rebelfm

And so to West Sussex for a night of summer jump racing with a difference. No Riverdancing, no lifestyle soft furnishing and accessory parade, no vicars and tarts specials, no journeyman banjo player complete with obligatory comedy striped rowing club blazer and definitely no singles night love shack.

To make up for this we had a good card of varied racing and the bonus of a couple of potentially high class performers for the future which had me guessing as to why introduce then at this stage of the season? Perhaps we are now in a phase where jump trainers are gearing up for a March to December season rather than a September to May? This course of action does of course inevitably rely on going with good in it to give confidence that training programmes geared up to summer racing returns really is going with good in it. I have detected a trend to stretch the parameters for going declarations to insert Good in the title where Good was not evident from a walk on the track.

The ability to provide good ground, particularly for jumpers, was bought home tonight with what looked like a fatal injury to Premier Des  Marais (I hope I am wrong but it looked bad to me and this report was put together before I had seen tomorrow’s Racing Post). The ground was reported by the jockeys as being good after the first race, but it was a warm night with a bit of wind so drying conditions. Therefore was the track speeding up a bit or was the fall just very very bad luck. To me it looked a clip of the fence, landing slightly off balance and then unshipping the jockey. The injury looked to be in the joint and the equivalence of a footballer badly turning his ankle and ending up with badly damaged ligaments or a broken leg. But I am not saying that the going was the problem all I am saying is that for credible summer jump racing there needs to be minimising risk of injury and firm ground to my eye needs to be clearly identified and trainers / jockeys make the appropriate decisions.

Fontwell Park has changed dramatically over the past few years with new stands popping up and it is now a modern smart track. The most recent addition is a plush members’ stand which is highly impressive. The course still keeps connection with its past with bars being names after some of the greats such as Salmon Spray, National Spirit and Comedy of Errors. Entry to the course was an eye-watering £17 which is far too much in these recessionary times and I wonder how many racegoers will think twice about another visit on the basis of this cost. You did get access to everywhere bar the members which was better than the Yorkshire tracks madness. However on change I was not that happy with was the corralling of racegoers on the course to only one of the figure of eight loops. In the past you could wonder freely to all the jumps if you wanted, that privilege has been restricted. On the plus I cannot remember in the past being able to park in the centre so for picnickers this was a real plus. The race card was at the normal price of £2.50. However did not include a diagramme of the course layout and did have around 50% of the content as adverts. Plus we had Timeform in polite mode with comments such as ‘not beaten a rival’ which in the past would have said a plain and simple ‘useless’ or ‘temperamental and needs treating with caution’ metamorphosing from ‘complete jade’. Food on course was not too bad in price you could get curry/rice/bread plus tea for less than £6 for example.



Let them eat cake. Fantastic members stand

The course is unique on GB as a figure of eight and not the Windsor half hearted effort either. But this is only for chasers. The track overall is about a mile around going left handed and as such is tight with course specialists (particularly chasers) prevalent. I have been here on many occasions and seen some pretty good racing. There is a February meeting which has thrown up the odd Cheltenham winner. For example I was here the year Mossy Moore won with Jonjo up before going on the win the Grand Annual. On date sticks in my mind and that was Monday 28th May 1984 when John Francome came to the course to break Stan Mellor’s record number of career wins for a jump jockey.  Looking at the 40p race card I see there was actually a proper plan of the track so why not now? It is useful to know where the open ditches are and whether there is a water jump or not. Plus the racecard was signed by the great man himself. He (according to my notes) managed do the business on the even money favourite Country Agent for his guv’nor in the fifth. Also interesting that at this stage of his career Richard Dunwoody was still an amateur rider.



En countre West takes a stand against East's love of foilage with a sublime treeless paddock

Known as The Greatest Jockey by his Channel Four colleagues, John Francome was a superb horseman who had a bit of the cavalier in him which epitomised the seventies anti-establishment feel of that decade’s youth. His autobiography ‘Born Lucky’ is interesting. Although there was no reference made within the book to some of his potential albeit distant related members of the Francome clan. I was working near Heathrow at an asphalt plant which was frequented by gypsies who specialised in the driveway game. Now these were rough as feck men. But sharp as razors. They had scams like you wouldn’t believe. The whole family often around eight of them would be somehow crammed into the cab of the three and a half tonne pick up. They would all remain in the vehicle as it tarred off. Once off the weighbridge all bar the driver would spread out searching the yard for any discarded item such as brooms, shovels and rakes. Whilst this is going on the wagon would fill up with material and then go over the weighbridge with the difference between tare and laden constituting the sale tonnes. This was paid off despite the fact that the tare was the equivalent of a tonne more than it should have been. They would leave the yard one tonne happier, three brooms heavier and the yard manager relieved that was as far as it had gone. Nothing was done that was illegal or sleight of hand but it was a wonder to see the military precision of the operation.

By the way we never had a complaint from their customer’s regarding workmanship so the idea that they are not high quality at what they do should be strongly dispelled. These guys worked with cash. It was a simple process they got money from the customer as long as they didn’t spend it all on materials etc it was profitable. One of the genres who was really good our firm tried to help him by setting up an account and offering him credit. It was the worst thing we could have done as he had no idea where he was on costs and prices because this was alien to him. In the end he begged to go back to cash as the credit basis was knackering up his ability to manage his business.

The racing kicked off with a surprisingly high quality novice chase with two very useful hurdlers racing at this early stage of their chasing career. The winner and odds on favourite was Barizan who was the top juvenile of 2010 winning at Punchestown and Aintree whilst being runner up in the Triumph. He has been handicapped out of things in his follow up season as many four year olds are. He jumped very well for a debutante, making a couple of minor errors but was very hard driven from 2 out and is a bit flattered by the winning distance. There was no sign of temperament which had been hinted at over hurdles and may just be a lazy racer. The runner up Helium was very impressive and jumped extremely well for a novice. I did not think he was given too hard a time of it and I think he is sure to break his maiden in the next outing or so.  Mister Matt plugged on in his own time to be a distant third giving impression may need further but was comprehensively outclassed by a couple of decent recruits.



The useful Barizan enters the paddock before winning very decent novice chase

The novice hurdle had two potentially useful geldings. The winner was Geneva Geyser an ex flat fair handicapper who had won on galloping course so this would not necessarily be to his advantage. He looked as if the race would do him good as appeared a bit backward, has the scope to make a chaser and hurdled well in the main tonight. Produced from halfway came through to lead two out and ran out a comfortable winner despite making a bit of a hash of the final flight. The runner up Green Mining looked to be a fair novice based on his win at Worcester and although his seven pound penalty appears to have been the cause of defeat he was comprehensively beaten and if meeting on levels I would be amazed if he could turn the form around. Appeared to be destined for second as they came into the straight.  The third Roanstar is interesting. Did not look too much in the paddock and appeared a little edgy. Was help up until approaching the straight when produced.He was making some ground on the leaders when making an error three out, took time to get going again and did well to be third. On the basis of the ability and experience of the first two home plus the fact that this was his first effort over hurdles I think this was very encouraging. Of the rest Subtle Approach ran his best to date and belied his 150/1 odds but was fit and this is probably as good as he is. Que Vivo made a few mistakes and after one around 5 out was eased down, Bluemoonandstars looked backward in the paddock and was not fluent making a particularly bad blunder 4 out.



Fine debut by the grey (?) Roanstar

The first handicap chase was over three miles two and was a class 4 event. The two market principles were regular protagonists Orion Star and Lansdowne Princess. This time Orion got the call with a good round of jumping. The same could not be claimed by Lansdowne. She made a blunder 4 out which knocked the stuffing out of her and she came home fourth. Prior Glen jumped cleanly but to the right throughout the race and although not disgraced may well have got closer to winning with straighter jumping. Perhaps a right handed track may help?  Third was one of the outsiders Alteranthela who looked in very good condition in the paddock being the pick. Raced prominently, battled hard and this was an encouraging race. One for the notebook perhaps in this sort of company.



Alteranthela leads them at halfway with Orion Star jumping close up in the dark colours.

The first handicap hurdle was for novices which are notoriously difficult to get right. The race developed into a tight battle between  Parazar (hold up horse produced from 3 out and smoothly came through to take it up on the run in but needed strong driving to win) and Lajidaal (a right handful. Last into the paddock once jockeys were up, frothing a bit at the mouth, but looked settled once on the track not showing temperamental signs. Looked in great nick, is tough and ran really well despite pulling hard. If he can settle a bit more can win off this mark. Of the others the favourite Island News looked to my eye a bit burly in the paddock and was pulled up at the last although his chance had gone soon into the straight, Cardinal James was outpaced to finish third, Border Station was never on the premises but finished a flattered fourth, The Pole Tudor would have been fourth if not falling at the last and Before The War was under the whip a mile out and under hard driving could do no more than be a one paced and thrashed fifth. May need further but is clearly on too high a mark of 105.

The two mile and a quarter handicap chase was a very competitive class 5 event. The jumping by most of the field was very good and the race turned into a good tussle as Princely Hero (well ridden by 7lbs claimer Tom Cannon moved smoothly to dispute around the final bend and lead 3 out and despite being challenged moved clear on the run in) and Good Old Days (always close up just lacked the toe of his younger rival but a decent round of jumping from this consistent campaigner) fought the closing stages out. Zhukov was somehow third only 5 lengths behind the runner up. He was never going particularly well and then suddenly picked up the blundering Battlefield Bob and the one paced fourth home Edies (who did look fit and well beforehand)



Now that's arty



Princely Hero ove3r the last and on the run in for a well earned win by useful claimer Tom Cannon
The final race was a 2m6 class 5 hurdle and looked a benefit for the apparently well in Sovereign Spirit. It proved to be so but the 4/5 favourite had to work hard for the victory, making all and after a mistake approaching the straight was shaken up and had to battle on gamely to reassert and go on and win. There was a heap of three behind him some five lengths off. I doubt much will come from this and you would say that the winner will find the minimum 10lbs hike he now has to endure will provide a block to subsequent winning opportunities. As such despite his clear genuine nature I mark him as a negative with potential over valued effort today in subsequent markets.

How did they do next three runs over 12 months to a £10 stake?

Helium (P) down £30
2 4 4
Very disappointing annd by the third effort it was clear that his jumping was nowhere near as fluent as earlier in the sason. Shelved.

Roanstar (P)down £10
F
Fell heavily in june and not seen out since so shelved

Sovereign Spirit (N) up £20
1 (5/1) 2 4 0 0 3 0 0
He won next time up which was not good news but then added to the 10lbs increase with another lump to make him 26lbs worse in than when he won at Fontwell. My assessemnt was that he was not up to that and I nhave laid him ever since. I would have continued to do so until he was back at sub 90 but for this excersize I ahve shelved him

Is Catterick Bridge charming or ramshackled? One thing is for sure for me today it was cheap. For less than a fiver I parked my car in the middle of the course and had  a good view of the racing. Getting here was more difficult than it should have been mainly because of traffic delays caused by the Appleby Horse fair. If you haven’t been to the event and you like horses plus you need topping up on heather and pegs by all means get along.

Roughing it during half term is not for the fainthearted that’s for sure, but it has to be said that the behaviour of the kids was spot on so a relaxed day in the early summer sun after a hard week’s graft was very much in order. There is an on old Tote (or is it Betfred on the back of today’s take over news) building which is in fair shape but no use. On the front is the somewhat cryptic slogan ‘a pile in the midst of’ prophetic and strangely melancholy leaving the reader to ponder what type of midst did the pile emanate from and a pile of what ? I remain unsure that the jovial crowd of Teesiders and Tykes had given this as much thought as I have. The facilities in the centre as you would expect for feck all money were hardly The Ritz but there were fun rides for the kids, cheap ice cream to keep you cool and some food. The food was good value for example pie, mash, peas and gravy with a cup of tea for just over a fiver was top value and healthy food as well. That is if there was any left and if you can afford the time to queue as the productivity rate of one customer per ten minutes is inverse to McDonalds who clearly have little to fear on the customer service but at least the meat looked beef and beef as I know it as well. Interesting use of drinks’ cooler to keep fresh air cold whilst drinks remained stubbornly at ambient. The main grandstand and its premium operation could be viewed at a distance and didn’t look all that to be fair coupled with an amount of work on the paddock which gave it a Sofian look in its utilitarian finest. 



Catterick's main stands as seen from the two furlong pole

The racecard was typical Yorkshire staple and clearly this is centrally processed. No mention of foaling dates for the juveniles despite this being Timeform notes perhaps they could engineer a bit of work on this front. There was more promotion of the famous Segway but unlike Thirsk there was no demonstration, surely a slip up there but then it was an afternoon meeting today. The sponsors included a bridal gown business offering ten per cent off with the card which sounds a good deal but not sure of where the wasted material goes and whether you have a choice of what is removed. Whilst the other non industry sponsor was a flooring company although you would never guess it from a confusing advert. One very good point of note was inclusion of a thorough feature on the two Group One events going on today at Epsom. This was very welcome.



The mighty Segway on its way to Olympic status if Yorkshire has its way

This is a tight left handed course with some fairly steep undulations. The straight sprint trip is just the five as six takes in a bend. The chute for the five furlongs is downhill making this a very fast trip and sometimes enterprising sharp types can build up a big enough lead to knock races. As such alongside the conformation makes this a course specialist venue. The track has a few other features including a good sized lake with even an island in it. This probably helps with watering and as such a decent good to firm going was achieved. But as this was a nice hot day I think we quickly got to the firm stage so I would use that as a description from my point of view.



Best racecourse with its own island goes to .....

