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thought it may be usefull and handy to have any info trainers plans and anything concerning horses likley to be at the festival come march on the one thread save looking all over the forum !feel free to contribute with any news !
hendo on atr today .........finians definatly stepping up to 3 miles and he will probably face long run and riverside theatre in the king george .
simonsig i would definatly have no hesitation bringing him back to 2miles over hurdles " barry said he thinks 2.4 miles would suit !............ just my opinion but i wouldnt be sure he is going nov chasing this season they may stick to hurdles ! tread carfully with yer ante post bets on this fella .
hendo on atr today .........finians definatly stepping up to 3 miles and he will probably face long run and riverside theatre in the king george .
simonsig i would definatly have no hesitation bringing him back to 2miles over hurdles " barry said he thinks 2.4 miles would suit !............ just my opinion but i wouldnt be sure he is going nov chasing this season they may stick to hurdles ! tread carfully with yer ante post bets on this fella .
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Tom, you're on rare form today.
I totally agree with you that if LR gets to Cheltenham at his best he's a major player. The question for me is "can he?", and at the moment I believe the answer is no.
I totally agree with you that if LR gets to Cheltenham at his best he's a major player. The question for me is "can he?", and at the moment I believe the answer is no.
^i.e. I think he's peaked and is now on the way down.
paul nicholls expects improvement from cristal bonus when he is stepped up to 3 miles on soft ground and the 6 yo could start off in the 2.4 mile grade 2 chase at down royal along with kauto stone .
al ferof is not back in the yard yet after sustaining a cut out in the field ,he will be entered for the king george .
silviniarco conti is tipped to develop into a gold cup contender ,but possibly in 2014 rather than 2013 said the trainer he will have an entry in the king george .
source....racing post today.
al ferof is not back in the yard yet after sustaining a cut out in the field ,he will be entered for the king george .
silviniarco conti is tipped to develop into a gold cup contender ,but possibly in 2014 rather than 2013 said the trainer he will have an entry in the king george .
source....racing post today.
Paul Nicholls discusses his horses for this season, part 1
Yesterday was spent at Paul Nicholls' yard in Somerset, where he paraded 83 horses at his annual owners' day, discussing plans for each one. It was an impressive performance by the trainer, who spoke fluently, in detail and without notes.
It was also a fairly impressive performance from the audience, who hung on his every word and admired each animal (they were worth admiring). Just try finding a collection of Flat-racing owners prepared to sit through something like that (in occasional rain!) before being fed and watered.
I've often heard trainers describe a horse as "mad fresh" and now I know what it means. Several of Nicholls' charges appeared determined to break free from their handlers and burst into the crowd.
Some of them behaved more like dragons than horses, craning their necks, throwing their heads about and leaping in the air. Kauto Star, in fact, was one of these bad boys.
Sanctuaire engaged in a particularly dramatic tussle with his lass, about 10 feet from where I was sitting on a bale of sawdust. I looked up from note-taking and was trying to decide if evasive action was going to be necessary when suddenly I found myself on my bum in the mud with my limbs going in all different directions.
The girl on my left had made up her mind first and, in scrambling away, had knocked her neighbours clean off their perches. "I'm sorry," she said, "but I know what that one's capable of." I can confirm that Sanctuaire appeared in robust health.
Anyway, I'm in the process of typing up my notes from the occasion and will report what Nicholls had to say about those in the parade on Talking Horses later today and tomorrow.
Kauto Star
He's an amazing horse and produced two more top-drawer performances last season, when he won the Betfair and the King George. [At this point, KS jumped around a bit and briefly threatened to break away from his handler] As you can see, he's getting older and slower. He came in on Monday and looks outstanding. He's the highest-rated chaser in training. We'll give him a month to six weeks' work and see what happens. Clifford [Baker, head lad] rides him every day and knows him better than anyone. Then we'll have a chat with Clive [Smith, owner]. He'll make the decision [as to whether or not KS will race again] and we'll support whatever decision he makes. It's fully up to him.
Pacha Du Polder
He won three times as a novice chaser last season, including in the Future Champions at Ayr. When we were having a few problems in the yard in spring, he had one moderate run but then he won at Ayr. He's big, strong and scopey. He has to go down the handicap route now and the Hennessy might be his first run of the season. He's a horse we like a lot and you'll see a lot more of him this year.
Dualla Lord
His jumping just let him down last year, when we tried him once over fences and he fell at Cheltenham. We went back to hurdles after that and he won easily at Wincanton in May. We're very hopeful he'll do well over fences this year but he can still run over hurdles and we may look at one run over three miles before sending him back over fences.
Big Buck's
A phenomenal horse and he's only nine years old. As you can see, he's mad fresh, though he's been doing plenty of work. It looks like we need to do a bit more. He'll start off again in the Long Distance at Newbury's Hennessy meeting and follow the well-established route to Ascot, Cheltenham and Aintree. Whether we'll run in the Cleeve as well . . . we'll see. He could be going to the Festival looking for his 20th win on the trot. He's so good over hurdles, there's no point in sending him chasing again.
Sanctuaire
Here's Big Buck's's newest mate [they're now in adjacent boxes]. He did well over hurdles but, since going chasing, he's looked extraordinary. He's the highest-rated novice chaser I've ever had to go into a second season over fences. His first run will be in the Tingle Creek and we'll aim at the Champion Chase.
Rocky Creek
Won a Grade Two novice hurdle at Doncaster but was well below his best at the Cheltenham Festival. He's a big, strong, scopey horse and we're very much looking forward to him running over fences. He'll be ready to run in October if the weather stays as it is.
Toubab
He'll run in two-mile handicap chases. He had a mixed year last time. He won at Sandown but then he was still going well in the Grand Annual at the Festival when he got brought down. He injured himself when he fell at Haydock in November. He's strengthened up enormously over the summer and we might aim him at the Haldon Gold Cup or a handicap chase at Ascot in October. He's definitely improved. A fast-run race suits him.
Keppols Hill
Was with Richard Barber last season and won four point to points. If the ground's on the easy side, he should be ready to run in late October or early November. We look forward to him going novice chasing over three miles.
Ruben Cotter
He's big and scopey and will make a nice chaser. He was a novice hurdler last season and we gave him a bit of time off before he won at Exeter in May. He jumps well over fences and he'll be ready some time in October. He was growing up last season and we should see a more consistent campaign this time.
Unioniste
A half-brother to My Will by Dom Alco, who is also the sire of Neptune Collonges, Al Ferof and Silviniaco Conti. He won a hurdle at Pau in February and then a novice chase at Auteuil in May. He'll go novice chasing and he goes nicely at home. He's fairly strong for a four-year-old and he could run at Cheltenham, either in October or November. A lot of Dom Alcos get better with age and distance.
Fascino Rustico
He was bought at auction in April after hacking up in a bumper at Carlisle. He's big and scopey and he's got chaser written all over him. He thrives on work. We'll keep him to novice hurdles this year and he might take in the bumper at the Paddy Power meeting in November. He'll be a chaser next year.
Italian Master
He was a bit disappointing for us last season, when he was beaten in his two novice hurdles, and I don't think he really acclimatised. He's strengthened up over the summer and he's got a handicap mark, so we may not bother with hurdles any more and put him straight into handicap chases. I think you'll see a much-improved horse this year.
Themilanhorse
He won four novice hurdles last season, which very few horses ever do. He jumps super and he looks a ready-made winner of a novice chase. We might try him first in the three-mile handicap hurdle at Cheltenham's Paddy Power meeting in November. He can run any time we like over fences and sons of Milan will get better with age. He goes well on good ground.
Kauto Stone
He won impressively at Down Royal on his first start for us last year but his season tailed off from there. He was a bit the same in France, running well in the autumn and then losing his way in spring. He's had a breathing operation because I think he used to get wound up in his races and panic. He definitely wants to go three miles and his first run will be over that distance at Down Royal again. He looks fantastic, he's had time to acclimatise and that makes a big difference to some horses.
Ted Spread
Won a handicap hurdle at Taunton in January and he was involved in the County Hurdle until he got interfered with. He'll probably go to Ascot on 29 October and then the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham in November. He's a horse to follow on decent ground.
Criqtonic
He joined us in the middle of last season and had one run, finishing second to Kumbeshwar in a novice chase, which is good form. He fell apart after that but he's done incredibly well over the summer. Some of these horses from France need time to acclimatise and strengthen up. The race we won at Wetherby with Fistral Beach last October might be a suitable race to start him in.
Sametegal
A lovely looking three-year-old who won a juvenile hurdle at Enghien in Paris in April before coming to us. He's improved enormously over the last month and might be ready to run in the middle of October at Chepstow. We like what we see from him and he's an interesting horse to follow. Recent changes to the rules mean that he can compete in juvenile hurdles all season but he's likely to be a chaser in time.
Dildar
We had high hopes for him last year but he was a bit disappointing. He's a big, strong horse who took a while to get over the gelding operation, after which he had a bit of an infection. He could be well handicapped for the start of the season. He's had a breathing operation and I'll aim him at 13 October at Chepstow, where they have a four-year-old handicap hurdle. If he's not ready for then, there will be plenty of opportunities for him.
Dark Lover
He missed last season with a leg injury. His handicap mark of 120 is very winnable and we might start him off in a handicap hurdle but it won't be too long before he goes chasing.
Pepe Simo
He's won over fences and hurdles for us but he hasn't been seen since October because of a leg injury. We'll continue to mix and match chases and hurdles with him and he's well capable of winning more races.
Yesterday was spent at Paul Nicholls' yard in Somerset, where he paraded 83 horses at his annual owners' day, discussing plans for each one. It was an impressive performance by the trainer, who spoke fluently, in detail and without notes.
It was also a fairly impressive performance from the audience, who hung on his every word and admired each animal (they were worth admiring). Just try finding a collection of Flat-racing owners prepared to sit through something like that (in occasional rain!) before being fed and watered.
I've often heard trainers describe a horse as "mad fresh" and now I know what it means. Several of Nicholls' charges appeared determined to break free from their handlers and burst into the crowd.
Some of them behaved more like dragons than horses, craning their necks, throwing their heads about and leaping in the air. Kauto Star, in fact, was one of these bad boys.
Sanctuaire engaged in a particularly dramatic tussle with his lass, about 10 feet from where I was sitting on a bale of sawdust. I looked up from note-taking and was trying to decide if evasive action was going to be necessary when suddenly I found myself on my bum in the mud with my limbs going in all different directions.
The girl on my left had made up her mind first and, in scrambling away, had knocked her neighbours clean off their perches. "I'm sorry," she said, "but I know what that one's capable of." I can confirm that Sanctuaire appeared in robust health.
Anyway, I'm in the process of typing up my notes from the occasion and will report what Nicholls had to say about those in the parade on Talking Horses later today and tomorrow.
Kauto Star
He's an amazing horse and produced two more top-drawer performances last season, when he won the Betfair and the King George. [At this point, KS jumped around a bit and briefly threatened to break away from his handler] As you can see, he's getting older and slower. He came in on Monday and looks outstanding. He's the highest-rated chaser in training. We'll give him a month to six weeks' work and see what happens. Clifford [Baker, head lad] rides him every day and knows him better than anyone. Then we'll have a chat with Clive [Smith, owner]. He'll make the decision [as to whether or not KS will race again] and we'll support whatever decision he makes. It's fully up to him.
Pacha Du Polder
He won three times as a novice chaser last season, including in the Future Champions at Ayr. When we were having a few problems in the yard in spring, he had one moderate run but then he won at Ayr. He's big, strong and scopey. He has to go down the handicap route now and the Hennessy might be his first run of the season. He's a horse we like a lot and you'll see a lot more of him this year.
Dualla Lord
His jumping just let him down last year, when we tried him once over fences and he fell at Cheltenham. We went back to hurdles after that and he won easily at Wincanton in May. We're very hopeful he'll do well over fences this year but he can still run over hurdles and we may look at one run over three miles before sending him back over fences.
Big Buck's
A phenomenal horse and he's only nine years old. As you can see, he's mad fresh, though he's been doing plenty of work. It looks like we need to do a bit more. He'll start off again in the Long Distance at Newbury's Hennessy meeting and follow the well-established route to Ascot, Cheltenham and Aintree. Whether we'll run in the Cleeve as well . . . we'll see. He could be going to the Festival looking for his 20th win on the trot. He's so good over hurdles, there's no point in sending him chasing again.
