Best Of Bets

Category: Horse Racing

  • Horse Racing Tips | Choisya a good choice

    Horse Racing Tips | Choisya a good choice

    Last week, Bestofbet.com readers had a good time of things for the horse racing tips in this column thanks to two winners and a nice each-way return.

    There’s no Irish Grand National, or tasty supporting card, to look forward to this weekend, but the action from Kempton and Chelmsford has caught my eye.

    So, let’s begin with this week’s bets.

     

    2:05 Kempton – Choisya @ 4/1 with William Hill – 1pt Win

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    Over the last few weeks, Simon & Ed Crisford have been in good form as they have fired in three winners from their last 10 runners.

    This is promising as Choisya has form in the book that interests me for the Listed Snowdrop Fillies’ Stakes.

    The four-year-old by Night Of Thunder is quirky, but talented, and she receives three pounds from the favourite, Many Tears.

    Firstly, she gave three pounds away to Novus at Goodwood in August before Gary Moore’s Dandy Man filly improved 18lbs to a mark of 107.

    Furthermore, she tried to give 11lbs away to Mountain Song at Newmarket in October when beaten by three-quarters-of-a-length; Mountain Song is a Sea The Stars half-sister to two black type horses and she was second (when giving weight away) to Eternal Hope, a subsequent Lingfield Oaks winner, in February 2023

    She won over course and distance on her last start and if she’s ready to go, this is a good opportunity to pick up some Listed black type.

     

    3:15 Kempton – Spirit Mixer @ 9/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    Spirit Mixer has had a fair bit of time away from the track over the last two seasons, but with a race under his belt this season, tomorrow looks like a good chance to catch him.

    The six-year-old has a rating of 96, one pound below his mark when second to Trueshan in the 2022 Northumberland Plate and four pounds below his mark when a close sixth in the bet365 Trophy despite an interrupted path through the field.

    Interestingly, the gelding by Frankel has had just two runs over two miles, both of which were promising off a higher mark than his current rating.

    With a few in here potentially needing the run, the booking of Oisin Murphy is a positive and hopefully, he can take advantage of a workable mark.

     

    3:30 Chelmsford – Capulet @ 11/10 with William Hill – 2pt Win

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    He’s a short price, but I think the 11/10 about Capulet with William Hill is a fair price in the £100,000 conditions stakes at 3:30 tomorrow.

    The three-year-old by Justify sets the standard on form having finished second to Diego Velazquez at Leopardstown in the Group 2 KPMG Champions Juvenile Stakes.

    He was also third in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes on his final start of the season, with Ghostwriter and Al Musmak ahead of him.

    The latter was second to Rosallion, a subsequent Group 1 winner, in the Listed Pat Eddery Stakes at Ascot, a race that has seen Ancient Wisdom and Sunway win Group 1s since and Alyanaabi won a Group 3 before his second to City Of Troy in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes.

    As Ryan Moore said in his Betfair Racing column, he will get further in time, but this is a nice pot over a mile to have a stab at and he looks like the best horse in the race.

     

    4:55 Kempton – Desert Cop @ 11/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    Andrew Baling is operating at a 22% strike-rate currently, and I’m taking a chance that Desert Cop is well-treated off 97 on his seasonal return.

    Out of the Cadeaux Genereux mare Speed Cop, who reached a peak rating of 105 on the track, the four-year-old by Oasis Dream is seven pounds below his peak rating of 105 that he achieved as a three-year-old last season.

    He was given a mark of 104 after he beat Shouldvebeenaring at Newcastle in April; the form of that race has worked out well as the second is now rated 113 and came a neck away from winning the Group 1 Sprint Cup Stakes, the third (The X O) is rated 97, the fourth (Michaela’s Boy) was a head away from winning the Irish Rockingham, and the fifth (Perdika) got to within a length of beating Highfield Princess in the Group 1 Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp.

    After that, he ran a cracker to finish second to Shaquille in the Listed Carnarvon Stakes and he then finished a good sixth to Bradsell in the Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes.

    Four poor races later and the handicapper relented, dropping him to a mark of 97 which allows him to race in his first Class 3 handicap.

    Having won first-time-out last season, and with the stable in good form, I think he’s a big price at 11/1.

  • Four to Follow: Irish National special

    Four to Follow: Irish National special

    Racing has been hooked on the actions happening at Fairyhouse this weekend, and it all comes to a climax when Easter Monday signals the return of the Irish Grand National. Legends like Fortria, Arkle, Desert Orchid and Bobbyjo have graced the winner’s enclosure of Ireland’s National race. Who will add their name to the roster today?

     

    Spring Chickens

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    2:40 – O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey Juvenile Hurdle (Grade Two) – Ndaawi @ 2/1 (General)

    It’s not a race that throws up the next big thing in the juvenile division, but it’s a competitive race, nonetheless. Bottler’secret has only had the one run, with the form untested, which leads me to go down the more experienced route.

    Usually, good performing losers of the Boodles at Cheltenham arrive here and Ndaawi is certainly one. He finished a good third to Lark In The Mornin and wasn’t disgraced finishing within three lengths of the winner whilst carrying the second-top weight. Now back on levels Ndaawi can show his class and make a possible claim for the juvenile race at Punchestown at the end of the month.

