Dubai World Cup Night Tips

Looking for some winners and trying to find some value bets.

12:45 Godolphin Mile 

Kimbear. e/w 5/1

1:50 Dubai Gold Cup

Rare Rhythm. Win 2/1

Frontiersman. e/w 10/1

2:30 UAE Derby 
Gold Town. Win 11/8

Rayya. e/w 10/1

3:05 Al Quoz Sprint 

Jungle Cat. Win 9/2

3:40 Golden Shaheen 

Mind Your Biiscuits. Win 4/1

4:35 Dubai Turf

Benbatl. Win 3/1

Vivlos. e/w 6/1

5:10 Dubai Sheema Classic

Poets Word. Win 7/2

Hawkbill. e/w 8/1

5:50 Dubai World Cup

West Coast. Win eve

Forever Unbridled. e/w 8/1

Each Way Lucky 15

1:50 Dubai Gold Cup - Frontiersman. e/w 10/1

2:30 UAE Derby - Rayya. e/w 10/1

4:35 Dubai Turf - Vivlos. e/w 6/1

5:10 Dubai Sheema Classic - Hawkbill. e/w 8/1

All Weather Championships Day

The fifth edition of the All Weather Championships takes place at Lingfield on Good Friday. There is a seven race card over a variety of trips and classes, with some good money on offer. We will have a look a little look at each race and see if we can find a winner or two and also some value bets.

The day kicks off with an Apprentice Handicap over seven furlongs. Master Speaker heads the betting having won his last two races at Dundalk. Having been running in Ireland it will be interesting to see how he gets on here and has already been well supported in the markets. Eljaddaaf has been in good form too also winning his last two races, the second of those at Lingfield so we know he will be comfortable on the track. Wahash won first time out this year at Lingfield for Richard Hannon, he is two from four on the all weather and both at the Surrey venue. He has top weight which makes things difficult but could run a nice race at 11/2. For me this isn't a race to get too invested in, but I will pick two each way looking for value with four places available. Wahash will be one, with stamina over a mile hopefully they go off quick and he stays on well at the end. The second chance is Gallipoli for Richard Fahey. After a nice comeback run at Newcastle in February he only carries 9-2 with Sebastian Woods taking off a further five pounds. Well drawn in stall 4 again around the 12/1 mark is worth a small stake each way.

Second up is the Marathon over two miles. French raider Funny Kid is one of the co favourites, he has form with Watersmeet at Wolverhampton in January. That rival is also co favourite and I can see him upholding that form. Mark Johnston has sent him out to win all three starts this year with one of those victories at Lingfield and course form is always something I rate as very important. Mountain Bell has a victory over Watersmeet last December and would have to enter calculations although not having run since then would be a slight concern. I will stick with the third co favourite and that is Red Verdon. He has won his last two with one at the track and hasn't been out of the first three on the all weather. Ed Dunlop's one time Derby runner has really solid form over a mile and a half and should he stay the extra half mile well, he could be too good for the rest.

At 2:30 we have the Fillies and Mares Championship over seven furlongs. Zest has winning course form and plenty of placed efforts too. Those are all mainly over a mile and I am not convinced stepping back in trip is going to help her chances. Diagnostic is three from five on all weather tracks but has never raced at Lingfield, however anything William Haggis runs has to be respected especially with James Doyle booked to ride. The winning combination from the Lincoln last weekend. Summer Icon should go well for Mick Channon. His horses are running well but this one has only two wins from fifteen on all weather. I will take a punt on Mia Tesoro for Charlie Fellows, he has solid all weather form on the track. His last four runs are all at Lingfield and include a third to recent Winter Derby winner Master the World. Andrea Atzeni is also an eye catching jockey booking, he must be each way value at 8/1.

Next up is the race for the speedsters, the Sprint Championship over 6 furlongs. Kachy is favourite after two wins this year both at the venue. He could be too quick for this field and go on to better things this year. He has mixed it with the best sprinters around and there might not be anything near that class here. Gifted Master will run his race and be thereabouts no doubt and Kimberella will be challenging to repeat his win in this last year but has been beaten by the favourite already this year. Intisaab would be the one to back if you are after some possible value at 9/1, but he too finished behind Kachy and Kimberella. Kachy is the selection as he could be the one to go on to bigger and better things this year.

The Three Year Old race goes off next again over the six furlongs. There are many in the field with last time out wins. Corinthia Knight has won all three starts this year and is six from eight on all weather courses. He sets a decent standard and is head of the market for in form trainer Archie Watson. Rock on Baileys is five from seven in his career on the all weather and is some value each way at 5/1, drawn in stall 2 I can see him running into the places. Desert Doctor has three wins this year and again the booking of Atzeni by Ed Walker looks an interesting move. Never Back Down is interesting given his previous runs, he won a fast track qualifier in December and third in that race is the short priced favourite for this race who has won three times since. In a tricky race I will take him at 5/1 over the 15/8 on offer for the Corinthia Knight who he has beat before.

The Mile looks a really good race. Second Thought is favourite for the Haggis and Doyle partnership again. He was the winner of the tree year old race last year and comes here on the back of two wins. He is short at 11/8 with threats a plenty, Arcanada has won three on the bounce and comes here in great form. His victory last time out at Wolverhampton had Mr Owen back in second, that rival was first past the post in the Winter Derby although lost the race and is currently third favourite for the Easter Classic. Goring has rattled up a four timer but would need to step up on that form again, and with the front two in the betting a year and two years younger they could have more improvement in them. Poor Spare Parts has to run in this as opposed to the earlier race he should be in and really has no chance. This is a real shame with all the good headlines and interest he has given the all weather this year. Second Thought deserves his favourites tag and unbeaten on the all weather he is going to be tough to crack. Arcanada will be my selection for this purely on the prices but I do think he has a good chance.

The finale is the Easter Classic over a mile and two furlongs. If Arcanada was to win the previous race that will only give more substance to Mr Owens' chances. He was first past the post in the Group 3 Winter Derby here in late February, however he lost the race in the stewards room having interfered with the fast finishing Master The World. Victory Bond is currently top of the market after winning a class 2 conditions race and finishing runner up in the listed Winter Derby Trial. Utmost has to be feared for John Gosden and Area Azteni, he was fancied for the Winter Derby going off second favourite, however he could only finish sixth. That he returns here would suggest connections still believe he has what it takes and will be having a small stake each way. My idea of the winner though is his conqueror in that Winter Derby Master The World. I thought he was the better horse in that race and would have won without the interference, he comes with warnings though as he can chuck in a stinker.

 

Saturday tips

Doncaster

1:50 - Perfect Pasture 9/2
2:25 - What's The Story 5/1 Nap
3:00 - Tabarrak 9/4
3:35 - Addeybb 6/1
          Ballard Down e/w 11/1
4:10 - Arthur's Spirit 13/2

Newbury

2:05 - Amore Alato 7/2 Nb
2:40 - Oistrakh Le Noir 5/4
3:15 - Midnight Tune 17/2
3:50 - Virgillo 7/2

Saturday Racing Thoughts

So the flat officially returns this weekend with Lincoln day at Doncaster. As well as the main event we also have the Listed Cammidge Trophy first up, followed by the Spring Mile Handicap. The Lincoln is sandwiched between another Listed race in the Doncaster Mile and then the first two year old race the Brocklesbly. There is also a good jumps card at Newbury. The feature there is the Doom Bar Novices Hurdle, a grade two contest over two and a half miles.

