BUSH TELEGRAPH

JUNE 2009

BUSH TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY JUNE 30th:

BRIGHTON HORSE RACING TIPS:

5.30: Espy is almost presented with this race and ought to win. He has shown a preference for downhill tracks and there will be no excuses offered if he fails to lift this.

THIRSK HORSE RACING TIPS:

7.00: Ballodair will be a short price after an excellent second to Aerodynamic at Nottingham. He has a dodgy draw in two and although it is not the disadvantage it would be in a handicap, it is still a potential problem. It is a problem he ought to overcome but to a degree I am tipping a horse that needs no tipping here.

8.00: Yirga is expected to win again after his cosy Sandown success. Those of you that backed him then may take the view that was the occasion that mattered. His price today is very much shorter it what could be a better event.

My opinion on the day is to consider a small stake multiple bet the three – either a throwaway treble or sling in three doubles. But please remember Bush Telegraph is not just a tipping service. The objective is to highlight horses worth backing rather than to put up winners at all cost. A small treble would be my advice as, at likely odds, all three need to win for a decent profit to be made and I do not consider these particular horses worthy of large wagers.

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MONDAY JUNE 29th:

There may be four meetings today but nothing looks interesting so I suggest a quiet day in the sunshine!

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SUNDAY JUNE 28th

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

2.00: Lord Zenith ran a race full of promise at Newbury. Shuffled around mid-race, he finished nicely on the outside without being knocked about. The race looked solid – there were good messages for the winner and runner-ups – Party Doctor went on to finish third in the Chesham at Royal Ascot. Lord Zenith has improved since and it will be a big disappointment to all concerned should he fail to confirm his promise.

4.10: Practitioner returns to the course he debuted at and seems well treated by conditions in what appears to be a hand-picked second engagement. He beat Abandagold – winner at Chester on Friday night – which is seen as a positive. He does not need to make much in the way of improvement to take this.

CURRAGH RACING TIPS:

4.20: Some short-price favourites can be watched; others, for those prepared to back to a narrow margin, are short with the thumb. That applies to Fame And Glory as far as I am concerned. After a fine effort at Epsom, he should attain his compensation over this stiffer track and with what promises to be a more searching gallop.

SAINT-CLOUD RACING TIPS:

3.30: If Fame And Glory is a solid short price favourite, Youmzain is a dodgy one. I am no psychiatrist (something you may have noticed), but something stands in the way of expected victory and Youmzain. This renewal of the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud is not a strong one. The betting mistake is Spanish Moon – 10/1 with Ladbrokes. He has already beaten Youmzain when running a cracker in Nad Al Sheba, and is the sort of perverse character to run well when his back is to the wall. Too big at the price and worth taking a chance with. His form entitles him to be in the mix. Don’t worry about him loading. If he fails to, then nothing is lost, but I would be confident he will go in the stalls today.     

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SATURDAY JUNE 27th

Going changes, draws, horses racing over unproven trips – just another day at the office! However, there are a couple of solid looking bets on the cards. Let’s deal with those first:

CURRAGH HORSERACING TIPS

3.40.  LOOK HERE looks a banker to win the Pretty Polly in Ireland –

Everything is in her favour after a massive run against the colts in the Coronation Cup.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS

CANDY RIDE looks well treated from 75 in the 5.10 . She won with something in hand last time and has always appealed as a decent filly in the making. These are the two best bets of the day in my opinion.

Staying at Windsor, Premio Loco ought to win the 3.00 and there is a word for Warringah in the 4.05.

NEWCASTLE HORSERACING TIPS

At Newcastle in the 3.10 so many of these look doubtful stayers. I know Meshtri is fancied and feel he and Ajaan are two against the field that will at least get home.

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

Newmarket and the 3.25 has a punter-friendly look to it as there are negatives aplenty surrounding so many. I am dubious of Imbongi over this track and on this ground. Express Wish can’t win with the penalty. Al Qasi is apparently undercooked. Dream Eater has only ever won once, and Huntdown reportedly needs it. How about taking a chance with Balthazaar’s Gift who is closely matched with Imbongi on Dubai form, will like the ground and has run well at this track.

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FRIDAY 26th June

Mr Nick Rust of Corals is lamenting the fall in betting turnover. You know what they say about rust never sleeping: take a look at today’s cards Mr Rust and see if you can, in all seriousness, nominate a sensible wager.

