Forsaking the Royal meeting this term for the delights of Tuscany. However will be keeping an eye on matters from afar and in particular on the week's nap, Born to Sea in the St. James Palace Stakes. Very well bred with astute connections (Oxx and Murtagh), he appeared to finally to get the hang of things, when running on well in the Irish 2,000 and is the value bet in an open renewal.
enjoy.....
Showing posts with label Royal Ascot. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Royal Ascot. Show all posts
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Saturday, October 15, 2011
New Departure?
The more things change, the more they stay the same!! Good card, decent prize, one true equine star, top track! Today's much vaunted new meeting at Ascot should herald an upsurge in Flat racing's fortunes and profile. But unsurprisingly the ill timed and cack-handed introduction of the new whip regulations with it's ensuing media coverage has undone all the good work. Cock-up or conspiracy?
Nevertheless we have an interesting card and the return of Frankel to ponder. Henry Cecil's superstar on all known evidence should prevail, but at 3s on looks too short against a decent field, including 3 Group 1 winners.
Ballydoyle's Australian import So You Think has not really lived up to the hype. Have seen him up close in the paddock and he looks a magnificent specimen. However I am not sure his powerful physique is suited to European racing where a ready turn of foot is vital at the top level. He battled in great style at Sandown, ran on well at Longchamp, but failed to find an extra here at the Royal Meeting. Expect him to run well again this afternoon in the relocated Champion Stakes, but reckon he is vulnerable to a late finisher. Obvious candidates include Cirrus Des Aigles and Dubai Prince but reckon the latter's stablemate Casamento (Group 1 winner) under the boy wonder (Mikael Barzalona) has a chance and looks under priced at 33/1.
The card also sees a cracking sprint. The quickish ground looks as if it will undermine the leading contenders and along with Ascot's penchant for sprint surprises, it might well pay to look for an outsider. Both Dafeef and Night Carnation have nice bits of form, are relatively unexposed and at current odds fit the bill.
enjoy
Nevertheless we have an interesting card and the return of Frankel to ponder. Henry Cecil's superstar on all known evidence should prevail, but at 3s on looks too short against a decent field, including 3 Group 1 winners.
Ballydoyle's Australian import So You Think has not really lived up to the hype. Have seen him up close in the paddock and he looks a magnificent specimen. However I am not sure his powerful physique is suited to European racing where a ready turn of foot is vital at the top level. He battled in great style at Sandown, ran on well at Longchamp, but failed to find an extra here at the Royal Meeting. Expect him to run well again this afternoon in the relocated Champion Stakes, but reckon he is vulnerable to a late finisher. Obvious candidates include Cirrus Des Aigles and Dubai Prince but reckon the latter's stablemate Casamento (Group 1 winner) under the boy wonder (Mikael Barzalona) has a chance and looks under priced at 33/1.
The card also sees a cracking sprint. The quickish ground looks as if it will undermine the leading contenders and along with Ascot's penchant for sprint surprises, it might well pay to look for an outsider. Both Dafeef and Night Carnation have nice bits of form, are relatively unexposed and at current odds fit the bill.
enjoy
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Sunday Best
Despite interesting cards today at Newmarket and Haydock, the weekend's best action takes place tomorrow at Deauville and the Curragh. Two scintillating Group 1s dominate the picture. First up is the Maurice de Gheest where July Cup winner, Dream Ahead is challenged by Golden Jubilee winner, Society Rock, Sprint stalwarts Genki, Markab, Marchand D'Or and the very interesting back in trip, Zoffany. Value looks likely in a hot field but very hard to oppose Dream Ahead and expect him to land the spoils (impressive last time and course winner-Prix Morny).
The first Group 1 of the season for two year olds, the Phoenix Stakes is run at the Curragh. Power, from Ballydoyle should improve for his win at Royal Ascot, but in an equally competitive contest, it is difficult to ignore the chances of English challengers, Frederick Engels, Lilbourne Lad and Gatepost, with Jim Bolger's Parish Hall worth a close look if the rain desists. There is also an intriguing two year fillies race on the card, where Maybe (another impressive Ascot victor) takes on a progressive field including Remember Alexander, who should give us a clue to Parish Hall's credentials. Value options abound but expect favourites to prevail (Dream Ahead, Power, Maybe).
