Albion Racing Horse Racing Tips & Info

Man in the Know, our Southern horse racing correspondent, presents his analysis of this weekends major races. He will pinpoint the bookmakers offering the best odds available on the selections advised and will endevour to offer the best service around in our battle to crush the bookies.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DUE TO THE THE HIGH DEMAND AND CONTINUED SUCCESS OF MAN IN THE KNOW THIS SERVICE IS NOW SUBSCRIPTION ONLY. WE HAVE KEPT THE CHARGES REALISTIC AND HOPE YOU WILL SIGN UP AND CONTINUE THE SUCCESS. SELECTIONS WILL BE SENT BY E MAIL DAILY. PAYMENTS BY PAYPAL MOST CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED.

2 WEEKS	2 SELECTIONS	£30.00	PAY HERE
4 WEEKS	4 SELECTIONS	£50.00	PAY HERE
12 WEEKS	12 SELECTIONS	£135.00	PAY HERE

====================================================================

Saturday 22nd March 2008
Doncaster 4:00
William Hill Lincoln (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2)
1 Mile

Blythe Knight remains at the head of the weights at the five-day stage for the William Hill Lincoln. The eight-year-old, winner of the race in 2006, finished unplaced in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham last week and would have to carry 9st 10lb at Doncaster on Saturday. Ante-post favourite Zaahid has stood his ground, along with Sir Michael Stoute's Lang Shining and Mick Easterby's Atlantic Story. John Gosden could be represented by Escape Route, while Derby-winning trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam has entered Don't Panic. Babodana and Very Wise, who won the Lincoln in 2004 and 2007 respectively, are also engaged. Rio Riva, Stevie Gee, Another Bottle and Plum Pudding also appear among the 90 remaining entrants. Raptor finished fourth in last year's renewal and trainer Karl Burke anticipates another good effort this time. The five-year-old was last seen finishing second to all-weather specialist Jack Sullivan at Lingfield last December and Burke expects him to be ready for action. Burke could have a second string in Electric Warrior, although he is far from certain to make the cut off his current mark of 86 and his trainer would not want easy conditions. The draw for the mile cavalry charge is usually viewed as crucial

SUMMARY

This ground will sort a few of these out over this trip. YEAMANS HALL is a lightly-raced sort who will appreciate the soft ground so the rain is not a problem. He ran well in a Group Three at the Curragh last May over one mile three furlongs. A testing mile on this ground could be his ideal trip and with William Buick taking 3lbs off his back he has a live chance. Hopefully the high draw is a good one.

===================================================================

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW. Man In The Know previews all four days of the Cheltenham Festival. Check back daily for the latest updates. Good luck to you all.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday March 1 2008 Newbury 3:15
Connaught Gold Cup Handicap Chase (grade 3) 2m 4f

11 declared. Maljimar, Regal Heights, Nevertika, Natal, Ollie Magern, Bagan, Mister McGoldrick, Nacarat, Kalca Mome, Oneway and Milan Deux Mille. To follow

SUMMARY

Nevertika has won all three starts over fences in good style but now steps up in class into handicap company he may be vulnerable and is overlooked. Maljimara is preferred was very impressive when winning a Grade 3 event at Cheltenham last time out but now races off nearly a stone higher here. NATAL is worth another chance to prove his worth. He gets in here off 10st 8lb but the claimer takes off another 7lb which will help. He is a course and distance winner and comes from the in form Nicholls yard. WON 7/2

=================================================================

Saturday February 23 2008 Kempton 3:15
Racing Post Steeple Chase (Handicap) (Class 1) (Grade 3)

Celestial Gold has been left as the highest-rated horse of the 20 that remain engaged in Kempton's Racing Post Chase at the five-day stage, which means the weightswill rise by 18lb. David Pipe's charge could be joined by stablemates Madison Du Berlais and An Accordion, winner of the Sky Bet Chase last time, while last year's scorer Simon could also feature on Saturday. Kauto Star, Exotic Dancer, Star De Mohaison and Cloudy Lane were among the most notable - if unsurprising - defectors. Henry Daly holds a strong hand with Alderburn and Palarshan still involved, Paul Nicholls can choose from Gungadu and Le Volfoni, while Keith Reveley may run Ungaro, winnerof the 2006 Feltham Novices' Chase at the Sunbury venue. Regal Heights and Dream Alliance have both finished second to Denman this season, in the Aon Chase and Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup respectively, and they too are still engaged. Iron Man, Kelami,Black Hills, Ardaghey, Wee Robbie, Yardbird, Bagan, Burntoakboy and Herecomestanley complete the possibles. David Pipe is set to rely on Celestial Gold in Saturday's Racing Post Chase as he targets Madison Du Berlais and An Accordion at other races.The last-named had been prominent in the ante-post markets for Kempton's £100,000 handicap but will instead be primed for a crack at another valuable prize next month. 21/feb 08: Gungadu has been left with the burden of top weight in the Racing Post Chase after 15 horses were declared for the valuable handicap at Kempton on Saturday. Paul Nicholls' charge heads the list on 11st 12lb after the weights rose by 10lb following the defection of David Pipe's Celestial Gold and Madison Du Berlais. Pipe will not be represented in the three-mile feature after he withdrew Sky Bet Chase winner An Accordion as well. Nicholls will also saddle Le Volfoni as the champion trainer bids to win the race for the first time. Last year's winner Simon, trained by John Spearing, goes for glory again while strong ante-post fancy Ungaro will attempt to take the prize north to Keith Reveley's Saltburn yard. Hennessy runner-up Dream Alliance will try to give Philip Hobbs a fourth win in 10 years after Farmer Jack (2005), Gunther McBride (2002) and Dr Leunt (1999) all hit the target in that period. French trainer Francois Doumen, successful with Innox two years ago, has Kelami this time. Henry Daly, who saddled the victorious Young Spartacus in 2001, relies on Palarshan after he took out Alderburn. The other defector at the final declaration stage was Regal Heights, leaving Iron Man, Black Hills, Ardaghey, Wee Robbie, Bagan, Yardbird, Burntoakboy and Herecomestanley to complete the line-up.

SUMMARY

Gungadu could struggle having to carry topweight here in this competitive field. Strong ante-post fancy UNGARO will attempt to take the prize north to Keith Reveley's Saltburn yard. He was just beaten last time out and can make amends here. FELL

====================================================================

Saturday February 16 2008 Ascot 2:25
Commercial First Ascot Chase (Grade 1) 2m 5f

9 go to post here. Kauto Star, Monet's Garden, Racing Demon, Howle Hill, Fair Along, Vodka Bleu, Lord Killeshanra , See You Sometime and Mystical Star.

SUMMARY

Last race for Kauto Star here before Cheltenham in March. He should be at almost peak fitness for this and will take a lot of beating here even though the trip is short of his best. He drew clear, easily beaten Our Vic won at Kempton last time out and should see off the only horse to have beaten him this season Monet's Garden. Monets was behind Twist Magic last time out over a shorter trip this will suit him much better however KAUTO STAR for me. WON

===================================================================

Saturday 4th Feb
Newbury
AON Chase
3 miles

Denman will face a small field in his final run before the Cheltenham Gold Cup as only 10 entries were received for the Aon Chase at Newbury on Saturday.
Paul Nicholls has also entered Kauto Star in the three-mile event, a race the Gold Cup winner won 12 months ago. However, his preferred target remains the Commercial First Chase at Ascot a week later. Gold Cup third Turpin Green may take his chance for Nicky Richards, while Ferdy Murphy's Another Promise could make his seasonal reappearance.
Ollie Magern is set to comeback after a spell on the sidelines and David Pipe will be looking for a much better showing from Celestial Gold after the former Hennessy winner was pulled up on his comeback over hurdles. Howard Johnson has two possibles, Grand National fancy Bewleys Berry and El Vaquero, while Sue Smith has entered grand sort Mister McGoldrick.
Donald McCain's impressive Ascot scorer Regal Heights completes the list. Turpin Green looks set to take on Denman on Saturday as Nicky Richards plots a return path to the Cheltenham Festival. Owned by Trevor Hemmings, the nine-year-old belied a price tag of 40-1 when third behind Kauto Star in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last year, leaving connections to mull another crack at the blue riband. Turpin Green's resolve has been questioned, yet he has now amassed prize money approaching £200,000

SUMMARY

DENMAN'S victory in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup over these fences in December will be good enough to win this with ease. A copy of his less spectacular success in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown should still be good enough. This is a stepping stone to the clash of the season with Kauto Star in the Gold Cup so we all need him to come out of the race unscathed. Ollie Magern can try and make all and looks the one for the forecast. Celestial Gold has something to prove after pulling up on his seasonal debut. WON

=================================================================

Saturday February 2 2008
Sandown 3.10
totesport.com Scilly Isles Novices Chase
(Grade 1) 2m 4f

17 declared at the 5 day stage.
Enlightenment, Hobbs Hill, Keepthedreamalive, Lead On, Merry Cowboy, Monzon, Nudge And Nurdle, Present Oriented, Royals Darling, Silverburn, The Market Man, Tidal Bay, Verasi, Wee Forbees, Wee Robbie, Pancake and Pur De Sivola. Howard Johnson has yet to decide on a weekend target for his exciting novice chaser Tidal Bay, although he admits he is keen to see how he fares over two miles. The seven-year-old is unbeaten over the larger obstacles and has options at Doncaster, Sandown and Wetherby on Saturday, over distances ranging from two to three miles.

SUMMARY

Hobbs Hill will be a warm order to stay unbeaten over fences but faces this trip on soft ground for the first time over fences. SILVERBURN is a stayer who has won on soft ground and if he makes this a true test from the front he can outstay them on the uphill finish. WON 10/11

====================================================================

Saturday January 26 2008 Cheltenham 3:50
Byrne Bros Cleeve Hurdle Race (Class 1) (Grade 2) 3 miles

Heavy snow in County Durham has left Howard Johnson uncertain whether Inglis Drever will run in the Byrne Group Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham on Saturday. Already without his stable jockey Denis O'Regan, banned for his miscalculation aboard Harringay at Fakenham a week ago, the trainer has been interrupted with preparations for his string which include other major Festival hopes like Tidal Bay and Striking Article. However, Coral have made Inglis Drever, the dual Ladbrokes World Hurdle winner, the 6-4 favourite for Saturday's Grade Two. One who has been busier of late is Labelthou, a game winner at Ascot on Saturday, who was also among the 18-strong field. Alan King's Blazing Bailey, who beat Inglis Drever in the race a year ago, is also entered along with Wichita Lineman and the in-form Lough Derg. Special Envoy has been ruled out of this following a dirty scope.
However, his stable companion Serabad has been given a clean bill of health and is set to be trainer Peter Bowen's first runner for two weeks in the Wragge & Co Juvenile Novices' Hurdle.

SUMMARY

Blazing Bailey won this last year but this renewal looks a lot tougher. Lough Derg will try to make all the running which will set this up for INGLIS DREVER who looked better than ever last time out at Newbury. WON

===================================================================

Saturday 19th Jan 08
Ascot
Victor Chandler chase 2 miles

Tingle Creek Chase winner Twist Magic will face a maximum of seven rivals in Saturday's Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot. The Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old gained favouritism in the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase market with a three-length defeat of Voy Por Ustedes in the Sandown contest in December. Stablemate Hoo La Baloo finished fourth on that occasion and could renew rivalry at the weekend, as could Tingle Creek fifth Ashley Brook. David Pipe has left in Pablo Du Charmil and Boylesports.com Gold Cup winner Tamarinbleu, while Arthur Moore's Mansony could also take his chance. The nine-year-old was winning his second Grade One when proving too strong for Nickname over the Christmas period, in a race that saw Schindlers Hunt take third. Dessie Hughes' charge has also been confirmed for the Victor Chandler, along with likely outsider and 106-rated Pauntley Gofa, who completes the eight-strong list.To follow

SUMMARY

TWIST MAGIC was awesome when he beat Voy Por Ustedes last time out at Sandown. The current favourite for the Champion Chase looks head and shoulders above this field and looks a good thing here.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2.40 Newbury
Ballymore Properties Challow Novices' Hurdle Race
2m 5f

9 go to post.

SUMMARY

ELUSIVE DREAM was 4th a beaten favourite last time out and must be given another chance with the first time tongue tie and with the stable still firing on all cylinders. He won nicely two races before that and can complete three wins for the season. He is the top rated horse in the race and class should tell. 2nd 9/2

====================================================================

Wednesday December 26 2007
Kempton 2:30
Stan James King George VI Chase (Grade 1)
3 Miles

Kauto Star will face a maximum of seven rivals in his bid to land back-to-back renewals of the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. The highest-rated chaser in training returned to winning ways last time at Haydock to set himself up for an
unprecedented repeat of his Betfair Million success of last year. Trainer Paul Nicholls also has a capable second-string in the shape of Ryanair Chase winner Taranis. Jonjo O'Neill's perennial bridesmaid Exotic Dancer will take the champion on once again after coming closer than ever to beating Kauto Star last time. My Way De Solzen, a hugely impressive winner of the Arkle last season but a disappointment at Haydock, could bid to restore his reputation. Racing Demon, third in last year's King George, may also have another crack after a confidence-boosting success in the Peterborough Chase.
Hi Cloy, trained by Michael Hourigan, is the sole Irish challenger at this stage, while Lord Jay Jay could represent Evan Williams following an impressive win at Ascot last time.
Our Vic is likely to make his seasonal debut for the in-form David Pipe. After a sluggish start to the campaign, Pipe now has his yard firing on all cylinders. That fact was illustrated last weekend at Cheltenham when he won both feature races with Tamarinbleu and Osana.

SUMMARY

When KAUTO STAR won this last season I said he would win three King Georges and I still stand by that. He looks a lot stronger this season and he gets better with every race. The only danger I can see is the last fence which he likes to plough through. Any evens should be snapped up. Jonjo O'Neill's Exotic Dancer will take the champion on once again after being flattered with a close second last time out. He has already peaked whilst Kauto Star will be fitter this time out. For an ew bet Our Vic now Pipes are firing. WON 4/6

===================================================================

Saturday December 22 2007
Ascot 1:40
Bgc Long Walk Hurdle Race
3m 1f

Hardy Eustace will face a maximum of 14 rivals in the BGC Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday. Dessie Hughes' dual Champion Hurdle winner will attempt this three-mile-one-furlong trip for the first time in his career, with the outcome likely to determine his Cheltenham target. Chief opposition is likely to come from Jonjo O'Neill's Black Jack Ketchum, who returned to winning ways at Wetherby but was denied a run in the Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury because of soft ground. Cheltenham Festival winner Oscar Park, who was still going well in the Newbury race until falling two out, will again try his hand against the best in the business. Blazing Bailey, who led for a long way at Newbury, is another possible. The vastly-improved Sonnyanjoe supplements the Irish challenge, while Francois Doumen could send Kasbah Bliss over from France. Turpin Green may revert to hurdles after cutting no ice in the Betfair Chase, with Gaspara a possible for the in-form David Pipe team. The field is completed at this stage by Chief Dan George, Hills Of Aran, Lough Derg, Lyes Green, No Refuge, Oscardeal and Special Envoy.

SUMMARY

HARDY EUSTACE will relish this step up in trip and can become the hot favourite for the Stayers Hurdle at Cheltenham in March. His speed as a 2miler has been blunted however this relentless galloper can reign in this new sphere. Black Jack Ketchum will be no pushover but needs good fast ground to be seen at his best. 2ND 5/2

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday December 15 2007
Cheltenham 2:40
boylesports.com Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Grade 3)
2m 5f

Nicky Henderson has revealed that Copsale Lad is set to run in this £150,000 race on Saturday. Copsale Lad also holds entries for the Boylesports International over hurdles and Friday's feature, the £100,000 Listed Boylesports.com Cashback Chase over three miles and a furlong. Copsale Lad is 20/1 with the sponsors, who have seen more money for favourite New Little Bric who is now 9/2 from 11/2 and the firm's biggest ante-post loser. Faasel is alll set to take his chance for Nicky Richards in this. The six-year-old gave the mercurial Black Jack Ketchum an almighty fright in the West Yorkshire Hurdle at Wetherby last month.
But he is set to return to fences this weekend, a discipline at which he is very much unexposed. Faasel is 16-1 with the sponsors for this.
Palarshan's connections plan to take their time before confirming their horse a definite runner. Trainer Henry Daly reckons the nine-year-old is fairly likely to take his chance but wants to make sure he does not ask too much of him at this stage with the bigger picture in mind. Palarshan is an 8-1 shot with the sponsors and was a fine fourth on his seasonal bow in the Paddy Power Gold Cup, despite being hampered by the fatal fall of Granit Jack.
He has produced other terrific efforts at the same course, winning the Grand Annual Chase of 2003 and finishing second in the Racing Post Plate last March on his first start for two years. Paul Nicholls expects a bold show from the well-supported New Little Bric. The six-year-old chestnut was on Monday cut by the sponsors into 11-2 favourite to maintain the Ditcheat team's electric form in high-profile races. New Little Bric, fourth over an inadequate trip at Ascot on his seasonal debut in November, is likely to be joined in the line-up by stablemate Le Volfoni.