The Cammidge is a Listed race over six furlongs. Lancelot Du Lac will turn up and run his race, just as good on turf as the all weather. He has a race like this in his armoury but I find him a little hit and miss and is no value for me at 10/3. Danzeno is a horse I've always liked but very rarely wins which is a concern, he does run in decent races though to be fair. Perfect Pasture was running well at the end of last year with two wins and a second. That last race was at Listed level and he only got beat a length by a Sir Michael Stoute three year old. Blue De Vega is interesting at 10/1. Another who doesn't win a lot, two from eleven but I could see him outrun those odds and grab a place. Ice Age is consistent apart from his reappearance at Lingfield. He likes soft ground and if he can resume last years form he too could run well. I'll be sticking with Perfect Pasture and hoping he continues his good form from last year.
In the Spring Mile Taqdeer heads the betting despite being off the track since May 2016. Having raced only three times connections persist with him and that is no surprise when you look at the the races he has participated in.  Horses he had beaten in some of those races were Mustashry, Poet's Word and Prize Money. Will he still retain that ability after such a lengthy absence will be the question, but master trainer John Gosden sends him out now aged 5 so you would think the signs at home are positive. Original Choice for William Haggas and James Doyle should be thereabouts, a solid campaigner at this level his last time out second has been franked by the winner going in again. What's the Story has two wins from six starts including one at Doncaster, he has only raced up to seven furlongs but stayed on well here to win and the booking of Ryan Moore is a positive. Kynren ran up a nice hat trick last year and cannot be ruled out but steps up in class and may find this a little hot. Taqdeer is short enough given the break but could easily outclass his rivals. At the prices I will take the 6/1 on What's The Story with Moore in the plate, he looks the value each way bet with five places available.
Tabarrak is a worthy favourite in the Doncaster Mile after his Newbury Listed win at the end of last year. He finished second to Ballet Concerto before that in a Group 3, that rival also followed up next in another Group 3. Zabeel Prince had looked progressive last year untill he looked a little disappointing in his last race, finishing midfield at Ascot. If he returns to previous form he rates a danger. I see it being between these two for the win and with Tabarrak coming out on to top for Richard Hannon. His form looks solid.
The Lincoln goes off at 3:35 as the main race of the card. Lord Glitters had long been at the top of the markets. Never out of the first two last year since being brought over from France. A mile on ground between good to soft and soft looks right up his street, and everything looks in place for him to go close. He has been replaced at the top of the betting recently by Michael Bell's Fire Brigade, he too looked very progressive last year and the booking of Ryan Moore to ride has seen the money come in floods. That booking alone would tell you connections are very hopeful of a big performance. One I like the look of is Addeybb for William Haggas and James Doyle. Three wins from only five races, I suspect there might be significant improvement in him and his trainer has a good record in the race. By Pivotal he will love the ground conditions, at 7/1 he looks great each way value. Ballard Down looks a good price at 14/1, he hasn't run since July last year but that was a good effort in a class 2 handicap. That was run on ground similar to what he will have on Saturday so there should be no concerns on that front. Master The World finished second in that race and he went on to win the Group 3 Winter Derby last month. Dark Red could surprise a few, he has form that ties him in with Lord Glitters back in October. He was beaten under two lengths and odds of 25/1 could be generous if he returns well for Ed Dunlop, that race was only three starts back. I like Addeybb to go very close and Ballard Down each way with four places available.

Meanwhile the jumpers continue towards the close of their season with a decent card at Newbury. First up is a good quality Class 3 Handicap Chase just over three miles. Dan Skeleton is responsible for Amore Alato, who in February was a good fourth in Scilly Isles Novice Chase behind Top Notch. He was beaten twenty odd lengths but that was a Grade 1 and he will find this Class 3 much easier. Before that he was third of ten In Kempton's Kauto Star Chase another Grade 1. He must go close if continuing in that form. Wotzizname won a couple of handicaps at Class three and four either side of finding a Grade 3 a little tough at Cheltenham. Harry Fry and Noel Fehily usually do well when teaming up together but may have to play second fiddle here. Old boys Sego Success, Rathlin Rose and Shanroe Santos will run with credit again without looking like they could win. Neither will be getting any better at their ages against younger rivals. Thomas Patrick is one of those at six years old, his form leaves him with a bit to find though and may struggle to beat those at the head of the betting. Ice Cool Champs could well be involved in the finish, last time out finishing Second to Coo Star Sivola in a Class 3 at Exeter. That form has well and truly been franked with that winner going on to win the Ultima at Cheltenham last week. This looks like a good opportunity for Amore Alato to get back to winning ways if he continues his good form and I like Ice Cool Champs to grab a place at 11/1.

In the Class 2 Handicap Hurdle next off Oistrakh Le Noir is currently favourite for the 2m2f contest. I'm a little surprised as he has only been contesting Class three and four races, winning last time out in a Class 4. He does go on the ground and gets weight from those closest to him in the betting. One of those is City Dreamer. Alan King has had him running in some good races, as shown two starts back when second to very highly regarded We Have A Dream. Beaten ten lengths he was a further 17 in front of the third home. Eragon De Chaney was fourth in that race and ran well next time in the Fred Winter at Cheltenham. His start before that he finished behind the re opposing Malaya for Paul Nicholls. Malaya ran again after that when no match for impressive Redicean in the Grade 2 Adonis Hurdle at Kempton. What those two have displayed so far seems to me to put them in with a winning chance over the current favourite and the rest, both are currently value each way.

The Doom Bar Mares Handicap Hurdle is a Grade 2 Handicap Hurdle for Novices at 3:15. Warren Greatrex is the market leader here after having won her last two starts in Class 4 company. She has looked good in winning those just doing enough both times and there could be more to come. Kalahari Queen won last time out at Exeter, making all and going on to win comfortably by eight lengths. The third home ran a Nicky Henderson odds on shot close next time out, so there looks like some substance to the form. Emma Lavelle sends out Woolstone One who has won three of her last four races, the last of those was at Listed level with Midnight Tour back in third. That Mare went on to split Benie Des Dieux and Apple's Jade in the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham. She looks a big danger to all off top weight. Nicky Henderson runs Sunshade representing the Queen, having won her first three she finished third of five last time out. That was in a Listed race won by Maria's Benefit in which the second runs here as well in If You Say Run. I like Paul Nicholls' Mare to confirm that form having gone on from that race to finish second next time behind Midnight Tune. If You Say Run has a three pound pull with Midnight Tune for a 2 3/4 length defeat from that race. Anthony Honeyball does really well with his string and I can see her going on and running really well. This looks like it could be a very good race. Woolstone One has a great chance on form, but can she carry top weight to victory. She may well do but in such a competitive race it could tell, Petticoat Tails and Kalahari Queen have the weight advantage and Nicky Henderson's Sunshade has to be respected. If You Say Run must go close and that ties in Midnight Tune and at 8/1 she looks like a nice each way bet. Not a race to get too involve in from a betting point as there are so many with realistic chances.

Cheltenham Festival 2018. Review of Day Three and Four

First up on day three was the JLT Novices Chase over two miles three furlongs. The sun was out and the ground was officially soft. From the off Bigmartre jumped out to the lead and took the field along a steady pace. Terrefort was always up with the early pace along with Finian's Oscar, Benetar was tanking along early with Jamie Moore having to fight to get his mount to settle. That was still the order as they went out onto the second circuit. Mistakes appeared as the pace stepped up a touch with both Kemboy and Invitation Only both hotting fences. Modus was the next to go through one as the race began in earnest. Four out and Terrefort was just about to to take it up with the strong travelling Finian's Oscar moving to the outside, but as soon as he entered calculations he quickly came off the bridle and looked beat. Terrefort moved well out in front with the mare Shattered Love tanking into contention under Jack Kennedy, Benatar was still there on the inside. Two out and Terrefort was the last to come under pressure for Daryl Jacob but Shattered Love jumped slightly better and into the lead at the last. She stayed on strongly to win by seven from Terrefort and Benetar third. I think there should be more to come from the first three, the second and third were right up there with the pace and from the off, especially Benetar who pulled Jamie Moore's arms off early on. The mare won well though even with her weight allowance. Chalk up another one for Gordon Elliott.

The Stayers' Hurdle might be Thursdays Championship race, however there is no denying the Ryanair Chase is almost as big a highlight on the day. The field was a small one with only six runners, possibly frightened off by facing odds on favourite Un De Sceaux. Last years winner had been in imperious form and was seen by many as one of the good things of the week. Old favourite Cue Card jumped out in front and set a steady pace, Sub Lieutenant followed closely behind with Un De Sceaux keeping an eye on things in third. Cloudy Dream Frodon and Balko Des Flos were all happily dropped in at the tail. Up the hill for the first time and it was like watching last years race again as Un De Sceaux jumped himself to the lead. Like Ruby Walsh last year there didn't seem to be anything Paul Townend could do but go for the ride. Out into the country and Paddy Brennan was already having to niggle away on Cue Card as Balko Des Flos moved alongside. At the tenth fence the favourite was still laying it on his rivals and Cue Card was now being ridden, his race run and no happy ending that would of brought the house down. At the twelfth fence and Balko Des Flos moved into second to keep close to the rampaging leader, meanwhile Cue Card was sadly being pulled up. Four from home and still he went striding along, but now Balko Des Flos was coming right into contention and if anything moving better than Townends mount. Three out and Balko Des Flos jumped alongside and two strides later in front for the first time. Two out and Un De Sceaux was fully under the pump now while Davy Russell still  sat motionless. The last was jumped and the gap was never going to be breached, there was nothing left in the tank. There has been some discussion before and after as to whether Un De Sceaux fully stays two and a half miles on soft ground. For me he beat everything else by eight lengths and more. Maybe he was a little disappointing, I think he just got beat by a younger and better horse on the day.  

