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Cheltenham Festival
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Well 2025 was a strange festival in many regards with nearly all the big race favorites fluffing their lines in one way or another.
The handicaps were much more straightforward with some very well backed winners.
The ground was much the quickest it has been all season and it certainly played a part on the last two days on the New Course.
And as always course form and especially previous Festival form was incredibly significant.
Novice Hurdlers
The right horses contested the finishes in all three novice races which suggests the form should be pretty reliable.
Kopek Des Bordes is a bit of a monster and it will be interesting to see where they go with him. While he is understandably favorite for the Arkle I thought William Munny at 16/1 was for once a fair ante post price.
The New Lion, The Yellow Clay and Final Demand served up a cracker though I can't help feeling that Kawaboomga might have beaten the lot of em given how well his form tied in with the Supreme front 2.
Lots of talk that the The New Lion will be aimed at the Champion Hurdle, while Final Demand looks an obvious Brown Advisory type.
In the Albert Bartlett Jasmin De Vaux enjoyed the longer trip to supplement his Bumper win. He is a very small specimen so not sure how he'll cope if they go chasing - maybe the Stayers Hurdle will be his aim.
Although a mare The Big Westerner dwarfed him and as a point winner she could be a very decent novice chaser next year. 25/1 for the Brown Advisory in places seems fair.
Talking of impressive looking mares the Mares Novice hurdle was won by Air Of Entitlement who is a lovely specimen and again as a 3m point winner could be a cracking novice chaser next year - or they may stick to hurdles and aim at the Mares (assuming it is still run as a Grader 1 next year after all the hoo-ha about Lossiemouth).
The Triumph Hurdle threw up a great finish with the first four in the betting battling it out at the last only for 100/1 shot Poniros to storm between them and get up. He had gone off favorite for the Cambridgeshire on his last start so clearly had some class but who knows how he'll go on from this.
Lulamba ran a cracker and looks like chasing will be his aim next year (12/1 for the Arkle).
Lady Vega Allen won't get much coverage but she tanked her way to the front early on yet was still in their battling all the way to the line - similar sort of run to Kargese last year so I'll look out for her in the County next year!!
The Bumper had looked a desperately weak renewal all winter and was won by the mare Bambino Fever, and it seemed clear from the betting that she was the pick of the Mullins horses.
She will presumably be aimed at the Mares Novice next year but would be interesting if they took on the boys.
Plenty of nice types in behind. I backed the third Shuttle Diplomacy at huge odds and he ran really well on his first run for nearly a year so will definitely be in my tracker.
Novice Chasers
The Arkle was a mental race with a blanket covering the front 4 - Jango Baie flying home from a hopeless position to get up. He clearly needs further and the Ryanair will be his aim.
Majborough can't jump so God knows where they go with him.
The Brown Advisory was won by Lecky Watson who was the best jumper. Ballyburn again looked unhappy over fences so where he might show up next year is anyones guess. I did suggest in last years opening post that he may be another Impaire Et Passe - looking a world beater as a novice hurdler but then not going on.
Hurdlers
The Champion Hurdle was a bonkers race. Constitution Hill fell at halfway so no idea if he was going to hack up or fall in a heap - the fact he fell suggests to me wasn't back to his best and not sure I could be backing him to come back next year. Hopefully Punchestown will shed some light on his well being.
Brighterdays ahead ran a shocker and goes chasing next season. Stateman had the race at his mercy but did an Annie Power at the last leaving the admirable Golden Ace to follow up her Mares Novice win.
Kopek Des Bordes and The New Lion may throw their hats into the ring next year, and there is always the chance Sir Gino and / or Lullamba end up here.
I suggested Kargese should have run in this and still think she could be a player. She bolted up in the County
(as did Statesman of course) and the Old Course would suit her better than the New Course. Can't see here stepping up in trip so it will be interesting where they aim her now - maybe something at Royal Ascot or an Ebor?
The Stayers Hurdle was a Robcour benefit with the wonderful Bob Olinger getting a peach of a ride by Rachel to beat Teahupoo. The going definitely played a part here as on soft/heavy I'd fancy the latter.
Hopefully Elliot might run Teahupoo a bit more next year - at least once between Fairyhouse and Cheltenham.
Lossiemouth retained her Mares Hurdle crown in effortless fashion - again all the talk is that she will go for the Champion next season but assuming they leave the Mares as it is why not just win it again like Facile Vega did.
Chasers
There was something inevitable about Marine Nationale winning the Champion Chase. As I kept saying in last years thread I just didn't like Jonbon and while they tried to use the start as an excuse he surely has enough experience to get over that slight impediment. He can look great when he gets everything his own way but you can't expect a freebie in a Championship race. Marine Nationale was brought to a peak beautifully by Barry O'Connell and given the Arkle looked so bad he surely has a great chance of retaining his crown next year. Sir Gino is favorite but given he was meant to be close to death a month ago you'd want to see him back before parting with any hard earned.
Fact To File was the most impressive winner of the week in the Ryanair and is clearly much happier at that sort of pace - all the talk is that it will be the Gold Cup next year but given JP has Inothewayurthinkin I wouldn't be surprised if they come back for the Ryanair. They will surely have to try him at 3m again either in the King George or Lexus and if he fails again then it's back to the Ryanair.
The Gold Cup was a bit disappointing with Galopin Des Champs never looking happy (Ground?) - similar to his run in the John Durkan a couple of years ago. Not to take anything away from the winner who as a 7 year old should be even better next year.
Whether they go for the Grand National now is going to be fascinating. With the going being pretty decent he didn't look to have a massively hard race and they will never get a better chance from a handicapping perspective.
The handicaps were much more straightforward with some very well backed winners.
The ground was much the quickest it has been all season and it certainly played a part on the last two days on the New Course.
And as always course form and especially previous Festival form was incredibly significant.
Novice Hurdlers
The right horses contested the finishes in all three novice races which suggests the form should be pretty reliable.
Kopek Des Bordes is a bit of a monster and it will be interesting to see where they go with him. While he is understandably favorite for the Arkle I thought William Munny at 16/1 was for once a fair ante post price.
The New Lion, The Yellow Clay and Final Demand served up a cracker though I can't help feeling that Kawaboomga might have beaten the lot of em given how well his form tied in with the Supreme front 2.
Lots of talk that the The New Lion will be aimed at the Champion Hurdle, while Final Demand looks an obvious Brown Advisory type.
In the Albert Bartlett Jasmin De Vaux enjoyed the longer trip to supplement his Bumper win. He is a very small specimen so not sure how he'll cope if they go chasing - maybe the Stayers Hurdle will be his aim.
Although a mare The Big Westerner dwarfed him and as a point winner she could be a very decent novice chaser next year. 25/1 for the Brown Advisory in places seems fair.
Talking of impressive looking mares the Mares Novice hurdle was won by Air Of Entitlement who is a lovely specimen and again as a 3m point winner could be a cracking novice chaser next year - or they may stick to hurdles and aim at the Mares (assuming it is still run as a Grader 1 next year after all the hoo-ha about Lossiemouth).
The Triumph Hurdle threw up a great finish with the first four in the betting battling it out at the last only for 100/1 shot Poniros to storm between them and get up. He had gone off favorite for the Cambridgeshire on his last start so clearly had some class but who knows how he'll go on from this.
Lulamba ran a cracker and looks like chasing will be his aim next year (12/1 for the Arkle).
