All out to win

2012-02-23T11:21:00.002Z

14:10 Southwell Bonnie Prince Blue £50 e/w 16/1

Backing him for the reasons I explained recently, he has gone on to lose again since but I believe connections are persevering and it will be especially interesting if money arrives this afternoon. I believe he could prove to be well handicapped today.

16:10 Southwell Mawaakef £200 e/w 10/1

Smart sort Colour Guard from the Johnston yard makes his handicap debut here today and may prove to be well in off his current mark. Has only won a weak maiden and I wasn’t overly impressed with speed he showed that day also goes from less than ideal draw and is upped in trip so I can see connections exercising possible caution with this one today and at the current price he looks to have been over hyped. Instead I’d prefer to side with Mawaakef, a smart performer at 2 years old over in Ireland put in some good performances up to and including group level. Ran in some decent handicaps last summer all of which were on ground that was too quick for him. Certainly looks to appreciate some give in the surface and may be suited to the fibresand he meets for the first time here today. Ran well on reappearance at Lingfield last September under a typical Joe Fanning ride, travelled well for much of the race eventually unable to see out the trip of 10f to finish 4th against some in form horses. Was unable to get his favoured position out in front from widest draw again over 10f at Lingfield last time out, again travelled well that day but found traffic problems on the run in preventing him from producing his run Fallon not going hard on him thereafter finishing up in 12th.. Jockey Freddie Tylicki is 4 from 18 rides with the trainer and is well versed round here and should be able to angle the selection from his draw out front early and see them off from the front the stiff mile very much suited. Locally trained Follow the flag may pose the biggest danger as he goes well round here and is the only serious hold up performer in the race, however I think he’s lost a couple of yards of pace these days and may find the rest(who I expect to set a decent gallop throughout) hard to peg back today. The rest look to have a bit to find and I’ll take the selection to at least make the frame comfortably today.

17:10 Southwell Brown Pete £200 win 28/1

A slow to mature type, looks a miler – 10f horse Southwell’s stiff mile will be in his favour. His mark has continued to tumble and races off a career low mark of 58 for the first time in 0 – 60 company here today. Continued to disappoint since winning a decent maiden over in Ireland. Joined Richard Guests yard in December and I can forgive him his first run for the yard over a trip that probably stretched him too much. Finished 3rd in a claimer over 1 mile at Kempton after that, the form from that race was better then the result suggests as he travelled up for much of the race with eventual winner Encore un Fois, a horse I still believe is open to plenty of improvement. His last run possibly came too soon having badly missed the break and having to make up considerable ground early on he didn’t travel too badly for much of the race and faded in the final furlong, has had a break since and it will not take a great deal for him to get in front of this field which is full of ungenuine horses from trainers who are really just there for a day out.

2012-01-30T21:19:00.004Z

Bank = £755

15:10 Taunton Wings of Smoke £300 e/w 20/1

Impressive looking sort who should make up into a decent chaser in his time. Was impressed with the way he raced last April at Aintree over 2m4f won with plenty in hand that day. Plenty will try to make the running in this which will benefit the selection who should sit comfortably in this bigger field. I think the race looked as though it came too soon for him on his penultimate outing and the heavy ground didn’t help last time out on reappearance over 2m4 at Ffos las, nevertheless he travelled well for much of the race and the step back in trip will benefit tomorrow, will surely come on for that run and Trainer Tim Vaughn looks to be revving up for his usual February successes, he has a 23% s/r with Richard Johnson who also has a 20% s/r round Taunton, Jockey knows this one well and everything looks set for a big run on a track which I think suits this one's running style.

16:30 Southwell Bonnie Prince Blue £100 win 18/1

At home on the fibresand this veteran is now racing of a career low mark of 56, Was putting in decent performances round here this time last year off marks in the high 70’s against course specialists such as Punching and Ingleby Arch. Since switched yards twice and is yet to make an impact for his latest. Looked as though he was spared the race last time out round here after starting slowly from the widest draw, that was after a long 2011 campaign and he has since been given what was probably a much needed rest. Wouldn’t take his best to get involved with this field and if fit looks a good opportunity for small yard to get amongst the winners tomorrow.

2012-01-28T12:02:00.004Z

Bank = £1505

Short of time today, but just a quick note to say i've backed the following this morning. I will bring this blog fully up to date after the weekend.

1:30 Cheltenham Royale's Charter £200 win 14/1

Race comment:jumped slowly 1st, mid-division, headway and in touch when fell 4 out ## Fell sp 14/1

14:05 Cheltenham Tartak £100 e/w 16/1

Race comment:chased winner to 6th, outpaced 11th, soon behind ## Last sp 22/1

14:20 Doncaster Artic Wings £200 win 9/1

Race comment: held up in rear, headway 3 out, chasing leaders when blundered next, weakened before last ## 4th sp 9/2

14:50 Doncaster Wayward Prince £150 win 9/1

Race comment:held up well in rear, some headway 4 out, never dangerous ## 7th sp 11/2

Good luck to everyone who's playing on what should be a cracking day's racing,

Roy

Bank = £755

2012-01-25T10:15:00.007Z

Bank = £1725

14:00 Hereford Dannancey’s hill £100 e/w 9/1

All eyes will be on Destroyer Deployed with improvement expected after his defeat to the useful all the aces lto, I thought he was flattered by that performance and I’m unconvinced he’s ready for the step up in trip today. I’d prefer to side with Dannanceys hill, A smart looking sort who won a decent point to point over 3 miles in Ireland last April. Showed a good attitude when repapering in November finishing second in a bumper at Uttoxeter over a trip that was too sharp, folded tamely when sent off favourite lto when upped in trip, Travelled well for much off the race only towards the end he shaped as though the run may have come too soon. Will be better for this, ground is ideal, and the added experience of Timmy Murphy who is 10 from 56 with the trainer could see further improvement today.

Race comment:held up in rear, headway on inside from 6th, went 5th before 2 out, no impression before last, stayed on flat, went 3rd towards finish ## 3rd sp 11/1

14:20 Kempton Grand Theft Equine £200 win 6/1

Not a straightforward ride, timing is key and today’s field should provide his best opportunity yet to get off the mark. Has had a tendency to pull too hard in his races. Has suffered due to lack of pace in his last three outings, His last race when stepped back to 1 mile showed more of his potential when Jockey Stephen Craine finally managed to get him settled, the hold up tactics nearly paying off despite the less then ideal gallop, headed late on but showed good speed and a better attitude that day, Today’s race should be run at a decent tempo and I believe if connections employ the hold up tactics with Craine on board once again he’ll come off the pace well, for me he could be well handicapped.

Race comment:held up, effort 2f out, soon ridden and no impression ## 8th sp 13/2

15:50 Lingfield £100 win Dozy Joe 9/1

Showed ability at 2 and caught the eye on reappearance at 3 when contesting a race over 6f at Kempton last may, held his own up to the line against the useful Instance. Connections clearly picked up on this improvement having entered him into a couple of big handicaps over the summer, in which he was outclassed on both occasions, reappeared at Lingfield in November and shaped as though something was amiss that day, never getting into contention. Again outclassed in a conditions race lto over 7f at Kempton, back in this grade over what I think is his preferred trip of 7f, with the speed he’s shown consistently throughout his 3yo campaign I think he should be able to get competitive today, plenty of pace in this which will help as will any improvement with the 1st time visor.

Race comment:always in rear ## Last sp 9/1

Bank =£1505

2012-01-24T10:32:00.007Z

Bank = £2375

14:20 Southwell Ivory Jazz £100 e/w 16/1

A horse not without his problems, he put in a couple of decent performances for Dean Ivory, notably last Aril when after an absence of over 600 days he sprung a surprise over 1 mile at Kempton, Showed a good attitude that day to beat two useful in form types benandonner and Jake the Snake. Handicapper over reacted awarding him an opening mark of 87 when making his debut for new yard over 10f at Chester last may. Races off a more realistic mark off 74 today with underrated Jockey Nora Looby claiming a further 7lbs, What is interesting to me is he hasn’t yet raced on easy ground and judging by his action he could be suited to it, whether he acts on the fibresand remains to be seen however he pedigree would suggest he has a good chance of doing so. Went hard after a 172 day absence 10 days ago over 10f at Lingfield notably travelled well throughout the race looking slightly one paced towards the end, probably needed that run and looked as though the step up in trip will suit. Plenty to prove but at 16/1 looks a good e/w prospect.

Race comment:led early, clear with leader 9f out, ridden over 3f out, weakened final furlong ## 6th sp 16/1

14:30 Kempton Cloudy Start 8/1 £200 win

Previously had ability over 7 and 8 furlongs on turf, seems to have lost a yard or two in pace, which was evident throughout his 2011 campaign, increasingly stepped up in distance throughout the year, the furthest being 1m6 back in November, was stretched too far that day and has since had three runs in moderate company at Linfield, a track on which he has never been his best at, He was shuffled back early on his last outing and disadvantaged throughout, in a race run at a muddling pace, he was denied a passage through when staying on well after having to make up plenty of ground on the home straight.
I believe he has a race in him over today’s trip and with the exception of allanit few of these will want to set any pace, this will suit the selection as I believe from stall 8 he will need to come across forcing him to race handily, a position which he has shown in the past can work to his advantage, Jamie Osborne has his stable in good order and may have placed this one well in here off a dangerous mark.

Race comment:held up towards rear, headway over 3f out, stayed on well, never nearer ## 6th sp 6/1

16:10 Leciester Grassfinch £250 win 14/1

Mujamead is currently favourite but is worth opposing for me, he’s better over two miles and I believe he’ll struggle with the conditions here today. David Pipe’s runners at Leicester have to be respected, he runs Painter man (2nd fav) in this. I remain unconvinced however, particularly by his attitude and the fact he’s prone to errors, which I think today’s stiff task will once again bring out of him. I willing to take them both on with the Mare Grassfinch, she wasn’t disgraced on reappearance at Fontwell back in December, came on for that run to put in a good performance at Warwick lto, not given a hard time that day she finished 18 lengths back to the useful Kaffe, travelled and jumped well for much of the race. An opening mark of 107 looks fair she should be spot on for this, and she looks the type who will take to what I believe will be a stiff test here today

Race comment:in touch, lost place 2nd, well behind after 6th, pulled up before 3 out ## PU sp 10/1

Bank = £1725

2011-09-15T10:30:00.006+01:00

Bank = 55.5pts

16:10 Yarmouth Huff and Puff 4pts win 12/1

Slow maturing, powerful type who looks built for today’s trip. Given too much to do last time out when bringing the field along at a strong pace, travelled well only to lose out to useful prospect Palazzo Bianco. A much steadier pace expected in this and if Fallon (who is 13 from 52 with trainer and has a 20% s/r here) can angle him in from his good draw behind Thubian and Roccafella (who I expect to lead throughout) his superior travelling speed should see him bang their over a course which should be much suited to his style.