Onto the big race, for three mile staying hurdlers. Sometimes this race has had it's critics as against the other more popular Championship races. However this year seemed to be an especially good renewal, with chances a plenty. The six year old Sam Spinner was a well backed favourite on the day in from 3/1 to 9/4 at the off. He had looked good in winning his races up this day and people saw him as an improving youngster ready to rule at the very top. He would have to fight off solid top tier rivals like Yanworth, Unowhatimeanharry and The New One. Supasundae had been near the top of the market since his win in the Coral Cup last year and had looked a better horse this year. Then there was Willie Mullins' Penhill, off for a year but no doubting very talented, as a defeat of Monalee and Presenting Percy would testify. As per his normal way Sam Spinner set off in front with everyone else happy to sit in behind, Lil Rockerfeller and Donna's Diamond were the closest for the first mile. The field was quite well strung out indicating a decent yet not silly pace set up top, Yanworth and Supasundae were the two of the closet pursuers from the top of the betting. Onto the final circuit and no real change in the order from the start with Penhill and L'Ami Serge bringing up the rear but still well in touch. To three out and still Sam Spinner was taking them along but his jumping had started to desert him a little, the field covered by no more than about 8 to 10 lengths ready to gang up on the youngster. At the second last it was pick your winner time as about six jumped it together. Rounding the turn for home and he was still there in front but there were dangers a plenty from all sides. Donna's Diamond was still pressing the leader on his outside but more danger lurked behind in the strong travelling pair of Supasundae and Penhill, Yanworth was still there too just on their inside. Coming to the last and Supasundae was just beginning to be pushed along while Penhill sat on the bridle. A great jump at the last put Penhill in front but back came Supasundae, nose to nose they went until the last 100 yards where Penhill stayed on stronger to win snugly by a couple. Supasundae ran a cracker and would probably prefer better ground and Wholestone stayed on well up the hill to take third. At seven years old and having been off for a year I suspect there is a lot more improvement to come from the winner.

In the Brown Advisory Plate it was a case of the normal as Gordon Elliott and Davy Russell again teamed up to bring home the money. The Storyteller stayed on best to just hold off the ever game Splash Of Ginge. It looked like he was going to hang on for victory until that man Russell again had the midas touch to bring The Storyteller home just before the line. It was certainly an impressive performance from the winner who was also giving the runner up just under a stone. King's Odyssey and Ballyalton ran solid races in defeat with the well backed King's Socks in fifth. The Kim Muir for amateurs was the last race on the card. And what a ride Noel McParlan gave the winner Missed Approach. He led from start to finish of the three mile two contest. Ridden from three out he hit the last but stayed on gamely up the hill with a thou shall not pass attitude as strong favourite Mall Dini came to win his race. I would say that was up there with rides of the week. If that was gutsy then there was also classy during the day in the shape of Willie Mullins' Laurina in the Mares Novice Hurdle. Some would say what did she beat, but you can only win against what is in front of you. She absolutely hosed up by 18 lengths on the hard on the bridle. They may not have been the best of opposition but there is no doubt this mare is very, very good and perfectly timed to possibly replace the retired Annie Power and Vroum Vroum Mag.

Three Standouts from the day. Willie Mullins for his training performance with Penhill. Noel McParland's day he will never forget and great ride. Laurina looks class.

The fourth and final day, Gold Cup day. What a race it looked like being later in the day. Before that story was to unfold we had three races to enjoy. First up was the Triumph Hurdle for the juveniles. Apple's Shakira was a well backed favourite, with previous winning form at Cheltenham she was supposedly the owners best chance of the week. Stormy Ireland and Sussex Ranger were lit up early and both jockeys struggled to get the mounts to settle. Even in midfield The favourite and Gumball were both pulling hard too. Mr Adjudicator, Redicean and Farclas were all held up and had settled better off the gallop being set at the front. Round the top turn from the straight and Sayo joined the front two and the three of them were side by side laying it on. Halfway and Farclas and Redicean had closed up along with Gumball. Into the final five furlongs and still the pace at the front was full on and you had to believe that those at the front weren't going to get home. Rounding the home turn and it looked like Apple's Shakira was looming into contention up the inside, however she quickly came off the bridle and all the energy used up earlier had cost her the race. Stormy Island was still somehow tanking into the straight with Farclas and Mr Adjudicator staying on from the back. Coming to the last and Stormy Island emptied out, it was between Mullins and Elliott again. Jack Kennedy drove out Farclas for boss Elliott with Mr Adjudicator having to settle for second. Sayo stuck at it to finish third and to her credit Apple's Shakira stayed on for fourth but her chances dashed in the first mile.

Mohaayed was quite a convincing if not surprise winner for Dan Skelton and Bridget Andrews in the County Hurdle. None more surprised than trainer and his brother who got off the horse to ride Spiritorthegames as they didn't think he would like the ground. Dan Skelton admitted to taking the horse out but for the owners to chance running. Remiluc ran a huge race in second at 50/1 with quite fancied Whisky Sour in third. Chesterfield fresh from winning a jumpers bumper at Kempton recently continued his good form in fourth.
Another big price winner came in the Albert Bartlett novices hurdle, Kilbricken Storm won well by three lengths for Colin Tizzard. What a timely boost for the stable with Native River set for the Gold Cup in the next race. Nicky Henderson had the second and third with Ok Corral again at a fair price of 16/1 and Santini the 11/4 favourite

Next was the big one, the one they all want. It was Gold Cup time. The tape went up and off they went, as expected Native River was sent to the front by Richard Johnson. Guarenteed to stay and proven on the ground it was thought he might put it to them early on with stamina his strength. Might Bite was close up in second, his stamina might be suspect on this ground being more a speed horse. We would soon see as they pushed on with Our Duke close up and American, supplemented at a cost for the race on the outside. Definitely Red who had jumped off with the leaders had just been shuffled back slightly alongside Anibale Fly. At fence number ten Native river had a length on Might Bite and the pair of them four clear of the field as they looked to assert themselves and press on. Djakadam Moved into third and Our Duke dropped back into the main group, Definitely Red also looked to be under a little pressure with the pace. The first circuit was done and the front two were out in front and jumping for fun Nico de Boinville never letting Native River get to much of a lead. As they rounded the turn out into the country the order was pretty much the same. Definitely Red and Our Duke were soon coming off the bridle with sure signs of trouble already. Five to jump and the two looked in a class of their own, they were really turning the screw on the remainder. Towards the fourth last and Our Duke was finally pulled up, only Djakadam, Road to Respect and Anibale Fly looked like they could get anywhere near the front two as they kept pouring it on. After the third last where Native River and Might Bite jumped it together, everyone else was now in trouble and it was a two horse race. Into the home turn and Johnson began to stoke up his willing partner, Might Bite Looming up on his outside on the bridle. You might think Might bite now but Native River loves it when you come to challenge him, what a finish it was going to be. Second last jumped well, both still locked together as they landed, Johnson now working, pushing and shoving. Nico Starting to shake the reigns approaching the last. Native River seems to be responding as he jumps the last still slightly in front. He lands and has half a length, Might Bite is getting the sink thrown at him by Nico de Boinville. Native River goes into overdrive, his stamina on soft ground coming to the fore as Might Bite doesn't have the legs on this ground to go on, he bravely tries his heart out but wont bridge the gap as Native River crosses the line and the winning distance is four and a half lengths. Anibale Fly ran a mighty race in third staying on well after never being able to go with the front two. Road To Respect looks an improver to keep onside as the seven year old finished in fourth. What a race from the first two, they really served it up to everyone else and they were all found wanting. Might Bite would definitely be more of a danger had it been better ground. Colin Tizzard got the plan spot on for Native River this year, a much lighter campaign partly enforced. When he did return he looked a better horse this year, he jumps, travels at pace and stays. What more could you want and a deserved Gold Cup winner. Might Bite a gallant second on ground he wouldn't prefer. Two true superstars.

After that superb performance from the front two it was on to the Foxhunters' Chase. the Gold Cup for amateur riders over the same course and distance. It was a repeat victory for last years hero Pacha Du Polder, who again was not friendly in the betting going off a bigger price than last year at 25/1. The eleven year old made smooth progress to two out and led on the run in to win cosily by a neck from Top Wood. The victory even more impressive when after we found out jockey Harriet Tucker had dislocated her shoulder and popped it back in while riding. It was a welcome victory for Paul Nicholls who had drawn a blank up to that point. Like London busses Nicholls didn't have to wait long for the next victory in the finale that is the Grand Annual. Le Prezien finally putting it all together and looking good in winning going away by four lengths. He has been called a few things this year but it was a pleasing performance to deliver on the big day. Gino trail ran a big race from the front and stayed on to beat everyone but the winner. Top Gamble another solid race in third without looking likely to win.

Three standouts from the day. Obviously Native River and I'd put Might bite in there with him. Pacha Du Polder winning the same race again as and eleven year old. Richard Johnson for the brilliant ride from the front and perfect tactics to see off all competition bar one a long way out.

So that was this years festival done and dusted. Such a shame we have to wait a year to do it all again. If this year is anything to go by, we already have lots to look forward to.