Lady Vega Allen won't get much coverage but she tanked her way to the front early on yet was still in their battling all the way to the line - similar sort of run to Kargese last year so I'll look out for her in the County next year!!
The Bumper had looked a desperately weak renewal all winter and was won by the mare Bambino Fever, and it seemed clear from the betting that she was the pick of the Mullins horses.
She will presumably be aimed at the Mares Novice next year but would be interesting if they took on the boys.
Plenty of nice types in behind. I backed the third Shuttle Diplomacy at huge odds and he ran really well on his first run for nearly a year so will definitely be in my tracker.
Novice Chasers
The Arkle was a mental race with a blanket covering the front 4 - Jango Baie flying home from a hopeless position to get up. He clearly needs further and the Ryanair will be his aim.
Majborough can't jump so God knows where they go with him.
The Brown Advisory was won by Lecky Watson who was the best jumper. Ballyburn again looked unhappy over fences so where he might show up next year is anyones guess. I did suggest in last years opening post that he may be another Impaire Et Passe - looking a world beater as a novice hurdler but then not going on.
Hurdlers
The Champion Hurdle was a bonkers race. Constitution Hill fell at halfway so no idea if he was going to hack up or fall in a heap - the fact he fell suggests to me wasn't back to his best and not sure I could be backing him to come back next year. Hopefully Punchestown will shed some light on his well being.
Brighterdays ahead ran a shocker and goes chasing next season. Stateman had the race at his mercy but did an Annie Power at the last leaving the admirable Golden Ace to follow up her Mares Novice win.
Kopek Des Bordes and The New Lion may throw their hats into the ring next year, and there is always the chance Sir Gino and / or Lullamba end up here.
I suggested Kargese should have run in this and still think she could be a player. She bolted up in the County
(as did Statesman of course) and the Old Course would suit her better than the New Course. Can't see here stepping up in trip so it will be interesting where they aim her now - maybe something at Royal Ascot or an Ebor?The Stayers Hurdle was a Robcour benefit with the wonderful Bob Olinger getting a peach of a ride by Rachel to beat Teahupoo. The going definitely played a part here as on soft/heavy I'd fancy the latter.
Hopefully Elliot might run Teahupoo a bit more next year - at least once between Fairyhouse and Cheltenham.
Lossiemouth retained her Mares Hurdle crown in effortless fashion - again all the talk is that she will go for the Champion next season but assuming they leave the Mares as it is why not just win it again like Facile Vega did.
Chasers
There was something inevitable about Marine Nationale winning the Champion Chase. As I kept saying in last years thread I just didn't like Jonbon and while they tried to use the start as an excuse he surely has enough experience to get over that slight impediment. He can look great when he gets everything his own way but you can't expect a freebie in a Championship race. Marine Nationale was brought to a peak beautifully by Barry O'Connell and given the Arkle looked so bad he surely has a great chance of retaining his crown next year. Sir Gino is favorite but given he was meant to be close to death a month ago you'd want to see him back before parting with any hard earned.
Fact To File was the most impressive winner of the week in the Ryanair and is clearly much happier at that sort of pace - all the talk is that it will be the Gold Cup next year but given JP has Inothewayurthinkin I wouldn't be surprised if they come back for the Ryanair. They will surely have to try him at 3m again either in the King George or Lexus and if he fails again then it's back to the Ryanair.
The Gold Cup was a bit disappointing with Galopin Des Champs never looking happy (Ground?) - similar to his run in the John Durkan a couple of years ago. Not to take anything away from the winner who as a 7 year old should be even better next year.
Whether they go for the Grand National now is going to be fascinating. With the going being pretty decent he didn't look to have a massively hard race and they will never get a better chance from a handicapping perspective.
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Thx Uncle good read…strange times isn’t it…only 3 weeks to Gn but as u say history beckons….galloping 9/1 for next year seems fair to do a Kauto star
Put a few in the tracker,,,derryhassen paddy looks a beast..but what race next year no idea
An interesting divergence in the price for Kopek Des Bordes for the Champion Hurdle - as low as 7/2 and a high of 10/1.
Obviously could go novice chasing but would be the rightful antepost favourite imo if they decide he is staying over the smaller obstacles.
With the Festival bumper being such a poor looking renewal I’ve been looking for some value in the Supreme market and have had a speculative bet on Kaiser Ball at 40/1. Very impressive on debut at Fairyhouse and possibly due to run in a winners bumper back there in April.
Obviously could go novice chasing but would be the rightful antepost favourite imo if they decide he is staying over the smaller obstacles.
With the Festival bumper being such a poor looking renewal I’ve been looking for some value in the Supreme market and have had a speculative bet on Kaiser Ball at 40/1. Very impressive on debut at Fairyhouse and possibly due to run in a winners bumper back there in April.
I will be following Windbeneathmywings (hopefully ) , Heads Up boosted its formline .
Jade De Grugy for the Mares Chase at 14/1.
The plan was to go chasing this year until a set back at the beginning of the season.
A talented mare who i think should improve for a fence.
The plan was to go chasing this year until a set back at the beginning of the season.
A talented mare who i think should improve for a fence.
Well Aintree was another Mullins benefit but not sure there was anything that made me think we saw a future Cheltenham Festival winner.
On Thursday Gaelic Warrior sprung back to life and clearly has all the talent but who knows what form he’ll be in next year let alone which race he would be running in.
Lossiemouth won well over her best trip but Constitution Hill looks ready for retirement before he kills himself.
Jonbon landed the odds on Friday but was not deeply impressive and hard to see him winning a QM.
Saturday was pretty low key but if I had to put one horse in my notebook for next season it would be Honesty Policy who could be a very nice 3m chase prospect.
On Thursday Gaelic Warrior sprung back to life and clearly has all the talent but who knows what form he’ll be in next year let alone which race he would be running in.
Lossiemouth won well over her best trip but Constitution Hill looks ready for retirement before he kills himself.
Jonbon landed the odds on Friday but was not deeply impressive and hard to see him winning a QM.
Saturday was pretty low key but if I had to put one horse in my notebook for next season it would be Honesty Policy who could be a very nice 3m chase prospect.
If I had to pick one horse to follow up next year it would be Marine Nationale. He flew up that hill as he had done when winning the Supreme and clearly relishes a stiff finish. Fact to File will also be very hard to beat if he stays Ryanair but they will be tempted to go Gold Cup.
Agree with Bentring just as likely to come down to C.Chase with F .2 File.Think hes a possible for 2 miler @ Punchestown which will give a good indication.
I should have added that,I thought I heard he might get an entry just like Allaho did
An enjoyable end to the GB jumps season at a sunny Sandown on Saturday.
Gaelic Warrior won nicely and will surely be campaigned at 3m now with maybe a Betfair Chase and/or King George being targeted given how he seems to underperform at Leopardstown?
IL Etait Temps was superb in thrashing Jonbon and the 10/1 for the Champions Chase might be a decent back to lay given the front two, Sir Gino and Fact To File, are far from certain to show up. Having said that he hasn’t been quite at his best on two previous Cheltenham visits and given he loves Leopardstown it’s easy to see him winning the big races at the Christmas and Dublin Festival but then Marine Nationals reversing the form at Cheltenham where he excels.
Was fitting that Sean Bowen finished off his Championship winning season by winning the old Whitbread under his usual power packed finish.