SUMMARY

PALARSHAN deserves a change of luck and can lift this nice prize. He was running a blinder in the Paddy Power until being hampered by the fatal fall of Granit Jack. He ran on again finishing well to take fourth spot on the run in. He has produced other terrific efforts at the Cheltenham, winning the Grand Annual Chase of 2003 and finishing second in the Racing Post Plate last March on his first start for two years. 8/1

====================================================================

Saturday 8th December
Sandown
Tingle creek Chase
2 Miles

Moscow Flyer's electrifying defeat of Azertyuiop and Well Chief three years ago was his second success in the two-mile affair, while the incredible Kauto Star has lit up the track in the last two renewals. And this year's event promises to set pulses racingonce more, with reigning Champion Chase hero Voy Por Ustedes among a list of top-notch potential starters. Last year's winner Kauto Star has been entered as a precaution by trainer Paul Nicholls.
The champion trainer is set to run Twist Magic in the two-mile feature, but If Sandown were to come up testing the Ditcheat trainer might 'fall back' on his Cheltenham Gold Cup winner. Hoo La Baloo will definitely run. Voy Por Ustedes heads the sponsors' market at 6-4 after last season's Queen Mother Champion Chase hero was among 14 entries for the Grade One contest. Alan King's charge, the reigning Champion Chaser, went down by a neck to Kalca Mome on his seasonal debut at Cheltenham last month when trying to concede the winner 26lb. Paddy Power bet: Paddy Power bet 3/11/07: 6-4 Voy Por Ustedes, 3-1 Twist Magic, 10-3 Monet's Garden, 7-1 Ashley Brook, 10-1 Mansony, 25-1 Hoo La Baloo, 25-1 Oneway, 25-1 Schindlers Hunt, 33-1 Lennon, 33-1 River City, 40-1 Gemini Lucy, 50-1 Royal Shakespeare and 100-1 Demi Beau.

SUMMARY

Conditions are perfect for favourite VOY POR USTEDES. Soft ground suits him perfectly and he will be spot on after he went down by a neck to Kalca Mome on his seasonal debut at Cheltenham last month. Main dangers Twist Magic and Monet's Garden act on good ground and will struggle on this. 2ND

====================================================================

Saturday 1st December
Newcastle
Fighting Fifth Hurdle
2 Miles

Clopf will join compatriots Jazz Messenger and Harchibald in the line-up for the wbx.com "Fighting Fifth" Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday. Edward O'Grady's Irish raider was considered a live Champion Hurdle contender in some quarters but could only finish fourth of seven in the Maplewood Developments Hurdle at Punchestown this month.
The Grade One-winning gelding will now be given a chance to rebuild his slightly tarnished reputation at Gosforth Park. John Queally believes favourable ground at Newcastle will help Al Eile handle a step back in trip on Saturday.
The seven-year-old is set to line up in the two-mile WBX.COM "Fighting Fifth" Hurdle after finishing a fine fourth on the level in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket last time.
Al Eile is a dual winner of the Aintree Hurdle, and although that race is contested over half a mile further, Queally believes the advantageous ground and track can offset any negatives concerning the trip. Thursday pm: 8 go to post here. WBX.com "Fighting Fifth" Hurdle, William Hill Bet: 11-10 Katchit, 9-2 Harchibald, 11-2 Blythe Knight, 6-1 Al Eile, Clopf, 40-1 The French Furze, 50-1 Mephisto, 100-1 Torkinking.

SUMMARY

Harchibald has won nicely on the flat recently but cannot be relied upon. He won this race in 2004 but has declined since. Clopf has not lived up to expectations and could struggle here. KATCHIT gets the nod here. Despite the poor record of four-year-olds in the race. He is unbeaten in eight of his starts over jumps, including the Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham, and made a pleasing return at Aintree a month ago with victory over Degas Art. William Hill make Katchit their even-money favourite. However, Katchit looked like an exceptional winner of last season's Triumph Hurdle and can win this en route to greater heights.

Saturday 24th November
Haydock
Betfair Chase
3m 2f

Kauto Star will face a maximum of 13 rivals in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday, the first leg of the Betfair Million. Paul Nicholls' chaser, who beat Beef Or Salmon by 17 lengths in the Grade One event 12 months ago, will be looking to give his handler a welcome boost by returning to his brilliant best. Kauto Star lost for the first time in 18 months on his seasonal reappearance in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree when Monet's Garden fought him off, but Nicholls warned at the time he would improve significantly for the run. Nicholls has also entered Royal & SunAlliance Chase winner Denman, but his main aim remains the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury the following weekend. Taranis is another option for the Ditcheat team after his recent victory in the James Nicholson Chase at Down Royal Chief opposition is expected to come from Alan King's Arkle winner My Way De Solzen, who is stepping up to three miles for the first time over fences, and Kauto Star's old adversary Exotic Dancer, who chased him home in both the King George and the Gold Cup Charlie Hall Chase winner Ollie Magern will be hoping to get closer than last year when he could only finish fourth. Ferdy Murphy's Aces Four could continue his build-up towards a crack at the King George, while Madison De Berlais is David Pipe's sole entry. Beef Or Salmon, runner-up for the last two years, is once again entered, along with Charlie Swan's Offshore Account. Cheltenham Gold Cup third Turpin Green may represent Nicky Richards while Monkerhostin could run for Philip Hobbs. Carl Llewellyn's Too Forward and Peter Bowen's Yes Sir complete the line-up

SUMMARY

The doubters are out in force again as KAUTO STAR begins in earnest his season. Nicholls was happy with his debut second and said he will be a lot fitter and will come on bundles. Available at 5/4 and 7/4 for the King George he must not be missed. Alan King's Arkle winner My Way De Solzen, who is stepping up to three miles for the first time over fences can follow him home.

====================================================================

Saturday November 17 2007
Paddy Power Gold Cup
2m 4f

L'Antartique continues to please Ferdy Murphy ahead of his assignment in Cheltenham's Paddy Power Gold Cup next Saturday. The seven-year-old returned to the fray at Carlisle last weekend in pleasing fashion, comfortably beating a small but select field. All roads now lead to Prestbury Park, where L'Antartique enjoyed the biggest victory of his career when winning the Jewson Novices' Chase at last year's Festival. Connections of leading Paddy Power Gold Cup fancies Granit Jack and Abragante face an anxious wait to see whether they will be able to take their chance after 38 horses were declared at the confirmation stage. Henry Daly's Ryanair Chase runner-up Billyvoddan is at the head of the weights followed by L'Ami and Forget The Past for the showpiece of the three-day meeting at Cheltenham. But with only a maximum of 20 runners due to go to post, Paul Nicholls' Granit Jack needs eight to drop out while David Pipe's Badger Ales Trophy winner Abragante needs 14 to fall by the wayside. Other leading fancies to stand their ground include Knowhere, Crozan, Don't Push It, L'Antartique, Bob Hall and Copsale Lad. Among the notable withdrawals were Taranis and Fair Along. Paddy Power Gold Cup; sponsors bet: 4-1 Don't Push It, 5-1 Abragante, Granit Jack, 7-1 L'Antartique, 10-1 Copsale Lad, 12-1 Crozan, Knowhere, Vodka Bleu, 14-1 Bob Hall, Private Be, 16-1 Idole First, New Little Bric, 25-1 Kings Brook, Ponmeoath, Palarshan, Three Mirrors, Royal County Star, 33-1 bar

SUMMARY

13/11/07: With the main pretenders struggling to get in and Dont Push It high in the weights it may be worth a punt on Nicky Hendersons COPSALE LAD. His old age or ten is against the trends but I cant get away from last seasons Paddy Power in which he was running a blinder until badly hampered 5 out and never recovered. He gets in here off 10-06 if the topweight runs and 12.0 on Betfair looks a descent price.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday November 3 2007
Wetherby 3:30
Bet365 Charlie Hall Chase
(Grade 2) 3m 1f

Evan Williams has picked champion jockey Tony McCoy to ride bet365 Charlie Hall Chase favourite State Of Play. The Welshman would usually rely on Paul Moloney for his stable star and then Christian Williams - but circumstances have conspired against him.
However, he has a more than adequate replacement for Wetherby's showpiece event on Saturday in McCoy, who has booted home plenty of winners for the yard in the past.
State Of Play, the 7-2 market leader with the sponsors, seems to run well fresh and won the Hennessy on his first outing of last season before finishing sixth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Demi Beau, who will attempt to go one place better than last year in the Byrne Group Handicap Chase, is also going well.Three points longer in the betting than State Of Play is Ollie Magern, who could have gone for Ascot's United House Gold Cup but seems to prefer it in West Yorkshire. The Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained nine-year-old is two from two at the track, having scored in Grade Two company as a novice and then at the same level when outpointing Kingscliff in the Charlie Hall of 2005.Ollie Magern has failed to hit the target since winning the £90,000 Charlie Hall two years ago, but Twiston-Davies is in a positive mood ahead of his repeat bid.

SUMMARY

STATE OF PLAY goes well fresh and should be able to take this on his debut. He won the Hennessy on his first outing of last season before finishing sixth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. That is top class form. McCoy has been booked so he wont be wanting in the saddle. 7/2 looks a fair price. 2ND 15/8

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday October 27 2007
Doncaster 3:25
Racing Post Trophy (Group 1)
1 mile

City Leader is likely to bid for Group One glory at Doncaster on Saturday following his victory in the Royal Lodge Stakes. Roger Charlton is eyeing Britain's final Group One of the season for the Khalid Abdullah-owned Fifteen Love. Runner-up to Rio De La Plata on his debut at Newmarket in July, he has won his two subsequent outings in good style.Connections of the grey, owned by the Sangster family and trained by Brian Meehan, have had their eyes on the Racing Post Trophy since he won his Group Two at Ascot last month. Sylvester Kirk is praying for rain to boost the prospects of Art Master, who has won two of his four starts, at Kempton and Leicester.It is unlikely Kirk's prayers will be answered as little rain is expected on Town Moor and the going remains good, good to soft in places. A total of 19 horses stood their ground at the confirmation stage, headed by Jessica Harrington's Curtain Call, who has good form with New Approach and is 4-1 favourite with Blue Square. Curtain Call, winner of the Beresford Stakes and three lengths second to New Approach in the Futurity Stakes prior to that, is one of six Irish-trained acceptors. The other five - Achill Island, Alessandro Volta, Frozen Fire, King Of Rome and Washington Irving - are with Aidan O'Brien, who is seeking his fifth success in the race.
Godolphin have two possibles in Ibn Khaldun and Iguazu Falls.
Racing Post Trophy, Blue Square bet Tuesday: 4-1 Curtain Call, 5-1 Ibn Khaldun, 6-1 Declaration of War, River Proud, 7-1 Confront, 8-1 Frozen Fire, Iguazu Falls, King of Rome, 10-1 City Leader, 12-1 Tajaaweed, 16-1 Fifteen Love, 20-1 Ridge Dance, 33-1 bar.To follow

SUMMARY

IBN KHALDUN gets the nod in a tight race. The godolphin horses are in top form at the moment and he can complete a four timer.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday October 20 2007
Cheltenham 2:55
Lady Angela Rooker Memorial Beginners' Steeple Chase
2m 4f

14 declared at the 5 day stage. Admiral Peary, Aldiruos, Bauhaus, Easter Present, Here We Go, Imperial Commander, Mahogany Blaze, Malakiya, Noble Bily, Over The Creek, Paulo Dancer, Self Defense, Star Shot and Tidal Bay.

SUMMARY

If PAULO DANCER can handle these fences then he can make his class tell. He was better than these over the smaller obstacles and jumping can see him progress up the ranks.FELL

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday October 13
Ascot 1:10
Cornwallis Willmott Dixon Stakes
(Group 3) 5f

25 declared at the 5 day stage. Spirit Of Sharjah will attempt to build on a promising first start for Peter Chapple-Hyam in the Willmott Dixon Cornwallis Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. Having won twice for Julia Feilden earlier in the campaign, the son of Invincible Spirit took second in the Flying Childers on his last foray. Subsequent Mill Reef and Middle Park winner Dark Angel was behind Spirit Of Sharjah that day and Chapple-Hyam has been happy with his new recruit's progress since. Connections of Bett's Spirit do not share Chapple-Hyam's enthusiasm for the precipitation in Berkshire but are still likely to unleash their filly if conditions do not deteriorate further. After two promising starts earlier in the season, the Michael Grassick-trained filly got off the mark at the third attempt with a cosy success at Dundalk. The ground at Ascot is currently described as good to soft on the straight course and good to soft, soft in places on the round course. Karl Burke hopes Cute Ass can repeat her recent Doncaster performance in the Willmott Dixon Cornwallis Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. The Fath filly was only beaten two and a half lengths in third place behind Fleeting Spirit in the Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster. The winner has since franked the form by finishing an excellent second to Natagora in the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket. Bryan Smart's Captain Gerrard was three-quarters of a length behind Cute Ass in fourth place at Doncaster while Flying Childers runner-up Spirit Of Sharjah and Cake, who was eighth that day, also renew rivalry in Ascot Group Three over the minimum trip. Saturday's opposition also includes Gary Moore's Hitchens, second to Luck Money in the Goffs Million at the Curragh, Kevin Ryan's Hammadi and the Mick Channon-trained duo Carleton and Thunder Bay.

SUMMARY

CUTE ASS can repeat her recent Doncaster performance. She was only beaten two and a half lengths in third place behind Fleeting Spirit in the Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster. The winner has since franked the form by finishing an excellent second to Natagora in the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket. Ted Durcan takes the ride.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 29
Ascot
Queen Elizabeth II Stakes
(Group 1) 1m

Twelve months ago George Washington proved he had the substance to go with all the hype as he ran out a breathtaking winner. 'Gorgeous George' had won the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket in brilliant fashion earlier in the season, but his bubble burst somewhat when he was turned over by Araafa in the Irish equivalent.All is set fair then for another race to remember as Aidan O'Brien's charge goes for back-to-back wins. It will not be easy with Ramonti in opposition again, but the mercurial colt will raise the roof if he can pull it off. George Washington looks almost certain to miss the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. The mercurial four-year-old was a brilliant winner of the mile contest 12 months ago, beating his Irish 2000 Guineas conqueror Araafa with ease. But his trainer Aidan O'Brien had four other possibles at the five-day stage and the Ballydoyle handler is set to rely on St James's Palace Stakes winner Excellent Art and Irish Champion Stakes runner-up Duke Of Marmalade. William Hill now make Prix du Moulin heroine Darjina favourite ahead of Ramonti, with the Alain de Royer-Dupre-trained filly having beaten both Godolphin's runner and George Washington at Longchamp.