You have six meetings in Britain to choose from and one in Ireland. Forget selections – ideas for others to pick up and run with – is there a horse contained within any of the meetings that tempts you personally to confidently risk your own money? If so, let me know what it is.

Take Folkestone: by and large it is the usual rubbish and we have the vagary of the draw to contend with. We assume we want to be drawn low on the straight course but rain may change that. The 4.15 is not a bad event. You could make a case for Halsion Chancer but all his wins have been on the Polytrack. We assume Mabiat will be favourite at probably cramped odds.

Chester – over to you again Mr Rust. You are the one complaining about the turnover: What should I back? Simplification after a 72 day lay-off? Course winner H Harrison at the age of nine? Have I missed something?

Newmarket on Friday night. I wouldn’t mind going for a few beers and to listen to the band. But is there a bet? Avertor in the 9.10 – that will win won’t it? For a stay at home punter, does he really sabotage a Friday night to back a horse in the 9.10 when he could be out with his mates or taking the missus for a meal?

What about Too Tall at Doncaster in the 4.35? Showed promise as a two-year-old but disappointed last time over a mile. Dropped back to seven furlongs. Is tonight the night Mr Rust?

NEWCASTLE: Yippee! it is the Gosforth Cup. Six of them are handicapped to dead-heat. Hitchens looks capable of winning this sort of race but you would think six furlongs would suit better. So what is it to be: Hamish McGonagall, Cheveton, River Falcon, Pvershooz, Indian Trail or Captain Dunne? What price I have not named the winner?

This is why turnover is suffering Mr Rust. Punters are not the idiots you and the rest of the bookmaking fraternity seem to think. If they fancy a gamble they might as well do so in style and stand in a casino, with a beer in hand and one eye on the girl in fishnets. So over to you Mr Rust, you’re the clever man, what should I back today?

(This Article also features on Today’s And Another Thing.. Take a look at our other Thought provokers… Here) 

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THURSDAY 25th June

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

3.40: Proven on the surface, Set The Trend has a good chance of causing an upset against some higher rated rivals. There are reasons to oppose several of these – many are returning after absences – Exceptional Art seems best on a soft ground, whereas Set The Trend, by a dirt stallion, is progressive and tough. It is possible this may be his swan song in this country as a deal is in the offing to race in Hong Kong.

4.40: Ostaadi was unable to match Final Victory’s finishing kick last time. The step up to two miles will suit him today and he has every chance of winning what looks a weak handicap.

WARWICK RACING TIPS:

At WARWICK, it is hard to get away from Golden Stream in the 3.50 although she is reappearing quickly after such an excellent run last week at Royal Ascot.

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WEDNESDAY 24th June

SALISBURY RACING TIPS:

This looks like the Andrew Balding show – the stable fielding five horses all with excellent chances.

2.10: Swan Wings is considered a quality filly and her debut behind Nosedive was advertised at Royal Ascot last week. She looks solid and should start a good day for the stable in motion.

3.15: Cloudesley is another that ran particularly well at Sandown last time, looking as if this extra yardage would suit. Whereas Mabuya has been raised for losing, Cloudesley has been dropped. Unless there is a lurker in the field, he gets his chance to open his account in this. These two look the best from the stable on the day although their other runners all have chances. Yeaman’s Hall is the most interesting and may roar back from eighteen months on the sidelines. He is certainly capable in a race such as this and horses with his profile often run to their best on their reappearances.

CARLISLE RACING TIPS:

This is a hard card by any standards. The Tate yard is in terrific form just now and Russian George is sure to have his supporters in the

3.05, a race in which he has a solid chance. West With The Wind may be of equal interest in the

4.10, especially if there is any market support. A big horse that never materialised his potential last year, it could be he will return a stronger more reliable proposition now.

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Tuesday 23rd June

BEVERLEY HORSERACING TIPS

3.45: A chance is taken with Traphalgar who seems to be running into form and looks capable of winning this.

4.15: The draw may be off-putting to a degree, but on the basis not everything can always be in your favour and there are only eight runners, Everymanforhimself looks to have been handed his chance against lesser opposition than he has been encountering.

NEWBURY HORSERACING TIPS

8.30: Faldal looks to be reasonably treated from a mark of 84. Her trainer suggests she may not be suited by fast ground – which she will get – but that is a hard one to reconcile as she is by Falbrav and has form on a sound surface. From a handicapping point of view she looks the moral winner but a ground doubt tempers confidence.