Saturday's action pales somewhat, but the Sweet Solera is always informative. Godolphin's Discourse looks the likely winner, but Sir Mark Prescott usually does not waste his time at this level and Kinetica may prove to be a better bet. Meanwhile at Haydock, it appears Hot Prospect (won this day last year) has his ideal conditions in the Rose of Lancaster stakes.
good luck....
The first Group 1 of the season for two year olds, the Phoenix Stakes is run at the Curragh. Power, from Ballydoyle should improve for his win at Royal Ascot, but in an equally competitive contest, it is difficult to ignore the chances of English challengers, Frederick Engels, Lilbourne Lad and Gatepost, with Jim Bolger's Parish Hall worth a close look if the rain desists. There is also an intriguing two year fillies race on the card, where Maybe (another impressive Ascot victor) takes on a progressive field including Remember Alexander, who should give us a clue to Parish Hall's credentials. Value options abound but expect favourites to prevail (Dream Ahead, Power, Maybe).
Saturday's action pales somewhat, but the Sweet Solera is always informative. Godolphin's Discourse looks the likely winner, but Sir Mark Prescott usually does not waste his time at this level and Kinetica may prove to be a better bet. Meanwhile at Haydock, it appears Hot Prospect (won this day last year) has his ideal conditions in the Rose of Lancaster stakes.
good luck....
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Cups Overflowing!!
On a hectic day going to focus on three of summer racing's traditional highlights. First up is the July Cup, feature of the now rescheduled July Meeting at Newmarket. This year's running looks slightly below par, but interested to see Dream Ahead (impressive Middle Park winner) revert back to a shorter trip. He ran well enough at Ascot and the speed he showed at Deauville and on the Rowley Mile suggests he could take all the beating if the going retains some cut. Also will be monitoring Bated Breadth and expect another solid performance on his way to Group 1 glory later in the season. He should thereabouts this afternoon but track and going not in his favour.
Supporting the big sprint is the long established Bunbury Cup over 7 furlongs. It's a rather tight handicap this year with 12 pounds separating the twenty runners. As usual, it's possible to give every one a chance but Nasri looks each way value assuming stable is in better form. Course winner Fireback (curious jockey booking) is also worth a look after his stable's prosperous afternoon last Saturday.
Up the A1 at York is the John Smith's Cup (aka Magnet Cup) which is equally competitive. A couple of relatively unexposed and progressive four year olds head the market and of these, like Green Destiny best. He did not seem to enjoy Ascot (not the first horse), but his Newmarket handicap win early in the season suggested he would have every chance on the Knavesmire. It's worth bearing in mind that, trainer William Haggas was quoted on RUK saying this was his main target before Royal Ascot.
good luck and enjoy.....
Supporting the big sprint is the long established Bunbury Cup over 7 furlongs. It's a rather tight handicap this year with 12 pounds separating the twenty runners. As usual, it's possible to give every one a chance but Nasri looks each way value assuming stable is in better form. Course winner Fireback (curious jockey booking) is also worth a look after his stable's prosperous afternoon last Saturday.
Up the A1 at York is the John Smith's Cup (aka Magnet Cup) which is equally competitive. A couple of relatively unexposed and progressive four year olds head the market and of these, like Green Destiny best. He did not seem to enjoy Ascot (not the first horse), but his Newmarket handicap win early in the season suggested he would have every chance on the Knavesmire. It's worth bearing in mind that, trainer William Haggas was quoted on RUK saying this was his main target before Royal Ascot.
good luck and enjoy.....