SUMMARY

With main danger George Washington a non runner the path has been left clear for the French raider DARJINA. A last time out win at Longchamp had George washington and Ramonti behind with no excuses. That was over a mile on good ground conditions she will encounter again.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 22 Newbury 4:20
John Smith's Extra Cold Conditions Stakes 1m 1f

Henry Cecil's Multidimensional will limber up for the Emirates Airline Champion Stakes with an outing at Newbury on Saturday. The Niarchos Family-owned colt was one of the key performers in Cecil's return from the doldrums last season, winning three of his four starts.
They included the Group Two Prix Guillaume d'Ornano at Deauville on his final outing, while he did not look at all happy on the track at Goodwood when suffering his only defeat.
There had been high hopes for this season until he picked up a hairline pelvic fracture in April. Cecil has entered Multidimensional in an intriguing John Smith's Extra Cold Conditions Stakes over nine furlongs at the Berkshire track. Alan Cooper, racing manager to the Niarchos family, said: "Multidimensional has been training well and all being well his objective is the Champion Stakes. "Having been off the track since August 2006 we need to give him a run before going for a Group One, and Henry has entered him at Newbury on Saturday." Others who could take a drop down in class on Saturday include Mike De Kock's Oracle West, who was second in the Dubai Sheema Classic, and Mick Channon's top-notch filly Flashy Wings. Meanwhile, Cecil and the Niarchos family's other star, Oaks winner Light Shift, was again confirmed by Cooper for be on course for next month's Prix de l'Opera.To follow

SUMMARY

7 go to post. Multidimensional, Oracle West, Olympian Odyssey, Desert Authority, Arqaam, Great Hawk and New Seeker. MULTIDIMENSIONAL takes a huge drop in class here which should help him win this en route to a crack at the Champion Stakes. He has had his problems and this easier race will help his comeback. Oracle West can follow him home. WON 11/4

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 15 2007
Doncaster 3:15
Ladbrokes St Leger Stakes
(Group 1) 1m 6f

12 runners declared at the 5 day stage.
Acapulco, Celestial Halo, Honolulu, Lucarno, Macarthur, Mahler, Raincoat, Samuel, Soldier of Fortune, Song of Hiawatha, Veracity and Regal Flush. Frankie Dettori rides Celestial Halo in Saturday's Ladbrokes St Leger for owner Jack Hanson and trainer Barry Hills.
The three-year-old returned to form when second to Speed Gifted in the Melrose Handicap at York last time and his handler hopes he can perform with credit on Saturday. Michael Jarvis reports Veracity to be "fit and well" ahead of the Ladbrokes St Leger.
The colt emerged as a leading contender for the final Classic when chasing home Allegretto in the Goodwood Cup last time and the trainer is confident he can cope with the drop in trip on Saturday.

SUMMARY

Thursday pm 10 go to post here: totesport bet: 9-4 Honolulu, 9-2 Lucarno, 11-2 Macarthur, 6-1 Mahler, 8-1 Regal Flush, 9-1 Veracity, 10-1 Raincoat, 14-1 Acapulco, 20-1 Samuel, 50-1 Celestial Halo. MAHLER will take the beating here. He beat Veracity then after a break he finished 5th at York. He needed that run to put him spot on for this. 2ND 13/2

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 8 2007
Leopardstown 3:55
Tattersalls Millions Irish Champion Stks
(Group 1) 1m 2f

10 declared at the 5 day stage. Multiple Group One winners Dylan Thomas and Finsceal Beo are set to clash in the Tattersalls Millions Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown this weekend. It had been thought that Aidan O'Brien was likely to run last year's 2000 Guineas hero George Washington in the 10 furlong event. However, it emerged on Monday that impressive King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes winner Dylan Thomas will be the main challenger from the Ballydoyle stable. Finsceal Beo also has the option of the Matron Stakes on the same card but trainer Jim Bolger has confirmed that she will tackle older horses for the first time. "It will be the Champion Stakes for Finsceal Beo, and while it will be her first run over 10 furlongs, I've no reservations about her getting that trip on Saturday," confirmed Bolger.
"She wants good ground and she should get that on Saturday. I'm very happy with her and Modeeroch, who is an intended runner in the Matron Stakes."

SUMMARY

DYLAN THOMAS will start at cramped odds here but should win easily. The Multiple Group One winner has looked great this season and will be hard to beat. Finsceal Beo will tackle older horses for the first time and looks the only danger. WON 10/11

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 1 2007
Sandown 2:35
Iveco Solario Stakes (Group 3) 7f

Aidan O'Brien has two possible runners in the Iveco Solario Stakes at Sandown on Saturday.The champion Irish trainer is double-handed with Achill Island and Belgrave Square among a total entry of 24 for the Group Three contest over an extended seven furlongs. Both are maidens but have shown promise in two runs each.
Bryan Smart's Royal Ascot winner Maze and John Gosden's brace of Raven's Pass and Young Pretender are in a strong home team. Middleham trainer Mark Johnston has three in the list - Campanologist, McCartney and Lady Jane Digby - while Brian Meehan can
choose from City Leader and Ernie Owl. Richard Hannon has four in the £26,000-added contest - Firestreak and Latin Lad, Redolent and Scintillo. Other interesting
entries include Jeremy Noseda's Captain Brilliance and Gaspar van Wittel from Neville Callaghan's stable.

SUMMARY

Bryan Smart's Royal Ascot winner MAZE has won over this trip, has solid form and is on a hat trick of wins. He has been kept fresh since Ascot and has been laid out for this.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IAugust Goodwood 3.10 totesport.com Celebration Mile (Group 2) 1 mile

8 go to post here. Cesare, Echelon, Blue Ksar, Blythe Knight, Dunelight, Finicius, Selinka and Charlie Cool. Every horse in the field has won a race and this looks competitive. Cesare is respected here however Ryan Moore could ride a donkey to win at the moment so I will side with the Stoute trained ECHELON who has won over this trip. He can regain the winning thread. WON 7/1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

YORK

Tuesday 2.00 Weatherbys Insurance Lonsdale Cup (Group 2) (Class 1) 2 miles

9 declared. Sergeant Cecil, Balkan Knight, Distinction, Mickmacmagoole, Percussionist, Septimus, Anna Pavlova, Juniper Girl and Souvenance. SEPTIMUS, a wide-margin winner on his last visit to York in the Dante Stakes, ran a fine race when second to stablemate Scorpion in the Coronation Cup last time out and with this step up in trip he is favoured to land this for Ballydoyle. Sergeant Cecil can follow him home. WON 6/5

Wednesday 2:00 Ireland Gimcrack Stakes (group 2) 6 Furlongs

8 declared: Swiss Franc, Art Advisor, Great Barrier Reef, Easy Target, Nacho Libre, Sir Gerry, Imperial Mint and Paveroc. SWISS FRANC is after his first Group success and may have found an ideal opportunity. Behind Hatta Fort and Henrythenavigator earlier and on his latest start was an unlucky third behind Winker Watson in the Group 2 July Stakes. Art Advisor ran well in a Group 2 in France and was second to Winker Watson at Royal Ascot previous to that, he rates a danger. Aiden O'Briens Great Barrier Reef faces a tough assignment on debut but has to be respected. 3rd 5/4

Thursday 3.50 York SKF City Of York Stakes (Listed) (Class 1) (3YO plus) 7 f

16 go to post here. WELSH EMPEROR was narrowly beaten by Red Evie in the Group 2 Hungerford Stakes at Newbury over the weekend and deserves to win this listed contest. This consistent sort looks rock solid here. non runner

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 18th August
Newbury
Geoffrey Freer Stakes
Group Three 1m 5f

12 declared at the 5 day stage. Anna Pavlova, Balkan Knight, Classic Punch, Land 'n Stars, Mull of Dubai, Papal Bull, Peppertree Lane, Purple Moon, Shahin, Steppe Dancer, The Whistling Teal, Turbo Linn
To follow

SUMMARY

This has cut up badly and looks a penalty kick for PAPAL BULL. WON 6/4

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GLORIOUS GOODWOOD

TUESDAY 2.50 GORDON STAKES GROUP THREE 1m 4f

Aidan O'Brien will give the first clue to his pecking order for the final Classic of the season when he runs Honolulu and Yellowstone in this. Ballydoyle has a stranglehold on the ante-post market for the Ladbrokes St Leger with three of the first four in the betting - Soldier Of Fortune, Mahler and Macarthur. Honolulu, winner of his last two starts, is not far behind that trio at 12-1 for the Leger with the sponsors while Yellowstone, not beaten far when fourth behind Notnowcato in the Eclipse Stakes, is a 14-1 chance. 16 declared including Derby third Aqaleem, the second favourite for the Leger, who is being targeted at this race and the Great Voltigeur at York by his trainer Marcus Tregoning.

SUMMARY

YELLOWSTONE was not beaten far in the Eclipse at Sandown last time out and can take this for the Ballydoyle team. He is 14/1 for the St Leger and that price will be slashed when he wins this. Heron Bay was beaten by Lion Sands at Haydock but he went on to win in handicap company at Royal Ascot. They both have place claims. WON 7/2

WEDNESDAY 3.30 SUSSEX STAKES 1 mile GROUP ONE

9 declared. Asiatic Boy, Dark Islander, Decado, Jeremy. Munaddam, Ramonti, Archipenko, Excellent Art and Trinity College.
Excellent Art was installed narrow favourite to prevail over Godolphin's Ramonti in this Group One over a mile. Aidan O'Brien left in three challengers, but signalled Excellent Art was the most likely to bid to add to his only previous win in the race with Rock Of Gibraltar, who also won the St James's Palace Stakes. Jamie Spencer, in the saddle at Ascot, is set to keep the rideIf conditions remain good to soft, Irish representation in the race could also include Decado. Trainer Kevin Prendergast said: “If the ground stays on the easy side he'll run. He came out of his last race well and there are not many options for him.

SUMMARY

This looks a match between Godolphins Ramonti and O'Briens Excellent Art. The latter is following the same path as Rock Of Gibraltar, who also won the St James's Palace Stakes. EXCELLENT ART is the main hope from three entries and gets the vote. 2ND 15/8

THURSDAY 3.25 ABN Amro Goodwood Cup 2 Miles GROUP ONE

13 declared. Geordieland, Distinction, Allegretto, Baddam, Balkan Knight, Rayhani, Bulwark, Finalmente, Greenwich Meantime, Land 'n Stars, Falpiase, Foxhaven, Baizically

SUMMARY

GEORDIELAND is given one more chance to set the record straight. The race must be run to suit so stablemate Baizically has been entered to set a true pace. He will never get a better chance.

SATURDAY 3.20 GOODWOOD Blue Square Nassau Stakes GROUP ONE 1m 2f

8 declared:Mandesha, Peeping Fawn, Light Shift, Nannina, Yaqeen, Speciosa, Dont Dili Dali, Sweet Lilly. Light Shift, Peeping Fawn and ante-post favourite Mandesha are set to star in a fascinating clash of the generations in this. The first-named pair are locked at one-all in head-to-heads this season, having won the Epsom Oaks and Irish Oaks respectively.
Alain de Royer-Dupre's Mandesha, a three-time Group One winner last term, will be reverting to 10 furlongs after chasing home Mountain High in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud last time. Royal Ascot winner Nannina will represent John Gosden, while last season's 1000 Guineas heroine Speciosa will run for Pam Sly. However, Jim Bolger's star filly Finsceal Beo, winner of this year's one-mile English and Irish Classics, will not take her chance and is the only defector at the 48-hour stage. Her absence leaves Yaqeen, Sweet Lilly and Dont Dili Dali to complete the eight-runner line-up.

SUMMARY

Man of the moment Aiden O. Brien can lift the last Group one of the meeting with the three year old PEEPING FAWN. He looks a much better horse last time out when defeating Light Shift and still looks to be improving. The track and small field will also suit his running style. WON 2/1

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 28th July
3.45 Ascot
totesport.com International Heritage Handicap
(Class 2) 7 Furlongs

Only 29 of the 45 entries fore the £150,000 Totesport.com International Stakes will get a run and they are headed by Gay Kelleway's admirable campaigner Vortex with top-weight of 9st 7lb. The majority of the other leading ante-post fancies stood their ground, including King Of Argos, Binanti, Ordnance Row and Arabian Gleam - one of two possible runners for Jeremy Noseda along with Mac Love. David Barron has three potential representatives in Skhilling Spirit, Ingleby Arch and Partners In Jazz, while John Hammond could send Sentinelese over from France. Andrew Balding took out his Wokingham winner Dark Missile, who will now wait for next month's Shergar Cup meeting. John Dunlop's Shmookh, another at a short price, is almost at the bottom of the weights and will need more than a dozen to dropout before the weekend to get a run. Thursday: The ever-competitive seven-furlong handicap has attracted a full field of 29. Among the hopefuls is Hughie Morrison's Intrepid Jack, second in the Wokingham at the Royal meeting, and the Pat Chamings-trained Binanti, who won the Buckingham Palace Stakes. Giganticus will bid to repeat his recent Bunbury Cup heroics, while Jim Goldie's Dhaular Dhar will aim to make up three-quarters of a length on Newmarket form. Dhaular Dhar flew home late last time and his handler hopes for another bold show over Ascot's stiff seven furlongs.

SUMMARY

WISE DENNIS will relish this softer ground and was an eyecatcher last time out when finishing strongly over course and distance behind Binanti beaten a couple of lengths. Hughie Morrison's Intrepid Jack, was second in the Wokingham at the Royal meeting and must go close. Giganticus will bid to repeat his recent Bunbury Cup heroics but may find this ground too soft for him.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday July 21
Newbury 3:25
Weatherbys Super Sprint
2yo only, 5f

Richard Hannon will launch his usual strong assault for which 31 possibles remain.
He has six entries at the five day stage, Cracking, Reel Gift, Don't Tell Anna, Cake, Ronsai and Penrice Castle. Hannon has had 6 winners of this race.
The weights are headed by Jamie Osborne's Royal Ascot winner Drawnfromthepast, who won the Windsor Castle by a head. Neville Callaghan's Red Alert Day and George Margarson's Magical Speedfit, a half-brother to Hoh Mike, are also towards
the head of the weights. The in-form Bryan Smart could saddle Guertino, who finally broke his maiden at the fourth time of asking at Carlisle, while Clive Brittain has two possibles in the shape of Jebel Tara and Mansii.
Karl Burke could run Scanno and Ponder Anew, while Stan Moore could also be doubly represented with Dubai Dynamo and Miss Versatile.
Ed Vaughan's Fanatical, eighth in the Queen Mary, and John Jenkins' Spitfire, unplaced behind Winker Watson in last week's July Stakes are other interesting possibles.

SUMMARY

ABANDONED----------ABANDONED----------ABANDONED----------

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday 1st July Budweiser Irish Derby 1m 4f

Vodafone Derby third Aqaleem will sidestep Sunday's Budweiser Irish Derby at the Curragh.
Trainer Marcus Tregoning has decided to take the traditional route to the St Leger in September instead, with Goodwood's Gordon Stakes and the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York likely targets. Kieren Fallon believes Eagle Mountain is ready to put in another big performance in the Budweiser Irish Derby at the Curragh on Sunday. Aidan O'Brien's charge was second to Authorized in the Vodafone-sponsored English equivalent earlier in the month when partnered by Johnny Murtagh. And Fallon, who has ridden the son of Rock Of Gibraltar in his work at Ballydoyle, has been quietly impressed with what he has seen.

SUMMARY

12 entered. EAGLE MOUNTAIN ran a blinder in the English Derby and looks a good thing here. The son of Rock Of Gibraltar should be at peak fitness for this test.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ROYAL ASCOT

Sat June 23 - Ascot
3:05 Hardwicke Stakes (Class 1) (Group 2) (1m 4f) 8 go to post here. Scorpion , Maraahel, Linas Selection, Blue Bajan , Mighty, Admiral's Cruise, Akarem, Diamond Quest. After a great week for Ballydoyle look no further than SCORPION to lift the prize. 2ND 3/1
3:45 Golden Jubilee Stakes (Class 1) (British Leg Of Global Sprin (7f) Miss Andretti won well in the week breaking the course record however this is a furlong further and on softer ground. Fellow Australian-raider TAKEOVER TARGET will get closer over this distance and is well worth a punt. 2ND 8/1
4:25 Wokingham Stakes (Class 2 Heritage Handicap) (6f) The draw could be the downfall of the favourite Zidane here. High numbers lok the order of the day and INTREPID JACK looks the order of the day from his favoured high draw. 2ND 11/1

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 2nd June
Epsom Derby
Group One 1m 4f

Authorized heads 19 confirmations for this. The colt is a hot favourite to give jockey Frankie Dettori his first victory in the world-famous Classic after gaining an impressive success in the Dante Stakes. Peter Chapple-Hyam's charge romped home by four lengths on his seasonal debut in the Group Two contest at York and he will bid to give the trainer his second Derby win after Dr Devious in 1992. Aidan O'Brien, successful with Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002), still has eight in the race - Acapulco, Admiralofthefleet, Anton Chekhov, Archipenko, Eagle Mountain, Mahler, Soldier Of Fortune and Yellowstone.
His one withdrawal is Chinese Whisper while Saeed bin Suroor may rely on Eastern Anthem after Godolphin withdrew Jalil and Mythical Kid.
There were no supplementary entries after John Gosden decided against adding Dante runner-up Raincoat to the field. He is likely to take his chance in the French version instead but Gosden could still be represented by Lucarno.
Marcus Tregoning, successful 12 months ago with Sir Percy, relies on Aqaleem, while Sir Michael Stoute's sole representative is Arabian Gulf.
Other notable entries include Regime, Salford Mill and Strategic Prince.

