Hennessy after looking every inch a chaser last season – most notably at Aintree – came back to upset the major players in this. He chased Punchestowns, on whom Geraghty attempted to slip the field on the turn. Going to the last, these tactics looked decisive. On the haul up the hill, Big Buck’s and Punchestowns pulled clear to battle it out in gladiatorial style. Although untidy at the last, Big Buck’s – a bull of a horse – had the necessary strength, but Punchestowns fought back. Powerstation, who runs this track so well, outstayed Kasbah Bliss for third, turning in a personal best. Kasbah Bliss loomed on the run down to the turn but this track is not ideal for him and he failed to pick up. We saw too good young stayers today who will presumably be around for some time to come.
FREDDIE WILLIAMS HANDICAP CHASE (Grade 3): On quickening ground, this chase was x-rated stuff for viewers. Half the field exited one way or the other and there were some horrible falls. Blinkered for the first time, Silverburn ran freely for a circuit but was soon backtracking. Ping Pong Sivola went clear from the top of the hill. Eventually it was a duel between her and stablemate, Something Wells, who got the better of the mare in the closing stages. Notable D’Estruval stayed on for third ahead of Three Mirrors, Cossack Dancer and Finger On the Pulse. This was a desperate event one way or another, but a great result for Venetia Williams who was responsible for the first two.
FULKE WALWYN CHALLENGE CUP HANDICAP (Class 2): One of the lesser events at this Festival which, considering the name attached to its title, is something of a travesty. Character Building was always travelling strongly. Maximum effort was not required to seal this from Pretty Star (another good run from one of Venetia Willams) and Newbay Prop. There were plenty in with a chance from the last, including the strongly-fancied Poker De Silova who finished seventh but was not beaten far.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MARCH 11th:
CHELTENHAM RACING RESULTS:
It was a case of last man standing in the National Hunt Challenge Cup. The last circuit sorted the field out in its usual relentless fashion. Tricky Trickster, who has always looked as if he wants a trip, was nevertheless taking something of a leap when attempting four miles for the first time. After plenty of carnage, Tricky Trickster was in front before the turn and just as he looked cooked, kicked on again to outstay his rivals and win by ten lengths. Drumconvis was second ahead of proven stayer, Nine de Sivola, a horse that had disappointed on his last two runs. Can’t Buy Time, hacking along as if on a Sunday outing, looked the winner for most of the final circuit. Produced at the turn with his jockey motionless, he began to tread water between the last two fences and finished legless. Clearly, he failed to stay this trip. Hennessy was up there throughout and ran above himself in fifth. Once well thought of, problems have hampered his career but he could be on the way back. It was a fair way to sixth-placed Kornati Kid who failed to get into a rhythm and made error after error. It was to his credit he was still in contention at the top of the hill. He will better this on a more conventional track.
BALLYMORE NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade 1): Mikael D’Haguenet, impressive in his last three victories in Ireland, took this hike in class with a similar style of win. Described as a machine by Ruby Walsh – not a man to get carried away – he looked as good as any novice we have seen. He put a strong field to the sword here making any would-be future challengers fearful. Karabak did well to finish second under the circumstances. Never looking comfortable, he made a mistake at the middle flight down the far side, was being shoved throughout the final three-quarters of a mile but responded to chase the winner. Diamond Harry, still not the finished article, lost an unbeaten record but went out on his shield. Held up and produced to lead two out, he ran to his left before a mistake at the last did not help. He will be better next year. China Rock, second to Go Native at Punchestown in December, Knockara Beau and The Nightingale were the next to finish. Mad Max was a major letdown. Having given the impression this trip would suit, he moved and jumped perfectly until wobbling on the turn. Having had a breathing operation and fitted with a special bit today, it is not conclusive that the trip was the sole reason for his flop.
RSA CHASE (Grade 1) – formerly the Sun Alliance: The Irish go from strength to strength this year and in the shape of Cooldine, they produced another awesome contender. It looks as if they have much greater firepower than we can muster. Having beaten Forpadydeplasterer oveer 2m 5f at Leopardstown last time, the form is obviously solid. Cooldine travelled superbly here from a fast pace, hopping over the fences and tanking into the lead at the turn to clear away. Not much to look at, he is well put together, neat and nimble over his obstacles, and if all remains well with him, looks a serious Gold Cup contender for next year. In a race that was all about stamina, Horner Woods passed several weakening rivals to finish second. Massini’s Maguire gave it a go but ran out of gas in the closing stages. Carruthers was responsible for a ruthless gallop. He did not get every fence exactly right but was spectacular at some. A jolting mistake three out sealed his fate and he finished on fresh air. What A Friend was struggling from some way out. Despite his record at this track, he could not operate effectively at such a breakneck pace. Beaten at the top of the hill, he did not stop trying but finished a weary sixth of the six from fifteen that survived.
QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE (Grade 1): This was not Master Minded at his best but he was in little danger of being beaten in running. There were two false starts because of a lit-up Marodima, who had to be led up and then proceeded to tear off as if on fire, bashing his way through the early fences until running out of steam. Master Minded turned up the heat at the top of the hill with a great leap and quickened the pace on the run down to the straight. Only Well Chief and Newmill remained on the bridle, but Well Chief was bustled shortly afterwards and, at the age of eleven, Newmill was not going to raise his game too much. Master Minded did not take this field apart but won like the proper horse we know him to be. Well Chief got up for second on the run-in and his was a fine effort considering this was his first race for two years. Now ten, although the Pipe team can take credit for producing him in such fine shape, his options are limited. To be fair, if he can replicate this run, a step up to two-and-a-half would probably be in his favour. Petit Robin ran as well as could be expected. He made a hash of one fence down the far side and was run out of second on the climb to the line. Newmill was fourth, ahead of Scotsirish who surely requires further. Briareus took a crunching fall at the last, which he did not deserve. Big Zeb fell heavily at the top of the hill. The rest were out of their depth.
CORAL CUP (Handicap Hurdle) (Grade 3): With half the field out of the handicap and the weights headed by Lough Derg and Franchoek, the race did not have that stick-a-pin in it look that it often carries. Well, although not on my short list, Ninetieth Minute was one of the leading contenders in the betting, and provided yet another success for the Irish. Only carrying 10st 3lbs from a mark of 140, he stayed well to land a hat trick. Mirage Dore, the last horse in the handicap proper, laid down the final challenge to finish second. Pause And Clause, being 5lbs out of the handicap, ran from a mark of 137. Having finished behind Mad Max who was so disappointing earlier, his finishing place of third (looked a possible winner at one stage), makes the run of Mad Max all the more perplexing. The lightly-raced Star Of Angels, who had finished fifth in last year’s Triumph Hurdle but is still a maiden over hurdles, ran fourth despite being 8lbs wrong. He could be Aintree bound. Also-rans include The Polomoche, who ran well until possibly running out of stamina. Likewise, Psycho probably failed to see out the trip, particularly faced with such a blistering pace. Lough Derg was asked one question too many, Franchoek does not look the same horse this year and Pierrot Lunaire, after such a promising run last time, was soon retreating. He is another that may do better at Aintree dropped back in trip.
FRED WINTER JUVENILE NOVICES’ HANDICAP HURDLE (Grade 3):
Silk Affair took the honours and rattled up her fourth consecutive win for an unfashionable yard. Hers was a major success, although she will be drastically reassessed after this. Those of interest came from higher up the weights. Ski Sunday finished strongly up the hill for second. Saticon was another to run with a great deal of credit. He seems to be improving as the season progresses and for better ground. The heavily backed Alexander Severus approached the last apparently cantering but failed to quicken. A big, raw-boned horse, he looks as if he has some filling out to do. Indian Groom was in the firing line throughout the closing stages and signalled a possible major revival from the Howard Johnson yard. They have two interesting runners tomorrow in Astrador and possibly Scriptwriter. Mention must be made of Mr Thriller who headed the weights from his mark of 145. After his effort in the Imperial Cup on Saturday, finishing sixth here was no mean feat and paid tribute to Dave’s Dream and Seven Is My Number. Murdered for room at the turn, he kept fighting. Although he remains a tricky horse to place, there is no doubting his resolution. A rest would be in order for him after these two quick punishing runs.
WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER (Grade 1):
Three horses were travelling on the bridle turning for home and, although not always the case in such races, they filled the first three places. National Hunt Flat horses often merely plug on at one pace, but here they found enough when let down to keep them in contention. The winner, Dunguib, looked better and better after having been urged clear on the turn. He turned the race into a mockery of an event, providing Ireland with yet another winner in a race dominated by raiders from across the water in both numbers and as far as the result was concerned. Some Present and Rite Of Passage were the other two to occupy the places. Irish horses filled the first eight places; it looking a long way back to the Paul Nicholls trained, Pepe Simo, who was an embarrassing ninth and the first home-trained horse to figure.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MARCH 10th:
CHELTENHAM RACING RESULTS:
SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade 1):
The first bubble of the meeting popped rather loudly as Cousin Vinny, backed despite so many negatives, finished fifth without threatening. Only small, he was edgy and sweaty at the start and is an ordinary-looking type. With a well-documented bad trip over, he may better this in time but was not good enough today. His jumping could be sharper. Ireland claimed the prize with Go Native, a consistent professional that has not been out of the first two in his last seven runs. Always cruising under a typical Paul Carberry master-ride, daring to stick to the inner and jumping well, he took it up at the turn, so strongly was he moving. None too fluent at the last, he began the long haul up the hill with Medermit bearing down fast and late. Go Native found that vital extra in the closing stages to keep the late rattle of Medermit at bay. Carberry stated he hit the front too soon as he was going so well, feeling when the gap appeared he had to take it. All credit to the runner-up who laid down a serious challenge from the last but just failed to get up. Somersby finished an honourable third with Copper Bleu turning in an improved effort on anything so far seen in fourth. His stable fancied him to place today so he may be worth keeping in mind. After Cousin Vinny, Red Moloney was in the bunch in sixth. These were clear of Shoreacres, Ainama, who ran well for a long way but got tired, and the four-year-old Torphichen.
ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY (Grade 1):
A second success on the day for the Irish as Forpadydeplasterer dug deep for Barry Geraghty in a rough race. In a close finish, after a massive leap at the last, he held on from Kalahari King, who stepped up markedly on any form shown. The winner has been on the periphery of top class form since going chasing and had his moment of glory today. Planet of Sound made a series of mistakes on his way round, but stayed on strongly. Inexperienced over fences, and a horse that will improve for an extra couple of furlongs – things happened too quickly in this – he is one to follow. Made In Taipan was fourth. Of the remainder, Tartak ran better than the bare form in fifth having not got the best of runs. In seventh, Cornas looked all set to play a major part in the finish until pecking at the third last. He is another that can make his mark at a lesser level. I’msingingtheblues and Follow The Plan (made mistakes) were clear of the next group headed by Calgary Bay who seems at his best in small fields. Tatenen fell at the third. He went off favourite having lost the weight allowance that his age gifted him up to the turn of the year.
WILLIAM HILL TROPHY HANDICAP CHASE (Grade 3): This was a major triumph for all connected with Wichita Lineman. Jonjo O’ Neill laid him out after a light chasing campaign and Tony McCoy provided a brilliant ride. Two serious errors should have put paid to any chance this horse had. Most other riders would have come off at some point; somehow, McCoy’s sixth sense kept the partnership in tact and then, jumping the last in third, his strength galvanised Wichita Lineman to snatch this in the shadow of the post. Fourteen pounds lower over fences than hurdles; this was a big step up on his three chasing outings so far. Maljimar was the victim, having looked to have secured the race when two lengths clear on the run-in. Nenuphar Collonges ran his usual honest race in third ahead of Dear Villez. The Sawyer cut out much of the running but was a distant fifth. Beaten a fair way in the end, Comply Or Die, in blinkers for the first time this season, ran a much better race than he has since winning last year’s National. The suspicion is that the handicapper is still in charge.
CHAMPION HURDLE (GRADE 1):
Blue Bajan was on the verge of boiling at the start; Sublimity also, Binocular on his toes but fit and sharp, Osana in first-time blinkers and Whiteoak the paddock picks.
The race was run at breakneck pace. With three front-runners in the field: Osana, Hardy Eustace and Celestial Halo, there was no respite. First an over-free Osana, (why the blinkers?) then Hardy Eustace failed to sustain the gallop, but last year’s Triumph Hurdle winner, Celestial Halo, clung on in a war of attrition from the turn. Punjabi came to challenge, whilst all the time Binocular was stalking the front two. In a desperate slog up the hill, Punjabi – a seasoned warhorse on the big occasion – battled as his year-younger rivals pressed him. Celestial Halo is made for this place. He jumps, gallops, and does not stop. He went down by a whisker. The feature of Binocular’s performance was his slick jumping. McCoy did not let the leaders get away from him but when pulled out at the last, Binocular was only able to whittle down the lead of Punjabi and Celestial Halo. He was getting there by the stride under maximum pressure, ending up in front just after the line. The three principals had hard races and it remains to be seen whether they will recover in time for Aintree or even Punchestown. Crack Away Jack made up an enormous amount of ground to snatch fourth. This was without doubt his best performance in a race that, not for the first time at Cheltenham, levelled established form. This was a cruel example of the enigma that is Cheltenham. No computer could have predicted this result. Miurhead was fifth with last year’s winner Katchit unable to do any more in sixth. Snap Tie made up ground to finish eighth. They were too good for him but he can win a decent race over hurdles before making his mark as a chaser next season. The old guard, in the shape of Hardy Eustace, Sublimity and Brave Inca, could not mount realistic challenges. Ashkazar was disappointing, as was Whiteoak. Neither could have been expected to win but should have run better that they did.