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Monday 22nd June

LINGFIELD HORSERACING TIPS:

3.45: Cosmea is fancied to follow up by his yard. I can’t say I am convinced although he has a chance. Cape Hawk gives the impression of coming to hand. He is yet to win over this trip however, although his two recent efforts at Goodwood suggest he is worth a try. Not a race to have a strong opinion about.

WINDSOR HORSERACING TIPS:

7.10: Palisades Park is a lazy man’s tip. It ought to win though.

7.40: Devil You Know gave the impression there was more to come after his win at Kempton last time. Only raised 3lbs he is hard to get away from.

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Sunday 21st June

PONTEFRACT HORSERACING TIPS:

4.10: After the run of Tyrrells Wood at Royal Ascot yesterday the claims of  Mr Crystal have surely been boosted. He is developing into something of a specialist over this course and stays extremely well. He looks like the best bet on the day.

3.10: William Blake made an excellent comeback at Epsom despite having no luck in running. He must have strong claims.

4.40: Spiekeroog will be a very short price but looks to have been found the ideal opportunity.

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Saturday 20th June

ROYAL ASCOT HORSERACING TIPS

 3.05: The message for Doctor Freemantle leads me to believe he should win. The form pick, he is receiving weight from Bronze Canyon and, although a winner over this trip, Campanologist may find his stamina stretched in this company.

3.45: Sacred Kingdom is the model of consistency and is a very tough performer. A winner of twelve of his sixteen races, the comment from the Coral man that he his form is patchy is hard to swallow. The horse has won his last two, including a Group 1 in Singapore. I can confirm Sacred Kingdom has travelled over well and is in great heart. He has been stabled with Brian Meehan and they are impressed with the horse’s wellbeing.

4.25: Jimmy Styles is nominated by his stable in the Wokingham. They claim he is a Group horse, which he needs to be. 5.35: Amerigo does not appeal as a get out banker in the last. Halla San may be a better option but, as always, it is a case of last man standing over this extreme distance.

NEWMARKET HORSERACING TIPS

2.10: Glen Molly was desperately unlucky last time and is fancied to make amends.

REDCAR HORSERACING TIPS

3.30: There is a suggestion that after some time in the wilderness, Mastership is running into form. There are safer bets on the day, but his latest run when sixth to Kavachi, and before that at Lingfield, puts him in with every chance if he reproduces.

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Friday 19th June

ROYAL ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS

2.30 Well, she may be a flying machine over four-and-half and five furlongs; but what is she like over six? Aegean will find this a very different test today. Chachamaidee is just one of a clutch of fillies that will expose any weaknesses she possesses. Obviously a tough start to the day but this American filly may be worth opposing.

3.05: I am not convinced about the overall Dante form. The two horses I took from the race as likely improvers were Glass Harmonium and Native Ruler. Black Bear Island has a penalty to concede here and Derby runners have a poor record in this race. I feel Debussy does not stay this trip. South Easter and Native Ruler look the two of interest, Aqwaal has to improve again to become involved at this level.

3.45: One of the races of the meeting! Elusive Wave should be favourite on the basis that her win in France looks better than that achieved by Ghanaati, who is scopey but needs to produce more than when winning at Newmarket to my mind. Those that took the short price about Rainbow View for the Guineas over the winter could do worse than have a small saver on her today. She ran better than given credit for in the Guineas and more importantly the Oaks, which she did not stay, and could surprise.

4.20: Stone Of Scone should reverse York form with Moonscape and looks to have a strong chance.

4.55: Dhushan is extremely likeable and won very easily last time. This is a step up in grade but he gives the impression he should stay; however his price is a scandal.

5.30: This is a ridiculously hard race to solve. I can pass on a word for Drawnfromthepast, a 66/1 and 50/1 shot with the firms. There is no point in justifying it; just close your eyes and back it for small stakes.

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THURSDAY 18th JUNE:

ROYAL ASCOT RACING TIPS:

2.30: This is a tough renewal, further complicated by the inclusion of the American horse, Yogaroo. Monsieur Chevalier keeps pulling out enough to win, Nosedive looks better than his first race indicates and carries a high home reputation. I suspect Yogaroo may start favourite but this is not a race for me.

