Cheltenham - Day Four: Friday 16th March 2012

The final Cheltenham curtain is drawing ever nearer and with every winner, every fairytale, story and emotion, whilst every winner is celebrated, comes the knowledge that with every rush of adrenaline it’ll be a whole twelve months before we are back again.

Friday is often the most difficult day of the festival, with the blue ribbon event, the Gold Cup, not being my best betting race. The County Hurdle and the Martin Pipe have large fields with plenty of handicap plots, and could be something of the unknown.

The Triumph Hurdle was a terrific race last year when it featured Grandouet, Zarkander, Unaccompanied, Third Intention and Molotof. This year’s race looks wide open, and with no obvious winner on paper, we must delve deeper into the formbook.

Saddlers Risk leapt to favouritism after a Kempton novice hurdle win in January but was easily dispatched by Cheltenham novice hurdle winner and subsequent Adonis Hurdle winner Baby Mix. Baby Mix was himself soundly beaten when running against Pearl Swan and Grumeti in the Triumph Hurdle trial at Cheltenham towards the back end of January. Further down the field Hollow Tree for the Donald McCain stable was soundly beaten and can be overlooked as well. Pearl Swan won the race, but caused interference and lost the race in the stewards room to GRUMETI for the Alan King stable.

He went on to frank the form with a tough, gritty defeat of Dodging Bullets at Kempton in the Dovecote Hurdle and he looks to have the pick of the form. His only defeat came when falling when 10 lengths clear in a decent looking Newbury juvenile hurdle. He is the pick of the British runners in my view.

The last Irish winner was in 1994, and with no powerful claims, it rests with Gordon Elliot and SHADOW CATCHER to offer the each way value. He ran a terrific race when second behind fellow contender Hisaabat in the Sprint Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown, and would have won if held up, hitting the front too soon. With Paul Carberry on board (there is no better jockey when it comes to hold up tactics) he may provide an upset.

The County Hurdle is one of the most notoriously difficult handicap hurdles of the season, let alone the festival, and has had some memorable finishes, Final Approach beating Get Me Out of Here on the line, in a thriller last year. The spoils could remain with the Irish with the Jessica Harrington trained CITIZENSHIP looking to have excellent claims. He creeps in at the bottom of the weights and has a great chance.

A lively outsider could be LOCAL HERO for the modest Steve Gollings yard, and it comes back to the Triumph Hurdle form from last year. He was a 20/1 outsider but ran very gamely to finish eight, only beaten by ten lengths, behind subsequent Grade 1 horses. He ran with credit on his comeback at Kelso behind subsequent Neptune Hurdle winner Simonsig, his first run of the season, and that should have brought him on no end for a spring campaign, starting here.

The Albert Bartlett Hurdle is for novices over the three miles on the new course, and has been a great betting heat for punters. I have already dipped my toe in the ante post pool, and have invested on Mount Belbuben, Sea of Thunder and Boston Bob at significantly bigger prices, and the value seems to have dried up. Willie Mullins has indicated that BOSTON BOB could be one of the horses of a lifetime and he has done nothing but progress this season. The strapping seven year old looks to be a potential Gold Cup horse but has already shown tremendous ability over hurdles, winning consecutive Grade 2’s on good and heavy ground. He has had the beating of his only main dangers and, barring accidents, should win this. Sea of Thunder could chase him home.

The Gold Cup requires no build up and is the contest that the racing world has been waiting for. Kauto Star, “King Kauto”, has passed all fitness tests and will run, aiming to break yet another record. He is the only horse to regain the Gold Cup, and will go up against last years winner Long Run who has finished second behind Kauto twice, in the Betfair Chase and the King George.

The value looks to be in the betting without the front two, and WHAT A FRIEND makes plenty of appeal. A narrow fourth last year, he has been brought along well, finishing four lengths behind Long Run in the Denman Chase last month. He should appreciate the better ground and, although I hope Kauto wins, I can’t back him, and hope to cheer What a Friend on into a place.

The Foxhunters race is somewhat an afterthought and the phrase ‘After the Lord Mayor’s Show’ springs to mind. With two significant absentees in Backstage and Baby Run, the race looks wide open, but the classy CHAPOTURGEON could be the most likely winner. The eight year old ticks all boxes from a trends perspective, and was impressive when beating current favourite Cloudy Lane at Newbury in January after a year off. He is entitled to improve and won the Jewson Novice Chase at the festival three years ago, and is clearly a good horse. MERCHANT ROYAL was impressive for the Dermot Weld stable when winning a three mile hunter chase at Thurles on soft ground, and travelled very impressively. There could be more improvement to come and he is respected.