Sanctuaire
Here's Big Buck's's newest mate [they're now in adjacent boxes]. He did well over hurdles but, since going chasing, he's looked extraordinary. He's the highest-rated novice chaser I've ever had to go into a second season over fences. His first run will be in the Tingle Creek and we'll aim at the Champion Chase.
Rocky Creek
Won a Grade Two novice hurdle at Doncaster but was well below his best at the Cheltenham Festival. He's a big, strong, scopey horse and we're very much looking forward to him running over fences. He'll be ready to run in October if the weather stays as it is.
Toubab
He'll run in two-mile handicap chases. He had a mixed year last time. He won at Sandown but then he was still going well in the Grand Annual at the Festival when he got brought down. He injured himself when he fell at Haydock in November. He's strengthened up enormously over the summer and we might aim him at the Haldon Gold Cup or a handicap chase at Ascot in October. He's definitely improved. A fast-run race suits him.
Keppols Hill
Was with Richard Barber last season and won four point to points. If the ground's on the easy side, he should be ready to run in late October or early November. We look forward to him going novice chasing over three miles.
Ruben Cotter
He's big and scopey and will make a nice chaser. He was a novice hurdler last season and we gave him a bit of time off before he won at Exeter in May. He jumps well over fences and he'll be ready some time in October. He was growing up last season and we should see a more consistent campaign this time.
Unioniste
A half-brother to My Will by Dom Alco, who is also the sire of Neptune Collonges, Al Ferof and Silviniaco Conti. He won a hurdle at Pau in February and then a novice chase at Auteuil in May. He'll go novice chasing and he goes nicely at home. He's fairly strong for a four-year-old and he could run at Cheltenham, either in October or November. A lot of Dom Alcos get better with age and distance.
Fascino Rustico
He was bought at auction in April after hacking up in a bumper at Carlisle. He's big and scopey and he's got chaser written all over him. He thrives on work. We'll keep him to novice hurdles this year and he might take in the bumper at the Paddy Power meeting in November. He'll be a chaser next year.
Italian Master
He was a bit disappointing for us last season, when he was beaten in his two novice hurdles, and I don't think he really acclimatised. He's strengthened up over the summer and he's got a handicap mark, so we may not bother with hurdles any more and put him straight into handicap chases. I think you'll see a much-improved horse this year.
Themilanhorse
He won four novice hurdles last season, which very few horses ever do. He jumps super and he looks a ready-made winner of a novice chase. We might try him first in the three-mile handicap hurdle at Cheltenham's Paddy Power meeting in November. He can run any time we like over fences and sons of Milan will get better with age. He goes well on good ground.
Kauto Stone
He won impressively at Down Royal on his first start for us last year but his season tailed off from there. He was a bit the same in France, running well in the autumn and then losing his way in spring. He's had a breathing operation because I think he used to get wound up in his races and panic. He definitely wants to go three miles and his first run will be over that distance at Down Royal again. He looks fantastic, he's had time to acclimatise and that makes a big difference to some horses.
Ted Spread
Won a handicap hurdle at Taunton in January and he was involved in the County Hurdle until he got interfered with. He'll probably go to Ascot on 29 October and then the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham in November. He's a horse to follow on decent ground.
Criqtonic
He joined us in the middle of last season and had one run, finishing second to Kumbeshwar in a novice chase, which is good form. He fell apart after that but he's done incredibly well over the summer. Some of these horses from France need time to acclimatise and strengthen up. The race we won at Wetherby with Fistral Beach last October might be a suitable race to start him in.
Sametegal
A lovely looking three-year-old who won a juvenile hurdle at Enghien in Paris in April before coming to us. He's improved enormously over the last month and might be ready to run in the middle of October at Chepstow. We like what we see from him and he's an interesting horse to follow. Recent changes to the rules mean that he can compete in juvenile hurdles all season but he's likely to be a chaser in time.
Dildar
We had high hopes for him last year but he was a bit disappointing. He's a big, strong horse who took a while to get over the gelding operation, after which he had a bit of an infection. He could be well handicapped for the start of the season. He's had a breathing operation and I'll aim him at 13 October at Chepstow, where they have a four-year-old handicap hurdle. If he's not ready for then, there will be plenty of opportunities for him.
Dark Lover
He missed last season with a leg injury. His handicap mark of 120 is very winnable and we might start him off in a handicap hurdle but it won't be too long before he goes chasing.
Pepe Simo
He's won over fences and hurdles for us but he hasn't been seen since October because of a leg injury. We'll continue to mix and match chases and hurdles with him and he's well capable of winning more races.
Thanks for posting those GI Mac. Was anything said about Edgardo Sol?
Eduardo Sol - was the surprise package among Nicholls chasers last season - take out Hunt Ball and he must have been the most improved chaser in training. Starts off 157 such is his enthusiasm for the game further improvement can't be ruled out. He's likely to mix + match hurdling and chasing again and may start of in Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter on Nov 6th.
Great Post GI - Was there any mention of The Minack? Cheers
Was there not talk of him being retired after his last fall shockster?
Nicholls PTP - Comeonginger - brother to Brindisi Breeze. Nov Hurdles this year and they really like him a lot.
Bucks Bond - Won twice - falling others. Goes Nov Chasing. Related to Big Bucks.
Keppols Hill - Won several PTP in Ireland - Goes Nov Chasing.
Nitrogen - Half Brother to Best Mate - won only start.
Provo - 5th in NHF and then won PTP - Staying Nov Hurdler.
Urubu D'Iralnde - Goes Nov Hurdling - won only PTP showing turn of foot.
Cowards Close - Goes Nov Hurdling - Stayer on soft - won at Dromahane last April.
Fox Run - 4yr old - NHF then Hurdle won PTP in good style.
McIlhatton - Won over 2m 5f well and NHF and then hurdles.
Sound Investment - Fell at last when in front in Feb. Bought by G.Wylie + goes Nov Hurdling.
Wilton Milan - Big/Raw 4yr old - looks chaser but goes hurdling this year.
Bucks Bond - Won twice - falling others. Goes Nov Chasing. Related to Big Bucks.
Keppols Hill - Won several PTP in Ireland - Goes Nov Chasing.
Nitrogen - Half Brother to Best Mate - won only start.
Provo - 5th in NHF and then won PTP - Staying Nov Hurdler.
Urubu D'Iralnde - Goes Nov Hurdling - won only PTP showing turn of foot.
Cowards Close - Goes Nov Hurdling - Stayer on soft - won at Dromahane last April.
Fox Run - 4yr old - NHF then Hurdle won PTP in good style.
McIlhatton - Won over 2m 5f well and NHF and then hurdles.
Sound Investment - Fell at last when in front in Feb. Bought by G.Wylie + goes Nov Hurdling.
Wilton Milan - Big/Raw 4yr old - looks chaser but goes hurdling this year.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2012/sep/04/live-racing-4-september-2012
Black Thunder
I never felt he was really right in the spring, despite his win at Chepstow. There's a decent hurdle race at the second Chepstow meeting in October and I'll try to have him ready for that. He's done so well this summer and he'll have no problem jumping a fence.
Provo
He was backward last year when we got him. He was fifth in a decent bumper at Ascot and then won his only point to point with Richard Barber. Whatever he achieves over hurdles will be a bonus because he needs fences in a year's time. He's still in the 'big baby' category.
Rolling Aces
He'll go novice chasing and was always going to be much better over fences. A breathing operation has definitely improved him enormously and he'll be ready to run at the end of October. Ignore his last run, when he was down the field at Wincanton, as he was well below his best.
Come On Ginger
He's a full brother to Brindisi Breeze and a lovely young horse to put in your notebook. He ran in two point to points and won both. He's big and gangly but he jumped and travelled and we're really pleased with him. I'm looking at the novice hurdle at Wincanton at the end of October that Denman started off in seven years ago. He's big and scopey and he's done everything right so far.
Silviniaco Conti
We'll run him in the Charlie Hall at Wetherby and then make a plan. He'll probably have an entry in the King George but he might be an ideal horse for Aintree in the spring and we'll give him plenty of time. He might be a Gold Cup contender in 2014 rather than 2013, as he could get stronger and more consistent.
Rebel Rebellion
We had high hopes for him last season but he was disappointing on his first run at Chepstow and it turned out that he'd injured a tendon. We've given him lots of time and he's done very well. He'll go over fences now at two miles and we'll try to start off in a beginners chase at Exeter or somewhere like that. He jumps extremely well.
Dodging Bullets
He would be one of the best maidens in training. He was fourth in the Triumph Hurdle after running a bit free and wasn't at his best at Aintree. He's done well for his first summer out and will be aimed at the four-year-olds only hurdle at Cheltenham in October. He's a horse to follow.
Cedre Bleu
A big, scopey chaser, he's crying out for three miles. He started coughing after the new year and never really got over that all season. There's no real plan at the moment. We'll get him fit and ready and find a three-mile handicap chase somewhere. He's also eligible for graduation chases. I'd like to think he'd be winning.
Poquelin
I never really had him right last season. We tried him in the Charlie Hall but he blatantly didn't stay. He'll run in all the two-and-a-half-mile handicap chases at Cheltenham. He'll have top weight but we'll put a claimer on him, Harry Derham or someone like that, so he'll only have 11-5 to carry. I'm sure there's still another race or two in him.
Ranjaan
He took a while to come to himself last season after being gelded over the summer but managed to win twice in novice hurdles. We were preparing him for the Triumph Hurdle when he had a small injury. He'll stay hurdling and we hope he can develop into a top-level performer. He will eventually make a chaser. He's twice the size he was this time last year.
Harry The Viking
He was second in the four-miler at the last Cheltenham Festival but was over the top when he was pulled up in the Scottish National. He might be an obvious type for the Grand National, he stays forever. He'll probably go for the Badger Ales at Wincanton early in the season and then the Hennessy. We'll try to win a three mile handicap chase with him and then look after him with the National in mind. He keeps a bit to himself but I'm sure there's plenty more races to be won with him.
Domtaline
He won a handicap hurdle at Chepstow in October and then took an age to get back to the same form on the same ground before winning twice over fences in spring. He wants decent ground and two and a half miles in a novice chase. He'll be ready to run at Chepstow or Cheltenham in October.
Prospect Wells
Was high class on the Flat before joining us last season and doing really well over hurdles. We had an enormous problem trying to get him jumping. I'm dying to try him over two and a half miles and I think he'll continue to progress and improve.
Hinterland
Here's a horse you definitely want in your '10 to follow' list. He's a four-year-old novice chaser, a very big, scopey, chasing sort. He jumps nicely, he's well forward and he should turn up at the first Cheltenham meeting in a two-mile novice chase. Then he might go for the race we won with Al Ferof at the November meeting there. He's got loads of speed.
Edgardo Sol
He showed incredible improvement last season. He won off 127 at Aintree in October. By the time of their big meeting in April, he was on 143 and he won again. Life will be a lot harder for him this season but I'm sure there's another race in him.
Buck's Bond
His dam is a half-sister to Big Buck's and he's spent a couple of seasons point to pointing to gain experience. He's been big and backward but he jumps really well and he'll be ready to run from mid-October. He'll probably go novice chasing and he can stay three miles in soft ground.
Royal Charm
He looks as well as I've seen him since we've had him. He was a bit disappointing last season, when he fell on his first start and lost his confidence a bit. He's well able to win off his chase mark and he loves soft ground. He needs to be high on confidence but we can win a nice race with him.
Saint Roque
He was disappointing last season as a novice hurdler, when he wasn't seeing out his races. He's had a breathing operation and hopefully we can start winning races with him. He should be chasing sooner rather than later.
Atlantic Roller
He's needed time and ran in a couple of bumpers last season. He'll want three miles over hurdles and he's forward now, ready to go. He'll be in novice hurdles for the time being but eventually he'll make a really nice staying chaser.
Jump City
He's consistently good and was second to Darlan at Taunton in January and that one is thought to be a Champion Hurdle candidate at his yard. He jumps nicely and he'll be ready to go novice chasing in October. He might start at Exeter and will improve for a fence.
Black Thunder
I never felt he was really right in the spring, despite his win at Chepstow. There's a decent hurdle race at the second Chepstow meeting in October and I'll try to have him ready for that. He's done so well this summer and he'll have no problem jumping a fence.
Provo
He was backward last year when we got him. He was fifth in a decent bumper at Ascot and then won his only point to point with Richard Barber. Whatever he achieves over hurdles will be a bonus because he needs fences in a year's time. He's still in the 'big baby' category.
Rolling Aces
He'll go novice chasing and was always going to be much better over fences. A breathing operation has definitely improved him enormously and he'll be ready to run at the end of October. Ignore his last run, when he was down the field at Wincanton, as he was well below his best.