First race was a five furlong maidens stakes for two year olds. There was one colt amongst the newcomers who is the January foal Ralphy Boy who is from the sprinty ‘silca’ line so could be quite good. He ran green missing the kick but came through strongly to lead inside final furlong and in a close run finish just prevailed. The best of the runners with form was Superplex (April foal) who was a beaten favourite last time out having run a fair second when building on his debut. Today chased leader to lead at the furlong pole and in a ding dong finish was pipped on the line. Still think he will continue to struggle to break duck as lacks stamina and probably ability. Of the others with form Nameitwhatyoulike (February foal) had shown no speed in three runs but pottered on for third place today might be better on a stiffer track and Dolly Danca (May foal) was going the right as had shown speed in all three of her races to date but hasn't strengthened up enough to win yet. The new fillies to racing were Elsie Tanner ( a middle distance bred April foal from the Old Vic line which implies soft ground preference was thrashed today)and a March foal Look Here’s Lady (well backed on debut but failed to sparkle)

A 1m6 selling stakes had a couple which stood out on OR but neither ran that badly today but could not quite match cosy winner White Deer. Beforehand I thought that White Deer was also well in based on the conditions but has only won his four races over around a mile so why after forty odd efforts try this trip? His mark is coming down so maybe looking at a class 6 and remember he has won at class 4 and 5. So staying this trip was a bit unexpected however attracted no bid. Summerlea came out second  best. He had run his best race to date over this distance on firm ground in Ireland and this run emphasised that he is on form again. Capable Guest was not badly in and was running his 98th today which is some going. Had been running pretty well and this is a race he ran very well in last year. Ran prominently but under a hard drive and muddled home in third giving impression begining to lose interest in the game. Silent Lucidity ran better than of late but appeared not to stay this trip. Bring Sweets has had a couple of hurdles efforts including in a good class 3 seller and winning at Wetherby. Has some fair efforts on the fibressand over 1m4 and was third when hampered over course and distance in a three year old seller. Got himself into the race about two out but found trouble when trying to take closer order and was not given a hard time when chance had gone. One to watch. Just Observing has his first go at this trip having run very well recently over 18 furlongs over the hurdles at Market Rasen and with a fixture due there in a couple of weeks could well be lined up for there. Given an easy today pottered around in his own time. The other four year old was Wingnaprayer confirmed that he looks absolutely useless



Field approaches the sharp left hand bend into the straight during the seller

Five furlong handicap class 5. A proper sprint with everyone a distance winner and a fair sprinkling of CD. I think this track brings out specialist speed merchants. Good example of this is the winner Lucky Art who had been mixing turf and sand with success until being run out of it last time out at Beverley. Had run with credit over CD but not having won here was put right by blasting out of the stalls pulling clear never looking in danger today. Kyzer Chief was a remote second but ran with credit again here at a track where he is a  CD a month ago. The rest were well strung out with them all looking outpaced.



Blast our and hang on

Class 4 handicap over six furlongs. The winner was  Roker Park who appeared to be better served by stiffer tracks but has run well at that odd course Chester. Ran well today showing battling characteristics having looked beaten at halfway. Benefited from a good pace today. Only one CD in the field today. Second home was Caranbola who was a decent two year old filly finishing second by a neck in the listed Hillary Needler Trophy at Beverley. Has turned into a Beverley staple of late and might have find this track a little sharp for her today but showed she is good form and returning to Humberside should be noted. Top weight Bonnie Charlie had some excellent Group 3 and Listed form as a two year old and progressed to good runs in the Prix Eclipse and Horris Hill Stakes. This led to a quite high handicap mark but this has bit by bit coming down but first run of the season wasn’t that great but today showed some improvement and if stays on this mark I think he still has a good handicap sprint in him this year probably at a stiffer track over the six. Viva Ronaldo is another to have run with credit in group company as a juvenile. Pedigree suggests he is better over seven and his good run today further emphasises that point. Legal Eagle likes to bowl along and won this race last year off 5lbs less. Good run when last over a sharpish six and better without clobber on. Had a definite chance today but after leading into the straight soon folded.I am not a fan of the cheekpeices on him.



Roker Park makes a welcome return to the winners' enclosure in the feature race of the day

The Im4 maiden stakes attracted some modest sorts. In fact absolutely useless. King Of The Celts was the only possible winner on the basis of consistency, relative ability and stamina to say this trip. Really cannot lose. Won easily but not comfortably. For the record December was clear second best but that is unlikely to result in winning anything.



Only way any of these will win is by hitching a lift
The class 6 handicap over six furlongs is a seller bar the auctioneer. It was won in smooth style by North Central. Was a very interesting runner today  as was favourite being beaten a length in this race last year and was now off a mark 8lbs lower, was improving since seasonal reappearance and last two runs have been encouraging over too short or too stiff tracks to keep weight down. Looked a plot. Babyshambles had form which showed that all six wins had been over five but on an OR of 58 looked attractive and his running style now seems to suit a sharp six. He finished second today behind a handicap good thing was not a disgrace could well follow up in similar event. The pair were pretty well clear.




North central (red) about to be loaded before winning

Class 5 handicap over seven furlongs.It was won well be favourite Powerful Presence who I thought looked poorly handicapped on turf so I got that one wrong. Second was Dhhamaan and when blinkers are applied that seems to do the trick having won exclusively over the seven especially on fast tracks. Third was Thinking who has also won at Catterick  but seems better over the six, a point I think was emphasised today. Nothing stood out with the remainder.



They're out the gate in the last

Notebook
Superplex (N) up £40
2 0 3 0
Has been a well backed lay which in truth has been a real money spinner. In the confines of the rules of this assessment it is to a £10 stake gained off the backer. Season is over so you never know how the winter so I will shelve


Bring Sweets (P) down £30
0 2 0
Not bad next two but hopeless when I saw her at Musselburgh and on that showing was unceremoniously binned.


Caranbola (P)up £56
2 1 13/8 1 5/1
On the basis of this I only backed her at Beverley. It was a highly successful policy with two wins and a second. Season is over but somewhere like Beverley is a specialist track.

Bonnie Charlie (P) down £20
0 3
Requirments were stiffer track over six off today mark or better. Only ran twice and last one was good run at 25/1 only beaten half a length running on. End of season now but if running over 6f is likely to win. Shelved for the purposes of this system


Babyshambles (P) level
2 5
Requirement was a sharp six. Did not have conditions to suit being confined to five. Shelved

Off to Catterick tomorrow. I haven’t been there for a couple of years and although hardly a very inspiring card I am looking forward to having a good look around again.

First race is a five furlong maidens stakes for two year olds. The best of the runners with form is Superplex (April foal) who was a beaten favourite last time out having run a fair second when building on his debut. But still runs green and although will probably prefer this sharp five from a stamina perspective, will need to break sharp to win (given as lay of the day Fav). Of the others with form Nameitwhatyoulike (February foal) has shown no speed in three runs, Dolly Danca (May foal) is going the right as has shown speed in both of her races to date and Duke of Aricabeau (February foal) well bred in comparison to most and looks to be in need of a bit further and this sharp five is unlikely to serve him well. There is one colt amongst the newcomers who is the January colt Ralphy Boy who is from the sprinty ‘silca’ line so could be quite good (1st 11/4). The new fillies to racing are Elsie Tanner ( a middle distance bred April foal from the Old Vic line which implies soft ground preference), a March foal Look Here’s Lady (looks a decent sprinty sort with plenty of listed winning relative so one to watch) and Minniehaha (cheap May foal who is sprint bred).

A 1m6 selling stakes has a couple which stand out on OR but neither looks out of their class. Summerlea comes out best in but this is based on Irish forms and this is his first effort over here after an absence of several months which hints that there has been training set backs in the recent past. He has run his best race to date over this distance on firm ground in Ireland (that means you only sink slowly if you stand still long enough) at Tip. I think he remains best watched. White Deer who is also well in has only won his four races over around a mile so why after forty odd efforts try this trip. Mark is coming down so maybe looking at a class 6 so let’s watch to see if they try to be prominent and clock a time over the mile and then slot in over a mile somewhere in the future. Remember he has won at class 4 and 5. Capable Guest (3rd) is not badly in and is now on his 98th run which is some going. Has been running pretty well and this is a race he ran very well in last year. Perhaps if raced a bit closer to the pace he can win this. Silent Lucidity looks pretty useless and has multiple efforts over this sort of trip without looking likely to win in class six handicaps, has won a seller way back in his three year old season. You can afford to watch this one win whenever that may be. Just Observing has his first go at this trip having run very well recently over 18 furlongs over the hurdles at Market Rasen and with a fixture due there in a couple of weeks could well be lined up for there. However this is a drop in class for him on the level, has run ok in the past but is on the downgrade and probably best kept to the jumps, cannot see him having much of a chance today. Bring Sweets has had a couple of hurdles efforts including in a good class 3 seller and winning at Wetherby. Has some fair efforts on the fibressand over 1m4 and was third when hampered over course and distance in a three year old seller. Not without a reasonable chance and as a comparative youngster at four open to more improvement than most. The other four year old is Wingnaprayer who looks absolutely useless and his pedigree does not scream stayer.

Five furlong handicap class 5. A proper sprint with everyone a distance winner and a fair sprinkling of CD. I think this track brings out specialist speed merchants so looking at the CD first. However Ridley Didley is more at home coming off the pace and has won at several galloping tracks. He is in good form only up a few pounds for that win and clearly cheekpieces helps to settle as he tended to be too free as such is an interesting runner. Kyzer Chief has had a funny career, won over CD a month ago but seems to have been anchored by the four pound rise in the weights. Spirit of Coniston has had 102 runs in his career and is a three time winner here but is a class 6 horse and I think there are better handicapped more progressive horses in this race. Bahamian Ballet is very much a light of former days and it was a long time ago that he won over CD. The youngster in the field is four year old Ignatieff who has fallen to an OR 9 pounds below his last winning rating. This is his first run at Catterick and  previously had won at Mussleburgh and Thirsk so this track may suit him. Has plenty going for him today. Lucky Art[/b[b]](1st 7/2) has been mixing turf and sand with success until being run out of it last time out at Beverley. Has run with credit over CD but has yet to win here. Wicked Wilma has not been that successful off this mark, not run that well over CD and cannot see her winning today.

Class 4 handicap over six furlongs. Only one CD in the field today. Legal Eagle (likes to bowl along and won this race last year off 5lbs less. Good run when last over a sharpish six and better without clobber on. Has a definite chance today but I am not a fan of the cheekpeices on him to be honest). All other runners have won over this trip. Top weight Bonnie Charlie had some excellent Group 3 and Listed form as a two year old and progressed to good runs in the Prix Eclipse and Horris Hill Stakes. This led to a quite high handicap mark but this has bit by bit coming down but first run of the season wasn’t that great and may still be a bit off his best. I think he still has a good handicap sprint in him this year probably at a stiffer track over the six. Viva Ronaldo is another to have run with credit in group company as a juvenile. Appears to have hit hard times as has slumped to battling out middle order handicaps on the sand. Pedigree suggests he is better over seven. Roker Park appears to be better served by stiffer tracks but has run well at that odd course Chester. Excusez Moi is pretty well exposed and looks a bit under the handicapper’s thumb . Not won for more than two years which I doubt is likely to change anytime soon. Caranbola was a decent two year old filly finishing second by a neck in the listed Hillary Needler Trophy at Beverley. Has turned into a Beverley staple of late and might find this track too sharp for her.


The Im4 maiden stakes attracted some modest sorts. The oldest being the six year old mare called Rosie Raymond. She is jump bred and has been hopelessly outpaced in bumpers and  maidens holding no optimism of a closer effort today even in this company. December is of even less potential looking absolutely useless. There are two four year old Jersey Joe (tried in a couple of bumpers and three maidens but hold no promise at all) and Tasman Tiger ( useless). This really leaves the race to the two three year olds. Good Faith (may prefer the extra half mile but has shown such low ability that it is difficult to see the necessary improvement to win) this leaves King Of The Celts (1st)as the only possible winner on the basis of consistency, relative ability and stamina to say this trip. Really cannot lose and any price better than ¼ offers value.

The class 6 handicap over six furlongs is a seller bar the auctioneer. Ursus is the only CD winner in the field (is now back on the 53 mark he won on CD last summer. Has been racing over the sticks in most recent runs without any success. Recent flat form has not been that encouraging). There are two other course winners, Babyshambles (2nd 8/1) (all six wins have been over five but on an OR of 58 looks attractive and his running style now seems to suit a sharp six so has a chance especially as has shown form here) and Red Hot Momma (may well be better over seven). Three other horses have won over six furlongs these are top weight Boy The Bell (is in good form and recent fast finishing over an inadequate five here with only a small penalty makes him a shortlist entry) Welcome Approach (useful on the polytrack and suits a stiff track) and This Ones For Eddy (another who appears to be better suited by stiffer tracks). Of the others North Central[/b[b]](1st 5/1) is very interesting as was favourite being beaten a length in this race last year and is now off a mark 8lbs lower, is improving since seasonal reappearance and last two runs have been encouraging over too short or too stiff tracks to keep weight down. Could well be a plot this. Red Rhythm is in his first handicap for Micky Hammond. Mark of 59 is about right but be cautious as bled last run when odds on.

Class 5 handicap over seven furlongs. We have three CD in the race today. Noufoud (twice a close winner here however return run over CD was very poor and that gives doubts as to being in the right form to win today), four year old Ellies Image (a specialist over this CD but has had three poor runs the first of which there seemed to be something amiss when last running over CD) and Dhhamaan (blinkers applied does the trick and has won exclusively over the seven especially on fast tracks but has not won on anywhere near this mark since doing well in three year old claimers ages ago). Thinking has also won at Catterick  but seems better over the six. There are seven others who have won over this trip. Cyflymder (better on stiff tracks), Island Chief (appears to be better over a mile), Powerful Presence (badly handicapped on turf), Lindoro ( sharp sevens suit and ran well at a stiff track last run emphasising well being not to be lightly dismissed), Gemmas delight (best left as not running that well at the moment) Silly Gilly (about 6lbs too high in the handicap) and Crocodile Bay (probably better suited by a mile). The other two are Our Boy Barrington (much better over the mile) and   Call Of Duty (another miler)

How did we do £10 level (EW IF 20/1 OR HIGHER)and £5 f/c when more than one selected. Balance £145.35 profit on the day


Race 1 1st 11/4 (27.50)
       2 unplaced (-20)
       FC x6  (-30)
       Lay fav (10)
Race 2  3rd fav (-10)
        1x unplace (-10)
        FC x2 (-20)
Race 3  1st 7/2 (35)
        2x unplaced (-20)
        6x fc (-30)
Race 4 1x unplaced (-10)
Race 5 1st 1/9 (1.15)
Race 6 1st 5/1 (50.00)
       2nd 8/1 (-10)
       2xFC 41.55 (202.75)
Race 7 1x unplaced (-10)

_

Please take the trouble to visit Cartmel. Especially if you have a penchant for glam rock as the hits of T Rex, Mud and Sweet were belted out by the bumper car PA in the fairground ad infinitum bordering on ad nauseum. What is it with gypsies and Slade, have they not bought any CDs recently? Or did they buy a couple of cheap four-tracks and the old owner chucked in a couple of ‘tapes’ as a deal-maker. If I hear that Suzi Q was suggesting that we  put the can in the can hey and then try to can the can once more I think I will can the can myself and be done with it. At least good taste was protected by ensuring Paul Gadd didn’t implore a more tactile response than appropriate.