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Showdown @ Sandown
A select field for the Coral Eclipse at Sandown today with two middle distance titans, So You Think and Workforce facing off for the first time this season. It is reasonable to assume that Aidan O'Brien will have the former Aussie superstar in peak condition in a bid to recoup his reputation and losses suffered at Royal Ascot. The trip should suit, but one wonders how he will handle the track's undulations and the stiff uphill finish. Workforce made a winning seasonal return here in fine style, but may not be at his best over ten furlongs. An intriguing match up and very difficult to call, but top jockey, Ryan Moore, could be difference and at the prices, last year's Derby and Arc victor gets a tentative vote. The excellent filly, Snow Fairy adds to the race, but her long absence suggests she will be better next time.
Whilst the Eclipse dominates the day, there are a number of other interesting and competitive contests on the supporting card and at Haydock. Nothing in particular jumps out, but a close eye will be kept on Astrophysical Jet (old friend), Soorah (twice an eyecatcher), Seelo (unexposed?), Sirvino (back to form?) and Secret Witness (value?)
good luck and enjoy....
Whilst the Eclipse dominates the day, there are a number of other interesting and competitive contests on the supporting card and at Haydock. Nothing in particular jumps out, but a close eye will be kept on Astrophysical Jet (old friend), Soorah (twice an eyecatcher), Seelo (unexposed?), Sirvino (back to form?) and Secret Witness (value?)
good luck and enjoy....
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Bewitched or Bereft?
Today sees the culmination of an enthralling Royal Ascot. The Golden Jubilee (Group 1) is the highlight and all seemingly has fallen into place for Irish filly, Bewitched. The lack of a true top class sprinter, the soft going, her course and distance win last term, her recent good win over Zoffany and probably most pertinently, her jockey (Group 1 Johnny) signal a serious chance. While the value has diminished somewhat, I am quite happy to play at current odds (5/1). Up against her are a few decent sorts including notebook member, Bated Breadth. Highly progressive, today's move up in grade should be a stepping stone to success at this level later in the season. As his only blips have been with soft underfoot conditions, he could well be available at a decent price making a saver worthwhile (10s upwards).
The supporting card includes the ever riveting king of sprint handicaps, the Wokingham. Always like to have a go and shortlist this time comprises, Victoire de Lyphar (master trainer and favourites chance), Waffle (sprinter to follow), Nasri (Dandy again) and one from the other side, Gramercy (despite form, should handle going being by Whipper).
John Gosden had a great day yesterday and runs his emerging talented handicapper, Taqleed. Mr Gosden bravely pulled him from the Lincoln, when favourite due to the going and his patience may be rewarded this afternoon. It's his first time over this distance, but his breeding suggests he will stay (dam won Ribblesdale).
Finally, although not punting material due to prohibitive odds, Ballydoyle's Await the Dawn merits close scrutiny - will land a prize this summer!!!
Best of luck and many thanks to those who took the time to look in during the week!!
cheers....
The supporting card includes the ever riveting king of sprint handicaps, the Wokingham. Always like to have a go and shortlist this time comprises, Victoire de Lyphar (master trainer and favourites chance), Waffle (sprinter to follow), Nasri (Dandy again) and one from the other side, Gramercy (despite form, should handle going being by Whipper).
John Gosden had a great day yesterday and runs his emerging talented handicapper, Taqleed. Mr Gosden bravely pulled him from the Lincoln, when favourite due to the going and his patience may be rewarded this afternoon. It's his first time over this distance, but his breeding suggests he will stay (dam won Ribblesdale).
Finally, although not punting material due to prohibitive odds, Ballydoyle's Await the Dawn merits close scrutiny - will land a prize this summer!!!
Best of luck and many thanks to those who took the time to look in during the week!!
cheers....
Friday, June 17, 2011
Rain stops Play???
Since her gallant place showing in the 1,000 Guineas, Maqaasid has been this corner's nap for Royal Ascot 2011. This is premised on the fact that she would enjoy good (quick) going, her trainer's (John Gosden) penchant for gradual improvement and the Newmarket run demonstrating she would just about stay the mile. The Royal meeting is notable for repeat winners (like Cheltenham!!) and her winning run in last year's Queen Mary suggests she is the most talented filly in the race, as all three Guineas winners are absent.