Quevega crowned a great day for the Irish in the David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle. The Duke would have approved of her win; although she has some quirks as the cotton wool was in the ears and she was reluctant to line up. In the race, she moved with silky smoothness to power away from legless rivals left toiling in her wake. The winning margin over United was fourteen lengths. This pays the second compliment of the day to Hurricane Fly, who had beaten this mare in France as well as Supreme winner, Go Native. Gaspara, a mare who comes to hand at this time of year, turned in a satisfactory effort on this, only her second spin of the season. She should be sharper at Aintree.
TRACK NOTES
SATURDAY MARCH 7th:
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
The Grade 3 Handicap Hurdle looked a rough and tumble affair. The trip of 2m 4f found plenty out. One of many well-fancied and backed contenders, Keki Buku was travelling so well at the turn, he looked all over the winner but failed to see it out and finished fifth. A return to two miles should make a difference. Big Eared Fran, a course winner when creating an impression in a hot bumper last year but now with David Pipe, galloped on strongly in the closing stages to deny Bakbenscher. What A Buzz justified stable support in third; he is another that relished the trip. Burton Point ran well considering he was clumsy at a couple of flights and involved in minor scrimmaging on the turn. Formerly a remote third to According To Dick when conceding a penalty, in finishing fourth from a mark of 135 today, he did that form no harm. Burton Port stayed this trip well and should recoup losses, especially when he sharpens up his hurdling.
After some untidy early jumps, once woken up by McCoy, it was fencing that won the Class 3 Handicap for Fresh Air And Fun. Idling and looking a tricky ride at times, he stayed on well enough to record his first win over three miles.
Dave’s Dream took another step toward his predicted future when winning the Imperial Cup. Dropped to a mark of 130 after an unfortunate experience in a valuable handicap at Ascot, he was able to produce the goods today. Loping along in the slipstream of the leaders, he was brought wide by Geraghty to race on the better ground but this only smoothed his passage rather than sealing it. He eventually won easily and looks useful. It always looked significant that Nicky Henderson seemed intent on shunning the novice route with this fellow who has justified that plan, proving in the process he is well handicapped. This had the look of a strong race with four unexposed types dominating. In second, the heavily backed Seven Is My Number did not get the run of the race and would have made the winner earn his corn had things panned out differently; however he would not have won. Last approaching the turn, chopped for room, then picking off rivals on-by-one, he expended most of his energy getting into a challenging position. Described as a difficult horse to train (his hurdling was not always fluent), this was meant to be his day; he just bumped into one. Prince Taime stayed on well for third ahead of Mr Thriller who, with a lump of weight for a four-year-old, battled on determinedly to hold on for fourth having forced the pace. With a mark of 145, he will not be easy to place. Numide was hard to fancy given he was running from a career high mark, although apparently he did carry some stable confidence. It proved misplaced and he was never seen with a chance.
There may have only been four runners in the Class 3 Novices’ Chase but three of them were potentially decent performers. Only Kinkeel was outclassed. Deep Purple, trying to concede 4lbs to his rivals, produced something of a horror show at his fences. Stuttery over the first, then giving a couple of obstacles too much air, he battered through the first on the far side before taking chances at the ditch, the water and two of the railway fences. Still in front on the turn, he saw off Restless D’Artaix, but the confidently ridden Song Of Songs easily picked him off on the run-in. The weight concession was not instrumental in Song Of Song’s victory as he jumped well throughout and is a class act on his day. How Deep Purple stood up is a mystery, but hopefully his connections have now learned he needs time between his races.
Dominican Monk, at the age of ten, was a comfortable winner of the Class 3 Handicap. This was not much of a race in truth and it might be we have seen the best of the winner.
WOLVERHAMPTON RACING RESULTS:
Beckermet and Philario set the Listed Race up for a finisher as they blazed from the stalls over seven furlongs. There were time-biders aplenty. Bonus failed to close and appears a shadow of his former self. Vitznau and Ceremonial Jade played their cards down the straight, the latter getting the better of a head-bobber. Aeroplane came there swinging but lacked the determination of the front two.
Those that backed Changing The Guard in the Class 4 Handicap knew what they were doing. Despite pulling harder than ideal, and having to pass his four rivals in the straight, he finished off strongly from a mark of 78 and looks the sort to win again.
It was a case of justice being done in the Class 2 Lincoln Trial Handicap when Flipando put an unlucky run last time behind him to land the spoils. Held up by Jamie Spencer but closer to the pace this time, he had the leaders in his sights down the straight. Pulled wide to attack, he was quickly on top. Habitual runner-up Ace Of Hearts (now ten so can be excused) finished second with Whitcombe Minister – described as a Group horse by his former trainer – an eye-catching third. Now with the excellent Marco Botti and having his first outing since October, this was an encouraging return to action. His mark of 92 should not be altered much, if anything, and a successful spring campaign looks likely.