The Cheltenham Festival 2018. Review Of Day One And Two

So the best week in National Hunt racing has been and gone. We have to wait another year until we see the sustained quality of racing we have just witnessed over four consecutive days. Race after race of pulsating equine brilliance whether it be over hurdles, fences or the one flat race. Some of the superstars were missing, Thitlecrack and Sizing John among those ruled out with injuries. Brilliant mares Annie Power and Vroum Vroum Mag now retired from the racecourse. Missed they were, but in no way did that effect the quality we saw on unusually soft festival ground. The rain, then the snow followed by more rain certainly gave us ground we are unaccustomed too at this time of year. Those who prefer Spring ground would be out of luck, those who like to get their foot in a soft surface would be thanking "the beast from the east" as we opened and remained on soft, heavy in places.

So day one arrived, tens of thousands descended on Prestbury Park in anticipation of seeing exciting novice hurdlers in the Supreme, future champion chasers in the Arkle, the best mares in their division and if Buveur D'Air could retain his crown as the champion hurdler. As always the Cheltenham roar sent the festival opener the Supreme Novices Hurdle on its way. Getabird sent of the favourite did too much too early and never looked like winning, it was left to Summerville Boy and Kalashnikov to fight out the finish. The first two from the Tolworth hurdle proved their liking for soft ground again and finished in the same positions with Summerville Boy coming from off the strong pace and staying on slightly better up the hill even though he hit both the last two hurdles. With only 5 previous runs there could still be more to come from the winner while the runner up has novice chasing as his agenda next year.
Only five stood their ground for the Arkle nut it was still a quality field. Petit Mouchoir and Saint Calvados went off far too quickly, they would pay for that later as Footpad moved through them without any fuss and went on to win as he liked by fourteen lengths. He looks one to follow next year and with form over three miles in his hurdling career he could run in Champion Chase or go for Gold Cup. I would love to see him go for the King George but suspect Willie Mullins might keep him to Irish races.
The Champion Hurdle was the championship race for day one. A race with one definite and several what ifs, the definite in Buveur D'Air turning up in good form ready to defend his crown, possibly a better horse than last year. The What ifs surrounded Faugheen and Yorkhill, Willie Mullins' stars had had a disappointing lead up to the race but were previous superstars. Elgin had been supplemented at a cost and was nibbled at in the betting before the off. As they approached two out the champion put it to the rest and went on looking like the winner. Melon meanwhile was making headway all the time and got upsides at the last, Buveur D'Air had to dig deep but showed his fighting spirit not letting his younger rival past as he held on by a neck. Faugheen never figured from a long way out and looked a shadow of the former great he was, the enigmatic Yorkhill was pulled up and I'm not sure where connections go with him now.

In the other races Benie Des Dieux held on gamely by half a length to deny 33/1 shot Midnight Tout in the Mares Hurdle. The big disappointment was Apple's Jade, sent off the odds on favourite and one of many peoples bankers after winning last year. She was another who paid the price for going off and doing too much too early on such soft ground, although she did stay on well to claim third. I would love to see her run in the stayers' next year after hoping she would this year, especially having form with Supasundae over three miles. Coo Star Sivola was handicapped to go very close in the Ultima and didn't disappoint. Carrying just 10-10 with Lizzie Kelly taking off a further three pounds, she held on from the ever gallant Shantou Flyer by a neck. Vintage Clouds was a further six lengths back in third. The four mile National Hunt Chase went the way of Rathvinden, well backed before the off, Patrick Mullins got a good tune out of the ten year old up the hill to hold off the persistent and younger Ms Parfois by half a length. Those two finished a massive 21 lengths clear of third placed and fellow ten year old Sizing Tennessee. Close finishes seemed to be the order of the day in all the handicaps and the closing Close Brothers was no different. Mister Whitaker came with a late and sustained run up the hill to get up close to home from Rather Be by a head. That little bit of weight he was getting seemed to make all the difference.

Standouts for the day had to be Footpad who has the chasing world at his feet and Buveur D'Air who gamely held on from the improving Melon to retain his crown.

Day two was bitterly cold and still no sign of that fair Spring weather, we all hoped the racing would warm us up. What better way to start the day than with the Ballymore Novices Hurdle, with the weeks hot pot banker from Ireland Samcro. He came over with the tallest of reputations even though connections had tried to play it down, we all waited in anticipation and expectation. So off they went and for the first half of the race Gowiththeflow, Scarpeta abd Vision Des Flos se the place with Samcro positioned in midfield just on the outside out of trouble. The field moved towards the bend to swing into the final straight, Samcro moved effortlessly to the outside tanking along as he passed the leaders to take it up two out. One by one they faded away up the long run in with only Black Op staying on anywhere near him. Samcro idled and wondered around with no competition winning easy by just under 3 lengths. Next Destination stayed on well after looking outpaced and could be one for three miles next year. Second up was the RSA Chase for novices, a race that may have pointers to next years Gold Cup. Black Corton took them along at a fair clip right round to three out before tiring, Elegant Escape stayed on well after being off the bridle a long way out and after being up with the pace throughout. Monalee was quite keen for most of the race with Noel Fehily continuily having to take a pull, it was to his credit he finished as close up as he did. It would of been interesting if he had settled better but I don't think he would have won as Presenting Percy was very impressive and sensed there was plenty there if needed. He Immediately was installed as one of the favourites for next years Gold Cup and you couldn't argue with that.

Today's big race the Queen Mother Champion Chase was intiguing to say the very least. We had the hot favourite Altior get a poisoned foot just days before the race. We had the will he won't here situation with Douvan who was in one minute out the next, but in the end lined up on Ruby Walsh's recommendation. The confusion didn't end there Douvan then went for a walk in the betting and stable companion Min was heavily backed. Special Tiara and Ar Mad took the field along until Ar Mad lost touch. Douvan jumping like a stag moved effortlessly into second. Special Tiara's jumping let him down and Douvan jumped through to lead moving ominiously well. Altior was midfield and looking a little uncomfortable as others seemed to be travelling better. Four out and Douvan guessed at one and fell, God's Own Politologue and Ordinary World took it up three out. Altior was being niggled along while Min was travelling like a dream. Two out and Min took it up while Altior was switched right to challenge, they jumped the last almost together but it was Altior who surged clear to win by seven in the end. Still unbeaten, hopefully one day we will see him and Douvan battling out a finish.

So what of the other races from the day. There was another cracking finish in the Coral Cup where Bleu Berry got up late on to deny Topofthegame. Tiger Roll was another winner for Gordon Elliott in the Cross Country. Only French challenger Urgent De Gregaine could get close, the pair clear of the rest by eleven lengths. The Last Samuri ran a promising race for one inexperienced in that type of race finishing third. Relegate replicated last years winner Fayonagh by coming from the back to win nicely under Katie Walsh. Willie Mullins has some firepower coming out of that race, he had the first three home and five of the first seven. Acey Milan continued his fine form in fourth. In the Fred Winter Veneer of Charm sprang a bit of a surprise at 33/1 but winning nicely by three lengths. Ridden by Jack Kennedy for Gordon Elliott maybe it wasn't a surprise the form his string were in.

Three standouts from today were, Altior who went from looking in a little trouble to winning convincingly. Samcro confirmed himself as a potential superstar and one you want to watch wherever he goes next. Presenting Percy could only be described as very very impressive. He looks every inch a Gold Cup contender for next year. It also looks like at still only eight, there is still plenty of life left in Douvan too.

Saturday Racing Preview

So Cheltenham is over for another year and the blues kick in. Only four weeks to Aintree though so something to look forward to. Going to keep it simple today and concentrate mainly on the Kempton card today, with a quick look at the Midlands National at Uttoxeter.

The opening novice Hurdle looks a good little contest, Grapevine has a shot on form with his stable in fine form. Sao finished second last time out, the winner ran okay in the Fred Winter at Cheltenham this week. The Favourite is Lord Duveen, his form is rock solid even though he has run just once. He finished Firth on debut behind two well thought of rivals, the third Kilbricken Storm won the grade one Albert Bartlett at the Festival yesterday. He is drifting this morning which is slightly concerning with his main two rivals shortening, maybe the market opened too short. He is still my tip to win.
The second race is a Chase for novices where only five take part. Kayf Blanco has good placed form this year in decent races, he seems to find one or two too good though so I’ll be taking him on with Paul Nicholls’ Copain De Classe. He basically had a school round in his last race as his only rival fell at the second. His previous effort was third to highly regarded Benatar. He is most likely the winner for me, a mention has to go to Vocaliser who has been in good form recently and gets a stone and more from the top two in the betting. He could be each way value for second possibly.