Unfortunately, the one possible fly in the ointment has materialised; Rain. She did not relish it in the Cheveley Park and my enthusiasm is somewhat tempered after seeing how the track rode yesterday (soft side of good). She will probably cope with good, but any sign of "soft" in the official going report probably means we will have to wait for another day (Falmouth?). Hopefully the sun will blast and we will get to have a go!! If not, will make do with a saver at appropriate odds (just in case..).
However, the rain should benefit another of this corner's favoured fillies, Theyskens Theory. She won on soft last season and returned in good style recently. She is probably just short of top class, but that may be good enough this afternoon.
What to do?, best to wait until near the off and splitting stakes..!!!
good luck...
Unfortunately, the one possible fly in the ointment has materialised; Rain. She did not relish it in the Cheveley Park and my enthusiasm is somewhat tempered after seeing how the track rode yesterday (soft side of good). She will probably cope with good, but any sign of "soft" in the official going report probably means we will have to wait for another day (Falmouth?). Hopefully the sun will blast and we will get to have a go!! If not, will make do with a saver at appropriate odds (just in case..).
However, the rain should benefit another of this corner's favoured fillies, Theyskens Theory. She won on soft last season and returned in good style recently. She is probably just short of top class, but that may be good enough this afternoon.
What to do?, best to wait until near the off and splitting stakes..!!!
good luck...
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
You would think so!!
Day 2 at Royal Ascot sees Australian superstar So You Think put his reputation on the line in the Prince of Wales's Stakes. Now domiciled at Ballydoyle, apparently to the chagrin of our antipodean cousins, who reckon he is unbeatable and too good for the northern hemisphere. I had the pleasure of seeing him in the flesh, winning his prep at the Curragh recently (travelled powerfully/displayed necessary turn of foot) and expect the 5 year old to prevail and further enhance his paddock credentials.
The main betting race is the Royal Hunt Cup, which is always competitive, exciting and difficult to call. Two against the field, with an eye to the future are, Soorah (tad unlucky last time) and off bottom weight, Bronze Prince (untapped potential).
Two other progressive sorts worth keeping an eye on, are Western Aristocrat who runs in a trappy looking Jersey Stakes and short priced favourite, Shumoos (cf. Frederick Engels), in the Queen Mary.
good luck...
The main betting race is the Royal Hunt Cup, which is always competitive, exciting and difficult to call. Two against the field, with an eye to the future are, Soorah (tad unlucky last time) and off bottom weight, Bronze Prince (untapped potential).
Two other progressive sorts worth keeping an eye on, are Western Aristocrat who runs in a trappy looking Jersey Stakes and short priced favourite, Shumoos (cf. Frederick Engels), in the Queen Mary.
good luck...
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Super Milers
Royal Ascot starts powerfully today with the clash in the Queen Anne Stakes (Gr.1) of the super milers, Goldikova and Canford Cliffs. While one ought to be mindful of the conditions due to the recent rain, Ascot generally handles precipitation well and an exciting clash is expected. Goldikova has a superb record but the vote goes to Canford on the basis of his younger legs.
Day One's undoubted attraction is 2,000 Guineas winner, Frankel, in the St James Palace Stakes (Gr.1). Can he improve on that mind blowing run? One expects so, as he handled the track well when winning the Royal Lodge last season. There a few interesting other runners, but he can't be seriously opposed.
The third Group 1 of the afternoon is the Kings Stand over 5f. The international dimension makes it very difficult to assess but one of this corner's favourites, Astrophysical Jet, should have a squeak and if there is further rainfall, long shot Arctic might be worth a small interest.
The day rounds off with a pair of very competitive 2 year old contests. The Hannon and O'Brien yards are usually to the fore in this sphere, but Jeremy Noseda has a nice sort in Roman Soldier (Coventry). The Windsor Castle is best watched.
enjoy and good luck...
Day One's undoubted attraction is 2,000 Guineas winner, Frankel, in the St James Palace Stakes (Gr.1). Can he improve on that mind blowing run? One expects so, as he handled the track well when winning the Royal Lodge last season. There a few interesting other runners, but he can't be seriously opposed.