SUMMARY

The rain has eased the ground which has fallen just right for current hot favourite AUTHORISED. His price will contact as the week develops and with Dettori on board he could go off the shortest price for many a year. This will come down to who stays the best and the favourite ticks all the right boxes. WON 5/4

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday May 17 2007
York 2:45
totesport.com Dante Stakes
(Group 2) 1m 2f

13 declared at the 5 day stage. Al Sagar. Al Shemali, Archipenko, Authorized, Bayonyx, Prince Golan, Proponent, Raincoat, Salford Mill, Strategic Prince, Traffic Guard, Wheels In Motion, Yellowstone. Frankie Dettori has unexpectedly been given a fantastic opportunity to land his first ever Vodafone Derby after getting the call-up to ride Epsom favourite Authorized in the Dante Stakes at York on Thursday.Authorized is as short as 7-2 with Coral for the Derby and the colt is owned like last year's dual Group One winner Araafa, by Saleh Al Homaizi and Imad. The Racing Post Trophy winner, who will be making his seasonal debut, is among a field of six in the Group Two contest.
The colt is reported to be in fine shape by his trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam. The going is of concern to John Gosden, who warns that Blue Riband trial winner Raincoat will only run if the ground is suitable. Sir Michael Stoute has declared both 2000 Guineas failure Adagio and Al Shemali while the field is completed by Roger Charlton's unbeaten Proponent and Prince Golan, trained by Kevin Ryan. Prince Golan was last seen making the pace in the Racing Post Trophy before finishing a well-beaten last on the heavy ground at Newbury.
Ryan accepts that Prince Golan faces a stiff test on his reappearance.

SUMMARY

6 go to post. Authorized, Adagio, Proponent, Raincoat, Al Shemali and Prince Golan. Ante-post Derby favourite AUTHORIZED returns to action here and impressive Craven winner Adagio is stepped up in trip after failing to figure in the 2000 Guineas. AUTHORIZED gets the nod and any even money looks a gift.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

May 5th Newmarket
2000 Guineas
1 Mile Group One

Well-backed French raider US Ranger has been supplemented for this. The Michael Tabor-owned colt was as low as 6-1 with the sponsors after a sustained gamble through April and connections have elected to pay the £25,000 required to add him to the field. There were no major surprises in the 30 runners confirmed at the five-day stage, which include Jim Bolger's long-term ante-post favourite Teofilo and Sir Michael Stoute's Craven Stakes winner Adagio. All the other leading fancies remain involved, including Strategic Prince, impressive Newbury maiden winner Diamond Tycoon and Greenham Stakes first and second Major Cadeaux and Dutch Art. Aidan O'Brien still has the choice of running Duke Of Marmalade, Eagle Mountain, Mount Nelson and Yellowstone to take the first British Classic for a third year in a row.
Stan James 2000 Guineas, sponsors bet 30/04/07:
9-4 Teofilo, 3-1 Adagio, 6-1 Major Cadeaux, US Ranger, 8-1 Diamond Tycoon, 10-1 Strategic Prince, 12-1 Haatef, 14-1 Dutch Art, 20-1 Cockney Rebel, Mount Nelson, 25-1 Truly Royal, 28-1 Duke Of Marmalade, 33-1 Tobosa, 40-1 Vital Equine, 50-1 Eagle Mountain, 66-1 bar.

SUMMARY

MAJOR CADEAUX looked terrific last time out at Newbury in the Greenham Stakes over 7 furlongs. He put Dutch Art in his place and won nicely. The step up to a mile will suit and he is sure to come on for that debut run. Teofilio rates a big danger. Ubeaten in 5 runs last season the step up to a mile should not be a problem though the fast ground might. This could be the quickest ground he has faced. Adagio beaten once in three starts and that was by Teofilio in the Dewhurst. He started slowly that day and should be a lot closer here. Teofilio is now a non runner.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 28th April
Sandown
Betfred Gold Cup
3m 5f

19 declared at the 5 day stage. My Will heads the 19 horses that remain engaged in Saturday's Betfred Gold Cup at the five-day confirmation stage.
Second last time out in the Betfair Bowl, the seven-year-old is one of four Paul Nicholls-trained possibles, with stablemates Royal Auclair, Cornish Sett and Sweet Diversion also still in the race. Reveillez bounced back to his best when stepped up in trip at Aintree last time and he could take his chance at Sandown, along with the Venetia Williams-trained duo Mon Mome and Fair Question.
Grand National plunge horse Monkerhostin has stood his ground, although he has also been declared to run in Wednesday's Punchestown Guinness Gold Cup.
Nick Gifford's Wee Robbie, Henry Daly's Alderburn and Scottish Grand National hero Hot Weld head the other notable confirmations for the end-of-season showpiece.
Irish hopes will rest with Jack High and the Charlie Swan-trained Oodachee after Point Barrow was among the notable defections.

SUMMARY

Look no further than HOT WELD who can follw up last weekends win by leading from pillar to post here. This course will suit his style of running and he can jump these into the ground. WON 6/1

21st April
Ayr
Scottish grand National

Halcon Genelardais heads the 45 horses to stand their ground in the Coral Scottish Grand National at the five-day confirmation stage.
Alan King's Welsh National winner now tops the weights for the valuable Ayr handicap after My Will, State Of Play Eurotrek and L'Ami defected. Those four were all in action at Aintree last week, as was Billyvoddan, who remains engaged in Saturday's race and is next in the weights. Henry Daly's charge is one of three possibles for owner Trevor Hemmings, who also has Juveigneur and Idle Talk still in the race. Ante-post fancies Nine De Sivola and Character Building could still run, while last year's hero Run For Paddy may bid for back-to-back successes. Other interesting candidates at this stage include Nick Gifford's Wee Robbie, a resurgent Baron Windrush and Rambling Minster, winner of the Agfa Diamond Handicap Chase in February. According To John and Irish National hero Butler's Cabin were also among the more notable defections.
Nine De Sivola found only Butler's Cabin too good at Fairyhouse last week and has reportedly experienced no ill effects after that prominent display.
The six-year-old currently sits some way down in the list of horses still engaged in the race, but Murphy feels he is likely to sneak into the valuable handicap.

SUMMARY

The progressive CHARACTER BUILDING ran Irish National winner Butler's Cabin to less than a length at Cheltenham and has come in for a lot of support for this event all week. He has won on good-firm and has a good 3lb claimer up to help with the weight. The money is down.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday Newcastle 3.55 William Hill Lincoln Heritage Handicap
1 Mile

Our impressive winner last Saturday Gentlemans Deal is a worthy favourite after his prep race at Lingfield. He comes into the race bang in form and fully fit.Richard Fahey is hoping Bolodenka can bounce back to winning ways in this.
The Malton handler is also set to saddle Mutawaffer in the turf season's traditional curtain raiser and has high hopes that both will run big races. But it is Bolodenka, who performed with credit twice at the recent Dubai Carnival, who has the Irishman dreaming of a first Lincoln. Mutawaffer finished seventh in the Dante Stakes at York as a three-year-old for Barry Hills behind subsequent Derby winner North Light. The ground is generally good to soft, with a soft patch between the eight and six furlong poles.
William Hill Lincoln; totesport bet: 8-1 Gentleman's Deal, Rio Riva, 11-1 Blythe Knight, 12-1 Zero Tolerance, Tanzanite, Very Wise, 14-1 Bolodenka, My Paris, 16-1 Capable Guest, Crooked Throw, 20-1 Collateral Damage, Granston, Impeller, Raptor, 25-1 bar.

SUMMARY

GENTLEMAN'S DEAL was on Thursday handed a sought-after high draw for Saturday's Lincoln at Newcastle, driving his odds to as low as 5-1 favourite as trainer Mick Easterby predicted his fairytale horse would win.
With pace all around him, Easterby's principal runner will have plenty of cover in stall 15, giving him the chance of a lead on what may be the best part of the track. All he has to do is reproduce his all-weather form on turf.

Saturday March 24 2007
Lingfield 3:15
lingfieldpark.co.uk Winter Derby
(Group 3) 1m 2f

15 declared at the 5 day stage.
Sylvester Kirk is hoping lightning can strike twice with Sri Diamond in this.
The lightly-raced seven-year-old beat Grand Passion by half a length 12 months ago under a great ride from Jamie Spencer and Kirk is hoping for the same result again.
He was upped in trip afterwards to take on the likes of Mubtaker and Sergeant Cecil in the John Porter Stakes, finishing 11th of 11 runners, although Kirk blames himself for the below-par run and he bounced back to form when beating Millville at Lingfield back in January.
Alfie Flits will be competing on the Polytrack for the first time if he takes his chance.
His trainer Alan Swinbank said: "He's very, very well, but it is the first time he will have run on that surface.
Trainer Clive Brittain is hopeful of a good run from Hattan, who returned after a winter campaign in Dubai a week ago. The five-year-old is fit and well from four runs at Nad Al Sheba, where he was third to Book Of Music on his final start.
Andy Turnell's Blue Bajan will be looking to end a frustrating run of seconds after chasing home Formal Decree, Nayyir and Cusoon, who reoposes, on his last three starts.
Betdirect Winter Derby, sponsors bet: 11-2 Illustrious Blue, Sri Diamond, 6-1 Blue Bajan, Gentleman's Deal 7-1 Cusoon, 8-1 Hattan, 10-1 Cimyla, 11-1 Orchard Supreme, Alfie Flits, 14-1 Red Spell, 16-1 Grand Passion 20-1 Luberon, 33-1 Boo, Speedy Sam.

SUMMARY

A high-class looking field lines up for this 10-furlong contest. Blue Bajan will be looking to end a frustrating run of seconds after chasing home Formal Decree, Nayyir and Cusoon, so thats runner up spot sorted out. GENTLEMANS DEAL
splits his time between racing and stallion duties and certainly seems to relish his regime judged on his facile success at Kempton last month.
He destroyed some good opposition to claim a Listed prize in a record time and follow up on two previous easy wins at Southwell. WON 4/1

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday March 3 2007
Newbury 3:15
vc casino.com Gold Cup Handicap Chase
(Grade 3) 2m 4f

15 declared at the 5 day stage. Paul Nicholls' in-form Nozic is 4-1 favourite with the sponsors for the VC Casino.com Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday.
The six-year-old is on a hat-trick after winning twice in three days earlier this month, at Chepstow and Uttoxeter. While he is the champion trainer's only entry in the £80,000 handicap chase, David Pipe has five possibles from the list of 21. The Nicholashayne handler can choose from It Takes Time, Madison Du Berlais, Marcel, Tamarinbleu and Vodka Bleu for the two-and-a-half-mile feature.
Jackdaws Castle trainer Jonjo O'Neill can choose from his trio of Bold Bishop, Garde Champetre and Hasty Prince. Another trainer with three entries is Venetia Williams through Flying Enterprise, Kelrev and Mambo Des Mottes, while Philip
Hobbs has two, Kalca Mome and Supreme Prince.
VC Casino.com Gold Cup, sponsors bet: 4-1 Nozic, 7-1 Hasty Prince, 8-1 Supreme Prince, 9-1 Flying Enterprise, Marcel, 10-1 Kalca Mome, Tamarinbleu, Vodka Bleu, 12-1 Mister McGoldrick, 14-1 Garde Champetre, Madison Du Berlais, 16-1 bar.

SUMMARY

Course and distance winner MARCEL looks well weighted to complete his fourth win of the season. He heads a team of three from the Pipe yard who entered five earlier in the week. Timmy Murphy takes the ride, conditions suit, and the hat rick of wins is on.

Saturday February 24 2007
Kempton 2:35
Racingpost.Co.Uk Pendil Novices' Steeple Chase
(Class 1) (2m 4f

17 runners declared at the 5 day stage.
Arumun, Classified, Dunsfold Duke, Dusky Warbler, Faasel, Garde Champetre, Good Spirit, Heez A Dreamer, Il Duce, Limited Edition, Natal, Percussionist, Rasharrow, Turnstile, Ungaro, Ursis, Yes Sir.

SUMMARY

Natal, Good Spirit, Ursis, Classified, Il Duce, Yes Sir and Dunsfold Duke. This is a competitive little race and NATAL will need to be at his best to dispose of these. Classified looks the main danger and is still progressing nicely however NATAL should have his measure. WON 5/2

Saturday February 17 2007
Ascot 1:45
John Smith's Reynoldstown Novices Steeple Chase
(Class 1) 3 Miles

17 declared at the 5 day stage.

SUMMARY

Only 7 go to post here. Gungadu, According To John, Over The Creek, Jaunty Times, Imperial Sun, In Accord and Wee Robbie. GUNGADU faces his stiffest test to date here but came come through and head the market for the Sun Alliance at Cheltenham in March. His only defeat came against the useful Boychuk back in November but he has had easy wins either side of that. Make no mistake this is a great race to win and it will be a terrific win giving weight away too all. WON 4/7

1.25 Haydock
bonusprint.com Champion Hurdle Trial
(Grade 2) (Class 1) 2 Miles

8 go to post here. Afsoun, Mounthenry, The French Furze, Mister McGoldrick, Torkinking, Arcalis, Overstrand and Milligan. The French Furze continues to perform with credit and should snatch a place. AFSOUN was very impressive on his debut on soft ground at Newbury in November and, despite falling in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day should have too much class for these.

SUMMARY

AFSOUN to fulfill the early promise he showed and emerge as a real Champion Hurdle contender.

Warwick Saturday 13th jan
totesport.com Classic Chase
3m 5f

Sir Rembrandt, D'Argent, Tana River, Ladalko, Mon Mome, Kinburn, Naunton Brook, Bannow Strand, L'Aventure, Ross Comm, Baron Windrush, Undeniable, Snakebite,
Hautclan, Touch Closer, Strike Back, Dunbrody Millar, Keepatem, Howrwenow,
Sharp Belline, Heltornic, Mr Dow Jones, Victory Gunner, Moorlands Again, Dublin Hunter.Stamina will be at a premium on testing ground and over this extended trip.
Last year's renewal of the £70,000 event attracted a particularly strong field and saw subsequent Becher Chase winner Eurotrek dish out a 15-length beating to the talented Sir Rembrandt. Sir Rembrandt heads the list of 15 horses declared for this. Robert Alner's 11-year-old, runner-up in 2006, must defy top weight of 11st 12lb if he is to emerge successful in the gruelling but valuable affair. Also set to take his chance, should the course beat the weather, is Alan King's ante-post favourite D'Argent, who returned to action with a gutsy success at Cheltenham last time.
The progressive Tana River has stood his ground along with the Paul Nicholls-trained Ladalko, who will be joined by stablemate L'Aventure.
Mon Mome will bid to go one better than when second in the Welsh National last time, and will renew rivalry with vanquished Chepstow rivals Naunton Brook and Kinburn here.
Baron Windrush, successful in 2005 but out of form since, will also take up the challenge along with Hautclan, Touch Closer, Strike Back, Mr Dow Jones, Heltornic and Moorlands Again.
Conditions at the course are currently described as Heavy and the meeting is in doubt.

SUMMARY

Ladalko stays forever and the Walsh Nicholls combination must be feared. However his jumping has been letting him down this season so he is worth opposing. Haultclan has not been disgraced since his return to action and remains on an attractive handicap mark, should be in the shake up. My idea of the winner is MON MOME. He will bid to go one better than when second in the Welsh National last time, and will renew rivalry with Chepstow rivals Naunton Brook and Kinburn who were behind that day. He will improve on that run as he is fresh (only had 2 runs this season) and V Williams has put Sam Thomas up (last 2 runs claimer ridden). He stays well and will love a slog through the mud.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 30 Dec 2006
1:15 Ascot,
Press Red For Atr Active Novices Steeple Chase
2m 5f (Class 3)

14 declared at the 5 day stage. According To John, New Little Bric, Ungaro,
Flying Enterprise, Gaelic Flight, Hoh Viss, Mr Pointment, Pole Star, Royal Katidoki,
Hashid, Moncadou, Nippy Des Mottes, Pretty Star, Raffaello.