The racing isn’t the strongest but it is not that weak and the track is fantastic in terms of setting and atmosphere. It has to be one of my top ten without a doubt. However if your idea is top class races, where you can clearly see every jump in detail, with plenty of enclosures and grandstands, close to a major city with superb infrastructure links  and a track which is a fair test to all then this isn’t really your scene I am afraid. This is a picturesque racecourse set near the Southern Lakes in old Westmoreland. The roads from the M6 to the course are not brilliant but nowhere near as bad as the impression given to me by those who have been here before. The track is set adjacent to the small village of Cartmel. The village church is almost within touching distance and the whole feel of the day is like a bygone era. There is a country fair atmosphere with the emphasis clearly on the social aspects. The ambiance is generated despite a sizable chunk of the target market being Lancastrian daytrippers and tourists primarily in the area for Windermere’s attractions. 

The race sponsors today were a homage to the entrepreneurial instincts of the local businesses. Why do we not hear more Cumbrian voices on The Apprentice. All we have are the nauseous twining on of estuary edging towards minor public school voices. When a northerner gets onto the show in general the white flag goes up of the ‘do you know what I’ve had enough of these London feckers’ genre. Often the Northern Irish spivs provide as good a reason for partition as seeing the smug face of Alex Salmon before he realises that the independence referrendum  is going to be the SNP death knell either road.

On the business front it was great to see this litagy of sound business ventures willing to cough up some brass for the local horse meeting. This type of sponsorship is exactly what all courses should be aiming at. We had  tourist based stuff from holiday homes, through to local breweries, basic business such as quarrying (who put the money up for the big race of the day so it’s not all doom and gloom in the rock world) and even ice cream. So good to see local success showcased and good effort from the course marketing team to get enough money to support a card of plenty of variation. 




The Paddock

The course is one of the most unique in GB. It is just a bit over  a mile in circumference going left handed with toughish fences and four come in  very quick succession making it a fair test of jumping  ability and horsemanship. It is quite narrow making coming from off the pace a challenge and with tight turns ads to the specialism element. The course has a very long run in which includes a couple of furlongs through the centre of the course to the winning line. This neatly splits the course into a larger segment for the general public and a paddock the entry to which requires  a premium to be  paid. There is a small grandstand in the paddock which has limited access. The entry to the paddock was £18 which was a bit steep and there was an additional cost of £5 to park the car but you could have parked for nothing in the course enclosure and then paid the supplement for the paddock. Running through the enclosures is a burn which has several small crossing bridges which adds to the feel although plenty of youngsters where using this as a playground.The racecard was standard fare really. Food on the course was pretty good I had a very nice steak sandwich and tea for just over a fiver which was good quality if a little on the pricey side.



Everything under one roof ... it’s the future

The Racing

The first race was a fair novice hurdle over17 furlongs which contained a favourite who had a very useful class 3 mark of 119 as a benchmark to measure these against. It was run at a steady gallop. It was won in a battling finish by the Twiston-Davies trained Benbens who had been off the track for 556 days since running well to be second on hurdling debut at Aintree. Clearly based on that form he had enough ability to go close if right, looked a little backwards in the paddock, but racing up with the pace for much thwarted the late effort of Talk Of Saafend. Hurdled well and if coming out of this race ok has the ability to carry a penalty. Probably suits tight tracks. The runner up Talk Of Saafend looked particularly well in the paddock and was held up for much and was produced from two out and was staying on but failed to win by a neck. However I felt that this tricky tight circuit did not truly suit her and if on a more galloping or fairer track (such as Uttoxeter where Dianne Sayer has often placed horses) she can win a novice. Third home was the well backed odds on favourite Beau Fighter who had been bought up from Sussex by top trainer Gary Moore. He looked fit and well in the paddock was restrained throughout the race to be produced about three out and held every chance but did not seem to get on with the course . He was only beaten about three lengths and I would be pretty confident if he turned up at a more galloping track such as Folkestone. If placed in novices confidence would be greater as the current handicap mark looks too high. A further half length back was Grethel who again ran with credit over this course and distance following up a decent second over the weekend. This was a hotter race and showed her limitations but Cartmel suits her and with quite a few meetings still to get through this summer it would be no shock to see her continue to run them close in maidens, maybe if there was one restricted to mares over this trip that would suit nicely. Of the others Parky made much of the running but soon folded, Mutab raced prominently but failed to quicken and Hunters Belt who was fancied a bit in the market but failed to show much promise at all.



No problem for the Twiston Davies combo Benbens

A lower grade stayers hurdle over 2m6 was restricted to maiden mares but was still a reasonable event with a couple of mares rated in the high nineties which would put them in class 4 events. For this to be a good test of stamina the race needed to be run at a good gallop. This was achieved and thus meaning that it was a fair test. In the end they were pretty well strung out with top rated Oh So Beautiful racing prominently and taking it up two out to win by a very comfortable eight lengths. Looked as if she would benefit from this run, thus to win so easily was noteworthy. The second home was Hannah Jacques who whilst a long way adrift did not run too far off her mark. This despite looking a bit worked up in the paddock as was sweating a bit and making a couple of mistakes including an important one at a vital stage in the race three out. We had to wait a long while for the rest to struggle home led by Blazing Bay (who ran in snatches looking beaten by miles but still plodder through beaten mares) followed by Lady Shirley ( led for much but ran out of puff and to my eye did not stay this trip). Of the rest Glancing looked fit but was slightly sweating in the paddock did not hurdle with much fluency, Farfields was a bit disappointing, Bingewood Bunny raced up with the pace but was quickly beaten and the burly Beat In Time was never fluent.



Brilliant backdrop for a geologist as Oh So Beautiful (red) tracks pacemaker en route to victory



Milling aroound before the start of the second

The first chase of the day was a 17 furlong class 5 handicap which was run at no better than a fair pace. This produced a good finish with three separated by less than a length. The winner was Soul Magic coming back to the course having been well beaten here four days earlier. Held up throughout the early exchanges, he was bought through to be in a challenging position two out and just got up late on to thwart big outsider Mysterious World who challenged at the last and as three were battling hard on the run in lack of space hindered all three efforts to an extent (has run his better races around here but this was his first placing in 20 runs). Third home was Colditz who had been a long time off the course, had shown winning form in the past over course and distance. He did stay on well suggesting may be a bit further might suit nowadays. But either way at seven is hardly old and can come back again and win here off this mark. Fourth home Im Your Man was prominent in much of this race but despite looking beaten two out did plug on reasonably well. Of the remainder Balnagore led much but was beaten before three out. The strong favourite Sheriff Hall made mistakes and was soon beaten. Norminster was scrubbed along before halfway. Overlaw was in mid division for much and made several mistakes lacking fluency. Conflictofinterest jumped the first two hurdles poorly and was pulled up soon after that.



Past the church as Soul Magic continues held up at rear

The big race of the day was a class 3 chase over 3m6 worth an added £10,000 for veterans which for such a long distance race was run at a decent clip. The race was largely dictated by Top Dressing who held sway until the run in when collared. I think he did stay the trip and given that the pair were clear this was a fair run. Stagecoach Opal ran in middle of the pack and was produced with a timely run under Jason Maguire to win with a little in hand so might step up on this. Third but well beaten was Oniz Tiptoes who I had seen and picked up on at an earlier meeting. He is often second but is genuine however is very one paced and it is difficult to see him winning to be honest. Petite Margot was another well fancied Twiston Davies runner who ran in snatches and jumped poorly I was pretty disappointed with her run and it could be that she didn’t get on with this track. Dennis The Legend made mistakes which knocked him out of contention. Volcanic Rock had run well before around here and has won but was never in this today at anytime. The main reason for this was that he broke blood vessels.



Good old horse and multiple winner around here Volcanic Rocks 

The hunter chase was run over 3m2. This put serious question marks over the talented What Of It’s stamina attributes. For some reason the jockey decided to push along the pace from the beginning of the race. Jumped pretty well throughout  but once he reached half a mile out folded to be clearly deficient of stamina and maybe somehow finding a 2m4ish race even a handicap off this 106 is worth a look. At eight has time on his side. The race soon then became an entertaining battle between three unfashionably bred german and south African stock. The eventual length winner Amicelli was held up in middle of the pack and produced from three out to get up on the run in (previous Foxhunter winner  and this was a welcome return to form for the 12 year old). Second home was Floreana who was there or thereabouts throughout who jumped much better today. Third was South African Lagosta who looked the winner turning into the straight and may just have found the final two furlongs a bit far and if in a similar grade over the more normal three miles for hunters could go close. Of the remainder Commercial Express was always running in snatches and jumping moderately, the well fancied Sherwoods Folly was held up throughout and was never a factor,  Cluthe Boy was not entirely disgraced to finish fourth but jumped without a great deal of fluency.



What Of It needs shorter than 3m2

A decent long distance class 4 handicap hurdle over 2m6. The race was destroyed by a fine piece of enterprising ridding on previous course and distance winner Rare Coincidence by Alexander Voy who dictated from the from, opened up a sizable lead by halfway, gave his mount a breather which his competitors took as weakening and then kicked on again for a four length victory over Auberge with the pair a very long way clear. The runner up was another CD and this emphasises the course specialism which is often a maxim but at such an odd track as this must always be respected. The only other runner to mention here is the Ferdy Murphy trained second favourite Stand Clear. Off 106 for second handicap effort having won a novice at Sedgefield last season. Looked in very good nick in the paddock and looking the handy type to suit a sharp track a big run could have been anticipated. He did not jump off too well and was hurried along early but was essentially held up. By the time Graham Lee rousted him along into the final mile the bird had flown and in truth wasn’t given too hard a time of it giving the impression would stay further. I am sure given a realistic appraisal of his handicap he will be winning sometime soon.



Racegoer scratches head in time honoured what was he up to pose as Graham Lee helps make the case for a few pounds of Stand Easy’s mark

Final race on the card was a conditional jockeys’ class 4 handicap hurdle over 17 furlongs. It was won by Heart Of Dubai who had run too freely when weakening quickly here four days ago. This time there was no problem under an eight pound claimer Joe Colliver as was restrained just off the pace and produced from two out to win nicely. Big outsider but previous course and distance winner Castletown Boy was a respectful eleven length second and clearly gives best here staying on strongly. He just got the better by a length hot favourite  Ardesia who was another course specialist and set for an eleven pound hike so you have to say that on the bare bones of this run has little chance of winning anytime soon off this 92 mark and rates as a negative. Was caught weakening by runner up on the run in. By the way Endeavour looked a complete beast in the preliminaries, on way to post and whipping around refusing to start at the tapes leave well alone.


Notebook

Talk Of Saafend (P) down £30
3 2 3
Not bad on flat and hurdles with at least one backable (16/1) each way punt. Shelved after three goes

Hannah Jacques (P) down £10
2
Ran second at uttoxeter next run, not seen out since and shelved

Colditz (P)level
4 0 3 1 6/4 2 1 6/4 
View was that 2m4 would be optimal and would not back at 3m and further.
Fair fourth and good third sandwiched a run over too far. Then won two out of three over 2m5. Shelved when sent to race in excess of 3m.

Stand Clear (P) down £30
0 0 0
three poor runs and we have shelved him

Ardesia (N) up £20
0 0
Looks too high in the wieghts but we have now shelved him

Family fun days are yet another of those marketing departments' staples throughout the industry that goes along with Irish Craic night, Ladies Day and the growth of stitching on some tribute acta to the end of a summer's evening card. I generally avoid these like the plague but thought how can my journey be complete without at least one assesssment of the genre. So it was Nottingham during the spring bank holiday which got the decision.

The journey to Nottingham's Colwick Park from the west takes you through part of Nottingham and passes Meadow Lane which is the homw ground of the oldest football league club in existence although the Sheffield club which plays in non league football is older. This makes the trip a bit more congested in terms of traffic on a bank holiday monday than ideal. However the course is set in a fine woodland location giving a rural feel to an essential urban track.

Plenty of free parking which is well marshalled and on a busy day went smoothly. Entry was a reasonable £12. There was plenty for the kids but some was not that great. Face painting has become the norm and kids seem to like this stuff as there was a fair queue. The animal / per feature was a bit low key being a couple of rabbits and  hamsters. However there were a trio of shetland ponies which were a popular feature. The bouncy castles were free and always had a large number of users. All in all it was one of the better family events I have seen and it kept the vast array of kids out of the older grumpier partons' hair (those that had some)

The main grandstand was open to all and this is a good size facility having fair views. The food on offer was a bit more expensive than I would like but I suppose burger and chip at £5 is the mean level these days.



Main grandstand view at Nottingham

Nottingham has a large paddock which did not have a tree in it so this needs some speedy remedial action and perhaps a small bush might do the trick if money is tight. The pre parade ring was inaccessable to all bar the connections. Bit of a detraction as many racegoers like to have a look at them there. The view down the homestraight is a good place to watch the races. When I have been here before you have been able to gain access to nearer the winning post but some ex Stasi foot-soldiers were unaccommidating in this respect.



Paddock view of stands

A very pricey racecard was available at £3. But for that extra ten bob you at least had the two year olds' foaling dates. So well done Nottingham for bucking the trend.

