10/04/10: Tony McCoy ended his Grand National jinx in superb style as he claimed victory at the 15th attempt on board 10-1 joint favourite Don't Push It.  Don't Push It jumped the last with Black Apalachi but pulled away down the straight to give trainer Jonjo O'Neill and owner JP McManus their first wins. Black Apalachi (14-1) was five lengths behind, ahead of State of Play (16-1).
Joint favourite Big Fella Thanks, with Barry Geraghty replacing injured jockey Ruby Walsh, finished fourth.
McCoy, the 14-time champion jockey, has ridden more than 3,000 winners, but Grand National victory had remained frustratingly elusive, with three third-place finishes his best efforts before Saturday.

2010 Grand National result:

1. Don't Push It (Tony McCoy) 10-1 joint favourite

2. Black Apalachi (Denis O'Regan) 14-1

3. State of Play (Paul Moloney) 16-1

4. Big Fella Thanks (Barry Geraghty) 10-1 joint favourite

08/06/08: New Approach, ridden by Kevin Manning and trained by Jim Bolger, held off the challenge of Tartan Bearer to win the Epsom Derby at 5-1. Last year's champion two-year-old, who was second in this year's English and Irish Guineas, won by half a length. The horse's participation at Epsom was in doubt up until earlier this week but trainer Bolger opted to run him.
The favourite Casual Conquest finished back in third, just ahead of Doctor Fremantle. Interview: Jockey Kevin ManningManning's mount pulled strongly early on and he had to work hard to get him settled but as the race hotted up, he made a crucial move from the outside to the inside rail after spotting a gap. He seized the lead from Tartan Bearer, ridden by Ryan Moore, and kept his cool to take the lead and then hold off the challenge of his rival to the line. Bolger had indicated in April the ante-post favourite of the time was an unlikely runner in the Classic. As a result of the trainer's comments, nearly all bookmakers withdrew the colt from their markets and even a week before the race, he said that he had left the horse in the Classic "by mistake". But he performed a dramatic U-turn at the declaration stage for the race last Monday and admitted the decision to run New Approach was worth it.

Cheltenham 2008: Denman powered to a formidable victory over stablemate Kauto Star to claim a famous win in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The 9-4 second favourite, trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Sam Thomas, won by seven lengths from 10-11 favourite Kauto Star, the holder. Neptune Collonges set the early pace and pushed Kauto Star to the line to make it a 1-2-3 for Nicholls's yard. Inglis Drever made Cheltenham history by beating Kasbah Bliss in a thrilling finish for a third World Hurdle win. The 11-8 favourite, who also triumphed in 2005 and 2007, was guided to the front by Denis O'Regan as they approached the last.
They jumped the final hurdle strongly and set off up the hill. Christophe Pieux on French challenger Kasbah Bliss chased hard but they were unable to get past the defending champion as the post approached.

05/01/08: Jim Lewis made a welcome return to the big stage as his Breedsbreeze beat a number of highly-regarded rivals in the Anglo Irish Bank Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown. And while the silver-haired owner's silks will forever be associated with the late Best Mate, his new star was even trumping the triple Gold Cup winner at this stage of their careers, as he finished second to Monsignor in the same race eight years ago. This renewal of the Grade One event was staged on testing ground, which did not help all of the runners but had no effect on Breedsbreeze as he gave trainer Paul Nicholls a third consecutive victory.

28/12/07: Long odds-on favourite Denman produced a solid jumping performance to win the Lexus Chase over three miles at Leopardstown on Friday. The seven-year-old, trained by Paul Nicholls, saw off Mossbank who just pipped 2006 winner The Listener for the runners-up position. Denman was left unchanged at 2-1 with VC Bet for the Cheltenham Gold Cup while Mossbank was cut to 33-1 from 50s. 26/12/07: Kauto Star out-jumped his rivals superbly to claim his second win in the King George VI Chase at Kempton. Last year's Gold Cup winner, with Ruby Walsh back in the saddle after injury, looked impressive throughout to claim a comfortable success by 11 lengths. The 4-6 favourite moved up a gear to challenge Exotic Dancer and Racing Demon in the back straight. From then on there was only one horse in it as he safely negotiated the rest of the fences to take victory.

08/Dec 07: Twist Magic handed Paul Nicholls a third successive victory in the paddypower.com Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown to continue the champion trainer's domination of the season's showpiece events. The Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, the Becher Chase and the Betfair Chase have made their way back to Ditcheat in recent weeks and Twist Magic kept the bandwagon rolling. Following on from stablemate Kauto Star's wins in the two-mile event in 2005 and 2006, the five-year-old ploughed through the Esher mud under Sam Thomas to see off Champion Chase hero Voy Por Ustedes. The pair were virtually upsides jumping the Pond Fence three from home but Nicholls' 5-1 shot soon had his measure and drew clear up the run-in for a three-length call. Voy Por Ustedes was favourite for a repeat victory at Cheltenham in March, but found himself headed in the betting by Twist Magic, who is now as short as 6-4 with totesport. The Tother One dotted up for a second time in six days when he landed the paddypowercasino.com Handicap Hurdle. The six-year-old has gone from strength to strength since his Exeter debut over timber last month and was not fully extended as he completed a hat-trick over hurdles as the 8-13 favourite.

17 Nov 07: L'antartique landed the Paddy Power Gold Cup in good style with favourite Granit Jack suffering a fatal fall two fences from home. L'Antartique's jockey Graham Lee produced a well-judged ride on Ferdy Murphy's seven-year-old - who had won at the Festival in March. And they clung on to win by a neck from Il Duce. Knowhere stayed on for third under a big weight, with Palarshan in fourth. 18th: Irish raider Sizing Europe romped away at the last flight to claim victory in the featured Greatwood Handicap in horrendous conditions at Cheltenham. Earlier, champion chaser Voy Por Ustudes was beaten by Kalca Mome but ran creditably with top weight.

Timmy Murphy steered home the five-year-old 5-1 shot to give trainer Henry de Bromhead his first career win at Cheltenham.

03 Nov 07: Ollie Magern continued trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies' unstoppable run of form by gamely making all to capture the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby for a second time. Two years on from blazing a trail in taking the West Yorkshire feature, the pint-size nine-year-old put his rivals to the sword under Paddy Brennan with a domineering display. Although winless since his last victory in the Grade Two event, the shrewd Yorkshire punters listened to Twiston-Davies' positive vibes in the build-up and he jumped off at a substantially well-backed 11-4. Out in the country on the second occasion, Brennan really started to stoke his mount up and his partner willingly began to stretch his lead. Taranis made most of the running to win the James Nicholson Wine Merchant Champion Chase at Down Royal.Going on after The Listener unseated Daryl Jacob at the third fence, Taranis (10-11) had to shrug off the challenge of Justified to take this Grade One contest. Ruby Walsh had one anxious moment when Paul Nicholls's charge almost ran out at the second-last fence. However, he ran on to beat Justified by five lengths, with Light On The Broom third.

Monet's Garden claimed the scalp of Gold Cup hero Kauto Star in a highly-charged renewal of the Bonusprint.com Old Roan Chase at Aintree.Paul Nicholls used the two-and-a-half-mile event as a springboard to one of the most productive campaigns in modern history last year. But his seven-year-old found a repeat success under his welter burden a step too far.However, the Clive Smith-owned gelding lost absolutely nothing in defeat as he went down to Cumbria's shining white star, Monet's Garden, to whom he was conceding a stone in weight. Indeed, a much bigger margin of defeat seemed inevitable as the four runners passed the stands on the first occasion as Ruby Walsh cajoled his mount along. A few reminders from the saddle soon followed as Monet's Garden and Ashley Brook opened up a commanding advantage down the back, with Kauto Star and Exotic Dancer scrubbed along at the rear.Monet's Garden was left in front four from home as Ashley Brook tumbled out of the race, but victory was not assured as Kauto Star stayed on tenaciously.
Despite his brave effort, Monet's Garden (9-4) held Nicholls' 11-10 favourite by a length and a half, with Exotic Dancer a further 20 lengths adrift. We feel this was a terrific run from Kauto Star and he will be hard to beat in the King George on Boxing Day.

Royal ascot 2007: Manduro held off the challenge of Dylan Thomas to win the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot on Wednesday.
Sir Percy set the pace for much of the race with Notnowcato and Manduro, the 15-8 favourite, on his tail.
As they entered the final two furlongs Manduro and Dylan Thomas both mounted a challenge and quickly went clear.
Dylan Thomas briefly threatened but Manduro, ridden by Stephane Pasquier, was never headed and went on to win by a length,
with Notnowcato in third.
Yeats defended his Ascot Gold Cup in spectacular fashion on Ladies' Day at Royal Ascot on Thursday.
Jockey Mick Kinane produced the 8-13 favourite as the field entered the home straight and they beat off the late challenge
of Geordieland (12-1).
The 50-1 outsider Le Miracle finished third with second favourite Sergeant Cecil trailing home in last place.
Aidan O'Brien's stayer won by a length and a half with Le Miracle three and a half lengths back in third.
Indian Ink revelled in the soft ground as she romped to victory in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Cherry Hinton made the early running from Scarlet Runner and they were still in front as they rounded the home turn.
A number of runners came to challenge in the straight but it was soon obvious there was only going to be one winner.
When they hit the furlong pole Richard Hughes asked the question and Indian Ink blew the field away to beat Mi Emma by
six lengths with Darjina third.

02/06/07: Frankie Dettori rode favourite Authorized to an emphatic win as he ended his Epsom Derby jinx in style. The Peter Chapple-Hyam-trained colt hit the front two furlongs out and finished five lengths clear to give Dettori his first win in 15 attempts. Eagle Mountain was second, with Aqualeem third out of the 17 runners. Authorized went off as the 5-4 market leader, having shown he was a genuine contender for top honours with victory in the Dante Stakes at York. Dettori's popularity, coupled with the colt's form, meant money poured in for Authorized ahead of Saturday's race and bookmakers had predicted a £20m payout should the pair win. However, the last odds-on favourite to win the Derby was the legendary Shergar in 1981 and there were some early nerves for Authorized's backers as he sat well off the early pace set by Kid Mambo. Authorized was 10th of the 17 runners as the field approached the descent to Tattenham Corner but he cruised through the field with two furlongs remaining and a few gentle reminders from his jockey put the race to bed. Light Shift gave Henry Cecil a famous eighth Oaks win after holding off the challenge of Peeping Fawn in the closing stages at Epsom. Ridden by Ted Durcan, the 13-2 shot made a decisive move to the top of the field with three furlongs to go. The Cheshire Oaks winner first shrugged off the challenge of leader All My Loving, ridden by Christophe Soumillon. Although Peeping Fawn put in a strong run, Light Shift found another gear late on to take the win.

Silver Birch, a 33-1 shot, held on down the finishing straight to become the sixth Irish-trained winner of the Grand National in the last nine years. Robbie Power's mount overtook Slim Pickings over the final fence and then resisted a late charge from McKelvey to win by three-quarters of a length. Long-time leader Slim Pickings was third, with Philson Run fourth. None of the favourites featured, with Point Barrow not even making it past the first fence at Aintree. Albion members landd a massive gamble backing this one at all rates from 70's down.

25/03/07: Veteran trainer Mick Easterby was a relieved man after his charge Gentleman's Deal held on to win the Winter Derby at Lingfield on Saturday. The 4-1 joint-favourite wore down Blue Bajan inside the final furlong and kept on strongly under Paul Mulrennan.
Grand Passion ran on close home to claim second place a neck behind, ahead of Illustrious Blue.
The winner is now 10-1 joint-favourite for the William Hill Lincoln at Newcastle next Saturday.