Race comment:keen tracked leaders, ridden over 3f out, outpaced over 2f out, switched right over 1f out, kept on towards finish ## 7th sp 8/1

16:20 Ayr Zenella 4pts e/w 33/1

Put in some good performances as a 2yo including winning a listed contest over 1mile at Pontefract last October. Not disgraced on reappearance in July in a listed contest over 7f at Chester found the trip two sharp that day but showed she had trained on filled out and looked impressive physically. Hasn’t settled well early on in her last two starts and not knocked about as a result. Should be suited to the steady pace on offer here today and I do find the step up to 1m2f interesting as all three starts this year have been over 7f which she has clearly found too sharp plus 1st cheeckpieces could help her regain focus. Very well thought of by connections and has showed plenty of ability at home and for me may fit the profile of a seasonal filly, producing her best towards the latter end of the season, at the price I’ll take a chance that she can reproduce it here today.

Race comment:led, ridden and headed over 2f out, soon weakened ## 10th sp 20/1

Bank = 47.5pts

2011-08-19T10:05:00.004+01:00

Bank = 74.5pts

14:00 York Lady Chaparral 3pts win 12/1

A smart filly who has put in several decent efforts this year, including a very good performance here over 14f last month when she set a quick tempo travelling impressively throughout but failing to see out the extra two furlongs. She has had a tendency to race keenly at times but now seems to be getting the hang of things showing a good attitude when winning at Carlisle lto over 11f, I was impressed with the way she travelled that day as she has a powerful stride, this is a stronger contest albeit one that should be run to suit as I don’t think the pace will be particularly strong and if Sanders can get her to settle up front early her travelling speed will see her at the business end as 12f certainly looks to be her trip with no worries about the ground I believe she could be open to further improvement today.

Race comment:keen in touch, ridden 3f out, weakened 2f out ## 12th sp 10/1

15:40 York Requinto 6pts win 7/1

Hoof it deservers respect particularly with his last performance in the stewards cup but he drops back in trip and steps up to group company for the first time today so 5/2 is far too short, I was hugely impressed with Requinto’s performance when he showed excellent speed to win the Morecombe stakes lto(almost setting a new course record on similar ground to today’s), he’ll relish the quick pace on offer here today and being drawn close to the favourite should help as Lordan will want to keep tabs on him to know when to produce his run, which I believe off this flyweight will see him superior to Hoof it over this trip.

Race comment:raced stands side tracked leaders, ridden 2f out, weakened final furlong ## 13th sp 5/1

19:35 Salisbury Swindy 10pts win 6/1

I’ve been following this one since backing him at Epsom two races ago and have waited to see him stepped up to a mile and a half, Backing him for reasons stated in previous write up’s, I firmly believe this race is ideal for him and taking into account opposition and conditions I fully expect him win this, a change of tactics to bring him into to a prominent position early on would be welcome, In which case I can see him winning on the bridle.

Race comment:prominent, led after 3f, swerved badly left and ran out over 6f out ## Ran out sp 9/2

Bank = 55.5pts

2011-08-17T09:37:00.004+01:00

Bank = 78.5pts

15:30 Nottingham Crème Anglaise 4pts win 5/1

Ivan Vasalavich, Polperro and Traffic sister should set a decent pace in this, of which could set up the race for Crème anglaise from the in form Bell yard, she caught the eye when racing over today’s trip at York lto, in a race which had plenty of pace, Hayley turner had to get to work early but by the time she responded it was too late however she came from a long way back without having the smoothest of passages finishing 3 ¼ lengths back to improving Prescott filly Tenby Lady, I think she's potentially well handicapped coming into this and will also appreciate the faster ground here today which she hasn’t met since winning impressively two races ago.

Race comment:prominent 1f, held up, switched right 3f out, chased winner over 1f out, 1/2 length down when stuck on nose by rival jockeys whip towards finish, held after ## 2nd sp 11/2

Bank = 74.5pts

2011-08-15T11:10:00.006+01:00

Bank = 88.5pts

17:00 Kempton Ugalla 2pts e/w 10/1

Needed the run on reappearance over 12f at Doncaster last month, forgiven for her next run when upped to 14f at Salisbury when she was badly hampered as the rest of the field were asked to quicken. Finished 5 ½ to the improving Final Liberation lto shaping as if step up was needed
Ridden the wrong way last two starts as the key to this one is getting her to race out in front well drawn I can’t see them going a particularly decent gallop here which should play into her hands. Looks a decent staying type, showed decent ability as a 3yo and it’s interesting to see him switched to this surface and up in trip as trainer places them well here and yard are coming into form.

Race comment:took keen hold in touch, pushed along 6f out, weakened inside final 2f ## 5th sp 14/1

19:10 Windsor Sure Route 6pts win 7/1

Ran a good race at Newbury over 7f back in may, travelled well and finished strongly to finish 2nd, She was then too keen in an 8f contest at Sandown and didn’t look to appreciate the rapidly softening ground that day. Slightly out of her depth last time out over 7f but not as bad as result suggests as she travelled well but met traffic problems and missed her chance. Looks like a miler and returns too favoured ground today, down in class and if Dobbs can get her prominent early on I believe she has an excellent chance.

Race comment:held up towards rear, not clear run over 2f out and soon switched left to outside, stayed on to 2nd approaching final furlong, no chance with winner ## 2nd sp 5/1

Bank = 78.5pts

2011-08-04T15:10:00.003+01:00

Bank = 92.5pts

19:55 Sandown Mattoral 4pts win 9/1

Race comment: dwelt, soon in touch on outside, pushed along over 3f out, hung right under pressure and weakened over 2f out ##6th sp 4/1

Bank = 88.5pts

2011-08-03T10:30:00.003+01:00

Bank = 96.5pts

15:10 Pontefract Jade 4pts win 9/2

Camberley two warrants respect having won his last 4 starts, had things his own way in what have been relatively weak contests and goes under a penalty today, certainly odds on is far too short and I’d like to take him on with Ollie pears’s filly Jade, has shown ability and is yet to get off the mark in handicap company, She has put in decent efforts however particularly when 3 ½ lengths back to improving Pepper lane in may and in a in a decent contest here last month over 6f, showed good speed but just failed to get her head in front of improving horse Louis the Pious, didn’t act on the softer ground when stepped up to 7f at Carlisle after that and her last two runs over 7f were on softer ground then she would have liked, she did put in respectable efforts though and didn’t get the smoothest passage on both occasions, shaping on both occasions as if the step up to a mile should suit. Steady pace on offer will help; down in grade and back on preferred ground I think she’ll take some beating.

Race comment: chased winner throughout, ridden and tried to close over 1f out, driven and no impression final furlong ## 2nd sp 7/2

Bank = 92.5

2011-08-01T10:41:00.011+01:00

Bank = 92.2

19:40 Windsor Pats legacy 2pts e/w 16/1

A few with claims in this, however I do believe the way this race will be run should work heavily in the selections favour. , Has shown good speed on previous occasions, Likes to get out in front early and if doing so today could be hard to catch as with the exception of Osgood the rest like to come off the pace which I can’t see their being a great deal. Osgood doesn’t seem to act on this ground and would appear outclassed, had a race just 2 days ago and is better over a couple of furlongs extra, I think this in effect will leave him back with the rest of the group as he’ll struggle to maintain his speed. 3 times winner over in the states and now campaigning for up and comming trainer Jo hughes with this being his third start for the new yard. The selection put in a good performance when winning over this trip at Chepstow last month on g/s ground, showed a good attitude and speed controlling the race from the front. Outclassed lto under a penalty also on g/s ground with 1st time blinkers not helping causing him to burn up too early. The blinkers are left off today and back down in grade will be interesting as he will appreciate the faster ground, talented jockey Josh Baudains takes off a useful 7lbs.

Race comment: took keen hold, chased leading pair, not much room and squeezed through inside final 2f, ridden to lead inside final furlong, headed and not pace of winner final 100 yards ## 2nd sp - 5/1

Bank = 96.5pts

2011-07-28T11:10:00.011+01:00

Bank = 76.2pts

14:15 Goodwood Boogie shoes 4pts win 10/1

Roger Varians yard is currently in very good form and I’ve been impressed with this one on all four of his starts to date. Improved markedly when stepped up to today’s trip on reappearance at Salisbury back in May, travelled very well finishing strongly to win that race comfortably. Finished 3rd in a strong race when sent of favourite at Epsom lto wandered slightly towards the finish and didn’t look fully comfortable handling the final turn. Bigger field here should help him to focus and I think his notable galloping power will see him bang in the mix at the end if Neil Callan can find him some cover in the early stages.

Race comment: chased leaders, effort on inside over 2f out, stayed on inside final furlong, not pace to challenge ##6th sp - 8/1

15:05 Nottingham Go nani go 5pts win 5/1

A decent horse as a two year old and hasn’t been without his problems with injury. Put in some good efforts against better company then this last season. Showed signs of returning to form lto at Doncaster travelled well but had knowere to go in the closing stages finishing close up in second full of running. With the likes of Grudge and Baby queen setting a decent early pace this should set the race up for the selection who likes to be help up. Was racing off a mark of 84 this time last year goes off 72 today, this onelooks ready to go in.

Race comment: in touch in rear, headway on outer over 1f out, led inside final furlong ##WON sp - 9/4

20:40 Epsom Regal Approval 5pts win 9/2

Ran some good races last year including a very good effort on handicap debut at York finishing 41/2 lengths back to some useful types off a mark of 81 despite being unlucky in running (this race much easier today). Will have needed the run on reappearance last April and has since put in two decent efforts despite being unsuited to the drop back to 5f lto. Back up to preferred 6f here off an attractive mark of 76, will handle the track and goes from a good draw. I’ll take the selection to catch Roodie queen and Welsh inlet (who I expect to make the running) on the run in.