And while not Cheltenham related I did think High Class Hero ran well for such an inexperienced horse and he’s on my radar for the Grand National (50/1 available).
Punchestown starts on Tuesday - can anybody stop Mullins?
Gaelic Warrior won nicely and will surely be campaigned at 3m now with maybe a Betfair Chase and/or King George being targeted given how he seems to underperform at Leopardstown?
IL Etait Temps was superb in thrashing Jonbon and the 10/1 for the Champions Chase might be a decent back to lay given the front two, Sir Gino and Fact To File, are far from certain to show up. Having said that he hasn’t been quite at his best on two previous Cheltenham visits and given he loves Leopardstown it’s easy to see him winning the big races at the Christmas and Dublin Festival but then Marine Nationals reversing the form at Cheltenham where he excels.
Was fitting that Sean Bowen finished off his Championship winning season by winning the old Whitbread under his usual power packed finish.
And while not Cheltenham related I did think High Class Hero ran well for such an inexperienced horse and he’s on my radar for the Grand National (50/1 available).
Punchestown starts on Tuesday - can anybody stop Mullins?
Good initial post uncle but as always events surprise us. Majborough looked back to his best at Punchestown while Lecky Watson (which I backed on its jumping) was an early faller allowing Mullins to win with yet another outsider at Punchestown. Marine Nationale proved us both right and I will not oppose him so long as he is on soft or quicker ground. I would tend to favour Galopin in the Gold Cup next year as they will have learned from his defeat. The 2026 Champion Hurdle should be left alone until a week before the big day!
Well as expected the Punchestown Grade 1’s and 2’s were a near whitewash for Willie Mullins.
The first day saw his only real disappointments. Firstly when Kopek Des Bordes finished tailed off - Mullins suggested he wasn’t fit enough but find that a bit hard to believe. Of course he still had the first three home.
Then Fact To File was beaten out of site when they tried him at 2m - though hard to believe it was just the trip.
Some of my early antepost bets for Cheltenham 2026 got some boosts with Marine Nationale and Final Demand both winning impressively. I’m very surprised that you can still get 6/1 on the former - if he was trained by Mullins or Henderson he’d be 7/4.
Teahupoo won the Stayers Hurdle again and the 6/1 for Cheltenham looks an e/w bet to nothing
Stateman got a deserved, and third consecutive, victory in the Champion Hurdle where Constitution Hill looked a shadow of his former self.
8/1 for Cheltenham seems pretty generous?
The first day saw his only real disappointments. Firstly when Kopek Des Bordes finished tailed off - Mullins suggested he wasn’t fit enough but find that a bit hard to believe. Of course he still had the first three home.
Then Fact To File was beaten out of site when they tried him at 2m - though hard to believe it was just the trip.
Some of my early antepost bets for Cheltenham 2026 got some boosts with Marine Nationale and Final Demand both winning impressively. I’m very surprised that you can still get 6/1 on the former - if he was trained by Mullins or Henderson he’d be 7/4.
Teahupoo won the Stayers Hurdle again and the 6/1 for Cheltenham looks an e/w bet to nothing
Stateman got a deserved, and third consecutive, victory in the Champion Hurdle where Constitution Hill looked a shadow of his former self.
8/1 for Cheltenham seems pretty generous?
Memberships purchased. Festival seats purchased. House confirmed.
Here we go again
Just need few winners to pay for it all. Was looking at Ballyburn in Stayers around 8/1. Can’t see where he goes otherwise?
Here we go again
Just need few winners to pay for it all. Was looking at Ballyburn in Stayers around 8/1. Can’t see where he goes otherwise?
Cheltenham has gone way down in the last few years
The constant tinkering to so much of the programme
Obviously money at the bottom of it
Accomodation too expensive, Drink not value for money, cant get about easy
People coming to Benidorm or the Canary islands to watch it on t v here
Ridiculous !
The constant tinkering to so much of the programme
Obviously money at the bottom of it
Accomodation too expensive, Drink not value for money, cant get about easy
People coming to Benidorm or the Canary islands to watch it on t v here
Ridiculous !
Cheltenham still have plenty to improve. However, all the bars that were 1980’s at best have been refurbished over last 2 years. The drink costs are same as Sandown, Ascot, York and Goodwood. All are too expensive but you only hear about Cheltenham.
Accommodation is too expensive but if you want 70k people to spend a week in a certain place the private sector will take advantage.
Cheltenham is an expensive week. Our group of 12 rent a house which saves money obviously compared with Hotels. With membership , Insurance bar, reserved seats and travel there is little change out of £1k. It’s money that can be used for alternative locations like Tenerife if you prefer.
Royal Ascot is far more expensive than Cheltenham. Guest tickets into certain enclosures will be over £150-200 next year.
If you want to go and enjoy the racing and the craic then go…if not enjoy elsewhere but why make a big deal of it.
I want to go to Masters but would be £5-6k. I should post you can watch in Wetherspoons for 3 pints for £5. Why go Augusta ?
Accommodation is too expensive but if you want 70k people to spend a week in a certain place the private sector will take advantage.
Cheltenham is an expensive week. Our group of 12 rent a house which saves money obviously compared with Hotels. With membership , Insurance bar, reserved seats and travel there is little change out of £1k. It’s money that can be used for alternative locations like Tenerife if you prefer.
Royal Ascot is far more expensive than Cheltenham. Guest tickets into certain enclosures will be over £150-200 next year.
If you want to go and enjoy the racing and the craic then go…if not enjoy elsewhere but why make a big deal of it.
I want to go to Masters but would be £5-6k. I should post you can watch in Wetherspoons for 3 pints for £5. Why go Augusta ?
Agreed Hibore , we stopped after the first of the 4 day Festivals . It was The Dormy House for us (previously Whatley Manor ) and reason was costs hitting four figures .
I will be there again next year but only two days,Probably I will get an owners and trainers entry badge because I know people.
Year after year I have witnessed people who have absolutely no interest in the horses slowly take over the bars and the paddocks at Cheltenham
i have seen riot police racing from vans into the marquee at the back of the Best Mate stand where a fight broke out
I know where to find certain people , usually retired horsemen or with mobility problems in the same bar year after year
They rarely make the move outside as well
Go to any race meeting in one of the the small tracks of the West of Ireland ...different class altogether , its about the horses not the event ....
apart of course Students Day or Ladies Day
Its a pity Horse Racing , as a Sport, has to scrape the bottom of the barrel.
Year after year I have witnessed people who have absolutely no interest in the horses slowly take over the bars and the paddocks at Cheltenham
i have seen riot police racing from vans into the marquee at the back of the Best Mate stand where a fight broke out
I know where to find certain people , usually retired horsemen or with mobility problems in the same bar year after year
They rarely make the move outside as well
Go to any race meeting in one of the the small tracks of the West of Ireland ...different class altogether , its about the horses not the event ....
apart of course Students Day or Ladies Day
Its a pity Horse Racing , as a Sport, has to scrape the bottom of the barrel.
The Cheltenham Festival, a cornerstone of the UK’s horse racing calendar, has seen a marked decrease in attendance over the past few years. While the festival has historically attracted large crowds, including 280,627 attendees in 2022, recent figures show a significant decline, with 2025 attendance falling to 218,839.
Basically poor running of a business , short term greed over strategic longevity .