The 62 pages contained a fair amount of adverts but there was a handy page for jockey's autographs and as this was a kids day it is something they like to do. This is one of the few sports where the sportsmen mingle with the crowd with little fluster despite the money being gambled and the occassional mistake from a rider leading to losses. As such children can get close and to be fair the jockeys are very open to sign. It helps to hake the day for the kids in a way. I remember my younger brother doing this and getting some good ones such as John Francombe when he broke Stan Mellor's long standing most wins in a career. The programme also contained some puzzling aspects such as a sudoku with 16 not 81 squares and an obscure picture montage to someone called Paddy which had no connection to any of the race sponsors of the day.

The marketing of the day was well targeted by the team betting a range of local children orientated operations to sponsor and promote their wares was very well done. This is the sort of stuff racing needs to do. You pitch your card to the customers likley to be accessing the event. This is a family event so pitch at family orientated services / products and it helps both organisations. Plus you get a bit fed up with endless sponsorship by industry with long titles for races which contain web address or phone numbers.

In terms of entertainment there was a live band who performed from a balcony overlooking the paddock. It was a classy jazz / blues group with a lady singer who had more than a pleasant voice. Didn't get to find out what they were called as announcement wasn't clear and there was no reference in the racecard at all. However from my point of view this is a big plus over the usual ragtime banjo stuff or poor man's tribute band which is just kareoke with money.



Decent live music for a change

E B F Buddy Redmond Maiden Stakes (Class 5) (2yo) (5f13y) 5f

This looked a fair maiden with some exposed with decent efforts in such as the Brocklesbury and one of the good Chester races the Lily  Agnus. It was won in a stirring finish with three locked together over the winning line. Dark Ages had been gradually improving having been hauled inlate on in similar event at Leicester.She is a May foal f=so a bit immature before and probably a bit weak but looked fine in the paddock and having chased the leaders batteld on well to assert inside the distance and hold on for a slim victory. She is really sprint bred and it is difficult to see her staying further but certainly showed plenty of resolution. Second home was Brimstone Hill who has a little unlucky as was switched to make a challenge around the leading pair about a furlong out and was plugging on in the cosing stages. Quite whether he would have got there is debateable but he showed plenty to suggest he can pick up a moderate maiden. He appeared a bit green in the preliminaries he has run as if a bit weak in earlier efforts but today appeared to be ready for a step up to six furlongs. He looks middle distance bred, has Rainbow Quest in the line which is usually an emphasis for stamina and softer ground so I would say he is one to watch out for on the basis of these facts. The other in the bunch finish was Beau Mistral who appeared a bit edgy beforehand. Has been well held but still running with some credit in conditions events but probably acts as a bit of a benchmark in that her best finishing position was in a moderate maiden auction. She probably ran to her best again leading for much before being held allbeit by around a length when headed around the furlong pole. She probably needs to step down to auction stakes. There were a few of these who were backward including debutante Finbar who ran with great credit despite falling out of the stalls. He got the hang of things to chase uo to he furlong pole where his weakeness kicked in to finish a fair fifth. Pedigree suggests middle distance and is closely relar=ted to Soviet Song who was a great miler from the recent past. Needs more time and once muscled up and matured is sure to pick up a maiden over further.



Furlong out and the three principles have pulled clear with Brimstone Hill (in green) finishing well

Peppa Pig Returns Twinlakes - 2nd August Handicap (Class 6) (0-65, 3yo) (5f13y) 5f

A decent size field for a low grade three year olds handicap producing another tight finish. The winner was Royal Bajan who took it up a furlong out havng held a prominent position along the rails stayed on resolutely for a head victory. Won a maiden at Wolverhampton on debut in March having been unraced as a juvenille and was probably made too much use of in 6 furlongs on earlier start  as pedigree suggests should be at home over further with seven furlongs as optimum. Pineapple Pete was a bit of an unlucky runner up coming from a poor draw to just fail to catch the well handicapped winner. Has been mainly campaigned on the all weather. I think that whilst is on a sound mark of 60/62 he is a difficult ride often hanging and suits these flat galloping tracks. Third home was Hootys Agogo and with such a name this should be the end of his winners' ring entry. Not fantastically bred but does look sprinty. Is on a fair mark given promising debut and plenty of excuses for defeat on second effort. He was then upped to six which would not be to his benefit. Didn't run badly today and can win over five off this 53 mark particularly if put back on the polytrack. Of the remainder Johnny Han**** showed speed suggesting a sharper track might be best. Whilst Indie County carried 3 pounds overweight and despite being tapped for early toe stayed on well. Clearly needs six furlongs, has run well on the polytrack and off 50 is fairly rated at the moment. 



Royal Bajan (the grey on the rails) asserts close home in another close finish



Royal Bajan back into the winners' enclosure



Pineapple Pete was a touch unlucky with good run from poor draw

Fireman Sam Visits Twinlakes - 2nd July Handicap (Class 3) (0-95, 4yo+) (5f13y) 5f


Another closely fought race in terms of the finishing position but the winner was comfortable and had this in bag from a furlong out. This was a decent handicap (which was the top race on the card)and you would think that Solomon could well come in again for a hatrick if he is not clobbered on his 84 mark. He needs fastish ground and is not suited at all by soft ground. Tagula Night might have been well held but did run with credit after being exposed for pace early and then staying on well to be clearly second best to a sprint handicapper at the top of his form. He was making his first outing since the autumn and showed that he is in fine form and if put to six furlongs his current 87 mark does look fair and I would think he can win. The third Rocket Rob also marked himself down as an unlucky loser who would be thought of as a proable future winner. His current mark of 82 looks ready for a win as has come down the weights a ot over the past three months. Although he looks to need further I think he needs a stiff five such as Sandown or Newmarket. Of the other the well backed Secret Millionair ran a mullish race running in and out of it. Has shown a bit of temperament issues before, I had seen him flatter a bit at York earlir in the season and looks one to leave alone. A similar comment could be leveled at fancied Humador who was bother througout preliminaries yet again. He has five wins, 2 seconds in last none runs which led to a creep up the weights from 75 to 93 and now looks to be in the grip of the handicapper at last so would dobt if there is a win coming any time soon. Whozthecat ran to his mark and is a consistant sort best over this five.

]

Into the final furlong and Solomon (yellow) looks to have this in the bag

« 3:20 » Winter Wonderland - Twinlakes 19th November Onwards Handicap (Class 5) (0-70, 4yo+) (1m6f15y) 1m6f

Fine finish to this modest stayers race. Notimefortears was left standing a bit early but stayed on to get up at the post. It was a bit of a shock when reviewing the form. However first handicap run and upped in trip is often a warning sign but it has to be said that there was littler sign that she was anything better than useless and that this test of stamina would be favourable.  This was particularly puzzling when she picked up multiple class 5/6 1m6 winner Dubara Reef (who has been upped a bit in the weights but first run back over 1m6 since february. Outland was off a winning mark and returing to course and distance venue of his last of two wins of a year ago. Was ridden positively and looked to have a great chance a furlong out before being outstayed by the first two home. The warm facourite Rannoch Moor ran no sort of race finishing almost last of the fifteen runners. God only knows why he was favourite other than first run in handicap and upped in trip.  Never looked like he stayed thiw trip and in fact based on pedigree you would have to say that a mile is likely to be his limit. Perhaps a 1m2 seller next?

Doh, The Simpsons - Wheelgate - 27th July Handicap (Class 5) (0-75, 3yo) (1m75y) 1m½f

This was a modest race but was run at a decent clip with Bertie Blu Boy taking a firm hold. This underpins the fact that the winner Shadow Catcher thoroughly sees out this mile trip as took it up before the furlong pole and galloped on strongly to win. This was his first effort over the mile and this based on his pedogree is probably the limit of stamina. His 72 mark is now likley to be under scrutiny after two out of last three handicaps have been won. Second home Feerruccio could not get to grips with the winner in the last 100 yards when joining issue. I think he could be better aimed at seven based on his pedigree. So if being allowed to make all based on a lack of a bit of toe then racing much more prominently may well be worthwhile. Urban Kode was another to go into the notebooks, didn't seem to handle these easy bends which suggest maybe a straight mile beneficial. Was running all over the place for Cathy Gannon (who has won on him in past) and you have to say that the visor has not had the desired effect, has won without it so perhaps best didtched. Not on a bad mark at the moment of 62. There was yet another disappointing and warmish favourite in Matavia Boy. Comprehensively beaten but was reported to have broken blood vessels. 

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Bertie Blu Boy leads the milers into the straight

Timmy - Wheelgate - BAAAAAA 15th August Maiden Fillies' Stakes (Div I) (Class 5) (3yo) (1m75y) 1m½f

The Godalphin trained Paoletta was backed at 2/5 favourite on the basis of some encouraging form on debut second at Windsor. However again held every chance without quickening. This was a fair maiden being a bit quicker than the other division and the preceeding handicap. But I would say this one will have to go further in trip to break her duck . I would not back her with confidence over a mile. The winner Thistle Bird stayed on resolutely and looks better over 1m2 based on this run and her pedigree. The pair were well clear of the rest headed by Totheendoftheearth  who ran an encouraging debut to show some pace but weakened in the final 200 yards. Another to look promising on her debut was the Hamdan owned Bashasha who ran very green. Extremely well bred and will be well suited by this mile and if not overtried can easily pick up a maiden.



Never back odds on in a fillies maiden part one

Timmy - Wheelgate - BAAAAAA 15th August Maiden Fillies' Stakes (Div II) (Class 5) (3yo) (1m75y) 1m½

Never back odds on in a fillies maiden part two. These fillies maidens turned into a benefit for the bookies when another well odds on shot (this time Focal at 1/2) was beaten in a photograph. The Cheveley Park / Stoute combination had run with some promise on her debut and this time really looked like she had the race in hand but was mugged on the line. The winner was debutante Graceland who looked well held two out but just managed to rally well and pick up the good thing. Deck Walk was never in the hunt and plugged on without getting too hard a time of it to finish third. She is particularly well bred, sure to do well over a mile and comes out well in this race. Of the rest Eraadaat came out of this well. She was very green looked in need of the run and is nicely bred for this mile

Ben & Holly - Wheelgate - 16th October Handicap (Class 6) (0-65, 4yo+) (1m2f50y) 1m2f

This was a seller in all bar name with top weight off 61 and beaten ten lengths into the bargain so there is little to see coming from this in the future. The winner Guga was about a stone down from a December high. This was his first win in 15 efforts when winning a claimer. Poached a massive lead and by the time the rest woke up he was home. Unlikely to be so lucky again. You would have to say that this may not have been James Doyle's finest ride as he held up the favourite Transfer and produced him far too late. This would have been the final straw of defeats for the backers I am sure. His handicap mark is miles off his peak and I would say that if still off 50 and perhaps running in  a class 6 around 1m2 to 1m4 would be very useful for him.

Notebook

Brimstone Hill (P)
0000P1 33/1 up £270
I had been waiting for him over a longer trip so backed hime first time over a mile but saddle slipped and he was pulled up. Next time out was over the mile at 33/1. Left him at that.

Indian County (P)
01  22/1 up £210
I thought he would stay OK but found 6f too stiff. He was then down effectively 6lbs next run on the AW over 5f and got home by a length with first time tstrap. Left him alone then


Tagula Night (P)
000001 11/1 up £60
He ran three times poorly when poorly hcapped at or above 87. mark dropped to 82 on soft ground came in at 11/1 so closed on him

Bashasha (P)
0 down £10
Another poor run suggests I overrated her on her connections rather than her ability so closed

Deck Walk (P)
01 16/1 up £150
won next time out at 16/1 looking an awkward ride so closed on her from there

Transfer (P) 
1 100/30 1 4/9 up £28
quickfire double and then up a stone so left him alone from there

£708 UP

Lovely Lingfield they used to call it and I have to say that this is a great and spacious middle ranking course that is a really relaxed environment engendering an enjoyable visit. It has been very well redeveloped since I was last here back in 1999 with plenty of places to sit down, very decent food at reasonable but not cheap prices and overall good value for £15 allowing pretty well unrestricted access to all areas. Thrisk executive ought to get off their tyke rumps and visit a few places like Lingfield and see how to treat your customers.

More to follow

Lingfield is a tight triangular course especially the all weather which sits inside the turf circuit. This has often led to the conclusion that the draw favours high numbers who have the benefit of the inside lane so to speak. However today’s results showed no bias whatsoever. In fact the main feature to consider is that  big fields lead to scrimmaging, trying to make all can lead to front runners cutting their own throats and coming around the outside for a late run means forfeiting lengths. On balance if there are more than six runners it looks like lottery territory!

Here is my view of the racing

LINGFIELD MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB MEDIAN AUCTION MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 6)(2yo) Winner £2,047 7 runners 5f Standard

A not bad set of two year olds for a class 6 auction. They went a fair gallop. Bit of a crosswind throughout the day but nothing which had a major impact on the racing. Weather was very nice and sunny. Going clearly standard based on the times.

RED SOCKS modest pedigree. Shown a little promise in maidens on the all weather but is exposed and not particularly good. Still looks a bit backwards in condition, raced in blinkers for the first time which didn’t really do a lot more for him. A fair third today holding every chance without really looking like the winner.
COURTLAND KING couple of promising runs out of five outings including bit unlucky second on the polytrack at Wolverhampton Buick booking is interesting. Ran a very decent race from a poor box and stayed on in eye catching manner. Clearly second best but appears to be one who could stay further soon
CALENDER KING Channon entry and debutante pedigree sprinty and some fair relations in amongst them. Looked a nice fit sort but was edgy and green in the paddock. Missed the kick and took a while to understand what the feck was going on but once he did stayed on well. One to keep an eye on
MALTEESE AH Fahay debutante and some precocious types in the family. Looked particularly well for her debut and was very calm in the preliminaries. Pinged out showed excellent speed until coming to the end of her tether at the furlong pole. Surely a maiden against her own sex perhaps over five will see her in the winner’s spot. Is a positive
MULTI BLESSING Improved a bit on debut when third but was hopelessly outpaced and looked very poor. Stepped up on those efforts and looked in good nick and slightly sweating in the paddock to stay on in resolute style for a meritous victory. Not sure if he will go on for this but can get a mark now and enter nurseries.