SUMMARY

FLYING ENTERPRISE can get the better of Pole Star in on paper looks like a match. Pole Star could also struggle on this ground. WON 3/1

Kempton Boxing Day
King George V1 Chase
3 Miles Grade One

37 early entries. Ashley Brook, Ballycassidy, Bob Bob Bobbin, Celestial Gold, Commercial Flyer,Cornish Sett, Exotic Dancer, Fota Island, Fundamentalist, Halcon Genelardais, Hi Cloy Impek, In Compliance, Kauto Star, Kelami, Knowhere, L'ami, Lacdoudal, Mid Dancer, Missed That, Mister McGoldrick, Monet's Garden, Monkerhostin, Montgermont,
Neptune Collonges, Ollie Magern, Our Ben, Presenting Express, Puntal, Racing Demon
See You Sometime, Star De Mohaison, State of Play, Taranis, Thisthatandtother,
War Of Attrition and Yes Sir.
Celestial Gold has pulled out the race due to a leg problem. Impek will also miss the race as he will not be ready in time following some lameness. Kauto Star is the red hot favourite after winning the Tingle Creek over 2m at Sandown and earlier the Betfair Chase over 3m at Chepstow. He is the top rated chaser in the field and the race looks tailor made for him (an easy 3m on a flat track).

Kauto Star will face a maximum of 11 rivals in this.
Second favourite is the Nicky Richards-trained Monet's Garden, who represent thes table who won the King George twice in the 1990s with One Man.
Racing Demon is set to take his chance for Henrietta Knight, who has also won the race twice in recent years with Best Mate and Edredon Bleu.
Exotic Dancer will bid to bridge the gap between handicap and Grade One company after winning the boylesports.com and Paddy Power Gold Cups at Cheltenham for Jonjo O'Neill. Monkerhostin, second behind Kicking King 12 months ago, will be out to go one better for Philip Hobbs. Recent gamble Yes Sir stands his ground for Peter Bowen, who also has Ballycassidy engaged.
L'Ami, Ollie Magern, Commercial Flyer, Puntal and Mister McGoldrick complete the list of acceptors.
Sponsors bet: 8-13 Kauto Star, 4 Monet's Garden, 13-2 Racing Demon, 14 Exotic Dancer, Monkerhostin, 20 Yes Sir, 25 L'Ami, 40 Ollie Magern, Commercial Flyer, 100 Puntal, Mister McGoldrick, 200 Ballycassidy. To Follow

SUMMARY

Look no further than KAUTO STAR who looks a cert. The challenge look thin on the ground and based on his performances this season he only needs to have a clear round to collect here. I just cannot have Monets Garden which only leaves Racing Demon as the unexposed improver who should be placed. The current price of 4/6 is very short but as buying money goes there have been worse options. WON 4/7

Wednesday December 27 2006
Chepstow 2:05
Coral Welsh National
(Grade 3 Handicap Chase) 3m 5f

Simon is set to tackle his biggest test to date in the Coral Welsh National at Chepstow on December 27 provided he gets a run.
John Spearing's improving seven-year-old ran Tana River close in a competitive stamina-sapping contest at Sandown last time but currently sits a fair way down in the weights. And while Spearing has been pleased with the progress his chaser has made, the Worcestershire handler is under no illusion as to the scale of the task that lies ahead. Norma Macauley is to have a rare jumping representative in one of the season's biggest races with Heros Collonges set to line up in this. The Melton Mowbray trainer is better known for her runners on the Flat, particularly the all-weather, and prefers to stay away from the National Hunt action but has made an exception on this occasion. Originally from France, Heros Collonges performed with credit on several occasions for Paul Nicholls, winning the 2005 Country Gentlemen's Association Chase, but showed little on his seasonal reappearance back at Wincanton when pulling up in October's Desert Orchid Silver Cup. Omni Cosmo Touch and Truckers Tavern are set to represent Sue Smith in this. The former, a 16-1 shot with the sponsors, will be attempting to follow up on his fine run in last month's Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury, where he stayed on into fourth behind State Of Play. Truckers Tavern won the Roland Meyrick two years ago and has shown very little since, but last weekend he produced his best effort since leaving Ferdy Murphy for Smith when finishing second. Nicky Henderson has confirmed Juveigneur on target, a top-priced 14-1 with the bookmakers he worked at Seven Barrows on Tuesday morning, and
the session pleased the trainer.

SUMMARY

HALCON GENELARDIS is a nice young chaser who won over hurdles first-time-out at Haydock having taken well to fencing last season. He finished fifth on his final start in the Scottish National and it could just have been conditions were a little too quick for him that day. He is a horse who appreciates plenty of cut in the ground so conditions should be ideal for him today. Lou Du Moulin Mas is nicely weighted here and must go well. L'Aventure won the race last year by a very wide margin and Chepstow seems to bring out the best in her. She is only 5lbs higher and if performing at her best must go close. The race should suit All In The Stars who was disappointing in the Scottish National last year. He ran no race there but his earlier form was that of a progressive young stayer and he has won over three-and-a-half miles. His trainer Paul Keane said that the horse's last furlong is his strongest furlong and that is just the sort of horse you need for a Welsh National, place prospects. WON 7/1

Ascot Sat 16th December
BGC Long Walk Hurdle
3 Miles

Mighty Man heads a list of 13 horses engaged at the five-day stage.
Henry Daly's six-year-old reversed form with World Hurdle winner My Way De Solzen when gaining a deserved high-profile victory at the Grand National meeting in April.
He returned to the fray at Ascot last month when finding Hardy Eustace too hot to handle over an extended two miles, three furlongs. Neptune Collonges, second in this race when it was staged at Chepstow last year, also stands his ground despite making a bright start over fences this term. Alan King's Blazing Bailey found Black Jack Ketchum too strong at Cheltenham on Saturday and could clash with the former's stablemate, Fire Dragon, in Saturday's £100,000 Grade One affair.
Other interesting possibles include Irish Wolf, a narrow second to Inglis Drever last time, and the Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained Redemption. Dom D'Orgeval, Jazz D'Estruval, Lough Derg, Nathos, No Refuge, Royal Emperor and the promising Temoin complete the possible starting line-up.
Mighty Man has been installed the 11-10 favourite by Cashmans for this weekend's test, with Neptune Collonges next in the list at 11-4.
BGC Long Walk Hurdle, Cashmans bet: 11-10 Mighty Man, 11-4 Neptune Collonges, 9-1 Dom D'Orgeval, 10-1 Irish Wolf, Jazz D'Estruval, 12-1 Fire Dragon, 14-1 No Refuge, 20-1 Temoin, Lough Derg, 25-1 Redemption, 33-1 Royal Emperor, 50-1 Nathos.

SUMMARY

Mighty Man needs the rain to stay away, he is a better horse on good ground. On Tuesday the ground is now good to soft, soft in places on the round course, and good in places on the home straight. Main challenger Neptune Collonges will love any rain the more the better. He is not a definate starter though at this stage. Outsider Nathos will run but faces a stiff task here. The rain has kept away so this looks set up for MIGHTY MAN to justify favouritism. WON EVS

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY

To follow

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown 2nd December
Sandown
William Hill Tingle Creek Trophy
(Grade One) Two miles

14 declared at the 5 day stage.Armaturk, Ashley Brook, Central House, Cerium, Coat of Honour, Dempsey, Foreman, Fota Island, Full House. Hoo La Baloo, Kauto Star, Mister McGoldrick, Oneway and Voy Por Ustedes. Tingle Creek Trophy sponsors William Hill make Kauto Star the 4-7 favourite after the brilliant Betfair Chase winner was confirmed as a definite runner at the weekend. In a surprise move, Paul Nicholls' Cheltenham Gold Cup hope will drop back to two miles for the first time since falling in the Queen Mother Champion Chase as he bids to retain his crown at Sandown. Ashley Brook, a 16-1 chance with William Hill, needs to pass blood and wind tests before he can make his first appearance for a year. One of the most popular horses in training due to his extravagant front-running style and bright chestnut colour, Kevin Bishop's stable star has not been seen since last year's renewal of the Sandown feature.
Ashley Brook then suffered a knee problem, which flared up again just before the Queen Mother Champion Chase and left him needing a bone chip removed.

SUMMARY

Look no further than hot favourite KAUTO STAR. This is a tough ask but he can take this en route to the King George on Boxing Day.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday 18 Nov 2006
Ascot 1.35
Coral Ascot Hurdle Race
(Grade 2) 2m 3f

8 Go to post here. Hardy Eustace, Desert Quest, Mighty Man, Fire Dragon, No Refuge, Self Defense, Lough Derg and Yankeedoodledandy.

SUMMARY

Dual Champion Hurdler HARDY EUSTACE lines up in this Grade 2 event and the Irish star should be spot on after a recent pipe-opener on the Flat. This is a lot easier than the race he was entered for in Ireland against Brave Inca and the tip should be taken. Mighty Man may need this opening run of the season plus the trip will be a bit sharp. Desert Quest, who probably faced an impossible task trying to concede lumps of weight to Crow Wood last time will find this easier however the Irish challenge could spoil the party. WON 11/8

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday Cheltenham November 11th
Jim Brown Memorial Novices' Chase
(Class 2) 2m 4f

14 declared at the 5 day stage. Briscoe Place, Knowhere, Denman, Don't Push It, Duce, Natal, Clearly Oscar, Crossbarry Boy, Dream Alliance, Mr Pointment, Predicament, Royal Rosa, Snakebite and Wogan.

SUMMARY

Look no further than classy hurdler DENMAN to take another step nearer the top Novice Chases this season. The fences are the only danger. WON 4/5

Cheltenham 12th November
Greatwood Handicap Hurdle 2.45
(Grade 3) 2m

Triumph Hurdle winner Detroit City, who warmed up for a second jumping campaign with victory in the Cesarewitch, may reappear at Cheltenham on Sunday.
The four-year-old grey, owned by Terry Warner, is among 20 confirmations for this. Detroit City's trainer is also considering O'Toole, a course winner last month, for the £65,000 contest over an extended two miles.
Arcalis tops the handicap with the weights set to go up by 4lb following the five-day entry stage. His trainer Howard Johnson is currently double-handed having also left in with Mephisto.
Paul Nicholls is thinking of pitching Noland in his first handicap after the five-year-old was last seen winning the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Festival.
Nicky Henderson has three entries, Caracciola, All Star and Tarlac, while Gary Moore also has a trio to choose from in Verasi, Nawamees and Ameeq. John Quinn has left in Elite Hurdle winner Crow Wood and Caraman, with Acambo being David Pipe's sole representative. Noel Meade's Jazz Messenger, Paul Nolan's Cuan Na Grai, Noel Meade's Sweet Wake and The Last Hurrah from Jessica Harrington's stable, make up the four Irish acceptors.

SUMMARY

Triumph Hurdle and Cesarewitch winner DETROIT CITY can get off to a flyer over hurdles this season. He comes here fully fit from the flat and loves Cheltenham.WON 6/5

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday November 4 2006
Wincanton 2:10
Totepool Rising Stars Novices' Chase
(Grade 2) 2m 5f

14 runners declared at the 5 day stage.
Predator, Bowleaze, Boychuk, Natal, Penzance, Wiscalitus, Aztec Warrior, Denman,
High Chimes, Only Vintage, Royal Rosa, The Reverend, Which Way Now and Turko.

SUMMARY

5 go to post here. Turko, Boychuk, Predator, Bowleaze and Aztec Warrior. Boycuck is very classy and can have a successful season over fences however on this occassion he will struggle to give 11lb to the Paul Nicholls trained TURKO. A useful hurdler who won nicely on his debut and gets all the allowances here.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday September 23 2006
Ascot 4:20
Queen Elizabeth II Stakes
Group 1 1 Mile

George Washington is set to be the star attraction here as he tries to redeem his reputation.
So impressive when winning the Stan James 2000 Guineas, he has since been beaten twice, although the latter occasion was on his return from a lengthy injury lay-off.
Victory in the Group One contest would see him back at the top of the miling tree but with the likes of Librettist, Araafa and Court Masterpiece all likely to be in opposition, a thrilling battle is on the cards and the title of 'champion miler' awaits the victor. Court Masterpiece is reported to be in good form ahead of this. The six-year-old, trained by Ed Dunlop, did a satisfactory workout on the Newmarket gallops on Saturday as he looks to follow up his victory in the Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood. George Washington has been installed as the 6-4 favourite by Ladbrokes. 6-4 George Washington, 3-1 Librettist, 5-1 Court Masterpiece, 6-1 Araafa, 8-1 Peeress, Proclamation, 14-1 bar. George Washington and Librettist head a fascinating field of 13 possibles at the five-day stage for the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. Godolphin's Librettist goes in search of a third successive victory at the highest level. Ad Valorem has been withdrawn by O'Brien, but he could still call on Aussie Rules, Ivan Denisovich and River Tiber in addition to George Washington.
Ed Dunlop's Sussex Stakes winner Court Masterpiece and Jeremy Noseda's Araafa, conqueror of George Washington in the Irish 2000 Guineas, add further strength to a cracking line-up, with Killybegs, Nannina and Rajeem completing the confirmations.

SUMMARY

George Washington heads a final field of nine horses set to go to post for Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot. Aidan O'Brien's exciting 2000 Guineas winner will look to regain the winning thread in the £250,000 attraction, in which he will be joined by stablemates River Tiber and recent Listed-scorer Ivan Denisovich. Among his opposition in a mouth-watering renewal is his Irish 2000 Guineas conqueror Araafa - not seen since finishing fifth in the Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood - and John Gosden's Coronation Stakes heroine Nannina. An in-form Godolphin team rely on Proclamation and Librettist, the latter going in search of a third consecutive victory in Group One company, while Ed Dunlop's Court Masterpiece bids to confirm there was no fluke about his impressive Sussex Stakes victory. The field is completed by the Barry Hills-trained Killybegs, who finished one place in front of George Washington when the pair met at Goodwood late last month. GEORGE WASHINGTON is selected to redeem his reputation in this. He was so impressive when winning the Stan James 2000 Guineas and Aiden O Brien feels he has him back to that sort of form after an injury lay off. WON 13/8

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

York 4 September
Ladbrokes St Leger Stakes
(Group 1) 1m 5f

Sixties Icon is odds-on to claim glory in the Ladbrokes St Leger on Saturday following the defection of his main market rival, the Mick Channon-trained Youmzain.
The latter's owner Jaber Abdullah has opted to run his Great Voltigeur winner, who had been as short as 7-2 for the final Classic of the season, in the Prix Niel at Longchamp 24 hours later instead. Abdullah's racing manager Bruce Raymond said: "Mr Abdullah thinks Youmzain is unlikely to get the trip in the Leger and has decided to run the colt in the Prix Niel the following day. Mont Etoile could take her place in the line up for Saturday's Ladbrokes St Leger after pleasing connections in a gallop on Sunday morning. The Montjeu filly, winner of the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot earlier in the year, has not been seen since finishing fourth behind Alexandrova in the Irish Oaks in July. However, trainer William Haggas reports the filly to be in fine heart at present and the final Classic of the season is still under consideration. Mont Etoile has won two of her six career starts, taking a Yarmouth maiden in April, as well as also being placed in Listed company.

SUMMARY

12 declared: Latest betting Tuesday 05 September: Ladbrokes: 10-11 Sixties Icon, 5-1 Red Rocks, 8-1 Jadalee, Tusculum, 12-1 Mountain, 14-1 Fire And Rain, 16-1 Ask, Puerto Rico, 25-1 Galient, Mont Etoile, 33-1 Championship Point, 50-1 The Last Drop.

Coral: 4-5 Sixties Icon, 7-1 Red Rocks, Jadalee, Tusculum, 12-1 Ask, Mountain, Fire And Rain, 16-1 Puerto Rico, 20-1 Galient, Mont Etoile, 25-1 Championship Point, 40-1 The Last Drop. At this stage RED ROCKS looks massive at 7/1 with Corals. Friday 8th The ground is currently 7.3 on the going stick and drying slowly. This will be fine for RED ROCKS who's best run has been on easy ground.