3.05: This looks to be between the highly promising Leocorno and Take the Hint. Leocorno was visually appealing at Sandown, but won off 78 that day. She looks like a 90-rated filly at least but there is no percentage call in her price.

3.45: Veracity is worth chancing in what looks like a quality Gold Cup. Opposing Yeats can lead to tears, but the Gold Cups he has won have often relied heavily on him being last man standing. I believe Veracity has a very good chance of staying this trip and he has been targeted for this. The ground is perfect and despite the form of the Godolphin horses, Veracity is in good order. A winner over two-and-a-quarter miles, if we take his ability to see out the extra quarter of a mile on trust, he has every chance of at least running second to Yeats, who will have to be at the top of his game at the age of eight to lift this for the fourth time.

4.20: This is too hard. There are just too many possiblities that include Desert Creek, Rockhampton, Mutamaashi, Invisible Man and Mirrored. One point here: The draw may not be so significant as many of the better horses race on the far side.

4.55: Four Winds may surprise. His form bears close inspection and on ground he favours a big run is envisaged. he has been trained for today. The Dante form has taken a knock or two, they all finished in a heap and Freemantle, although respected and feared, may not be the good thing he looks. Four Winds looks a solid each-way selection.

My advice: An each-way double Veracity and Four Winds and a win bet on Veracity, seeing how we stand going into the 4.55.

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

6.40: Contract Caterer showed enough first time to be of interest here. The extra furlong will suit and he looks as if he is a winner waiting to happen in this company.

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WEDNESDAY 17th JUNE:

ROYAL ASCOT RACING TIPS:

2.30: Ashram is given a good chance by his stable here despite the 3lbs penalty. We have seen better Jerseys than this and he ought to be in the firing line. A first time visor is somewhat off-putting, but his last run behind Border Patrol reads well. Consistency is not his strong suit so he cannot be backed with any great confidence. Against that he looks overpriced because of the Godolphin factor. Deposer may not be good enough but should run well for ‘potters’.

3.05: This trip and the 5lbs penalty threaten to make life tough for Lush Lashes whose task is far from straightforward. Heavent Scent is a solid filly that only needs half a chance and she will take it. What beats her wins and it may not be Lush Lashes.

3.45: Tartan Bearer may tough this out but it is a hard race. The two French challengers are dangerous, but Tartan Bearer has come on for his Sandown experience and that may be good enough.

4.20: Forgotten Voice is very strongly fancied but priced accordingly. It is difficult to recommend a horse at such a short price for one of the most competitive handicaps of the season. That said it does not look a vintage Hunt Cup, but races like this have a habit of confounding. If you follow messages, back Forgotten Voice.

5.30: Say No Now looks well handicapped after the win of Splashdown at Newbury last week. This return to a mile will suit her and providing a wide draw does not hamper her, she has every chance.

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TUESDAY 16th June:

ROYAL ASCOT HORSE RACING TIPS:

2.30: A great start to the proceedings on the quality front, but a difficult race to unravel. There are too many iffs and buts. If Gladiatorus can transfer Dubai form, if Main Aim can handle this faster ground in Group 1 company, if Paco Boy is truly a miler. My own view is bookmakers will oppose Gladiatorus and that Paco Boy and Main Aim look relatively solid. Gladiatorus does not look particularly robust (has a terrible action) but so far has been awesome. A race to watch.

3.05: Head on block time: I do not think Amour Propre is good enough. I also feel he needs juice in the ground despite his trainer’s comments. Word is that last year’s winner, Equiano, is back to his best and he looks overpriced. Blinkered first time – not always a bonus – he has been tearing the place down at home. We do know he is capable of winning this and there will be more forlorn wagers struck this week. Fleeting Spirit, from a stable in top form, is expected to go well, but the one draw after watering could be disadvantageous.

3.45: Mastercraftsman looks a cut above these. Now he has proved he has trained on and that the Guineas run was not a true reflection of his ability, he will be very hard to beat. Delegator has had his shot. Lord Shanakill does not stay, Intense Focus has been exposed as below Group 1 standard. Soul City needs soft ground and Evasive looks like a seven furlong horse. The one that could run a big race at a price is Pure Poetry, but Mastercraftsman wins the races.

4.20: Canford Cliffs was very impressive at Newbury and the form has worked out. Expect this extra furlong to bring out the best in Raine’s Cross but, again, he is merely one for perms and pots. Defeat for Canford Cliffs will come as a surprise to connections.