Race comment: restless in stalls, slowly away and outpaced in rear, never a factor ##last sp - 7/2

Bank = 92.2pts

2011-07-27T14:34:00.002+01:00

Bank = 83.2pts

20:05 Sandown Lady Gabrielle 4pts win 4/1

With Tameen, Mystic edge and flying phoenix non runners I think Lady Gabrielle can take this. The in form filly has warmed to her task well since switching to handicap company on her reappearance last month, has showed a good attitude and travels well, I can see their being no strong contestants for the lead which should suit as she like to race prominently and could dictate. Hunter forward is interesting as she’s come in for support this morning but has only won a weak 5f maiden in Australia and alto Cummani does well with these types she’s been off the track since last October so I’ll oppose her here at such a short price on yard debut.

Race comment: chased leaders on outside, ridden 3f out, hung right under pressure and weakened over 1f out ## 7th sp - 11/4

20:35 Sandown Blazing field 3pts win 16/1

An improving filly who travelled well and shown good speed to finish 3rd over 12f lto, should come on for that run and the step up to two miles is interesting as she looks a decent staying type and is bred for todays trip. Memory lane is likely to be popular after winning his last two starts but he now looks exposed and doesn’t fit the profile of one of Prescott’s better improvers. Mango park didn’t show a great deal of speed lto in what was a weak race so one to oppose for me, so I’ll take the selection to get involved at in what\t could be a very generous opening mark.

Race comment: chased leader, led over 3f out, hung right from over 2f out, ridden and joined when edged left over 1f out, headed and no extra final 150 yards ## 2nd sp - 16/1

Bank = 76.2pts

2011-07-26T12:10:00.003+01:00

Bank = 68pts

14:35 Goodwood Highland castle 2pts e/w 20/1

Strong well balanced sort from a shrewd yard who caught the eye when showing his battling qualities to win over 10f on his second start at Windsor. Started slowly and didn’t travel well when upped to today’s distance on his handicap debut lto at Haydock. I think he was probably unsuited by the quick ground that day. However I was impressed with the way he responded in the final few furlongs showing good speed to get in front from a long way back, which was even more commendable given that the pace was muddling throughout, also hung slightly towards the end. I think that there could be plenty more to come from him today if Dane O’neill can get him settled early with the likes of Dordogne and Moriety likely to set an honest pace and the ease in the ground helping.

Race comment: held up in rear, took keen hold, ridden over 2f out, hung right over 1f out, stayed on inside final furlong, never near leaders ## 5th sp - 16/1

15:20 Beverly Johnny lesters hair 1.5pts e/w 9/1

Tends to run well around this time of year and showed signs of a return to form when finishing 3rd at Newcastle last month. Disappointed lto when backed at Ripon, probably given too much to do that day and will be better suited to the steadier pace I predict here today, the step down in trip should be ok as this is a stiff mile and he does finish strongly on best form. Back down to a decent mark in a race that should be run to suit I think he can go close.

Race comment: with leader, led 5f out, ridden over 1f out, kept on well ## WON sp - 6/1

Bank = 83.2pts

2011-07-19T12:38:00.005+01:00

Bank = 78pts

14:45 Yarmouth Miss Villefranche 2pts win 16/1

Will handle the soft ground here today, most likely needed the run on reappearance at wolvs over 9f in May, also tried in the first time head gear that day. 12f furlongs was a step to far lto and the step back to a mile here should suit. Willing to give her another chance as looks like a decent enough sort and the type to improve at 3, Michael Bell does well with these types here and this looks like a good opportunity to get off the mark.

Race comment: disputed lead until led over 3f out, ridden and headed over 1f out, kept on one pace ## 4th sp - 14/1

16:00 Muss Hurlingham 2pts e/w 14/1

At his best on soft ground, proven tricky to get right (not won for 29 races) but his win and place record stands at 24% all of which have come in races of better quality then this, only last year he was running of a mark of 70, Races of a career low mark of 53 today and his last to races have been encouraging ,with the exception of Pokfulham who is far too short at 3/1 this is a race full of out of form horses, and with very little pace expected if Graham Gibbons can get him out in front early, I think he has a chance.

Race comment: held up towards rear, headway 2f out, ridden over 1f out, kept on ## 4th sp - 14/1

16:15 Yarmouth Jack my Boy 4pts win 13/2

Chiefdom Price is currently odds on, but I remain unconvinced, looks like a fragile sort and although his campaign got of to a good start winning a decent Maiden last April he looks like a firm ground horse to me, didn’t show a great deal of speed lto and has a tendency to hang, I feel this race with just 6 runners could be a step back for him today. I prefer to side with Jack my Boy, has yet to fire this year but showed signs of a return to form when backed at Pontefract lto when leaving the blinkers off, With the return to a small field no problem (3 wins and 2 places from 8 races with 9 runners or less) and 1st time visor helping to focus him I feel he could have the rest in his pocket if reproducing the sort of the excellent speed he showed over 6f last year.

Race comment: led after 1f, ridden and headed over 1f out, kept on one pace ## 4th sp - 10/1

Bank = 68pts

2011-07-18T13:28:00.005+01:00

Bank = 82pts

17:00 Ayr Lady del sol 2pts e/w 25/1

Showed some decent ability last year and 6f looks to be her trip. Showed a return to fitness and looked welllast month over 6f at Doncaster travelling well if not a little freely at times. Didn’t settle in 1st time blinkers lto over 5f, but connections have stuck with them, Return to good ground is an advantage and I think if settling out in front early today in a race which I predict little pace she may prove hard to pull back.

Race comment: held up mid-division, ridden and weakened over 1f out ## last sp - 33/1

Bank = 78pts

2011-07-15T13:18:00.005+01:00

Bank = 85pts

No time for a write up on this one.

Newbury 16:15 Lucy limelights 3pts win @ 10/1

Race comment: soon led, driven over 2f out, narrowly headed 2f out, still pressing leaders under pressure over 1f out, weakened inside final furlong ## 5th sp 8/1

Bank = 82pts

2011-07-14T12:29:00.003+01:00

Bank =89pts

19:45 Epsom Swindy 4pts win 6/1

Caught the eye on his reappearance at Kempton back in April, looks a class sort with an excellent action. It’s interesting to see connections keep him at 10f as I think he will go on to improve over further but I think epsom’s demands on stamina could play into his hands today and suit his style of running. I think he will set a gallop that will prove too strong for the opposition. Outclassed lto at Newmarket 7 days ago and will appreciate the return to this smaller field here. One to follow I expect he has great potential and is capable of plenty more.

Race comment: held up in rear, headway 3f out, squeezed through rivals over 2f out, soon ridden, kept on towards finish ## 2nd sp 7/2

Bank = 85pts

2011-07-13T13:06:00.002+01:00

Bank = 61pts

15:50 Catterick Cadeaux pearl 4pts win 7/1

Shows excellent speed over 5f, 1st time blinkers took effect when storming out in front on less then ideal ground at Windsor last month, burned up too early getting caught late on. Again looked to burn up t0o early in a hot contest at York lto showing excellent speed and travelling well only to again fade late on, outclassed that day and should be more then capable mixing it in today’s company. I think his running style will lend itself well to the downhill nature of this track. Back in this smaller field form a good draw I feel he will dominate the field from the front with his trademark rapid pace and the rest will be playing catch up, but by then it will be too late.

Race comment: made all, clear 3f out, driven and stayed on well final furlong ## Won sp - 6/1

16:20 Catterick Kodicil 3pts win 5/1

Needed run on reappearance, when a little awkward leaving the stalls finishing ¼ length back over 10f furlongs at Bev, Improved when dead heating lto over 10f at bev despite getting hampered, 3 of the top 4 from that race have gone on to win, stayed on well that day and looked as though one and a half miles would suit him. Bred to stay improving and looks well handicapped, trainer has a good record in these sorts of races and yard are showing signs of hitting form. NR

bank = 89pts

2011-07-12T11:48:00.002+01:00

Bank = 65 pts

16:40 Brighton Loose quality 2pts e/w 25/1

Didn’t show much ability as a 2yo but has looked the type to mature slowly. Not disgraced on reappearance over 6f at Doncaster in April, ran on towards the finish after getting slightly hampered to finish 3rd. Met traffic problems on his next run over 6f at Nottingham whilst being held up(needs to race prominently) on his handicap debut. Sold from the Tate yard after that but showed he settled into his new surroundings when putting in a good effort lto at kepmton,over 7f this time racing from the front, travelled well and stayed on finishing 4th denied a clear run towards the finish. The step up to 8f today looks to suit and will hopefully get up front early from a good draw. Keniry also rides well round here and I think this nicely bred type is potentially well handicapped

Race comment: chased leaders 5f ## 10th sp - 16/1

Bank = 61pts

2011-07-11T09:10:00.005+01:00

Bank = 73pts

15:00 Ayr Chosen one 2pts win 15/2

On best form is a much better horse then these. Hasn’t really got going this year but showed signs of returning to fitness lto, when despite a poor start and the jockey virtually motionless throughout finished 6 1/4 lengths back to the in form your gifted over 5f at haydock 10 days ago, this is a horse that needs to be wound up and would appear turning out quickly. At his best on g/f ground which he gets today, this is a less competitive line-up then his usual races and with the yard going well and plenty of doubts for me over the rest he can get in front today.

Race comment: with leader, ridden over 1f out, weakened final 50 yards ## 5th sp - 9/2

19:20 Wolverhampton Rasteau 1pt e/w 33/1

Needed the run on reappearance over 1 mile back in may never really got going and eased down as a result. Didn’t look to appreciate the ease in the ground when upped to 10f lto at Leicester, again heavily eased that day. Interesting to see him upped to 14f today (in a race when all three market leaders are unproven over this trip) as he has always looked like an out and out stayer, has been slightly outpaced on previous two runs but I can see them going a steady gallop and it will help if the selection can get cover on the rail throughout,helped by his low draw. Yet to show his hand and races off a dangerously low mark from a yard who does occasionally land one a big odds. Worth some e/w interest.

Race comment: led, headed after about 3f, tracked leader, pushed along over 6f out, ridden over 4f out, soon weakened ## last (vitually pulled up) sp - 50/1

20:40 Windsor Novel Dancer 4pts win 9/1

Well balanced type, travelled well finding one too good over 10f at Bath last month, Stretched by the trip lto but again travelled well only too fade in the final furlong his rider not reaching for the whip. The return to 10f should suit and the likes of One lucky lady and Circus star should ensure a decent pace, of which could set up the selection from his good draw. Jockey has been riding well lately and takes off 5 lbs, that together with Hannons very good record with 3yo’s here and 9/1 looks generous.