The 66,000 attendance limit is far too high and reflects an attempt to provide equilibrium of supply and demand and maximisation of profits. Once again the weekenders surface promoting a gold cup Saturday suggesting attendances would be boosted by more non-locals and more youngsters on a weekend. Really ?
The Guinness is down in price, tickets are cheaper for early birds, measures that point to concerns about the festival’s atmosphere and overall value. As fewer visitors attend the event, local business returns have also decreased in revenue, a drop in foot traffic and sales, so maintaining a strong turnout is crucial to the locals. Every year the Brits get a good hiding from Irish trainers , if British trainers started winning more the crowds would undoubtedly increase.
Cheltenham has lost its horsey roots. Groups turn up in bars, on the beer all day, the toilet traps are littered with silver paper on the floor, the selfies are critical, one just has to be seen to be there alongside Tarquin and his mates on face time, x tube or tok tick , like the baby picture on father christmas's knee....everybody has one.
It is clear the BHA/Jockey Club have no clue as to how to resurrect the decline.
Basically poor running of a business , short term greed over strategic longevity .
The 66,000 attendance limit is far too high and reflects an attempt to provide equilibrium of supply and demand and maximisation of profits. Once again the weekenders surface promoting a gold cup Saturday suggesting attendances would be boosted by more non-locals and more youngsters on a weekend. Really ?
The Guinness is down in price, tickets are cheaper for early birds, measures that point to concerns about the festival’s atmosphere and overall value. As fewer visitors attend the event, local business returns have also decreased in revenue, a drop in foot traffic and sales, so maintaining a strong turnout is crucial to the locals. Every year the Brits get a good hiding from Irish trainers , if British trainers started winning more the crowds would undoubtedly increase.
Cheltenham has lost its horsey roots. Groups turn up in bars, on the beer all day, the toilet traps are littered with silver paper on the floor, the selfies are critical, one just has to be seen to be there alongside Tarquin and his mates on face time, x tube or tok tick , like the baby picture on father christmas's knee....everybody has one.
It is clear the BHA/Jockey Club have no clue as to how to resurrect the decline.
The first proper weekend of the season approaches with plenty of big names running at Down Royal and Wetherby.
My Cheltenham antepost portfolio has already taken a big hit with the news that William Munny stays over hurdles instead of being aimed at the Arkle.
My Cheltenham antepost portfolio has already taken a big hit with the news that William Munny stays over hurdles instead of being aimed at the Arkle.
I see silly season has started with Dan Skeltons Mydaddypaddy being made a ridiculous 8/1 for the Supreme Novices after winning at 1/2 at Carlisle.
He’d won a terrible Huntingdon bumper on debut where the third horse has run twice since being beaten 31l and 28l.
He may yet turn out to be a superstar but the antepost game is deadl
He’d won a terrible Huntingdon bumper on debut where the third horse has run twice since being beaten 31l and 28l.
He may yet turn out to be a superstar but the antepost game is deadl
But the anti post game is dead
William hill
Champion hurdle
The new lion 4
Lossiemouth 5
State man 5
Constitution hill 6
Anzadam 10
William munny 12
Wodhooh 16
Salvator mundi 16
Lulamba 16
Kopek des bordes 16
Kargesse 20
You would be hard pressed to name the worst value from the above there’s some even dafter ones around the 25 33 mark
William hill
Champion hurdle
The new lion 4
Lossiemouth 5
State man 5
Constitution hill 6
Anzadam 10
William munny 12
Wodhooh 16
Salvator mundi 16
Lulamba 16
Kopek des bordes 16
Kargesse 20
You would be hard pressed to name the worst value from the above there’s some even dafter ones around the 25 33 mark
Well the season is well and truly underway and there have been plenty of impressive performances.
Was great to see Envoi Allen win another Down Royal Chase but hard to see him winning at Cheltenham at his age.
The November Cheltenham meeting looked very disappointing on paper (the Paddy Power Handicap and Greatwood were desperately poor) and other than an impressive win for L'eau Du Sud I don't think there was anything much to take out of it.
Willie Mullins brought out his two big novice chase guns at Navan and Final Demand and Kopek Des Bordes both already look bankers for Cheltenham with injury or jumping issues the only thing likely to beat them.
Lulamba also won nicely enough on debut at Exeter but might be between trips and so have no suitable target at Cheltenham.
At Haydock Grey Dawning avenged his defeat in last years Betfair Chase with a smooth performance but not sure the Irish have much to worry about.
The Jukebox Man returned in the graduation chase and jumped just as well as he had in his two wins last year and now heads to Compton on Boxing Day.
At Ascot Jango Baie won impressively and is now leading the home challenge for the King George.
The John Durkan was a Mullins benefit with Gaelic Warrior rallying to beat Fact To File. GW is now meant to be going for the King George and on ratings will be well clear but I will look to oppose him.
No idea what they do with Fact To File between now and Cheltenham but he surely wins the Ryanair again.
Fastorslow returned from a. year off to be a very distant third and while he was obviously out for the run it's hard to see him closing the gap sufficiently.
The only horse I have added to my ante post portfolio is Sortudo at 40/1 for the Turners. I saw a Danny Mullins YouTube clip on Saturday morning where he was sat in his car and went through the Mullins runners this weekend (he tipped Gaelic Warrior) and he went through his Sunday rides at Cork and gave a really good report on Sortudo saying how much they liked him. TBH I had no idea what the horse had done previously but after looking at his race record he looked very promising and I took the view that the intermediate trip would be his ideal so backed him accordingly before Sunday.
After I had backed him I later saw the Racing Post antepost YouTube video with Johnny Dineen and David Jennings. DJ put up Soltudo as his first ante post bet but for the Albert Bartlett and JD also said he liked him and could only see him being aimed at the Albert Bartlett.
I really don't know why they both think that based on his form - and after the race at Cork which was over 2m Danny said he showed plenty of speed (he travelled like a dream and if anything pulled his way to the lead too soon) and imo I'd say the Supreme was more likely than the AB. He is still 33/1 in places for the Turners and so I'll back my judgement and I have gone in again.
Was great to see Envoi Allen win another Down Royal Chase but hard to see him winning at Cheltenham at his age.
The November Cheltenham meeting looked very disappointing on paper (the Paddy Power Handicap and Greatwood were desperately poor) and other than an impressive win for L'eau Du Sud I don't think there was anything much to take out of it.
Willie Mullins brought out his two big novice chase guns at Navan and Final Demand and Kopek Des Bordes both already look bankers for Cheltenham with injury or jumping issues the only thing likely to beat them.
Lulamba also won nicely enough on debut at Exeter but might be between trips and so have no suitable target at Cheltenham.
At Haydock Grey Dawning avenged his defeat in last years Betfair Chase with a smooth performance but not sure the Irish have much to worry about.
The Jukebox Man returned in the graduation chase and jumped just as well as he had in his two wins last year and now heads to Compton on Boxing Day.
At Ascot Jango Baie won impressively and is now leading the home challenge for the King George.
The John Durkan was a Mullins benefit with Gaelic Warrior rallying to beat Fact To File. GW is now meant to be going for the King George and on ratings will be well clear but I will look to oppose him.
No idea what they do with Fact To File between now and Cheltenham but he surely wins the Ryanair again.
Fastorslow returned from a. year off to be a very distant third and while he was obviously out for the run it's hard to see him closing the gap sufficiently.