EDEN BROOK SELLING STAKES (CLASS 6)(3-5yo) Winner £1,706 5 runners 1m Standard
Crosswind conditued and the pace was no more than steady

BROUGHTONS DAY steps down to selling class today and returns to a mile having been beaten in class 6 over 7 furlongs last run. Led for much and had every chance but was not good enough for this lowly contest.
CHARLES SMIRKE  only wins out of 33 outings came twice over course and distance. However has been tried out of desperation in the full range of stuff  and has been recently beaten when tried in  claimer / seller levels. Well backed in seller today and despite looking a bit podgy (probably sort that carries a bit of condition even when fit) won with an amount in hand. This highlights not his own potential but how moderate this mob are.
BETTER SELF is well suited by polytrack but has yet to win at Lingfield on it. Has tumbled down the weight recently and for a three year old is now on a very attractive mark which surely is not going to be compromised by winning today (60 and has recently won off 71 on sand). Ran as if preservation of her handicap mark was the number one priority and stayed on to suggest is plenty fit enough to do herself justice when required.
ILISSOS what’s going on a Noseda three year old in a lowly Lingfield seller? Breeding (a $40,000 purchase from a decent US line) suggests mile as optimal, has been racing at much longer trips and fading. Looks classic gamble territory and well treated by conditions based on OR. He was being triad in a tongue tie and I was looking to see if Casey Jones was the jockey based on the vulgar grunting emanating from this beast. He had his tongue hanging out all the time, it looked to have been bitten a bit in the race and I felt he looked a bit uncomfortable in the contraption. Fair second but easily held despite having a bit of luck in running when a split opened up a furlong out.
JACKIE LOVE breeding suggests 5 to 6 furlongs, has been raced with little success including in seller of seven so why bother racing over a mile? Outsider. Ran with credit and took the bends better than the rest which enabled her to have every chance two out. Is she any good? I doubt it but  you’d like to see her run as often as possible in the summer if only for the chance of her a sneaky glimpse at her trainer’s rather eyecatching silhouette.

NEIL AND LIZ MUNCEY 25TH ANNIVERSARY CLASSIFIED CLAIMING STAKES (CLASS 6)(3yo+ 0-70) Winner £1,706 10 runners 7f Standard

I CONFESS  one of those seller / claimer fixtures who have a very useful strike rate. Is well treated again and the seven furlongs on the sand suits him fine as does a trip to the Channel Islands where he also managed to win recently. Had a bit of a battle of it today when should have hacked up. Had a difficult draw but may need a bit of rest.
LOVES THEME  a three year old who is not badly treated by the conditions today. Found handicaps difficult but a slip down to claiming over 6 furlongs led to a win last time. Not certain to stay this trip and was hauled in late today for a fair second. This is her sphere but maybe six furlongs may just be a reasonable consideration.
ABRIACHAN looked ok in the paddock and his handler clearly had other things on his mind as appeared to be constantly on his mobile phone, hardly professional I would say. Ran a good race today despite some early scrimmaging stayed on for third less than a length behind the winner. A real in and out performer who you can afford to see win.
KIRSTY’S BOY Irish raider and attracted a bit of support. Looked like the winner two out but folded tamely suggesting that six furlongs may be optimal


MARSH GREEN HANDICAP (CLASS 5)(3yo 0-75) Winner £2,388 14 runners 7f Standard

EL DJEBINA Mark Prescott with Seb Saunders up first time out in handicap with a three year old’s third run. Won on debut and entitled to be rated 69 on the basis of that. Bit unlucky and probably saw trip out on first effort at seven on the polytrack. However 75 looks toppy unless there was a deal of progress from debut. Looked a bit edgy in the parade and is  a leggy sort who may well have been unsuited by turn here at Lingfield. I think needs a drop in weights and a more galloping track which Southwell is the best all weather version
DUNSEVERICK decent miler pedigree but very green at the moment and handicap mark looks spot on accurate. Greeness came into account again as got involved in the early scrimmaging of a particularly rough-house of a race. In the circumstances ran a decent race to be a close up third.
AQUILIFER recent course hatrick scorer including over seven. A rise from winning mark of 66 to today’s of 75 puts him in with little chance on the book. Caused quite a bit of the bother today adn race best forgotten really.
CEFFYL GWELL it would be remiss not to have a peak at a Hannon / Moore combination’s prospects. Must be suited by seven as runs on over six and was only beaten by well fancied stablemate last run over 7 furlongs when pair were clear. Looked fit and well. Held up in mid division early and was knocked about a bit on the first turn. Got back into the race and appeared to have a winning position two out and despite getting to the winner 100 yards out could not maintain progress having to settle for second. Seven furlongs is maximum trip and needs to be ridden a little more prominently. Having said that hold up tactics would have worked fine today if a clear run had been gained or even just an event free journey. Surely must win again off this 75 mark against three year olds?
FIRSTNIGHT had been highly tried as a juvenile and now a step up to seven which on pedigree appeared to be suitable.  Prominent throughout and outstayed Ceffyl Gwell where his stamina came into prominence. Seven furlongs is clearly his favoured trip

B W STRAGGLERS HANDICAP (CLASS 6)(3yo 0-55) Winner £2,047 14 runners 7f Standard

LOVE NEST has been placed exclusively to seven furlongs in maiden company and never looks like seeing the trip out. Pedigree suggests 5 or 6 furlongs but running on strongly having been outpaced in the main suggests that he does suit seven. Not a bad run for a seasonable debut and better likely to come
SILCA CONIGLIANO Channon entry maiden after 17 runs tells its own story. First effort over seven. Pedigree and running style suggests best chance is over a stiff five or soft six and definitely not this trip. Had a messy run as was held up probably in keeping with his stamina limitations over this trip. As with most big field races at Lingfield there are always a few hard luck stories and certainly Silca Conigliano came into that band today. However showed some pace once produced but by then chance had gone and he pottered in his own time for a not uncreditable sixth.
KOHA breeding suggests that this trip is ok and likely to stay a mile. Well beaten most runs to date but cost an awful lot of money to be a plater. Raced with every chance until completely outpaced when leaders quickened three out. Looks useless
LADYONTOP ran a game race to get up close home to haul in long time clear leader. On the upgrade and could easily follow up on this win if rated on the bare bones of it
GOLDERN COMPASS kicked clear two out and looked all over the winner until stamina gave was and was worn down by the gutsier filly Ladyontop, Bit of money for her today from 12/1 down to 7/1 and ran by far her best race to date. Next mark will be interesting as is 43

LINGFIELD PARK COUNTRYSIDE EVENING 4TH JUNE HANDICAP (DIV I) (CLASS 6)(4yo+ 0-60) Winner £1,706 10 runners 1m Standard

BELLE PARK An OR of 52 suggests a near winning mark. Has been seen best on turf and although a wolvo winner I am not convinced suits the sand. Has won and run well at Chepstow. Today’s run again showed that either track or surface is not ideal but his fourth place was promising so watch put if placed in similar event at Chepstow anytime soon
HAULIT still a maiden and seems stuck on current mark despite being comfortably beaten over this trip on many occasions including here.  Another fair effort on the sand when a plugging on third today. You would have thought might suit a bit further
HECTON LAD  goes very well on sand particularly poly and having won over surface and distance was clobbered by the handicapper up 10 pounds may just be in his grip. However a battling performance today shows that even off this relatively lofty 57 mark has the ability and tenacity to be successful. Genuine sort
INDIAN VIOLET certainly suite a mile here on the sand but handicap mark a bit high
CAVALRY GUARD led from about 4 out until 2 out when faded rapidly suggesting that either can’t be assed any more or doesn’t stay. Probably more the former than the latter
BYRDINHAND  may not have been particularly well suited by racing over a mile but ran with credit showing sound stamina but not enough speed when a fair second today. Would suit a maidens race or claimer over slightly further eg im2

LINGFIELD PARK COUNTRYSIDE EVENING 4TH JUNE HANDICAP (DIV II) (CLASS 6)(4yo+ 0-60) Winner £1,706 10 runners 1m Standard

MNARANI  returns to GB after a fruitless sourjon to Ireland stays the mile and has run ok on the polytrack. This mark of 48 is an all time low for him and surely if there was ever a chance to break the duck it is today. My review of the race came to fruition as he won with ease. A hold up horse who needs a lot of restraining to be seen at advantage. Could suffer and win if going a bit further up the weights.
CLEARING HOUSE was the only other runner to emerge with any credit. A hold up horse who plugged on well to be a clear but still detatched runner up. Is in good form at the moment.

How did they do next three runs to a £10 stake (each way 10/1 or more)

CALENDER KING (Positve) down £20
0 0
Raced OK next but finished last on final outing and ran as if someting was a bit wrong so shelved

MULTEESE AH (Positive) down £30
3 3 0
Next two runs were good each way efforts at 10s and 16s. However then went handicapping and it was clear that the 74 mark was way too much and she was shelved

CHARLES SMIRKE (Negative)level
Not seen out since so shelved

EL DJEBINE (Positive) down £30
0 0 4
Proved to be pretty well hopeless and shelved after three efforts

CEFFYL GWELL (Positive) down £20
0 0
Not bad next run but competely tailed off after that and was shelved

BELLE PARK (Positive) up £45
3 4 1 13/2
Ran very well next runs being sound each way value at 16/1. Then came in at 13/2 so three runs is enough due to go up in the weights so shelved

Thirsk was a bit of a disappointment. I am not sure whether I was just in a bad mood or it had been a long day but whatever it was I left the course not being convinced this was the best I had been to.

The visit started off with a not completely clear entry to the course car park. Having wanted to go in the centre and do a bit of work from that location it transpired that I would have to pay £24 to do so. I decided against that and instead opted for the public car park opposite the grandstand. The entry was £14 which compared to Southwell’s £11 for about the same standard of racing was a bit on the high side.

The overall facilities are very dated once you get in with investment apparently only on a flash building for the members. This is a recurring theme at Thirsk with plenty of areas allocated exclusively for those who buy a members’ badge or are annual members. The rest of the facilities are very basic, a small cafe, a drinking hall with few places to sit and a couple of decent grandstands. However to be in the members a collar and tie is a specific requirement. Whilst I am sure upholding standards is important the differentiator is arcane.

But wait there are more rules, you cannot take food or drink anywhere other than some corralled areas.  Corralled is a specific and accurate term with riot barriers bought in to restrict foot traffic flows and thus enabling inspection and isolation of miscreants. Therefore the joys of sitting on the mastic covered concrete steps of the viewing area, munching on a hot dog whilst slurping some tea was banned by the executive and implemented with the sort of under orders regimentation one may have associated with jackboots.

Anyway there was entertainment of sorts to compliment a rather lazy card.  By lazy I mean this should have been an all weather or afternoon meeting fodder not when there is the likelihood of a decent crowd on a spring evening who may return if they liked what they had seen. There seems to me to be a trend to stuff evening cards with low grade racing in the same way as you see on a greyhound BAGS special. Perhaps a seventh race would not have asked too much or a bit of mix in the card of a 2yo seller, maidens stakes and four handicaps.

Additional fun was arranged with falconry (although I never saw one of the five birds of prey do anything more than have a disinterested pick at some seeds) of the stationary / perched on a glove for an hour then safely bundled back into the van variety. Also there was a Jazz Band to provide some summertime carefree music of the 'you are at an event so enjoy it' genre. There were few takers on the adjoining wooden windswept seats who did not seem to be enjoying to ambiance complimented by having their coffee blown over their laps and tomato sauce smudging their Raceing Posts. In comparison to Wincanton’s Wurzals about as inspiring to the locals as I image watching Britain’s Got Talent is to them.

The racecard was functional  and the ubiquitous ‘ Racing Phrase Book’ indeed had the often bandied about term ‘monkey’ explained to the non-cognisant. Vital stuff as all experienced racegoers mysteriously are overheard saying ‘Just seen Prince Faray lump a monkey down’. There is also inclusion of the term for £25 to accommodate the low at heel but for completeness where oh where is Booby Moore, Lady Gadiva and Sov when you need them explaining.

I missed the big event of Segway Racing (yes a mystery to me as well) down the final furlong of the course which took place a full ninety minutes before racing. What do you think the crowd is likely to be drawn from for evening start at half six? Yes people coming here from work likely to be arriving in the 5.30 to 6.30 slot. Did this level of organisation lead to an empire or did it lead to the rather disastrous white rose variety of heavy armed struggle.

The track is an oval with fair bends. It is essentially an easy to sharp track not really favouring any specific type. The draw favours low numbers on the round course but on the sprint track whilst a standside therefore high numbers draw may pn the face of it look promising it does get a bit congested and middle numbers appear to have a touch of a bias. Tonight the results largely underpinned this conclusion. The ground was fast tonight and I would call it Firm. The paddock has a rather splented old established tree in it with red leaves (whatever that is I have no idea) which offered shade for the few. Slightly disappoiting to the Plumpton SAGA bustrippers but at elast there was one.

So to the racing.

7 furlong maiden stakes which was run at a good clip given the very windy conditions. The provided a headwind for the first three furlongs and a tailwind for the homeward led.