Race comment: held up in 7th, pushed along over 3f out, effort on outside and ridden over 2f out, wandered under pressure and no impression over 1f out ## 5th sp - 8/1

Bank = 65pts

2011-07-06T21:06:00.002+01:00

Bank = 76pts

21:20 Kempton Ermyntrude 3pts win @ 7/1

Race comment: raced wide mid-division, ridden over 2f out, ran on final furlong, not reach leaders ## 3rd sp - 15/2

Bank = 73pts

2011-06-29T10:44:00.007+01:00

Bank = 67pts.

16:30 Catterick Al burkaan 4pts win @ 11/4

Race comment: in rear, ridden and headway on inside over 1f out, joined leader just inside final furlong, driven to lead final strides ## Won sp - 9/4.

Adorable choice 1pt win @ 16/1

Race comment: dwelt, soon ridden along to track leader, driven over 2f out, one pace final furlong ## 5th sp - 20/1.

1pt forecast, 1-Al burkaan 2-Adorable choice.

Bank = 76pts

2011-06-28T08:10:00.004+01:00

Bank = 73pts

15:00 Brighton Pytheas 2pts win @ 8/1

Race comment: prominent, chased winner over 3f out, challeneged and every chance 2f out, hung left under pressure over 1f out, no extra inside final furlong ## 3rd sp - 7/1

15:15 Hamilton Reason to believe 4pts win @ 10/1

Race comment: in touch, lost place over 3f out, never dangerous ## 6th sp - 10/1

Bank = 67pts

2011-06-23T16:12:00.003+01:00

Bank = 82pts

17:15 Warwick Astromagik 2pts e/w @ 14/1

Race comment: slowly into stride, held up towards rear, headway centre over 2f out, stayed on inside final furlong, not pace to threaten ## 5th (sp - 14/1)
Update:

21:10 Leicester Midnight trader 5pts win @15/2

Race comment: took keen hold, held up in last pair, headway on outside over 2f out, hung right over 1f out, weakened inside final furlong ## 5th (sp - 11/2)

Bank = 73pts

2011-06-22T12:57:00.005+01:00

Bank = 86pts

15:35 Carlisle Destiny blue 2pts win @ 12/1

Race comment: chased leaders, ridden 2f out, no extra inside final furlong ## 8th (sp - 11/1)

16:10 Carlisle Gold rules 1pt win @ 25/1

Race comment: dwelt, held up towards rear, ridden over 3f out, never dangerous ## 10th (sp - 25/1)

16:20 Sailsbury Slight advantage 1pt win @ 14/1

Race comment: in touch, ridden over 3f out, switched left 2f out, switched right over 1f out, driven and stayed on inside final furlong ## 4th (sp - 10/1)

Bank = 82pts

2011-06-21T11:25:00.013+01:00

Bank = 93pts

Brighton 15:00 Unlimmited 2pts win @ 9/1

Race comment: in rear, ridden 3f out, effort over 1f out, kept on one pace:3rd (sp - 9/1)

Brighton 15:30 Out of the storm 4pts win @ 10/1

Race comment: led early, tracked leader, ridden to lead 3f out, headed 2f out, rallied to go 2nd inside final furlong: 2nd (sp - 16/1)

Brighton 16:30 Not so bright 1pt win @ 16/1

Race comment: mid-division, ridden and headway over 1f out, kept on same pace:5th (sp - 10/1)

Bank = 86pts

2011-06-20T09:57:00.008+01:00

Bank =97 pts

Kempton 15:15 Eshoog 1.5pts win @ 14/1

Race comment: slowly away, held up in rear, kept on entering final furlong, no impression: 5th (sp - 20/1)

Chepstow 19:30 Decider 1pt win @ 6/1

Race comment: soon led, headed 3f out, ridden over 2f out, led again over 1f out, headed towards finish:2nd (sp - 8/1)

Bank = 93pts

2011-06-19T13:11:00.010+01:00

Bank = 100pts

15:10 Pont Silly Gilly 1pt win @ 13/2

Race comment: in touch, headway to chase leader approaching 2f out, ridden to lead and edged left over 1f out, headed and no extra inside final furlong: 2nd (sp - 4/1)

17:40 Pont Fleurie Lover 2pt win @ 16/1

Race comment: in rear, never a factor: 7th (sp - 16/1)

Bank = 97pts

2011-05-05T12:04:00.002+01:00

Got £875 left to play with, this really is a must win day. No time for write ups but I have put in days of study leading up to these meetings. Hopefully it pays off!

14:20 Chester forte dei marmi win £200 6/1

14:55 Chester Sadlers risk win £200 11/1

15:50 Goodwood Askaud win £200 10/1

16:05 Thin red line win £100 9/2

16:25 Doc Hay win £100 9/1

17:30 Minkie moon win £75 20/1

2011-05-03T15:41:00.003+01:00

Bank = £1,625

A couple I am very excited about today.

16:35 Bath Top dance way £350 win @ 3/1

£50 Forecast 1-Top dance 3/1 2-Jewelled £10/3

18:20 Exeter Barnhill brownnie £350 win @ 4/1

2011-04-07T11:56:00.004+01:00

One I like today.

Bank = £2,725

15:30 Hereford Rathconrath £450 win 8/1

Race comment:tracked leaders, reminders 8th, soon lost place, behind when pulled up before 2 out.

Update: Very disappointing run earlier, after much study I think these two look like outstanding bets.

Kempton 19:55 Fair passion £300 win 13/2

Race comment:in rear, headway halfway, pushed wide and lost place 2f out, headway approaching final furlong, ran on, not reached winner:2ND

Kempton 20:25 We have a dream £300 win 9/2

Race comment:chased leaders, ridden halfway, kept on same pace:4TH

£50 double

Bank = £1,625

2011-04-06T09:06:00.004+01:00

Bank = £3,875

14:50 Nott Star rover £250 win 25/1

Race comment:led, pushed along and headed over 2f out, still every chance when rider got reins tangled up over 1f out, weakened inside final furlong:8TH

15:20 Nott Perfect passtime £300 win 3/1

Race comment:tracked leaders, went 2nd 2f out, ridden over 1f out, edged left inside final furlong, 3rd and no extra close home:3RD

16:40 Bev Unwripit £200 win 14/1

Race comment:towards rear, effort over 1f out, never dangerous:10TH

19:40 Kemp Tasfeya £350 win 11/1

Race comment:led, ridden and kicked for home from 2f out, kept on well, headed post:2ND

The Masters Robert Karlsson £25 e/w 125/1

Bank = £2,725

2011-04-04T11:02:00.001+01:00

Bank = £4,325

Not a lot going on today but will be playing these two at big odds.

Kelso 14:30 Cassius £150 e/w 16/1

Needs g/s ground which he gets today. Hasn’t won since Dec 09, but does go well round here having placed 4 times and winning once from 9 starts. Was found out in last 6 starts since winning here (down to a combination of the wrong going and getting outclassed). Back down to a more realistic mark today and useful Jockey is a bonus.

Race comment:held up in rear, headway 4 out, effort next, never on terms**6TH

Kelso 16:00 Northern Acres £75 e/w 66/1

Has shown hints of ability since switching to hurdles, Notably last time out round here travelled and jumped well enough eventually getting outpaced by some fairly decent sorts, eased down on the run in once Jockey knew he was beaten, should come on for that and extra furlong today should suit. Stable jockey back on board, trainer does like to aim them here and has landed a few at bigger odds.

Race comment:mid-division, weakened before 3 out**11TH

Bank = £3,875

2011-04-02T13:41:00.002+01:00

Bank = £5,125

14:20 Kempton Pink Symphony £400 win 9/2

I expect the likes of Bikini babe and Shamali set a fairly decent pace setting things up for Penitent,Cumulus Nimbus and also Pink Symphony who I’m going to side with.
Enjoyed a good campaign last summer and looks the type to train on, Showed good spirit over this distance last September in a career best effort against some useful types, the race was run in a decent time and I liked her attitude battling gamely, getting beaten a short head by the odds favourite. I think she’ll handle the sharp nature of this track better then her rivals. Goes well fresh and is well regarded by the trainer.

Race comment:tracked leading pair, pushed along over 3f out, ridden and swithed left over 1f out, not pace to challenge**3RD

16:40 Uttox China Gold £400 win 7/2

Improving and caught the eye when finishing second over 2m4 at Doncaster after a long layoff made up good ground after getting outpaced early on. Put in another good effort lto over the same trip at Sandown finding one two good again, Crying out for a longer trip which he gets today, should be capable of a big run in this company.

Race comment: held up in touch towards rear, headway approaching 7th, chased winner well before 3 out, not fluent 2 out, no impression last**2ND

Bank = £4,325

2011-04-01T11:14:00.003+01:00

Bank = £4,875

I'll have to keep these brief as again I'm very short on time today.

Will try to update all results later.

15:20 Muss northern dare £250 win 12/1

Race comment:towards rear, ridden halfway, ran on inside final furlong, never nearer**5TH

15:50 Muss Good Boy Jackson £250 win 13/2

Race comment:slowly into stride, raced wide throughout, always towards rear**LAST

16:00 New Lewlour supreme £250 win 7/1

Yet to see the best of this one, travelled and jumped really well when well backed lto over 2 miles at Ayr.
This trip more suited and should appreciate the quicker conditions today.
Good to see James Reveley on board and I expect a big run today.

Race comment:held up in rear, headway before 4 out, ridden and upsides winner last when not fluent, not quickened final 50 yards**2ND

15:40 Stratford Tatispout £300 win 3/1

Well balanced filly form the in form Longston yard. Going the right way over hurdles, Put in a good
effort lto over c+d on handicap debut losing by a short head to the improving Remember now.
Bang in form and 2m looks to be her trip, has an excellent chance off today’s mark.

Race comment:held up in rear, took keen hold, headway approaching 6th, ridden after 3 out, weakened before 2 out**4TH

17:30 New Bear dancing £400 win 9/4

Consistent sort, who has impressed in point to points, (winning two),
Showed he can cope well with the stiff fences when jumping well, especially when asked towards the end over c+d lto showed a good attitude that day just missing out by a head. Looked a little distracted
at times, and the first time headgear as well as the bigger field should help with his focus today.
In form trainer looks to have found him an excellent chance in this weak field

Race comment:in touch, badly hampered 4th and soon pushed along towards rear, headway 13th, ridden in 4th before 4 out, went 2nd 2 out, led before last, drew clear flat, kept on well towards finish**WON

Returns = £1,300

Bank = £5,125

2011-03-29T11:12:00.001+01:00

Bank = £5,675

No time at all today, a quick note to say i'm going for a Johnston double.