Come On Ginger
He's a full brother to Brindisi Breeze and a lovely young horse to put in your notebook. He ran in two point to points and won both. He's big and gangly but he jumped and travelled and we're really pleased with him. I'm looking at the novice hurdle at Wincanton at the end of October that Denman started off in seven years ago. He's big and scopey and he's done everything right so far.
Silviniaco Conti
We'll run him in the Charlie Hall at Wetherby and then make a plan. He'll probably have an entry in the King George but he might be an ideal horse for Aintree in the spring and we'll give him plenty of time. He might be a Gold Cup contender in 2014 rather than 2013, as he could get stronger and more consistent.
Rebel Rebellion
We had high hopes for him last season but he was disappointing on his first run at Chepstow and it turned out that he'd injured a tendon. We've given him lots of time and he's done very well. He'll go over fences now at two miles and we'll try to start off in a beginners chase at Exeter or somewhere like that. He jumps extremely well.
Dodging Bullets
He would be one of the best maidens in training. He was fourth in the Triumph Hurdle after running a bit free and wasn't at his best at Aintree. He's done well for his first summer out and will be aimed at the four-year-olds only hurdle at Cheltenham in October. He's a horse to follow.
Cedre Bleu
A big, scopey chaser, he's crying out for three miles. He started coughing after the new year and never really got over that all season. There's no real plan at the moment. We'll get him fit and ready and find a three-mile handicap chase somewhere. He's also eligible for graduation chases. I'd like to think he'd be winning.
Poquelin
I never really had him right last season. We tried him in the Charlie Hall but he blatantly didn't stay. He'll run in all the two-and-a-half-mile handicap chases at Cheltenham. He'll have top weight but we'll put a claimer on him, Harry Derham or someone like that, so he'll only have 11-5 to carry. I'm sure there's still another race or two in him.
Ranjaan
He took a while to come to himself last season after being gelded over the summer but managed to win twice in novice hurdles. We were preparing him for the Triumph Hurdle when he had a small injury. He'll stay hurdling and we hope he can develop into a top-level performer. He will eventually make a chaser. He's twice the size he was this time last year.
Harry The Viking
He was second in the four-miler at the last Cheltenham Festival but was over the top when he was pulled up in the Scottish National. He might be an obvious type for the Grand National, he stays forever. He'll probably go for the Badger Ales at Wincanton early in the season and then the Hennessy. We'll try to win a three mile handicap chase with him and then look after him with the National in mind. He keeps a bit to himself but I'm sure there's plenty more races to be won with him.
Domtaline
He won a handicap hurdle at Chepstow in October and then took an age to get back to the same form on the same ground before winning twice over fences in spring. He wants decent ground and two and a half miles in a novice chase. He'll be ready to run at Chepstow or Cheltenham in October.
Prospect Wells
Was high class on the Flat before joining us last season and doing really well over hurdles. We had an enormous problem trying to get him jumping. I'm dying to try him over two and a half miles and I think he'll continue to progress and improve.
Hinterland
Here's a horse you definitely want in your '10 to follow' list. He's a four-year-old novice chaser, a very big, scopey, chasing sort. He jumps nicely, he's well forward and he should turn up at the first Cheltenham meeting in a two-mile novice chase. Then he might go for the race we won with Al Ferof at the November meeting there. He's got loads of speed.
Edgardo Sol
He showed incredible improvement last season. He won off 127 at Aintree in October. By the time of their big meeting in April, he was on 143 and he won again. Life will be a lot harder for him this season but I'm sure there's another race in him.
Buck's Bond
His dam is a half-sister to Big Buck's and he's spent a couple of seasons point to pointing to gain experience. He's been big and backward but he jumps really well and he'll be ready to run from mid-October. He'll probably go novice chasing and he can stay three miles in soft ground.
Royal Charm
He looks as well as I've seen him since we've had him. He was a bit disappointing last season, when he fell on his first start and lost his confidence a bit. He's well able to win off his chase mark and he loves soft ground. He needs to be high on confidence but we can win a nice race with him.
Saint Roque
He was disappointing last season as a novice hurdler, when he wasn't seeing out his races. He's had a breathing operation and hopefully we can start winning races with him. He should be chasing sooner rather than later.
Atlantic Roller
He's needed time and ran in a couple of bumpers last season. He'll want three miles over hurdles and he's forward now, ready to go. He'll be in novice hurdles for the time being but eventually he'll make a really nice staying chaser.
Jump City
He's consistently good and was second to Darlan at Taunton in January and that one is thought to be a Champion Hurdle candidate at his yard. He jumps nicely and he'll be ready to go novice chasing in October. He might start at Exeter and will improve for a fence.
Is Zarkander going chasing or staying hurdling and if the latter, over which trip ?
Mcllhatton
An Irish points winner that we bought at Cheltenham in spring for £62,000. He's by Fruits Of Love, who most of you might not have heard of. If he'd been by Presenting, he'd have cost a fortune. He'll run in a bumper, then hurdles and he'll be in chases next year.
Likeable Rogue
He must have done something right last season because he got up to a mark of 128 without winning. He'll probably run in one three-mile novice hurdle and then go chasing. He stays forever but I'd be surprised if he can't win over hurdles first.
That'lldoboy
He improved all last season and through the summer. He was a bit unlucky last season, falling in both his last two starts when he was getting into a challenging position. He could have won both. He picked up an injury but he's over that now. He'll stay three miles and we'll look for handicap chases at Cheltenham and Newbury.
Workbench
He's done well for a bit of time off, having travelled well in two bumpers last season before failing to see it out to the finish. He might run in another bumper in October and then he'll go novice hurdling. He jumps well and should leave last year's form well behind.
Grandioso
He took time to come right last season but eventually won on his final race at Ayr. He's a novice over hurdles until November, so we might run him once in October before going chasing.
Brampour
Won a couple of good handicap hurdles under Harry Derham early last season but lost his form a bit in the New Year. Things will be hard for him with his high rating this season but Harry can still claim 7lb off him. He'll step up to two and a half miles at some point.
Roger Beantown
He's a lovely individual but we never had him right all last year and he didn't make it to the track. He bled in his box and there were other small problems. He's had a summer out and done really well. He'll go novice hurdling and we might start with a maiden hurdle in mid-October. He's a dark horse who could be an interesting one to follow. He looks a totally different horse to last season.
Ulck Du Lin
He won over hurdles and fences in France before joining us in the middle of last season. Everything was happening a bit quickly for him in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival but he ran well on his next two starts. He's not a novice over fences, so he'll have to go into handicap chases over two and a half miles but he jumps and stays well. He should leave last year's form behind, now that he's had time to acclimatise.
Salubrious
Won over hurdles at Taunton in December but then he had a problem with a fractured tooth and didn't run again. He'll be aimed at a handicap hurdle at the end of October or at the Paddy Power meeting. I really like him and I think there's plenty more to come.
Tataniano
Won at Chepstow in October but then got a minor leg injury and hasn't run since. He's been back in a while and we're looking at running in the same race at Chepstow. He'll have an entry in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. He's a decent horse and, if we can keep him right, there are more races to be won with him, though he's not been the easiest to train.
Landscape
He took a while to get over being gelded last season but the summer off has done him good and he'll be running in novice hurdles from October onwards.
Rangitoto
Won over hurdles at Cheltenham in November and on his fences debut at Wincanton on Boxing Day but then he fell on his only other start. He's not the easiest to train but there are definitely races to be won with him. He'll have his first start in the Badger Ales Chase.
Tidal Bay
Like the other horses we got from up north [Howard Johnson's yard], he took a little while to come to himself and we're always learning about him. He gave me one of my proudest moments of last season on the very last day of it, when he won the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. You will never see a horse win one of those big staying handicap chases more easily under top weight. We think we have the key to riding him now and hope we can build up his confidence. You've got to walk him out of the gate. I told Daryl [Jacob] before the Sandown race, ride him like Neptune [in the Grand National]. There's more to come from him and he'll be entered in the Welsh National and the Grand National and we might consider runnijng him in Ireland.
Funny Star
Bought from France, where he won his only start so far at Auteuil. He's a novice over hurdles until 1 November and we might run him in the Persian War at Chepstow. After that, he might go chasing or stay over hurdles.
Far West
A lovely three-year-old who was third at Auteuil on his only start so far. He's ready made for juvenile hurdles and 'National Hunt' novice hurdles. He'll be ready to run at the end of September or early October. He's sure to jump fences in time.
Wonderful Charm
A half-brother to Royal Charm who showed some top class form in France. He's a novice over hurdles until November and he's another possible candidate for the Persian War at Chepstow. I suspect he won't go chasing this year, we'll probably give him a nice, easy year.
For Two
He won his only start to date at Auteuil and is definitely going to make a chaser in time but we'll look after him this year. He's very forward for a three-year-old.
Five Dream
He doesn't like fences, which is a shame, because he's about 50lb lower in the handicap over them. He's become very hard to place but we'll run him in all the good staying races and he might be able to get some good prize money behind Big Buck's, especially if Big Buck's has frightened off all the opposition. But life's tough for him.
Toby Lerone
Won a couple of points for Richard Barber last season and then we tried him in a bumper and he was very disappointing. He was probably in need of a holiday and he's not really a bumper horse anyway. He's definitely improved, physically, and he'll be running in three-mile novice hurdles from November. He's not the biggest but he does jump well and he's got a future over fences.
There's No Panic
Missed last year with a leg injury after being a decent novice hurdler for us the season before. He's been in since July and we're dying to go chasing with him. He jumps really well. He's won at two miles but should now be most at home over an extended trip. When he runs, he'll be ready to win.
An Irish points winner that we bought at Cheltenham in spring for £62,000. He's by Fruits Of Love, who most of you might not have heard of. If he'd been by Presenting, he'd have cost a fortune. He'll run in a bumper, then hurdles and he'll be in chases next year.
Likeable Rogue
He must have done something right last season because he got up to a mark of 128 without winning. He'll probably run in one three-mile novice hurdle and then go chasing. He stays forever but I'd be surprised if he can't win over hurdles first.
That'lldoboy
He improved all last season and through the summer. He was a bit unlucky last season, falling in both his last two starts when he was getting into a challenging position. He could have won both. He picked up an injury but he's over that now. He'll stay three miles and we'll look for handicap chases at Cheltenham and Newbury.
Workbench
He's done well for a bit of time off, having travelled well in two bumpers last season before failing to see it out to the finish. He might run in another bumper in October and then he'll go novice hurdling. He jumps well and should leave last year's form well behind.
Grandioso
He took time to come right last season but eventually won on his final race at Ayr. He's a novice over hurdles until November, so we might run him once in October before going chasing.
Brampour
Won a couple of good handicap hurdles under Harry Derham early last season but lost his form a bit in the New Year. Things will be hard for him with his high rating this season but Harry can still claim 7lb off him. He'll step up to two and a half miles at some point.
Roger Beantown
He's a lovely individual but we never had him right all last year and he didn't make it to the track. He bled in his box and there were other small problems. He's had a summer out and done really well. He'll go novice hurdling and we might start with a maiden hurdle in mid-October. He's a dark horse who could be an interesting one to follow. He looks a totally different horse to last season.
Ulck Du Lin
He won over hurdles and fences in France before joining us in the middle of last season. Everything was happening a bit quickly for him in the Fred Winter at the Cheltenham Festival but he ran well on his next two starts. He's not a novice over fences, so he'll have to go into handicap chases over two and a half miles but he jumps and stays well. He should leave last year's form behind, now that he's had time to acclimatise.
Salubrious
Won over hurdles at Taunton in December but then he had a problem with a fractured tooth and didn't run again. He'll be aimed at a handicap hurdle at the end of October or at the Paddy Power meeting. I really like him and I think there's plenty more to come.
Tataniano
Won at Chepstow in October but then got a minor leg injury and hasn't run since. He's been back in a while and we're looking at running in the same race at Chepstow. He'll have an entry in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. He's a decent horse and, if we can keep him right, there are more races to be won with him, though he's not been the easiest to train.
Landscape
He took a while to get over being gelded last season but the summer off has done him good and he'll be running in novice hurdles from October onwards.
Rangitoto
Won over hurdles at Cheltenham in November and on his fences debut at Wincanton on Boxing Day but then he fell on his only other start. He's not the easiest to train but there are definitely races to be won with him. He'll have his first start in the Badger Ales Chase.