The only horse I have added to my ante post portfolio is Sortudo at 40/1 for the Turners. I saw a Danny Mullins YouTube clip on Saturday morning where he was sat in his car and went through the Mullins runners this weekend (he tipped Gaelic Warrior) and he went through his Sunday rides at Cork and gave a really good report on Sortudo saying how much they liked him. TBH I had no idea what the horse had done previously but after looking at his race record he looked very promising and I took the view that the intermediate trip would be his ideal so backed him accordingly before Sunday.
After I had backed him I later saw the Racing Post antepost YouTube video with Johnny Dineen and David Jennings. DJ put up Soltudo as his first ante post bet but for the Albert Bartlett and JD also said he liked him and could only see him being aimed at the Albert Bartlett.
I really don't know why they both think that based on his form - and after the race at Cork which was over 2m Danny said he showed plenty of speed (he travelled like a dream and if anything pulled his way to the lead too soon) and imo I'd say the Supreme was more likely than the AB. He is still 33/1 in places for the Turners and so I'll back my judgement and I have gone in again.
Another weekend where the UK action was a damp squib, the old Hennessy, like the Mackeson, is a shadow of it’s former glories.
The Fighting Faith was at least eventful but no fun seeing Constitution Hill try to kill himself again. Has to be retired now imo.
Will be interesting to see what turns up at Kempton for the Christmas Hurdle.
A much better weekend at Fairyhouse where the Hattons Grace gave us a similarly dramatic finish to the John Durkan.
Think Mullins was secretly seething with Townend for getting beat.
Hopefully they both make it to Cheltenham in good form an£ they can serve up another belter.
Romeo Coolio was impressive in an admittedly weak Drinmore but sounds like Elliot prefers to steer clear of Cheltenham given he’d have to drop back or step up in trip, and of course take on the Mullins big guns.
The Royal Bond was Rui ed by defections of the front two in the market and so will have little relevance.
The Juvenile was a bit better but hard to see Mange Tout being best of the Irish come March.
Indeed perhaps the most interesting Elliot juvenile performance came in the fillies race at Newbury on Friday where Highland Crystal won easil6 in the same Robcour colours. H3 used this race with Woodhooh last season so she is definitely one for the notebook.
The Fighting Faith was at least eventful but no fun seeing Constitution Hill try to kill himself again. Has to be retired now imo.
Will be interesting to see what turns up at Kempton for the Christmas Hurdle.
A much better weekend at Fairyhouse where the Hattons Grace gave us a similarly dramatic finish to the John Durkan.
Think Mullins was secretly seething with Townend for getting beat.
Hopefully they both make it to Cheltenham in good form an£ they can serve up another belter.
Romeo Coolio was impressive in an admittedly weak Drinmore but sounds like Elliot prefers to steer clear of Cheltenham given he’d have to drop back or step up in trip, and of course take on the Mullins big guns.
The Royal Bond was Rui ed by defections of the front two in the market and so will have little relevance.
The Juvenile was a bit better but hard to see Mange Tout being best of the Irish come March.
Indeed perhaps the most interesting Elliot juvenile performance came in the fillies race at Newbury on Friday where Highland Crystal won easil6 in the same Robcour colours. H3 used this race with Woodhooh last season so she is definitely one for the notebook.
How do you ask for a horse to be added to a market, upon tweed should be 2nd fave for the supreme novice hurdle and it’s not even on the exchange
El Cairos looked to be hacking up when tripping on landing at the last. I was sure h3vhad broken a leg but touch wood it look# like he is ok.
Had looked a potential star last season when hamstrung by being ridden by David Maxwell and was backed as if defeat was out of the question even though taking on the Mullins talking horse Doctor Du Mesnil.
Dreadful luck.
Mydaddypaddy had his bubble burst at Aintree where the low sun rather ruined the race.
Had looked a potential star last season when hamstrung by being ridden by David Maxwell and was backed as if defeat was out of the question even though taking on the Mullins talking horse Doctor Du Mesnil.
Dreadful luck.
Mydaddypaddy had his bubble burst at Aintree where the low sun rather ruined the race.
Kitzbuhel was impressive in the Feltham but Wendigo looks the one to take out of it for Cheltenham on softer ground but hard to see him troubling Final Demand.
Sir Gino now hot favourite for the CH but I’d be looking for something against him.
Golden Ace not really suited by the fast ground and sharp track and if she is 16/1+ on the day on softer ground she looks a cracking e/w bet .
NB: still say Kargese should be aimed here.
Golden Ace not really suited by the fast ground and sharp track and if she is 16/1+ on the day on softer ground she looks a cracking e/w bet .
NB: still say Kargese should be aimed here.
Mydaddypaddy's bubble was just what you said. There'll probably be another couple of false favourites for the Supreme too.
If El Cairos is none the worse he looks a worthy favourite as he has the bumper form to back it up.
Be nice if h3 can get a confidence boosting win in a little maiden or novice before the Dublin racing festival.
Be nice if h3 can get a confidence boosting win in a little maiden or novice before the Dublin racing festival.
King George was a thriller and a great result for racing on one of the biggest days of the year.
The Jukebox Man is a splendid animal who you can set your watch by - travels, jumps and battles.
Fact To File ran terribly and one can only hope he bounced after his big effort in the John Durkan. Presumably goes straight to the Ryanair now. Jango Baie should be aimed there as well imo but looks like they will go the Gold Cup route. Gaelic Warrior will prefer softer ground and will be a player in March.
Can Inothewayurthinkin or Galopin put down a marker in the Savills?
The Jukebox Man is a splendid animal who you can set your watch by - travels, jumps and battles.
Fact To File ran terribly and one can only hope he bounced after his big effort in the John Durkan. Presumably goes straight to the Ryanair now. Jango Baie should be aimed there as well imo but looks like they will go the Gold Cup route. Gaelic Warrior will prefer softer ground and will be a player in March.
Can Inothewayurthinkin or Galopin put down a marker in the Savills?
A cracking race for the two miler Leopardstown with Solness repeating his win from 12 months ago.
Marine Nationale ran a cracker and like last year will be brought to a peak for Cheltenham.
My favourite horse Kargese won effortlessly after her only real rival crashed out at the third last.
Hopefully she is aimed at the Arkle now though the fate of Kopek Des Bordes might dictate that - will lump on once NRNB is available.
Marine Nationale ran a cracker and like last year will be brought to a peak for Cheltenham.
My favourite horse Kargese won effortlessly after her only real rival crashed out at the third last.
Hopefully she is aimed at the Arkle now though the fate of Kopek Des Bordes might dictate that - will lump on once NRNB is available.
Will be watching the opener at Limerick with interest as Kaiser Ball makes his hurdling debut.
I see he has left Willie Mullins to be trained by his owner/rider Tom Costello.
I see he has left Willie Mullins to be trained by his owner/rider Tom Costello.
An intriguing Savills chase with the fit and inform Affordale Fury being very well backed and then making all.
Galopin Des Champs lost his unbeaten Leopardstown record but ran a very good race on his return and with Inothewayurthinkin running another shocker he looks the one to beat in March but in a very open year I’ll be looking for a big price one to cause an upset like Lord Windermere, Nortons Coin etc.
Final Demand won comfortably at Limerick though his main rival ran a shocker so not sure he deserves to be odds on for the Brown Advisory just yet.
I said I’d be watching the maiden hurdle that opened Limericks card and the winner King Rasko Grey put up a taking performance with two nice prospects in second and third. Will be interesting to see where they go next with him.