     

    Devil’s In The Detail

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    3:50 – Rathbarry & Glenview Studs Hurdle (Grade Two) – Thedevilscoachman @ 5/2 (William Hill, BetVictor)

    With the ground heavy, I can’t be having Zarak The Brave. He was underwhelming in the Champion Hurdle on heavy ground and has rarely acted on it. Meanwhile, Thedevilscoachman has been chasing, but has recently switched back to hurdling. He didn’t seem to handle the trip over three miles so stepping back to two-and-a-half will suit him better. Plus, his run behind Sir Gerhard was backed up yesterday and can see him back to winning ways.

     

    Call The Priest

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    4:20 – McInerney Properties Fairyhouse Chase (Grade Two) – Saint Sam @ Evs (General)

    Back from an elongated break, Saint Sam pulled off an incredible win over fences, thrashing Riviere D’Etel by eight-and-a-half lengths. Looking at the field he’s up against today, I can envisage a similar dominant performance. Appreciate It missed the Festival and has never looked himself over fences. Fil Dor was extremely poor when stepped up in trip in the Ryanair and Journey With Me was disappointing on seasonal reappearance.

     

    The Irish Grand National

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    5:00 – Boylesports Irish Grand National (Grade Three) – Where It All Began @ 10/1 (General)

    Where It All Began has been on my books since his win in the trial in February. His run in the Kim Muir may have seemed disappointing, but he was bumped at the second last and the 26 lengths is a bit of an exaggeration. His preference for heavy ground will help him massively and he looks well treated staying on the same mark as he was in the Kim Muir. This race looks to have been the plan for him all season.

    Yeah Man has had a stellar season over in the UK. He beat My Silver Lining up at Haydock in the Grand National Trial on heavy ground but seems to be versatile as he was down three-quarters of a length to Vicctorino at Ascot on good ground. A seven-pound rise in the weights may seem steep, but he looks to be improving with every race. Solid shout at 9/1 (General).

    Novices have a good record in recent years and Senior Chief has been on the improve over the bigger obstacles. He beat Duffle Coat by three-quarters of a length breaking his maiden last time out. But the form from his run in November has worked out a treat. Gaelic Warrior has won the Arkle and Inothewayurthinkin bolted up in the Kim Muir. With form like that he’s a great chance of finishing in the frame. 11/1 (BetUK).

    Street Value has disappointed in recent runs, pulling up twice. However, he won the Porterstown over C&D back in December and as a result he’s only five pounds higher than that run. He’s a good record on heavy ground, despite his last two runs, and the Irish National has a tendency to throw up some big priced winners. Worth a shout at 33/1 (BetVictor).

    The very best of luck!

  • Irish Grand National Weekend | Gordon to be Champ

    Irish Grand National Weekend | Gordon to be Champ

    The Irish Grand National highlights the Easter weekend, though action at Plumpton and the supporting Fairyhouse card is also tasty.

    Before we start, here’s an apology for yesterday’s selections. A few horses massively disappointed – Luxembourg and Pink Legend – though the others just didn’t go well.

    Let’s hope for a turn in fortune over the next few days.

     

    3:05 Plumpton – Sea Invasion @ 3/1 with William Hill – 2pt Win

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    Sea Invasion looked like an interesting bet when connections entered him for a £20,000 handicap hurdle at Kempton in February, but the team ruled him out due to soft ground.

    That race was hotter than today’s assignment, so his 3/1 price looks good on what is his handicap debut.

    In his point-to-point, he finished second to Slade Steel over three miles which is good form even with a pinch of salt applied to point-to-point form, and he then finished behind Jeriko Du Reponet at Newbury.

    However, the form that looks rock solid is his latest start at Kempton. He finished a staying-on fourth this day, though the winner (Court In The Act) has franked the form when second to Fergal O’Brien’s smart Go To War, the second (Onethreefivenotout) won two starts later, and the third (Moon Chime) has won two races since.

    With a family of horses who stayed long distances on the Flat in the blood, today’s first try at two-and-a-half miles looks like a positive one.

     

    3:10 Fairyhouse – Loughglynn @ 14/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    Over in Ireland, the Grade 2 2m4f Novice Hurdle looks interesting, but the overpriced one is Loughglynn for Willie Mullins.

    The six-year-old beat Firefox over two miles on soft ground in a bumper before he ran a good race in the Champion Bumper.

    After that, he bolted up on his hurdles debut before he beat Stellar Story, the subsequent Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle winner, at Limerick in dire conditions.

    Answer To Kayf was also back in third and Search For Glory, a horse who has form with Monty’s Star, was in fourth, so the form of that Grade 2 Novice Hurdle at Limerick looks good.

    The drop back in trip to 2m4f is one I think could work as we know he can stay 2m7f, but he was fading at the finish at Limerick. He has also shown plenty of speed in his bumper days, so there are plenty of things going for him today.

     

    4:15 Plumpton – Aucunrisque @ 13/2 with William Hill (1pt EW) & Our Champ @ 4/1 with William Hill (1pt Win)

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    Chris Gordon and Plumpton is a winning formula that many people know, and he seems to have a strong hand in the Sussex Champion Hurdle with Aucunrisque and Our Champ.

    Starting with the bigger-priced runner of the pair, he is one pound below his last winning mark (which came in the 2023 Betfair Hurdle) and he has seemingly been saved for this race.