Tidal Bay
Like the other horses we got from up north [Howard Johnson's yard], he took a little while to come to himself and we're always learning about him. He gave me one of my proudest moments of last season on the very last day of it, when he won the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. You will never see a horse win one of those big staying handicap chases more easily under top weight. We think we have the key to riding him now and hope we can build up his confidence. You've got to walk him out of the gate. I told Daryl [Jacob] before the Sandown race, ride him like Neptune [in the Grand National]. There's more to come from him and he'll be entered in the Welsh National and the Grand National and we might consider runnijng him in Ireland.
Funny Star
Bought from France, where he won his only start so far at Auteuil. He's a novice over hurdles until 1 November and we might run him in the Persian War at Chepstow. After that, he might go chasing or stay over hurdles.
Far West
A lovely three-year-old who was third at Auteuil on his only start so far. He's ready made for juvenile hurdles and 'National Hunt' novice hurdles. He'll be ready to run at the end of September or early October. He's sure to jump fences in time.
Wonderful Charm
A half-brother to Royal Charm who showed some top class form in France. He's a novice over hurdles until November and he's another possible candidate for the Persian War at Chepstow. I suspect he won't go chasing this year, we'll probably give him a nice, easy year.
For Two
He won his only start to date at Auteuil and is definitely going to make a chaser in time but we'll look after him this year. He's very forward for a three-year-old.
Five Dream
He doesn't like fences, which is a shame, because he's about 50lb lower in the handicap over them. He's become very hard to place but we'll run him in all the good staying races and he might be able to get some good prize money behind Big Buck's, especially if Big Buck's has frightened off all the opposition. But life's tough for him.
Toby Lerone
Won a couple of points for Richard Barber last season and then we tried him in a bumper and he was very disappointing. He was probably in need of a holiday and he's not really a bumper horse anyway. He's definitely improved, physically, and he'll be running in three-mile novice hurdles from November. He's not the biggest but he does jump well and he's got a future over fences.
There's No Panic
Missed last year with a leg injury after being a decent novice hurdler for us the season before. He's been in since July and we're dying to go chasing with him. He jumps really well. He's won at two miles but should now be most at home over an extended trip. When he runs, he'll be ready to win.
Cheers for info 3132 and Fabulous although not heard about retirement.
see above for other horses, maybe the minack has been let go.
I have to say after reading through all of Nicholls stable now, it doesn't look as exciting as previous years, plenty of youngsters but not as many superstars.
I have to say after reading through all of Nicholls stable now, it doesn't look as exciting as previous years, plenty of youngsters but not as many superstars.
the stable tour above is from the guardian, there may be more to come tomorrow, re Zarkander.
Long Run gagging for a bit of soft ground and 4 miles around chepstow 
Betfair did a video for last years owners open day, does anybody know if one is available this year?
http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/video-paul-nicholls-owners-open-day/1108499/#newsArchiveTabs=last7DaysNews
One on the RP site, nt great but worth a look
One on the RP site, nt great but worth a look
Moscow Mannon, last seen finishing fourth in the Champion Bumper at the Cheltenham Festival, is to embark upon a hurdling career.
Moscow Mannon: Fourth in the Champion Bumper
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The Brian Hamilton-trained six-year-old got to within five and a half lengths of Champagne Fever, having previously won three races on the spin.
Moscow Mannon's first assignment over hurdles is likely to be at Down Royal in November.
"He's tipping away and we'll try to have him ready for Down Royal," said Hamilton.
Profiles B R Hamilton Moscow Mannon (IRE)
"We thought about running him over fences, but it's a bit unfair as he hasn't run in point-to-points or anything.
"He'll start over hurdles and we'll see what way he goes afterwards."
Moscow Mannon: Fourth in the Champion Bumper
Related ContentLive horse racing resultsRacecards and formLatest non-runnersLatest video replays
The Brian Hamilton-trained six-year-old got to within five and a half lengths of Champagne Fever, having previously won three races on the spin.
Moscow Mannon's first assignment over hurdles is likely to be at Down Royal in November.
"He's tipping away and we'll try to have him ready for Down Royal," said Hamilton.
Profiles B R Hamilton Moscow Mannon (IRE)
"We thought about running him over fences, but it's a bit unfair as he hasn't run in point-to-points or anything.
"He'll start over hurdles and we'll see what way he goes afterwards."
Deireadh Re
Won a Grade Two at Cheltenham in December among other races but was in need of a holiday when he ran third on his chasing debut at Fakenham in May. He's had a breathing operation and been cantering for about 10 days. He jumps fences well and will leave that Fakenham form well behind.
Suerte Al Salto
We fancied him for a Wincanton bumper but he choked and stopped. We had his breathing sorted before turning him out again at Fontwell, where he showed loads of speed to win. He'll now go novice hurdling. He jumps well, he likes decent ground and he'll be ready to run early.
Sky Watch
He won his only start in a Sandown bumper in February but he's not really a bumper horse. He's going to be a staying chaser but he'll go novice hurdling for a season and he's been schooling very well at home. He'll like a big, galloping track.
Aerial
Won a graduation chase at Ascot in December and a Grade Three handicap at Newbury in March. I think he'll keep improving and we may step him up in trip. He'll be entered in all the good races, as his high handicap rating gives him limited options. We might look at some Grade Ones in Ireland.
Current Event
Won three times over fences last season and wasn't at his best when third on his final start. He'll be in handicap chases from two to two and a half miles. He needs soft ground and I'm sure he'll win his couple of races.
Easter Day
Ran well in a couple of bumpers and ran into a well-readied and smart opponent when second at Worcester in May. He'll go novice hurdling and he jumps really nicely. He'll be ready to go in October.
Mr Mole
Won his only start so far in a soft-ground bumper at Hereford. He's a big, scopey sort who's done very well and goes really nicely. He goes novice hurdling but will be a lovely staying chaser for the future. He's the first horse that we've had in the yard for JP McManus, who's an interesting addition to the team.
No Loose Change
He won on his second start over fences last season and I think Ruby [Walsh, jockey] must have thought his arse was on fire because he won by 25 lengths and the horse went up a stone in the handicap. We're aiming at a decent three-mile handicap chase at Chepstow on 13 October. He wants decent ground and he might be the sort to catch fresh and first time out.
Oscargo
He did well over hurdles for a horse who's so big and won at Cheltenham's December meeting. He's ready to go chasing. He stays forever and might be a Grand National horse one day.
Poungach
I think he's the highest-rated hurdler that we have to go chasing this year. He was due to go novice chasing last season but he clearly needed more time before making that transition, so he won a handicap hurdle first time at Sandown and was then second to Oscar Whisky at Cheltenham. He's done lots of schooling and I'd love to start him somewhere like Wincanton or Worcester. He's not the most natural of jumpers so we've had to do a lot of work with him but when he gets it together, he'll be a nice horse to follow.
Empire Levant
He was second to Rock On Ruby at Newbury in November, which now looks like really good form, but I never really had him right after that. He's done well over the summer. He can win off his handicap mark over hurdles, so we'll try that again and then go chasing. There's plenty more to come from him as he strengthens up.
Sire Collonges
His career so far has been interrupted by a few niggles but we're confident those are behind him. He made all to win on his chasing debut at Fontwell in May, showing much improved form. He stayed well and jumped exceptionally well. He'll be aimed at the three-mile novice chase at the first Cheltenham meeting in October. You'll see plenty more of him this season.
Ghizao
He was fourth in the Haldon Gold Cup at the start of last season but then things didn't really go to plan and his season was ended by a setback. He's back doing two canters a day. I think he wants a step up in trip and I hope he can regain his form over a bit further.
Michel Le Bon
We had high hopes for him over fences last season but in hindsight the Hennessy might not have been the brightest place to start. We put him back over hurdles because he'd just lost his confidence and he won at Cheltenham in April. He'll go back over fences now. He wants soft ground and a trip, so he's an obvious type for something like the Welsh National.
Cristal Bonus
Won the Pendil at Kempton and we really fancied him at the Cheltenham Festival but he ran poorly and then we discovered an abscess on his wither, so that explained that. He was second to Menorah in a Grade Two at Aintree, which was more like it. He might go for the intermediate chase at Down Royal in November over two and a half miles and he likes soft ground.
Join Together
A novice chaser last season, when he won twice at Cheltenham before Christmas. He's going to be suited by a galloping track and big distances. He'll have an entry in the Hennessy and races at Leopardstown might suit him.
Zarkandar
He had a little injury that kept him off the course until February. Then he became the first horse ever to win the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on his seasonal debut but then developed a cough. He never really sparkled after that and did well in the circumstances to be fifth in the Champion Hurdle before falling at Aintree. He's looking really well and we'll let him tell us when he's ready. The Champion Hurdle is again the number one target and he might take in the International at Cheltenham in December. We accept he might need a bit further in time but he should be a stronger horse this year, as a lot of horses strengthen remarkably in their fourth to fifth year.
Cowards Close
A winning Irish pointer who will now go novice hurdling. He's a real staying horse who's been working hard and he'll be a lovely chaser in time.
Fox Run
An impressive winner of his only point in Ireland. We like what we see with him, he shows plenty of speed at home. He'll have one run in a bumper to give him some education and then he'll go novice hurdling. He'll be ready at the end of October and will make a chaser in time.
Captain Kelly
A points winner, he had a breathing operation and then ran second in a bumper on his debut for us last season. We gave him some time and he was then second on his hurdles debut at Fakenham in May. He needs a drop back in trip and decent ground and i'm sure he'll be up to winning novice hurdles. He'll make a staying chaser in time.
Sidney Melbourne
Came to us from Charlie Mann, having needed time off for an injury. He's been with us for about two weeks and will be ready to run in another eight. He's well up to winning some novice hurdles.
Won a Grade Two at Cheltenham in December among other races but was in need of a holiday when he ran third on his chasing debut at Fakenham in May. He's had a breathing operation and been cantering for about 10 days. He jumps fences well and will leave that Fakenham form well behind.
Suerte Al Salto
We fancied him for a Wincanton bumper but he choked and stopped. We had his breathing sorted before turning him out again at Fontwell, where he showed loads of speed to win. He'll now go novice hurdling. He jumps well, he likes decent ground and he'll be ready to run early.
Sky Watch
He won his only start in a Sandown bumper in February but he's not really a bumper horse. He's going to be a staying chaser but he'll go novice hurdling for a season and he's been schooling very well at home. He'll like a big, galloping track.
Aerial
Won a graduation chase at Ascot in December and a Grade Three handicap at Newbury in March. I think he'll keep improving and we may step him up in trip. He'll be entered in all the good races, as his high handicap rating gives him limited options. We might look at some Grade Ones in Ireland.
Current Event
Won three times over fences last season and wasn't at his best when third on his final start. He'll be in handicap chases from two to two and a half miles. He needs soft ground and I'm sure he'll win his couple of races.
Easter Day
Ran well in a couple of bumpers and ran into a well-readied and smart opponent when second at Worcester in May. He'll go novice hurdling and he jumps really nicely. He'll be ready to go in October.
Mr Mole
Won his only start so far in a soft-ground bumper at Hereford. He's a big, scopey sort who's done very well and goes really nicely. He goes novice hurdling but will be a lovely staying chaser for the future. He's the first horse that we've had in the yard for JP McManus, who's an interesting addition to the team.
No Loose Change
He won on his second start over fences last season and I think Ruby [Walsh, jockey] must have thought his arse was on fire because he won by 25 lengths and the horse went up a stone in the handicap. We're aiming at a decent three-mile handicap chase at Chepstow on 13 October. He wants decent ground and he might be the sort to catch fresh and first time out.
Oscargo
He did well over hurdles for a horse who's so big and won at Cheltenham's December meeting. He's ready to go chasing. He stays forever and might be a Grand National horse one day.
Poungach
I think he's the highest-rated hurdler that we have to go chasing this year. He was due to go novice chasing last season but he clearly needed more time before making that transition, so he won a handicap hurdle first time at Sandown and was then second to Oscar Whisky at Cheltenham. He's done lots of schooling and I'd love to start him somewhere like Wincanton or Worcester. He's not the most natural of jumpers so we've had to do a lot of work with him but when he gets it together, he'll be a nice horse to follow.
Empire Levant
He was second to Rock On Ruby at Newbury in November, which now looks like really good form, but I never really had him right after that. He's done well over the summer. He can win off his handicap mark over hurdles, so we'll try that again and then go chasing. There's plenty more to come from him as he strengthens up.