Next is a competitive handicap hurdle. Azzerti heads the betting and rightly so, he has been running well in this grade and won last time out. That form was given a huge boost when the second went and won the Imperial Cup st Sandown last weekend. Just A Sting has a good mark for his handicap debut for Noel Fehily and Harry Fry. Graasten did well to win first time out after a year off and rates a danger for Gary Moore. Zubayr ran well in a jumpers bumper last time out finishing second giving four pounds to Chesterfield. That rival ran very well finishing fourth in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham. At 8/1 he could be value each way especially as Paul Nicholls had a double on the last day of the festival yesterday. One I’ve always liked is Arthur’s Gift and I expect he will run his race as usual but probably has to much weight now. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ran into a place though.
There is a good handicap chase at 3:15 and again this looks highly competitive. Tom George is double handed at the head of the betting in a race he won last year, so both Bun Doran and Brandon Hill must be in with serious chances. Bun Doran has top weight and Adrian Heskin has opted to ride Brandon Hill, so that would lead you to think he has the better chance. I will take him on with Kilcrea Vale to win. The selection has solid form in this grade, and last year ran in the JLT at the festival finishing behind the likes of Yorkhill, Top Notch and Politologue. I think FovoritoBuck’s could run a place with course and distance form at a nice price.

The 3:50 is a race I’ll leave alone from a betting view. The favourite is the most likely winner but there is no betting proposition in this. The next is a pretty poor race and none could be backed with any confidence. I will take a punt on the Venetia Williams runner Russborough. A tentative choice but her horses do well when it’s soft, hopefully the aid of first time cheekpieces can have an impact, at 10/1 it’s a small stakes bet. The concluding bumper is a watching race rather than a betting angle.

A quick look through the card for the slog that will be the Midlands National. Get On The Yager could improve for the step up in distance if he stays this far in really testing ground. A few of these have form with each other from the Eider Chase at Newcastle, West Of Th Edge came out best finishing second. Those rivals should be in the shake up again, Back To The Hatch is the interest one from that race as he was going well when he came to grief. Silsol is a bit classy but has top weight because of it. With Bryony Frost on board they can’t be discounted. One I like at each way prices is The Artful Cobbler, he has to carry only 10-3 and in this ground that will be a plus. He is in good form and progressive and might in improve some more for the step up in trip. Each way value at 10/1.

Saturday Football Tips

Going for a four fold accumulator this Saturday.

Preston to beat Sunderland at 21/20
Shrewsbury to beat Scunthorpe 2/1
Luton to beat Newport 11/10
Macclesfield to beat Dover 13/8

Combined odds 32/1

Cheltenham Day Four Tips

Day Four Tips

1:30
Apples Shakira (ante post) 16/1
Mr Adjudicator 15/2

2:10
Flying Tiger e/w 12/1
Le Richebourg e/w 28/1

2:50
Poetic Rhythm e/w 14/1

3:30
Native River 5/1

4:10
Foxrock 8/1
Balnaslow e/w 20/1

4:50
Early Doors e/w 10/1
Melrose Boy e/w 16/1

5:30
Dolos e/w 18/1
Desden e/w 40/1

Cheltenham Festival Preview Day Four

Day three is in the books and again a mixed bag tipping wise. Three winners today.
Laurina was an easy pick as a winner and never looked in trouble. Two big winners in Penhill ante post, who I really fancied as he had that bit of class returning at 12/1. Even better was Delta Work who I had also backed last week at 20/1 for the Pertemps. Who Dares Wins also placed in that race at 14/1 and was tipped each way.

So the fourth and final day is here already...

1:30
I backed Apples Shakira each way for the Triumph before her British debut at 16/1 so am looking forward to her running well. She has looked very good in winning her three races so far and most importantly over course and distance so we know that won't be an issue. All three runs have been on a soft surface so again that won't be a problem, all looks positive for a big run and she deserves to be top of the betting. Some of the horses she beat haven't exactly boosted the form but she could only beat what was in front of her. Redicean has also looked good, no more so than last time at Kempton winning a grade two by seven lengths. He definitely has a shout although my questions about him would start with the track at Cheltenham. It is very different from Kempton's flat track where he has done all his winning. If he takes to the undulations and the uphill finish he has to have a big chance. There will be a big challenge from the Irish contingent as well. Gordon Elliott fresh from another big haul on Thursday sends out Farclas and Willie Mullins has four entered. A small field for a triumph but not short of quality, I will stick with Apple's Shakira with an each way selection on Mr Adjudicator.

2:10
The County will be its usual big field puzzle to work out, as the other big handicaps this week I will look for some value. I like Flying Tiger of Nick Williams, he has form behind Elgin and Buveur D'Air in two of his last three races. With just 10-12 and \noel Fehily on board he should go well. Spiritofthegames finished third to Kalashnikov last time out, that must give him a squeak although I'm still concerned by the Skelton horses not performing that well. Chesterfield has good form around Spring time and warmed up for this with a win in a jumpers bumper at Kempton. He also has a light weight of 10-12 with Daniel Sansom taking off a further five pounds. Le Richebourg has been running in top grade one novice hurdles, this will be easier than some of the races and opponents he has come up against. I will take each way bets on Flying Tiger and Le Richebourg at a big price.

2:50
The Albert Bartlett is another strong novice event. Nicky Henderson has three of the first four in the betting, the form his stable is in they should all run well. Dortmund Park represents Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown so has to be respected although his last run wasn't a great performance. Fergal O'Brien has Poetic Rhythm running, he was a grade one winner back in December at Newbury and hasn't raced since. Could it be he has been kept fresh with this race in mind. His performance before his Newbury win was third behind highly thought of On The Blind Side giving more substance to his form. Tower Bridge is an outsider to keep an eye on for Joseph O'Brien, he surprisingly won a grade one last time out, he beat Dortmund Park but is nearly twice the price. Not a race I will get overly involved in, a small stake each way on Poetic Rhythm for some interest. He has form over the distance so will definitely stay, he has run at Cheltenham before and has winning form on heavy ground.

3:30
The Gold Cup is a cracker and there aren't many you can discount out of hand. I still cant really separate the three at the top of the betting and think they could finish in the first three places. Any order wouldn't surprise me but I will stick to my original thoughts where Native River wins, followed by Might Bite and Our Duke. I think with the ground soft to heavy it takes away a little bit from Nicky Henderson's runner who may be more of a speed horse. Native River has won a Welsh National on soft ground so there are absolutely no stamina concerns from his part on that ground. Our Duke is in the same boat having won the Irish National last year. If it turns into a war of attrition then those two could fill the top two places. There are threats a plenty from everywhere else in the field and it will be one to watch with intrigue.

4:10
The amateur riders Gold Cup goes next. My fancy in here is Foxrock. Katie Walsh is an interesting jockey booking and would say they feel in with a shot. Wonderful Charm, Pacha Du Polder and Virak both figure near the top of the betting and could run well although Paul Nicholls has had a pretty rough week. It could be he just doesn't have the ammunition these days, but his that have had squeaks really haven't looked like winning with the exception of Topofthegame. Balnaslow is another with a chance and is experienced in this event having run fifth last year. Not a race I will get too heavily involved in.

4:50

The Martin Pipe looks quite tricky to predict, with lots of runners having good runs behind them coming into this. None more so than Flawless Escape who was third to Gold Cup contender Total Recall in a handicap recently. The horse one place behind him in that race was Delta Work who won the Pertemps on Thursday. Diese Des Bieffes also has form which ties him in with some highly thought of horses and also Topofthegame who almost won the Coral Cup this week. Early Doors is another one of Joseph O'Brien's that has been keeping strong company in novice events, he might appreciate the slight drop in class. Carter McKay has form behind Getabird and Mengli Khan two runs ago and last time out placed in a grade one, he could fill a place at a nice price for one of Willie Mullins. Melrose Boy at 16/1 goes on my shortlist, he has form with earlier mentioned Topofthegame in a grade 3 at Sandown back in February. Its hard to ignore Flawless escape's chances but for some value I'll side with Early Doors and Melrose Boy.

5:30
A small stakes race and not one to try get yourself out of trouble if you have had a bad week. I have liked North Hill Harvey but seems to have gone a little backwards of late, I am still not sure on the form of the stable either. Dolos might be one for to look at closely, he has solid form and might be able to end the week with a winner for Paul Nicholls. Gino Trail has form with Dolos and to fancy one you have to be interested in the other. He has a fair bit of weight to carry this time with a nine pound penalty, but likes soft ground. Dresden at a big price could figure, he only carries 11-2, likes soft ground and has some form over course and distance. A small stake o him and Dolos for me to end another incredible weeks racing.