Cheltenhem Festival:                                                                                                                                                          TUESDAY:  Sublimity claimed a surprise victory in the Champion Hurdle after holding off fellow Irish challengers Brave Inca and Hardy Eustace. Philip Carberry's mount powered over the last hurdle to streak clear of reigning champion hurdler Brave Inca, with Afsoun finishing well in third. Hardy Eustace made the early running but faded after the final jump. Favourite Detroit City struggled throughout and was never in contention, finishing well back. Carberry was always travelling well just in behind the front two and when he asked his mount to quicken, Sublimity shot up the final incline to win by three lengths with Afsoun a further neck away. Gaspara rounded proceedings off on day one by putting her rivals to the sword in the Fred Winter Juvenile Novices' Handicap Hurdle. Having won the Imperial Cup just three days previously, Gaspara earned the father and son combination of Martin and David Pipe a £75,000 bonus by spreadeagling the field under an aggressive Andrew Glassonbury ride. The 4lb claimer made just about all the running and kicked his mount clear some way from home. FRIDAY: Ruby Walsh feels Kauto Star has "proved under pressure" just how classy a horse he is after landing the totesport Gold Cup. The seven-year-old beat Exotic Dancer, with 40-1 chance Turpin Green back in third, and the success was especially sweet for owner Clive Smith, who in addition to bagging over £200,000 for winning the blue riband of jumps racing, also picked up the lion's share of a £1million bonus offered by betting exchange firm Betfair.Kauto Star brushed the final fence, but never looked in real danger as he powered to a two-and-a-half length victory over Exotic Dancer, with Turpin Green a further two lengths back in third. THURSDAY: Inglis Drever, winner in 2005, became just the fourth horse to win the Ladbrokes World Hurdle for a second time at Cheltenham on Thursday. The 5-1 shot, ridden by Paddy Brennan, came to the front at the final flight and fought off a strong challenge from Mighty Man. Mighty Man was three-quarters of a length back with Blazing Bailey finishing third. Favourite Black Jack Ketchum and Tony McCoy, fell at the third fence.

10/02/07: Copsale Lad (14-1) has not enjoyed the best of luck in chases this season and the switch to the smaller obstacles paid off in the totescoop6 Handicap Hurdle at Newbury. Andrew Tinkler's mount breezed past Double Dizzy turning into the home straight and although Minella Tipperary tried to make a race of it, Copsale Lad galloped away and was five lengths clear at the post. He now heads for the Ryanair Chase where consitions look ideal for him. Cheltenham Gold Cup favourite Kauto Star was made to pull out all the stops as L'Ami pushed him right to the line in a dramatic Aon Chase at Newbury. And the Paul Nicholls-trained seven-year-old once again had to survive a final-fence blunder to collect in his Festival prep race, which was his fifth victory on the bounce. This horse will not jump round Cheltenham under pressure and must be opposed.

13/01/07: The favourite Ladalko powered away late on for victory in the Totesport Classic Chase at Warwick on Saturday. Ruby Walsh had the 9-2 chance nicely placed throughout and moved to challenge long-time leader Naunton Brook between the final two fences. The Paul Nicholls-trained eight-year-old jumped the final fence safely and stretched his advantage to the line. Mon Mome edged past Naunton Brook to pip him for second. This staying race had a good feel to it and the first three home should all be followed.

26/12/06: Odds-on favourite Kauto Star overcame some nervous moments to win the King George VI Chase at Kempton. Coming to the last fence well clear of the rest of the field, the 8-13 shot struggled to get over but somehow managed to land safely and win. Ruby Walsh's mount, trained by Paul Nicholls, had also recovered from a bad mistake at the fourth last fence. Exotic Dancer, ridden by Tony McCoy, edged out Racing Demon and Timmy Murphy for second. After his mistake with four to go, Kauto Star recovered superbly and looked a class act as he accelerated getting to the second last. Having now won the King George and the Betfair Chase, victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup will land a £1m bonus and he is a best price of 2-1 to win at Prestbury Park in March. We feel he will be worth opposing in March. He has never gone 3m 2f, it will be his toughest test to date, and his jumping will come under extreme pressure over a very tricky course. He is too short for a race like this.

09/12/06: Champion Hurdle favourite Detroit City outpaced old warrior Hardy Eustace to win a tactically-run International Hurdle at Cheltenham. Richard Johnson's mount, the 2006 Triumph Hurdle winner, went off as 4-6 odds-on favourite. He raced away from the dual Champion Hurdle winner on the long run-in to the final fence. Although Hardy Eustace battled back strongly up the Cheltenham hill, Detroit City held on for victory.

02/12/06: Odds-on favourite Kauto Star secured his second win in a row in the Tingle Creek Chase in Sandown with an impressive seven-length win. The winner of last month's Betfair Chase over three miles at Haydock dropped back in distance to claim success over two miles at 4-9. Ruby Walsh's mount started to take control on the back straight. He pulled clear of Voy Por Ustedes and Robert Thornton three fences from home and jumped safely for the win.  Champion trainer Paul Nicholls said afterwards that the six-year-old is still expected to run in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. My Way de Solzen looked exposed over 2 miles when beaten for pace by the promising Fair Along. My Way de Solzen who won the stayers last season needs further while Fair along was made clear favourite for the Arkle in March.

25/11/06: Members landed a nice touch here at rewarding odds. State of Play won the 50th running of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury to give in-form trainer Evan Williams the biggest success of his career. The 10-1 shot was given a quality ride by Paul Moloney and took the lead with a spectacular jump at the third-last.  Most of the 16-strong field were still in contention at the home turn but the final furlongs of the 3m 2½f race found them out and only six finished.  Juveigneur battled on for second with long-time leader Preacher Boy in third. Bookmakers are taking his chances seriously, with the sponsors quoting him at 14-1 for the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup, the same price as Ladbrokes and Blue Square, while Cashmans, Stan James and VC Bet are all 16s. Thats a bit ambitous at this stage. Vodka Bleu, a 15-2 shot, was going well coming into the home straight but ran out of steam. He will need to be dropped in trip.

18/11/06: Kauto Star put up an awesome display over 3m for the first time. He won the Betfair Chase at Haydock and was immediately installed as favourite for the King George VI Chase and next year's Gold Cup. Kauto Star is on course to earn a £1m bonus if he completes the treble by winning the King George and Gold Cup. Ruby Walsh sensibly tucked Kauto Star in behind the pace, giving him every chance to make the trip. Jumping impeccably, Kauto Star made his move three fences out and, having jumped the last flight in the lead, there was no looking back as he won by 17 lengths with Beef Or Salmon second and L'Ami third. Hardy Eustace eased to victory in the Ascot Hurdle to throw down a challenge for next year's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.  The Dessie Hughes-trained nine-year-old gave Conor O'Dwyer a good outing as the favourite beat Mighty Man into second place, winning by 16 lengths easing up. Henrietta Knight trained her seventh winner of the Peterborough Chase in nine years as Racing Demon justified his joint-favourite status. Graham Lee steered the 13-8 joint favourite home ahead of Thisthatantother, with joint favourite Monkerhostin third. 18/11/06

10th/11th/12th/Nov/06: Cheltenham Open meeting: Lots of quality performances seen over the three days. The most impressive wins came from Fair Along, Detroit City, Denman, Tipperary All Star, Star De Mohaison, My Will, Darby Wall, After Midnight and Standin Obligation. All these winners should be followed throughout the season. Copsale Lad must be the unluckiest horse in training. The money was down for the Paddy Power (backed into 6/1) and he was cruising through the race just behind the leaders. Knowhere fell at the 8th right in front of Copsale Lad and he was left at a standstill Fitzgerald continued in last place slowly trying to put him into the race again, unbelievably he made ground again and was travelling ok with a squeak only for the same thing to happen 5 out. Fitz then pulled him up. You can put a line through this form as he was so unlucky. This horse must be followed throughout the season.

28/10/06: On paper the Charlie Hall Chase as Wetherby looked ultra competitive with several Cheltenham Gold Cup hopefuls on show however Our Vic made them all look very slow as he hacked up in great style. Always prominent he swept to the front 4 out and pulled clear unchallenged. Talking horse Neptune Collognes could only stay on for second at one pace. Our Vic looked special and the King George must be the next target a race which looks ideal for him.

24/10/06: Cheltenham kicked off their jump season with a two day meeting which saw Lou Du Moulin Mas return to hurdles after a disappointing jums campaign last season. He duly won in a hack canter exploiting his low rating over hurdles. In this mood he can repeat the feat in the near future and must be followed. Paulo Dancer was very impressive in the 2m 5f novice hurdle streaking clear from his field to win pulling up. This ex french type is fully unexposed and open to any amount of improvement. In the 3m novice chase Gungadu looked good, he jumped right, made virtually all and was well in command after 2 out, staying on strongly for an easy win.

Epsom Derby: Sir Percy, trained by Marcus Tregoning and ridden by Martin Dwyer, won the Vodafone Derby, snatching victory from Dragon Dancer in a dramatic finish. The 6-1 shot crept up on the rail to beat the 66-1 chance by a short head, with Aiden O'Brien's Dylan Thomas (25-1) in third, a further head back. Hala Bek was fourth and pre-race favourite Visindar came home fifth.
Kieren Fallon's mount Horatio Nelson suffered a fracture to his front left leg and had to be put down.

Newmarket Guineas meeting: Favourite George Washington won the Stan James 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket, the first Classic of the season. The Aidan O'Brien colt, ridden by Kieren Fallon, finished two-and-a-half-lengths clear of 4-1 shot Sir Percy in second.
Olympian Odyssey, a 33-1 outsider, was a length and a half back in third. On the back of such a high-class showing, O'Brien may now decide to enter George Washington in next month's Derby, for which Sir Percy is fancied. Speciosa made all the running to win the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket. The filly was bought for just 30,000 Guineas (£31,500) but proved too good for the big guns, beating Confidential Lady into second with Nasheej third. Speciosa is trained by Pam Sly at her 20-horse yard on the family farm in the Fens and first announced her Guineas potential by winning the Nell Gwyn. It still looked like too big a task but she got stronger as the race went on and came home a 10-1 winner.

GRAND NATIONAL: The 11-1 shot Numbersixvalverde won the Aintree Grand National from last year's winner and joint favourite Hedgehunter. Coming to the last, Hedgehunter looked set to become the first back-to-back winner since Red Rum.
But Numbersixvalverde, ridden by Niall 'Slippers' Madden and trained by Martin Brassil in County Kildare, pulled away to win by six lengths. The other 5-1 joint favourite Clan Royal was given third in a photo-finish ahead of Nil Desperandum at 33-1.