    Although this season makes for bad reading, a deeper look into his performances reveals a positive light.

    He ran well for a while in the Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle over a distance too far and his form when third to Soul Icon and Mr Freedom at Fontwell in October has worked out well.

    Freddie Gordon takes off a valuable five pounds, so he should go well here.

    As for Our Champ, Gordon said that this lad was as good if not better than Aucunrisque on the gallops after his Cheltenham win in October and today sees him have his second race after a wind-op.

    Today’s better ground will suit and a mark of 122 looks lenient based on what he did at Prestbury Park in October.

     

    4:20 Fairyhouse – Cadatharla @ 3/1 with Betvictor – 2pt Win

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    The price has diminished quickly overnight which is slightly annoying, but I still fancy Cadatharla in the novice handicap chase at Fairyhouse today.

    The six-year-old is having his first start in a handicap chase after three runs in beginners’ chases, but the way he travelled and jumped through these races was pleasing to see.

    As a hurdler, he bolted up in a handicap hurdle off 109 and then ran well in two handicap hurdles off 122 and 127, the latter of which came when behind Ailie Rose (now rated 13lbs higher).

    He’s won on soft ground and his dam, There Is No Point, won over two miles, so conditions look likely to suit today off a workable mark of 123.

     

    5:00 Fairyhouse (Monday) – Favori De Champdou @ 20/1 with Betvictor (1pt EW) & Hartur D’Arc @ 8/1 with Betvictor (1pt EW)

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    The Irish Grand National has a few interesting contenders this year, but none more so than Hartur D’Arc and Favori De Champdou.

    Starting with the former, he landed success on his first handicap chase start at Naas in the Leinster National smartly.

    The handicapper has put him up nine pounds for the effort, which seems on the sharp side, but he is still unexposed in handicap chases and his profile fits the one of an improving Irish National winner.

    As for Favori De Champdou, connections skipped Cheltenham after his disappointment at Navan and now come here as a fresh horse which should help his case.

    This novice has plenty of talent, as shown by his 14-length Grade 2 success in November, and a mark of 145 alongside Danny Gilligan’s five-pound claim puts him in a competitive position.

    Furthermore, the slow conditions will suit him well and this is his handicap debut.

  • Dubai World Cup | Big price Mille worth checking

    Dubai World Cup | Big price Mille worth checking

    The abandonment of Musselburgh at the 11th hour is a shame, but action from Haydock, Fairyhouse, Cork, and the Dubai World Cup is enough to excite any racing fan.

    It’s set to be soft conditions at most racecourses over in the UK and Ireland while some of the sport’s finest equine athletes will have standard good ground over in Meydan.

    Here are a few fancies from around the grounds.

     

    2:05 Haydock – Playful Saint @ 4/1 with William Hill – 2pt Win

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    Dan Skelton is chasing a first trainers’ title, so it’s worth taking his runners over the next few weeks with strong consideration, especially with a horse like Playful Saint.

    The nine-year-old had a slow start to life as a racehorse, but he picked up nicely for connections in 2022 when second to Love Envoi, a subsequent Grade 1 Mares’ Hurdle runner-up, in a Sandown handicap.

    He then bolted up at Leicester on heavy ground before a good run when behind Iceo in the Imperial Cup Handicap Hurdle off 135.

    That race has worked out well as Iceo, the winner, improved markedly over fences before his fatal injury, Knickerblockerglory, the second, landed a valuable Ascot handicap hurdle, and the likes of Monviel, Hardy Du Seuil, and Djelo were behind Playful Saint.

    His last run behind Milldam was promising on his first outing for 366 days, and with Milldam a non-runner from this race, Playful Saint looks like a dangerous prospect in conditions that should suit.

     

    2:40 Haydock – Picanha @ 5/1 with BetVictor – 1pt EW

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    As long as the bounce factor doesn’t affect Picanha, he looks to have a proper chance in the three-mile handicap hurdle at Haydock.

    The 10-year-old had 660 days off between his win at Warwick in April 2022 and his fourth at Newbury in February 2024, but he ran with credit in a race that has worked out well.

    Emitom, the winner, and Kyntara, the second, have followed up with some good performances in the Pertemps Network Final at the Cheltenham Festival, so the form of his last run is strong.

    Furthermore, he actually beat Kytara by nearly a length at Warwick in December 2021 and his last win came at Warwick over 3m1f, so he should stay.

    Connections have given him 49 days rest which should negate any potential bounce, so Picanha looks to have a solid chance for Richard Phillips with Finn Lambert claiming three pounds in the saddle.

     

    3:10 Meydan – Luxembourg @ 8/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    The race fitness of Luxembourg will give him an edge over a few rivals in the Group 1 Dubai Turf as he is a very classy horse.

    The five-year-old battled in the top Group 1 races all season, landing success in the Tattersalls Gold Cup before a valiant second to the subsequent Juddmonte International winner Mostahdaf at Royal Ascot in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes.

    After a disappointing effort over 1m4f in the King George VI Stakes, he came so close to beating stablemate Auguste Rodin in the Irish Champion Stakes before he put in a joint-career best effort on RPRs in the Group 1 Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin in December.

    Today’s test of 1m1f is slightly different from what he was asked to do last season, but we know he handled eight furlongs well as a two-year-old and the gallop will be strong, so hopefully he can be the one staying on at the finish under Ryan Moore.