Sire Collonges
His career so far has been interrupted by a few niggles but we're confident those are behind him. He made all to win on his chasing debut at Fontwell in May, showing much improved form. He stayed well and jumped exceptionally well. He'll be aimed at the three-mile novice chase at the first Cheltenham meeting in October. You'll see plenty more of him this season.
Ghizao
He was fourth in the Haldon Gold Cup at the start of last season but then things didn't really go to plan and his season was ended by a setback. He's back doing two canters a day. I think he wants a step up in trip and I hope he can regain his form over a bit further.
Michel Le Bon
We had high hopes for him over fences last season but in hindsight the Hennessy might not have been the brightest place to start. We put him back over hurdles because he'd just lost his confidence and he won at Cheltenham in April. He'll go back over fences now. He wants soft ground and a trip, so he's an obvious type for something like the Welsh National.
Cristal Bonus
Won the Pendil at Kempton and we really fancied him at the Cheltenham Festival but he ran poorly and then we discovered an abscess on his wither, so that explained that. He was second to Menorah in a Grade Two at Aintree, which was more like it. He might go for the intermediate chase at Down Royal in November over two and a half miles and he likes soft ground.
Join Together
A novice chaser last season, when he won twice at Cheltenham before Christmas. He's going to be suited by a galloping track and big distances. He'll have an entry in the Hennessy and races at Leopardstown might suit him.
Zarkandar
He had a little injury that kept him off the course until February. Then he became the first horse ever to win the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on his seasonal debut but then developed a cough. He never really sparkled after that and did well in the circumstances to be fifth in the Champion Hurdle before falling at Aintree. He's looking really well and we'll let him tell us when he's ready. The Champion Hurdle is again the number one target and he might take in the International at Cheltenham in December. We accept he might need a bit further in time but he should be a stronger horse this year, as a lot of horses strengthen remarkably in their fourth to fifth year.
Cowards Close
A winning Irish pointer who will now go novice hurdling. He's a real staying horse who's been working hard and he'll be a lovely chaser in time.
Fox Run
An impressive winner of his only point in Ireland. We like what we see with him, he shows plenty of speed at home. He'll have one run in a bumper to give him some education and then he'll go novice hurdling. He'll be ready at the end of October and will make a chaser in time.
Captain Kelly
A points winner, he had a breathing operation and then ran second in a bumper on his debut for us last season. We gave him some time and he was then second on his hurdles debut at Fakenham in May. He needs a drop back in trip and decent ground and i'm sure he'll be up to winning novice hurdles. He'll make a staying chaser in time.
Sidney Melbourne
Came to us from Charlie Mann, having needed time off for an injury. He's been with us for about two weeks and will be ready to run in another eight. He's well up to winning some novice hurdles.
for those asking it looks like a champion hurdle campaign for zarkandar
Great stable tour from the Guardian; good to see this forum getting busier, means we are getting closer to proper jumps returning!
French-bred Long Run winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2011
and third in the 2012 running, is back in training with the same objectives as last
year: The major British jump racing fixtures.
His owner, Robert Waley-Cohen gave us an update:
"Long Run has been back at Nick Henderson's yard for a couple
of weeks. He was just a boy before, but now
he's grown into a man. He has really matured
and gained a lot of strength.
" Long Run will have the same preparatory program for the Gold Cup as last year.
"He should start his season with the Betfair Chase (Group 1) at Haydock. After that,
he'll certainly go to Kempton for the Group 1 King George Chase, and finally
Cheltenham.
This coming season should be his for the taking, and if he wins his four
races, that would be fantastic!"
Well, why change it when it worked so well
and third in the 2012 running, is back in training with the same objectives as last
year: The major British jump racing fixtures.
His owner, Robert Waley-Cohen gave us an update:
"Long Run has been back at Nick Henderson's yard for a couple
of weeks. He was just a boy before, but now
he's grown into a man. He has really matured
and gained a lot of strength.
" Long Run will have the same preparatory program for the Gold Cup as last year.
"He should start his season with the Betfair Chase (Group 1) at Haydock. After that,
he'll certainly go to Kempton for the Group 1 King George Chase, and finally
Cheltenham.
This coming season should be his for the taking, and if he wins his four
races, that would be fantastic!"
Well, why change it when it worked so well
thanks guys - bizarrely more excited by Tidal Bay than any of the others almost - genius training to get him to win the Whitbread (or whatever it's called) like he did - would n't be that surprised to see him do similar in the Welsh National but, for me, he's a bit too much of a thinker for Aintree.
I'm looking forward to seeing Lavelle's Benign Dictator who I saw win the Bumper at Haydock on the day Kauto brought the house down - he's enormous, hope he goes novice hurdling.
I'm looking forward to seeing Lavelle's Benign Dictator who I saw win the Bumper at Haydock on the day Kauto brought the house down - he's enormous, hope he goes novice hurdling.
Anthony Honeyball, Rising Star – Stable Tour
Potwell Farm Stables
Nestled just outside the sleepy Dorset village of Mosterton is Potwell Farm Stables, HQ for one of the more upwardly mobile National Hunt handlers, Anthony Honeyball; and his partner, head lass, stable jockey and all round bastion of the yard, Rachael Green.
Honeyball and Green have enjoyed a strong start to their respective careers, and the last two years are noteworthy for the impressive trajectory of the stable’s winner tally, which has been achieved without impact to the strike rate.
Indeed, in 2010/11, the Honeyball team won fourteen races from just 64 runners (with a further 22 placed 2nd to 4th); and last season, he saddled 24 winners from 89 runners (with 32 more 2nd to 4th, a remarkable 74% of runners in the first four!).
The win strike rates are 22% and a hugely impressively 27% respectively, and they present a tough bar to surpass.
But the really impressive element is that prize money won has increased from around £49,000 in 2010/11 to around £112,000 in 2011/12. That means that, not only are the team improving the number of wins, but they’re also winning better quality races.
Honeyball and Green have been a combination I’ve had on side for a couple of years now, and are featured in my ‘Winning Trainers’ report.
And, as a member of the Anthony Honeyball Racing Club, I was lucky enough to be shown around the Potwell Farm Stables last weekend, and here is what AJH himself had to say about his equine equipe for the season…
Alpancho – 6yo gelding
Ran twice in bumpers last term. Schooled well, and could take some beating in a 2m4f-3m hurdle first time out. Will make a lovely chaser in time.
As De Fer – 6yo gelding – OR 143 chase / 133 hurdle
Had a wind op since last season, after not quite getting home in his races. That could improve him and, if it does, he might win a nice race. Probably wants it soft and a flattish track.
Atlantic Tiger – 5yo gelding – OR 77 flat
Been off the track for two years, and formerly with Mark ‘Always Trying’ Johnston, but he works quite well and could be ready to win. There’s a possible two mile handicap at York, at which he might be aimed.
Ballybough Pat – 5yo gelding
Won a point to point for the stable and then did it nicely in a Ffos Las bumper last term, and is figured to be a nice horse for novice hurdles this time around. Could be a very decent horse for the yard and, if things drop right, he’ll be aimed at the Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival.
Blue Zealot – 5yo mare
Formerly with Michael Bell, she’s seemingly been sweetened up by a change of scenery. Two runs since her arrival have yielded two runners up spots, and should be a fun flat horse. She’ll go over a hurdle at some point.
Chantara Rose
She might be a nice one to look out for in mares’ bumpers from October onwards, and her ultimate aim might be the £50,000 DBS Mares’ Bumper at Newbury, or possibly the Listed Sandown route. All depends on her first run.
Cresswell Crusader – 8yo gelding – OR 119 hurdle
AJH Club horse. Has had a number of niggles, which are slowly being put right. He’s suffered with a persistent hock issue, which is being managed; and he’s also had a wind operation since last season. He looked pretty fit and, all being well, could run at the end of September. Must have soft ground, and will likely start in a handicap hurdle.
Danimix – 7yo gelding – OR 127 chase
Won at Worcester but unfortunately injured himself in the process. Currently on box rest, and we’ll see how he goes. May hopefully be back in February/March time.
Dorset Naga – 6yo gelding – OR 114 chase / 107 hurdle
Named after a very hot chilli pepper, this fellow has had a wind op since last year. He’d been consistently placed (five of seven runs ended with third or fourth position) before finally winning last time at Fontwell. He might still have some progression in him off the back of the operation and a novice chase win.
Eleven Fifty Nine – 6yo mare
A flagship horse for the yard, this lass won or placed in all five of her bumper starts last year. The highlights were a close third in the Listed Sandown mares’ NH Flat race, and a win at Aintree in the Listed mares’ NH Flat race. She’ll be kept to mares’ novice hurdles this term, and is likely to take very high rank in that brigade. Late season target might be Newbury’s Mares’ Final race. One for ten to follow lists!
Hell’s Spirit – 4yo Gelding
Nice horse. This chap won his only point-to-point start for David Dennis, and has now moved to the Honeyball yard. The trainer is very much looking forward to running him, and thinks he could be pretty smart.
He’s Our Lad – 6yo gelding – OR 133 chase / 133 hurdle
Very game and consistent, as evidenced by his matching 133 ratings for both hurdles and chases. Moreover, he’s been in the frame on all bar two of his fourteen completed starts. He may run Saturday in a decent race, and will have a (n obvious) place chance.
Jackies Solitaire – 4yo filly – OR 124 hurdle
A really likeable sort as a juvenile hurdler last year, she was unlucky not to win a Grade 2 at Doncaster before staying on after missing the break in the Fred Winter. She might have been over the top when running below par on her final start, and it will be interesting to see how she fares in handicap hurdles this term off her current mark.
Jaja De Jau – 3yo filly
Just the one flat run, when green and a little backward at Kempton in May. She might do better in a twelve furlong maiden now. She’s a half brother to Sergeant Cecil.
Kalani King – 5yo gelding
Cost £20k, and was 3rd in a £50k bumper on debut. Will probably start in a novice hurdle in October, but will make a nice chaser in time. Worth following when he does go over fences.
Marie Des Anges – 4yo filly – OR 111 hurdle
Inherited from Alison Thorpe’s yard when she handed back her license. Won first time out for AJH, then third on two subsequent starts, the latter of which was very falsely run and wouldn’t have suited. She might now go chasing or head for a two mile handicap hurdle, where she’ll need them to go a decent gallop.
Midnight Minx – 5yo mare
Only run twice, but won both starts in bumpers. She’s still eligible for bumpers this term, and will take the Eleven Fifty Nine route towards the Sandown and Aintree Listed Mares’ Bumpers. AJH rates her as highly as 11:59, which means she must be very good. Another for ten to follow lists!
Mister Hendre – 4yo gelding
Not a world beater, but the yard think they know where they are with him now. Will be interesting in three mile handicaps, where hopefully he can win one or two.
On The Buckle –
Could be a nice horse if he takes to racing, and a NH Flat race on a galloping track in October is a possible. Time will tell with him.
Oscartier –
Bought for 65,000 euros at the sales, he is a very fluent mover and hurdler. Won’t be seen out too early, and certainly won’t be rushed, but a very nice prospect.
Regal Encore – 4yo gelding
You will never see a more facile bumper victory than Regal Encore’s two length violation of Ron and the rest in a Southwell all weather race back in February. This chap has been sold to none other than JP McManus, who will be a very interesting new owner for the yard, and he looks destined for big things, if that first run is anything to go by. Will run in a bumper in October.
Royal Announcement – 5yo gelding
AJH Club horse. A slow maturing, stamina-laden chap. He will Likely head first to a soft ground flat track bumper, and might be ready around the end of October/early November. Most likely to come into his own over further in due course, and could do well for the club.
Royal Native – 4yo gelding
Been second in two of his four bumpers, and will now go novice hurdling. He’ll probably start over two miles, but will be of more interest over further, especially in a handicap. One to keep an eye on for a step up in trip/first time in a handicap.
Rocquaine Sauvage –
AJH Club horse. Just off the boat from Ireland, and a few problems to iron out. Will hopefully be a nice club horse in time.
Sir Toby Tiler –
Another expensive purchase from the sales, this time weighing in at 100,000 Euros. He’s a very fluent mover and a good jumper and, like Oscartier (same ownership), he won’t be rushed. One to look out for, and could be a flagship horse in time.
Taradrewe – 5yo mare
Fourth when Eleven Fifty Nine was third in the Listed Sandown Bumper, though at a respectful distance. A lot to look forward to all the same, first in bumpers and then novice hurdles. She could be a nice mare.