FAIRY MIST Well beaten in a bumper on debut back in Feb. An expensive 180k purchase who is mile bred from a family with group winners. Looked in good condition in the paddock and although not in a prominent position for much stayed on well in eye catching style to finish fourth. The sooner he steps up to a mile the better and if he does could well win and he rates a positive as a consequence.
SELF EMPLOYED ran with promise twice as three year old when a bit green but appears to suit seven furlongs. Modest breeding. Ran in mid division for most and was produced from two out but by that stage the leader had poached a big lead that with the tailwind blowing Self Employed had no hope of pulling back. I think he was clearly better than the rest on this running, may well have hauled the winner in given different weather conditions and therefore can be backed with some reliability if meeting similar conditions again and rates a positive.
BRIO fair run on debut over 7 seven furlongs at Warwick. Decent pedigree with group winners including Italian Oaks. Looked pretty ordinary in the paddock and was never a factor. Bit disappointing
MAXIMILLION BOUNTY showed much improved form on second run when still a little green to be second over course and distance in maiden where the winner’s mark would translate to 79 giving him a good chance to pick up this sort of race. However having raced with every chance did not pick up when urged two out and was comfortably held.
MUFFIN MCLEAY appears to be better suited by a mile rather than this seven, was fancied in the ring but failed to catch the eye during the race ORBIT THE MOON well bred middle distance colt showed improved form but still modest on second run. May well need quite a bit further. However given the testing weather conditions jockey Sean Levey made maximum advantage and poached a bit lead coming into the straight and never looked in the slightest danger as ran on in very good style. Capable of winning over a mile and as this was not a bad maiden could be able to step up to handicapping given a mark of say 75
SPES NOSTRA looked very difficult ride when very green on debut middle distance and may be seen to better effect over sticks. Again ran no kind of race today EASTWOOD HO thrashed on debut over 9 furlongs and will be better over further. Pulled very hard and gave himself little chance. JORDANS EXPRESS modest breeding may prove better over hurdles. Slowly into stride soon dethatched and hopelessly last
STORM BLUE very nicely bred for 7 furlongs to a mile was cheaply bought. On her toes and was a problem loading, although a good sort she appeared backward and relatively weak. Better to come in time and stayed on through a couple of beaten horses to give sign of a little promise LANGTOON LASS bred to go over the sticks with the useful 2m4 hurdler Galshan in the family. Appeared a tetchy sort but stayed on ok.
MUNAAS DREAM fairly modestly bred filly and easily beaten tonight

6 Furlong two year old seller was a very poor seller with all under pressure from a long was out, much wandering around in the strong wind which not had a crosswind feel to it.

CARRIEANNS BOY Feb22 not brilliantly bred but there is plenty of pace in the family. Looked burley and in need of the run which was pretty well how it transpired although did not look keen to race and maybe completely useless
MANDERSTON Feb 13 has had three runs and not really showing great progress not responding to driving on one occasion. You would think that pedigree suggest middle distance. Appeared a bit spare and weak but didn’t run too badly being up there for a good while but meandered a bit in the closing stages causing problems and also got hampered.
MYSTAKE April 28 sprint bred and this six furlong trip may stretch stamina and is a late foal. Small weak filly who was always behind and makes no appeal
ARCTICACITY March 16 dropping down to seller and over six furlongs following promising second to useful Bannock who has been a winner since and rated 90 modest breeding but showed see out the six. Managed to just about get her head in front, but considering she looked all over the winner two out appeared to be touch reluctant and under strong driving did not really impress. She rates a negative. She must have impressed her owner though who had to pay the commission on seven and a half grand (fifteen monkeys I suppose the racecard phrase guide would say) to buy her in at the subsequent auction.
CIARA BO April 14 showed improve form when dropped to seller when second running on when I saw her at Redcar in April to finish second. Breeding is good and 6 to 7 furlongs at two year olds is ideal. She ran a poor race today despite looking fit and well in the paddock. She was noted as being cajoled early on and soon dropping out of it.
INDIANLIZZY April 15 breeding and running suggests she is very moderate. She showed a little promise today being prominent fading a bit out of it to be fourth. However she is still a bit green and wandered about a bit close home to suggest some headgear may be appropriate
JAQI UZZI April 22 some promise on debut but breeding nothing to get excited about as was her running. Only note I made was that she acted up in the pre parade ring and was very late into the paddock.
MAD FOR FUN Thrashed on both runs, is a big backward filly but ran with credit to be third having been prominent for much of the race
PINT SIZE Apr 5 cheap sprinty type who stepped up on her debut effort to push the favourite a long way to finish a close up runner up. This was encouraging and maybe a slip to five furlongs and being kept to selling company may lead to a victory.

Six furlongs class 4 handicap for three year olds. The wind had begun to ease off a bit for the remainder of the card but still a bit breezy

TAKE YOUR PARTNER Unbeaten in four similar efforts has gone up from 60 to 83 may be asking too much to transfer success from sand to turf and was soon beaten tonight
FIELDGUNNERKIRKUP Kept improving as a two year old and ended with six furlong maiden stakes win at stiff Pontefract. Everything points to him being suited to 1 mile plus so difficult to understand running tonight over this shorter trip and despite getting to dictate pace was caught flatfooted and one paced by the winner. However it was an encouraging run and is stepping up in trip appears to be on a handy mark so one to keep an eye on.
ONELADYOWNER Still appears fairly treated as only up 5 pounds on previous winning mark and in fact was unlucky on last run on present mark when badly hampered at tricky Chester. Tonight was prominent in the early stages but was quickly beaten at the furlong pole. I would say five is his best trip
ANOTHER WISE KID is up nine pounds from first win and five pounds for most recent win. I would say needs a stiff five or an easy six and therefore not ideally suited by tonight’s conditions. He held every chance at the furlong pole but just failed to see out the trip to finish fourth confirming the view regarding stamina. Acted up in the paddock before the race.
DREAM CATCHER has some really top class French two year old form but has not really kicked on since export to GB has yet to race off this preferable six furlong mark and is now 10 pounds off original handicap rating. Ran on strongly to win despite having to be switched to find a gap around a furlong out. Can go on from this if not harshly reassessed on his current 75 mark.
BLACK ANNIS BOWER clearly better suited by soft ground. On a poor mark of 73 for turf and surely a run over six furlongs on sand off that mark of 58 would be sensible. No real show tonight
LADY ROYALE has been hit since five furlong handicap class 3 win which led to a rating rise from74 to 80. Has been well beaten in conditions races since and this level tonight is quite a step down but there is little to support being able to win off 80 and in case looked in the paddock as if the run would have done her good
INDIES LAD is on a good mark of 78 having won off 82. Didn’t completely convince that he stayed six furlongs last run and showed little to suggest he fully stayed tonight.
CAPTAIN KOLO had been targeted at 5 furlongs and on pedigree it appeared that a step up to an easyish six would be beneficial. Finished third which was a fair effort however rolled about a bit late on impeding the winner slightly which suggests that he should be aimed at five as stamina limitation was slightly exposed.

Class 4 One and a half mile  handicap for 4 year olds and over

SIRGARFIELDSOBERS was clearly thought promising by Aiden O’Brian when trained in Ireland. Has shown limited potential since coming to GB but not enough to suggest that he can win off this mark of 80. Looked in fine nick in the paddock despite lengthy lay off. Attempted to make most and ran a fine race being picked up inside final furlong but stayed on resolutely to suggest distance is right and this run should put him spot on next outing. Positive about this one 
DAAWEITZA a very experienced old lag but has only won over this distance in a poor sand race at Southwell. I doubt he really stays and too much weight as 77 mark based on current level of form. Still looked to be carrying a bit of condition and was quickly put away tonight
GREEN LIGHTNING has won at galloping tracks such as when successful over 1m4 at Newmarket (no mean feat) off 78 and is now 75 but is running very poorly at present. However showed improved form in blinkers to finish staying on at one pace to be third behind two decent handicappers in this class. H e has an odd running style which gives the impression as being ungenuine but I thought he is just a one paced plodder who does put it in.
WAR POET looked fit and well being bought with a well timed run to pick long term leader up and go on for a convincing win. However he may pay for this with the handicapper and his 74 mark could be decimated. It is worth remembering that the second needed the run and the third is a bit one paced so I think he will find following up difficult.
PERTEMPS NETWORKS is on a turf mark eight pounds more than he has won under in the past, Will stay 1m4 and is suited by soft ground. Better over hurdles but ran OK given that tonight’s fast ground would have been a negative and without being a serious threat from the mile post.
BEAT THE SHOWER eight pounds higher mark than he has won under before and may well need further as appears suited by 1m6er advantage was outpaced throughout tonight
PUY D’ARNAC thorough stayer who needs 1m6 and soft ground to be seen at his best and showed bell-being with a creditable fourth holding every chance when produced about three out but could not get a blow in on the winner.

Five furlongs Class 5 handicap for three year olds and over

FOREIGN RHYTHM  acts on any ground has won over 5 and 6 furlongs when in the 46 to 67 band and is at 67 at present. Speed for the first three furlongs and then dropped out of it rather tamely
BEAUTY PAGENT entered five furlongs tonight despite all previous form being over six furlongs for his handicap debut which is interesting. Made strong favourite and out battled runner up for close victory. Best clearly over five
OONDIRI is a fast ground five furlongs horse with all wins when off 57 and is on 61 at the moment. Missed the break a bit and then made a lot of use of to get into a challenging position before weakening into fourth. Needs a smart start to hold chance in future as barely gets the five in any case from this evidence
CRIMSON CLOUD form points to the fact that he is much better served by running on sand and although finished third was well held tonight
CRYSTALLUS continually the bridesmaid as clocked up fourth successive runners up position. Good run for a three year old filly at this stage of the year but you have to start doubting her resolution after this ‘battle’ one to be a bit wary of although clearly has a bit of talent there.

I mile handicap class 5

ELIJAH PEPPER turf wins have only come at six furlongs and has shown a liking for polytrack looks very high in the weight at the moment. Slowly out but ran ok finishing a creditable third suggesting that a return to sand may be rewarded despite high mark
VITO VOLTERRA four pounds up for recent seven furlongs win although has won over a mile he does look a real seven furlong competitor. He was ridden without a lot of restraint and the jockey lost his stick. As a consequence of both he tired late on and rolled about a bit which some steering aids might have corrected. Perhaps some stronger handling or allowed to bowl along over seven will see him to better effect. Either way he is clearly in good heart and on a decent mark so one to keep an eye on in lowly handicaps or claimers
QUITE SPARKY maiden but has looked a true miler based on running style. Found plenty of traffic problems tonight as is a bit of a hold up horse but managed to find his way to win by a head. Good effort this and clearly best suited by a mile.
FAZZA has won last two efforts over a mile which is optimum trip but has been upped six pounds for those successes and although on the premises and finishing fourth looks a bit anchored.
ROCK N ROYAL Pontefract win over six furlongs some time ago and is tumbling down the ratings but without any sign of impending success as is usually hammered. Tonight was no exception although showed some early speed
COME AND GO has won over course and distance when off a mark four pounds higher than tonight. Looked in need of seasonal debut and is expected to strip much fitter as a consequence however weakened out of the icture quickly once chance had gone. A touch disappointing as expected to get a bit involved tonight.

My first and only until today's visit to Thirsk was on the Saturday 2nd June 1979

HORSERACING fans are under starter's orders for a tribute to the sport at a show that has opened in the region. The World of James Herriot museum, in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, is staging an exhibition of the history of the sport of kings. The exhibition, called From the Horse's Mouth, is being held to mark the 150th anniversary of the Kilburn White Horse.Racing memorabilia, on show until November, includes a race card used by the future King Edward VII.Horseracing fans will be able to trace the sport in Thirsk from 1612 - when King James I gave it his support.Punters can then follow its route to local landowner Frederick Bell, who gave part of his lands for a racecourse in the 19th Century.Despite that generous offer, horseracing in Thirsk was flagging towards the beginning of the 20th Century.It took a racing visit by Fred Archer, a famous jockey of the day, to revive interest.Royal patronage for Thirsk came with a visit by the Prince of Wales and future King Edward VII in 1895. The visit also saw a new royal pavilion built at the racecourse, which graced the site for the next 30 years.In 1940, the famous St Leger race was run at Thirsk after it had been moved from Doncaster.Thirsk was one of several racecourses that hosted the St Leger event during the Second World War.The race was won by legendary jockey Gordon Richards, riding a horse owned by Aga Khan called Turkham.Thirsk Racecourse closed in 1941 until 1946 while an Army camp was placed on the site.Donald Sinclair, who is better known as Seigfried Farnon in All Creatures Great and Small, was once the official course vet - as was author Alf Wight who achieved fame writing as James Herriot.As part of the exhibition, racehorse trainer and author Jack Berry gave a talk.

How did they get on based on £10 stake (each way if 10/1 or greater)

FAIRY MIST (Positive) level
0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 7/1
Left first two as over less than the mile. Started hcapping off 60 (a tough high) at mile plus and that's when started backing. Gradually dropped diown the weights when running over too far. Eventually got to 60 first effort over stiff carlisle and 9f which was too much of a stretch. Dropped back to a mile on an easier course and bingo. Dropped like a hot spu after

SELF EMPLOYED (Positive) level
Not run since so shelved now

ARSTICACITY (Negative) up £30
4 0 0
Hopeless since and not seen since aug. Dropped now


SIRGARFIELDSOBERS (Positive) down £50
0 3 0 4 3
Clearly just a one pace old nag. I stuck with him for five runs rather than three which was in hidsight mad.


WAR POET (Negative) up £20
2 0 0 1 3/1 4 2
Was upped in class for next two runs with limited success. Dropped to class 4 and just got home. Beaten last two runs and is now shelved.

It was a rit grand kyow getting in with chaos caused by some gates designated for vouchures (God knows what the promotion was all about but there were plenty of promo stickers liberally stuck to a large number of spectaters apparell including one on each cheek of a not unshapely red dress clad Aris) , some for consessions (plenty of fifty somethings appeared to believe greying sideburns enough to qualify as a senior in Yorkshire where pride is abandoned for the sake of £3 in the old sky rocket)and some for those with correct change (commendable planning for the shrapnel collectors). There were no signs for these in most circumstances which allowed my grumpy gene to kick in on the back of additional adrenalin. If you can't be bothered giving change Mr York Racing then have a twenty pound gate with a free racecard. However the entry price once I had the chance to submit my newly minted score was a very very reasonable £17 for a super card. I had to give the old Edwardian turnstilles a few sharp shoves to get the rusting mechanism to ratchet the prescribed distance. One further point to the first phase of the day was that on  approach to the main gates I thought I was outside the cheapside at Longford Greyhounds yet again. This is the most miserable entrance I have seen at a top class racecourse and in fact must be reminesent of the clocking on shed at a Minsk tractor factory. Please York knock it down and have something modern, enticing and functional.

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Welcome to Longford Greyhounds; York's homage to Midlands design kitsch

So a bad start, but there was quickly a big plus, at last a racecard with two year old foaling dates. Well done York and in fact this is about the first racecard of the season that I thought was very good value for the £3. Great features and stats on the races, a bit of colour regarding the main jockeys , plus a report on yesterday's races. All in all the benchmark for other racecourses who in gneral should feel embarrassed by their miserable attempts to justify more than a quid. I reckon they might as well go back to the old 30p bland format of just runners and riders I grew up with in the 1970s.