Galopin Des Champs lost his unbeaten Leopardstown record but ran a very good race on his return and with Inothewayurthinkin running another shocker he looks the one to beat in March but in a very open year I’ll be looking for a big price one to cause an upset like Lord Windermere, Nortons Coin etc.
Final Demand won comfortably at Limerick though his main rival ran a shocker so not sure he deserves to be odds on for the Brown Advisory just yet.
I said I’d be watching the maiden hurdle that opened Limericks card and the winner King Rasko Grey put up a taking performance with two nice prospects in second and third. Will be interesting to see where they go next with him.
With the Gold Cup wide open is there the possibility that Iroko might be rerouted here rather than Grand National ? If he runs in Cotswold and performs well 66/1 could look generous.
His schooling run behind Jukebox Man puts him bang in the argument.
His schooling run behind Jukebox Man puts him bang in the argument.
Sortudo reappears on Sunday in the Grade 1 Ballymore Novice Hurdle over 2m4f.
He’s my biggest antepost position for Cheltenham at 40/1 and 33/1 but that is looking a bit dicey now.
He had been around 11/8 antepost but at declaration stage Paul Townend has opted to ride Saint Baco and so he is now a warm favourite with Sortudo out to 7/2 with Patrick Mullins on board.
Have to say I would much prefer Danny Mullins to be in the plate after he rode him last time.
He’s my biggest antepost position for Cheltenham at 40/1 and 33/1 but that is looking a bit dicey now.
He had been around 11/8 antepost but at declaration stage Paul Townend has opted to ride Saint Baco and so he is now a warm favourite with Sortudo out to 7/2 with Patrick Mullins on board.
Have to say I would much prefer Danny Mullins to be in the plate after he rode him last time.
Im having a fever for the opener, 33s far too big, never dabble AP but had few quid on today
^Do you mean a fiver on Sortudo at 33/1?
He is over 100 on here, I’ve had a bit on that just in case.
He is over 100 on here, I’ve had a bit on that just in case.
Bar maybe Final Demand for the browns is there any value in anything antepost atm?
Well despite getting beat I was perfectly happy with the run of Sortudo at Naas. The omission of hurdles up the straight meant there was only one hurdle in the last 3/4 of a mile and that meant the all the way winner could kick on early. Patrick Mullins loomed up going best but just couldn’t get past on the long uphill run to the line. It was miles back to the third.
The Old Course at Cheltenham will suit him much better and he still strikes me as a great bet now he has been pushed out to 20/1 so have gone in again.
I’ve also had a decent saver on here for the Supreme at an average of 110 just in case they drop him back.
The Old Course at Cheltenham will suit him much better and he still strikes me as a great bet now he has been pushed out to 20/1 so have gone in again.
I’ve also had a decent saver on here for the Supreme at an average of 110 just in case they drop him back.
Cheltenham trials day was eventful, mostly for all the wrong reasons.
Obviously hopes and prayers go out to Sir Gino and hope he lives, whether to fight another day or not.
Have never been keen on The New Lion for the CH and today’s run didn’t change that at all. The Old Course will suit him less well you would think so hard to see why he is so short.
Spillanes Tower won the Cotswold Chase cosily enough but was getting 6lb from the runner up. It was good to see him looking really well though and he is definitely a player and the 25/1 straight after looked big, All hinges on the Irish Gold cup next week as to how the market might look in March.
Obviously hopes and prayers go out to Sir Gino and hope he lives, whether to fight another day or not.
Have never been keen on The New Lion for the CH and today’s run didn’t change that at all. The Old Course will suit him less well you would think so hard to see why he is so short.
Spillanes Tower won the Cotswold Chase cosily enough but was getting 6lb from the runner up. It was good to see him looking really well though and he is definitely a player and the 25/1 straight after looked big, All hinges on the Irish Gold cup next week as to how the market might look in March.
A smooth win for Shuttle Diplomacy (mentioned in op) at Naas today which was a nice boost for King Rasko Grey.
Hoping KRG can put up a big performance in the Grade 1 at the Dublin Festival next week.
Shuttle Diplomacy is 50/1 for the Turners which in an open renewal looks fair, though the trainer also mentioned the possibility of going for a handicap.
Good to hear that Sir Gino is doing ok.
Hoping KRG can put up a big performance in the Grade 1 at the Dublin Festival next week.
Shuttle Diplomacy is 50/1 for the Turners which in an open renewal looks fair, though the trainer also mentioned the possibility of going for a handicap.
Good to hear that Sir Gino is doing ok.
One of my few bets ante post this year is in the Supreme and was hoovering up odd bits and pieces on Sober Glory around the 75/85 level until they disappeared today .Only reason was that I thought it was totally unsuited to jumping right handed at Sandown , yes it won a NHF at Exeter fwiw , but looking at its hurdle runs at Chepstow and Newbury , it just seems to take a left step before its takeoff . TBF its jumping at Sandown wasnt that bad , but it rattled plenty and given it was its second jumps and first right handed I thought it might have affected its head .
Not sure where Captain Hugo would go next if he wins at Musselburgh tomorrow. I still rate him very highly but he has a very good horse to beat in Mossy Fen Road. Agree with Uncle about The New Lion. Surely no way he can beat Golden Ace and there are plenty of others to beat as well.
Well an ‘interesting’ first day of the DRF on ground which was barely raceable..
Brighterdaysahed won the Champion Hurdlexagain but given her form at Cheltenham I couldn’t back her with counterfeit at 5/2.
Assuming better, even soft, ground, at the Festival in March I’d fancy Lossiemouth to beat her but no doubt Mullins will be doing everything he can to get Ricci to go for 5he Mares again.
Final Demand ran a shocker and given his shirt price it makes me think of Il Etait Temp at Sandown and A Plus Tard at Haydock.
Barry O’Connell was a total idiot for running Marine Nationale. His big mouth over the last few weeks meant he couldn’t back out. At least he finished and back at Cheltenham on better ground he’s still the most likely winner of the QM imo, though was hoping he might have drifted to 5/1.
The best race of the day was the novice hurdle and the front three all enhanced their reputations. I was flabbergasted that Townsend ride King Rasko Grey so prominently and with a hold up ride he may well have won. The winner will relish the Cheltenham hill but could get too far back.
Brighterdaysahed won the Champion Hurdlexagain but given her form at Cheltenham I couldn’t back her with counterfeit at 5/2.
Assuming better, even soft, ground, at the Festival in March I’d fancy Lossiemouth to beat her but no doubt Mullins will be doing everything he can to get Ricci to go for 5he Mares again.
Final Demand ran a shocker and given his shirt price it makes me think of Il Etait Temp at Sandown and A Plus Tard at Haydock.
Barry O’Connell was a total idiot for running Marine Nationale. His big mouth over the last few weeks meant he couldn’t back out. At least he finished and back at Cheltenham on better ground he’s still the most likely winner of the QM imo, though was hoping he might have drifted to 5/1.
The best race of the day was the novice hurdle and the front three all enhanced their reputations. I was flabbergasted that Townsend ride King Rasko Grey so prominently and with a hold up ride he may well have won. The winner will relish the Cheltenham hill but could get too far back.