16:00 South Exemplary £400 win 7/2

Race comment:tracked leader, led after 3f, ridden and headed 3f out, weakened over 1f out**6TH

16:30 South Coax £400 win 10/3

Race comment: close up, hampered after 1f and soon in rear, ridden 4f out, soon outpaced, switched wide 3f out, driven and kept on to snatch 4th post*4TH

Bank = £4,875

2011-03-26T11:01:00.003Z

Bank = £6,375

Short on time this morning, backed these two.

15:50 Bangor Sir ian £400 win 2/1

Race comment:tracked leader and keen, ridden to lead before 2 out, headed 2 out, soon weakened**5TH

16:20 Bangor Liberate £300 win 14/1

Race comment:held up towards rear, pushed along and weakened from 8th*6TH

Bank = £5,675

2011-03-25T13:00:00.004Z

Bank = £5,025

Extremely bust betting day for me, lets hope this lot can boost the bank.

14:30 Lingfield Cristaliyev £250 win 14/1

I’m going to oppose the odds on favourite Dorothy’s dancing as plenty went in her favour when she won lto, race was run in a poor time and for me she doesn’t look like a natural sprinter. The selection has run in better company then he meets today, was unsuited to the trip lto. And didn’t look too appreciate the fibresand after fly jumping the start over 6f at Southwell the time before that. Ran some decent races last year and looked to have to scope to improve.
1st time out at Lingfield today but I think he’ll be well suited by the sharp nature of the track.
Not seen since last Nov but trainer can ready one and should go close in this company.
Race comment:held up in touch, ridden over 1f out, kept on same pace final furlong**4TH

15:15 Newbury Kasban £250 win 11/2

Useful on the flat and warming to his task over Hurdles, Showed a good attitude to win of the back of a break lto when responded well to win by 5 lengths over this trip. Will appreciate the good ground, and should handle the run in. Jockey takes of a useful 7lbs.

Race comment: prominent, led 3rd, headed after 5th, driven and every chance before 3 out, weakened approaching last**5TH

15:50 Newbury Bui Zhu £400 win 9/2

Made a good start 1st time over fences at Fontwell making all to finish 1st over 2m4 despite looking a little green at times. Well thought of by connections he was dropped straight into a competitive handicap over 2m6 here last November finishing 7 ¾ lengths back in 5th to some useful types. Probably given a bit too much to do that day sure to come on for that run and should appreciate the return to a smaller field here today. Dropped 2 lbs, Jumps well and is looks to be improving into a decent staying type. Should go well in this company.

Race comment:led, jumped well throughout, strongly challenged from 4 out, hard ridden 2 out, stayed on gamely under pressure, just held on**WON

16:00 Sedge Sitting Tenant £300 win 5/2

Useful over hurdles then off track after an injury. Took a fall on reappearance lto looked a little out of sorts(forgiven after 446 days off the track) Well bred sort and connections think he’s got big potential, step back today gives him an excellent chance. Trainer has an excellent record here in these events and I’ll take him to put in a bold bid against the like’s of Catch Bob who is a poor jumper and finished well back lto to today’s Odds on favourite Lightning rod(who I believe will struggle to see out this trip)

**Non runner

16:25 Newbury Alcade £400 win 11/2

Scopey sort who should relish the step up in trip today. Showed good speed travelling well to finish 1 length back round here last time out (lost a shoe that day). Was impressed by his attitude in what was a tough handicap debut and think he’ll come on for that run. Shrewd yard reports that he’s been schooling well, also Jockey is currently riding well which can be a big plus in these races.

Race comment:settled in mid-division, headway approaching when not fluent 3 out, stumbled and unseated rider after next

20:15 Wolv £350 win Liberty Lady 6/1

Backed this one lto, ran a good race and today’s step back will suit, this is tougher but looks to be improving and I was pleased enough with her last run so will go in again.

Race comment:in rear, ridden 2f out, stayed on final furlong, nearest finish**4TH

Returns:£2,600

Bank = £6,375

2011-03-22T12:47:00.004Z

Bank = £5,525

Nothing to get to excited about today, but I’ve found a couple I like the look of.

15:00 Exeter Call to arms £300 win 9/1

Finished 2nd over this trip at Bangor last November. Was too keen throughout and possibly found the going too soft that day, Much improved lto over 2 miles at Catterick, settled for most of the race (idled slightly in places) and jumped notably well finishing 2 nd to the progressive Mark Twain. Running style should suit this track and should appreciate the better ground today. Well thought of by connections, still improving and if Donald devereux can keep him focused early on should go close in this company.

Race comment:held up in touch on inside, headway to track leaders when blundered 4th, outpaced 3 out, weakened from next**6TH

16:40 Southwell Liberty green £200 win 14/1

A decent sprinter, she has put in some good times to win twice and place once over this distance at Lingfield. A quirky sort and a good break is key as she needs to race up front. Missed the break lto and showed signs of temperament, driven form a long way out to end up ½ a length back from the winner. 1st time cheekpieces should help her to focus. Interesting to see the switch to fibresand, pedegree suggests see has a good chance of taking to the surface. Is not afraid to battle, and if in the mood I think can be capable of a big race today.

Race comment:chased winner, ridden halfway, weakened over 1f out**4TH

Bank = £5,025

2011-03-21T09:26:00.007Z

Bank = £6,175

14:10 Kelso Quel Elite £250 win 12/1

Wyse hill teabags is improving and deserves to be favourite for this, Won a weak race over 2m4 at Musselburgh last month, flattered by that form as the race was run at a false pace with nothing else getting into it besides the exposed Moon Indigo who was racing under a penalty, ran well here over today’s distance lto to finish 8 ¼ lengths back in 3rd. Should run a big race today but for me could do with further especially at a track like Kelso.
And the man is also improving, hacked up lto over 2m4 at Ayr, step back is not the natural progression for me, and I’m not convinced Kelso will suit his style.
Quel Elite caught the eye lto in a decent enough race over 2m3 at Catterick, The race was run at a good pace throughout and selection looked a little green, given an easy time on the run in but despite this ran on strongly in the towards the end, should settle for that run and shaped as if the step back would suit. With the predicted slow pace I’d like to see a change in tactics today with the selection up at the front under the useful Paddy Aspell. Trainer can land them at bigger odds and for me the selection who looks a fairly decent type was sandbagging lto and could be aimed at this race today.

Update:Wyse hill teabags won comfortably, Selection should have a race in him and after showing his true colours today I like to see him stepped up to 2m4f

Race comment: mid-division, pushed along and outpaced from 6th, kept on from 2 out, went 2nd towards finish, no chance with winner**2ND

15:50 Wolves Tornado force £400 win 9/2

Was impressed by the way he looked and travelled when winning over c+d lto, making all to beat some useful looking sorts. Has decent pedigree, is well suited to this distance and yard are in good form. A nice scopey sort looks every inch a stayer and still improving. The rest all have doubts for me, I’ll take this one lead from the front and win well today.

Update: Will keep an eye on this one, Should be more effective over further.

Race comment: tracked leader, ridden to lead 2f out, headed inside final furlong, kept on one pace**3RD

Bank = £5,525

2011-03-18T10:20:00.001Z

Busy day so will have to keep these write up’s brief

Bank £4,875

Cheltenham 1:30 £350 win Unaccompanied 7/1

Only her third run over hurdles, won impressively on first two starts, the second being a Grade one event. Both won over softer ground then today, but watching her action suggests to me she’ll have no problem with the quicker conditions and has won on good ground on the flat. A nice type with huge potential gets a 7lb Fillies allowance and I expect a bold run today.

Race comment: mid-division, steady headway when not much room approaching 2 out, tracked leaders going well between last 2, not much room again and switched left to challenge last, soon ridden and chased winner, kept on flat, always held**2ND

15:05 Old English £400 win 5/1

Travelled well when sent off odds on over 7f at Southwell in Feb, would have gone close if not for being hampered. Showed a good attitude lto over a mile here,again travelled well but caught out by the extra furlong so today’s step back should suit. Should be plenty of pace in this and if getting a position in behind the leaders I think he’ll appreciate the tow coming of the final turn in the hands of Kieren Fallon. A well bred sort should be capable of a big run in this company.

Race comment: soon led, made rest, ridden over 1f out, just held on, driven out**WON

Cheltenham 15:20 Midnight Chase £350 win 14/1

Will relish the good ground which could be key today. Loves it round here, been really impressed with the way he travels and Tom Scudamore rides well from the front. Face’s tougher opposition then ever today, but I think he’s still improving and has shown a great attitude, should run a big race today.

Race comment: led to 12th, tracked leaders, pushed along 14th, lost place 16th, outpaced 4 out, no impression from next**5TH

Returns £2000

Bank = £6,175

2011-03-17T17:05:00.001Z

Update: quick update to say that I've had another £200 on Midnight strider at 8/1 now Erinjay is a NR.

2011-03-17T11:25:00.004Z

15:45 Towcester Gifted leader £400 win 7/1

Has shown signs of ability and has raced in much better company then he meets today, Not as bad a bare result suggested lto travelled well and given easy time on run in when jockey recognised he was beaten. Was outclassed two starts prior to that over 2m1 and 2m3. Ran well and finished one paced over 2 miles to finish 2nd at Haydock last Nov finding one too good in the persistent Rio Gael. Does finish one paced so today’s race could be well suited as I predict there will be a distinct lack of pace throughout, with the exception of l’eldorado who I expect to make all, L’eldorado won lto over 2m1 at Market Rasen, that was against very weak opposition (was unchallenged virtually the whole way) on a track suited too his running style. I think he need further then today’s trip and will get found out by the selection on the run in.
Kadoushki is not the horse he once was, only just held on in a very weak affair at Sandown lto so one to oppose for me, Can’t see anything else getting involved, and the trip, pace and circuit all look to be in the selections favour today.

Update: Ran a shocker!

Race comment: held up mid-division, one pace in 5th when jumped left 2 out**5th

18:15 Wolves Midnight Strider £250 10/1

Don’t normally get involved in these races but I can’t ignore the fact this one is 10/1.
Not straightforward by any means put does respond well when asked. Goes well round here won twice and placed twice in six starts two wins have come over today’s trip. Has looked a little awkward in bigger fields previously and will appreciate the smaller field here. His best runs have been when he gets the rail early, which today’s inside draw should help him achieve. Can forgive last two starts as he was ridden the wrong way,(held up instead of racing prominently and preferably needs to be covered up.) Dubai Miracle will have his supporters but has looked ungenuine and for me is better over shorter. Erinjay rate’s the main danger, but may prefer the pace a little stronger then he gets today.