Matsunosuke’s present winning run was halted by a mark of 112 and a well backed Thebes in the Class 2 Handicap. In fact, Matsunosuke was never in the hunt and a rest would seem in order.
There were two strong messages in the maiden over a mile. Satwa Gold spoiled the party by springing a surprise, although at a purchase price of 210,000gns, he probably could have paid for the whole field. Capeability, the first of the messages, was second on what was his fourth attempt. Then came Hypnotist, the other message horse, who had been fourth at Newmarket in July on his sole outing. Morning Sir Alan and If You Knew Suzy completed a bunch of five that pulled clear. Winners should emerge from this.
That grand old campaigner, Salute, beat decent rivals over his favoured trip of 1m 6f in the Class 4 Handicap – no mean achievement for a ten-year-old who has contested claimers in his time. Pass The Port, Eighteenfifty and Wind Flow were next to finish.
TRACK NOTES
FRIDAY MARCH 6th:
SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:
A quiet day’s racing on the run-up to Cheltenham. Nicky Henderson’s team had their wellbeing endorsed with the stable achieving a double. Don’t Tell The Wife got the better of a tight scrap in the Class 3 Handicap Hurdle. Tanks For That looked another useful recruit to hurdles when beating Cracboumwiz tidily. It was seven lengths back to stablemate, Ravello Bay. In between, Robert Thornton gave Busy Isit a tremendous ride to win the Class 3 Handicap Chase. Picking up from a mistake at the first, harried by a loose horse in the closing stages, both horse and rider had every excuse to duck out but they stuck to the task with admirable grit.
AYR was a shambles – WINCANTON produced nothing of merit.
Hunt The Bottle ran well enough in the apprentice handicap at Wolverhampton to suggest his turn is near in this sort of grade.
TRACK NOTES
THURSDAY MARCH 5th:
NAD AL SHEBA RACING RESULTS:
This excellent card opened with a Listed Race. In truth, the result was hard to find but the one thing that we could hang our hats on was that Jose Adan was not one to take a short price about. Quick to down tools on his only outing here three weeks’ ago, transferred to dirt and wearing a visor for the first time, the writing was on the wall beforehand for those prepared to read it. Jose Adan ran in snatches, eventually finishing a laboured second without ever looking likely to win. The race went to Soy Libriano, whose form in Uruguay and Argentina on dirt at least proved he handled the surface. His stable fielded three runners here; judging by the betting and the jockey bookings this fellow was not the pick. We are unlikely to see any of these again, so further comment on what was almost certainly the poor man at this banquet of racing is superfluous.
Super Thursday shifted up a gear with the Conditions race on turf featuring the fourth from last years Breeders’ Cup Juvenile and winner of his only start in Dubai, City Style. His attitude had not totally convinced last time, and in Liberation and Naval Officer, he faced two serious rivals. City Style was backed as if defeat was not an option. Confidently ridden after a start that suggested he was none too keen to get involved, Dettori brought City Style wide for an emphatic success. Liberation travelled well throughout and hit the front momentarily, but was unable to resist the strong run of the winner. Using Donativum as a yardstick, City Style has improved since last year. He had too much pace for Liberation who has run well on his reappearance and should have a decent season. Naval Officer stayed on the take third with Balcarce Nov [second to City Style three weeks’ ago] in fourth. This was strong form.
The Group 3 over six furlongs on dirt promised to provide a match between last year’s winner, Diabolical, and the ex-American, Big City Man. Diabolical came into this with placed form at Group 1 level. Big City Man, although perhaps lacking the strength of the form of Diabolical, had won five of his last six starts. It was easy to see why as he is one tough cookie. Bustled along, whereas Diabolical was coasting, when it came to a rumble Big City Man kept battling, eye-balling Diabolical out of the issue. However, with nothing left to give, Gayego, on whom Ted Durcan had been biding his time, ran down Big City Man late. Diana’s Choice turned in a mighty effort to finish fourth ahead of Change Alley and a fast-finishing Artimino, who could probably do with a bit further. Gayego maintained a cracking Carnival for Godolphin. He has won over nine furlongs on dirt in California so it is hard to know what to make of this success against sprinters. Certainly, he was not shooting at fish when beating Big City Man, although the cards were dealt to him as they went so hard up front. That should not detract from an emphatic success from a horse that presumably wants further. It seems fair to say Diabolical does not always find a great deal at the end of his races.