     

    3:15 Haydock – Pink Legend @ 16/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    Pink Legend is a quirky mare for Venetia Williams and connections, but she is riddled with talent and her record in handicap chases makes for positive reading.

    The last handicap she raced in was at Cheltenham over two miles at the April meeting where she bolted up off a six-pound higher mark, beating Royale Margaux who ran La Malmason close in a handicap chase at Cheltenham earlier this season.

    Before that, she won a handicap off 129 at Ascot and also won a novice handicap off 127 at Cheltenham, so her mark of 136 is lenient if she can put her best foot forward.

    She disappointed at Cheltenham in the Grade 2 Mares’ Chase and pulled up at Exeter prior to that, but she beat Galia Des Liteaux (a subsequent Warwick Classic Chase runner-up) at Newbury on soft ground in November and her form with Impervious from last season’s Grade 2 Mares’ Chase is strong.

    She may have a target in mind for later in the season, but this winning pot would be one of the biggest pick-ups of her career if she is on a going day, so I’m willing to take a chance that she could bounce back for a yard that is finding form.

     

    4:00 Meydan – Simca Mille @ 40/1 with William Hill – 0.5pt EW

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    The Sheema Classic, like most years, looks like a fascinating contest with the likes of Auguste Rodin, Emily Upjohn, and Liberty Island.

    However, I still think there is more to come from Simca Mille, and at 40/1, he is worth chancing each-way.

    Now with Alban De Mieulle in Qatar, the five-year-old picked up three wins last season but failed to properly find his feet at the top level.

    However, as a three-year-old, his performance when second to Onesto and ahead of Eldar Eldarov in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris is solid form.

    Today, he will happily sit off the pace and try to fly home to pick up the pieces and he should have no problem with the trip. At a big price, it’s hard to dismiss him.

     

    4:30 Fairyhouse – Will Do @ 13/2 with BoyleSports – 1pt EW

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    As much as I hold plenty of respect for Built By Ballymore in a race like this, Will Do is hard to ignore for Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud.

    The seven-year-old has some solid form in the book from his maiden hurdle and bumper days as he finished second to Tullyhill in a bumper before winning a bumper at Cork in a race that had the now 138-rated Answer To Kayf back in third.

    He then bolted up in two maiden hurdles, the most recent of which came at Thurles where he beat Moon D’Orange, a horse who has since finished third to Shanagh Bob in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham before winning a novice hurdle at Market Rasen last month.

    The one query is his last two runs as he was unsighted in handicap company, but the seven-pound claim of Carl Millar should give Will Do a cracking chance at the weights today.

  • Four to Follow: Dubai calling

    Four to Follow: Dubai calling

    As we await the start of the Turf season back in the UK, the legendary Dubai World Cup meeting is back. Plenty of challengers from all over the world come to Meydan to claim the historic prizes on offer. Here we look at the big turf races and the main event itself.

     

    No Frost In Dubai

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    1:15 – Al Quoz Sprint (Group One) – Frost At Dawn @ 15/2 (BetVictor, Boylesports)

    This is possibly the hardest race to predict of the meeting. The key factor is winning at Meydan, whatever the level, and Frost At Dawn matches the description.

    Trained by William Knight, Frost At Dawn has spent the winter in Dubai performing very well winning one and placing in a couple more. He was a dominant winner last time out by two-and-a-half lengths and puts the three-year-old in a good position. as three-year-olds don’t have a great record in the race. But he’s far better value than the current favourite Star Of Mystery.

     

    Luck For Luxembourg

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    3:10 – Dubai Turf (Group One) – Luxembourg @ 9/1 (William Hill)

    Despite not winning a race since last May, Luxembourg has never been disgraced in defeat. His last three runs have him beaten only by two-and-a-quarter lengths and has been extremely unlucky. On paper, it looks like a very winnable race for a horse who has been unlucky in the past few races.

    Voyage Bubble ran a cracker of race in Hong Kong against Romantic Warrior, only beaten by neck on the line. He won the Stewards’ Cup at Sha Tin over a mile earlier in the season and the extra furlong won’t be a problem. He has handled step up to a mile-and-a-quarter very well in previous runs. Should not be discounted at 9/1 (William Hill).

     

    Making A Splash

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    3:35 – Dubai Sheema Classic (Group One) – Liberty Island @ 5/2 (General)

    Everyone will be latching onto the Auguste Rodin factor, which I understand. He was Europe’s top three-year-old and finished with a flourish in the Breeders’ Cup. But chiefly, he’s now a four-year-old and the challenges will be a little tougher.

    Particularly when up against Japan’s top three-year-old from last year who is Liberty Island. Her only blemish last season was finishing runner-up behind the extremely talented Equinox. But a run of four Group One’s, all won in dominant fashion, but Japan’s challenge at number one.

    But if there’s been one horse that has surprised everyone it’s Spirit Dancer. Arguably a shock winner of the Bahrain International Trophy, he went on to win almost £1million in Saudi Arabia for a Group Two. Sandwiched in between was a fourth at Meydan, but at the top level this horse can spring another surprise and round off Sir Alex Ferguson’s Winter of major content. 20/1 (William Hill).