The Champion Hurdle was throughly run throughout which contributed to the pace collapsing off of the home bend, up to that point they were way clear of the earlier novice hurdle which was run far more steadier throughout and to that end I think you can greatly mark up Talk The Talk who had to make up a lot of ground off of a steady pace against horses that weren't stopping, they really picked up the pace from two out and for him to cut down the front two from that position was impressive. The Supreme is looking to be a really hot race.
Think JB and TJM hands have been strengthened after this week end, they look like two stayers, JB thoroughly so IMO, GDC looks like father time might be catching up with him and last years winner, well who knows???, think GW and FTF will both run in the Ryanair and Spillane's in the GC.
You're deluded x20 if you think f2f won't run in a GC after today,probably ricis in ryan air as too free
I thought Narciso Has was imperious today. He is 6/4 NRNB with Billy and I have had a decent thump. He will be odds on on the day. Nobody in that race will get near to him at Cheltenham. Just a Nicky late bloomer to worry about. As a long suffering fan of Majborough, I was glad he delivered at last. On at 4/1 and if he avoids other horses for the first 3 or 4 fences, he looks a good thing. The interesting thing will be whether these DRF horse are still on top form after hard races in that ground. We shall see. Good luck all
Another interesting day that muddied the waters even more.
Dr Steinberg won the long distance novice hurdle in almost identical fashion to Final Demand the previous year. Whether he goes for the Turners or Albert Bartlett will be the question now - your guess is a s good as mine.
Narciso Has dominated the Triumph Hurdle trial and is a worthy favorite for Cheltenham, but I'm not sure there is much strength in depth to the Irish juveniles this year and so I'm not backing him at 7/4.
The Arkle trial showed that a two horse race (effectively) can still be a great watch. My favorite horse Kargese
ran well and, just like in her juvenile hurdle days when she travelled all over Sir Gino and Majborough, she looked to have the race in the bag two out but stamina eventually won the day. I have always maintained the Old Course will play right to her strengths so can certainly see her reversing form with Romeo Coolio, if he shows up, though it won't be surprising if she gets run out of it late on by Lulamba.
Fact To File bounced back to form and also showed he stayed 3m, after looking a non stayer in two goes last year, though he wasn't up against a peak form GDC like last year. Again the question is which race will he go to, and if he does go for the Gold Cup will he stay the extra distance.
With Inothewayurthinkin flopping again JP may well supplement him and I wonder if that were the case could Spillane's Tower be rerouted to the Ryanair?
Gaelic Warrior ran well enough and should go for Gold imo, but again could end up win Ryanair.
Galopin Des Champs ran ok and I can understand Mullins suggesting he was below his best after the Christmas run so 10/1 e/w isn't the worst price.
I just don't fancy Jango Baie or The Jukebox Man who head the market - all very confusing.
Dr Steinberg won the long distance novice hurdle in almost identical fashion to Final Demand the previous year. Whether he goes for the Turners or Albert Bartlett will be the question now - your guess is a s good as mine.
Narciso Has dominated the Triumph Hurdle trial and is a worthy favorite for Cheltenham, but I'm not sure there is much strength in depth to the Irish juveniles this year and so I'm not backing him at 7/4.
The Arkle trial showed that a two horse race (effectively) can still be a great watch. My favorite horse Kargese
ran well and, just like in her juvenile hurdle days when she travelled all over Sir Gino and Majborough, she looked to have the race in the bag two out but stamina eventually won the day. I have always maintained the Old Course will play right to her strengths so can certainly see her reversing form with Romeo Coolio, if he shows up, though it won't be surprising if she gets run out of it late on by Lulamba.Fact To File bounced back to form and also showed he stayed 3m, after looking a non stayer in two goes last year, though he wasn't up against a peak form GDC like last year. Again the question is which race will he go to, and if he does go for the Gold Cup will he stay the extra distance.
With Inothewayurthinkin flopping again JP may well supplement him and I wonder if that were the case could Spillane's Tower be rerouted to the Ryanair?
Gaelic Warrior ran well enough and should go for Gold imo, but again could end up win Ryanair.
Galopin Des Champs ran ok and I can understand Mullins suggesting he was below his best after the Christmas run so 10/1 e/w isn't the worst price.
I just don't fancy Jango Baie or The Jukebox Man who head the market - all very confusing.
^ if paul had of kept straight after the 2nd last I think he may have won,Romeo travelled well throughout the race just got a bit behind with the mistake at the 2nd last
Well a quiet enough period since my last post with just the Constitution Hill fiasco having much effect on the markets.
The way the market was I had begun to lose all hope of my main antepost position, Sortudo, even running in the Turners but I saw Patrick Mullins give him a decent shout on a Paddy Power YouTube video yesterday and he has shortened on here from around 50 to 24.
He might only be the third string from the Mullins stable if Mighty Park and King Rasko Grey run. Got my fingers crossed that Danny Mullins can take the ride and not Patrick.
The way the market was I had begun to lose all hope of my main antepost position, Sortudo, even running in the Turners but I saw Patrick Mullins give him a decent shout on a Paddy Power YouTube video yesterday and he has shortened on here from around 50 to 24.
He might only be the third string from the Mullins stable if Mighty Park and King Rasko Grey run. Got my fingers crossed that Danny Mullins can take the ride and not Patrick.
Marine Nationale out of the Champion Chase - a massive blow to my ante post portfolio.
Had a very large straight bet at over 6/1 but he was also in about a dozen really good looking accas.
Had a very large straight bet at over 6/1 but he was also in about a dozen really good looking accas.
Mighty Park and Dr Steinberg not declared for the Turners - Willie clearly feels Sortudo is a certainty.
JP McManus turning 75 on Tuesday, may have something to do with it.
Sortudo backed off the boards but ran a shocker.
Final Demand pipped by a stablemate who was only supposed to act right handed,
Final Demand pipped by a stablemate who was only supposed to act right handed,
Well done with Kargese, Unc. She's a fine-looking mare.
Everything hinges on Gaelic Warrior tomorrow. Even FTF has been taken away from me antepost.
Hoping the rain comes in sufficient quantity overnight to enable Spillanes Tower to at least get a run, and hopefully win the GC.
Also got fingers crossed for Maestro Conti in the Triumph and Fruit De Mer in the potato race.
Also got fingers crossed for Maestro Conti in the Triumph and Fruit De Mer in the potato race.
Well a non runner (antepost so stake lost) and two seconds (backed at 30 and 65 on here) beaten by 50/1 and 20/1 shots rather summed up my meeting.
I started a new job on Monday sop this was the first Festival I haven't been able to watch in real time and just watching replays later on didn't give me the buzz at all.
I've been betting less and less over the last couple of years (betting restrictions, draw bias's, domination of Mullins, Coolmore etc) and I think even the thrill of trying to find antepost bets for Cheltenham has waned so I won't be starting a 2027 thread.
GL ALL
I started a new job on Monday sop this was the first Festival I haven't been able to watch in real time and just watching replays later on didn't give me the buzz at all.
I've been betting less and less over the last couple of years (betting restrictions, draw bias's, domination of Mullins, Coolmore etc) and I think even the thrill of trying to find antepost bets for Cheltenham has waned so I won't be starting a 2027 thread.
GL ALL
That’s sad to know Uncle as you pick out genuine AP bets, you have a few to look forwards to this year on the flat that I’ll be keeping an eye on such as your filly for the Jubliee.
Thanks Delashay.
I’ll still post on relevant threads if I think have found something interesting.