Day Three Tips

1:30
Terrefort

2:10
Who Dares Wins e/w
Delta Work e/w

2:50
Un De Sceaux

3:30
Penhill e/w
Supasundae

4:10
Kings Socks
Guitar Pete e/w
Willie Boy e/w

4:50
Laurina

5:30
Milanisi Boy e/w
Aubusson e/w
Captain Buck's

Cheltenham Festival Day Three Preview

A mixed bag from the second day with two winners, and two placed horses advertised each way. Samcro was the banker and won like it, Presenting Percy was just as impressive winning the RSA very easily. I was pleased to pick Elegant Escape to place and he ran a good race without threatening the winner. I hoped Urgent De Gregaine would run well at a decent price and thought he was coming to win the race swinging into the home straight, however Tiger Roll stayed on to strongly in the end.

On to day three then...

The JLT for Novices starts us of and I think this could be quite an open race. Invitation Only is currently favourite, probably due to his grade third last time out in which he finished behind Monalee. That form was done no harm on Wednesday when that rival finished second to the mightily impressive winner. Shattered Love brings Grade one winning form to the table for Gordon Elliott and the in form Jack Kennedy, he could quite easily figure in the finish here. The enigma that is Finians Oscar could be winning this if back to his best or could be beaten at half way if he runs how he has been. I can’t back him until I see some return to form however I can see him running a solid race.
The one I have backed is Terrefort from the bang in form Henderson yard. Last time out he won a grade one from Cyrname with the pair 30 lengths clear of the third. The runner up then went and won the grade two Pendil at Kempton by 11 lengths. He has lots of form on ground soft to heavy so won’t be inconvenienced by track conditions.

The Pertemps Hurdle is a puzzle anyone will do to solve and I’m sure there will be many turning up where this has been the plan all year. Glenloe for Gordon Elliott and Barry Geraghty have obvious chances, three miles was fine for him last time and that bodes well here as it will take some getting. Glenloe’s stable mate Delta Work could run a nice race with a decent weight, he has the right man on board in Davy Russell to bring him into the race at the right time. Having had three winners yesterday they have to figure prominently in any thoughts. Who Dares Wins needs close attention as a horse who has Festival form which is so important and only aids chances. His third last year to Supasundae in the Coral Cup was a great effort and I can see him laid out for this time of year again. He has winning form on heavy ground too. Thomas Campbell has looked classy this year winning a couple of handicaps over three miles, he has fine youngster James Bowen in the plate taking off 3 pounds. I still think he has too much on his task with top weight in such heavy ground. Not a race to have too much money in, I’ll be having small stakes on Delta Work and Who Dares Wins each way.

Un De Sceaux wins the Ryanair simple. Should anything go horribly wrong Cue card can pick up the pieces.

So Sam Spinner is all the rage for the Stayers Hurdle, the feature race of day three. Since his seventeen length demolition at Haydock he headed the market, he followed that up by taking the grade one Long Walk at Ascot from L’Ami Serge and Uknowhatimeanharry. He deserves his place at the top of the betting, my own concern is him never having run at Cheltenham. I am very keen on course and especially Festival form and he has neither. This doesn’t mean he can’t win, tom it just asks new questions of him. I think Uknowhatimeanharry has had his time and other will now progress past him, he is also firmly held by the favourite. Yanworth is a classy animal and it’s very interesting Alan King and the owner have elected to run him back over hurdles. He certainly has the class to trouble everyone involved. He and Supasundae both have form at Cheltenham especially Supasundae’s win last year in the Coral Cup. He is a horse I like and can’t see him out of the first three. The one for me may be a bit of a long shot and that is Penhill. If he had a run this year I’d be all over him, but he hasn’t seen the racecourse since April last year. It’s very hard to win a Championship race after a year off, but at 12/1 he is worth a punt for me. His Albert Bartlett win last year was impressive and those in behind him have gone on to good things this year.
I see it as Penhill, Supasundae and Yanworth. Sam Spinner could make me look stupid but at the prices that’s where I’m going.

The Brown Advisory Plate could be another mine field for punters and like the Pertemps small stakes are the way. Kings Socks has been a bit of a talking horse and has been backed accordingly from 10/1 into around 13/2. I have backed at tens but feel the value now might be gone, so I will throw a few out here at some value. Guitar Pete is one I’d be onside with despite his unseating last time out. He has some solid form and is that all important course and distance winner. Venetia Williams always does well when the ground is boggy and has some history of winning Festival handicaps, so for that reason Willie Boy goes on the list. I’d like Oldgrangewood a bit more if I saw some of Dan Skelton's running better but they look a bit out of form so far this week. So small stakes each way on Guitar Pete and Willie Boy.

Laurina should win the Mares Novices Hurdle as she was Ruby Walsh’s best chance of the week. That in itself says all you need to know.

The final race is the Kim Muir and I like Mall Dini, however in this big field I can’t back him at 5/1 and the same goes for Squouateur who must have a chance. Pendra will always run his race but as per usual off top weight he is up against it. So I am going for some bigger price alternatives starting with Captain Buck's at 40/1, Milanisi Boy at 18/1 and Aubusson at 25/1 and see if we can get some place money.

Happy punting and good luck.

Day Two Tips

1:30
Samcro
Vision Des Flos e/w

2:10
Presenting Percy
Elegant Escape e/w

2:50
River Frost e/w
Burbank e/w

3:30
No bet

4:10
Bless The Wings e/w
Urgent De Gregaine e/w

4:50
Nube Negra e/w
Look My Way e/w

5:30
Acey Milan
Rhinestone e/w

Cheltenham Festival Day Two Preview

Day one is in the books and it was quite successful. Buveur D’air And Footpad were short price winners to go with Coo Star Sivola and Rathvinden. I’d take four winners any day, Kalashnikov was a close second as well.

So we move on to day two...

First up is The Ballymore Novices Hurdle, and unless you have been on another planet you will know all about “the banker of the week” in Samcro. The debate on which race he should tackle went on longer than you could imagine with opinions divided, right up until the final declarations for The Supreme were made on Sunday. Such is the hype surrounding him, he has been top of the market for all novice races at the festival pretty much all season. Unbeaten, pretty much unchallenged such has his authority been and with no worries with underfoot conditions he really does look unbeatable. At odds on he could easily win like his price would suggest.
So where to look to find some value should the unthinkable actually play out. Next in the market is Willie Mullins first string Next Destination, and with two victories over the very useful Cracking Smart in his last two races he comes here in grand form. At around 7/2 though he is not value to tak on the favourite. Tom George runs Black Op ridden by Noel Fehily who has one win from one ride on him, however I don’t see his form stacking up against the top two who are both grade one winners. One I do like at decent price is Vision Des Flos, he bolted up in his last race on heavy ground giving ten pounds away to the second and third. There is more substance to his case now the Tizzard yard is in better form and he doesn’t have masses to make up on ratings. At 14/1 he is some value to sneak into the places
Willie Mullins has four of the first seven in the betting, will there be some tactics organised to get at Samcro one way or the other? If so I hope to see Robbie Power delivering his mount at the right time to capatilise. One thing Samcro does not have is any course form, but I fear all of this still won’t stop him. He could be something special.

Second up for the day is an intriguing renewal of the RSA. It may seem and sound a little disrespectful to the rest in this field, but I can see this being a two horse race. Al Boum Photo seems held by Monalee, Black Corton is admirably good and a grade one winner who cannot be dismissed lightly and Dounikos has some very solid form too. Elegant Escape ties in very closely with Black Corton and again won’t be far away from him you would think. However the Irish challenges look well held by Monalee on their Flogas form and the vibes have been very good. I suspect they will all have to play second fiddle to Presenting Percy. His form is very good, he has course winning form and will stay forever which will be needed over the three mile trip on soft ground. I wouldn’t like to pick the finishing order but would be surprised to see anything finish in front of Presenting Percy.

The Coral Cup is due off before the big race, and it is the usual head scratcher. Twenty odd go to post and there could be plots planned, and gambles a plenty. So I will look at a few but it won’t be a race I get too involved in from a betting perspective. Top of the list has to be Max Dynamite, who could be dangerously handicapped with just 11-0 to carry. His last two races have been a sixth in the group one  Hong Kong Vase, to one of the best flat horses we’ve had recently in Highland Reel and before that a third in The Melbourne Cup. If he displays that kind of form he could be a blot, my one question mark would be very testing ground. A couple I like at decent prizes are River Frost who has form behind Sam Spinner and Supasundae, he should be staying on at the end. The second is Burbank, last time out he finished third to Jenkins and Air Horse One. Nicky Henderson has also tipped him as his value bet so expect to see him primed to do business.

Championship race of the day is the Queen Mother Champion Chase. This won’t take too long, God’s Own really wants better ground as does Special Tiara. Charbel was running a huge race in last years Arkle until crashing out, but this is different company and form is not great. Politologue is s solid horse but just short of real top class. So we’re left with Douvan, Min and Altior. With all the drama around this race throughout the year of will they won’t they, we finally had our answer. No more than hours later Altior was lame! Not even going to guess what might happen next, just going to sit back and let it unfold.