Saturday August 19 2006
Newbury 3.10
Sportsman Newspaper Geoffrey Freer Stakes
Group 3 1m 5f

12 declared at the 5 day stage. Admiral's Cruise, Galient, Guadalajara, Hearthstead Wings, Jadalee, Luberon, Munsef, Salute Him, Self Defense, Sixties Icon, Tiger Tiger and Youmzain.

SUMMARY

7 go to post here.
Admiral's Cruise, Munsef, Self Defense, Tiger Tiger, Guadalajara, Galient and Jadalee.
This race has cut up badly. Marcus Tregoning’s superb recent record in this race points us to JADALEE. He has opted for this race rather than wait for the other main St
Leger trial, the Great Voltigeur at York next week.
At Glorious Goodwood, Jadalee was closing down winner Sixties Icon on the final stages of the Group 3 Gordon Stakes. He was also entered in the Ebor next week, but connections have opted for this easier task. Take the tip.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday August 12
Ascot
Carvill Shergar Cup Stayers Handicap
2m

18 runners at the 5 day stage. To follow

SUMMARY

12 runners go to post here. Dorothy'sFriend, McEldowney, Swordsman, Rehearsal, Tarandot, Quizzene, Ski Jump, Mudawin, Trance, Casual Glance, Wise Owl and Cavallino. DOROTHY'S FRIEND won this race in 2004 and has been plotted to win again off only 2lb higher. must hold claims off a mark only 2lb higher. McEldowney beat the selection at Goodwood but is now 5lb worse off. WON 5/2

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday August 5 2006
Goodwood
Vodafone Nassau Stakes
Group One 1m 2f

7 runners go to post. Ouija Board, Nannina, Alexander Goldrun, Echelon, Nasheej,
Chelsea Rose and Race For The Stars. Ouija Board will be racing against her own sex for the first time since she was runner-up to Intercontinental in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare last October which she had won 12 months earlier.
Lord Derby's multiple Group One winner will be hoping for better luck than on her latest start when she was trapped at a crucial stage of the race before finishing fifth to David Junior in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.
Before that she had put up one of the best performances of her career with victory over Electrocutionist in the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Her rivals include last year's Nassau winner Alexander Goldrun, with Jim Bolger's five-year-old being one of three Irish challengers. Con Collins runs Chelsea Rose, while Aidan O'Brien relies on Race For The Stars. The latter is one of a trio of three-year-olds taking on their elders, the others being the John Gosden-trained Nannina and Nasheej, trained by Richard Hannon.
Nannina's owners Cheveley Park Stud are also responsible for the other member of the field, the four-year-old Echelon, trained by Sir Michael Stoute.

SUMMARY

OUIJA BOARD was rather unlucky at Sandown when trapped at a crucial stage against David Junior. She races against her own sex here and should be too good. The John Gosden-trained Nannina can follow her home. WON 5/4

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown Saturday 8th
Coral-Eclipse Stakes
Group One 1m 2f

The 10-furlong contest is the first meeting of the middle distance three-year-olds with their elders at Group One level.
Some great horses have won this race over the years, and the recent roll of honour includes Hawk Wing, Giant's Causeway, Falbrav, Daylami, Halling, Pilsudski and Medicean. Ouija Board is set for a tilt at this providing she satisfies Ed Dunlop in a gallop on Wednesday. The stunning winner of the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot is reported to have taken those exertions in her stride and will be declared for the Sandown contest at the five-day stage. 13 declared at the five day stage.
Ace, Blue Monday, David Junior, Hattan, Notable Guest, Notnowcato, Ouija Board,
Royal Alchemist, Arabian Prince, Aussie Rules, Hurricane Cat, Snoqualmie Boy, Yasoodd.
The key to this race is the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes at Ascot last month.
Ouija Board was produced late off a slow pace to win a blanket finish with David Junior back in fourth, Notnowcato 5th and Ace 7th (last). If the race is run at a crawl then we should expect the same outcome however it will be harder to quicken up the Sandown hill.
David Junior, the ante-post favourite will be hoping the race will be run at a much better gallop than Ascot. The Ascot race was the slowest run mile and a quarter all week. If there is no pace on then expect David junior to be more positive and kick on, the course will suit him and conditions are ideal.
Aidan O'Brien looks to have a weak entry French 2000 Guineas winner Aussie Rules,
Ace, Arabian Prince and Hurricane Cat.
Notnowcato looks well held. Blue Monday, winner of the Group 3 La Coupe two starts back, was a running on fourth in the Wolferton Handicap under 9st 10lb while Snoqualmie Boy was a 33-1 winner of the Hampton Court Stakes both look outclassed. I am siding with DAVID JUNIOR who will relish this stiffer track and will kick on early if the pace is slack.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

York Thursday 18th
totesport Dante Stakes
Group Two

Palace Episode heads a field of 10 left in at the confirmation stage.
The three year old colt is set to have his first run for Godolphin, having been bought out of Kevin Ryan's stable following his victory in the Group One Racing Post Trophy.
Aidan O'Brien has three possibles in Hurricane Cat, Poseidon Adventure and Septimus.
Michael Bell, who sent out subsequent Derby hero Motivator to lift this Group Two contest 12 months ago, is represented by Leningrad, winner of his only start on the all-weather last month.
Hala Bek, also winner of his sole outing at Newbury and well-backed recently for the Vodafone Derby, stands his ground for Newmarket trainer Michael Jarvis.
The other acceptors are Sir Michael Stoute's Best Alibi, Brian Meehan's Red Rocks, David Elsworth's Snoqualmie Boy and The Last Drop from the Barry Hills stable.

SUMMARY

Leningrad could be anything after an impressive win in a maiden last month. That said this is a Group Two and a big hike in class. I like the Group Two winner SEPTIMUS the O'Brien Fallon combination and there chice from three entries. Now the stable is firing he should take all the beating. WON 13/8

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

York Friday 19th
Emirates Airline Yorkshire Cup
Group Two

Sergeant Cecil, who made history last year by being the first horse to win the Northumberland Plate,Ebor and Cesarewitch, is among 14 horses confirmed for this. The seven year old, trained by Rod Millman, made a pleasing seasonal reappearance when fourth to Mubtaker over a mile and a half at Newbury.
The Geezer, last year's Dante runner-up when trained by David Elsworth, could have his first start since joining Godolphin. The boys in blue have also left one-time Arc runner-up Cherry Mix in the Group Two contest over a mile and three quarters.
Collier Hill, winner of last year's Irish St Leger, could represent Alan Swinbank, while the sole Irish-trained entry is Kastoria from John Oxx's yard.
John Gosden has left in Day Flight, who made it four Group Three victories when taking the Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown last month.
The Sir Michael Stoute trained Distinction, runner-up in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot at York last summer, could have his first race since finishing unplaced in the Melbourne Cup. Percussionist, from Howard Johnson's stable, will be out to go one better after only being beaten a neck by Franklins Gardens in this race 12 months ago.
Orcadian has been left in by James Eustace after finishing second to The Whistling Teal in Friday's Ormonde Stakes at Chester.
Mark Johnston is currently three handed with Brahminy Kite, Winged d'Argent and Hearthstead Wings. Jamie Poulton's Land 'n Stars and Art Eyes, trained by David Elsworth, complete the acceptors.

SUMMARY

10 go to post here. The Godolphin horses may just need a run here and are best watched for now. John Gosden's DAY FLIGHT is a progressive type, will loves conditions and won well last month in a Group 3 at Sandown. NON RUNNER

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown Saturday 25th Feb
Racing Post Chase
3 miles

Francois Doumen's L'Ami heads the 23 confirmations for the Racing Post Chase at the five-day stage. The French handler also has the option of sending over his Grand National possible Innox for the £100,000 contest at Sandown Park on Saturday.
L'Ami is set to carry top weight of 11st 10lb and could use the race as a prep for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Philip Hobbs, who has won four of the last eight renewals, has Lacdoudal and Made In Japan entered, while Nicky Henderson has Irish Hussar and Calling Brave. Charlie Egerton has left in Graphic Approach, while Len Lungo may have a rare runner down south in the shape of Brooklyn Breeze.

SUMMARY

Ladalko off 10-05 looks very interesting here. However are Nicholls horses under a slight cloud at present. Philip Hobbs, who has won four of the last eight renewals, has Lacdoudal here. This classy type may struggle to give weight away to lighter rivals. The French raider INNOX will do for me. Off 11.00 and with McCoy on board he comes here in top form after his beating of a good field at Cheltenham in December. He should be ready to go after a short break and his Grand National odds will tumble if he wins this. WON 8/1

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gowran Park Saturday 18th
Red Mills Trial Hurdle
Grade Two 2 miles

Dual Smurfit Champion Hurdle winner Hardy Eustace could face eight rivals if he lines up in the Grade Two Red Mills Trial Hurdle at Gowran on Saturday.
Dessie Hughes' nine-year-old will be out to atone for his no-show in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown in January when he trailed home last behind Brave Inca. Macs Joy, who finished runner-up on that occasion, is another possible for the two-mile event at the weekend.
The Tom Mullins-trained Asian Maze is set to make her eagerly-awaited return after she was last seen winning the Grade One Menolly Homes Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival in April 2005.
Paul Nolan's useful handicapper Escrea, Charlie Swan's Ground Ball and Morgiana Hurdle second Essex could also feature.
McGruders Cross, Sky's The Limit and Tolpuddle complete the list at the five-day declaration stage.

SUMMARY

A very disappointing four go to post here. Macs Joy, Essex, Asian Maze and Ground Ball. Look no further than MACS JOY. He put himself firmly in the Champion Hurdle picture with an improved effort behind Brave Inca last time. A repeat of that run will see him win with his head in his chest.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday February 4 2006
Sandown 2:35
Totesport.com Scilly Isles Novices Steeple Chase
2m 4f

15 declared at the 5 day stage. Albuhera, Billyvoddan, Bold Bishop, Cerium, Gallant Approach, Iron Man, Monte Vista, Napolitain, Racing Demon, Rebel Rhythm, Stance, Tamarinbleu, The Listener, Thistlecraft and Turpin Green.
Henrietta Knight will not make a decision on Racing Demon's participation until later in the week. The six-year-old Arkle favourite has recovered from a burst abscess on a tooth and is now being considered for a tilt at this. However, the Wantage-based trainer acknowledged conditions at the Esher venue could work against Racing Demon if the ground is too quick at the weekend. He is unbeaten in his chasing career and is a general 5-1 to lift the two-mile novice championship at the Cheltenham Festival.

SUMMARY

Just the 5 go to post. Albuhera, Billyvoddan, Napolitain, Turpin Green and Stance. This looks a match between the Nicholls pair Albuhera and Napolitain. On official rating the latter is rated 5lb less than Albuhera however with a 8lb pull in this race NAPOLITAIN should just come out on top. He ran a cracker to finish just 3/4l behind Royal & SunAlliance Chase fancy The Listener (Billyvoddan 4th) at Cheltenham last time out and can continue to improve here.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown January 7th
Tolworth Hurdle
Two Miles Grade One

The extended two mile event has had some good winners in the past and last year
was no exception when Marcel stepped up successfully to the highest
level for the first time. Flat performer Compton Bolter could be thrown in at the deep end for his delayed hurdling debut at Sandown on Saturday. Having been denied the chance of a more low-key start to his new career when racing was abandoned at Newbury last week, the Group 3 winner may kick off in this event. The only previous Grade 1 winner among the entries is Iktitaf, who took the Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse for Noel Meade last month and is 10-1 favourite with William Hill for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
Martin Pipe has entered dual winners Acambo and Nous Voila in a race that he won last year with Marcel, while Paul Nicholls has Noland and Spidam engaged.

SUMMARY

5 go to post. Noland, Lennon, Whispered Promises, Compton Bolter and Albarino. Whispered Promises beat L'Antartique in an E novice hurdle and although this is a big step up in class he should ge close. Lennon was a good bumper horse but this is very tough for this horse. Group 3 winner Compton Bolter has to be considered but this is a big ask for his hurdling bow, and he is best watched until proven. NOLAND looked a class act in the making when disposing of a smart field at Cheltenham last time out. Nicholls had Spidam (runs in 1.00) entered as well but leaves it to the improving 5 year old.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cheltenham 1st Jan
Unicoin Homes Handicap Chase
2m 5f

25 declared at the 5 day stage. Fondmort an unlucky brought down last time out heads the weights.

SUMMARY

16 go to post
Fondmort, Too Forward, Le Passing, Made In Japan, Kandjar d'Allier,Redemption, See You Sometime, Iris Royal, Scots Grey, Europa, Our Armageddon, Noisetine, Limerick Boy, Whereareyounow, Alexanderthegreat and Quazar. Limerick Boy can go well fresh and comes from an in-form yard, so he's one for the shortlist. 2004 Triumph Hurdle winner Made In Japan is without a win since his chasing debut in November last year but he has run quite well of late and could grab a place. Le Passing looked all over the winner here last time out however the hill found him out and he was collared. He must go close again. FONDMORT was travelling like a winner and closing well when brought down three out and is preferred. He had previously had a good reappearance fourth in the Paddy Power Gold Cup and can gain compensation here.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cheltenham 1st Jan
Unicoin Homes 'Dipper' Novices' Chase
2m 5f

17 declared at the 5 day stage.

SUMMARY

7 go to post.
The Listener. Knowhere, King Killone, Star De Mohaison, Billyvoddan, Leading Man and Napolitain. Nicholls holds a strong hand here with Napolitain and Star De Mohaison. Ruby Walsh rides the latter however he was well held by THE LISTENER at Exeter and may not be up to reversing the form despite a 9lb pull. Leading Man wouldn't have won last time out if not for being left clear four from home at Wetherby.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown 26th December
Stan James Christmas Hurdle
2 miles

Harchibald, winner of the Stan James Christmas Hurdle 12 months ago, heads 12 entries in this year's renewal at Sandown on Boxing day.
The race was reopened after only nine entries were received with Charlton Kings, Mawkit and Al Eile added to the field.
In addition to the latter and Harchibald, Colm Murphy's Feathard Lady completes a three strong Irish raiding party although Harchibald is expected to run at Leopardstown on Wednesday. Emma Lavelle is responsible for two of the entries in Self Defense and William Hill Handicap Hurdle fourth Cloudy Grey, while Howard Johnson has the option of running Triumph Hurdle third Akilak.
Intersky Falcon represents Jonjo O'Neill, improving novice Natal is the sole entry for Paul Nicholls, while Gary Moore's Dusky Warbler and the Steve Gollings-trained Royal Shakespeare complete the field.

SUMMARY

The unexposed irish raider FEATHARD LADY gets a very handy 7lbs from these and that could make all the difference. This is her stiffest test to date, she has won her only 6 starts and continues to improve with every outing. Akilak was travelling smoothly on his debut when inseating. He rates a big danger here.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chepstow 27th December
Coral Welsh National Handicap Chase
3m 5f

SUMMARY: This test of stamina is likely to severely examine the credentials of the likes of Cornish Rebel, One Knight and World Wide Web but L'AVENTURE stays for ever. His fourth to Spot The Difference at Cheltenham in November brings him here spot on. He was forth to Silver Birch in this race last season finishing strongly on that occasion.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cheltenham Saturday
Totesport Bula Hurdle Race
2m 1f

11 declared at the 5 day stage. Akilak, Crossbow Creek, Faasel, Harchibald,
Intersky Falcon, Penzance, Phar Bleu, Royal Paradise, Royal Shakespeare, Sporazene and Westender.