     

    Far East in the Middle East

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    4:35 – Dubai World Cup (Group One) – Ushba Tesoro @ 11/4 (William Hill)

    Ushba Tesoro won this race last year in dominant fashion. He couldn’t follow up in the Breeders’ Cup, but has since won at Listed level back in Japan and was only beaten by a head in the Saudi Cup by Senor Buscador. With the extra furlong in his favour over the American, Ushba Tesoro can follow up and write his name in the history books.

    For what happened in the Saudi Cup, Senor Buscador is overpriced and he can’t be faulted on his recent form. Coming back from disappointment in the Breeders’ Cup he finished second in a handicap at Aqueduct, beaten a neck by National Treasure at Gulfstream and just fended off Usbha Tesoro to win the Saudi Cup. Clearly possesses a lot of talent and his price of 9/1 (BetVictor) should be taken advantage of.

    The very best of luck!

  • Grand National 2024 | Hewick among early runners scratched from Aintree showpiece

    Grand National 2024 | Hewick among early runners scratched from Aintree showpiece

    Hewick and Monbeg Genius were the headline names withdrawn on Tuesday for next month’s Randox Grand National.

    In the first-round cut of runners to be scratched from April 13’s start list, 75 runners were trimmed to 58.

    King George VI victor, Hewick, is once again withdrawn from a marquee contest this season.

    However, the 9yo could switch focus to earlier on Grand National weekend.

     

    Top weight

    It’s now into a fourth month since Hewick’s last outing, his stunning Grade 1 win at Kempton over Christmas.

    Withdrawn from Cheltenham Trials Day in January, the gelding was then taken out of this month’s Gold Cup proper.

    An 18/1 shot for the National, JJ Hanlon made the difficult decision to withdraw the top weighted runner due to recent rain softening the ground.

    However, Hewick’s hopes for Aintree remain, with Hanlon setting his sights on the Aintree Bowl, two days before the National.

    A good mile-plus shorter in trip, if Hewick fares well he could then race back on home turf for the Punchestown Gold Cup to end the term.

    His ultimate goal is still for a third crack at Gold Cup glory in 2025.

     

    Monbeg drops out

    Of the other names to drop out at this stage, Monbeg Genius has been scratched by Jonjo O’Neill.

    Pulling up at the Cheltenham Festival in the Ultima, the 8yo will be denied his debut National bow.

    And, it might be fair to say Aintree bigwigs will be quietly relieved, with owners Michelle Mone and Doug Barrowman at the centre of the PPE scandal.

    Meanwhile, as Gordon Elliott looks to make National history, his total entries are now also reduced.

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    Trainer of two-time winning legend Tiger Roll, Elliott can become the first trainer to bag four winners.

    However, Gevrey, Dunboyne and Diol Ker will not be in contention.

    Longhouse Poet – sixth in 2022 and last year travelled well before falling late – is also withdrawn for Martin Brassil.

    Asterion Forlonge, James Du Berlais, Threeunderthrufive and Letsbeclearaboutit will all also be absent.

     

    April 8th cut

    With just over a fortnight to go until the off, before the tape goes up next month, a further 24 names will be rubbed.

    As safety regulations and horse welfare are tighter than ever, the vast majority of those will be cut on April 8.

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    There, the balloting of horses set to carry the same weight will be decided using their current handicap mark at the time of elimination.

    Following the chaos of last year, organisers hope to avoid further protests.

    As it stands, Corach Rambler remains antepost favourite, now 4/1 with BoyleSports for back-to-back National crowns.

     

    The 2024 Randox Grand National takes place at Aintree Racecourse, Saturday 13 April at 16:00 BST.

  • Doncaster Lincoln Day | Knight in shining armour

    Doncaster Lincoln Day | Knight in shining armour

    The post-Cheltenham blues have finally dissipated in time as today marks the first day of the British Flat season with the Lincoln at Doncaster.

    That being said, action over at Newbury for their jumps finale means National Hunt fans are also satisfied.

    So, with a few fancies from both codes, let’s begin.

     

    1:20 Doncaster – Knight @ 10/3 with William Hill – 1pt Win

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    Knight got the better of Charyn in the Group 2 Celebration Mile Stakes last season, so I’m hoping he can confirm the form in the opening race at Doncaster today.

    Simon & Ed Crisford’s four-year-old finished second to Chindit on his penultimate start last season in the Listed Fortune Stakes at Sandown.

    That form looks solid as Raadobarg (3rd) finished third in the Irish Lincolnshire recently, Breege (4th) finished second in a Listed race on his next start, and Silver Sword (5th) finished second in a Group 3.

    Although he disappointed on his seasonal reappearance last season, connections have applied a first-time visor to keep his mind on the job and I think he can improve past his opponents today.

     

    2:10 Newbury – Kartoon And Co @ 15/8 with William Hill – 2pt Win

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    He’s well-found in the market, but Kartoon And Co looks to have a solid chance in the second race at Newbury.

    Firstly, the Dan Skelton yard is in hot form having picked up 14 wins from their last 55 runners, so he has that on his side.

    As for the horse, his second to Givemefive at Market Rasen three starts ago looks like good form as Givemefive was a close second to Kalif Du Berlais in a Grade 2 at Kempton.

    Today is his second handicap start, but he was unfortunate not to win last time out as his winning effort was probably a case of too little too late.