York has got great facilities and there are loads of good places to watch from . There is a good view head-on from the paddock, there are plenty of stands to choose from and I like the old fashion one which is usually empty and situated close by the furlong pole. There are plenty of food and watering holes but I wasn't that hungry so didn't partake but I have to say the tea was very moderate for the money.

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[b**** of the North[/b]

The going was a remarkable Good today although a strong drying wind and bright sunshine meant a change the next day to Good to Firm.  The good ladies of Plumpton would have to have rifled through the old handbags in search of the spinhailers to halt the wheezing of delight when they saw several very fine old trees in the pre parade ring of all places. With the Dante being run here at York there was a good midweek crowd and taking into account the recession it would appear the game is holding up very well indeed. This leads to the question; why all this scrimping on money including purses? Surely the high interest must attract more promotional budget from industry? I think our marketeers are just bloody lazy sticking to bookies and traditional backers for sponsorship. Why not get someone like Bupa backing something or some of Ryanairs competitors, what about the utility companies who fleace the general public? Investec are a great example of how to get the most bang for your buck. They wheel out their quite eyecatching Zebra, they had the brand new Derby trophy on display and I gather this has been the norm for all the Derby trials. I saw the trophy and I really liked it's quite innovative design, symbolising the topography of the course and the three centries of competition all in silver. I could not check if it was silver or another precious metal, or even an alloy of aluminium because plebs could only view by pressing their grubby little fat faces against the window rather like schoolboys gazing at a hornby rail display in a December shop frontage. Be reasonable they might touch the relic leaving chip grease fingerprints to mar the view for the more decerning.

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Pleb free zone enabling borgousie their rightful space to indulge in the customary reverential bow in its presence

The Dante has a deserved recent reputation for being the foremost Derby trial. But I want to have a look at how well runners in today's early sprint then do in the June Epsom Dash. So I have had a look at this in a bit of depth. The last fifteen winners came from a Thirsk handicap (well btn), 4th in a Redcar handicap,  2nd in a 6f hcap at Newbury,  3rd in this race coming off the pace,  5th in a chester  hcap,  8th in this race with some late headway ,  2nd in a Beverley conditions race,  2nd in a handicap at Epsom,  8th in Scottish sprint at Musselburgh, 14th in this race held up,  Koln winner.  3rd at kempton,  btn at kempton when 5th, 5th in Sandow handicap. There is in conclusion a May Beverley race once called Angel conditions  over 5f race which keeps coming up as a prep often with the winner but sometimes not the preceeding outing to Epsom. Beverley plus the Musselburough Scottish Sprint as well as todsay's race are the races worth noting. Also a trend suggest that 6 furlong race runs or a late headway horse over 5 furlongs seems to be indicators to help strim down the field come June.

I first visited York for the Magnet Cup back in 1978 out in the cheap area and have always enjoyed the racing here. I also was lucky enough to be present when a great Musidora winner Diminuendo stormed home. That visit was during a so called study week at the local mining college where probability estimation, risk quantification and basic profit and loss acccounting made up that afternoon's cramming. I was also at York for one of the  Royal Ascot days which was very well done and leads plenty of credit to how northern courses are able to put on a show when the southern establishment sometimes do not seem to try hard enough to compel their customers to return. Perhaps in truth the north is the home of the genuine if one paced group horse whereas the south are handicappers of the W six times (waited with will win when wanted). The big meeting for York is obviously the August Ebor meeting. I have been there a few times but few can match the 1981 version including Beldale Flyer, Pragmatist, Contessa and best of all the brilliant sprinter Sharpo who is still in my opinion the greates ever sprinter. That year he flew past the so called greats of Moorstyle and Marwell like they were pacesetting platers. I think although it is a pretty fair track it does suit front runners as they are hard to peg back. Today's racing saw many horses even when racing on the round course, opted to race stand side where the going was best giving the view that draw was favouring low numbers.

The first race was a five furlong handicap class 2 which has been a clue in the past for the winner of the  Epsom Dash. First home was Ancient Cross which I had not really considered. He was always prominent and hard riden from 2 out to win decisively. Not sure he will go on from this. Falaastem has had his best runs over sharper tracks and although reasonably handicapped his entry in the Epsom Dash next month should be noted in relation to today's stiffer test. Here he showed good early speed and stayed on thoroughly to take second place not undermining any apsirations for Epsom. the 4 year old Racy was a fair juvenille but did not appear to have trained on as a 3yo. Is often favourite so must have shown something back home could be better over a stiff five or 6f. Racey finished fast from a crowded position to catch the eye in third place and may be a late maturing type so as a four year old very likley to be ahead of the handicapper at the moment. Whilst fourth home was Judge and Jury who was quick but ran out of puff and you would say a sharp 5 would have suited him better. Of the rest Johannes dwelt but made up good late ground without getting a hard time of it. Although he won this race last year off same mark his best form appears to be over 6 furlongs and as he gets older (he is now eight) he is better kept to six where I think he is very likely to go close next time out. Blue Jack slow into stride again and was out of it from early doors. Blue Jack had been made favourite last time out at Chester when I was there and he had a very rough race from a bad draw. Has yet to win off a mark above 97. Another slightly unlucky one was Swiss Franc who was squeezed for room 2 out when begining to make a move. He was not given a hard time once defeat was clear but ran far better than finishing position suggests. Swiss Franc was a very useful juvenille running in Covernty (2nd) July Stakes(3rd) Gimcrack (3rd)can be tardy out the gate over 5f and not convinced stays 6f fully or is just not as effective at that trip yet(has won over 6f though and at six I think may prefer that distance now). Secret Millionaire ran a satisfactory race to finish fifth, has won off 2lbs lower, had run well in last four turf runs before lacklustre efforts in two most recent runs on the AW suggests that he is in good heart but unsuited by sand. Fitz Flyer has dropped to a winning mark but I think may pefer a cut, ran from a good draw but lacked early and was forced to come wide which was unfavourable. Ran with merit. Barney Mcgrew never travelled and was a bit disappointing (subject of an enquiry into his running).

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York's racegoers are a genteel lot relaxing as the sprint leaders meet the distance

The Middleton Stakes is a Group 2 for Mares and Fillies over 1m2. It attracted a high quality entry. This was headed by the best middle distance mare in the game at the moment which is Midday. She looked a bit backward today but raced with considerable guts and class to wear down a useful filly to record a seasonal return victory for the first time. I am sure she is even better than ever, sure to come back here and defend her Yorkshire Oaks crown and I would like to see her have a crack at the Arc. She has won the Prix Vrermille before and that is a good indicator of Arc victory, I have always thought fillies / mares came into themselves in the autumn and there is plenty of evidence in the past that the girls can turn the boys over st Longchamps in October. The second home was the edgy Sajjihaa who looks useful. However this race was a Frankie masterpeice of waiting in front and then kicking on. This left the others a bit flat footed for a while and only the ultra classy mare could reel her in. I think she may prove better over a mile myself but whilst this race hints at capability to win Group2 I doubt she can succeed any higher and will be short proced next run based on proximity to Midday. Third home was the flashy and a bit edgy Timepeice. Always disputing the lead was unable to quicken when Sajjihaa kicked on. However I think she would prefer a bit of cut as to my eye she has a bit of a round action. Music Show was a shade disappointing finishing fourth. I am sure she will revert to a mile where I am sure she is best suited. Difficult to assess the rest as they were largely anonymous as was expected before the race so they all probably ran to their mark.

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The great mare Midday all set for the Arc? Hope she gets a go at it

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Winner of the Middleton

The Dante Stakes for 3 year old colts over 1m2 is a clear derby trial. The winner was the ultra game Calton House who showed good speed to take advantage of a gap to steer through for a comfortable win. Clearly the best horse in the race irrespective of the fact that there was only a muddling pace for 6 furlongs. Sure to stay 1m4 based on his running stlye and pedigree. The question is is he value at evens on the day for the derby? My view is that the french challenger Pour Moi looks a better Epsom prospect as he looks the right conformation and appears very nicely balanced. Plus I wouldn't completely knock Native Kahn out. I say this on the basis that he has a nice turn of foot, ran far less green in the guineas compared to the craven and the old adage fourth in teh guineas first in the Derby (I know the form book says he was third to Frankel but let's face it The Bushes were probably second that day!). I am not conviced about Recital as I think you need an uncomplicated horse with Epsom's hills, bends and especially the camber. If Seville turns up I cannot see him reversing form and in any case I think his style better suited for the Curragh version. World Domination is a big green leggy thing. His half brother stayed 1m6 and if he were mine I would be thinking about the St Leger. Yaseer, who I had earmarked as postential group horse this year, looked well but ran very poorly suggesting that maybe something went wrong.

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The blogs Yaseer ran poorly

The Hambleton Stakes is a listed mile handicap and always attracts a good field. This was a very competitive contest and difficult to see wood for trees going forward. The winner was St Moritz who was in mid division for much until produced from 2 out and under hard driving just got home. The second was bottom weight Mont Agel who looked particularly well in the paddock and followed a similar race plan to the winner but just failed in a thrilling photo finish. Third was the eyecatching Dance and Dance who dwelt after the blinds appeared to be taken offf a tad late, but made great progress to stay on well. Fourth home was Pintura a real tough genuine sort was not beaten far from a prominent position for most of the race. Of the rest last year's winner Fareer was another who dwelt badly, looked in bother throughout, had traffic problems when trying to come through but was staying on well without getting a hard time of it. He has tried group company before and most recently finished second in Dubai at Group 2 level. I think he must be worth a go at listed. Another to keep an eye on is the mare Off Chance. She has had a right hike in the weights for winning a listed race at Pontefract last year, but she can win off this 100 mark and maybe she is the right type to come back for the John Smiths.

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Head on view of Hambleton finish


There was a 5 furtlong sprint condition race which is much welcomed as there are few opportunities for progressing sprinty three year olds. It was won in very impessive style by the odds on favourite Night Carnation a decent filly and she has entries in the Temple but most interestingly is a fillies race at leaopardstown in July. The Thrill Is Gone ran on well from a poor draw and not a particularly hard race and she can win over six. Whilst second favourite Margot Did yet again lacked pace over five and I am not sure she is good enouh for condition races over six. She was hampered a bit in the early stages but I think making excuses can be the quickest way to the poor house.

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Margot Did looked a good shaped filly in fine knick before the conditions race
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Night Carnation cruises through for a comprehensive win

The maidens race for two year olds had a good winner in the experienced Noor Zabeel who showed plenty of stamina and can progress to listed over seven. Mick Channon has done very well to get a May foal winning this early in the season and some further progress can be expected. The fancied debutante and early march colt Giorgios Dream disappointed  and did look very weak in the market. Is sprint bred so unlikely to step up further in trip and will have to muscle up a lot to take closer order. Likely to prove best on a fast surface. Apostle (late March colt)made up for a lacklustre run when second today. He hung to the right a fair amount and as such is still very green. Best kept to six furlong and may have just found a good one today.Tortoni(April) is a well bred April colt who looked a  bit backward in the paddock. Appeared to hold little chance due to a poor start, but gradually got the hang off things and eat into the field to end up being a respectable third. Could progress. Overpowered who is a March foal from a miler family ran green but finished a decent fourth. Of the others the other who had a previous run was the big and backward Art Dzeko, the coltish Moon Trip who you would think may be cut before long, and disappointing Feb foal Come On Blue Chip who looked well in the paddock had the experience of a very encouraging third on his debut but did not run that well today.

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Noor Zabeel on his way to picking up the maiden

The final race was a 2m2 class 4 handicap. It was won by Dark Ranger who powered clear from a packed firld from two out to win by a decisive two and a half lengths. The runner up was the blogs noted runner Blackstone Vegas which rewarded each way punters witha 20/1 SP and was backed at 28/1. Given a lot to do being held up in a big field and only produced from about two out. Was flying at the end to be a clear second, although it is doubtful if an earlier run from a more prominent position would have aided him. Highly consistant and due a win as is so often second. I am sure many of these will be seen over the sticks in the near future. As a quick summary of the remainder of note was;   consistant sort, third home Hawridge Star held every chance being prominent throughout but could not go the pace of the winner and was soon overhauled by the runner up in the final furlong. Descaro runs consistantly to his ability but is not a favourable mark, Lady Bluesky finished well and suits a softer ground, should be noted if back over hurdles as this was a vary rncouraging run, Hollins ran ok but probably needs to be jumping.

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Runners mill around before the stalls

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The Blogs Blackstone Vegas looks well and runs fine race at rewarding odds

Notebook

Racy (positive) down £30
6 5 4
Ran consistently to her mark and wasa nice 16/1 each way place when fourth but after three runs she was binned.

Swiss Franc (positive) up £50
0 1 6/1
Hampered badly next time out and then won Newmarket sprint. Upped the handicap and as such left alone from there


Carlton House (negative) up £20
3 4
Well held in both derbies.

Midday (positive)down £5
2 2 1 6/4
Ran her normal creditable self if slightly behind her great level as one of the top mares around last year. Shelved after her last victory

Sajjahaa (negative)up £11
4 1 5/6 0
Did win a listed race whe odds on but failed to shine in group class


World Domination (positive) down £10
0
Raced if something amiss on only start this year

Fareer (positive) down £30
0 0 0
Hopeless in terms of being able to win off a stubbornly high mark


Off Chance (positive) down £30
3 3 2
Good and consistent. Unlucky to be done a head at 11/2 on third effort but shelved as no respite from the assessor

The Thrill Is Gone (positive) down £30
2 0 3
I though she would have won at Beverley on next appearance, ran well when third at 16/1 so decent each way effort. Shelved

The shock for southerners inadvertantly stumbling into Cheshire during the first week of May is that the North West can do understated classy events better than they can.

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The best free stand in the country

If you like brilliantly set out venues, happy buzz without raucous behaviour and the idiosyncratic nature of this chariot racing venue then being at Chester is for you. I have been coming here more often than not for the past twelve years and love the place. Ever since watching the great Shergar blast around here leaving my 8/1 slip after the Guardian Class Trial looking tasty I have thought of Chester as a good proving ground for the coming Epsom classics. Whilst it is not as undulating it is constantly on the turn which means at both tracks a well balanced horse is absolutely key for success.