As I say I haven’t really studied the VT of this years races, I think I only watched the last furlong of the bumper for instance, so other than obvious bets that the market has priced up accordingly, and are therefore of no interest to me, I haven’t formed any strong opinions.
Still think Sortudo is high class so whether he got injured (made a small mistake 3 out and soon back-pedalled), or whether it was the ground I’ll be interested if he goes to Punchestown.
I’ll still post on relevant threads if I think have found something interesting.
As I say I haven’t really studied the VT of this years races, I think I only watched the last furlong of the bumper for instance, so other than obvious bets that the market has priced up accordingly, and are therefore of no interest to me, I haven’t formed any strong opinions.
Still think Sortudo is high class so whether he got injured (made a small mistake 3 out and soon back-pedalled), or whether it was the ground I’ll be interested if he goes to Punchestown.
I'll miss you Uncle, I always enjoy your thoughtful analysis.
I had a frustrating time AP-wise too - I'd got some nice AP positions, but nearly all of them then ran like dogs. But I'll keep at it, because I enjoy the challenge. Maybe fewer of Eliott's going forward though...
I had a frustrating time AP-wise too - I'd got some nice AP positions, but nearly all of them then ran like dogs. But I'll keep at it, because I enjoy the challenge. Maybe fewer of Eliott's going forward though...
Cheers Strontium - as I say I’ll still post my thoughts if I see a bet I like - just gets harder and harder to know where horses will be aimed or whether the going will be suitable.
I was all over King Rasko Grey at big prices for the Supreme for example, and even Mullins in his post race interview said he had thought he was a Supreme horse all season. I should have at least covered on him for the Turners but was probably blinded by my bets, and faith, in Sortudo.
Elliot’s Cheltenham record is definitely a curious one - even in winning Woodhooh probably underperformed by 10lb.
I also wasn’t keen on the changes to the running order - having the Ultima and Plate on the same day seemed a bit daft.
I was all over King Rasko Grey at big prices for the Supreme for example, and even Mullins in his post race interview said he had thought he was a Supreme horse all season.
I should have at least covered on him for the Turners but was probably blinded by my bets, and faith, in Sortudo.Elliot’s Cheltenham record is definitely a curious one - even in winning Woodhooh probably underperformed by 10lb.
I also wasn’t keen on the changes to the running order - having the Ultima and Plate on the same day seemed a bit daft.
The habit of shuffling your horses right up to the 2 day final decs has steadily increased and combined with late injuries and sickness reinforces my view that finding a runner in a named Festival race on January 1 is an odds against exercise. The only ones I was tempted to have were Constitution Hill (before Newscastle and laid off after Southwell) Golden Ace and The Jukebox Man. two out of three ran but both disappointed. My best results were last minute decisions, often in running such as Libberty Hunter and Bass Hunter place only on Wednesday and several near misses laid off such as Final Demand, Regents Stroll and Minella Study.
The continued failure of Sean Bowen and Olly Murphy is a feature of the meeting and demonstrates that they are masters of placing decent but not top class horses.
The continued failure of Sean Bowen and Olly Murphy is a feature of the meeting and demonstrates that they are masters of placing decent but not top class horses.
Uncle , your posts are a joy and even given the uncertainty of target ,as you say , one hopefully can still benefit . I played around on here with Wilful and Casheldale Lad for buttons at huge prices and though neither eventually ran in the CH , I had a small winning race . The payback was then Wiful's facile win .I also like last minute decisions (based on my often misguided theories ) , this year , the only one with legs was the hope that Patrick liked and nurtured Apolon De Charmie because of both its one run , but more importantly because he knew he would never get the ride on Proactiv .(apologies for AT ).
It’s not the same watching on replays for sure, I watched very little this season of the jumps and I felt better off for it! Most Saturdays have poor cards and you see the same again and again.
As I’m not a big fan of it I just stick to the races that I know, the class events, the handicaps are ok if you have info but many of these races offer little value to the punter.
Paying only 3 places for such big fields is terrible, even the Gold Cup only had 3 places! One firm went 4 and they were all short at the top of the market bunched together, the others out of them bad ew prices.
Really the books squeezed every last drop out of it.
World Hurdle continues to be a dire race so I’ll be scratching that from my ‘class races bracket’ as im happy wirh a treble anyway! not greedy me!
Nice one Paul!! Watch out they’ll be after you!
I kicked myself for not seeing that after as it’s a race where a price can win and as you said he couldn’t ride the others so his dad put him on one that could!
As I’m not a big fan of it I just stick to the races that I know, the class events, the handicaps are ok if you have info but many of these races offer little value to the punter.
Paying only 3 places for such big fields is terrible, even the Gold Cup only had 3 places! One firm went 4 and they were all short at the top of the market bunched together, the others out of them bad ew prices.
Really the books squeezed every last drop out of it.
World Hurdle continues to be a dire race so I’ll be scratching that from my ‘class races bracket’ as im happy wirh a treble anyway!
not greedy me! Nice one Paul!! Watch out they’ll be after you!
I kicked myself for not seeing that after as it’s a race where a price can win and as you said he couldn’t ride the others so his dad put him on one that could!
Yes Uncle, I agree about the running order. Tuesday felt flat to me, and I'm not sure why. It's almost like the three high-quality races got swamped by the four mass-field handicaps. Running the Winter so early on the card also felt odd.
Well my long range Grand National bet on High Class Hero gave me a great run for my money - though sadly no return.
The rest of Aintree wasn’t especially thrilling and so it’s on to Punchestown.
The rest of Aintree wasn’t especially thrilling and so it’s on to Punchestown.
Jagwar reminds me a bit of Big Bucks - massive engine but after a promising start over fences he now can’t jump for toffee.
Could he revert to hurdles and be a Stayers candidate next season?
Could he revert to hurdles and be a Stayers candidate next season?
I see that one of my followed horses Kaiser Ball was sold for big money to the Skeltons this week.
Not sure why he never ran again after a good hurdle debut at Limerick over Christmas behind King Rasko Grey but he will still be a novice this season and given the lack of sexy candidates he looks good value in the 2027 antepost markets.
Not sure why he never ran again after a good hurdle debut at Limerick over Christmas behind King Rasko Grey but he will still be a novice this season and given the lack of sexy candidates he looks good value in the 2027 antepost markets.
I saw that Kaiser Ball, who I backed for the Supreme, got sold for decent money last week and is now heading the Skeltons.
Only ran the once last season when third behind King Rasko Grey and Shuttle Diplomacy at Christmas when trained and ridden by the Costello’s.
He will still be a novice this season and with professional training and a top jockey on board he could be a cracking bet for the Supreme again. Only being quoted by B365 at 33/1 which I would play if I wasn’t blacklisted by them.
Only ran the once last season when third behind King Rasko Grey and Shuttle Diplomacy at Christmas when trained and ridden by the Costello’s.
He will still be a novice this season and with professional training and a top jockey on board he could be a cracking bet for the Supreme again. Only being quoted by B365 at 33/1 which I would play if I wasn’t blacklisted by them.
I see Harry Redknapp has become a part owner of Kaiser Ball which will increase awareness.
Skelton saying he looks a stayer and so the 40/1 for the 2m5f novice (whatever it’s called these days) might be a good bet.
Skelton saying he looks a stayer and so the 40/1 for the 2m5f novice (whatever it’s called these days) might be a good bet.
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