    Although he is a four-year-old, he gets 12lbs from his elders in the handicap and a racing weight of 10-2 is the lowest weight Harry Skelton has done for at least a year.

    So, with all this in mind, Kartoon And Co should go well.

     

    3:00 Doncaster – Orazio @ 10/3 with BetVictor – 1pt Win

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    As cliff horses go, Orazio was a big one of mine last season and unfortunately, he didn’t repay me once.

    Having backed him as my Royal Ascot NAP in the Wokingham Handicap, he found the ground too quick and could only manage sixth.

    Then, having backed him as my Glorious Goodwood NAP in the Stewards’ Cup, a last-minute downpour saw the ground go against him and he walked over the line.

    Although he finished within three lengths of Significantly in the Ayr Gold Cup, he only finished 11th which makes me think that big-field handicaps are not his thing.

    It seems like connections may agree as although a mark of 100 would see him go well in any six-furlong handicap, they’ve pitched him into Listed company today against six rivals.

    There’s no doubt in my mind that he is a Group horse, so today is the day we find out if he can live up to this reputation.

     

    3:15 Newbury – Condesa @ 14/1 with BoyleSports – 1pt EW

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    Although she has to carry 11-11 on her back, Condesa looks well-handicapped off 123.

    The eight-year-old is certainly the experienced head of the field having had over two years off the track between 2021 and 2023.

    However, before her time off the track, she finished third to Party Central (now rated 140) in a bumper.

    After her 809 days away from the track, she bolted up by seven lengths at Perth before finishing second to Springtime Promise at Sedgefield in January; Springtime Promise has since won a Group 2 and the third from that race, Micks Jet, bolted up at Musselburgh on her next start.

    The ground should suit and she has been backed.

     

    3:35 Doncaster – Lattam @ 12/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    The Lincoln is always a tough handicap to work out, but Lattam looks like one who could run well on seasonal reappearance.

    The five-year-old won the Irish Lincolnshire off a mark of 87 last season when trained by William Haggas, and although his winning margin of a short-head isn’t much, he came from the clouds and was very impressive.

    He failed to properly kick on from this early-season success, but his second to Jimi Hendrix when he was rated 94 looks like good form as the winner has now improved to a rating of 111.

    He goes well fresh and he’ll like the soft ground.

     

    3:35 Doncaster – Dutch Decoy @ 28/1 with William Hill – 1pt EW

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    With the complexity of the Lincoln, it’s hard not to back a couple in the race and Dutch Decoy is the other one I’m keeping onside today.

    Although he is on a career-high mark of 93, he looked better than ever last season and has some good form in the book.

    The first race to focus on is his third to Perotto and Ouzo in the Coral Challenge Handicap at Sandown as Perotto won the Shergar Cup Mile two starts later and Ouzo has won three handicaps since, two of which over in Meydan.

    Dutch Decoy then beat Hafeet Alain and Liberty Lane at Newmarket before they went on to win and he was also a good third behind a well-handicapped Johan in the Golden Mile at Glorious Goodwood.

    He looks to have a favourable draw and a mark of 93 looks workable, so his price of 28/1 is too big to ignore.

  • Four To Follow: Three On The Flat

    Four To Follow: Three On The Flat

    The curtain-raiser of the flat season is back. The Lincoln handicap signals the closing of the National Hunt season as we begin the transition to the speed and ferocity of the flat. Newbury offers the big jumps card of the day as we mix between the two genres in the Spring.

     

    Doncaster

    Shining Armour

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    1:20 – William Hill Doncaster Mile Stakes (Listed) – Knight @ 3/1 (Unibet)

    It was a disappointing season from Knight last season. He promised a lot as a two-year-old, but never hit the ground running in five group races. He was narrowly beaten at Sandown by Chindit, on soft ground which shows he’ll prefer today’s going. With Charyn wanting better ground, Knight can kick start the flat season with his first win since 2022.

    Astral Beau won this race last year, when rated 86 amongst horses rated 100+. Her victory was mainly based on the heavy going, and with heavy in places in the description she’ll relish the test once again this year. 7/2 (General).

    Dashing Roger can also take advantage of the testing ground. He won two races at the back-end of last season on heavy ground, including a handicap by five-and-a-half lengths. Rossa Ryan is an interesting booking, with plenty of placings in recent days. 25/1 (BetVictor, Boylesports).

     

    Barra-full of Cash

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    3:00 – William Hill Cammidge Trophy (Listed) – Baradar @ 3/1 (BetVictor, Unibet)

    Baradar is stepping into level weights for the first time since 2022, when racing in Ireland. He came third in last year’s Lincoln. He managed to win two class two handicaps last season and will not mind the testing conditions. Listed races can sometimes be tricky to negotiate, but this looks like a nice race for Baradar to dominate.

     

    First Big Flat Handicap

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    3:35 – William Hill Lincoln (Heritage Handicap) – Lattam @ 11/1 (Unibet)

    A word on the favourites; The Irish haven’t won this race in 40 years, and it doesn’t look like it will be broken with the Irish Lincoln winner carrying an extra five pounds. Liberty Lane looks a little too high in the weights. Despite being drawn on the far side, he’s on the far rail and only a couple of horses have won from that position.

    I like the look of Lattam, running for the first time under Julie Camacho. He’s a winner of the Irish Lincoln and usually performs well first time out in the season. He hasn’t moved off his mark of 95 but will like the ground and performs well at this time in the season.