Snaafy made it four from five on dirt as he passed his biggest test to date in the Group 3 over a mile. He travels especially well on this surface and is an effective closer, as he maintains a long steady run from midfield. Honour Devil had cut out the running, providing the perfect target for Snaafy to aim at. Against a horse that has probably seen his best days, Snaafy packed the bigger punch, winning without too much fuss. He is still improving. Honour Devil probably did too much early but would not have beaten the winner anyway. Green Coast, who was second to My Indy two races ago, was third. He confirmed form with Don Renato. Predictably, Stubbs Art did not fancy this, whilst Lucky Find is yet to convince this year and Echoes Rock remains unproven on dirt.
The Group 2 City Of Gold went to a filly in Front House. Beaten by a moderate crop of fillies in the Cape Verdi and the Balanchine, there is nothing wrong with her attitude and this step up in trip brought about considerable improvement. Once she hit the front in the straight, they queued up to take her on, but she kept sticking her neck out to take some notable scalps. Qiujano is a terrific advertisement for connections. A winner of this two years’ ago when at his zenith, now aged seven, he continues to make his presence felt in top international company. He harried Front House throughout the final furlong but could not get to her. King Of Rome was another to benefit from this longer trip and finished third just ahead of Purple Moon. Despite his record, it seems a long time since Purple Moon won his last race, which was the Ebor in 2007. In fact, he has only won three times in total. He may have needed this, flattening out in the closing stages. Kings Gambit was another to show improved form over this trip and finished fifth. Macarthur may be better on softer ground but perhaps is not up to this class anyway. Mourilyan possibly found this run coming too quickly after last week’s exertions and this trip could be on the sharp side nowadays. He crept closer down the straight without threatening to play a hand in the finish.
As the commentator exclaimed: The Boy is back! Asiatic Boy stalked a revitalised Happy Boy down the straight to nail him inside the last furlong in the Group 2 Invasor Stakes on dirt. This was a great race with the two protagonists giving everything in a typical dirt finish. Asiatic Boy had run a luck-lustre race last time but this showed him at his best. Happy Boy dug deep after travelling strongly but was always fighting a losing battle despite fighting back when headed. These two were a few lengths clear of the tough Art Of War, and have paid a major compliment to My Indy who had beaten them both last time. In fourth, Kirklees handled the dirt but it seems he is better on turf as that vital ingredient of being able to grind out the finish was missing. He should be back amongst the winners in this country after a suitable break. Tiz Now Tiz Then was always flat to the boards and, although at least seven pounds short of these on ratings, was a little disappointing after a good run last time behind Dijeer.
The Jebel Hatta – Daaher (Group 2) over nine furlongs was run at an unflinching pace as Jay Peg and Russian Sage forced it from the outset. Against the run of play, they stayed there until the last few strides when Balius – a globetrotter with excellent overall form – swooped to victory. Jay Peg and Russian Sage clung on to each other like limpets, dead-heating for second, inches ahead of Impongi. Then we had the unlucky story of the race. The mare, Vodka, was a hostage to fortune having been locked away on the rail, unable to secure a run until it was too late. This was a nightmare for her Japanese jockey, Yutake Take, who could never angle the mare into position.
So that is it from Nad Al Sheba until the pomp of World Cup Night. As always, the racing has been spectacular, particularly for the time of year, although some results took a lot of finding.
At WOLVERHAMPTON, Akhenaten justified stable confidence. The manner of his win in the conditions event explained the withdrawal of his stable companion, Canwinn. Highly tried last year, but now pitched in at a more realistic level, he was always moving nicely at the rear of the field before being sent about his business. With only a maiden win at Chester to his name, he has some way to go to run up to a rating of 94, but this son of High Chaparral has apparently made considerable improvement during the winter.
Spectiat continues to thrive. Looking in trouble for a moment down the straight, he soon cleared away when extricated to register his hat-trick, beating a decent field comfortably. His winning run started from a mark of 78 and he won this from 87. That looks set for a revision in the mid-nineties after tonight. Dream Of Fortune snatched second close home from Tourist, whose turn must be close at hand.
The concluding maiden lacked any real depth. The favourite, Hatta Diamond, appeared too green to do himself justice, whilst National Monument found little at the end of his race. Already gelded and not much of a looker, he disappointed last time when a weak finisher behind Badge Of Honour. This was his third run for a mark and he may improve for a reduction in trip. He should be considered if contesting an appropriate handicap next time.
TRACK NOTES
WEDNESDAY MARCH 4th:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
The Class 6 Apprentice Handicap went, appropriately enough, to Alfredtheordinary. If he can be restrained, it is possible to advance a case for Suhayl Star next time. On the small side, scrappy to look at but not devoid of ability, he pulled too hard early but stuck on having expended a good deal of energy. If he learns to settle, he can win something.