Race comment:led, ridden over 2f out, headed 2f out, stayed on**2nd

Bank = £4,875

2011-03-16T12:04:00.004Z

I good day out at Cheltenham yesterday, but of course It could have been better.

The bookies won the battle yesterday but I will win the war.

Bank = £7,575

13:30 Cheltenham Major Malarkey £250 win 25/1

Trainer seems to have got this one right over fences now, travelled well when winning comfortably off the back of a break at Chepstow last November. That wasn’t a particularly strong race but what caught my eye the most was his impressive jumping. Forgiven for next run at Bangor put in a solid effort to finish 3rd, was under a penalty and turned out too quickly. Finished 1st in a competitive race over 3 miles at Newbury last Dec, again travelled and jumped well, put in a gutsy effort at the last and shaped like a stayer (which he is bred too be). Forgiven for his last run when pulled up at Haydock as was clearly unsuited by the testing conditions that day. A nice type and will appreciate the firmer ground here today, useful amateur jockey, is another plus.

Race comment:tracked leaders until unseated rider 3rd

14:05 Cheltenham Oscars well £400 win 4/1

Very impressive when winning lto beating useful types including Zaidpour. Should go a decent gallop in this which for me will only help the selection as I think he’ll find a lot of these out up the hill. The big question is whether he’ll cope with the quicker ground but looking at his action suggest to me he should. Very nice sort who looks to be improving and I’ll take him to put in a bold run today.

Race comment: raced keenly, held up mid-division on inside, headway 3 out, led going well approaching next, narrow advantage when blundered badly and headed last, not recover and no impression flat**4th

16:00 Cheltenham Tiger O’Toole £200 e/w 25/1

Improving son of Kings Theatre (Decent sire record at this track 15 winners from 89 runners) Good ground is key to this horse, gets that today and will appreciate the strong pace if covered up. Was impressed by his run when winning at Ascot lto, ran on strongly reeling in Lough derg to beat some useful types, the way he dealt with the run in that day suggests to me he’ll cope with the hill and the step up in trip today.
Good e/w claims.

Race comment:always behind, outpaced when blundered 3 out**20th

19:50 Kempton Sunset Kitty £400 win 9/4

Improving sort, caught the eye when she won well lto at Wolves despite having a bit to do on the turn, Lightly raced, should cope with the smaller field and 7f looks to be her trip, trainer tends to target these sorts at this time of year, the rest are all exposed, and for me this one looks well handicapped going into this.

Race comment:chased winner, ridden 2f out, soon lost 2nd, weakened over 1f out**4th

20:20 Kempton Colebrooke £300 win 3/1

Twin Soul looks to be the main danger, but for me she has been be flattered by her form so far as the her last two races were weak affairs, and the extra 6 lbs could find her out, seemingly improving but one to oppose for me. I’m going with the Johnson runner Colebrooke, far from disgraced in last two outings off the back of a break unexposed at this trip and improving, may try to set a muddling pace which with his running style could be an advantage.

Race comment: chased leader until 9f out, settled in 3rd, ridden to dispute 2nd from 2f out, upsides and every chance 1f out, one pace in 3rd final 110 yards**3rd

Sunset Kitty + Colebrooke £100 Double

Bank £5,725

Update: The last two days have been brutal with me dropping £3650 almost half my bank, I always go in heavy at the festival and have done well by it in the past but clearly I have made some serious errors of judgement so far this year. What was particularly frustrating were the two poor runs tonight at Kempton. However i'm not one for hard luck stories and i'm far from done yet, may take a break tommorow as i've had thorough look through the cards and nothing stands out yet.

2011-03-15T09:26:00.007Z

Here we go then, off to Cheltenham this morning, all preperatiions are in place so now it's just a case of getting there, enjoying a good few drinks the forcast good weather and the top class racing.
These are the one's i'll be backing today.
Again apologies for the lack off write up's but this morning has been hectic and I've got to dash off soon.

Good luck to everyone who's playing today.

Bank = £9,375

13:30 Recession proof £350 win @ 9/1

Race comment:tracked leaders on inside, lost place 3 out, soon ridden, kept on same pace**5th

Magans Star £300 win @ 18/1

Race comment:tracked leader, led narrowly after 1st, headed 3rd, with leader, led again briefly before 3 out, soon ridden and weakened**13th

14:40 The Rainbow Hunter £250 win @ 25/1

Race comment:mid-division, ridden and weakened 4 out**12th

Slippers percy £200 win @ 50/1

Race comment:mid-division, hampered 3rd, blundered 12th, behind from next, tailed off when pulled up before 3 out

15:20 Oscar Whisky £350 win @ 9/1

Race comment: tracked leaders, hit 2nd and 3rd, led narrowly 2 out, soon ridden and headed, demoted to 3rd last, stayed on same pace, no impression on front pair **3rd

16:00 Maljimar £350 win @ 11/2

Race comment: held up behind, headway and in touch 24th, led 3 out, ridden and headed last, kept on same pace under pressure flat**4th

Bank = £7,575

2011-03-14T10:05:00.002Z

A quick update to say I decided to take a break last week after a turbulant start to the month. I spent the time preparing for the festival and will hopefully cash in as a result!, It's going to be a challenging few days as i'm likely to be turning over around 5k.

Regards,

Roy

2011-03-05T12:07:00.002Z

No time for a write up but I like the look of these two.

Bank £6,775

Kelso 15:05 Pokfulham £400 win 9/2

Race comment: held up in mid-division, headway approaching 4 out, soon chasing leaders, led after last, hard ridden, stayed on well**WON

Kempton 16:00 Trooper Clarence £400 win 2/1

Race comment:prominent, settled in 3rd from 2nd, closed 7th, challenging when left in lead 4 out, drew clear from 2 out, eased towards finish**WON

Returns: £3,400

Bank = £9,375

2011-03-03T12:23:00.002Z

Very busy today, I’m off to Southwell so I’ll have to keep the write up’s brief.

Bank = £8,075

14:10 Southwell Unwrapit £500 win 4/1

Believe her to have ability for reasons outlined in my post when I backed her a couple of weeks ago. Keeping the faith with this one, Still believe She’s well handicapped and could be right their in this company, Tendency to hang but get’s the headgear fitted for first time today and small field is also a bonus.

Race comment:with winner, taken to race wide after 2f, ridden over 2f out, kept on one pace and lost 2nd inside final furlong**3RD

14:40 SouthwellNew Latin £400 win 11/4

In a race lacking any strength and depth, for me this one looks a far better type then the rest. Was impressed with his attitude Lto and the switch to 7f should suit. Fully expect this one to win well for new yard.

Race comment: pressed winner until ridden 3f out, switched left over 2f out, soon no impression, just held on to 2nd:2ND

16:40 Southwell Final Salute £400 win 4/1

Goes well round here and won well over c+d last month
Attrition will have his supporters after winning over c+d last month, flattered by that form as he had an easy time of it and the step up in class should find him out, Relatively unexposed and should make all but i'll take the selection who looks a better type to reel in attrition on the home straight.

Race comment: tracked leader until over 3f out, ridden and hung right 3f out, kept on one pace**5TH

Bank = £6,775

2011-03-02T11:19:00.006Z

A frustating week so far, but I'm taking these two to reline the pockets today.

Bank £8,875

Wolverhampton 17:30 Khanivorous £400 win 8/1

Showed a good attitude to win a maiden over 7f at Kempton on third start back in Nov 09, that wasn’t a particularly strong race, however He caught the eye on that occasion as he looked to have plenty of scope to improve physically. Reappeared last December over 8f, shaped as if needing the run but certainly looked to have put on physical improvement. 1st time visor looked to have sharpened him up, when putting in a good effort finishing 1 ¾ lengths back to the useful Chilli Green over 1 mile at Kempton back in January, travelled strongly and faded in the final furlong, Returned to 7f lto at Southwell to finish 4 ¼ lengths back, travelled well but looked unsuited to the surface. Looks like a fairly decent type and for me 7 furlongs is his distance, yard does well at this time of year and is currently going well, Mathew Davis know's his way round here and the booking by connections is significant. Plenty of pace anticipated pace which I think will suit if he gets a position just behind the leaders, One or two other interesting runners, Coolminx has good turf form but holds plenty of question marks coming into this and is probably better suited to 6f.. Avonrose has shown ability, but placed on last five starts and looks to have a poor attitude and I think she’s outclassed. The selection looks relatively unexposed and appears to have been aimed at this race today, so I fully expect a bold bid.

Update:mid-division, driven 3f out, ridden over 1f out, stayed on under pressure on outside to chase leaders inside final furlong**4TH

Kempton 18:40 Jungle Bay £400 win 7/1

Not usually a race I’d get involved in but I’ve been following this one closely, and I’m convinced he will win races this year.Brought over from France last December and is well thought of by connections. Has good form in France, put in decent efforts and times against better types then he meets today, mostly racing over 1 mile. Was a little unsettled on first two starts for new yard. Showed he was acclimatising when finishing 1 ¼ lengths back to Rubenstar over 7f at lingfield last month, that was despite being badly hampered and getting pushed out slightly on the final turn. He then finished 1 3/4 lengths back lto to the useful Norville over 6f despite a poor position getting caught up on the rail, I think he found Lingfield a little on the sharp side. Should be in no danger of getting outpaced in this company and if produced earlier then on previous occasions he’ll make full use of the run in here at Kempton. A nice type with a good pedigree this looks an excellent opportunity.

Update:reared start, in touch, pushed along halfway, hung right over 2f out, weakened soon after**8th

Bank = £8,075

2011-03-01T11:54:00.002Z

Bank = £9,275

Struggling to find anything in the way of betting opportunities of late.

Found one for today.

15:10 Lingfield Epsom Salts £400 win 5/1

Stays 2miles and handles the surface well. shaped as if needing the run Lto finishing 4 lengths back over 10f. Shrewd trainer who knows how to place his horses looks to have found him a good opportunity as he should appreciate a predicted steady pace and the smaller field here today, the last run having him ready for today’s step up in trip. Jockey take’s off 5lbs and works well with the trainer. On best form should comfortably beat the rest of these the main danger for me being Satwa Gold, I’ll oppose him today as he’s never shown his best at Lingfiled and has looked a little out of sorts on last few runs.
Got the 5/1 earlier, money has come in, but noticed Hugh Taylor has also put it up!