    Last year’s winner Migration should go well again. He’s four pounds higher in the weights, but he always is on his A game at the start of the season. David Menusier hasn’t been running many horses during the winter, but given he has a 50% strike rate from running two horses, he is a target trainer and will have prepped Migration for this race again. 16/1 (BetVictor, Betfred, Boylesports).

    Spirit Genie is a live outsider for the race. He performed well at the back-end of last season with a win and a narrow second on similar ground which won’t be a problem. His mark of 86 sees him sneak into to the race, rather than dropping into the Spring Mile. It might be his first time at this level, but Jennie Candlish has managed to win two races from her last five runners at a 40% strike rate. 16/1 (William Hill).

     

    Newbury

    Something’s In The Room…

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    3:15 – British EBF BetVictor “National Hunt” Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Grade Two) – El Elefante @ 11/2 (BetVictor)

    It took four attempts, but El Elefante finally got her elusive win at Ayr, the Friday before the Festival. The form was well franked after her run in the Rossington Main behind Jeriko Du Reponet. But as he disappointed at the Festival, the second and third didn’t. She remains on the same winning mark as before and despite a high weight she has plenty of talent.

    The very best of luck!

  • Notes from Cheltenham 2024 | Corach Rambler on course for National double

    Notes from Cheltenham 2024 | Corach Rambler on course for National double

    As the dust settles on another Cheltenham Festival, Corach Rambler looks on course to do the Grand National double.

    Falling short in the Gold Cup, Lucinda Russell’s 10yo could not make it three-in-a-row in Gloucestershire.

    However, his third spot against the odds was the perfect preparation for Aintree.

    Next month, the son of Jeremy defends his National crown, whilst Russell herself seeks to become just the fourth trainer in the post-war era to have three winners.

    However, Corach Rambler won’t have it easy.

    With just 34 runners to be whittled down from 81 and after their respective Cheltenham trips, who else staked a claim?

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    A Rambling favourite

    With less than a month to go until the 175th running of the Grand National, Corach Rambler appears to be the favourite.

    Currently a 9/2 shot to retain his crown, that goes against all the early antepost, with Vanillier’s 9lb swing over the champ.

    For now, it appears a hugely impressive 14/1 Gold Cup outing behind reigning champ Galopin Des Champs and Gerri Colombe has swayed the argument.

    And on paper, it might be hard to consider otherwise.

    A trip a full mile shorter than his Aintree glory, his fourth outing this season was by the best. There is surely more to come.

    Set to go off on April 12 a similar SP to last year, Corach Rambler is currently a healthy 6/1 favourite with William Hill.

     

    Biding their time?

    Another runner who took third at the Festival, Meetingofthewaters‘ rallying call caught the eye.

    Trainer Willie Mullins may have been hoped for better in the Ultima – in amongst another dominant Cheltenham flush of winners – but a Grade 1 bow offers hope.

    The gelding could be opted out and switch focus to Fairyhouse in April instead, but the relative youngster for this race could yet be given a shot.

    Make no mistake, Meetingofthewaters, should he run, has the stamina to influence matters at Aintree.

    For Galvin, meanwhile, after the Glenfarclas Cross Country was cancelled due to the ground, might Gordon Elliott be biding his time?

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    A three-time National-winning trainer with Silver Birch and more recently, the legendary Tiger Roll, Elliott could make history with number four.

    Though winless since October 2022 at Punchestown, having pushed Delta Work in last year’s Glenfarclas, Galvin remains a threat.

     

    Longer trip big shots

    With the 4m2f trip to contemplate, that may just favour some of the bigger price contenders.

    Kitty’s Light seems to tick that particular box.

    Though lacking the form of last season, a seventh-placed finish in the Ultima was not without hope for Aintree.

    The reigning Scottish National and Vertem winner, the gelding has been second at worst in his three trips of 4m and further.

    The 8yo will want the ground firmer, but punters should rule out Kitty’s Light at their peril.

    In the case of Hewick, meanwhile, his connections also need the weather gods to smile.

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    Forced to withdraw from Cheltenham’s showpiece once more, Hewick seems to have more NR of late than actual results.

    But, as we saw in the King George VI, he has the heart and stays.

    Of the present National starter list, just two enjoyed Cheltenham wins.

    Said individuals being Shakem Up’Arry – finally getting his marquee win – and Gavin Cromwell’s Mares’ Chase winner Limerick Lace.

    However, both would need to step-up in trip significantly to feature.

    If punters were looking for a big price runner to back early doors, Angels Dawn could oblige.

    Denied a run-in against Inothewayurthinkin, the defending champion fell at the last in the Kim Muir.

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    So why might Sam Curling’s 9yo feature in Liverpool?

    Those who saw his run last Thursday would’ve seen a gutsy run and unless the early spring sees a drought, soft or heavy ground would favour.

    If we add to that Angels Dawn placed in last year’s Irish Grand National, the extra distance for a Aintree debut seems no issue.

    The Irish hopeful could contend at a punt of 66/1; the same price as a certain Noble Yeats two years back.

     

    The 2024 Randox Grand National takes place at Aintree on Saturday 13 April at 16:00 BST.