The third Group 1 of the afternoon is the Kings Stand over 5f. The international dimension makes it very difficult to assess but one of this corner's favourites, Astrophysical Jet, should have a squeak and if there is further rainfall, long shot Arctic might be worth a small interest.
The day rounds off with a pair of very competitive 2 year old contests. The Hannon and O'Brien yards are usually to the fore in this sphere, but Jeremy Noseda has a nice sort in Roman Soldier (Coventry). The Windsor Castle is best watched.
enjoy and good luck...
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Aspiring Sprinters
Majestic Myles obliged for us two weeks ago and attempts to back up the victory today in a very competitive 3 year old sprint at York. He has every chance again, but I suspect he may find one better handicapped. Swiss Dream fits that bill and may be the one who will come out on top this afternoon. Another Fahey inmate, Jamesway (unlucky in running at Epsom last week), is also worth considering off a low weight and at longer odds.
Night Carnation (impressive so far) is likely to go off favourite in the Scurry Stakes at Sandown but Henry Candy's, Dinkum Diamond, looks over priced and should give her plenty to think about.
On a rather quietish weekend (Royal Ascot looming), the main Group One action takes place across the pond in New York. Despite his poor draw, Aidan O'Brien's Masterofthehounds must have a squeak in an open looking Belmont Stakes.
enjoy and roll on Tuesday....
Night Carnation (impressive so far) is likely to go off favourite in the Scurry Stakes at Sandown but Henry Candy's, Dinkum Diamond, looks over priced and should give her plenty to think about.
On a rather quietish weekend (Royal Ascot looming), the main Group One action takes place across the pond in New York. Despite his poor draw, Aidan O'Brien's Masterofthehounds must have a squeak in an open looking Belmont Stakes.
enjoy and roll on Tuesday....
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Whither Pathfork for the Futurity?
The racing brain is rather weary after an excellent and engrossing week's racing on the Knavesmire and finding it difficult to spot a bet for today. Therefore one is focusing on the 2 year old contests at the Curragh and Sandown with a view to the autumn. Firstly, Meow (regally bred) should enhance her reputation at the Curragh over 5f. She ran well at Royal Ascot and meets a lesser grade today. Her dam Airwave was a particular favourite of this corner and indeed she may go on to emulate her win in the Cheveley Park. The Futurity Stakes for colts has been won in the recent past by two of Jim Bolger's stars, Teofilio and New Approach. The highly regarded Glor na Mara represents the stable this afternoon but so far has not looked as good as that pair. His last run entitles him to go off favourite but like many, I was impressed with Pathfork and favour him to progress further.
Over at Sandown, the always informative Solario Stakes has an interesting hue. Native Khan leads the market, but Titus Mills battled well last day and might be the sort to enjoy the climb to the winning post. Stentorian (beaten by Zoffany and King Torus on last two runs) can give us a decent yardstick.
A watching multiple will whet the punting thirst; Meow, Pathfork, Titus Mills..
good luck....
Over at Sandown, the always informative Solario Stakes has an interesting hue. Native Khan leads the market, but Titus Mills battled well last day and might be the sort to enjoy the climb to the winning post. Stentorian (beaten by Zoffany and King Torus on last two runs) can give us a decent yardstick.
A watching multiple will whet the punting thirst; Meow, Pathfork, Titus Mills..
good luck....
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Twice Over possible value in an intriguing International Stakes!
The International Stakes is the feature of Day 1 of the Ebor Meeting at York. The four main challengers all have solid claims but Twice Over currently available in places at 5/1, looks the value bet. He seems sure to be placed and with 9 runners could be a tempting free each way wager. However it is a tight field with Rip Van Winkle heading the market. While long being a fan, I feel Rip's best performances have come on undulating tracks (Sandown, Goodwood and Epsom) and he may not prosper on York's straight. Byword looks to be a similar standard to Twice Over (based on Royal Ascot form) but is nearly half the price. Dick Turpin is the season's most admirable performer but his breeding suggests he won't stay. Cavalryman looks best of outsiders but he will need to improve markedly on recent runs. In a race definitely worth watching, if not playing in, a tentative vote goes to the Henry Cecil charge.