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL: Tuesday: Brave Inca held off a strong challenge from Macs Joy to claim a thrilling victory in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham on Tuesday. Tony McCoy rode the Colm Murphy-trained eight-year-old strongly up the hill to earn a splendid victory. Hardy Eustace, ridden by Conor O'Dwyer and trained by Dessie Hughes, was bidding for a hat-trick of Champion Hurdle wins but came home third. Al Eile finished fourth to complete an Irish clean sweep of the places. Voy Por Ustedes put in a solid round of jumping to hold off the challenge of Monet's Garden and win the Arkle Trophy.  The Alan King-trained five-year-old, ridden by Robert Thornton, was in contention throughout and took up the lead at the top of the hill with Monet's Garden. The pair pulled away from the rest of the quality looking field but Thornton's mount jumped boldly and held on up the hill with Foreman holding on for third.
The Henrietta Knight-trained Racing Demon was well down the field while Missed That was 6th and Accordian Etoile fell when making a move, there will be another day for him. This was a top class raxe won in easy fashion and the winner can go all the way to the top of the two mile division.Wednesday: Newmill, ridden by Andrew J McNamara, ensures another good day for the Irish contingent with victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Two-time winner Moscow Flyer finishes back in fifth and is immediately retired by trainer Jessica Harrington after the race. The focus of the race was yje front three Kauto Star (fell), Fota Island (2nd) and Moscow Flyer( 5th). This looked a below average Champion Chase and lacked class. The 33-1 outsider Hairy Molly, trained by Joseph Crowley, continued his good bumper form to give Ireland their seventh win of this year's Cheltenham Festival. Carberry set out for home before the turn in the keenly-contest encounter and he looked strong on the run-in. The inexperienced Pressgang paid the price for veering to the right early in the straight and narrowly failed to catch the winner on the line. The runner up looks a good prospect for next season. The Mullins hype horses fizzled out, his stable may be under a cloud for now.Nicanor, ridden by Paul Carberry, outpaced the favourite Denman up the Cheltenham hill to take the opening race on the second day. Carberry kept his mount in contention throughout and when Denman took the lead turning for home, Carberry urged the Irish challenger on and he responded superbly.
Denman had been well-fancied but couldn't shake off the challenge of his rivals and was unable to find an extra gear at the climax while Refinement came through late to claim third. The front two pulled well clear after the last and both look to have good futures ahead of them. Thursday: My Way de Solzen held off Golden Cross to win a thrilling showpiece World Hurdle at Cheltenham on Thursday. Robert Thornton's mount (8-1) pipped Golden Cross by a head with two-time winner Baracouda back in fifth. Fondmort continued his Cheltenham love affair with a thrilling victory in the Ryanair Chase, to the delight of jockey Mick Fitzgerald.
The 100-30 joint-favourite was registering his fourth valuable success at the Prestbury Park circuit thanks to his victory over Lacdoudal and Impek. Fitzgerald reeled in Tony McCoy and Impek and held on bravely up the hill to make amends for a narrow defeat in last year's renewal. Our Vic ran a stinker and Pipes horses must be avoided for now. Friday: War of Attrition won the Cheltenham Gold Cup in spectacular fashion on the final day of the Festival. Conor O'Dwyer's mount (15-2) hit the front down the back straight on the second circuit and kicked on to beat Hedgehunter (16-1) comfortably. Forget The Past (9-1) under Barry Geraghty was third with 4-1 favourite Beef or Salmon trailing in 11th. This was a cracking Grand National trial for Hedgehunter who is now heading the ante-post lists. After some disappointing results on Thursday, Detroit City (9-2f) and Black Jack Ketchum (evens fav) give the punters something to cheer about by winning the first two races. Ruby Walsh finished the day with victory on the well-fancied Desert Quest for his third win of the week to edge out Tony McCoy for the top jockey award.

20/02/06: Lots of Cheltenham trials this weekend and lots of dreams shattered. The most puzzling performance was that of Silver Birch. Who would have been strong favourite for the Grand National with a good win however after never travelling he was pulled up. I just wonder if Nicholls has a bug in the yard as other horses under performed. Nicholls has seven weeks to get Silver Birch right, if he runs. My Way de Solzen was cut into 10-1 for next month's Ladbrokes World Hurdle after ploughing through the mud in the totesport.com National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell. With the big guns out we are looking for a new stayer and this horse could be the real deal. Mansony made all the running to win an eventful ladbrokes.com Flyingbolt Novice Chase at Navan. It would not come as a shock if this horse won the Arkle in March, remember this quote. Our Vic bounced back to his best Ascot totesport Chase at Lingfield he had made the early running with Fundamentalist and was left a clear leader when that horse fell at the sixth-last, having been possibly unsighted by the winner who drifted left on the approach to the fence. OurVic galloped on strongly and beat a classy looking field easily. He will take all the beating in the 2m 5f championship at the Festival. Macs Joy warmed up for the Smurfit Champion Hurdle with a smooth victory in the Red Mills Trial Hurdle at Gowran Park. The 2-5 shot, trained by Jessica Harrington, led at the third-last flight and was not troubled to score by four and a half lengths to complete a hat-trick on the day for his jockey Barry Geraghty. Kauto Star will go straight to the Cheltenham Festival in March without a prep run.

29/01/06: Hardy Eustace's blood was found to be wrong following his poor display in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown.
The dual Smurfit Champion Hurdle hero will be on the easy list for at least a week before connections decide if they can get another prep run into the nine-year-old before he bids for a hat-trick of victories in the Cheltenham feature in March. The eclipse of the reigning champion prevented the race from being a carbon copy of last year, but the finish had a familiar look to it as Brave Inca avenged his narrow defeat here 12 months ago with a battling performance of the sort that has become his trademark. In the firing line from the outset, he raised his game when strongly pressed on the run to the last and continued to respond all the way to the line to hold off Macs Joy. If the latter continues to improve he will take a hand in the finish at Cheltenham in March.

26/12/05: Kicking King managed to win the King George for the second year running. The 11-8 favourite battled to hold off the challenge of Monkerhostin in the closing stages to record back-to-back wins in the Grade One feature. And although Impek and then Monkerhostin did their best, Kicking King sneaked the win by a neck. There was disappointment for the highly-rated Kingscliff, who faded badly with about a circuit still to go and was never in contention. It was later discovered he had twisted a shoe during that run. Earlier, Irish challenger Feathard Lady put in a highly impressive run to win the Christmas Hurdle. The 6-4 favourite was kept well in touch by Ruby Walsh throughout the early part of the race behind former winner Intersky Falcon. But Walsh brought the Colm Murphy-trained filly through with two flights to go and she ran on strongly to win by 12 lengths. Self Defense held on well for second with Royal Shakespeare back in third. Moscow Flyer got turned over again in Ireland and it now sadly looks like age has caught up with him. Inglis Drever was soundly beaten. The Ladbrokes World Hurdle winner received reminders from his jockey Graham Lee before the last flight on the far side and was well-held in fourth and looking a tired horse when he fell two out. This defeat opens the World Hurdle to a new pretender for the crown.

12/12/05: With the Pipe runners running badly Our Vic pulled up the way was left clear for Le Passing well clear after jumping the last. However as usual the hill had a say as Sir Oj came with a wet sail to mug him on the post. This form looks suspect with Thisthatandtother and Risk Accessor falling and Fondmort travelling well until brought down. Exotic Dancer swooped from last to first to take the Cheltenham Novices Chase 2m 5f. This looked a nice win and improvement can be expected. War Of Attrition got turned over in the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase however the soft ground was to blame and he cannot be written off yet.

03/12/05: As expected Kauto Star stepped up to the plate to win the William Hill Tingle Creek Trophy at Sandown. He easily brushed Ashley Brook aside and galloped all the way to the line. It was only his fourth run over fences and he overcame his inexperience to win it nicely. Kauto Star is now likely to run in the totepool Game Spirit Chase at Newbury on February 11 en-route to a possible crack at the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

26/11/05: Trabolgan has been given a clean bill of health following his impressive display in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup and is on course for the Stan James King George VI Chase at Sandown on Boxing Day. It was a tremendous weight carrying performance for Trabolgan who defied 11st 12lb and recent history as he became the first horse for more than 20 years to carry top weight to victory in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury. Trabolgan cruised his way around under Mick Fitzgerald and stayed on strongly at the end of the gruelling three-and-a-quarter-mile contest to prevail in the colours of Trevor Hemmings. From the third-last fence the race developed into a duel as L'Ami and Trabolgan went clear of their rivals.There was nothing to choose between the pair as they jumped the last together and L'Ami just got his head in front touching down as he pulled out a slightly quicker jump.But Trabolgan, urged on by Fitzgerald and many of the large crowd, found more to power home by two and a half lengths. L'Ami (10-1) finished a length and three-quarters ahead of staying-on 11-2 favourite Cornish Rebel, with Comply Or Die (12-1) in fourth. The King George at sandown is next on the agenda.

The seven-year-old, having his first race since winning the Royal & SunAlliance Chase in March, defeated L'Ami to give Mick Fitzgerald and Nicky Henderson their first win in the Newbury feature.

19/11/05: Kingscliff has been given a clean bill of health after his heroics in the betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday. Robert Alner's eight-year-old put up a textbook display of jumping to land the first leg of the Betfair Million with a length and a quarter to spare from Beef Or Salmon. Kingscliff is now set to renew rivalries with Kicking King in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Sandown. Kicking King now gives me impession that 3m 2f on soft ground is just too far. The King George at Sandown will not help him either with the hill to climb.

13/11/05: Accordian Etoile showed electric speed up the hill to collar Tamarinbleu in the best 2m novice chase seen this season. Both look top recruits to fences and head ante-post lists for the Arkle in March. Albuhera plugged on in third and may have preferred better ground and should have raced my prominent. Bannow Strand won the Jersey Handicap Chase for Pipe leading from the front and jumping like a stag. He could be anything and must be followed this season.

12/11/05: 9-2 favourite Our Vic gave trainer Martin Pipe his eighth victory in the Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase with a smooth success from Monkerhostin in the big Cheltenham handicap. He was always prominent before taking a clear lead at the third-last and kept all challengers at bay and stormed up the hill to beat the staying-on Monkerhostin by two and a half lengths. He looks to have come back better than last year and the 2/12 mile championship at the festival looks at his mercy. Redemption was unlucky again at his jinx track, he was 1 length down travelling smoothly when falling 2 out. Innox ran a blinder to lift the 3m 3f chase and can pick up a national this season.

05/11/05: The Badger Ales Trophy at Wincanton went to Iris Bleu trained by Martin Pipe. This was a good performance off 11-02 however the nine year old looks fullt exposed now and another rise in the handicap should stop him. The runner up Paul Nicholls trained Red Devil Robert is more interesting. He cruised through the race and looked all over the winner until he found nothing on the run in. He will strip fitter next time out and is still improving, one to follow closely. In the totesport Rising Stars Novices' Chase Martin Pipes Celtic Son looked all over a chaser as he jumped and travelled superbly to easily beat Napolitan. The top nivice chases over 2m4f look at his mercy.

01/11/05: Best Mate had a fatal heart attack in the William Hill Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter on a sad day for jump racing. The Grade 2 contest went to the Philip Hobbs-trained Monkerhostin (10-1), who romped away under Richard Johnson to a comfortable four-length success over Kauto Star with Ashley Brook back in third. The placed horses will strip a lot fitter next time out and must be followed.
The winner trained by Hobbs looks ahead of the handicapper and must be followed, his next target is the Paddy Power gold Cup at Cheltenham..

31/10/05: Cerium got off the mark over fences on his chase debut at Warwick. I was not really impressed with his jumping but hisspeed got the job done. The horse that caught my eye was runner up Garde Champetre. He was a record breaker when JP McManus paid out 530,000 guineas for the gelding at the Doncaster May Sales of 2004. He had been described by his previous trainer as an outstanding jumping prospect but he looked to have a massive task on his hands, conceding 13lb to Triumph Hurdle fourth Cerium in the novices chase. However, he knuckled down to his task and did well to get within a length of Cerium at the line.The winner is clearly very smart but Garde Champetre has the scope to develop into a smart chaser and it is only a matter of time before he gets off the mark over fences.