Uncle Johnny – 7yo gelding – OR 88 hurdle
A very lowly hurdle mark for the yard, and has been hobdayed (throat operation) since last term. Has something to prove, and might need to prove it pronto if not to be moved on…
Unnamed 3yo Oscar gelding
Bought for 31,000 Euros, and a very nice looking fellow indeed. By a very fashionable (and effective) sire, he’s being syndicated into six shares at £5,000 apiece. I’m sorely tempted to get involved, but would need a few Geegeez readers to join me to justify a share I think. I think…!
AJH is really pleased with his acquisition, and is retaining a good percentage of the horse himself, which may also be a pointer to his ability.
Velator – 5yo gelding – OR 125 hurdle
Looked to be going nowhere after six runs over two miles or thereabouts. Revitalised in handicaps and over a trip of three miles plus, he’s now won his last three, and been caned by the handicapper as a consequence. Needs good ground, and may run at Perth soon. Still has a chance of the four-timer despite being raised 39 pounds (!) by the handicapper since that first win.
Vicator – 4yo gelding
As the name suggests, he’s a full brother to Velator and, so far, he’s got all the ability of his bro in two mile soft ground bumpers. Expect better when the ground dries up, the trip goes up, and the handicap mark has been allotted.
Victors Serenade – 7yo gelding – OR 140 chase / 133 hurdle
Almost saving the best for last, Victors Serenade has been in the first three in all of his last seven completed starts. In winning his last two races, he’s been bumped up to a notch of 140, which makes him a decent old stick. Could go for a 0-145 chase in November. He shows his best on heavy ground and, if all goes well, would go next to the Welsh National in late December.
My three to keep an eye on
Classy
Eleven Fifty Nine – she could carry all before her in mares’ novice hurdles this year and, whilst it probably won’t make you rich following her, it might well make you smile.
Could win at a nice price
Victors Serenade – he’s still only seven and relatively lightly raced. As such, he’s got a lot of scope to improve and is already rated 140. Having won off 11-12 last season, weight won’t stop him, and nor will heavy ground. A flat track, heavy going Graded handicap chase looks within his compass, all being well, and I’ll be following him closely.
Could be anything material
Regal Encore – Watch his Southwell win if you can. It’s on RacingPost.com and ATR as well, I think. He destroyed his rivals that day and, whilst the form is hard to quantify, it was an imperious display. He will start in bumpers and, as a JP McManus-owned horse, he’ll hope to end up at one of the Festivals, ideally Cheltenham. It’s possible that this will be the horse which puts Anthony James Honeyball squarely on the map of top trainers to follow.
Two final thoughts, picked up as we wandered around the yard:
“We always feel like we can improve them a little bit” – watch out for horses making their debut for the yard having previously been trained elsewhere.
Indeed, of the nineteen horses making their first start for AJH having previously been trained and raced elsewhere, five have won, for a thirty point level stake profit!
“If we go a long distance, we tend to think they have a good chance” – watch out for AJH horses on the longest traveler lists.
Potwell Farm Stables
Nestled just outside the sleepy Dorset village of Mosterton is Potwell Farm Stables, HQ for one of the more upwardly mobile National Hunt handlers, Anthony Honeyball; and his partner, head lass, stable jockey and all round bastion of the yard, Rachael Green.
Honeyball and Green have enjoyed a strong start to their respective careers, and the last two years are noteworthy for the impressive trajectory of the stable’s winner tally, which has been achieved without impact to the strike rate.
Indeed, in 2010/11, the Honeyball team won fourteen races from just 64 runners (with a further 22 placed 2nd to 4th); and last season, he saddled 24 winners from 89 runners (with 32 more 2nd to 4th, a remarkable 74% of runners in the first four!).
The win strike rates are 22% and a hugely impressively 27% respectively, and they present a tough bar to surpass.
But the really impressive element is that prize money won has increased from around £49,000 in 2010/11 to around £112,000 in 2011/12. That means that, not only are the team improving the number of wins, but they’re also winning better quality races.
Honeyball and Green have been a combination I’ve had on side for a couple of years now, and are featured in my ‘Winning Trainers’ report.
And, as a member of the Anthony Honeyball Racing Club, I was lucky enough to be shown around the Potwell Farm Stables last weekend, and here is what AJH himself had to say about his equine equipe for the season…
Alpancho – 6yo gelding
Ran twice in bumpers last term. Schooled well, and could take some beating in a 2m4f-3m hurdle first time out. Will make a lovely chaser in time.
As De Fer – 6yo gelding – OR 143 chase / 133 hurdle
Had a wind op since last season, after not quite getting home in his races. That could improve him and, if it does, he might win a nice race. Probably wants it soft and a flattish track.
Atlantic Tiger – 5yo gelding – OR 77 flat
Been off the track for two years, and formerly with Mark ‘Always Trying’ Johnston, but he works quite well and could be ready to win. There’s a possible two mile handicap at York, at which he might be aimed.
Ballybough Pat – 5yo gelding
Won a point to point for the stable and then did it nicely in a Ffos Las bumper last term, and is figured to be a nice horse for novice hurdles this time around. Could be a very decent horse for the yard and, if things drop right, he’ll be aimed at the Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival.
Blue Zealot – 5yo mare
Formerly with Michael Bell, she’s seemingly been sweetened up by a change of scenery. Two runs since her arrival have yielded two runners up spots, and should be a fun flat horse. She’ll go over a hurdle at some point.
Chantara Rose
She might be a nice one to look out for in mares’ bumpers from October onwards, and her ultimate aim might be the £50,000 DBS Mares’ Bumper at Newbury, or possibly the Listed Sandown route. All depends on her first run.
Cresswell Crusader – 8yo gelding – OR 119 hurdle
AJH Club horse. Has had a number of niggles, which are slowly being put right. He’s suffered with a persistent hock issue, which is being managed; and he’s also had a wind operation since last season. He looked pretty fit and, all being well, could run at the end of September. Must have soft ground, and will likely start in a handicap hurdle.
Danimix – 7yo gelding – OR 127 chase
Won at Worcester but unfortunately injured himself in the process. Currently on box rest, and we’ll see how he goes. May hopefully be back in February/March time.
Dorset Naga – 6yo gelding – OR 114 chase / 107 hurdle
Named after a very hot chilli pepper, this fellow has had a wind op since last year. He’d been consistently placed (five of seven runs ended with third or fourth position) before finally winning last time at Fontwell. He might still have some progression in him off the back of the operation and a novice chase win.
Eleven Fifty Nine – 6yo mare
A flagship horse for the yard, this lass won or placed in all five of her bumper starts last year. The highlights were a close third in the Listed Sandown mares’ NH Flat race, and a win at Aintree in the Listed mares’ NH Flat race. She’ll be kept to mares’ novice hurdles this term, and is likely to take very high rank in that brigade. Late season target might be Newbury’s Mares’ Final race. One for ten to follow lists!
Hell’s Spirit – 4yo Gelding
Nice horse. This chap won his only point-to-point start for David Dennis, and has now moved to the Honeyball yard. The trainer is very much looking forward to running him, and thinks he could be pretty smart.
He’s Our Lad – 6yo gelding – OR 133 chase / 133 hurdle
Very game and consistent, as evidenced by his matching 133 ratings for both hurdles and chases. Moreover, he’s been in the frame on all bar two of his fourteen completed starts. He may run Saturday in a decent race, and will have a (n obvious) place chance.
Jackies Solitaire – 4yo filly – OR 124 hurdle
A really likeable sort as a juvenile hurdler last year, she was unlucky not to win a Grade 2 at Doncaster before staying on after missing the break in the Fred Winter. She might have been over the top when running below par on her final start, and it will be interesting to see how she fares in handicap hurdles this term off her current mark.
Jaja De Jau – 3yo filly
Just the one flat run, when green and a little backward at Kempton in May. She might do better in a twelve furlong maiden now. She’s a half brother to Sergeant Cecil.
Kalani King – 5yo gelding
Cost £20k, and was 3rd in a £50k bumper on debut. Will probably start in a novice hurdle in October, but will make a nice chaser in time. Worth following when he does go over fences.
Marie Des Anges – 4yo filly – OR 111 hurdle
Inherited from Alison Thorpe’s yard when she handed back her license. Won first time out for AJH, then third on two subsequent starts, the latter of which was very falsely run and wouldn’t have suited. She might now go chasing or head for a two mile handicap hurdle, where she’ll need them to go a decent gallop.
Midnight Minx – 5yo mare
Only run twice, but won both starts in bumpers. She’s still eligible for bumpers this term, and will take the Eleven Fifty Nine route towards the Sandown and Aintree Listed Mares’ Bumpers. AJH rates her as highly as 11:59, which means she must be very good. Another for ten to follow lists!
Mister Hendre – 4yo gelding
Not a world beater, but the yard think they know where they are with him now. Will be interesting in three mile handicaps, where hopefully he can win one or two.
On The Buckle –
Could be a nice horse if he takes to racing, and a NH Flat race on a galloping track in October is a possible. Time will tell with him.
Oscartier –
Bought for 65,000 euros at the sales, he is a very fluent mover and hurdler. Won’t be seen out too early, and certainly won’t be rushed, but a very nice prospect.
Regal Encore – 4yo gelding
You will never see a more facile bumper victory than Regal Encore’s two length violation of Ron and the rest in a Southwell all weather race back in February. This chap has been sold to none other than JP McManus, who will be a very interesting new owner for the yard, and he looks destined for big things, if that first run is anything to go by. Will run in a bumper in October.
Royal Announcement – 5yo gelding
AJH Club horse. A slow maturing, stamina-laden chap. He will Likely head first to a soft ground flat track bumper, and might be ready around the end of October/early November. Most likely to come into his own over further in due course, and could do well for the club.
Royal Native – 4yo gelding
Been second in two of his four bumpers, and will now go novice hurdling. He’ll probably start over two miles, but will be of more interest over further, especially in a handicap. One to keep an eye on for a step up in trip/first time in a handicap.
Rocquaine Sauvage –
AJH Club horse. Just off the boat from Ireland, and a few problems to iron out. Will hopefully be a nice club horse in time.
Sir Toby Tiler –
Another expensive purchase from the sales, this time weighing in at 100,000 Euros. He’s a very fluent mover and a good jumper and, like Oscartier (same ownership), he won’t be rushed. One to look out for, and could be a flagship horse in time.
Taradrewe – 5yo mare
Fourth when Eleven Fifty Nine was third in the Listed Sandown Bumper, though at a respectful distance. A lot to look forward to all the same, first in bumpers and then novice hurdles. She could be a nice mare.
Uncle Johnny – 7yo gelding – OR 88 hurdle
A very lowly hurdle mark for the yard, and has been hobdayed (throat operation) since last term. Has something to prove, and might need to prove it pronto if not to be moved on…
Unnamed 3yo Oscar gelding
Bought for 31,000 Euros, and a very nice looking fellow indeed. By a very fashionable (and effective) sire, he’s being syndicated into six shares at £5,000 apiece. I’m sorely tempted to get involved, but would need a few Geegeez readers to join me to justify a share I think. I think…!
AJH is really pleased with his acquisition, and is retaining a good percentage of the horse himself, which may also be a pointer to his ability.
Velator – 5yo gelding – OR 125 hurdle
Looked to be going nowhere after six runs over two miles or thereabouts. Revitalised in handicaps and over a trip of three miles plus, he’s now won his last three, and been caned by the handicapper as a consequence. Needs good ground, and may run at Perth soon. Still has a chance of the four-timer despite being raised 39 pounds (!) by the handicapper since that first win.
Vicator – 4yo gelding
As the name suggests, he’s a full brother to Velator and, so far, he’s got all the ability of his bro in two mile soft ground bumpers. Expect better when the ground dries up, the trip goes up, and the handicap mark has been allotted.
Victors Serenade – 7yo gelding – OR 140 chase / 133 hurdle
Almost saving the best for last, Victors Serenade has been in the first three in all of his last seven completed starts. In winning his last two races, he’s been bumped up to a notch of 140, which makes him a decent old stick. Could go for a 0-145 chase in November. He shows his best on heavy ground and, if all goes well, would go next to the Welsh National in late December.
My three to keep an eye on
Classy
Eleven Fifty Nine – she could carry all before her in mares’ novice hurdles this year and, whilst it probably won’t make you rich following her, it might well make you smile.
Could win at a nice price
Victors Serenade – he’s still only seven and relatively lightly raced. As such, he’s got a lot of scope to improve and is already rated 140. Having won off 11-12 last season, weight won’t stop him, and nor will heavy ground. A flat track, heavy going Graded handicap chase looks within his compass, all being well, and I’ll be following him closely.