  • Cheltenham 2024 | Gold Cup Day: Selections and Naps

    Cheltenham 2024 | Gold Cup Day: Selections and Naps

    Three Days. 20 Races. 11 Winners. We have been on fire this week. A successful Cheltenham Festival deserves to end on a high, with the 100th Cheltenham Gold Cup in our sights. Plus, some tricky contests both pre and post-race. For the final time this Cheltenham, here’s who I am picking today.

     

    NAP: Mares Chase (Grade Two) – Dinoblue @ 11/8 (Unibet)

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    It’s safe to say that the best two-miler chaser this season, bar the obvious, has been Dinoblue. Ever since her second in last year’s Grand Annual, she’s been ultra-consistent. She picked up two valuable handicaps at both Leopardstown and Punchestown, then was thrown into open company this season.

    She paid back Willie Mullins’ confidence in her when she won Barberstown Castle Chase, then routing the field in the Paddy Rewards Club Chase over Christmas.

    Dinoblue may have finished second to El Fabiolo at the Dublin Racing Festival, but she was six lengths in front of the Champion Chaser 2024, Captain Guinness. She faces a step up in trip, but she should answer the doubters much like Lossiemouth on Tuesday.

     

    E/W BET: 100TH Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (GRADE ONE) – Bravemansgame @ 16/1 (BetVictor, Boylesports)

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    It’s a bit insulting last year’s Gold Cup second at this price. He hadn’t been his fluent self over fences early on this season but showed a better display and a fantastic rally to just edge second ahead of Allaho. We saw the true Bravemansgame that day and Paul Nicholls still believes this horse has it in him to win the Blue Riband race. He won’t mind the soft ground, but 16/1 is odds-on you should never associate with a Grade One winner, and last year’s second.

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    I also fancy a couple of small each-way stakes on both Gentlemansgame and Monkfish. Gentlemansgame beat Bravemansgame at Wetherby and hasn’t been seen since. Trainer Mouse Morris has said he’s been quite hard to train, but this race would’ve been the target for the season. 22/1 (BetVictor, BetUK).

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    Monkfish, anyone remember him? Originally thought he would be going to the Stayers’ Hurdle, Rich Ricci and co suddenly remembered he can jump a fence. He was one of the shortest-priced winners of the 2021 Festival, winning the Brown Advisory at 1/4. His odds were slashed for the Gold Cup the year after, but sadly he picked up an injury that rules him out until the end of last season. This horse has been destined to win a Gold Cup and could produce the comeback of all comebacks at 33/1 (William Hill).

    Having said all of that, Galopin Des Champs wins his second Gold Cup at a canter. 11/10 (William Hill).

     

    Handicap Best: County Handicap Hurdle (Premier) – L’Eau Du Sud @ 4/1 (General)

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    The king of the Cheltenham plot jobs made it two handicap wins with 25/1 outsider Monmiral winning the Pertemps. L’Eau Du Sud runs in the same colours and ran a blinder in the Betfair Hurdle last time out. He was six lengths of the next placed horse and goes up six pounds. A fair rise, but still puts him in great position on the weights. The British are also 5-2 up in the handicap races, which shows you how well they’ve been treated this week.

    King Of Kingsfield comes into the race on a super boost. On his last start he finished behind the Supreme winner Slade Steel and the Gallagher winner Ballyburn. Some form line to come into handicapping for the first time. He’s on the same mark as last time out, which shows that he’ll have to prove he’s just as good as the other two today. He’s got a great chance at 11/2 (Unibet).

    A big-priced shot could be Mr Freedom. Reading Sheena West’s comments, she is extremely bullish about his chances and the form backs it up. He’s finished in the top three of every race he’s completed since June 2023. Some record. Even with a five-pound penalty, he still looks well-treated and will not mind that ground. Small each-way stakes at 40/1 (General).

     

    Selections:

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    13:30 – Triumph Hurdle (GRADE ONE) – Majborough @ 7/2 (Unibet, Betfred, Boylesports), Kargese e/w @ 6/1 (Boylesports), Salver e/w @ 10/1 (General)

    14:10 – County Handicap Hurdle (Premier) – L’EAU DU SUD (HB) @ 4/1 (General), King Of Kingsfield e/w @ 11/2 (Unibet), Mr Freedom e/w @ 40/1 (General)

    14:50 – Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (GRADE ONE) – Dancing City @ 8/1 (Unibet, Betfred, Boylesports), Chigorin e/w @ 11/1 (General)

    15:30 – 100TH CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP (GRADE ONE) – GALOPIN DES CHAMPS @ 11/10 (William Hill), BRAVEMANSGAME E/W @ 16/1 (BetVictor, Boylesports), Gentlemansgame e/w @ 22/1 (BetVictor, BetUK), Monkfish e/w @ 33/1 (William Hill)

    16:10 – Hunter’s Chase – Premier Magic @ 6/1 (General), Billaway e/w @ 9/1 (Unibet), D’Jango e/w @ 66/1 (Unibet)

    16:50 – Mares Chase (Grade Two) – DINOBLUE (NAP) @ 11/8 (Unibet), Allegorie De Vassy (R/F)

    17:30 – Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle – Quai De Bourbon @ 7/2 (William Hill), Better Days Ahead e/w @ 9/1 (BetVictor, Unibet, Boylesports), Yeats Star e/w @ 18/1 (Unibet)

    The very best of luck!