SUMMARY

9 go to post.Harchibald, Faasel, Intersky Falcon, Penzance, Royal Shakespeare, Sporazene, Akilak, Phar Bleu and Westender. Royal Shakespeare, a Grade 2 winner at Wincanton, is open to further improvement and can be given a chance here.
Faasel, beaten just a head by Penzance in the Triumph Hurdle and a Grade 1 Aintree winner is still open to plenty of improvement. That said he still has it too prove against the best. HARCHIBALD is the class act here but has flattered to decieve on more than several occasions. He travels supremly well through his races but finds nothing once in front. He ran his best ever race in defeat at Cheltenham in the Champion Hurdle and against this opposition should have enough guns up the hill if produced very late by Carberry.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sandown Saturday
William Hill Tingle Creek Trophy
2 Miles Grade One

All eyes will be on Moscow Flyer as he tries to regain the winning thread after a defeat last time out. He has won on two of the three occasions he has tackled this Grade One event. Last season he beat Azertyuiop and Well Chief in a thrilling battle to the line. MOSCOW FLYER MISSES THE RACE: 12 entered for this on Monday. Moscow Flyer has been put on a course of antibiotics and so is unable to bid for a hat-trick of
victories in the Grade One two-mile chase.The problem was discovered after the dual Queen Mother Champion Chase winner had worked on the Curragh on Monday morning.
Kauto Star, second-favourite behind Moscow Flyer for the Champion Chase next March, made his seasonal reappearance when runner-up to Monkerhostin in the William Hill Haldon Gold Cup. The same trio also filled the placings in last term's Queen Mother when Mark Rimell's improving Oneway came home in fourth, seven lengths behind Azertyuiop. The eight-year-old had previously won five chases on the bounce and beat Impek over this weekend's course and distance. Rathgar Beau and Central House successful over Moscow Flyer on his last two outings are also possibles for the Tingle Creek. Haldon Gold Cup first and third Monkerhostin and Ashley Brook, along with Locksmith, Hand Inn Hand and Dangerousdanmagru complete the entries. To follow.

SUMMARY

7 go to post here.
Ashley Brook, Hand Inn Hand, Kauto Star, Locksmith, Monkerhostin, Oneway, and Sporazene.
Ashley Brook will try to lead these a merry dance however the railway fences can
expose his jumping and lead to his downfall. He blundered badly on his debut last time out and blundered badly the last time he ran at Sandown. He also struggles with the hill at Sandown and may get run out of it.
Oneway must go well and if fully tuned up can win this. However reports are that he will come on for the run and may need this so a place at best is expected.
KAUTO STAR needed his run last time out and was done for fitness by the busy and improving Monkerhostin.
Paul Nicholls top unexposed Novice will strip fitter here and must step up to the plate if he is to take on the best two milers this season.
I fully expect him to win this and join Moscow Flyer at the head of the Queen Mother betting for Cheltenham in March.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday Newbury
Ballymore Properties Long Distance Hurdle
(Class A) Grade 2 3 Mile

Top stayer Baracouda heads a list of nine entries for this. The 10-year-old, who is trained in France by Francois Doumen, will be bidding for a third successive win in the extended three-mile contest. He could face some tough opposition though including the reigning staying champion Inglis Drever who beat him by three lengths at Cheltenham in March. The race was reopened after an initial entry of just eight runners. However, only the Jonjo O'Neill-trained Hasty Prince was added to the field.
Other possibles for the race include last year's runner-up Crystal D'Ainay, the Martin Pipe-trained trio of Westender, Korelo and Mr Cool, as well as Carlys Quest and Dancing Bay.

SUMMARY

This looks a match between Inglis Drever and Baracouda. Because match fitness is on his side INGLIS DREVER gets the nod. He won well on his debut looking better than ever and and that form should beat the French horse. Crystal D'ainay is held here on last months running but can grab a place..

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Saturday Newmarket
Darley Dewhurst Stakes
Group One 7 furlongs

17 declared : Amigoni, Arabian Prince, Aussie Rules, Close To You, Dylan Thomas, George Washington, Horatio Nelson, Humungous, Ivan Denisovich, Killybegs, Marcus Andronicus, Opera Cape, Palace Episode, Primary, Prince of Light, Red Clubs, Sir Percy The unbeaten Sir Percy is bang in contention after delighting trainer Marcus Tregoning
on the gallops on Saturday morning. The winner of Goodwood's Group 2 Vintage Stakes is bang on course. Last year's Dewhurst Stakes winner Shamardal, who is now retired, landed the same Goodwood race en route to victory at Newmarket, and Tregoning believes his charge is a future Classic contender, like the former Godolphin star proved to be. Sir Percy, 40-1 for both the 2,000 Guineas and Derby with Ladbrokes, beat subsequent Mill Reef Stakes winner Cool Creek by a neck at Goodwood and at Newmarket, form which bolsters the chances of the Terry Mills-trained Close To You, who is also on target for the Dewhurst after having Cool Creek back in fourth when dead-heating for Doncaster's Champagne Stakes. Aidan O'Brien is responsible for eight of the 17 horses confirmed for this. The Ballydoyle trainer's team is headed by National Stakes winner George Washington and Horatio Nelson, who lifted the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp. Amigoni, Arabian Prince, Aussie Rules, Dylan Thomas, Ivan Denisovich and Marcus Andronicus complete the O'Brien party in the Group One race for two-year-olds over seven furlongs.
Opera Cape, runner-up to Horatio Nelson in France, has been left in by Sylvester Kirk.
Barry Hills is double-handed with Killybegs and Red Clubs, and David Loder could bid for a final big-race success before he retires at the end of the season with the unbeaten Primary, owned by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing.
Mark Johnston, who sent out Shamardal to lift this prize 12 months ago, could run Prince of Light, with the possibles completed by Kevin Ryan's Palace Episode, Close To You from the Terry Mills yard and Humungous, trained by Charlie Egerton.

SUMMARY

Aidan O'Brien has yet to decide on whether George Washington or Horatio Nelson will represent him in Saturday's Group One Darley Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket.
He has declared both colts, favourites for next year's 2000 Guineas and Derby respectively, for the seven-furlong contest but newspaper reports suggest only one will run. If the ground is fast, that is said to be George Washington or if there is some ease, and it was soft on Thursday, Horatio Nelson. George Washington comes into the race on the back of two impressive Group One wins on his last two starts while Horatio Nelson impressed many when putting in a gutsy performance to win the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp recently.
Opera Cape, who finished a one-and-a-half length second to Horatio Nelson, reopposes here while Terry Mills' Close To You will try to step up on his Champagne Stakes dead heat last time. David Loder, who retires at the end of the season, will be looking for a perfect swansong with Primary while Kevin Ryan runs Palace Episode. Marcus Tregoning's unbeaten Vintage Stakes winner Sir Percy, Humungous and Red Clubs complete the line-up. HORATION NELSON can take this for Aidan O'Brien. The ground has come perfect for him and the no 1 choice from 17 stablemates speaks volumes. RESULT: 2ND 8/11

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Salisbury Saturday Cornwallis Stakes Salisbury Saturday
Cornwallis Stakes
Group Three 5 Furlongs

20 declared at the 5 day stage. Tabaret is hoping for fast ground for the son of Bertolini, who already has a Listed race success to his credit at York in the Roses Stakes at the Ebor meeting. Tabaret was taken to Ayr for the Listed Harry Rosebery Stakes, but found the combination of a 5lb penalty and ground on the dead side too much when finishing third to Curtail. Classic Encounter is on course for the this in what will be his first race since suffering a leg injury at Royal Ascot at York just over four months ago. Classic Encounter has only raced three times, beating subsequent Middle Park third Always Hopeful by five lengths at Newmarket on his second start.
He then finished third to Masta Plasta in the Norfolk Stakes at the Royal meeting after which he was found to have sustained a stress fracture of the right-hind tibia. Flying Childers runner-up Hunter Street is set to contest this where he could face a rematch with Godfrey Street.
The Peter Chapple-Hyam-trained Hunter Street finished with a wet sail to get within three-quarters of a length of Richard Hannon's Godfrey Street at Doncaster, and both are among the entries for the five-furlong Group Three.The Compton Place colt had earlier finished fourth in the Molecomb Stakes and Chapple-Hyam would just like to see some rain at the Wiltshire track.

SUMMARY

Godfrey Street beat HUNTER STREET in the Flying Childers but the result should be different on this occasion. He finished with a wet sail to get within three-quarters of a length of Richard Hannon's charge but the post came in time. Chapple-Hyam would just like to see some rain at the Wiltshire track to help his cause. WON 4/1

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newbury Saturday 17
Dubai Duty Free Mill Reef Stakes
(Group 2) 1m 2f

16 declared at the 5 day stage. Ajigolo, Art Market, Ba Foxtrot, Balthazaar´s Gift,
Bonnie Prince Blue, Calypso King, Cool Creek, Escape Plan, Giganticus, Hot
Just Intersky, Misu Bond, Racer Forever, River Thames, Sir Xaar, Nantyglo.

SUMMARY

13 go to post here. Sir Xaar may be outclassed here. He won a Listed race last time out but needs a lot of improvement. Ajigolo won a Group 2 race last time however now has a penalty to overcome. COOL CREEK looks the answer here. He was unlucky in a Doncaster Group 2 race last time out and is a consistent performer at this level. He could be a great E.W. bet at rewarding odds.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

York Thursday 18th
VC Bet Nunthorpe Stakes
(Group 1) 6 Furlongs

16 go to post here.

SUMMARY

Avonbridge was runner up in the Group 1 July Cup last month and is effective over this trip. The Tatling runner-up in this event for the last two years appears to be back in form after pushing Fire Up The Band all the way last time out. Consistent Benbaun comes here on the back of a good win.
Chineur is progressing into a top class sprinter, he made it four in a row when landing
the King's Stand Stakes over course and distance.
But I like the chances of LA CUCARACHA.
She was an impressive winner in the £50,000 Skybet Dash at Newbury. She was making her first appearance in a handicap, the daughter of Piccolo underlined her star
quality by giving weight and a beating to all of her 14 rivals. Cruising through the race, she went to the front entering the final furlong and, despite not doing a lot in
front, prevailed by three-parts of a length from Connect. She is still lightly raced
and unexposed. I feel she is capable of winning a Group One as it's on fast ground
and over her favoured six furlongs. WON 7/1

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Iveco Daily Solario Stakes Sandown Sandown Saturday
Iveco Daily Solario Stakes
Group Three 7 furlongs

12 declared. Asset, Close To You, Heatseeker, Humungous, Kilworth, Leo, Opera Cape, Private Business, Yasoodd, Asaawir, Rising Cross and Saabiq. Leo, runner up to the highly regarded Hortaio Nelson last time out, could return to action in this Group 3. He could provide trainer John Gosden with victory to follow the success of Windsor Knot 12 months ago. He had another of Saturday’s possible rivals, Yasoodd, a neck behind when runner up to the Horatio Nelson in the SuperlativeStakes at Newmarket’s July meeting and is also likely to face stern opposition from the progressive Close To You.
The Terry Mills-trained colt completed a hat trick when slamming Silent Times five lengths in soft ground at Newbury last month and has been laid out for the race since.

SUMMARY

7 go to post here. Asset, Close To You, Opera Cape, Kilworth, Yasoodd, Rising Cross and Saabiq. Yarmouth winner Asset and Close To You who is on a four timer, have done enough to suggest they have futures in Group company and must both go well. OPERA CAPE still looks a little green but he was impressive when winning a Goodwood maiden last month and can continue to improve. The Barathea colt has come along nicely this season and can show his real potential here. WON 15/2

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chester Saturday
Blue Square Chester Handicap
(Listed Race) 1m5½f

18 declared at the 5 day stage.
Without A Trace could bid to get her winning sequence back on line in the Listed Blue
Square Chester Handicap at Chester on Saturday. The progressive Darshaan filly stepped up in class for a Group 3 event over a mile and six furlongs at Goodwood last month and stayed on well when beaten only a length by Tartouche and, if given the go ahead, would be bidding to add to the victory of the Ed Dunlop-trained Swift Tango in the £30,000 added event 12 months ago.

SUMMARY

8 go to post here. Jagger, Masafi, Red Lancer, Most Definitely, High Action, Pukka, Garden Society and Light of Morn. Jagger makes a quick reappearance after finishing sixth in the Ebor at York on Wednesday. He made most of the running and was only run out of it towards the finish. He will have his supporters however that tough race may have left its mark and he could be found wanting. Garden Society is a bit fragile these days, although he is a more than capable performer on his day. Sir Mark Prescotts MASAFI could not concede weight to the improving Ouninpohja at Pontefract last week, but ran well in defeat. He receives weight from most here and on only his third start this season the lightly raced four year old can improve past these for handicap king Prescott. WON 7/2

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fillies Group Three Swynford Paddocks Sweet Solera Stakes Newmarket Saturday
Swynford Paddocks Sweet Solera Stakes
Fillies Group Three
7 furlongs

7 go to post here. Confidential Lady, Ice Princess, Nasheej, Rising Cross, Deveron, Hill of Grace, and Skyelady

SUMMARY

DEVERON is selected to provide Clive Brittain with another big race winner when she bids to make it two wins from three starts in this seven furlong contest. She split Star Cluster and Cross Channel at this track on her debut last month, an effort which has been boosted by victory for both herself and the latter since, not to mention fifth home Galileo's Star, who has also won. Deveron's success came at Glorious Goodwood, where she won in spite of being all at sea on the undulating track, something which suggests she is definitely a proper filly in the making. It was fast on her debut and officially soft at Goodwood so underfoot conditions are unlikely to pose a problem and it is going to take a good one to beat her at the weekend. DEVERON should be good value.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday Goodwood
Lady O Goodwood Cup
2 Miles (class 1)

15 declared at the 5 day stage.
Millenary, Distinction, Lost Soldier Three, Barolo, Shabernak, Winged d'Argent,
Dancing Bay, Midas Way, Golden Quest, Lochbuie, Astrocharm, Tungsten Strike,
Hearthstead Wings, Jagger and Darasim.

SUMMARY

In a wide open contest it may be worth siding with hendersons DANCING BAY. On first glance of the form book he looks held by Millenary whom he has finished behind twice last season (4th and 3rd). However he looks like getting his favoured ground here (give) and having been laid out for this race he has a lot going for him. His close debut 4th to Cruzpiel would have put him spot on for this and improvement can be expected. Millenary has won on his second start the last couple of seasons however this season he has been disappointing on both starts and it may be that he is getting harder to prepare. Distinction comes here with every chance. His second to Westerner in the Gold Cup was a cracking run as he was stepping up massively in trip. He has only run over 2m once when weakening inside the final furlong. He is a lot stronger now and this trip looks ideal after being campaigned at much shorter recently. Winged d'argent and Midas Way would come into this at their best but cannot be relied on. The improving Lost Soldier Three needs to find a lot of improvement to win this as he is rated in the low 100's.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goodwood Saturday
Vodafone Nassau Stakes
Group One 1m 2f

18 declared.
Alexander Goldrun, Cassydora, Gyreka, Hazarista, Joint Aspiration, Karen´s Caper, La Persiana Magical Romance, Mona Lisa, New Morning, Penkenna Princess, Red Bloom,
Secret History, Something Exciting, Songerie, Summitville, Tarfah and Virginia Waters
Jim Bolger's international star Alexander Goldrun heads 18 fillies and mares standing
their ground in Saturday's Vodafone Nassau Stakes at Goodwood. Winner of the Hong Kong Cup last winter and the Pretty Polly Stakes last month, the four-year-old could be joined in the race by fellow Irish raider Hazarista from John Oxx's yard.
Sir Michael Stoute, successful 12 months ago with Favourable Terms, could bid for a
repeat having left in Red Bloom at the five-day stage for this Group One contest over
a mile and a quarter.
New Morning and Tarfah are other notable names from the older division while Lingfield
Oaks Trial winner Cassydora, along with Joint Aspiration, Karen's Caper and Penkenna
Princess are some of those representing the Classic generation.
Aidan O'Brien has Virginia Waters engaged along with Mona Lisa while Gyreka is the only Germany entry.