Could be anything material
Regal Encore – Watch his Southwell win if you can. It’s on RacingPost.com and ATR as well, I think. He destroyed his rivals that day and, whilst the form is hard to quantify, it was an imperious display. He will start in bumpers and, as a JP McManus-owned horse, he’ll hope to end up at one of the Festivals, ideally Cheltenham. It’s possible that this will be the horse which puts Anthony James Honeyball squarely on the map of top trainers to follow.
Two final thoughts, picked up as we wandered around the yard:
“We always feel like we can improve them a little bit” – watch out for horses making their debut for the yard having previously been trained elsewhere.
Indeed, of the nineteen horses making their first start for AJH having previously been trained and raced elsewhere, five have won, for a thirty point level stake profit!
“If we go a long distance, we tend to think they have a good chance” – watch out for AJH horses on the longest traveler lists.
have also been following this stable over the last year ,a very shrewd outfit ,dont often leave empty handed when the moneys down !
Charles Byrnes is keeping everything crossed he can keep Weapon's Amnesty and Solwhit in one piece this season after welcoming his two stable stars back into training following lengthy absences.
Weapon's Amnesty has been sidelined by a serious tendon injury since winning the RSA Chase at the 2010 Cheltenham Festival, but is now back in work and could be ready for a return to the racecourse by November.
He can be backed at 33-1 for next year's Cheltenham Gold Cup.
"He's back in and everything is good at the moment. He's building up nicely. Please god everything stays that way," said Byrnes.
"It was quite a bad one (injury), so we'll just have to see how it goes. I'm very happy with him at this stage, he's doing everything right.
"Hopefully he'll be ready to run again around November time."
Six-time Grade One-winning hurdler Solwhit has not been since chasing home old rival Hurricane Fly in the 2011 Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown, but he too is pleasing Byrnes after returning to work.
This time last year the eight-year-old was being readied for a novice chase campaign, but those plans have been shelved at this stage.
"He's at the same stage as Weapons Amnesty, but his injury wasn't quite as bad. Hopefully he'll be OK," said Byrnes.
"Again he will hopefully be back on the course in November time and everything is good at the moment.
"I think we'll probably stay over hurdles now. He'll have a run in November and then maybe one at Christmas and then we'll see where we are.
"We might have to go over fences in the New Year, but at the moment we are looking at staying over hurdles."
With Weapon's Amnesty and Solwhit both out of action, one of the trainer's stars of last season was talented youngster Trifolium.
The five-year-old was third in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham and just touched off by Alderwood in a Grade One at Punchestown.
"He's been back in for a while and could be ready to run in about a month," said Byrnes.
"He's still only a young horse so we've decided to keep him over hurdles this season.
"Obviously he still has to improve a good bit, but he is young and should improve."
Weapon's Amnesty has been sidelined by a serious tendon injury since winning the RSA Chase at the 2010 Cheltenham Festival, but is now back in work and could be ready for a return to the racecourse by November.
He can be backed at 33-1 for next year's Cheltenham Gold Cup.
"He's back in and everything is good at the moment. He's building up nicely. Please god everything stays that way," said Byrnes.
"It was quite a bad one (injury), so we'll just have to see how it goes. I'm very happy with him at this stage, he's doing everything right.
"Hopefully he'll be ready to run again around November time."
Six-time Grade One-winning hurdler Solwhit has not been since chasing home old rival Hurricane Fly in the 2011 Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown, but he too is pleasing Byrnes after returning to work.
This time last year the eight-year-old was being readied for a novice chase campaign, but those plans have been shelved at this stage.
"He's at the same stage as Weapons Amnesty, but his injury wasn't quite as bad. Hopefully he'll be OK," said Byrnes.
"Again he will hopefully be back on the course in November time and everything is good at the moment.
"I think we'll probably stay over hurdles now. He'll have a run in November and then maybe one at Christmas and then we'll see where we are.
"We might have to go over fences in the New Year, but at the moment we are looking at staying over hurdles."
With Weapon's Amnesty and Solwhit both out of action, one of the trainer's stars of last season was talented youngster Trifolium.
The five-year-old was third in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham and just touched off by Alderwood in a Grade One at Punchestown.
"He's been back in for a while and could be ready to run in about a month," said Byrnes.
"He's still only a young horse so we've decided to keep him over hurdles this season.
"Obviously he still has to improve a good bit, but he is young and should improve."
still with PN, had a slight injury so wont be out till christmas time...
tominator sold to patsy byrne and to be trained by j.j oneil at jacdaws .
RP: ALBERTAS RUN is fit and well after a summer break and could follow a similar path to the last few seasons with his campaign set to start in the Betfred Monet's Garden Old Roan Chase at Aintree on October 27.
Love that horse
Love that horse
Great news.
Reckon he would have won Ryannair again,without his problems.
Already backed him again for next March,yeh hes getting on,but i dont care!!
Be a good price again,probably more justified given his age now,but a good price nonetheless.
Reckon he would have won Ryannair again,without his problems.
Already backed him again for next March,yeh hes getting on,but i dont care!!
Be a good price again,probably more justified given his age now,but a good price nonetheless.
sizing euro blew the cobwebs away at gowran park with comfortable success in the pwc grade 2 champion chase today and despite his advancing years will not be easily brushed aside should he turn up in the tingle creek at sandown imo. a nice workout today, good to see this very classy chaser back .
For all you Sprinter Fans. You maybe interested in this offer.
Champion Chase sponsors Sportingbet offering Evens NR No Bet on Sprinter Sacre up to £100 from 9.00 a.m. on Tuesday for a limited time.
Champion Chase sponsors Sportingbet offering Evens NR No Bet on Sprinter Sacre up to £100 from 9.00 a.m. on Tuesday for a limited time.
RP & Sporting Life: PHILIP HOBBS could start off both Menorah and Captain Chris in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter on November 6.
also p.hobbs exciting fingal bay likely to go for novice chase at chepstow on saturday .....the start of the jumps is nigh .........gladiators....................... are you ready!
Go Native runs in the 6.05 at Navan (Flat race). Tomorrow Wednesday 10th October. First run since 2010 Champion Hurdle. Many good NH horses have won the race.
http://www.irishracing.com/cards/Navan_Wed_10th_Oct_2012_6_05.html
http://www.irishracing.com/cards/Navan_Wed_10th_Oct_2012_6_05.html
RP: Alan King on Medermit - The trainer said: "We definitely want to go the three-mile route with him this season and I would say, all things being equal after Aintree, we will step him up in trip. We would be looking at races like the Betfair Chase and the King George."
Haldon Gold Cup winner Medermit looks set to return to action in the Grade 2 Monet's Garden Old Roan Chase at Aintree on October 27, where he is likely to face last year's hero and three-time Cheltenham Festival winner Albertas Run.
Haldon Gold Cup winner Medermit looks set to return to action in the Grade 2 Monet's Garden Old Roan Chase at Aintree on October 27, where he is likely to face last year's hero and three-time Cheltenham Festival winner Albertas Run.
Sporting Life: David Pipe has yet to make a final decision on where stable star Grands Crus will start off his season.
The talented grey, who carries the colours of Roger Stanley and Yvonne Reynolds, is ante-post favourite for the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham next month.
Pipe said: "He's in good order and I'm pleased with where he is at the moment.
"I'm not sure yet where he's going to start off. I'll have a chat with the owners very shortly and we'll go from there.
"There are a few options and the races he can run in are fairly obvious, including the Paddy Power and the Betfair Chase at Haydock.
"I need to discuss things with the owners before making a decision."
The talented grey, who carries the colours of Roger Stanley and Yvonne Reynolds, is ante-post favourite for the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham next month.
Pipe said: "He's in good order and I'm pleased with where he is at the moment.
"I'm not sure yet where he's going to start off. I'll have a chat with the owners very shortly and we'll go from there.
"There are a few options and the races he can run in are fairly obvious, including the Paddy Power and the Betfair Chase at Haydock.
"I need to discuss things with the owners before making a decision."
Long Run has the John Smith's Grand National as a possible back-up plan if he is unable to contest the Gold Cup next March.
The Nicky Henderson-trained seven-year-old is due to reappear in the Betfair Chase at Haydock next month, after which all roads will again lead to the Cheltenham Festival.
Long Run won the Gold Cup two seasons ago but could only finish third to Synchronised in March.
Should he suffer a setback, however, connections could instead point Long Run towards the National next April.
Owner Robert-Waley Cohen told the Daily Express: "The plan is to run in the Betfair Chase at the end of November followed by the King George and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
"The Grand National is an option if he does not make the Gold Cup.
"He definitely will not be running in both races.
"I believe horses should not run again if they have run in the Gold Cup.
"Regardless of where you finish, they have a very hard race."
The Nicky Henderson-trained seven-year-old is due to reappear in the Betfair Chase at Haydock next month, after which all roads will again lead to the Cheltenham Festival.
Long Run won the Gold Cup two seasons ago but could only finish third to Synchronised in March.
Should he suffer a setback, however, connections could instead point Long Run towards the National next April.
Owner Robert-Waley Cohen told the Daily Express: "The plan is to run in the Betfair Chase at the end of November followed by the King George and the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
"The Grand National is an option if he does not make the Gold Cup.
"He definitely will not be running in both races.
"I believe horses should not run again if they have run in the Gold Cup.
"Regardless of where you finish, they have a very hard race."
Wow. That would make the National handicap interesting.
That seems like a very odd thing to say. Almost like they're expecting the horse to have a problem...
That seems like a very odd thing to say. Almost like they're expecting the horse to have a problem...
I agree Stront. Wouldn't be the best jumper for it either. Def bad idea IMO.
I agree Bluebird, it would make me very cautious were I an AP backer. Of course it's also possible he gave a long interview and they've taken one quote out of context. RWC is usually very bullish about the horse (including only a few weeks ago).
Attaglance, winner of the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle, has been declared to make his chasing debut at Carlisle tomorrow
i honestly think 4 and a half miles is right up his street,Might respect the national fences more than regulation fences were he to go there.
interesting season ahead for Long Run.
interesting season ahead for Long Run.
Monksland, one of Ireland's leading novice hurdlers last season, is being prepared for his chasing debut by trainer Noel Meade.
Winner of a Grade Two at Naas, in which he had subsequent Grade One winner Dedigout back in third, he ran a cracker at the Cheltenham Festival.
The five-year-old Beneficial gelding finished third behind Simonsig in the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle.
"The plan is to go jumping fences with him," said Meade.
"He'll probably be out in about three weeks time, I would imagine.
"All is well at the moment, he has done everything we've wanted to do with him.
"He's run in a point-to-point and we schooled him before we let him off as well.
"We haven't actually schooled him since the back-end as we're wanting to do it on grass and, unbelievably, it was looking a bit quick on our schooling ground.
"But he's in good shape and about two or three weeks away from a run.
"He'll probably start off in a two-and-a-half-mile beginners' chase in either Navan or Punchestown, I'd have thought."
Winner of a Grade Two at Naas, in which he had subsequent Grade One winner Dedigout back in third, he ran a cracker at the Cheltenham Festival.
The five-year-old Beneficial gelding finished third behind Simonsig in the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle.
"The plan is to go jumping fences with him," said Meade.
"He'll probably be out in about three weeks time, I would imagine.
"All is well at the moment, he has done everything we've wanted to do with him.
"He's run in a point-to-point and we schooled him before we let him off as well.
"We haven't actually schooled him since the back-end as we're wanting to do it on grass and, unbelievably, it was looking a bit quick on our schooling ground.
"But he's in good shape and about two or three weeks away from a run.
"He'll probably start off in a two-and-a-half-mile beginners' chase in either Navan or Punchestown, I'd have thought."
Re Long Run again - it may no longer be the case, but there was a time when Sam Waley Cohen had won more races over the National fences than any other jockey currently riding...
I don't believe that Long Run has ever actually fallen has he? I don't see why the aintree fences would pose a problem. Had a nibble at 240 earlier, if he does go it can be easily layed off.
cant remember him falling and jumped just about the best he has over here when 3rd in the gold cup !
Agree, it is a strange thing to say...if he suffers a setback?, if he doesn't make the gold cup?, for starters if he'd suffered a setback how the hell would they know if he'd be able to make the national anyhow.....sounds like they mean if he disappoints again they'll give up on the gold cup...and this comes after we had this last month
'Stronger' Run back on Gold trail
Last Updated: September 6 2012, 13:09 BST
Robert Waley-Cohen believes Long Run has "become a man" as the star chaser sets out on a campaign the owner hopes will end with his charge regaining his Cheltenham Gold Cup crown.