Update: Frustating day, despite travelling the strongest, the selection was given a very poor ride denying it a way through.

Race comment:held up in touch in rear, going well when nowhere to go over 1f out, switched right inside final furlong, ridden and ran on, not reach leaders**3RD

Bank = £8,875

2011-02-25T10:19:00.006Z

Back = £9,925

Warwick 15:15 Tricky Tree £400 win 3/1

A nice looking sort who found his feet over hurdles winning impressively by 10 lengths at Huntington lto. Travelled and jumped really well that day putting his rivals to the sword including the useful and well treated Chilli Rose. That race was run in good time in testing conditions so today’s ground shouldn’t be a problem. Can’t see them going a fast pace which shouldn’t be a problem as I expect him to race prominently which could be an advantage round here in this company. For me Baseford Bob will be the main danger and will have his supporters (currently odds on), a nice type he ran well to finish 1 ½ lengths back to the useful King of the Knight at Doncaster lto. Watching his action I still think he could do with firmer ground then he gets today to produce his best. Also I think he may struggle with the lack of pace, and is more suited to a faster track. So I’ll take the selection who looks well handicapped to win this well.

Update: Ran well enough eventually getting beaten by 1/2 a length.

Race comment: tracked leading pair, ridden to challenge 3 out, led before next, hard pressed last, headed narrowly flat, kept on until no extra near finish**2ND

16:25 Warwick Federstar £250 win 14/1

A horse not without its problems but recovered from injury to enjoy further success over hurdles, including notching up 3 handicap wins in a row last year
Was first sent novice chasing In Oct last year, given an easy time first start over fences. He then appreciated the step up in trip to put in a decent effort finishing 6 lengths to some fairly useful sorts at Uttox in conditions similar to todays. Raced in two handicaps at Aintree and Newbury thereafter, outpaced both time’s forcing him into jumping errors. (Fell at Newbury) got his confidence back when returning to Warwick over hurdles. Then finished 21 lengths back to the improving three chords Lto again outpaced causing a jumping error.
Well thought of by the trainer who has always thought of him as a potentially decent chaser, has been let down by jumping and can get easily outpaced. But I think connections could have found him the ideal race today. Should appreciate the easier fences, here, the predicted slow pace and the return to small field. Should cope well with what could become testing conditions, the test of stamina playing to his strengths as he’s slightly one paced. Ideally he needs to race out wide to make the most of his galloping stride on this sharp track, Jimmy Derham who takes of 3lbs, knows how to ride this one.
Big doubts over the rest who have shown modest form in very weak races with the exception of Tafika who showed he has stamina and jumped well to win lto at Leicester Flattered by that that form as that was very poor race and I think he’ll find this much tougher also and I think he’s better going right handed so one to oppose for me. I’ll take the selection to put in bold effort to reward connections for their persistence.

Update:I won't be backing this one again.

Race comment:disputed 2nd on inside, lost place briefly 10th, stumbled 12th, outpaced 4 out, ridden to chase leading pair after next, kept on same pace under pressure from 2 out, no impression**3RD

Bank = £9,275

2011-02-24T10:40:00.003Z

One bet today

Bank = £10,325

14:00 Huntington Dream Function £400 win 5/2

Full sister to Captain Chris, I was impressed seeing this one on her hurdling debut at Wincanton lto, 2nd to the useful looking and well supported favourite way back when, travelled strongly throughout and but for a mistake at the last would have been right there at the finish. Ground and trip today are ideal. The main danger for me will be Line freedom well bred and clearly has ability. Won impressively over 2 miles at towcester on hurdling debut has since made jumping errors on last two starts when being upped in trip. For me the selection looks a better type and has shown a better attitude and I expect she will get off the mark today.

Update:Nodded badley on landing and looked as though something was amiss so rightly was pulled up.

Race comment: in touch, tracked clear leader 3rd, close up 4th, blundered and lost place 6th, not recover and soon behind, no danger after and eased, tailed off.

Bank = £9,925

2011-02-23T11:22:00.004Z

Nothing has caught since my last post, but I have found one bet for today.

Bank = £10,725

Kempton 20:05 Liberty Lady £200 e/w 25/1

Not straightforward by any means this daughter of Statue of Liberty fits the profile of a horse who’s slow to mature, lightly raced as a 2yo she trained on to put in some decent efforts during last years campaign winning twice over 5 furlongs albeit in fairly weak races. Always shaping as if the further trip would suit, showed a good attitude to win over 6f at Folkestone last August despite finding herself short of room. Was then entered against some fairly useful sorts over 6f at Newmarket last september, put in a good effort, finishing 3 1/4 lengths back in 6th despite racing a little freely in places. Not seen since but has proven to go well fresh and the trainer can “ready one”. Can see them going a reasonably steady pace here which should suit as she has been a little outpaced in the past, Needs to be produced late and if brought across early to race covered up she should be able to get a good position amongst these, the sharp nature of the track very much suited to her running style. This is also a reason to note the booking of Andrea atzeni who is especially good at riding a finish and knows his way round here, he should be able to get the best out of what can be a difficult ride. The selection looks a decent type and has a very respectable win + place record of 46% , that coupled with a shrewd trainer who can who knows how to place his horses, I think she can get in the mix here and at the price is worth some serious e/w interest.

Update: Put in a good effort and shaped as if needing the run, I will keep an eye on her as fully expect to recoup losses with this one.

Race comment:chased leaders, effort towards inside to chase leaders and driven over 1f out, faded inside final furlong**6TH

Bank = £10,325

2011-02-18T12:03:00.020Z

One bet today.

Bank = £10,975

Wolverhampton 20:05 Unwrapit £250 win 5/1

A well bred filly, broke and travelled well eventually finishing well beaten coming back off a break over c+d on her all weather debut last month, shaped as if needing the run that day. Looked uncomfortable on the fibresand lto, broke and travelled well until hanging badly right 2 furlongs out losing her chance as a result,despite this she managed to finish 1 ¼ lengths back from the winner. 7f look's to be her trip and I also think today's bigger field should help to keep her focused (looked a little keen previously). The main danger for me will be Strictly Pink who put in a good effort to narrowly miss out to the useful looking Instance over 6f at Kempton last October. Looked a little reluctant to get here head in front when finding one too good again in Magi Stella over 6f here when sent off odd’s on lto. On the back of those efforts I’m not convinced the step up to 7f is the right one especially as she’s likely to try and set the pace,Looked a little ungenuine lto and coming back from a break is one to oppose for me. Plenty of doubts over the rest so I’ll take the selection looks a handy enough type and is potenitially well handicapped.

Race comment:soon led, headed well over 1f out, slightly impeded and switched right over 1f out, hung left inside final furlong, no chance with winner, lost 2nd close home:**3RD

Bank £10,725

2011-02-17T09:44:00.005Z

Bank = £11,225

One bet today.

14:00 Ffos Las Grey Gold £250 win 10/1

Don’t have a lot of time so have to keep this brief.

Well thought of by connections, put in a good effort to finish 11 ½ lengths back over 2 miles at Towcester last December. Let down slightly by jumping that day, Absolutely hosed up lto at Hereford in testing conditions was impressed with that run, jumping had also improved. Shaped on both occasions as though a step up in trip would suit. I’d like to see him covered up today as I think the pace could be strong. Trainer is going well, the selection looks like a nice type with a good action. Other have obvious claims but I think this one is improving well and looks to be well in here, at the price a solid e/w opportunity but as usual i'm on to win.

Race comment: mid-division, headway 3 out, hit 2 out, weakened next**4th

Bank = £10,975

2011-02-16T12:56:00.002Z

Bank = £12,125

15:50 Musselburgh Pokfulham £400 win 9/2

I was impressed with his attitude when winning a seller over 2 miles here last month, 1st time visor bringing about considerable improvement. Put in another game effort to finish 3 lengths back finishing a creditable second to the useful Santa’s son when stepped up to 2m4 here lto. Travelled and jumped well on both occasions. Needs a commanding ride so good to see Graham Lee back on board. Return to 2 miles and smaller field should suit. Should get the steady pace he needs today. For me Dontpaytheferryman rates as the main danger, Impressive on the a/w this winter and ran well to finish 2 ¼ lengths back to the useful Eradicate in the Scottish county hurdle last Feb. Slightly flattered by that as Eradicate wasn’t at his best that day(ground conditions weren’t ideal, and back fresh after a wind operation.) Hurdles races he has won (last one Nov 09) have looked distinctly average. I think he could also do with a stronger pace then the one predicted today. So is one to oppose for me.
The rest have plenty of doubts for me so I’ll take the selection to win this well.

Update:Dontpaytheferryman wins after a great move off the bend from Paul Gallagher.

Race comment:tracked winner, ridden before last, kept on same pace, always well held**2nd

15:20 Musselburgh Miereveld £500 win 11/4

Finished 21 lengths 2nd to Utravox over this trip at Towcester on second start over hurdles, clearly unsuited by the testing conditions that day and got caught out by the run in. Jumped well and put in a good effort to finish 4 ¾ back over 2m1 at Doncaster lto. Looked uncomfortable in the large field that day and for me his running style will be better suited to this track. Return to 2 miles in this company will suit, looks to be improving and certainly looks a better type then his rivals today. Really can’t see anything else getting into this. Banker bet for me.

Update:Didn't show much enthusiasm today.

Race comment:chased leaders, lost place before 4th, soon reminders, chased winner after 4 out, ridden and not fluent 2 out, soon no impression**2nd

Bank = £11,225

2011-02-15T09:46:00.003Z

Nothing too appealing today.

One bet

Bank = £12,325

14:40 Newcastle Dallas Doll £200 win 8/1

Interesting to see this one sent here today. A half sister to supreme novice winner Sausalito bay. Should act on today’s ground, stayed on to finish 21 lengths back in a fairly decent bumper at fairyhouse over 2 miles lto. That was her first time out under rules and looked to be nothing more then a schooling exercise. Today see’s her stepped up in trip, 6f seem's a rather large step up on only her second outing but her pedigree suggests she may appreciate this distance, also the trainer is shrewd and like’s to operate in this way, which leads me to think she could be well placed in what is a weak race. Added experience of Andrew lynch who works well with the trainer is also worth noting.