After the tension of the apprentice handicap, came the Class 6 Claimer. Considering he was nudged wide on the bend, Phoenix Flight did well to win with authority. He quickened in the manner of a horse that has potential to progress. A good-sized four-year-old gelded son of Hawk Wing (a slight concern), this was only his ninth run. He looks better than an average claimer winner, which in beating Sunset Boulevard and Apache Fort he confirmed. Currently rated 78, he should prove better than that moved up to handicaps. To be fair, Sunset Boulevard was not suited by the slow gallop, but in any event Phoenix Flight has a turn of foot which should serve him well providing his temperament holds up.
Backers of Sir Liam in the Class 5 handicap over 1m 5f were watching a train wreck in slow motion. With no pace, Kingscote decided to anchor Sir Liam at the rear and remain there for as long as he dared. The formula is basic: slow pace – keep the leaders within shouting distance and be ready for them to accelerate – fast pace, languish at the back and let them come back to you. Not rocket science – more like common sense. Kingscote, normally a good jockey but nevertheless a fully paid up member of the sit and look cool at the back of the field brigade, failed to adapt to race conditions today and threw a race away. Making ground hand-over-fist from last place once straightening up, he gave his mount too much to do and the combination were flying at the death, beaten two necks by Shanafarahan and Zalkani. This was a messy affair for all taking part and Sir Liam probably wants another furlong at least. However, he should have won today.
The fact that Fantastic Dubai was expected to win the Class 5 Maiden over seven furlongs seemed to be common knowledge. He pulled hard from the outset, only finding a rhythm rounding the turn. Pushed on, he went clear but got understandably tired inside the last furlong and was almost gobbled-up on the line. Last seen in October at Newbury when behind Film Set, he obviously has ability. A son of Storm Cat, he needs to settle down and perhaps this run will take some of the fizz from him. He is worth more than the slender winning margin and could be of interest in a handicap, as on the bare form his mark should not exceed 75. However, talk of running in the Greenham – which is a light year away from this – may influence the handicapper’s assessment. Super Academy, a daughter of Royal Academy, tried to snatch the spoils and just failed. There were those who castigated Shane Kelly for his ride on this filly, but he would have known what he was taking on in the favourite and although he gave his filly every chance, he wisely decided against beating her up. Back in third, Hector Spectre improved on an undistinguished debut.
I suspect that the win of Green Agenda in the Class 6 Handicap amounted to little.
Chjimes is in bloom. The Class 4 Handicap run over five furlongs was run at a fast pace which suited, enabling him to win again. Back in second, the seven-year-old, Qadar, would have been happy over six so did not do too badly. Now down to a mark of 75 after a couple of barren years, a small race ought to be within his compass if stepped up a furlong.
The win of Lord Chancellor was eye-catching in the Class 4 Handicap. Likely to hover around the ninety mark after this, future success will depend on the strength of the opposition he faces.
Astrodome should be credited for winning the Class 5 Maiden Hurdle at FONTWELL as he was racing on heavier ground than his only rival from two out, the McCoy-ridden, Ermine Sea.
TRACK NOTES
TUESDAY MARCH 3rd:
SOUTHWELL RACING RESULTS:
A return to Southwell seemed to make the difference to Grimes Faith who battled for Amy Ryan to win from a mark of 70 in the Class 5 sprint. His best form is at this track but hitherto the impression formed was that he needed things to go his own way. He pulled the race out of the fire under a good ride. Colorus and Guto were next to finish with Efistorm the big letdown.
Eseej made light of a 6lbs penalty to win the Class 6 handicap, making all with what looked like something in hand. This was his first success on this surface despite previous attempts failing to indicate a preference for Fibresand.
Despite a slow start, Convince powered home strongly in the Class 6 handicap over six furlongs. Trained in Ireland, he was scoring from 48, beating a poor selection in the process but should go in again if given the chance.
Intabih was entitled to finish in the shake-up of the Class 4 handicap on his three lengths third to dead-heaters Suits Me and Nanton in November. With an all-American pedigree, he handled the surface, quickened effectively when sent on over a furlong out by Neil Callan, and held on by a dwindling margin from Ours. More Time Tim, running on advantageous terms prior to a reassessment, ran deplorably. A winner five days ago, this run presumably came too soon from a horse that looked at the top of his game, serving as a further reminder that windows of opportunity quickly shut on horses asked to race too often.
TRACK NOTES
MONDAY MARCH 2nd:
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Support for Trade Centre in the Class 4 Maiden was mainly because of the lack of confidence in the Mark Johnston-trained Dareh. It was something of a struggle for Trade Centre to master the unfancied Dareh with the other two runners close up. The conclusion that this was a poor maiden is inescapable.