4.55: A tough race by any standards. Clopf looks the most interesting contender and is the selection.

Today’s card at Ascot is all we need. Having been through the supporting cards I am satisfied they offer nothing of any interest.

Best on the day: Equiano each-way – win bets Mastercraftsman and Canford Cliffs. For those looking for big price alternatives: Pure Poetry, Raine’s Cross and Clopf are worthy of small interests.

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MONDAY 15th June:

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.00: Buckie Boy is fancied to open his account by his stable. He does look moderate so confidence this end is minimal.

WARWICK HORSE RACING TIPS:

8.40: I can pass on a message for Tevez who ran well last time on his first attempt since January. Little improvement is required to win this.   Quiet day…

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Sunday 14th June

DONCASTER HORSE RACING TIPS

 2.55: But for a slow start, Brisbane may have extended Niran last time at Yarmouth. He looks like a colt on the upgrade and is taken to get off the mark today. Tamanaco was another that failed to hit the gates running on his debut but he looks more stoutly bred and showed less than the selection in running.

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.40: Separating Diana’s Choice and Palace Moon is tough in this, the day’s feature. It really is not worth the effort considering the prices on offer. Palace Moon looks like a possible for Group honours later in the year, whilst Diana’s Choice’s form behind top class sprinters in Dubai is hard to ignore.

CHANTILLLY HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.10: The Prix de Diane seems to concern the first three in the betting. Stacelita will be very hard to beat judging by her second-season record. She has been winning with a great deal of authority, graduating from a Listed event to a Group 1, which she won with ease last time. She is also a winner over this trip, something that could be crucial. Frankly, she looks bombproof unless there is a marked change in the ground – her wins have come on the soft. Tamazirte is a solid enough second-in considering she finished in front of a disappointing Fantasia in the French 1,000 Guineas. She gives every indication she will stay. Fantasia is difficult to assess. It would appear she has been overrated, but it is too early to make such a sweeping statement on the basis of one run. However, her juvenile form has taken a knock or two and she is hard to back with confidence.

4.30: Getting the allowances, Sahpresa ought to beat sub-standard opponents in the Group

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Saturday 13th June

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

1.50: Forte Dei Marmi looks sure to be supported for this having escaped from jail at Goodwood last time – winning value greater than the official distance. This is harder but he is the one to beat. Thief Of Time may emerge as a big-priced danger.

3.25: Adorn and Triple Aspect are the class acts in this. Both are drawn low, which may not help, but Adorn disliked the ground last time and better is expected. For those brave enough, Jargelle may run better than her price suggests. A winner of the Super Sprint at Newbury, she returns to her optimum trip after various sorties in good company over further.

4.35: All Guns Firing ran well enough last season when third to Monitor Closely and London Bridge to warrant consideration here. Fitness has to be taken on trust.

YORK RACING TIPS:

2.35: Fanjura should be suited by the trip and looks as if he may have been laid out for this. A tough race to win, but there was some encouragement to be taken from his run at Chester last time.

3.10: I may take a small chance with Akhenaten in this. All at sea at Epsom last week, he has been busy of late but is a class horse. He also has what could be an advantageous low draw. He has a better chance than Proclaim on the book and I am not looking to back favourites on a day like this! For those who read Track Notes, I know this suggestion contradicts my latest comments on this horse, but when you nominate 20/1 shots you are always flying in the face of the opinion of others – including to a degree, in this case, my own!

3.40: Marching Time, a disappointment last week at Epsom, is brought out quickly in the hope he can put that run behind him. He played up in the paddock and did not look at ease on the track. It seems fair to say he has been something of an under-achiever to date but may be worth one more chance for small stakes.   To sum up – this looks a hard day and one I feel is best approached with caution. Backing big priced horses for small stakes, at this stage anyway, seems more sensible than following the herd. There are better shorter priced propositions in the pipeline…

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FRIDAY 12th JUNE

SANDOWN HORSE RACING TIPS:

3.50: The Mousetrap Handicap, solvable in my opinion. Expect to see improvement from the lightly-raced Godolphin colt, Yirga. Unsuited by heavy ground last time at Haydock, the run has improved him and from a mark of 74 the right race seems to have been found. With a big weight pull with one of the key participants, Laudatory, and a advantageous draw, he should be in the firing line. Backing Godolphin runners just now requires a degree of selectivity; I suggest Yirga passes the test.