Race comment:held up in rear, ridden and weakened before 3 out, fell next**lost

Bank = £12,125

2011-02-14T10:13:00.003Z

One bet today

Bank = £11,325

16:00 Plumpton Pascha bere £400 win 5/2

Pascha bere £400 win 5/2

Trainer is in good form and his runners at Plumpton command respect. A nice type and useful over hurdles, 2 miles certainly looks to be his trip but in this company the extra furlong shouldn’t pose a problem. Improved markedly when fitted with cheeckpieces last 3 outings and 1st time visor should help keep him focused in this small field. Travels well which I think can help in this field as if attempting to make all I can see him outpacing his rivals. A little on the fragile side but goes well fresh and I expect stable will have him well prepped for chasing debut. Main danger for me will be Keki buku, made a good start over fences and will appreciate the cut in the ground. His jumping hasn’t been the tidiest however and for me he’s more comfortable going right handed. I also think he now needs further then this, and if sending him off to keep up with the selection can only help as pascha bear is the stronger travelling of the two. Looks a chasing type and I’ll take him to win this comfortably as a confidence booster before being sent to Cheltenham (Arkle).

Update: Keki buku fell at the 3rd, selection went on to win by 18 lengths.

Race comment:chased leader, led approaching 2nd, joined bypassing normal 4 out, briefly headed after next, clear advantage before 2 out, easily**WON

Returns £1000

Bank = £12,325

2011-02-11T11:26:00.004Z

One bet today.

Bank= £11,525

13:45 Southwell Diamond sunrise £200 win 11/1

Took to the surface when finishing 5th 4 1/4 lengths back to Monsieur Jamie over 5f last November. Kept on well over 7f at wolves finishing 2 1/2 lengths behind the winner lto, was unable to get a good position from a tough draw in that race, raced keenly and I thought she was held up for to long, I think 6 furlongs will suit her at this track and I’d like to see her allowed to run up with the pace today especially as it looks to be a strong one.
Varrazano could threaten, won over c+d lto, I wasn’t overly impressed with that as it was a poor race and she looked awkward at times. I also think to progress she’ll need further then this trip and on hadicap debut is one to oppose for me. Doubts over the rest I’ll take the selection who looks a decent enough sort, potentially well handicapped and can continue her improvement with a big run today.

Update:Never got going, finished last.

Race comment:aced wide tracked leaders, ridden to chase leader over 2f out until over 1f out, soon weakened.

Bank = £11,325

2011-02-09T11:48:00.003Z

Bank = £11,725

Lingfield 16:10 Greenhead high £200 win 8/1

Caught the eye when finishing 5 ¼ lengths to fairly useful Loki’s revenge over c+d back in December, was forced to change direction coming off the final turn and yet made up ground with the Jockey going easy recognising he was beaten. He then showed a good attitude to win an average maiden at Kempton over today’s distance. Can forgive his last run over this c+d, didn’t get a good position and again was blocked coming out of the final turn, ran on to finish strongly finishing 2 lengths back from the winner, again the jockey not giving him a hard time. Mark Johnson’s yard are in good form at the moment and Joe le taxi is clearly improving and rates as the main danger. Won last two starts well and now gets an 11 lb hike. Both wins were against very poor opposition however and I’m slightly concerned he may be unsuited to the short run in. Should attempt to make all and being drawn next to Greenhead high can only help as the selection will appreciate the tow. Another danger could be Chevise who has won a couple of very weak claimers on his last two outings, for me that form flattered him and back up in trip I think he’ll find it tough in this company so one to oppose for me. I believe the selection is improving and is potentially well handicapped going into this. I’d like to see him produced slightly earlier then in his past two races at this track because with a predicted decent pace being set providing he has a clear passage and avoidance of the far rail coming off the final turn he can finish well to win.

Update: Chevise ran well to win leaving the selection 1 length back in 3rd.

Race comment: tracked leader, ridden to lead over 1f out, headed inside final furlong, lost 2nd post**3rd

Bank = £11,525

2011-02-08T11:29:00.014Z

Bank £10,725

Southwell 16:45 Mush Mir £200 win 11/2

Proving a little tricky to get right, ran a decent race when fitted with blinkers for the first time over this trip at lingfield. Never got going when stepped back in trip in an apprentice handicap. Finished 5th lto when returning to this trip hampered coming off the final bend. In his last two races he’s been guilty of burning up too much energy early on, looks vulnerable to strong hold up performers which we don’t appear to have here, plus a prominent position comes at an advantage at this track. The booking of Joe Fanning who works well with the trainer looks interesting. He does well riding these types and I think he may decide to change tactics slightly sitting the selection behind the front 2. Clues in his pedigree suggest he’ll take to the surface. Add to that the both the jockey and trainers decent record at the track and for me this one looks worth a bet. The main danger for me will be Mediterranean sea, interesting to see if this one’s held up today as I’d prefer to see him race up front as he did when winning two races last February one of those being over course and distance, hasn’t looked genuine recently, looks to be reluctant to get her head in front, thoroughly exposed I think she’ll find it tough to win off this mark. The rest have plenty of doubts for me, so I’ll take mush Mir to get it right this time.

Update:

Race comment: tracked leader, led 3f out, edged left and headed narrowly over 1f out, driven to lead again inside final furlong, asserted near finish**WON

Returns £1,300

Dipidy doo dah 15:05 £300 win 7/1

A useful looking sort and warming to her task over hurdles on previous two outings. Stayed on well to finish 9 ½ lengths back to Pilgreen in a hot maiden contest over two miles back in December. Finished 5th here lto on handicap debut. Didn’t get the smoothest of passages through the field so can be forgiven for that run. Jockey takes off 7 lbs and I believe this further trip will be ideal, if getting a decent tow she can be in the mix. No doubt connections are expecting a big run from the improving Silver Roque who ran a good race at Wincanton lto to finish 3rd to a couple of decent types. That race was run in a decent time and he travelled well, ending one paced and looking as though a step up was needed. I think this may be a little soon and I’m not convinced he’ll be suited to this track, unexposed and respected but one to oppose for me. The magic bishop is also worth a mention finished 1st lto at Newcastle, looks handy enough for this track but that was a hard race, that together with the 9lb rise and the step up in trip means I’ll oppose him today. Big doubts over the rest and at a price this looks a solid bet.

Was 9’s on betfair last night, I managed to get on at 7/1 this morning, support this morning has brought it into 9/2 with some firms at the time of writing,

Update: The Magic Bishop stayed on well to win and is one to keep an eye on. Silver Roque travelled well to finish second and the selection finished 4th.

Race comment:held up towards rear, headway 7th, chased leading duo after 3 out, hit 2 out, one pace and no impression when hit last, weakened to 4th final 100 yards**4th

Bank = £11,725

2011-02-07T11:25:00.006Z

After a weekend of no betting opportunities I like the look of a couple today.

Bank = £10,325

14:25 Lingfield

Not til Monday £400 win 2/1

Showed good pace to comfortably finish 10 lengths clear on heavy ground at Plumpton Lto looks to be improving, has made the frame on all 3 starts over hurdles and should be capable of the step up in trip. Creswell crusader looks the main danger, ran a couple of good races, one to win at Chepstow on heavy ground and one to finish 2nd at Warwick lto, makes his hurdling debut today and should get the trip but I’ve concerns that he may not appreciate the smaller field and prefer to see how he handles the jumps today. For me the selection looks a better sort and has the added experience of Timmy Murphy on board. With big question marks over the rest I think the selection is well handicapped in this company and I’ll take him to race up with the pace and draw clear.

Update:

Race comment: led at decent pace, narrowly headed 3 out, stayed challenging, driven to slight lead 2 out, kept narrow advantage under strong pressure, in command flat, stayed on well, driven out##WON

Returns: £800

16:45 Lingfield

Kalamill £400 win 10/3

Kalamill has shown signs of ability and is well thought of by connections, he finished a decent second at Fontwell back in October, was then dropped straight into a grade 2 event at Cheltenham and a highly competitive grade 1 at Chepstow. Outclassed both times but back in this company he should be comfortably beating his rivals. Can’t see the pace being particularly strong which should suit the selection and with his running style I think he could go well round here. The main danger for me is Top smart who finished 2nd in a very average race at Folkestone lto when drawing well clear of the field with Oscar Prairie on fairly testing ground. That form was suspect however with Top smart being virtually unchallenged for the whole race, and finishing well beaten by the odds on shot Oscar Prairie who has looked distinctly average on his subsequent two outings. Poor recent stable form also has to be taken into account. I think he may also find this track a little on the sharp side and possibly needs further still. Can’t see anything else getting into this, and I’ll take the well bred Kalamill to win this well.

Update: Top smart put in a good effort to win.

Race comment: held up in touch, headway to chase leading pair 7th, went 2nd going well on long run to 2 out, driven and tried to challenge between last 2, no extra and held flat## 2nd

Bank £10,725

2011-02-04T11:33:00.007Z

Bank = £10,525

One bet today

At the price I’m with Jamie Osborne’s Revolutionary. The trainer does well with 3yo’s here and has dropped the selection into a fairly modest looking handicap. After getting slightly outpaced over a mile here lto, watching him I thought the step up to 1m2 should suit. I’m going to oppose George Woolf who finished well over c+d lto but I thought he could have done with a slower pace that day which he’s unlikely to get today he also looked a little one paced and previously his attitude hasn’t been the best.
Lough corrib looks interesting on his handicap debut showed signs of ability in September and with his pedigree he has to be respected but plenty of question marks and I’d prefer to watch how he handles this race today.

Lingfield 16:35

Revolutionary £200 win 5/1

Update: George Woolf does the business

Race comment: held up in touch, driven to challenge over 1f out, soon weakened ** 4th

Bank = £10,325

2011-02-03T11:07:00.003Z

First entry on the blog so here's hoping for a good start in my mission to collect 20 large from the satchel boys by the end of the flat season 2011.

Starting bank = £10,000

Betting at £100 a point.

One bet today.

Southwell 14:30

Ana Emarati £300 win 7/4

Liked the look of this one when showing a good attitude to finish 1 length to the useful looking Materialism over 7 furlongs at Lingfield Lto. This is a weaker race and it’s interesting to see the switch to fibresand, Connections will be looking to recoup their losses and theirs enough in his pedigree to suggest he’ll take to the surface. If he breaks well to race prominently throughout he can overcome his rivals, the main one being for me Laugh or cry who ran an okay race over course and distance lto but I’d prefer to see him drawn closer to the rail and for me the selection looks a better type and I’ll take him to win with a few pounds in hand today.

Update:

A good start,

Race comment: made all, shaken up 2f out, pushed clear final furlong, unchallenged ** WON

Returns £825

Bank = £10,525