Jake The Snake trounced his field in the claimer. At this level he is hard to beat. Using a tenuous line through Electric Warrior, the formbook suggested he would struggle against Willkandoo. However, Jake The Snake had reared at the stalls last time, so such calculations were probably misleading even if factoring-in his antics. In any event, he made short work of his opponents.
Boscage was a confident stable call from the Johnston yard in the Class 4 Maiden. A four-year-old American bred by Forestry who was originally with Godolphin, this was his first racecourse experience He looked green, but although the winning margin was a narrow one, he was always going to prevail. The runner-up, Onemix, had finished second to Petrovsky on her debut so presumably the Johnston camp knew where they stood. A fair amount of improvement should be forthcoming from the winner. The runner-up should also have her day before long.
The Class 5 Handicap that concluded the card went to Vinces. Al Azy once again ran in snatches after moving well for a long way. He had a chance to stage a serious challenge when driven up the inside, but once things became tight backed off. My idea of an outsider with a decent chance, he only beat one home and has to be disregarded.
STRATFORD RACING RESULTS:
At the age of five, one-time Derby candidate Raincoat was beaten somewhere in the region of twenty lengths on his hurdling debut in a Class 5 Novice. Irresolute on the Flat, this game was certainly not to his liking. Izita Star bounced off the ground to win comfortably. Riddleofthesands may not have achieved a great deal in second, but his prominent effort helps to herald the possibility that the Twiston-Davies stable are emerging from the tunnel.
In the second division, Risk looked all set for victory when crashing to the ground two out. He seemed none the worse; his exit paving the way for Ready To Crown who just held on from Sam Whiskey.
Blazing Desert showed a semblance of ability from a mark of 107 in the Handicap Hurdle in finishing second to Mollys Garden. For some reason some of the King yard seem to feel Blazing Desert is half-decent. That has yet to be proven. So far he appears slow. They were a motley old crew in behind, borne out by the fact they made Transvestite favourite.
It was a long afternoon at WOLVERHAMPTON. The card compiled of two amateur riders’ races, two claimers, a seller, two Class 5 handicaps and one Class 6. Hardly compelling stuff. Augustus John won a division of the amateur race on his 22nd attempt, something called Deckchair won the seller, Barry Hills had a winner and Dubai Storming took the Class 5 Handicap in a pedestrian time.
TRACK NOTES
SUNDAY MARCH 1st:
HUNTINGDON RACING RESULTS:
The two divisions of the Class 5 Maiden Hurdle were won in woefully slow times. Rockiteer made it six-time lucky in the opener, in which runner-up, Long Distance, showed much-improved form and may win a similar race next time. Hot Diamond finally got off the mark in the second division that looked better on paper. He barely gets the trip but this quicker ground and tight track suited him. Excuses have run dry for Mount Helicon who finished second. He may be better than this but this is as good as you are going to get.
With the defection of Dave’s Dream, the Class 2 Handicap Hurdle lacked much of its depth. Hills Of Aran found the weight concession of 26lbs to Hernando Royal too much. Hills Of Aran has had a busy time of it lately, clashing swords with the likes of Kasbah Bliss and Lough Derg and now faced with a massive task at the weights. Apparently it is next stop Cheltenham for him, but it has to be said a degree of intelligence has been lacking in his campaign so far, resulting in him racing from a 8lb higher mark than when last successful.
LINGFIELD RACING RESULTS:
Benhego doubled-up on his last success for his new stable with a smooth enough win in the Class 4 Handicap. Last of all turning for home, he had the right pilot in George Baker and was able to find his stride under a patient ride. Mr Aitch and Greenwich Village were just ahead of Baan, who should have beaten both of them on various form lines. This was his chance. He ran in snatches and, although closing at the finish, it has to be admitted he is not a reliable betting proposition.
The Class 2 handicap turned out to be something of a mess. In an enterprising move, Paul Mulrennan stole the race by establishing a clear lead on Abbondanza. Although the horse was stopping almost to a walk at the line, he hung on. Flipando was last of all turning in, but found what looked like a terrific burst to close the leader’s massive lead down and would have won in another three strides. He had the advantage of the centre of the track, which is becoming increasingly more important it would seem, but the clock beat him. He looked an unlucky loser and provided further fuel for those who wish to castigate Jamie Spencer. However, the rest of the field were in the same boat, with everything finishing with a flourish. Bazergan and Wasp were unconvincing in third and fourth, whilst Internationaldebut from his poor draw, and Red Somerset, who was interrupted in his run, can be forgiven.
The Class 3 handicap at MUSSELBURGH saw Along The Nile returned to his favourite track. His mark was acceptable but he did have plenty of weight to concede to some unexposed types. He fell down the far side before the taps were turned on. Joe Jo Star ran better than his overall position, as a mistake at the second-last put paid to his chance.
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