4.25: Wintercast should be suited by this step up in trip. He did not get the best of runs at this track last time but still finished a fair enough fifth to Dunno. He is not best drawn but looks as if he should be in the mix.

4.55: Nbhan is reported to be smart. The right sort of race has been found to kick off his second season and a market watch is advised as I am told he is better than his form indicates.

CHEPSTOW HORSE RACING TIP :

7.35: Sweet Hollow should open her account tonight. She took the eye as a juvenile when a strong finishing fourth to Leocorno and with a recent run having blown away the winter cobwebs looks a solid selection.

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THURSDAY 11th JUNE

NEWBURY RACING TIPS:

1.35: Party Doctor is fancied by his stable to go one better in this maiden. He ran a perfectly respectable race at Leicester but this is Newbury and he could easily bump into something here.

2.40: Splashdown is fancied to improve on her Goodwood run. To my eye she had not grown much since her two-year-old days so I have to question where the improvement is coming from. I have to respect the message for her but feel that in Fallen In Love and Apple Charlotte she faces tough opposition.

3.15: Hidden Brief is short but apparently failed to stay last time and her form puts her well in front of these.

4.25: I can pass on a word for Equinine here. Unlucky at Goodwood last year, she would certainly have a chance in a tricky contest.

4.55: Devil To Pay won with a little in hand at Goodwood despite the margin of success. Only raised 5lbs and now over an extra two furlongs, he is the one to beat.

YARMOUTH RACING TIPS:

2.20: Tomintoul Singer should have little difficulty opening her account.

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

2.00: There are messages here for Kanaf and Aerodynamic in what may be an above average maiden for the track.

2.30: Murcar is fancied to follow up on his recent Newbury success by his stable and will relish this extra trip.

3.35: Disappointed though I was by Candy Ride’s apparent tame showing last time, I am prepared to give her another chance. She may have bumped into a very useful type at Windsor.

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WEDNESDAY 10th JUNE

HAYDOCK RACING TIPS:

3.40: The form of Godolphin is a worry. Global City has strung two promising runs together, looking as if a step up to seven furlongs would be to his benefit. He has every chance against such opposition but cannot be a confident call on two counts.

4.10: Mujood has been busy of late – possibly too busy after three runs in quick succession. A tight race but one that may suit Tanto Faz.

HAMILTON RACING TIPS:

7.40: There is a chance of solving this event. Maze is tricky and hard to catch right. Firm ground may count against him and Fishforcompliments and Vhujon look weighted up to the hilt. Nightjar – proven on firm – could be the call.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

8.20: Countdown may be worth chancing. Well drawn and having run better than his two runs this season indicate, he is, however, at his best on soft ground and is now seven. So a couple of plusses and a couple of minuses. But he has won on this track, has his trip and is a speculative fancy.

8.50: Seems between Final Victory and Ostaadi. Both look progressive. In the absence of any clues, Final Victory comes into this with marginally the better form.   These are no more than ideas on a day that is far from easy and presents plenty of problems to potential players.

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TUESDAY 9th JUNE

SALISBURY HORSE RACING TIP:

4.30: King Of Defence is fancied for this. I am struggling to recommend him as a bet but the message is passed on for your own opinion.

REDCAR HORSE RACING TIP:

4.45: Luc Jordan should be up to winning this maiden after chasing home Palacefield last time.

CHESTER HORSE RACING TIP:

6.45: Reddy To Star has already proved expensive to follow and is nominated by his stable once more on the basis a quick five will play to his strengths.   To be honest there is little there to get excited over, but I have relayed the above in hope it will be of some benefit on another day dregged from the bottom of the well.

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MONDAY 8th JUNE

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING TIP:

6.50: After a couple efforts in better company, Angelena Ballerina faces what looks an ideal task here. This stiff track and step up in trip will suit and she should be too good, albeit at a short price, for her rivals.

WINDSOR HORSE RACING TIP:

7.30: This looks a tempting race. By Command, considered good enough to contest the Lingfield Derby Trial last year, is a well handicapped horse should he be capable if recovering form. His sole win was at this track and he is tempting against some poor opposition. But a small saver has to be advised on Folio, dropped to an all-time low of 67 after a succession of runs on unsuitably firm ground. He does have the ground in his favour tonight and it would not be the biggest shock if he recovered winning form. This is not a race to become embroiled in however as there are plenty of ifs and buts attached to my reasoning.