29/10/05: Ollie Magern showed he is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the top races this season with an impressive all the way success in the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby. Immediately after the seven-year-old had demolished a high-class field in the Grade Two contest, his trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies issued a warning to the best staying chasers around.
Ollie Magern went straight into the lead under Carl Llewellyn in the £75,000 feature, despite the presence of confirmed front-runner Grey Abbey. The son of Alderbrook set a good pace considering the soft ground and he soon had most of his rivals in trouble as he jumped with real athleticism. Last year's winner Grey Abbey cried enough in the final straight and was pulled up approaching the penultimate fence as Kingscliff and Cheltenham Gold Cup second Take The Stand chased the leader. Ollie Magern was always holding too many guns, however, and he held on by one and a quarter lengths from Kingscliff, with another one and a half back to Take The Stand. The victory earned Ollie Magern quotes ranging from 10-1 with William Hill to 14-1 with Paddy Power and VC Bet for the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup, a race he missed last season due to injury.

15/10/05:  Jamie Spencer steered 25-1 shot David Junior to a shock victory in the Emirates Airline Champion Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday. The Brian Meehan-trained colt held off French raider and Man In The Knows selection Pride, a 12-1 chance, by three-quarters of a length. Sir Michael Stoute's Maraahel, another 25-1 outsider, finished a further one and a quarter lengths away in third.

02/10/05:  Kieren Fallon sealed a Longchamp treble with victory on Hurricane Run for his first Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe win. The Andre Fabre-trained 11-4 favourite stormed ahead in an exciting finish to win by four lengths from Westerner, with last year's winner Bago in third. Irish Derby winner Hurricane Run showed his class in the day's big race after a start which left him with plenty to do. But he surged to victory on the rails from a furlong out.

10/09/05:  Motivator once again found only Oratorio too good as the Derby winner was denied in a thrilling finish to the Baileys Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown. The Coral-Eclipse form was repeated exactly as Motivator was run down in the final stages of the mile-and-a-quarter contest to finish a half-length second, with flying filly Alexander Goldrun a further head back in third. connections were left looking forward to the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in three weeks, with the winner seemingly less than likely to take the same route.

19/08/05: The Albion Racing gamble was landed at last, as we have bigged her up all season and finally landed the coup at a cracking 7-1. La Cucaracha, who had comfortably defied top weight in a valuable six-furlong handicap on this course last month, found no trouble laying-up behind the leaders over her favoured  trip in the VCbet-sponsored Group 1. Produced to lead inside the last, she quickened to assert and then, inclined to slightly idle, was driven all out to the line to hold off The Tatling by a head. There is still more to come providing conditions are ideal, she must have fast ground and six furlongs. The next target could be the Hong Kong Sprint in December. Congratulations to owner-breeder Guy Reed on his first Group One success.

23/07/05: La Cucaracha 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 Two providing its on fast ground over six furlongs.  Azamour put up one of the best performances this season when cruising to victory in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes at Newbury. Azamour turned into the straight in last place, made up significant ground to three furlongs out before striking the front over a furlong from home to beat Norse Dancer and Bago by a length and a quarter and a short head. Behind them trailed the likes of Warrsan, fourth, last year’s winner Doyen, sixth, the Irish Derby winner Grey Swallow, seventh, and Oaks winner Eswarah, eighth.

Royal Ascot meeting June 2005: Racing fans witnessed two outstanding performances as the five-day Royal Ascot at York
meeting sprang into life.Shamardal won the opening Group One race the St James's Palace Stakes giving Australian jockey Kerrin McEvoy his biggest ever win. He can go on to capture some top class races. Valixir landed a surprise by beating the favourite Rakti in the other Group One race, the Queen Anne Stakes. Rakti held every chance but looked a bit flat. He can be forgiven this run and bounce back soon.Mick Kinane claimed the Prince of Wales's Stakes on Azamour as he scored a 208-1 treble at Royal Ascot at York.
The 11-8 favourite, trained by John Oxx and owned by the Aga Khan, put in a strong latesurge to win by one-and-a-half lengths. Ace ran well to claim second, with Australian pacemaker Elvstroem finishing in third. Dual Oaks and Breeders' Cup heroine Ouija Board trailed in nearly 30 lengths behind the winner. Trainer Ed Dunlop said the filly was always struggling after losing a shoe in the early stages.
The 7-4 favourite Westerner put in a strong late finish to win the Gold Cup on Ladies Day at Royal Ascot at York. The well-backed French challenger travelled well throughout and was brought to the front in the final furlong by jockey Olivier Peslier. The Elie Lellouche-trained six-year-old held on for victory by a neck from 33-1 shot Distinction, who was ridden by Johnny Murtagh. Irish challenger Vinnie Roe was five lengths further back in third. Maids Causeway just held off a sustained challenge from Karen's Caper to win the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot at York on Friday. The 9-2 shot, trained by Barry Hills and ridden by son Michael, was always in the first two and took up the lead four furlongs out. Hong Kong-based raider Cape of Good Hope set a new course record to win the Golden Jubilee Stakes on the final day of the Royal Ascot at York meeting. The 6-1 shot, ridden by Mick Kinane, won by a head from Galeota, with the 9-2 favourite Balmont back in third. The victory for the seven-year-old, who was fourth in the Kings Stand earlier in the week, extended his advantage in the Global Sprint Challenge.

04/06/05 Motivator had the world at his feet as  he strolled to a breathtaking win in the 226th Derby at Epsom. All the fears surrounding the 3-1 favourite's temperament, the ground, the track and anything else were forgotten by the time the 13 runners entered the home straight as Johnny Murtagh sat cruising in second place with many of his rivals already toiling. Lying in second place coming out of Tattenham Corner behind Hattan, Murtagh launched his challenge two and a half furlongs out and, though Dubawi briefly threatened to challenge them, the pair pulled further and further clear. Only Walk In The Park came from out the back to chase them home without a hope of catching the leaders.

14/05/05 Rakti won his sixth Group One victory of his career and he achieved it with contemptuous ease on his first start of the campaign. The Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes at Newbury was at his mercy as he powered away from the front thrashing a good quality field. Taken to post early and away from his opponents, Rakti showed nothing of his fabled temperament as the 7-4 favourite soon built up a commanding lead in the one-mile event. He only had to be pushed to the line by Robinson as he accelerated away to beat 50-1 outsider Mac Love by five lengths. The ultra-consistent Hurricane Alan finished a further length away in third, while Australian raider Elvstroem was far from disgraced just out of the placings. He broke the course record and will now go to the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot run at York now.

12/05/05 Johnny Murtagh left York on Thursday dreaming of a third win in the world's most famous race after Motivator maintained his unbeaten record with a stylish success in the totesport Dante Stakes. Motivator's comeback in the race recognised as the Derby's best trial could hardly have gone more smoothly. Taken to the start well away from his rivals, there was little sign of the fragile temperament connections had hinted at in the run-up to the contest. And in the race itself he was always travelling well before his burst of acceleration sealed the victory. Murtagh was sitting with a double-handful and he only had to push the button a furlong and a half out for his mount to pick up and move clear. He was a bit green but he was only having his third run and a lot more improvement can be expected.

01/05/05 New stable jockey Kieren Fallon landed the UltimatePoker.com 2000 Guineas for Aiden O'Brien with Footstepsinthesand, then completed a famous double by landing the 1000 Guineas on Virginia Waters. Fallon, meanwhile, was always prominent on the unbeaten Footstepsinthesand (13-2) and the son of Giant Causeway stayed on all the way to the line for a one-and-a-quarter-length
victory over 100-1 chance Rebel Rebel, with fellow 100-1 outsider Kandidate three-parts of a length further back in third.The daughter of Kingmambo flew late to leave Maids Causeway toiling two and a half lengths back in second, with Vista Bella staying on well to finish a further half-length away in third. Virginia Waters could well go to Epsom on June 3 for the Vodafone Oaks.

25/04/05: Jack High flew late to land the Betfred Gold Cup for Ted Walsh at Sandown Park on Saturday and in the process confirmed Martin Pipe as champion trainer. The Irish raider, who was last seen finishing runner-up in the Irish Grand National, put his stamina to good use when running on strongly to fly past Juveigneur on the run-in to score by a length and a quarter. The 16-1 winner, ridden by Garrett Cotter, was followed home by Juveigneur (14-1), with 4-1 favourite Kelami staying on well to take third, while Whitenzo (9-1) was fourth for Paul Nicholls.
Well Chief turned over favourite Azertyuiop to win the  Betfred Celebration Chase and in the process stamped himself as the best 2m chaser this side of the water. Moscow Flyer's crown will be his target next season.

09/04/05: Hedgehunter, ridden by Ruby Walsh, won the 158th running of the Grand National at Aintree. Second place went to Royal Auclair, with Simply Gifted taking third ahead of It Takes Time. With Walsh reluctant to ask his mount too many questions until it was absolutely necessary, a host of challengers loomed up a couple of lengths adrift of the winner on the run to the second-last fence. Walsh knew he still had something up his sleeve that would win the race and so it proved when he powered clear at the elbow to leave his rivals toiling.Royal Auclair, giving the winner 9lb and expected to be unsuited by the rain-softened conditions, ran a heroic race as he edged out Simply Gifted by a head for second. It Takes Time finished fourth for Timmy Murphy and Carrie Ford equalled the record for a female jockey as her mount Forest Gunner came home in fifth.

02/04/05: Barry Hills has an exciting filly in the shape of La Cucaracha. As a juvenile she picked up a couple of useful races until injury struck. Then she was off the track for a while. She reappeared in April 2004 and after three runs was injured again. Yesterday was her debut for the season and she won the Cammidge at Doncaster in good fashion. She has done well to recover from those setbacks and looks a filly to follow over the flat season.

Cheltenham Festival                                                                                                                                                           Moscow Flyer was superb when winning the Champion Chase after a faultless round of jumping. Azertyuiop landed in the water jump and never recovered finishing a sorry third. Well Chief ran right up to his best finishing second and with another year on his back
should be the biggest threat to all.
Baracouda could head to Aintree next month for a possible rematch with his Ladbrokes World Hurdle conqueror Inglis Drever.
Francois Doumen's star was runner-up for a second successive year in the stayers championship event when going down by three lengths to Howard Johnson's star. There was no excuses for the defeat and they could meet again in the Aintree Hurdle.
Kicking King was a brilliant winner of the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup. Some will point to the proximity of Take The Stand in second and label it as a sub standard renewal. The ease with which Tom Taaffe's star beat Celestial Gold and Strong Flow, neither of whom had any obvious excuses, mark this out as a good performance. I thought he would not stay the 26f but on good ground he got the trip easily. A doubtful runner a while ago he was available at 999/1 before Kicking King was confirmed a runner again.

06/03/05                                                                                                                                                                         Supreme Prince won Newbury's Vodaphone Gold Cup to give Philip Hobbs his 100th winner of  the season. Jockey Paul Flynn committed the 7-1 shot early up the straight but left enough in the tank to repel the late surge of Horus. Chauvinist did nothing wrong to finish in third while Simply Gifted landed a notable fourth. Favourite Buckby Lane faded badly while Venn Ottery finished well back on his first start for trainer Martin Pipe. As for cheltenham pointers, it was a fast run race from start to finish and they all had a hard race, none to note.