The Voltigeur looks to be between the big 2 (Ballydoyle + Godolphin) and expect Rewidling to prevail whilst establishing St. Leger pecking order.
enjoy.....
The Voltigeur looks to be between the big 2 (Ballydoyle + Godolphin) and expect Rewidling to prevail whilst establishing St. Leger pecking order.
enjoy.....
Saturday, July 10, 2010
John Smiths Cup York 2010
Another top summer handicap today at York, the John Smith' s Cup (Magnet Cup). Imposing's gallant run at Ascot entitles him to be favourite but he does not look to have the necesssary turn of foot to triumph here. The obvious choice is the eyecatcher of all eyecatchers, Wigmore Hall, whose surging late charge at Ascot suggests he has the requirements to win a race of this nature. Allied to his superb seasonal debut on the Rowley mile, his handy weight and claiming jockey, he must have every chance. However this is evident to everyone, thus explaining his current low odds. I think it is 4/1 to get luck in running here, but have to admit that he is the most likely winner. Looking for value is difficult but it would be unwise to rule the chances of Sweet Lightning, Royal Destination and Kings Gambit, one of whom may go off at a value price.
Very much enjoyed the excellent fare at Newmarket's July meeting and thought Johnny Murtagh was brave in taking Starbangledbanner to the rail so early. I am sure the punters appreciated his nerve, but was a bit surprised to see him get a six day ban from the stewards. Very harsh for a race winning manoeuvre, particularly in a high profile Group 1.
good luck....
Very much enjoyed the excellent fare at Newmarket's July meeting and thought Johnny Murtagh was brave in taking Starbangledbanner to the rail so early. I am sure the punters appreciated his nerve, but was a bit surprised to see him get a six day ban from the stewards. Very harsh for a race winning manoeuvre, particularly in a high profile Group 1.
good luck....
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Ascot Sprints
Happy to be back in action today after gently easing myself back into racing matters whilst keeping an eye on the thrilling action from Ascot during the week. Canford Cliffs and Goldikova were the obvious highlights with plenty of the remaining races requiring further scrutiny. The track seems to be riding fairer this year and appears to be finally settling down. Nevertheless high draws have been dominating races run on the straight track, although one would not necessarily be put off a low draw on the last day.
This afternoon sees two of my favourite races and looking forward to reacquainting myself with Couch, TV and Laptop. First up is the Golden Jubliee which is remarkably open for a Group 1 contest. I pencilled in Showcasing for this in May (good run at York) and despite ground not being absolutely suitable, expect a big run. As ever, it's always wise to have an outsider and one could worse with the unexposed but capable Serious Attitude. The Haggas pair, High Standing and Triple Aspect also look interesting.
The Wokingham is ever competitive and hard to call. Genki put in an eyecatching run last time and has a solid chance from a favourable berth. However enthusiasm is somewhat tempered by the going. Others in the shortlist include, Palace Moon and Striking Spirit.
Finally, Harbinger looks a good thing in the Hardwicke but have a sneaking regard for South Easter who might be an interesting each way punt.
best of luck and good to be back in harness.......
This afternoon sees two of my favourite races and looking forward to reacquainting myself with Couch, TV and Laptop. First up is the Golden Jubliee which is remarkably open for a Group 1 contest. I pencilled in Showcasing for this in May (good run at York) and despite ground not being absolutely suitable, expect a big run. As ever, it's always wise to have an outsider and one could worse with the unexposed but capable Serious Attitude. The Haggas pair, High Standing and Triple Aspect also look interesting.
The Wokingham is ever competitive and hard to call. Genki put in an eyecatching run last time and has a solid chance from a favourable berth. However enthusiasm is somewhat tempered by the going. Others in the shortlist include, Palace Moon and Striking Spirit.