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View of the main stand at Chester

First race was a decent Lily Agnus conditions race for two year olds over just in excess of five furlongs. It went to the favourite Lily's Angel who was produced with a well time run inside the final furlong by champion Paul Hanigan to win by a very cosy length and a half. Has now run up a three timer, is bred to stay at least 6f at this age (will stay at least a mile in time and is related to Group 3 winner) and being a late March foal she is not winning entirely due to maturity. May step up now to group class  and if against fillies she could do it.  However as a note of caution is the fact that the second home was early foal Marford Missile (who is very likely to need further) showed an apparent seven length improvement for a pound gain on his third to Lilys Angel at Newcastle(second in the Newcastle event was Stonefield Flyer who has since won by an easy six lengths). Third was the pacy filly Redair who showed improved form in relation to the disappointing Hes So Cool but was comprehensively beaten. She may prefer a straight sharp 5 furlongs at the moment. Fourth was Choice Of Remark still a maiden and although promising is probably the antithesis of the sprinter to midlle distance mare conundrum. In greyhound breeding we used to think putting such a coupling was less likely to produce a fast dog that stays than a slow one that lacks stamina. I think this colt is more the latter than the former. Fifth was the aforementioned and easily oldest of the buunch Hes So Cool who had easily beaten third home today Redair in his previous run. Needs to dictate and there was a lot of pace up front which could have been part of is downfall. Better than this. Van Go Go can here after a couple of modest wins (including a good win against a bunch of largely green debutantes when I can her at Redcar recently) and ran a similar race to Hes So Cool prefering to make most.

The Cheshire Oaks is a lister race for 3yo fillies over 1m3 was won in highly impressive style by the supurbly bred Wonder of Wonders. The race was a real test for this scopey filly who still looks a bit green not because it was a particularly high class events but because the stop - start pace and the sudden sprint engineered by Hills from 2 out appeared to be geared up to unsettle the O'Brien's filly. However once she got her ehad down she showed an impressice turn of foot to destroy the race in strides. Some may pick holes in this and say the track didn't suit her. But to my eye the filly handled the bends well enough and it was the pace of the race which led to her being scrubbed along. I think that a well run Oaks with a pillar to post pace will show her to best advantage and I saw nothing to disuade me from backing her in the Epsom Oaks and certainly the current hot favourite Blue Bunting represents poor value and hence a negative as I think she is very flattered by the 1,000 guineas win. Should O'Brien think that he has one better than her for the 1m4 classics then theymust be good. As I the ride Michael Hills gave Blaisse Chorus was exceptional The filly looks a typical Epsom filly being nicely made and is clarly well balanced. She remains a maiden and that should be corrected. However after this effort taking into account that she was well clear of the rest together with the class of the winner may encourage a pop at say the Lingfield Oaks trial. If she does go for that one and my view on the winner is correct then you have to say Blaisse Chorus could well win there.

Eddie Ahern really earnt his fee on Overturn in the Chester Cup ( a 2m2 handicap). He was punching like drunk on speed in a Liverpool kebab shop for at least the last mile. Somehow he got this decent hurdler to outstay some of the top flat staying handicappers for yet another major win for local lad Donald McCain. He nicked this and fiar play to all of them. Second home 9again) was the gallant top weight Tastahil who has won group three so may well have a cup season. He is now caught between stools as he will carry top weight in handicaps but is barely group class. I would say a frustrating season lies ahead for this seven year old. The third home was bottom weight Mystery Star in amongst a whole mob of hold up horses making late ground. He is always going to struggle here as in general the tight turns make coming very late a tricky job. On balance this was a good effort and shows he is on a fair mark. I would prefer him in handicaps on fairer tracks like York, appears to stay 2m but may be best at just short of that. May be an Ebor horse. The mob included improving four year old irish entry Mount Athos (looks a two miler and probably could have been raced closer to the pace), Admiral Barry (failed hurdler and may be better suited by some cut), old stager Blue Bajan (one paced but does stay trip) anduseful four year old Icon Dream (some good listed form over 1m4 and was not raced as if sure to get 2m2, said to have temperament issues but seemed ok today, can win off this 99 mark)

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Some bloke in a tie gets in the way of a photo of Overturn

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David BAiley would be proud of this homage to bald heads and the aris end of Overturn

The stellar Handicap over five furlongs was won by strong finishing Doctor Parkes who ran on from the furlong pole to win by a convincing length. I had seen him win well at Redcar and had marked him down as a positive so this 10/1 winner for The Blog was very welcome news. He is effective over 6 furlongs and five. Not sure if he can get the treble but a 10/1 winner is probably time to stop backing. Can stand about another three pounds on this effort. Second was Captain Dunne, likes to make most, best over 5 furlongs, has run well at Chester but is one to watch for on the Southwell fibresand. Masamah was horrendously drawn but again showed how well suited he is to the tricky Chester track. Unlucky runner was Confessional in so far as the bad draw almost forced being dropped out and made some good ground without being thrashed about (best run to date was when making all to win at Haydock)

The 3 year old maiden over 1m2 was won in very convincing style by Colombian. The favourite was hampered quite a bit when begining to make his effort 2 out and the fact that he went on to win well today indicated that he just might be useful. This is the second time he has got into bother and you begin to think that just perhaps he finds trouble. Could step up on this so listed might be where he goes next. The runner up Tanfeeth was outpaced by the winner but the pair were well celar and there must be a race in him over 1m2. Of the remainder the fourth home Planetoid caught the eye as although thrashed ran with much promise should be better over 1m4 and after running very green first time this second run showed plenty of progress. The third was the Henry cecil trained Cahnged The Subject appeared not to stay the 1m2 (pedigree suggests 1m as optimal).

The final race was a grade 3 handicap for 3yo over 1m4. It developed into a thrilling three way battle with the winner Brown Panther being bought with a brilliantly timed run by the talented Richard Kingscote to win by a neck right on the line. Watch this one over hurdles as I am sure with his conformation and pedigree could be useful in that sphere. Not sure if Michael Owen the owner breeder is going to follow up his Derby entry but it will be interesting to see where he is placed next and what mark he has. Would not be surprised if he is put into listed company next although I feel he is unlikley to be that good. Second home Fadhaa looked all over the winner from three out but was caught on the line. Is bred to be best suited by 1m4. The third was a staying type from Mark Johnson Colour Vision whose front running effort was thwated by two well weighted unexposed sorts. Colour Vision is by Rainbow Quest whose prodigee are normally suited by cut but he is clearly best on top of the ground over 1m2.

How did they do next three runs to a £10 stakevEW 10/1 or greater

Wonders Of Worders down £40
2 3 3 0
Close to being the top 3yo filly of her generation but not quite with a second in the derby the highlight

Mystery Star down £30
0 0 0
Often close up in major staying handicaps but is now besy left well alone


Confessional down £20
0 2(10/1)
The race I had him down as a good thing for the epsom dash he was second at 10/1. I then dropped him. Subsequently he ran great races in such as Ponrtland at Doncaster and Stewards at Goodwood. One of the best sprint handicappers of the season


Planetoid up £15
5 (25/1) 1 evens 1 6/4
Up 10pounds for running up a doouble after a good fifth at 25/1 subsequent run to this analysis

If you haven't been to an evening meeting at Wolverhampton, do yourself a favour and at least give it a try. I would recommend spending a little over £40 and have a meal in The Horizon restaurant. This is a very well set up track with the money well spent. I remember coming here many times in the 1970s and 1980s. Then it was an ok course but was never one of my favourites. Now the layout being similar to a greyhound track in that racegoers have a good view throughout. The use of Polytrack make this by far the best surface for all weather racing due to the faster going than other dirttracks and the lack of kickback meaning that hold up horses are not so disadvantaged. There are still some of the old features retained as well as a good sized betting hall and an integrated hotel. The restaurant was manned by well trained staff, the food was more than decent and at least there was plenty of choice on the menu rather than a set meal.

Firzt race on the card was a good two year old maiden over five furlongs the Punchestown Live On ATR Virgin 534 Maiden Stakes. The winner was the well bred Monnoyer(late April foal) who was backed down to strong odds on, close up untill produced from 2 out to win easily despite being a bit green. This was not a bad maiden and I would be amazed if he did not carry a penalty to success. The fourth home Wolfgang  caught the eye. Scrubbed along and going nowhere from early on began to get the hang of and stayed on without being a real threat. Will learn from this run and if tried over six furlongs should win. Is entered up in some very good juvenille races in the autumn so clearly has shown Richard Hannon something at home. Courtyard King put his experience to good effect and although had some traffic problems en route. Again I would like to see him over a bit further but has had a series of quick runs over the minimum trip and mabe now that he has secured a handicap mark will be kept for nurseries. Lord Ali McJones finished third and is a sprinter in the making just being outpaced close home by a very useful winner and a stronger pedigree runner up. In this race very few raced without any merit and of its type I think this will throw up plenty of winners with time.

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Battery ran out after this ebird's eye shot of the paddock

Second race Class 4 over five furlongs Great Offers At wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk Handicap. It was won by hold up horse Island Passion a hold up horse who often is hampered or misses the kick at the start. He did so today but came through with good effect. Campaigned almost exclusively on the all weather, is in good form at the moment but has never really run well when has a mark above 70, a level I think he is likely to return to. Island Legend was caught close home but probably because he is now on a make of 80 was just beaten by the weight. A consistant sort who is much better suited to the all weather and if below the 80 may be in a winning position agains. Kylladdie finished third and has a good record on the all weather particularly when on a mark below 70. He did not seem to have had the hardest of races and keep an eye out when the mark suits and as a four year old can win again soon. Garstang is another interesting runner. Although an eight year old has not stopped winning. Has already won eleven times. He has not won on his present mark of 77 and I would like to wait until on about 71. He was not disgraceed tonight, having traffic problems around a furlong out and not overly pushed once chance had gone.

Third race six furlong three year old seller the Name A Race To Enhance Your Brand Selling Stakes. Only four went to post. It was not a very successful race. The second home and 4/6 favourite Coothill Lass completely missed the kick, was chased up to be competitive, scrubbed along from two out but never got to the winner. It stunk a bit but to be fair she has previous s.i.s comments. Is on a very useful 60 mark and if we get good ground I think she can win in handicap company. Eternal Youth is rated around 67 and this looks a touch high for handicapping. Had every chance but not pushed too hard. Sprint handicap pedigree and has not had many runs over the minimum trip and perhaps a drop in distance may well be interesting. Pick A Little won the race almost by default and attracted no bid. A lucky winner.

Fourth race was the John Allen 60th Birthday Celebration Handicap over one miles six. Storm Hawk just held on by a head and this trip is about as far as he stays. Second home Blackstone Vegas stayed on well but just failed. A moderate handicapper over the hurdles who looks like a two mile event will be a probably advantage as he stays the trip.

Fifth race was the Punchestown Live On ATR Sky 415 Fillies' Class 5 Handicap over just under 1m1. It was was won in good style bu hold up horse Nahab well ridden by Ted Durkin by a comfortable length and a half. Very nicely bred, suited by 1 mile to 1 mile 2 and can follow up. This was first run on all weather as a three year old and certainly a mark of 74 is within the scope based on this run. Sweet Possession almost nicked this race being chased into a clear lead and was only overhauled inside the final furlong to be an encouraging runner up. Her OR for the all weather of 44 if true is very lenient and if is under the 50 level must be able to win at last. Suffered from a useful two year old third at Ascot but has not really returned to that level since. Although there was plenty to provide optimism the fact that she has not won in 21 efforts tempers the belief that a sound bet at this low mark is worthwhile.

Sixth race over 1m1 was the class 6 for three year olds  Stay At The Wolverhampton Holiday Inn Handicap. A seller in all bar name. Won by Little Jazz just who is on the right mark of 60 with any uplift unlikely to lead to further success. The second Ishikawa should really have won having been dropped out, came very wide and ran on well to just fail. On a very low mark of 49 and looks the sort to do ok over hurdles as has some scope I would have thought. Countrywide Falme winning mark of 55 and run over a mile would see him back in the winners' enclosure I think. Ran well today and gave best despite leading at the mile post. Didn't quite stay tonight trip.

The final event was a five furlong three year old maiden race the Sponsor A Race By Calling Maiden Stakes. Gottcher soon took command and pulled clear for a very easy win. Clearly trained on but pedigree is moderate and he may well not follow up. Given this analysis it may well be that this is a very moderate maiden and tere is little to encourage interest in the rest of the field. This includes the well backed favourite Arrow Storm who lacked pace although plodded on for fifth. May be better over six but I think is pretty well useless. Why try Ginzan over the minimum trip. On the face of it a fair third but was outpaced by the winner. His pedigree points to middle distances and surely she can pick up a fillies maiden over a mile.

How did they do next three runs to a £10 stake (EW if 16/1 or greater)

Monnoyer down £40
4 2 0 0
Proved disapointing and shelved

Wolfgang up£40
1 (9/2) 0 1 (5/2) 2 2
Proved a useful 2yo this year and won two of next three races. Was then handicapped a bit tight running well when twice on one occasion at 14/1 and has now been shelved


Kylladdie up £10
2 1(2/1)
Ran well next two in the required class 5 but after winning went up 7lbs and raced in class 4 so was shelved.


Blackstone Vegas down £30
2 2 (28/1) 0
Had a couple of nice seconds including a good each way effort when I saw him at York. However mark then went to a stone higher than last winning mark and that was too much to ask and I stopped backing him

Nahab up £16
1 (13/8)
Won carrying 75 (pound more than my assessment but near enouh) then went up inclass to class 4 and was carrying a stone more than he was carrying at Wolvo so backed out of him sharpish

Ginzan level
3 4 2 4 4 3 2 1 3/1
After three attempts I then decided to wait until tried over than the minimum trip. When he did he win it was first time up over 6f and at a very stiff one like Bath. Went up 5lbs as a consequence so have shelved. I should have held back from the first three races as they were all over the inadequate 5f that I had highlighted in the original commentary.