26/02/05                                                                                                                                                                          Farmer Jack defied top weight to run out a comfortable winner of the Racing Post Chase. Johnson's mount mounted a strong challenge with three fences to go along with veteran Banker Count and Iznogoud. But he jumped the second-last superbly to pull clear of his rivals and carried on for a six-length success. Carrying 11 stone 12 pounds and winning as easy as he did was a top class performance. Crystal d'Ainay showed a welcome return to victory with success in the Rendlesham Hurdle. The Alan King-trained mount was running with a visor for the first time and it paid dividends in a three-and-a-half length victory. Robert Thornton's mount went off at 5-2 and was nicely placed behind the favourite Royal Rosa turning for home. A good jump at the second-last put him into contention and he held off the challenge of Monet's Garden to win. This win cemented Baracouda's position at the haed of the Stayers field. 

19/02/05                                                                                                                                                                          Ebor hero Mephisto opened his account over timber and gave Johnson a double on the card with a facile success in the Brit Insurance Prestige Novices' Hurdle. He stalked the leaders and showed a nice turn of foot to win cosily. He looks like a speed horse and Aintree instead on Cheltenham looks more likely, a nice horse to follow. Novice Ollie Magern had blazed a trail up front in the £100,000 totesport Chase, but he was being stalked on the home turn by It Takes Time and the winner of the race 12 months ago, Hand Inn Hand. The trio held every chance at the last but it was It Takes Time who came out best as he ran on strongly close home to get the better of Ollie Magern by two lengths. Connections of Ollie Magern were delighted with Ollie Magern's performance and confirmed him on course for the Royal & SunAlliance Chase.

12/02/05                                                                                                                                                                         Thechampion trainer believes a combination of factors brought about the defeat of Celestial Gold by a length and a half and a head to Farmer Jack and Strong Flow in the Aon Chase. He pulled really hard for his head in the early stages wasting energy and could have done with a stronger pace. He would have needed the race as much as anything else and will come on for it. Strong Flow is improving slowly in every race but this was not Gold Cup form and Aintree could be when he peaks. Farmer Jack ran a cracker over a new trip of 3 miles and this has opened a few more doors for him. He is dropping back to 2 1/2 miles at Cheltenham in the Daily Telegraph Chase. Hobbs did not seem too fussed about Cheltenham and was looking to Kempton later this month and Aintree in April.

06/01/05                                                                                                                                                                        Beef Or salmon was turned over at Leopardstown as Rule Supreme continued the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup domination of Willie Mullins. Six of the past seven renewals of the Grade One showpiece have now gone to the trainer. The 8-15 favourite came with a challenge two out but found nothing leaving  Rule Supreme to coast home by 14 lengths. Excuses were made about a breathing virus but it looked like he was beaten fair and square by a better horse. Rule Supreme had been contesting second place alongside Best Mate when he fell at the last in the Lexus and had managed to jump round the Cheltenham track to land last year's Royal & SunAlliance Chase. He clearly has talent and it would be worth taking in the Gold Cup and snatching a place.

29/01/05                                                                                                                                                                       Well Chief put up a hugely impressive performance to defy top weight in the Grade 2 Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham. Ridden by Timmy Murphy  he had to concede 20lb to runner up Thisthatandtother but he stuck on gamely to win by a length and three-quarters.
This run puts him bang in the Queen Mother Champion Chase reckoning and he looks as if he is still improving. He is a best price  5-2 third favourite with William Hill for the Queen Mother.

22/01/05                                                                                                                                                                       Man In the know was spot on as Lord Transcend made amends for a crashing fall at Wetherby over Christmas with an impressive victory in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock Park on Saturday. Howard Johnson's grey went off a hot favourite for the Rowland Meyrick Chase at the West Yorkshire track but he crashed out at the eleventh fence.However, he made no mistake this time with a bold jumping display on very testing ground. Graham Lee soon had the eight year old in front, chased by First Gold with the rest of the field close up. Going down the far side for the final time the two leaders began to draw away from the pack and it soon became clear that Lord Transcend (9-4 favourite) was going the better. He is still unexposed and lightly raced so can build on this win as he climbs the ladder.
 

15/01/05                                                                                                                                                                          Cheltenham Gold Cup hopeful Strong Flow marked his comeback from a long injury lay-off with an encouraging third place finish at Warwick on Saturday. The Paul Nicholls-trained horse had been out of action since sustaining an injury 13 months ago.
He cracked a bone in his near-fore knee while winning the Feltham Novices Chase on Boxing Day 2003.
But on his return, he jumped fluently and travelled strongly for Ruby Walsh before tiring on the home turn. The big test has to be when returning to fences in his next race. He can pick up a nice race providing he stays away from the Cheltenham fences.

28/12/04                                                                                                                                                                         Beef Or salmon finally gained revenge over Best Mate in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown but only because conditions strongly favoured the Irish horse. Best Mate knockers are now out in force however you need to remember that it was heavy ground and Best Mate had a bad trip over injuring himself needing stiches. best Mate jumped superbly and travelled sweetly he just couldnt pick up in the home straight on very testing ground. At Cheltenham these conditions are very unlikely and you will see a different horse in March. Take any 4/1 available now, amazing value. Two horses that caught my eye in the Welsh National were L'Aventure, who stayed on really well finishing strongly and Take The Stand who fell 4 out when still travelling strongly, both must be followed.

26/12/04                                                                                                                                                                       Barry Geraghty and Kicking King survived a bad mistake at the last fence to take the King George VI Chase at Kempton.
The pair were well ahead coming to the last but the horse stumbled badly on landing but somehow Geraghty managed to hold on.
There was more drama on the run-in as the horse did well to avoid someone dressed as Santa who made a dash across the track in the closing stages. Although the stumble affected his momentum, Kicking King managed to hold on to the line to give trainer Tom Taaffe a famous victory, 29 years after his father Pat won the race on the legendary Arkle in 1965. He proved that he is the top 3 miler in the country but the extra 2 furlongs in the Gold Cup around Cheltenham would be a concern. Harchibald cemented his Champion Hurdle claims with a smooth win over the luckless Rooster Booster who desperately needs a pacemaker.

18/12/04                                                                                                                                                                        Baracouda’s connections feared a tactical race and a tactical race they got. It was a marathon that turned into a sprint, exactly what Baracouda did not want. Baracouda has speed as well as stamina, and would not give up this race without a
fight. Three out Crystal d’Ainay moved into pole position, but pole position is where Crystal d’Ainay’s rider Robert Thornton wanted Baracouda to be. So, approaching the second last, he took a pull, inviting McCoy to take over, but McCoy didn’t want to take over and took a pull as well. As the final flight loomed, Thornton tried again, applying the brakes before steering right so that Baracouda could do nothing but take the lead, but the lead was almost immediately under threat after Baracouda stumbled badly one stride after the hurdle, losing momentum but not his composure. In a titanic battle on the run in he held on by three parts of a length.

11/12/04                                                                                                                                                                        Cheltenham bonusprint Gold Cup. Everything was going to plan as Murphy sent Our Vic into the lead at the fourth last while Farmer Jack came down at the next when a length away in second. Monkerhostin, meanwhile, was making steady headway on the outside as Our Vic looked to stretch his rivals. And stretch them he did as he had everything bar Monkerhostin beaten off by the final fence, which he seemed to jump well enough only to slither to the ground on the landing side. This horse stays three miles and would have galloped up the hill for a great win. Murphy should have let Our Vic run down his fence instead of trying to straighten him approching it making him lose his concentration. The screens went up and the worst was feared but he was only winded. He is still entered along with Therealbandit and Pipe will decide which one runs, so fingers crossed he could still line up. 

4/12/04                                                                                                                                                                         Moscow Flyer gained revenge over his old rival Azertyuiop in a thrilling Tingle Creek at Sandown. Moscow Flyer was electric at the fences and took up the running going towards the pond fence. As Azertyuiop and Well Chief tried to mount a challenge he powered on jumping well and galloping up the hill. Well Chief ran right up to his best and only needs to find about 6lb improvement between now and March to get involved. One Knight put up a superb performance to overcome a 371-day absence and land the John Hughes Rehearsal Chase at Chepstow on Saturday. Off the track since a fall at the first in last year's Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, Philip Hobbs's eight-year-old led from pillar to post to defeat L'Aventure by a length and a quarter. If he comes out of the race ok then the skies the limit for this talented horse, the Coral Welsh National looks at his mercy.

27/11/04                                                                                                                                                                  Celestial Gold won the Hennessy Gold Cup after a thrilling battle to the finish at Newbury. Jockey Timmy Murphy made his move with three fences to go and fended off a stern challenge from second placed Ollie Magern and Royal Auclair back in third. Celestial Gold becomes the first horse since Bright Highway in 1980 to win the Paddy Power Gold Cup and the Hennessy. He will rise about another 8lb for this but can still pick up another top staying chase before tackling the big guns at level weights. Ollie Magern is still a novice and ran a blinder in second staying all the way to the line. If he keeps to the novice route then he must go close in the Sun Alliance at the festival.

21/12/04                                                                                                                                                                   Silver Birch held off Just In Debt to win the Becher Handicap Chase in the hands of Ruby Walsh. The seven-year-old was always in the lead group and took up the running at Aintree when Ardent Scout unseated his rider at the ninth of the 22 fences. The horse loved the soft ground jumped and stayed really well. He still looks well handicapped and can pick up a top staying chase before a crack at the Grand national.

Cheltenham Open 12/13/14 November
A great three days racing at Cheltenham with plenty of pointers towards future winners. Tikram was travelling well in the Paddy Power until clouting two fences which put him out of contention. He was in good order after the race and will be out next weekend. On an easier track with softer fences he can get his head in front. Fundamentalist had no problem dropping back to two miles on Sunday beating a small but quality field in good style. With any races from two to three miles well within his compass the skies the limit.
He must be followed until beaten. You're Special looked good but ran a bit freely early on then faded. Off his current mark he can win in the near future. Cerium landed the Juvenile hurdle over two miles and looked a very classy animal, the very best races are at his mercy. Other notable weekend runners.Keen Leader ran as though needing the run and must be kept on the right side of. Harchibald made Back In Front and Macs Joy look one paced as he cruised through on the bit to win as he liked
unextended. He was getting 5lb off Back In Front but giving Macs Joy 3lb.

05/11/04                                                                                                                                                                          Royal Auclair looked a reformed character as he easily won the Badger Beer chase at Wincanton on Saturday. Clearly benefiting from his surgery having a wind operation, Royal Auclair had been delighting Nicholls with his recent work and looked a rejuvenated performer as he justified some decent market support at 7-2.  He can win again off his current mark. Another horse that caught my eye was Perfect Fellow, this fragile horse came there cruising only to blow up through lack of fitness. If he stays sound he can pick up a nice handicap.

30/10/04:
Grey Abbey put up an impressive display of front running under Graham Lee to make light of a step up in class in the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on Saturday. Winner of the Scottish National in April, the grey jumped well throughout and will always be hard to pass on soft ground. It will be difficult for him in handicaps now off top weight. The Peter Marsh at Haydock in January looks to be the next  target. Lord Sam was never jumping well and fell six out. Connections were not despondent and felt he would be much happier on better ground than he encountered  on Saturday. Sir Rembrandt battled well and will come on for the run, the Gold Cup is the main target again, but he will not run in the King George.

23/10/04:
Champion Hurdle hopeful Rigmarole got his season off to a good start with victory at Kempton. The Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old won the RHT 40th Anniversary Hurdle for the second year in succession. The 4-5 favourite, ridden by Ruby Walsh, was always travelling smoothly and claimed a comfortable 2½-length victory over Trouble At Bay. Dictum was a further three lengths back in third. This was run on good-soft and with no early pace turned into a sprint over the last two. Rigmarole looks better than ever and will come on again for this run, he must be followed.