SUMMARY

ALEXANDER GOLDRUN beat Red Bloom at the Curragh in June and has since finished runner up to the classy Soviet Song. The 4 year old was slowly into stride at the Curragh but when switched to outer 2f out comfortably brushed Red Bloom aside.
She is in top form and will take some stopping. New Morning and Hazarista are both well held on that Curragh running.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newmarket Tuesday Uae Equestrian & Racing Federation Falmouth Stks
Group 1 (Class 1 )
1 Mile

7 declared.
Alexander Goldrun, Peeress, Soviet Song, Sundrop, Cape Columbine, Karen's Caper and
Penkenna Princess. Cape Columbine has been given the go-ahead to tackle Soviet Song in this. The David Elsworth-trained daughter of Diktat was beaten less than four lengths when fourth to Maids Causeway in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot at York on her latest start. Prior to that she had been a close-up fifth to Virginia Waters in the 1,000 Guineas. Soviet Song was cut to 7/4 favourite (from 5/2) by Coral today to land back-to-back runnings of this. Ladbrokes make the James Fanshawe-trained mare a 15/8 chance after the name of Attraction failed to appear among the final declarations for the Group One contest.
Jim Bolger's triple Group One winner Alexander Goldrun will ensure the Elite Racing Club-owned Soviet Song does not have things all her own way. The four-year-old was shortened to 11/4 from 3s by Ladbrokes. Sir Michael Stoute relies on Peeress after his Chic was the only other withdrawal at the 48-hour stage.
Sundrop will represent the Godolphin operation, with Kerrin McEvoy replacing the injured Frankie Dettori. Peeress and Sundrop have met each other twice already this season, with the score standing at one apiece.
Stoute's filly defeated Sundrop in the Windsor Forest Stakes at Royal Ascot at York last time after they finished the other way round in the Princess Elizabeth Stakes at Epsom on Derby day. The three runners from this year's Classic generation all have high-class form. Karen's Caper was fourth in the 1000 Guineas and was then beaten a short head in the Coronation Stakes at York, while Cape Columbine was fifth and fourth respectively in those two races. Penkenna Princess found the fast ground against her in the 1000 Guineas, but appreciated the cut at the Curragh three weeks later to finish a short-head second in the Irish equivalent.
The going is good on the July course.

SUMMARY

Look no further than SOVIET SONG to complete the double in this race. He badly needed the run on his debut and will improve a lot as he always does after his initial outing. He was bang there on his debut third behind Peeress and Sundrop and with a 5lb pull in the weights should reverse that form.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Epsom Vodafone Derby Saturday 4th July
Class 1 (Group 1) 1m 4f

42 Almighty    A P O´Brien
1-3 Belenus     Saeed Bin Suroor
1-51 Dubawi     Saeed Bin Suroor
15 Ehsan       John M Oxx
-14d3 Falstaff A P O´Brien
-213 First Row B J Meehan
111 Fracas      David Wachman
1-23 Grand Central A P O´Brien
1-1 Gypsy King   A P O´Brien
6831 Hattan     C E Brittain
1-11 Hurricane Run A Fabre
12 Indigo Cat   A P O´Brien
54 Kalamkar     Sir Michael Stoute
5266 Kings Quay R Hannon
3-21 Kong       J L Dunlop
11-1 Motivator M L W Bell
31 Mountain High Sir Michael Stoute
7 Oakbridge     A P Jarvis
2-42 Oratorio   A P O´Brien
1-12 Plea Bargain J H M Gosden
2 Qassas        Kevin Prendergast
12 Scorpion      A P O´Brien
1-91 Shamardal   Saeed Bin Suroor
-112 The Geezer D R C Elsworth
800 Thebestisyettocome T G Mills
2-11 Unfurled   J L Dunlop
13-2 Walk In The Park J E Hammond
Dubawi was always travelling well and hacked up when winning the Irish 2,000 Guineas.
His Newmarket disappointment was due to the exceptionally fast ground and the ground will be vital to his performance on Derby day.
Motivator's win in the Dante Stakes was equally impressive. He won one of the best derby trials this season and has more improvement to come. Again this colt will not want lightning fast ground.
Oratorio is the highest rated of the Ballydoyle Derby possibles although Gypsy King
is probably the best of them.
He lost a lot of ground at Chester leaving the gate and jumping an imaginary road still got up to win. He needs rain this week as fast ground will be against him.
Most of the principals need a drop of rain, the course is being watered and the official current going is good.

SUMMARY

The ground hold the key here and we need to see what the weather does this week before stepping in. 02/05/05 Ante-post favourite Motivator heads a field of 14 set to go to post for Saturday's Vodafone Derby at Epsom. The ground should just have enough juice in it for MOTIVATOR to take the spoils. Generally a 5/2 shot I expect 3/1 to be on offer on the day.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goodwood Saturday 28th
Empire Property Group Stakes (Achilles Stakes)
5 Furlongs Listed

11 declared at the 5 day stage. Boogie Street, Corridor Creeper, Forever Phoenix, If Paradise, Indian Maiden, Jimmy Ryan, Jonny Ebeneezer, Majestic Missile, One Putra, Talbot Avenue and The Lord.

SUMMARY

8 go to post. This looks a match between Corridor Creeper and Boogie Street. The latter has the class and age on his side. He should be fit enough on his debut to run the old boy out of it. BOOGIE STREET WON 5/2

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Empire Property Group Cup Stakes (Registered As The Heron Stakes) Saturday 28th
(Listed Race)
1 Mile

18 declared at the 5 day stage. Coeur Courageux, Crosspeace, Excusez Moi, Foxhaven, Gold Queen, Hawkes Bay, Industrial Spirit,Jalamid, Kamakiri, Liakoura, Love Thirty, Mogaamer, Proclamation, Rebuttal, Solent, Stetchworth Prince, Thunderwing, Tucker. To follow

SUMMARY

REBUTTAL was 2nd of 9, 3/4l behind Ad Valorem at Newmarket in a Group One over 6f.
That looks the most solid group form in this race and his class should win the day.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goodwood Wednesday Letheby & Christopher Predominate Stakes Goodwood Wednesday
Letheby & Christopher Predominate Stakes
(Class 1) (Listed Race) 1m 3f

15 declared at the 5 day stage.
Hattan, Belenus, Clueless, Double Kudos, Glen Ida, Hallhoo, Indigo Cat
Melrose Avenue, Plea Bargain, Public Forum, Scorpion, Shannon Springs, Tragedian, Unfurled, and Wingman.

SUMMARY

Just the 4 go to post here. Belenus, Indigo Cat, Tragedian and Unfurled. A small but quality looking field here. Belenus puts his Vodafone Derby credentials on the line when he makes his eagerly-awaited reappearance in this. He has not been seen in public since making a winning debut in a 15-runner maiden over seven furlongs at Newmarket last July when he defeated Frith by a length and a half. He may just need this on his debut and over an untried trip. Ingigo Cat only made his racecourse bow earlier this month at Lingfield where he landed a 10-furlong maiden by three-quarters of a length from Gems Of Araby. He is currently a best-priced 40-1 for the Derby and needs to improve. The John Gosden-trained Tragedian. A 50-1 shot for the Derby opened his account at Lingfield last month before finishing seventh of eight to Fracas in the betfred.com Classic Trial at Sandown. He looks like he is only running because the field has cut up and he can grab some place money. My idea of the winner is UNFURLED. He is proven over the course and distance having taken a maiden in spectacular style by 10 lengths from Glistening three weeks ago. He will improve and with conditions ideal should have the edge over his rvals.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Curragh Saturday Boylesports Irish 2000 Guineas The Curragh Saturday
Boylesports Irish 2000 Guineas
1 Mile Group One

Footstepsinthesand has been installed as the 7-4 favourite by the sponsors to
complete a Classic double. Aidan O'Brien, was the last trainer to achieve the feat when he saddled Rock Of Gibraltar to win both races three years ago. The Ballydoyle maestro is also responsible for Newmarket fourth Oratorio, Ad Valorem, Albert Hall, Dark Cheetah, Grand Central, Hills Of Arran and Showdance and his stable is 11-10 with Cashmans to lift the coveted prize.Footstepsinthesand took the UltimatePoker.com 2000 Guineas at Newmarket in good style by one and a quarter lengths from 100-1 shot Rebel Rebel, who is on course for a rematch at the weekend.
Dubawi, who lost his unbeaten record when finishing fifth behind Footstepsinthesand,
is the sole representative of Godolphin.
David Loder's Aragorn, the Mick Channon-trained Capable Guest and Rebuttal from Brian Meehan's yard are the other British horses left in the 17-runner feature.
The Carlos Laffon-Parias-trained Istan is the only French entry left in following the final forfeit. Local trainers Dermot Weld and John Oxx could run Bobs Pride and Raydan respectively, while County Carlow handler Jim Bolger still has Craven Stakes winner and 2000 Guineas sixth Democratic Deficit in the race.
The going at the Curragh is currently described as good, good to firm on the round course with rain forecast for Wednesday.

SUMMARY

Boylesports bet Weds: 9-4 Dubawi, 5-2 Footstepsinthesand, Oratorio, 9-2 Rebel Rebel, 8-1 Democratic Deficit, 14-1 Raydan, 16-1 Ad Valorem, Bobs Pride, Rebuttal (others on request). Aiden O' Brien confirmed on Wednesday evening that UltimatePoker.com 2,000 Guineas winner Footstepsinthesand will not take his chance in the Boylesports-sponsored equivalent at The Curragh on Saturday.
The unbeaten son of Giant's Causeway had been uneasy in the market since betting
opened on Monday. Newmarket fourth Oratorio will now be the mount of Kieren Fallon, and the Ballydoyle maestro will also run Albert Hall, Showdance and Hills Of Aran. By default this is a match between Dubawi and Oratorio. Connections of Dubawi believe the ground at the Curragh will be more suitable than it was at Newmarket as it was too fast there. Oratorio finished fourth in the English 2000 Guineas, just ahead of Dubawi who was fifth. On this occasion with conditions to suit DUBAWI gets the nod for Dettori.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

York Thursday totesport Dante Stakes York Thursday
totesport Dante Stakes
1m 2f Group One

This 10-furlong affair has long been regarded as a stepping stone to the premier Classic and was won 12 months ago by the Sir Michael Stoute-trained North Light, who went on to glory in the blue riband at Epsom. This year's renewal is likely to centre around Michael Bell's Motivator, unbeaten as a two-year-old and vying for Derby favouritism with Footstepsinthesand. 11 declared at the 5 day stage which includes Motivator. The son of Montjeu is a general 5-1 chance for Epsom after his impressive victory over Albert Hall in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last autumn. Albert Hall, who is trained by Aidan O'Brien, has also been confirmed for the race, along with stablemates Falstaff, Indigo Cat and Grand Central. Kandidate, third in the 2000 Guineas, is Clive Brittain's entry, while Jeremy Noseda is set to step Newmarket maiden winner Proclamation up in class. Godolphin have Belenus, winner of his only start to date, while Sir Michael Stoute has an interesting possible in Blue Train. John Gosden's Plea Bargain and the David Elsworth-trained The Geezer complete the confirmations.

SUMMARY

6 go to post here.
Albert Hall Falstaff Kandidate Motivator Proclamation The Geezer.
This is a virtual match between Albert Hall and Motivator. The latter beat Albert Hall in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last autumn. MOTIVATOR will be clear Derby favourite after winning this.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newbury Saturday
Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes
1 Mile Group One

15 declared at the 5 day stage. Antonius Pius, Arakan, Autumn Glory, Babodana, Brunel, Byron, Chic, Elvstroem, Grand Emporium, Hurricane Alan, Le Vie Dei Colori, Mac Love, Pastoral Pursuits, Rakti and Tarfah. Elvstroem winner of the Dubai Duty Free at Nad Al Sheba in March, has been supplemented at a cost of £16,000 for this.
The Australian star was added to the field for the Group 1 contest over a mile along
with Gerard Butler's Tarfah. Aidan O'Brien has left in Breeders' Cup Mile runner-up Antonius Pius, while the Michael Jarvis-trained Rakti has also stood his ground in company with Luca Cumani's Le Vie Dei Colori.
Sir Michael Stoute has the choice of running Arakan or Chic, while Godolphin have
Byron and Grand Emporium engaged, with Babodana a possible for Mark Tompkins.
Pastoral Pursuits,Autumn Glory, Brunel, Hurricane Alan and Mac Love complete the field. To follow

SUMMARY

11 declared here. Ladbrokes bet: 11-4 Rakti, 3-1 Le Vie Dei Colori, 6-1 Antonius Pius, 8-1 Elvstroem, Grand Emporium, 12-1 Arakan, Autumn Glory, 14-1 Hurricane Alan, Tarfah, 33-1 Babodana, Mac Love. Sir Michael Stoute won the race last year with Russian Rhythm and this season he runs Arakan. He looks outclassed here and always struggles when upped in class. The filly Tarfah is bang in form but this is her stiffest test to date. Hurricane Alan won a Group Two last time out and is heading the right way, must be on your short list. Autumn Glory beat Hurricane Alan last time out and there is nothing between them here. RAKTI has the proven Group One form and showed his class when winning the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. He wouldnt want too much rain and soft in the going report would be against him. It's perfect for him at the moment and any 3/1 should be snapped up. (4.4 on Betfair).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newmarket
Ultimatepoker.com 2000 Guineas
One Mile

The unbeaten Dubawi is all the rage for the 2000 Guineas. The son of Dubai Millennium, showed his well-being when hacking up under Frankie Dettori in a private trial staged by Godolphin in Dubai earlier this month.
This classy sort is as short as evens with Hills which is very short.
Footstepsinthesand who represents the powerful Aidan O'Brien stable could prove
better value here. The Ballydoyle handler definitely knows what is required here and the Giant's Causeway colt looked a very nice prospect in winning his two starts as a juvenile. Rob Roy the son of Lear Fan is well fancied by connections. Despite finishing a head second to Democratic Deficit on his debut this season he showed there was a lot more to come. In a slowly-run race, Michael Kinane repeatedly found himself stuck in traffic before Rob Roy picked up very nicely inside the last furlong.

SUMMARY

Dubawi, a son of the ill-fated Dubai Millennium and unbeaten in three starts, heads a list of 22 colts confirmed at the five-day stage. The hot favourite was very impressive last year but is no value in the ante-post lists and this weather could be a shock to him. FOOTSTEPSINTHESAND will be Fallon's choice ahead of stablemate Oratorio, winner of the Group One Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere and the tip should be taken. The Giant's Causeway colt scored on his debut before stepping up to take the Group Three Kilavullan Stakes last season. He has done nothing wrong in two races and has been working like a dream at home. Take the 7/1 with Ladbrokes who stand alone Corals are only 11/2. Narrow Craven Stakes runner-up Rob Roy is one of the main dangers WON 13/2

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Newmarket
Ultimatepoker.com 1000 Guineas
One Mile

David Wachman's Damson heads the betting and has been well-supported in recent days, due mainly to the fact that she reportedly works well with Greenham Stakes winner Indesatchel.The daughter of Entrepreneur ended her first season when suffering her only defeat in five starts when beaten two necks by Magical Romance and Suez in rain-softened ground in the Group 1 Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket at the end of last September and prevailing ground conditions in Ireland have led to her trainer bringing her to Newmarket to complete her training programme. Damson, owned by John Magnier and Michael Tabor, will be ridden by Fallon in the Guineas and arrived at Neville Callaghan’s stables on Tuesday evening and will remain there until after Sunday’s race.
Magical Romance had Damson in arrears when landing the Cheveley Park Stakes and
is bred to relish the step up to a mile. She has always been thought of as a Guineas filly, in the Cheveley park at HQ she wobbled at the top of the hill, but that was through inexperience, she'll definitely stay the trainer reports. Barry Hills has reported Maids Causeway to be thriving in her preparation for this. The daughter of Giants Causeway was a model of consistency in her first season and ended her campaign with a short head defeat of Fred Darling Stakes winner Pennkenna Princess in the Group 2 Rockfel Stakes over seven furlongs on the Rowley Mile last October. David Elsworths Cape Columbine was having only her third run this month when second to Karens Caper at Newmarket, she has been laid out for this and is the dark horse. Sir Michael Stoutes Shanghai Lily is unbeaten after two runs last season. She will improve on what she has achived so far and looks as if she will stay the extra furlong, big chance.

SUMMARY

Kieren Fallon has yet to commit himself to riding ante-post favourite Damson which is worrying. This is partly down to the weather as the filly needs top of the ground. Damson was below her best on rain-softened ground in the Cheveley Park Stakes last season and she would be a big drifter on the day if the ground was on the easy side of good. MAIDS CAUSEWAY beat Penkenna Princess by a short head in the Rockfel Stakes at Newmarket last October and the Barry Hills-trained filly will meet her old rival on 3lb better terms on Sunday. The trip will hold no fears and with improvement she should run a big race. At 16/1 Stanley she represents extremly good value. 2ND rec 16/1

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.albionracing.co.uk The weekend horse racing website packed full of useful information on racing in the UK and Ireland. Albion Racing.