The Cross Country Chase is up next, we all know J.P McManus likes to win this and has his usual army assembled. All four in green and gold have to be taken seriously although Cause Of Causes is no don’t number one in the pecking order. He scooted home last year and then followed that up with an impressive second in The Grand National. Josies Orders partnered by the super Nina Carberry shouldn’t be far away despite being ten now. I will take them on with thirteen year old Bless The Wings. Runner up both of the last two years he was really impressive winning over course and distance in December and at 8/1 he is value for me. At bigger prices I will be interested to see how Urgent De Gregaine and Vicomte Du Seuil perform, both have course and distance form at 16/1 and 33/1 they could squeak a place possibly.

The Fred Winter isn’t one to get too involved in but one I will be backing is Dan Skeltons Nube Negra. He was an 8 length winner last time out and before that a creditable second to Triumph Hurdle favourite Apple’s Shakira.
In the concluding bumper I have always liked Acey Milan and won’t be against him here. He has winning form on soft and heavy ground. I will have a small each way bet on Rhinestone too, but as always this is a very open affair.

Let’s hope Wednesday is as productive as Tuesday. Good luck!

Day One Tips

1:30
Kalashnikov ante post
First Flow e/w

2:10
Footpad

2:50
Coo Star Sivola
Ramses De Teillee e/w

3:30
Buveur D’Air

4:10
Apple’s Jade

4:50
Rathvinden
Duel At Dawn e/w ante post

5:30
Any Second Now
Barney Dawn e/w
Testify e/w

Cheltenham Day One Preview

The wait is almost over. The annual pilgrimage to Prestbury Park will begin and thousands will be talking all things National Hunt. Who’s the banker? What horse will be the gamble of the day? Which Faugheen turns up in The Champion Hurdle. On a crucial day for the bookies how will the odds on likes of Buveur D’Air and Apple’s Jade go, will they along with short priced favourites Getabird and Footpad start the week off the worst possible way. Will we be forming orderly lines to collect and fill our pockets or sitting thinking how did we get beat.

Starting the week off with The Supreme and as usual Willie Mullins has the favourite. Getabird is a worthy favourite and could carry on the role of honour from Mullins and Rich Ricci. However I think it could be like last year where Melon was turned over when seemingly the good thing too. Kalashnikov is a horse who has impressed me this year, yes it is a big step up from handicaps but I see him still progressing and that big field win last time out will give him some edge. On that evidence Summerville Boy has a shout as he beat Kalashnikov at Sandown and will like the very soft ground. I expect Mengli Khan to be a better horse than last time out and he could figure in the finish. One that has grown on me especially with the rain we’ve had is First Flow and is still a decent price at 10/1. I think it could be a cracking finish and I will stick with Kalashnikov to come out on top.

The Arkle is now down to just the five runners, but is still full of class, the top three in the betting have been the top three for the last few weeks now. I was growing increasingly more confident with my ante post punt on Sceau Royal however that has been scuppered by injury. Footpad is most likely the winner and cannot see Petit Mouchoir reversing the form from there last meeting. Footpads jumping has been superb and that will give him the edge over Petit Mouchoir who does like to hit one or two. Saint Calvados is the one who could really put the pressure on the favourite, there was no denying he looked impressive in his last two runs and there is no telling at age five how much more there is to come. If the favourite doesn’t win which I expect him too, the Saint Calvados will be the one to take advantage.

The Ultima Handicap Chase is quite an open looking race now we have the final declarations in. Singlefarmpayment heads the market and was quite well fancied for The Cotswold Chase back at Cheltenham in January. He didn’t jump one of the fences well and was soon pulled up, however he has good form around the course and usually runs well. Coo Star Sivola has to have a very good opportunity here with what is relatively a light weight. Nick Williams charge only carries 10-13 with Lizzie Kelly taking off a further 3 pounds with her claim. Other with chances are, Vintage Clouds who will like the ground conditions and Yala Enki who again loves the mud and has winnming form on it. Shantou Flyer at around 25/1 will run his race on soft ground, he also has form at Cheltenham which is a big plus and has run in some decent races. I think he could place at a price especially with some bookmakers paying five places. My tip for this race though is Ramses De Teillee, he has won two of his last four races and finished behind Get On The Yager and Elegant Escape in the other two. All of those races on heavy ground so expect him to deliver another good performance at 14/1.

The next two races on day one could well be shoe ins and don’t really need much insight. Buveur D’Air wins the Champion Hurdle unless the old Faugheen is back. I think My Tent Or Yours could run to a place again, but it’s all about the favourite. The same can be said about Apple’s Jade in The Mares Hurdle, everyone else is fighting for second and third at best.

The National Hunt Chase for the amateurs looks to be a good renewal. Gordon Elliott has the top two in the market with Jury Duty and Mossback, both are solid with regards to form and ground and will run their races. No Comment and Ms Parfois head the home team, although I was a little disappointed in Ms Parfois’ last run. There is no shame in coming second to the forces that are Black Corton and Bryony Frost but would have expected Anthony Honeyball’s inmate to get a little closer than the easy 8 lengths they won by. The one I will be with will be Rathvinden, having competed in grade ones the last three times he could be some value at 7/1 and I expect Willie Mullins to have him primed for this race.

The Close Brothers Novices Handicap closes out day one, and another open race with 6/1 the field. Any Second Now is favourite and if you look at his form you understand why. Horses he has finished second and third to in his last four races include Footpad, Petit Mouchoir and Monalee. He could still be real value at that price. De Plotting Shed has been the name a lot of people fancy for this especially from Gordon Elliott’s yard. My problem with him is although his form has substance to it he seems to struggle winning. Demi Sang has form that ties him in with the favourite and shouldn’t be far away. Testify has run well this year including a grade two event last time out, that was effectively a match race as the second favourite fell at the second. Mister Whitaker has winning form at Cheltenham which is always a plus. Nicky Henderson has two prominent in the betting, Divine Spear and Rather Be. Both would have chances and decent prices to boot. I can’t be against the favourite though, his form is rock solid and it is really interesting they are sticking with Mark Walsh who has partnered him regularly as opposed to J.P McManus’ retained jockey Barry Geraghty.

So there we are, day one in a nut shell and hopefully we will have some winners and money in our pockets.

Saturday Sandown fancies

1:30 Eragon De Chanay - Competed in grade two events the last twice, finishing behind We Have A Dream and Apples Shakira. Down massively in class and must go close

1:50 Al Shahir - Won last time out, before that finished second twice to Kalashnikov and First Flow. Solid form and progressive so far with more to come.

2:25 Call Me Lord - Has top weight which won’t be easy to defy, but has it for a reason. Last time out third in The Kingwell behind Champion Hurdle bound Elgin and Ch’Tibello.

3:00 Queens Cave - Tricky race to predict, my pick on the basis of a bit of value and has won his point on soft and his bumper on heavy.

3:35 Shanroe Santos - won this race last year and decisive win last time out, hoping for a repeat. Runs well on soft/heavy.

4:10 Silverhow -  Winner last time out and like backing horses in form. Won’t mind the forecast heavy ground.

4:45 Morning Reggie - won this last two years, hasn’t been in good form but this obviously a target and hoping he is ready to bounce back .

Valspar Championship Golf tips

After Phil Mickelson being one of my Successful tips last week at a healthy 25/1, we start again this week looking for some value at the Valspar in Florida. Having a look around the markets, some bookmakers are offering 8 places, so definitely worth looking for some value punts outside of the usual top of the betting names.

At the top of the markets are your usual protagonists Rory Mcilroy and Jordan Spieth. At the moment I can't have Rory at the price he is, there is no evidence for me to say he looks like winning yet. Until there is more consistency through all four rounds I will be giving him a wide berth. Spieth on the other hand looks like he could be returning to somewhere near the form we expect to see. There were definite signs last week he was on the route back to winning, and if he can get the putter going then it won't be long. You would imagine he is even more determined with the way Dustin Johnson and Justin Thomas are playing to get back to the very top of the rankings. He could easily start this week but at 8/1 he is no value.

So where to look for some value this week. First up and one I am really keen on is Ryan Moore at 35/1. The facts are simple to see, he has five top 20 finishes at the Innisbrook Resort course and the last three years have yielded finishes of 18/3/5. Having been in decent form without threatening to win hopefully this time he will give me a good run for my money.

Next up is Webb Simpson. He being one of the golfers having to change from the belly putter has obviously has made things more difficult. Like Moore has good previous form at the course although not so recently. His game has been in good shape with top five finishes and around 50/1 I think he provides some good value and interest over the four days.

Last pick is Kevin Streelman for me. A player I always like to have on my side and when I don't is when he tends to be in top form. He like the other two has good course form to his name which is something I like to note, none better than winning the title back in 2013. He has been in the top 40 in every tournament since the turn of the year including a sixth at Pebble Beach. He looks value to me at 50/1.