19/10/04:
Arkle Trophy favourite Sporazene survived a couple of scares to open his chasing career with victory at Exeter. The Paul Nicholls-trained runner, winner of the County Hurdle last year, was sent off the 1-2 market leader under Ruby Walsh in the Stuart's Volvo Truck And Bus Beginners' Chase.
His supporters suffered an anxious time as Sporazene stumbled on landing at the second fence, with Walsh having to use all his skill to stay in the plate. Sporazene recovered well, though, and was soon back on the bridle as Madam Flora and Wrags To Riches cut out the early running.
Turning for home Sporazene was still lobbing along nicely and he jumped into the lead four fences out, with Madam Flora his only likely challenger. Sporazene showed his class as he pulled effortlessly clear but he had to survive another hairy moment at the second last, when he got in too close. For his first run it was ok but with stiffer tests ahead and tougher fences he needs to learn very quickly.

10/10/04:
Martin Pipe's Comply Or Die picked up where he left off last season with an impressive success in the Rensburg Beginners Chase at Bangor on Saturday. The 5 year old had some smart form last term, winning over hurdles three times before finishing fourth in the Royal & SunAlliance Novices Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. He may well be one to follow this season after making all the running under Timmy Murphy in the extended two and half mile event. Comply Or Die travelled sweetly throughout and jumped well to hold the challenge of the hat-trick-seeking Hunting Yuppie easily on the run-in to score by two and a half lengths. He could run up a sequence before Christmas and must be followed.

06/07/04:
Doyen was a brilliant winner of the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes at Ascot. The four-year-old, giving trainer Saeed Bin Suroor his fifth success in the midsummer middle-distance championship, stormed home under Frankie Dettori in the Godolphin colours. The American raider Hard Buck ran a tremendous race to hold on for second ahead of Godolphin's second string Sulamani. But there was only ever going to be one winner of the big Group One prize. Dettori took the 11-10 favourite to the front two furlongs out, after which the result was never in doubt, and he crossed the line three lengths clear of 33-1 outsider Hard Buck, ridden by Gary Stevens and a first Ascot runner for American trainer Kenny McPeek. Sulamani (7-1), ridden by Australian Kerrin McEvoy, was a head away third. Sulamani must be followed if he gets the soft ground he needs. Doyen is heading to Ireland for his next outing in the Irish Champion Stakes.

24/07/04:
Jewel In The Sand was given a quote of 33-1 by Coral for next season's 1000 Guineas after maintaining her unbeaten record in a thrilling finish to the Chippenham Lodge Stud Cherry Hinton Stakes at Newmarket
Jewel In The Sand (2-1) was making it three wins from three starts and her trainer Richard Hannon said: "I don't think a mile will be a problem. She settles so well and she is such a lovely filly to look after, you would not know she was in the yard. "There were a lot of hard-luck stories when she won at Royal Ascot, but she had as many as anything else and she still won. She is not just a two-year-old, she could be anything."
Soviet Song spoiled the Attraction party at Newmarket yesterday when she brought her rival's unbeaten run to a grinding halt in the UAE Equestrian And Racing Federation Falmouth Stakes. Three times a Group One winner already this season, Attraction was sent off an odds-on favourite to make it nine wins from nine starts, but she had no answer to the year-older filly's devastating late burst of speed.

05/06/04:
North Light the 7-2 joint-favourite, beat Rule Of Law (20-1) by a length and a half to give the trainer and the champion jockey back-to-back victories in the Vodafone Derby following Kris Kin last year. Let The Lion Roar (14-1) was third, a further head away, with Percussionist fourth. Fallon had the Dante Stakes winner in an ideal position on the shoulder of Meath from the start. He was always going to try to make full use of his mount's undoubted stamina and so it proved, as he took up the running with three furlongs to run and the challengers couldnt get to him.

23/05/04:
Attraction made history at the Curragh on Sunday afternoon when she became the first filly to complete the English Irish 1000 Guineas double. Mark Johnston's unbeaten star followed up her Newmarket success in brilliant style by taking the Boylesports sponsored event by a length from Alexander Goldrun with David Loder's Illustrious Miss two lengths back in third. This filly has bags of speed and could easily drop back in trip, she must be followed until beaten.

01/05/04:
Haafhd stormed to victory with a tenacious performance to take the first Classic of the season, the UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas, at Newmarket on Saturday.
Trainer Barry Hills claimed the contest for the second time and had the pleasure of seeing his son, Richard, ride the 11-2 winner to glory. The field was spread-eagled after only a couple of furlongs and the fast pace finished a lot of fancied horses off early on. Hills opted to keep Haafhd in the centre of the track, just behind the pacesetters Golden Sahara and Tumblebrutus.
Favourite One Cool Cat, who was all the rage in the betting ring, travelled well enough in rear but found nothing when shaken up at halfway by Jamie Spencer and was all but pulled up near the line as he trailed home. The horse was later diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat. Haafhd was sent into the lead two furlongs out. French raider Whipper threw down his brave effort on the far rail and was a persistent challenger, while Snow Ridge came out of the pack to get nearest to the winner at the line under Frankie Dettori.
The winner is out of Alhaarth and Al Bahathri who were 1m 2f horses so he is unlikely to stay the Derby trip if he runs in it.
Attraction silenced the doubters with an outstanding all the way victor y in the UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas at Newmarket on Sunday Quickly away, Attraction led the field in the centre of the course with Carry On Katie in close proximity and Spotlight racing alone on the stands side. Carry On Katie was the first to cry enough over two furlongs out as Hathrah and Silca's Gift put in their glory bids. But Attraction soon had their measure, while Sundrop's challenge came too late. Attraction, returned at 11-2, held the late thrust of runner-up Sundrop by half a length, with Hathrah the same distance back in third. Both placed fillies look good for the Oaks as both looked in need of further.

Aintree festival:
Amberleigh House produced a well timed determined run to lift the £600,000 Martell Cognac Grand National in front of a record crowd of over 70,000 at Aintree on Saturday.
As the remaining runners approached the second-last of the 30 fences, Amberleigh House fourth and a long way behind the leading group of three looked booked for 4th place. Irish hope Hedgehunter took a crashing fall at the last leaving Clan Royal and Lord Atterbury in a battle to the line.
Jumping the last with a dozen or so lengths to find under Graham Lee, he gradually clawed back the deficit to draw alongside the leaders 50 yards out and edge ahead in the dying strides to win by three lengths in a thrilling finish.
An exhausted Clan Royal (10-1 co-favourite) held off Lord Atterbury (40-1) for second place by another two lengths, while a long way further back last year's winner Monty's Pass (20-1) held off Spotthedifference for fourth. Hedgehunter looks the horse to follow as the ground would have been plenty quick enough here and back on soft ground can win a big race.
Horses that caught my eye over the 3 days were:
Garde Champetre who relished the step up to 2 1/2 miles after Cheltenham and can move on to better things.
Rhinestone Cowboy who should try 3 miles and maybe the Stayers next season.
Well Chief who put Thisthatandtother in his place and confirmed he was an Arkle winner on merit champion chase for him next season.
Dont give up on Shardam who fell in the grand National, he can win a top staying chase in time.
Albuhera needs to go chasing now after a busy season.

Cheltenham festival:
Best Mate became one of the true greats of National Hunt racing as he became a three time winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He equalled Arkle’s record of three consecutive wins in the sport’s blue riband event with a hard fought success over Sir Rembrandt and Harbour Pilot. He travelled and jumped beautifully around the inside for Jim Culloty as First Gold set a searching gallop. He didn’t get the best of runs from the second last and Culloty had to battle his way through.
First Gold had cried enough by this stage but Harbour Pilot, who also raced prominently, was still bang there while Sir Rembrandt was making ground hand over fist on the outside. Best Mate showed his class and after first fighting off Harbour Pilot he still had enough in hand to repel Sir Rembrandt’s late thrust. Beef Or Salmon, held up in the rear early, stayed on well to take fourth.
First Gold ran a blinder and will take some pegging back at Aintree in two weeks time. Sir Rembrandt can pick up a national before the season has finished. Harbour Pilot should run a big race in the Grand National. A few pointers.Albuhera's run was too bad to be true and we cannot give up on him yet. Garde Champetre ran a blinder in the Novice Hurdle but is crying out for 2m 4f, he must be followed at Aintree if stepped up in trip. Central House was still in contention when falling 2 out, he must be kept on the right side.
Shardam is still well weighted but needs a stiffer test of stamina, 3m 4f plus.
Kelami needed his run here and will strip fitter next time out, a drop back in trip will help.

06/03/04:
In the Vodafone Gold Cup at Newbury Seebald showed signs he was coming back to form with a good solid run in a quality line up. His jumping may let him down at Cheltenham but he is worth considering a few weeks later at Aintree where the track will suit.
The winner Isio may avoid Cheltenham and head straight to Aintree where he may come up against Native Upmanship. Farmer Jack was gambled on before the race but was very keen and ran poorly, he is better going right handed.

21/02/04:
Our Vic past the test and looked pure class as he brushed aside a useful field in the Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novices Chase at Ascot. He must go on your short list for the Sun Alliance Chase at Cheltenham however winners of the Reynoldstown have a poor record in that race.
I cant believe the improvement Rigmarole has found this season and he is now second favourite behind Rooster Booster for the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham. He oused class as he gallloped all over Intersky Falcon in Wincanton's Grade 2 Axminster Kingwell Hurdle.
Thisthatandtother hacked up in the two mile R. O. Dando & Sons Novices Chase and that will put him spot on for the Arkle.

08/02/04:
It was great to see Florida Pearl winning at Punchestown on Sunday and he looked like he retains plenty of ability beating a classy looking field. He is now being prepared for the Gold Cup in March but I would be more interested in backing him to win the 3 miler at Aintree in April. Pizzaro scraped home in the 3m novice chase and will relish the extra distance in the Sun Alliance Chase at Cheltenham.

31/01/04:
Native Upmanship won his third MacLochlainn Road Markings Limited Kinloch Bra e Chase in a row at Thurles on Sunday. Arthur Moore's 11-year-old has finished second in the last two runnings of the Queen Mother Champion Chase and that race is once again his target. However this will only be his prep run before his real target the two and a half miler at Aintree. Ladbrokes cut Native Upmanship's odds for the Queen Mother Champion Chase to 14-1 from 20-1, my advice he may run in a small race shortly before Cheltenham. When he wins that lay him for the Queen Mom. Fill yer boots at Aintree.

24/01/04:
French star Jair Du Cochet stormed to an easy success in the Grade 2 Pillar Chase at Cheltenham. But his task was eased when favourite Threalbandit fell at the fourth from home when travelling well for Tony McCoy.
Rince Ri claimed runners up spot and put in a good trial for the Grand National. The winner bounced back from his pulled up effort when favourite for the King George last time. Jair Du Cochet is in to 6-1 for the Gold Cup with Ladbrokes although they are talking about the Cathcart which would be the better option.
Therealbandit was none the worse for his spill but Andrew Thornton felt there may have been something amiss with the pulled-up Sir Rembrandt. Truckers Tavern fell when beaten at the third last and its back to the drawing board with him. Therealbandit is the eyecatcher but he needs to brush up his jumping against the best.
I must mention the Extra Man (horse to follow 03/01/04 Sandown) who fell in the Timeform Handicap Chase. Travelling sweetly again from the front he was bang there with every chance when crumbling on landing at the 4th last. this horses luck will change and off his current mark he will win.