Finally, Harbinger looks a good thing in the Hardwicke but have a sneaking regard for South Easter who might be an interesting each way punt.
best of luck and good to be back in harness.......
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Q.E. II
A select band take part in the Q.E. II at Ascot. Rip Van Winkle is the best horse and if near full fitness should win. The race itself marks Godolphin's return to the limelight, once again challenging Coolmore. However, expect Rip to thwart both Delegator & Aqlaam and further enhance his bid for glory at Santa Anita. The other group 1 looks much more open with no stand out runner. I was impressed with You'll be Mine at Leopardstown but this is much tougher. Long Lashes ran no race in the heavy going at the Curragh and has to be given another chance. However as it not really a betting event, going to watch and see if Sent From Heaven can continue her improvement. She won last time but not sure she is group 1 standard.
The main betting medium is the 7 furlong handicap which as usual, is fiercely competitive. Going to eschew a few old friends this time and tentatively propose Proclaim, as a sporting bet. Very consistent, running off lowest mark since spring, advantageously drawn and doubtlessly fit from the Johnston yard, he looks nicely priced on Betfair.
enjoy.....
The main betting medium is the 7 furlong handicap which as usual, is fiercely competitive. Going to eschew a few old friends this time and tentatively propose Proclaim, as a sporting bet. Very consistent, running off lowest mark since spring, advantageously drawn and doubtlessly fit from the Johnston yard, he looks nicely priced on Betfair.
enjoy.....
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Royal Ascot 09 Review
A very enjoyable meet this year despite lack of punting success until Bronze Cannon's fine victory in the Hardwicke today. A small wager at 14's in running atoned somewhat for some unlucky and disappointing selections during the week. However thoroughly enjoyed the high quality and competitive fare on show. No doubt the fine weather helped keep the going in good condition. The track this year definitely rode a lot better and fairer and looks to be settling down.
Top performers were Mastercraftsman, Scenic Blast, Canford Cliffs and Ghanaati (who hopefully will take on the colts later in the season). Plaudits go to Aidan O'Brien and Johnny Murtagh for their handling of Yeats who caught all the headlines. A laudable achievement but felt media hype was a little contrived (staying races are hardly cutting edge), suggestive of a sport desperate for attention.
Horses who did not win but showed something for future include Axiom, Tartan Bearer, Desert Creek, Lillie Langtry, and last but not least Rainbow View.
Off on hols now so next post on Eclipse Day.
Thanks for reading .......und bis dann...
Top performers were Mastercraftsman, Scenic Blast, Canford Cliffs and Ghanaati (who hopefully will take on the colts later in the season). Plaudits go to Aidan O'Brien and Johnny Murtagh for their handling of Yeats who caught all the headlines. A laudable achievement but felt media hype was a little contrived (staying races are hardly cutting edge), suggestive of a sport desperate for attention.
Horses who did not win but showed something for future include Axiom, Tartan Bearer, Desert Creek, Lillie Langtry, and last but not least Rainbow View.
Off on hols now so next post on Eclipse Day.
Thanks for reading .......und bis dann...
Royal Ascot Day 5
The Golden Jubilee is the highlight of Day 5 but very diffcult to fathom due to the prescence of the colonial pair at the head of the market. Sacred Kingdom looks the pick of these on all known form but there appears to be a question mark over his preparation and perhaps he is travelling to garner points for the Global Sprint challenge. In keeping with the international feel, Luca Cumani runs a greek horse (no gift at 7/1) and Cannonball runs for California. All in all, hard to truly assess the race so going to stick with I know and put Bushranger up as a likely outsider. Twice a Group 1 winner as a 2yo , will enjoy going and shaped last time as if he trained on.
The Wokingham as ever is ultra competitive. The market leaders have solid chances but would like to nominate 2 outsiders from either flank for consideration, Pearly Wey (solid sprinter, who is drawn well and suspect not just turning up to give stablemate a lead), and Striking Spirit (relatively unexposed and trained by a master in this sphere).