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SUNDAY 7th JUNE

CHANTILLY RACING TIPS

Domestic racing today offers nothing of interest.

The day’s main event is the French Derby at Chantilly – run at 4.35 and over an extended 1m 2f. And we are back to the old chestnut of will-he-won’t he stay.

Silver Frost is a dubious stayer on pedigree but has a bright turn of foot and was not stopping when winning the French Guineas. He looks an improved three-year-old but should stamina prove a problem,

Westphalia – twice beaten by Silver Frost and himself no certainty to stay on pedigree but a colt that has always looked as if it will benefit him – may have a chance to atone for Fame And Glory’s defeat at Epsom. He is tough but lacks a killer punch. However, he should be thereabouts.

Zafisio could be overpriced at 25/1. He is another whose pedigree is not stamina-laden but he has proved he gets the trip and may stay on with a dangerous run.

Possibly the most likely threat will come from twice-raced Beheshtam. Supplemented for this, he has a stout pedigree and has already won over a mile-and-a-half. His form has not reached this level yet, but this son of Peintre Celebre represents the Aga Khan who has a good record when producing this sort of animal under such circumstances. Except to see French support for him.

I hesitate to oppose Silver Frost but do have stamina worries.

Zafisio is only suggested for those wishing a small interest at a big price.

Westphalia looks a solid each-way call, whereas Beheshtam is hard to assess but looks a big danger to all.

 BUSH TELEGRAPH:

SATURDAY 6th JUNE

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

1.25: There is a big word for Marching Time here. Unlucky at York last time in a hot handicap, he represents a stable that invariably targets this race with a good horse – Conduit won it last year. The draw has not been kind to Marching Time and he is likely to be well backed this morning – possibly going off at a short price. As an alternative on this suitable rain-sprinkled ground, I am tempted by London Bridge, whose form with Senses and Monitor Closely suggests he could be well treated. Again, he has a wide draw to overcome.

3.45: Form and tip overkill defines the Derby; to quote Ladbrokes: everybody has an opinion. Mine put in a nutshell is the best horse is Sea The Stars but he has to prove his stamina. The best over this trip is potentially Fame And Glory.

DONCASTER RACING TIPS:

2.35: Emirates Roadshow looks the one to beat, particularly after his latest run behind Desert Strike. He has form on good ground but it remains to be seen how he will cope should it ride on the soft side. That and the current form of Godolphin is off-putting, but he could be good enough.

MUSSELBURGH RACING TIPS:

2.50: Holyrood looks sure to cope with fast ground better than Alanbrooke, whilst Kings Destiny gave the impression he failed to stay last time.Not a straightforward race by any means but on the assumption the ground remains on the fast side, I quite like the chance of Holyrood.   This is one of racing’s great days. It looks tough from a punting point of view.

BUSH TELEGRAPH

FRIDAY 5th June

EPSOM RACING TIPS:

1.40: Confront is fancied to follow up on his Newmarket win by his stable. They are shutting the door after the horse has bolted to a degree. This is obviously a harder task for this son of Nayef than the handicap he won last month. Hatta Fort is in good heart and this step up in trip may suit him. He has given the impression that six is too short these days in his two runs back in this country.

2.45: I am prepared to take on persistent loser Youmzain and the filly Look Here. As a result I am left with Eastern Anthem, Buccellati and Duncan. The last-named has the weakest form of the three but could not have won with more authority at Ascot. He is a course winner, which can be important here, and recent work with the speedy Pipedreamer emphasises he is still improving. He will not be the price he should be as he has already attracted a smattering of money and Pricewise has nominated him. Even so, I feel the edge is opposing the first two in the betting, which may balance that out. Eastern Anthem may be best in big fields and coming from a strong pace. His trainer reports he will improve for the run as, in common with many of the Godolphin team to have taken part in the Carnival, he has presumably been let down after a busy desert campaign. Buccellati is primed to run well but Duncan looks a solid selection even though on the face of it he has something to find.

4.05: Sariska is the logical choice for he Oaks. Rain is a possibility judging by early morning skies, which would help her. Actually looking back through Rainbow View’s two-year-old form I am struck by the fact it does not look quite so good now as it did then.