10/01/04:
At Ascot Rooster Booster got back to winning ways in the 2 miler even though conditions didn't suit. The runner up Hasty Prince ran a cracker over a trip too short for him. Back over 2 1/2 Miles he must be backed.
Azertyuiop ran a terrific race in defeat when second to Isio in the Victor Chandler Chase. Giving the winner 10lbs he just got beat on the line in one of the races of the season. The horse that caught my eye was Isio's stablemate Got One Too. Upped in class and rested after his last run hestill looked as if he needed it. Turning for home he was travelling best of all only to fade in the straight. Dropped in class he is worth following.

03/01/04 Sandown :
St Pirran put a lot of training problems behind him as he took the ladbrokescasino.com Handicap Chase under Ruby Walsh. The Paul Nicholls trained 7-2 chance travelled well but looked in trouble when blowing up before the second last fence. However, Walsh got to work on the winner, who stayed on again to join leader Wahiba Sands at the last before going clear on the run-in to win by three and a half lengths. St Pirran can build on this win and should be able to follow up if not aimed to high. Wahiba Sands has got to a near winning handicap mark again and should pick up a small race.
The Ladbrokes.com Chase went to Over The Storm who can follow up off this mark. Ballylusky jumped poorly round Sandown and will be suited to an easier track. The Extra Man finished last but caught my eye as one to follow. He made vitually all the running and jumped really well he was still in contention four out but faded. He is extremely well handicapped at present and must be followed.

26/12/03 Kempton :
Unbelieveable, a 2-2 1/2 miler wins the King George. Edredon Bleu caused an upset when taking the King George at 25/1.
The 11 year old super sub just about made all under Jim Culloty, silencing those who said he would not stay. He headed by eventual third First Gold who looked like he was going to kick on and take the race but he ran out of gas. Edredon Bleu regained the lead turning for home and then stayed on too strongly for the runner up Tiutchev.
First Gold still looked like he needed the run (his first chase this season) and must still be followed.
Strong Flow was awful at jumping round Kempton but still managed to win, he sustained a bad injury during the race and is out for the season.

13/12/03 Cheltenham-Haydock :
Truckers Tavern and Davenport Millenium both finished second for me this weekend and cost me a fortune. Truckers Tavern jumped boldly and was unlucky to slip badly on the first circuit costing him several places. Soon back in contention he jumped superbly but had no answers to the full of running and error free Keen Leader. Truckers will strip fitter next time out and given a bog must be followed.
Davenport Millenium had to cut out his own running and when swooped on by six of them at the last he responded to pressure to just get run out of it by Rigmarole on the line. This is another to strip fitter next time out and the Champion Hurdle is not out the question.

06/12/03 Sandown :
Thisthatandtother justified his position at the head of the Arkle betting with an awesome display at Sandown. He cruised through the race and excellerated between the last two to storm up the hill.
Even this early he looks nailed on for the Arkle I hope you got on at 4/1 as advised (check ante-post bets).
Coral make Thisthatandtother just 7-4 for the Arkle whilst Paddy Power go 11-4.
Sir Rembrandt recouped our losses after he fell in the Hennessy with a faultless display in the John Hughes at Chepstow. He may go for the Welsh National for which he would certainly appeal off a low weight. He jumped superbly at Chepstow and this monster of a horse could be very special.

29/11/03 Newbury :
There is only one name on everybody's lips after this weekend's action and that is Strong Flow. He emerged as a leading contender for top chasing honours this season with a breathtaking victory in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury. Despite one blunder, the 5/1 shot put in a flawless round of jumping to beat Joss Naylor with Take Control third and Hedgehunter fourth. He was immediately made 7/4 fav for the Sun Alliance Chase in March, that's far to short.
A quick mention for one of my favourite novice hurdlers this season, Albuhera, gave weight away and a beating to a good looking field at Newbury. Keep following this one.

22/11/03 Ascot :
Kingscliff slaughtered a top class field in the coral.co.uk Handicap Chase at Ascot on Saturday. Andrew Thornton produced the ride of the season when his rigns snapped at the third of the 20 fences. This was the handicap debut of Kingscliff, the unbeaten winner of last season's Christie's Foxhunter Chase at Cheltenham.
Horus, the top weight, threatened to challenge, but he was unable to get to Kingscliff, who drew away over the final fence to score by 17 lengths. Bookmakers cut his odds for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and Paddy Power's initial 25/1 from 33/1 did not survive long, the Irish firm forced to contract the price to 16/1 to sit alongside Ladbrokes, Victor Chandler and William Hill, while Coral offer 14/1. This horse can go to the very top and must be followed.
Iris Royal gained victory in the Grade Two First National Gold Cup Chase 30 minutes later. Conditions were perfect for him and he was getting lumps of weight off his rivals. The handicapper will put him up about 7lbs for that win and he may struggle next time out. Ibal ran a cracker and now he is fitter must be followed along with Le Roi Miguel who hated the soft ground and longer trip. Farmer Jack needed that run and will be a lot straighter next time out. You will see better performances from this field when conditions are right for them.

14th/15th/16th November Cheltenham :
Thisthatandtother was the most impressive winner of the weekend. He had the challenge of jumping the Cheltenham fences and passed with flying colours. He looked every bit as good as Azertyuiop did at this time last year, in fact classier. The skies the limit with this one and 4/1 for the Arkle could be good value come March.
Shardaam made every post a winning one when leading his field a merry dance. He looks well ahead of the handicapper and must followed.
Self Defense and Albuhera had a battle royal and both looked useful animals as they pulled clear of their field. Self Defence will come on for the run and can climb the 2 mile ladder to greater things.

01/11/03 Ascot :
Albuhera appeared quickly here and looked a good thing before racing started. Martin Pipes Visibility was gambled on in the morning and as the race unfolded McCoy got a dream run up the inside and won a shade cosily. Albuhera was kept 12 horses wide on the final bend which didn't help his cause. He travelled well throughout but needed an easier galloping course and a smaller field. He can be forgiven this run and must still be followed on fast ground. The winner prefers soft ground and enters the notebook. Hot Shots put some decent horses in their place and considering that he hasn't jumped a fence for a long time he never put a foot wrong.

28th/29th/11/03 Cheltenham:
The two day midweek Cheltenham meeting produced a couple of very good performances and the horses concerned must be followed. First up on the Tuesday was the Martin Pipe novice chaser Puntal. He was not quite top class over hurdles but may have found a new lease of life over the bigger obstacles. Faced with the daunting Cheltenham fences on his chasing debut he took it all in his stride and hacked up jumping supremely well. Sure to run up a sequence of wins in the near future.
Just as impressive and ousing class was Albuhera from the Nicholls yard. He faced a field containing several previous winners but travelling well on the bit throughout he soon brushed them aside for an easy win. He may return to Cheltenham for the Open meeting in November, do not miss this one. 11th/12th/13th Mar 2003:
Francois Doumen's faith in First Gold was rewarded with an all-the-way success in the feature race, the £150,000 Martell Cognac Cup, on the opening day of the Grand National meeting at Aintree. First Gold and rider Thierry Doumen lead this contest from start to finish, eventually landing the spoils by an easy 14 lengths. Sometimes too extravagant for his own good with his jumping, he had his rivals in trouble by the home turn and simply coasted home. Lady Cricket, who was tailed off with a mile to run, stayed on to grab second spot from Commanche Court with Valley Henry fourth.

11th/12th/13th Mar 2003:
Best Mate produced a brilliant display at Prestbury Park on Thursday to become the first horse since 1971 to win back-to-back Cheltenham Gold Cups. Henrietta Knight's superstar travelled brilliantly throughout under Jim Culloty and at no stage did he look like doing anything other than bolting up. He cruised down the hill on the bridle after jumping past stablemate Chives and drew further clear in the straight to stamp himself the outstanding chaser of recent years. The 13/8 favourite had 10 lengths in hand over Truckers Tavern (33/1) at the line with Harbour Pilot (40/1) staying on well in third after making a number of errors. Irish novice Beef Or Salmon proved a big letdown after getting no further than the third obstacle where he parted company with Timmy Murphy.
Moscow Flyer came into the spotlight to become 'Ireland's number one' as he streaked home in the £250,000 Queen Mother Champion Chase, the highlight of the second day of the Cheltenham Festival. Bookmakers were barraged by punters backing the 7-4 favourite, who then raised the roof as their charge took the prize. Doubts over the jumping technique of last year's Arkle Chase winner were silenced as he hammered Native Upmanship (12-1) by seven lengths with Cenkos (7-1) a further three lengths back in third. Although the race was marred as a spectacle when Seebald and Latalomne, disputing the lead, crashed out at the second-last fence, it was hard to believe Moscow Flyer would not ultimately have proved superior to either rival. Old stager Edredon Bleu helped to cut out a fierce early pace with Latalomne and Tiutchev until the last-named came down at the fifth fence, forcing Tony McCoy to the deck for the third time at the meeting. Such was the ferocity of the gallop that star chaser Florida Pearl, dropped back to two miles for the first time in six years, was taken off his feet and forced into making mistakes which ruined his chance. Latalomne and Seebald had got to the front by the turn out of the back straight but despite making a blunder at the last open ditch, Moscow Flyer was travelling full of power and confidence on the outside. Then at the second-last fence, Vinnie Keane's worst nightmare came true. Having fallen at the same obstacle when in the lead in this race 12 months ago, the conditional jockey suffered the same fate as his mount seemed to slip on landing and fell sideways. Independently, Seebald and Norman Williamson also came down, leaving Moscow Flyer, who neatly sidestepped the melee, clear of his toiling opponents. From that point on, many of the 50,000-strong crowd were in raptures and although Native Upmanship gave his all up the run-in, he never looked likely to overhaul the winner.
The Philip Hobbs-trained Rooster Booster (9-2) was an emphatic winner of the Champion Hurdle (2m) at Cheltenham under Richard Johnson. The 9-y-o travelled well through the race before hitting the front just after the second-last flight. He stormed away from his pursuers in the straight to score by 11 lengths from outsider Westender (33-1) with Rhinestone Cowboy (5-2f) third. Johnson said afterwards that the gelding is the best hurdler he has ridden. Ladbrokes make the nine-year-old 6-1 second favourite to defend his crown next year behind 5-1 favourite Back In Front. Rhinestone Cowboy is 10-1.
Azertyuiop (5-4f) blew a top-class field away when winning the Arkle Chase for Ruby Walsh and Paul Nicholls. The unbeaten 6-y-o gave supporters a fright going through the penultimate fence, but when his jockey asked him to quicken, daylight appeared like magic. The performance proved rumours of his well-being, reported by John McCririck before the race, to be ill-founded as he came home 11L clear of Impek (6-1).

2nd Mar 2003:
On an afternoon of Martell Cognac Grand National clues Gunner Welburn put himself bang in contention for the world's greatest steeplechase with victory at Newbury on Saturday. He will want soft ground come the big race.
Shotgun Willy surprised and delighted his supporters with a thrilling success in the £110,000 Red Square Vodka Gold Cup at Haydock on Saturday. The Paul Nicholls-trained gelding was using this prize as a warm-up for his principal target in next month's Martell Cognac Grand National. But despite jumping the last disputing third place and some six lengths off the lead, Ruby Walsh brought the top-weight with a final thrust to catch and pass outsider You're Agoodun, who had looked to have the race in the bag when bursting clear half a mile from home. At the post the 10-1 held the advantage by three-quarters of a length while 40-1 chance You're Agoodun's trainer Martin Pipe also claimed third place with 13-2 favourite Iris Bleu only a short-head further back.