The rest of the card looks less inspiring but nevertheless enjoyable. Tentative nods for Shakespearean, Bronze Cannon, the rather intriguing pairing of Ryan Moore and Tony Martin with Siberian Tiger and finally Amerigo.
Enjoy.........
The Wokingham as ever is ultra competitive. The market leaders have solid chances but would like to nominate 2 outsiders from either flank for consideration, Pearly Wey (solid sprinter, who is drawn well and suspect not just turning up to give stablemate a lead), and Striking Spirit (relatively unexposed and trained by a master in this sphere).
The rest of the card looks less inspiring but nevertheless enjoyable. Tentative nods for Shakespearean, Bronze Cannon, the rather intriguing pairing of Ryan Moore and Tony Martin with Siberian Tiger and finally Amerigo.
Enjoy.........
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Royal Ascot Day 4
The Coronation Stakes shapes up to be the race of the meeting with the 3 guineas winners lining up along with last year's top 2yo and 2 unexposed fillies from Ireland and France. It should be a fascinating race and it is very difficult to knock chances of leading contenders. However at the moment, Again looks fair value on Betfair @ 9s, probably due to concern about her liking for quick going. A valid consideration but did see her win a competitive maiden at the Curragh on lightning fast ground last summer.
South Easter was pulled out of the Derby at the last minute but previously had showed plenty of potential. This is more his level and he should be the one to beat. Lillie Langtry comes with high hopes but this looks like a race to be avoided. Also like Clowance House but have no idea as to whether he will stay or not (Last run suggested possibilities).
Finally in the 7f handicap, Golden Desert (track specialist?) might be worth a second look!!
best of luck...
South Easter was pulled out of the Derby at the last minute but previously had showed plenty of potential. This is more his level and he should be the one to beat. Lillie Langtry comes with high hopes but this looks like a race to be avoided. Also like Clowance House but have no idea as to whether he will stay or not (Last run suggested possibilities).
Finally in the 7f handicap, Golden Desert (track specialist?) might be worth a second look!!
best of luck...
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Royal Ascot Day 3
A very competitive card for Day 3 with winners difficult to find despite all 6 market leaders clearly having chances. Freemantle very impressive in the Dante is the obvious banker but his illustrious stablemate, Yeats could be turned over by Patkai in the Gold Cup. Michael Stoute who has had little luck so far, runs one of his progressive horses, Desert Creek in a hot Britannia. His chance has been apparently scuppered by the draw, however he could be good enough to overcome this and land pot at a bigger price than anticipated. Eastern Empire interesting outside bet!!
Monsieur Chevalier gets the chance to defy a Californian hat trick and would be surprised if he does not win. The Ribblesdale looks too tight to call and in the last race, it is always worth noting a John Oxx foray.
good luck....
Monsieur Chevalier gets the chance to defy a Californian hat trick and would be surprised if he does not win. The Ribblesdale looks too tight to call and in the last race, it is always worth noting a John Oxx foray.
good luck....
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Royal Ascot Day 2
One of my favourite racing puzzles of the year is the Hunt Cup. However, many stabs over the years have proved fruitless but nevertheless, always like to have a go. This year's ante post fancy Axiom comes in good form but would benefit from a drop of rain as the track appeared to favour speed on day 1. Also like Mia's Boy with Ryan Moore aboard and tentatively suggest Bencoolen as a left field bet.
Top race of the day is the Prince of Wales Stakes where Tartan Bearer puts his credentials on the line. A strong french challenge could thwart him though and interesting to see if Monsieur Rouget can sustain his hot streak across the channel. A race for watching!!
Fillies handicaps are normally worth avoiding but have had Rose Diamond in my notebook since last summer and she should run a good race at rewarding odds.
best of luck.....
Top race of the day is the Prince of Wales Stakes where Tartan Bearer puts his credentials on the line. A strong french challenge could thwart him though and interesting to see if Monsieur Rouget can sustain his hot streak across the channel. A race for watching!!
Fillies handicaps are normally worth avoiding but have had Rose Diamond in my notebook since last summer and she should run a good race at rewarding odds.
best of luck.....
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