Cheltenham Gold Cup 2013 Antepost: Long Run 8/1
Long Run: Has 'become a man'
Related ContentLive horse racing resultsRacecards and formLatest non-runnersLatest video replays
The Nicky Henderson-trained seven-year-old had looked set to dominate the staying division after winning the 2011 Gold Cup, but last season did not go to plan.
Long Run was beaten by Kauto Star in both the Betfair Chase at Haydock and the King George, and was only a creditable third when defending his Cheltenham title in March.
"He's been back with Nicky a couple of weeks and he went back really looking the part," said Waley-Cohen.
"He was a boy, but now he's become a man.
"He's matured and he's grown stronger and he's in really good order, so our hopes and dreams are that he'll come back to form of early 2011."
Long Run looks set to follow the same route to the Gold Cup as last season.
"The Betfair Chase at Haydock is the obvious, and most likely, starting point," said Waley-Cohen.
"After that, it will probably be Kempton, Newbury and Cheltenham.
"That will probably be his season and if we win all four, we won't be complaining.
"It's going to be interesting to see what the competition is going to be like this season. Last year's novices are probably going to be his main competition."
'Stronger' Run back on Gold trail
Last Updated: September 6 2012, 13:09 BST
Robert Waley-Cohen believes Long Run has "become a man" as the star chaser sets out on a campaign the owner hopes will end with his charge regaining his Cheltenham Gold Cup crown.
Cheltenham Gold Cup 2013 Antepost: Long Run 8/1
Long Run: Has 'become a man'
Related ContentLive horse racing resultsRacecards and formLatest non-runnersLatest video replays
The Nicky Henderson-trained seven-year-old had looked set to dominate the staying division after winning the 2011 Gold Cup, but last season did not go to plan.
Long Run was beaten by Kauto Star in both the Betfair Chase at Haydock and the King George, and was only a creditable third when defending his Cheltenham title in March.
"He's been back with Nicky a couple of weeks and he went back really looking the part," said Waley-Cohen.
"He was a boy, but now he's become a man.
"He's matured and he's grown stronger and he's in really good order, so our hopes and dreams are that he'll come back to form of early 2011."
Long Run looks set to follow the same route to the Gold Cup as last season.
"The Betfair Chase at Haydock is the obvious, and most likely, starting point," said Waley-Cohen.
"After that, it will probably be Kempton, Newbury and Cheltenham.
"That will probably be his season and if we win all four, we won't be complaining.
"It's going to be interesting to see what the competition is going to be like this season. Last year's novices are probably going to be his main competition."
No, Long Run has never fallen despite his sometimes dodgy jumping. He seemed to be jumping better towards the end of last season (Denman Chase, Gold Cup) - just running slower 
If he'd run in the National this year there would only have been 4 or 5 other horses in the handicap and thos carrying not much over 10 stone. if he does go he could set it up nicely for something rated in the mid-160s (a Tidal Bay/Weird Al type).
If he'd run in the National this year there would only have been 4 or 5 other horses in the handicap and thos carrying not much over 10 stone. if he does go he could set it up nicely for something rated in the mid-160s (a Tidal Bay/Weird Al type).
And if he does go for the national we can assume that he has in some way disappointed this season or been injured, so, how would they fancy him taking his chance in it under those circumstances... strange.
Yes, all very odd. The more I think about it, the more I think it might be out of context. I wonder if RWC was asked something like "would you run a Gold Cup winner in the National" (perhaps with referenced to Synchronised)?
If not, maybe your 17:39 post is right Duffy - by "setback" they might mean that is what will happen if the horse can no longer cut it in G1 3 m chases.
If not, maybe your 17:39 post is right Duffy - by "setback" they might mean that is what will happen if the horse can no longer cut it in G1 3 m chases.
The National is only 3 weeks after the Gold Cup. Therefore a true setback would probably rule both races out. Re the weights, I believe the handicapper would give him a chance and compress the handicap. They try and encourage the better horses by doing this.
Sure, but he's (currently) rated 182 - it would seem unreasonable to put him in off an effective mark of, say, less than about 7 lbs lower than his mark when the weights are framed. Of course if he does look like a runner it may enocurage entries from a lot more 160+ horses than is usually the case (where they can typically expect a lot of weight).
The first part of your post is why it's such an odd comment...
The first part of your post is why it's such an odd comment...
He is rated 182, but a couple of defeats and he could be 177/8. Handicapper gives him a chance off 170 and frames the weights at 12st means he can get horses in from 142. He'd then knock other high rated horses down 3 to 4 pounds and so on. Just a thought.
I think we are all so desperate for "jumps" info we are reading way too much in to a quite innocent and simple statement. Long Run is Gold Cup bound. Only an injury will stop that. He won it as a 5 year old. His 6 year old season was poor in comparison and NH/RWC will have learned from it and he will run one less race pre Cheltenham and romp it...........remember where you heard it first.
Could do of course, though I doubt top weight will ever be above 11st 10 again (for PR reasons as much as anything else). Is his 182 rating from the King George (so likely to be reassessed before the National weights) or from the Denman (in which case possibly not)?
Apologies. He won it as a 6 year old.........extended long lunch !
Well Stront, if his backup plan has any truth in it, then they have to enter him as it is an early closer. Will make national weights very interesting to see what they do whether he runs or not.
Sure will. Can anyone remember roughly when the National weights come out?
Ah, OK, thanks - so he would be very likley to be reassessed before then whatever. Will certainly be a fascinating twist to the National if he is an entry let alone a runner.
alan kings medermet will miss in tended engagement in aintrees roan chase .
Rubi Light expected to contest races between 2m and 3m this season according to his trainer kicking off in the John Durkan Memorial Chase.
alan kings walkon is entered in and likely to run in the paddy power gold cup at cheltenham and has been given a quote of 14/1 by the sponsers .
also the giant bolster is due to take in the betfair chase at haydock en route to the gold cup .
also the giant bolster is due to take in the betfair chase at haydock en route to the gold cup .
peter caseys flemenstar is likely to run in the fortria chase over 2m at navan on november 11 .
Midnight Chase expected to start in the Charlie Hall with the Argento as his main target for the season. He's only expected to run 3 or 4 times this season and is not sure to run at the Festival.
Rock on Ruby is expected to return in late November or early December.
Rock on Ruby is expected to return in late November or early December.
Punchestown's John Durkan Memorial Chase on December 9 is a potential starting point for ante-post Cheltenham Gold Cup favourite Sir Des Champs.
The six-year-old is unbeaten since joining Mullins from France and has won at the last two Cheltenham Festivals.
Sir Des Champs followed up his Cheltenham success in a Grade One at Punchestown, winning by 36 lengths, and is just about the most exciting prospect in the game.
"He's done nothing wrong, he's won round Cheltenham for the past two years and he's getting stronger," said Mullins.
"We're hoping he's our big hope for the year. We've got no firm plan, but the John Durkan might be a nice race to start him off in."
The six-year-old is unbeaten since joining Mullins from France and has won at the last two Cheltenham Festivals.
Sir Des Champs followed up his Cheltenham success in a Grade One at Punchestown, winning by 36 lengths, and is just about the most exciting prospect in the game.
"He's done nothing wrong, he's won round Cheltenham for the past two years and he's getting stronger," said Mullins.
"We're hoping he's our big hope for the year. We've got no firm plan, but the John Durkan might be a nice race to start him off in."
Last Instalment is still on target to return to action some time in the new year.
Trainer Philip Fenton has been delighted with his recuperation over the summer months from the tendon injury which prevented him running at the Cheltenham Festival.
Before injury struck, Last Instalment had stated his case for being the best staying novice chaser in Ireland, with victories in two Grade Ones suggesting the sky was the limit.
"He's in good shape but I wouldn't have thought he'd be running until January time," said Fenton.
"He came back to me in mid-September and he's done lots of road work.
"Crucially his tendons seem fine at the moment, that's the main thing.
"We haven't yet got as far as picking out a race for him, I expect we'll have a sit down in the next six to eight weeks and pick out a target."
Trainer Philip Fenton has been delighted with his recuperation over the summer months from the tendon injury which prevented him running at the Cheltenham Festival.
Before injury struck, Last Instalment had stated his case for being the best staying novice chaser in Ireland, with victories in two Grade Ones suggesting the sky was the limit.
"He's in good shape but I wouldn't have thought he'd be running until January time," said Fenton.
"He came back to me in mid-September and he's done lots of road work.
"Crucially his tendons seem fine at the moment, that's the main thing.
"We haven't yet got as far as picking out a race for him, I expect we'll have a sit down in the next six to eight weeks and pick out a target."
Yes if they get him back sound he'll be a fresh horse come March.
wonderfull charm justified some of the hype and put in a decent effort today ,one to look forward to !
What do we think his target will be though Foyles. There isn't an obvious race at the Festival.
can see this one bypassing the festival, like you say no obvious target. He'll be running in hcps now so will no doubt climb up the ratings, and they will stick him away for next season and chasing. Liked the way he knuckled down at the end today.
no idea stront ,but liked the way he moved up to the 2nd after looking as if he might struggle at one point! anyway that has really wheted the appetite for the jumping season .
Am I being thick?
I didn't think Wonderful Charm would be eligible for the Neptune as it loses novice status next month, but it's fav with Stan and James and also in the BF market.
Can someone please clear this up
Thanks
I didn't think Wonderful Charm would be eligible for the Neptune as it loses novice status next month, but it's fav with Stan and James and also in the BF market.
Can someone please clear this up
Thanks
Gravy, I believe you are right. He won over hurdles at autueil in March. As that was between Macrh 1st and april 29th, he remains a novice until October 31st.
an interesting begginers chase at naas today featuring decent hurdlers from last season including mount benlben, dylan ross and faraway so close , and hidden cyclone and foindubh also run in the graded chase on the card !
go native hacks up in 14f galway flat race, good to see the ol fella back !
Poor old Pady. What are they doing running him over 14 f on the flat against good hurdlers at his age...
Racing fans were hoping to see Sizing Europe feature in the JNwine.com Champion Chase this weekend, although they might have to wait a little longer to see the ten-year-old in action.
The 2011 Champion Chase winner claimed a facile victory at Gowran Park in early October and is vying for favouritism ahead of Saturday’s race although trainer Henry de Bromhead insists that soft ground will see the horse withdrawn from the race.
He said: "We've said we wouldn't run him unless the ground was pretty good. I've been talking to Mike Todd, the manager there (Down Royal), and he says it's good to soft.
"Unfortunately there's rain forecast on Wednesday so he wants to wait until then before he says any more.
"You'd have to feel the ground played a part in his defeat last year. It was soft to heavy.
"I don't want him to go through something like that again - we'd love to see him over three miles on good ground.
"In November we might look at the Fortria Chase or the Clonmel Oil Chase and for his Christmas run the three options we are looking at are obviously the King George (at Kempton), the two-mile chase in Leopardstown and the Lexus there.
"We would discount anything," De Bromhead told At The Races.
Sizing Europe is bidding for his first win in this race after losing to Kauto Star in 2010 and Quito De La Roque twelve months later, with the latter race taking place on tacky ground.
The 2011 Champion Chase winner claimed a facile victory at Gowran Park in early October and is vying for favouritism ahead of Saturday’s race although trainer Henry de Bromhead insists that soft ground will see the horse withdrawn from the race.
He said: "We've said we wouldn't run him unless the ground was pretty good. I've been talking to Mike Todd, the manager there (Down Royal), and he says it's good to soft.
"Unfortunately there's rain forecast on Wednesday so he wants to wait until then before he says any more.
"You'd have to feel the ground played a part in his defeat last year. It was soft to heavy.
"I don't want him to go through something like that again - we'd love to see him over three miles on good ground.
"In November we might look at the Fortria Chase or the Clonmel Oil Chase and for his Christmas run the three options we are looking at are obviously the King George (at Kempton), the two-mile chase in Leopardstown and the Lexus there.
"We would discount anything," De Bromhead told At The Races.
Sizing Europe is bidding for his first win in this race after losing to Kauto Star in 2010 and Quito De La Roque twelve months later, with the latter race taking place on tacky ground.
three miles on good ground
whens that likely then Henry?
gonna wait for Aintree next spring??
whens that likely then Henry?
gonna wait for Aintree next spring??
very good debut from oscars well jumped and travelled well .
Imperial Commander Out til after Xmas - This morning, however, Twiston-Davies reported that all plans had been put on hold until the New Year after scans revealed a fracture that will keep him off the gallops until at least Christmas.
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