22nd Feb 2003:
Richard Johnson (Gunther McBride) failed narrowly in his bid to record a fourth consecutive victory in the Racing Post Chase at Kempton on Saturday, as 5/1 chance La Landiere took the £100,000 contest. The race was run at a fierce early gallop as Carbury Cross, Maximize, Gunther McBride, Ryalux and Zafarabad all took turns to dispute the lead. Gunther McBride went clear down the far side and looked as if he might be on course to repeat his victory of 12 months ago. But turning for home, the petrol started to empty out on the leader and his fellow joint-favourite La Landiere led at the third-last fence to score pushed out by three lengths . Ryalux (14/1) rallied bravely to finish a further length back in third place.

17th Feb 2003:
Rhinestone Cowboy destroyed his rivals in the Grade 2 Axminster Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton on Saturday afternoon and was backed into hot favourite for the Champion Hurdle. Thisthatandtother and Hors La Loi became engaged in a battle for the lead as Rhinestone Cowboy shifted through the gears and rapidly made headway to lay down the gauntlet. Two from home Hors La Loi faded out of contention and the scene looked set for Ruby Walsh aboard Thisthatandtother to battle it out with Williamson and Rhinestone Cowboy. However, Williamson still had plenty up his sleeve and as they jumped the last Norman was looking round for dangers as he sat motionless on board Jonjo’s charge to eventually win by a comfortable length and three-quarters. Keen Leader extending his winning sequence with an effortless success in the Amlin Reynoldstown Novices' Chase at Ascot on Saturday. The showdown between Keen Leader and Jair du Cochet disappeared at the fourth last fence when the latter's jockey Jacques Ricou was unshipped by a mistake. Keen Leader strolled past Indian Scout and was already well clear when that horse fell heavily at the final fence. Whereareyounow, the only other runner, finished a distance behind Liam Cooper's mount. Keen Leader is now as short as 5-2 for the Royal & SunAlliance Chase with Ladbrokes, who go 10-1 about his prospects for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Azertyuiop did all that his supporters wanted with a wide-margin win over Monte Cristo in the Georgie Newall Novices' Chase. The Iris Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy is the next target for the six-year-old, who was as flawless in his fencing as he landed odds of 1-3.

8th Feb 2003:
Valley Henry (4-1) came back to his best after a poor run last time (soft ground) to win Newbury's Aon Chase (3m) at the chief expense of Chives (3-1)(needed further). There was half a length between them at the last where favourite Marlborough fell when already beaten but Barry Geraghty's mount quickened best. He had two and a half lengths to spare at the line, with Truckers Tavern rallying to take third. Truckers looked in need of softer ground this was the fastest his run on.
Kadarann (5-1), ridden by Joe Tizzard, led home a Paul Nicholls one-two in the Grade 2 Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, beating the favourite Cenkos (5-6). The runner up led until the second last, but could not match Kadarann's pace and went down by eight lengths. Cenkos looks like he badly needed the race after a break and should beat Kadarann at Cheltenham. The disappointment of the race was Martin Pipe's Lady Cricket, who drifted out to 2-1 from 6-4 and didn't like the quickish ground. Kadarann is now 5-1 (from 16-1) with Victor Chandler for the Queen Mother Champion Chase and this success was Tizzard's biggest since he overcame serious spinal injuries incurred last year.
Beef Or Salmon forwarded his Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup claims with an impressive victory in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Leopardstown. The even-money favourite again showed a classic change of gear from the final fence to confirm his course and distance success of late December over Colonel Braxton and Harbour Pilot to delight his Limerick trainer Michael Hourigan. Patiently ridden as usual by Timmy Murphy, the favourite jumped superbly at the third last to track both Colonel Braxton and Harbour Pilot as the three-times previous winner Florida Pearl dropped out of contention and was later found to be suffering from a respiratory infection.

2nd Feb 2003:
Rooster Booster had looked set for a straightforward success as he powered into the lead with Richard Johnson approaching the second last in the Agfa Hurdle. However, he then gave those backers who had sent him off the 2/7 favourite a major scare as he idled on the run-in before knuckling down to his task. Hobbs was unconcerned over the style of the victory, believing that the demands of the Champion Hurdle will suit the 9 year old far more than this on heavy ground.
Rhinestone Cowboy toyed with the opposition in the Grade Two Gerrard Wealth Management Novices' Hurdle at Wetherby as he beat Always Rainbows with a deal more in hand than the official one and three-quarter lengths margin. He is in the Champion Hurdle, but his sights are likely to be aimed a bit lower as Intersky Falcon is the stable's first string. The Supreme Novices Hurdle looks at his mercy.
O'Neill's Keen Leader strengthened his Cheltenham claims with a fine display of jumping in the Grade Two Weatherbys Towton Novices Chase, and winning as he pleased by 24 lengths after taking up the running turning into the straight. I would still be worried about his jumping around Cheltenham.
It was a good day all round for O'Neill as Mini Sensation benefited from a canny ride by top Irish jockey Barry Geraghty to land the Singer & Friedlander National Trial over a gruelling three and a half miles at Uttoxeter. Warren Marston, riding Ardent Scout, tried to steal the race leaving the back straight by kicking five lengths clear, but Geraghty always had matters in hand on Mini Sensation and jumped ahead of his rival at the last to come clear by 12 lengths at the line he Martell Cognac Grand National would now seem an obvious target for the 10-year-old who had won the Coral Eurobet Welsh National on similarly testing ground at Chepstow on his last run but connections will doubtless wait to see what the handicapper does before confirming plans.

27th Jan 2003:
Behrajan ran out a comfortable winner of the Grade 2 Pillar Property Chase at Cheltenham on Saturday afternoon but celebrations were muted after the news came through that earlier faller Bacchanal had been put down. With Cyfor Malta also out of the picture having unseated Tony McCoy, Behrajan had a surprisingly easy time of it and he was never seriously threatened under Richard Johnson. Valley Henry didnt jump around Cheltenham, Foly Pleasant was second and looked as if he didnt stay, , Gingembre back in third just wasnt good enough.
Like A Butterfly beat the amazing Limestone Lad in a scintillating renewal of the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown. As expected, Limestone Lad cut out the running and kicked for home early. Turning for home, Charlie Swan eased Like A Butterfly up to challenge Limestone Lad, and as Swan turned around to look for dangers, it looked as if the mare would win easily. However, Limestone Lad is nothing if not game and, after being headed jumping the last, he put up one last challenge under Geraghty. Unfortunately for his large band of supporters though he just couldn’t muster enough to get back up and went down by a head in a bobbing finish.

20th Jan 2003:
Truckers Tavern ran on strongly to deny long time leader Hussard Collonges victory in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock on Saturday afternoon. Held up in rear by Davy Russell until the field turned into the home straight on their final circuit, Truckers Tavern jumped into the lead at the final fence and then battled past the gallant Hussard Collonges who ran an encouraging race under top weight. It was a good trial for the Gold Cup by the runner up but the winner will be better off waiting a year.
Young Devereaux got the better of Seebald in a thrilling finish to the Tote Exacta Chase at Kempton. Four weeks ago to the day, the pair clashed in a valuable handicap at Ascot, and rather like on that occasion Young Devereaux finished a length clear of his younger rival getting lumps of weight. However, the pair may not have been left to battle out the finish had Fondmort, the 10-3 joint-favourite not taken a crashing fall at the third last when travelling strongly. Thankfully, Fondmort appeared none the worse for ware, however pilot Norman Williamson looked to be in some pain has he was helped back to the weighing room. Dark’N Sharp, the other joint-favourite finished back in third, whilst Fondmort’s stable mate, Demasta, finished back in fourth despite making a bad blunder four from home after cutting out the early running.

27th Dec 2002:
On ground softer than ideal, Best Mate till proved too strong for Marlborough, winning a thrilling duel over the last two fences to land the King George by a length and a half. He was left in front as the pace slowed 5 out. Florida Pearl went in close pursuit but as he dropped away after the third last, the Nicky Henderson pair Marlborough and Bacchanal emerged as the chief threats. Marlborough moved upsides approaching the last but a better jump by Best Mate sealed the victory. Bacchanal took third for the second year with Florida Pearl fourth. This was a fantastic performance by Best Mate on this unfavoured soft ground. He looks better than ever this season and it will take a very good horse to lower his colours come March.

Fondmort put up an exhilarating jumping performance to land the Tripleprint Gold Cup at Cheltenham on Saturday afternoon. Mick Fitzgerald’s mount cleared up any stamina doubts by powering clear of Foly Pleasant and Youlneverwalkalone on the stiff Cheltenham run-in. Fondmort made rapid progress from three out and had hit the front by the second last. A spectacular leap at the final fence saw the 6 year old seal his advantage and he stayed on up the hill for a decisive 6 length success over the gallant Foly Pleasant, who had cut out much of the early running alongside Wave Rock. Irish raider Youlneverwalkalone came from last spot to take third, a further six lengths behind Foly Pleasant, but, he never looked likely to win. Wave Rock, who jumped superbly at the head of affairs, faded out of contention, while Cyfor Malta, who took a walk in the market, had every chance but was anchored by his heavy burden.

07th Dec 2002:
Cenkos upset the party when he ran out a most emphatic winner of Sandown’s Mitsubishi Tingle Creek Trophy on Saturday afternoon. Having been trained by Paul Nicholls with this race in mind since winning over course and distance on his last start back in April, the 8 year old ran on powerfully up the Sandown hill to score by 14 lengths from Edredon Bleu. However, his task was made all the simpler following a bad blunder by Flagship Uberalles at the fifth, pretty much ruling out the chances of the Champion chaser scoring a fourth successive win in this race. Arkle winner Moscow Flyer was hampered in the incident and unseated Barry Geraghty. With two of the big three out of it early doors, Cenkos was left to dispute the lead with Edredon Bleu, whilst Wahiba Sands was the only other one left with a realistic chance, sitting a couple of lengths off the pace. At the final Railway Fence, Ruby Walsh began to turn up the pressure aboard Cenkos, and a huge leap soon saw him open up a useful advantage over the rousted along Edredon Bleu. Jumping the Pond Fence, Cenkos pulled even further away. Following his win, Cenkos was quoted at a best price of 6-1 to follow up in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Festival in March.

24th Nov 2002:
Be My Royal landed a fantastic renewal of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday afternoon. Seven runners were in with a chance at the last in a cracking race. Jumping the last Be My Royal found the best turn of foot to claim a famous victory. Gingembre, giving plenty of weight to his rival, was just run out of it close home, while another Irish challenger, Harbour Pilot, took third but would surely have won but for walking straight through the final fence. Whitenzo ran a fine race in fourth but blew his chance with one serious error, while Hussard Collonges, Gunther McBride, Carbury Cross and Marlborough also deserve mentions. Plenty of winners will come from this top class race.

17th Nov 2002:
Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Best Mate returned to action in a winning vein after making all the running in the McCallum Corporate Consulting Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon. The 7 year old was hunted up throughout by Geos and French raider Douze Douze with the latter far from fluent at his obstacles. In comparison, Best Mate jumped accurately throughout and gained an advanatge on his two rivals through the air. They were still both on the premises as they turned for home and it was at the second last where the favourite made his only real error. He got in too close to the obstacle but he and Jim Culloty got over to the other side and were soon back on an even keel. It did give Douze Douze a slight chance on the run to the last but he was erratic while Best Mate winged it and proceeded to draw clear to score in hugely satisfying style by eight lengths. He had to make his own running which didnt help him but this race has put him spot on for Boxing Day. The 2/1 on offer for the King George has now gone and he trades at around 6/4.

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