5.25: Satwa Laird showed enough on his debut of the season in a hot handicap when fourth to Brief Encounter at York to suggest he has a big chance. He takes on a couple of likely lads in All About You and Cloudy Start but he does bring solid form to the table.   Best of the day: Duncan and Satwa Laird.

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THURSDAY 4th June

SANDOWN RACING TIPS:

6.45: Rocker is not a confident selection but gets the nod over some exposed rivals. He has been fortunate with the draw and should be more effective on this surface than when encountering the heavy at Haydock last time. A course and distance winner, his run at Goodwood when third to Cake and Little Pete is as good as anything else brought to the table on these terms. For those bored with racing at present, there are two cryptic comments hidden in above remarks; no prizes for spotting them, but looking may save you straying into temptation.

8.25: Twisted should win what looks like an easy maiden. Third to Sam Sharp at Newbury, that form has already been boosted by the win of the sixth horse, Pictorial, at Windsor on Monday. Being by Selkirk, he would not want the ground too firm and that is the only codicil. For the present going description to contain the word ‘Good’ , it would appear that after a period of baking hot weather the track has been watered.

 BUSH TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY 3rd June

NOTTINGHAM RACING TIPS:

3.10: Velvet Band showed plenty of pace on debut and this drop back to five should suit. She ought to get off the mark here.

4.10: A good opportunity has been found for Emmrooz. Second to Bankable in Dubai, he meets nothing of that calibre today. Godolphin has not been in form but horses that ran in Dubai have acquitted themselves well enough.

KEMPTON RACING TIPS:

7.20: Bugaku is a short price in this handicap. His price seems to owe much to the Michael Stoute factor and that he has been kept in training as a four-year-old. The race he won at Sandown last week was average at best. Second favourite, Covert Ambition is another making a handicap debut after winning a maiden. His success on soft ground at Nottingham last October was eye-catching but it is difficult to know what he achieved. Interestingly, Frankie Dettori has declined the option to ride and the draw is of no help either. So, for those prepared to take on the front two in the betting, there is value to be had. Humble Opinion has claims on solid form when fourth to subsequent winners, Hatton Flight and Dansili Dancer. At 10/1 he represents value on a day when it is hard to find anything outside the obvious.

8.20: Talking of the obvious, Janeiro looks a good thing to win this after a fine run behind Archers Road in the Hilary Needler.

BUSH TELEGRAPH:

TUESDAY 2nd JUNE

RIPON RACING TIP:

I am taking a chance with one horse today: Spirit Of Sharjah 3.30. A decent two-year-old, winning his first two races, it has been a case of man overboard since. His latest two runs have strongly hinted at a return to form and also that a sixth furlong will bring out the best in him in this company. With the plum draw and a mark of 87, he has been thrown a life belt. Biggest danger is likely to be Van Bossed but Spirit Of Sharjah is nominated as a value alternative.

BUSH TELEGRAPH

MONDAY 1st June

LEICESTER RACING TIPS:

2.00: Jira sets a smart standard having finished fourth at Ascot to Little Perisher. It is not earth-shattering form, but it is tempting to think it may be good enough with Capacity from the unraced contingent possibly representing the biggest danger.

CARLISLE RACING TIPS:

2.15: This appears to rest between Yeadon and Silver in the Sand. Yeadon looks to have been installed at a very short piece and it could be that over this minimum trip Silver In The Sand presents a bigger danger than the betting suggests.

WINDSOR RACING TIPS:

6.25: Nadeen achieved more than was apparent at the time when beating Little Perisher at Brighton and may defy his penalty. Footstepsofspring’s second to Goodwood Maestro will need improving upon if he is to win this. A bigger danger appears to be Antonius Moris.

7.25: Carleton could be of interest in this sort of company but the likelihood of fast ground after what is predicted as the hottest day of the year so far may not be in his favour.

7.55: The presence of the rapid J J The Jet Plane should draw a few customers to the Berkshire venue tonight.

8.25: Pictorial showed enough on debut to suggest a maiden is within his compass. His stable like him, but again, being by Pivotal fast ground would be a worry.

THIRSK RACING TIPS:

7.40: Victoria Sponge has the draw and looks likely to appreciate this drop back to seven, having been caught in the last furlong by Bombina at Newmarket.   With the ground likely to change throughout the day, it is a case of holding fire on the betting front until seeing the actual surface horses are having to cope with.