My picks:

Ryan Moore 2.5 pts e/w at 35/1

Webb Simpson 1 pt e/w at 50/1

Kevin Streelman 1.5 pts e/w at 50/1.

Cheltenham Festival Preview, Supreme Novices Hurdle

Day one race one!

So after all the talk, all the debating about which horse should go where. The Festival begins on Tuesday with The Supreme and I can’t wait. What a race to start with too. 

As per usual we have the Willie Mullins hot pot in Getabird, supposedly the best chance of a winner for the Ricci’s. Unbeaten in four runs he has looked good in his races, no more so than last time out when slamming the re opposing Mengli Khan by nine lengths in the Moscow Flyer at Punchestown. Given his form on soft and heavy ground and the fact he hasn’t been stopping at the end of his races there is little doubt he will be bang there as they charge up the hill. Will Getabird’s change of gear take him away from his rivals and enable him join the list of past winners for team Mullins. There are currently two other Mullins inmates still entered but expect both Next Destination and Laurina to take up alternative options in the week.

I’m a really big fan of Kalashnikov and have backed him in his previous two races, I’m hoping he continues to impress as I’ve already backed him each way at bigger odds. His last race in the Betfair was impressive beating a decent field of 24 by four and a half lengths and more. He looked like he had improved again from Sandown and I’m sure there is more to come. There will be no ground concerns whether it be very soft or good ground. This would be a fantastic result for the small Amy Murphy stable against the big guns. The latest reports coming out are that his work has been very good and all the signs are there for a big run.

If you like me fancy the chances of Kalashnikov then the value bet of the race could well be Summerville Boy. He has previous course form having run twice at Cheltenham before, the first time he went down by under a length to Slate House. What does make you take notice is the Sandown run back in January in The Tolworth. On that day he beat Kalashnikov by four lengths going away at the end on testing ground. At double the price he could be too big at around 10/1 and can definitely see him figuring in the finish.

Mengli Khan is another who could be too big a price, yes he was firmly put in his place by Getabird last time but with the exception of the time before when he ran out he had looked good and was very much on the upgrade. There are different opinions on that last performance, was he below par or was he just firmly beaten by a better horse. We don’t know that answer for sure but we will find out soon enough. For me I’d give him another chance before writing him off and with Gordon Elliott as his trainer you would be foolish to think there isn’t a better performance in him than last time.

Scarlet Dragon is interesting all the way down the market at 20/1, having had only one run over hurdles. A very good performer on the flat there is every chance he could develop into a decent hurdler, but is it too late for this years Festival. His first and only run wasn’t until February in the Dovecote at Kempton, finishing a creditable second to run away winner Global Citizen. I would like to think there is a good bit of improvement to come but suspect this race might be too soon. There is no doubting he has class for that price.
Paloma Blue and Claimantakinforgan are good horses in their own right but see this as to hot for them to be winning. The other at a price I like is a Kim Bailey’s First Flow, he will have to step up again but that is totally possible. His last two runs have produced a twenty length handicap win, followed by a ten length romp in the Grade two Supreme trial at Haydock.

My prediction
1. Kalashnikov
2. Getabird
3. Summerville Boy
4. First Flow

Cheltenham Festival Preview, The Arkle

Day one, The Arkle

I love nothing better in national hunt racing than a classy two mile chase. The speed they go at and the way horses go attacking fences is a sight to see. I think this Arkle could be one of the best line ups I can remember, there are at least half a dozen that are really top class and could probably win an ordinary renewal. We have the 3rd, 4th, 6th and 8th from last years Champion hurdle all locking horns again, but I don't think they will finish in the same order as last year.

Petit Mouchoir finished third in that Champion last year, since that run he has only run twice both this year over fences. The first was a routine win in a beginners chase, but there were a few mistakes with his jumping that would ask serious questions when he gets to Cheltenham. Any mistakes he makes on the day and against this field would seriously dent his chances. The Irish Arkle was next where again there were mistakes and he finished well held in second to Footpad. I cannot see him reversing that form at all and think he is running for a place at best.
Footpad is a worthy favourite. As above he holds Petit Mouchoir on their last run and expect him to confirm that form. A classy hurdler he has gone to new heights over fences and looks a natural. His jumping is superb and that can make so much difference at the pace they go in Championship races. He has form at the venue and I don't see any weaknesses, even at short odds in a strong field he looks the likeliest winner.
Sceau Royal Was another member of that Champion coming in 6th, like Footpad he has become better with a fence. Owned by the same connections as Footpad, they must think he has a good chance by letting him take his chance rather than finding an alternative assignment. Having had five runs over fences, that will also prove invaluable come race day. He has been impressive in his races and would have to think he will figure in the finish.
Saint Calvados has run three times over fences this year and is still unbeaten. He has looked more impressive every time he has run, and with only seven career races there should be a lot more to come. I know some will say his form isn't up to much compared to some of his opponents, last time he was very impressive routing the second by 22 lengths and North Hill Harvey a further 17 back in third. There were also questions about him on what would normally be good Spring ground, however that would appear to not be a worry as we anticipate soft going on the first day. Could be loads to come but at the moment he isn't going to finish in front of everyone.
Brain Power was the last member of the Champion cast from last year. His form is a little hit and miss this season, his last two efforts showing a fall and unseated rider. He has a bit to find with his conquerors from last year, no doubt there is potential however I see safer options out there.

Invitation Only has some good bits of form, but he will be Willie Mullins second string and won't be in the first three. North Hill Harvey I had high hopes for after he beat Sceau Royal at Cheltenham but he has disappointed since, Maybe he would be better on better ground and as he won't get it he misses out.

Prediction and odds.
1. Footpad 5/4
2. Sceau Royal 7/1
3. Saint Calvados 11/2

With no Sceau Royal now, Petit Mouchoir takes 3rd.

Cheltenham Festival Preview, The Gold Cup

Day Four, The Gold Cup.

What a race we have in store on the fourth and final day of the 2018 Festival. Quite possibly one of the most open renewals in recent times. A case can be made for so many of the possible runners that whatever order they finish in you would do well to predict. At 4/1 the field tells it's own story and I'm sure the bookies will be rubbing their hands at the prospect of cleaning house one way or another. So lets look at the many serious contenders.

Might Bite
Quite rightly heads the market, unbeaten since Kempton when he was 18 lengths in front before falling at the last. He finished last year winning two novice grade ones at Cheltenham and Aintree, although he did his best to throw away the RSA when deciding to drift the width of the track up the hill. Just two races this year so far, a straightforward task at Sandown then taking the King George on Boxing Day. He has solid grade one winning form and has no issues with the track or trip, everything is in place to go extremely close. Some will have question marks over last years run and what may or may not happen when he jumps the last.

Native River
A year younger than Might Bite and quite possibly still improving. Has only had the one run this year in February after an enforced lay off. I thought that was mightily impressive considering he had been off for a year, Colin Tizzard said plenty had been done beforehand but still he trounced Cloudy dream who is no mug by 12 lengths. You would like to think he would improve for that run and he could certainly go and serve it up to them, guaranteed to stay and has form on soft ground if it stays wet. I would love to see him set the tempo and let them pass if they are good enough. Possibly a better and stronger horse this year. A slight concern on the yards form this week.

Killultagh Vic
Definitely in the who knows category. Four wins on the spin in 2015, then nearly two years away from the racecourse. He made his comeback at Punchestown in December and despite numerous mistakes returned with a win. Willie Mullins wasted no time after that sending him to a grade one, the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown in February. Again there were a few mistakes but he was still travelling well and moved into the lead when he fell at the last. If his jumping holds up he could be a player.

Our Duke 
Jessica Harrington had two live chances this year with Our Duke joining Sizing John. Now the sole representative he was by no means a number two either. He really put his credentials on show when bolting up in the Irish National last year, putting 14 lengths between himself and the other 27 runners whilst also giving weight away. His next run was slightly disappointing but issues were highlighted after a thorough check up. Three months later he returned with a fourth place in the Irish Gold Cup and then returned to the winners enclosure in the Red Mills, only Presenting Percy could get close to him that day. That form was boosted no end with him winning the RSA so convincingly this week. Huge chance.

Others to consider 

Road To Respect
Solid as they come, always runs his race. No Surprise to see him figure. Form of his last time out win was boosted on Thursday with Balko Des Flos winning the Ryanair. Is he good enough.
Definitely Red
Cracking run in the trial in January, stays and has course form. The continued wet weather this week will only help his cause. Could surprise, unlikely to win.
Total Recall
Highly progressive since joining Willie Mullins. Big step in class from handicaps to this, could be an improver. Suspect Killultagh Vic is stable number one.
Edwulf
Would be fantastic to see him run well after last year. He could outrun his odds.

I can see these three finishing in any order but sticking to my pre Festival thoughts.
1. Native River
2. Might Bite
3. Our Duke