The Martin Pipe Conditional Handicap Hurdle was won last year in impressive fashion by subsequent Jewson Chase winner Sir Des Champs. A horse already on a promising road is EMPIRE LEVANT from the Paul Nicholls stable. He got within 6 lengths of eventual Champion Hurdle winner Rock on Ruby in a listed hurdle at Newbury, and a line can be written through the Betfair Hurdle, with the slow pace not suiting. Another with a strong chance is TONER D’OUDARIES for Gigginstown Stud and Gordon Elliot. He has been aimed at the festival for a long time, and has been in good heart this season, running behind Steps to Freedom, Unaccompanied, Jetson and Sailors Warn, in a slow steady build-up.

The Johnny Henderson Grand Annual is the final swansong for the 2012 Cheltenham Festival, and is usually the ‘death or glory’ moment for punters chasing the week long losses. This get out of jail opportunity consists of a twenty-one runner handicap chase over the extended two miles. Nicky Henderson, after whose late father the race is named, has had a record breaking Cheltenham so far and he has been plotting this race for months.

Anquetta has Andrew Tinkler on board, and was impressive in a Listed Handicap Chase at Ascot. He has since lost his way though, falling in his subsequent run, and finishing last of ten in a valuable chase at Doncaster and can be overlooked. Novice chaser Eradicate finished his hurdling campaign with a Grade 3 win at Haydock, and in novice chases, has two wins and a nose defeat.

Leading jockey Barry Geraghty has opted for Tanks for That, and he looked to have a bright season on the cards with a win at the Cheltenham Open Meeting in a valuable seventeen runner handicap chase. He has struggled since the 9lb hike in the weights, and prefers running fresh.

Kid Cassidy has AP on board, chosen ahead of Bellvano, but both look poorly handicapped. FRENCH OPERA looks to be on his way back, since returning behind Sprinter Sacre in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury. French Opera is a Grade 2 winning chaser and has a good record at Cheltenham, including two victories. He looks very interesting.

The other fancy is TARA ROYAL for Donald McCain. The stable landed a touch when winning the Scottish Champion Chase with him at Musselburgh and he seemed to appreciate the strong pace and good ground, both of which he will find to his liking at Cheltenham. Ultimate finished down the field that day, and now has a 6lb swing, but the Brian Ellison charge could be out of his depth here.

Tara Royal and French Opera are the two that appeal at the prices.

1.30 Grumeti (Ew) & Shadow Catcher (Ew)
2.05 Citizenship & Local Hero (Ew)
2.40 Boston Bob (Nap)
3.20 What a Friend (Betting without Long Run/Kauto EW)
4.00 Chapoturgeon & Merchant Royal (Ew)
4.40 Toner D’oudaries (Ew) & Empire Levant (Ew)
5.15 French Opera (Ew) & Tara Royal (Ew)

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Cheltenham Day Three - Thursday 15th March 2012

Cheltenham Day Three, and the hangovers have already set in, and are in direct proportion to the volume of losers totalled, and Guinness consumed. The bookmakers after day one have started off well, with Hurricane Fly beaten in the Champion Hurdle, as well as good results for those at the other side of the rails in the Supreme Novices and the JLT Handicap Chase.

The opening race is the Nap of Day Three and SIR DES CHAMPS for my money is an absolute banker. I have been backing this horse for the Jewson Novices Chase for the best part of four months. He looked smart over hurdles, and won the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival under Emit Mullins. He was seemingly swept off his feet by the early pace, but stayed on well, to win comfortably, showing great resilience and tenacity. Since imported from France he is unbeaten in five starts, including last time out winning a 2 miles 5 furlongs Grade 2 novices chase on soft ground. The better ground should see further improvement, and given he has course form, he should have the beating of much supposed inferior rivals in Peddlers Cross, For Non Stop and Champion Court.

In the Pertemps Final, it could be worth taking a chance on CAPE TRIBULATION for the Malcolm Jefferson yard. The yard hasn’t been in the greatest patch of form but they have booked Denis O’ Regan to be on board, and he on the other hand is. The eight year old made plenty of mistakes in some decent handicap chases this season, and has looked far better when switching back to hurdles. He ran a game fourth last time out behind Grand Vision at Haydock over 2 miles 5 furlongs, and although he was beaten 21 lengths, he ran on well towards the finish. Fifth that day was Alfie Sherrin, who won the JLT Handicap on Day One, beating a decent field, and further franks the form. He is top rated on Racing Post Ratings and should be a decent price, and definitely an each way player.

The Ryanair Chase looks to be one of the most open renewals for years, and is seen in the betting, with Riverside Theatre the 5/1 favourite. Reigning champion Albertas Run looks set to win three in a row, but given he hasn’t run since Aintree in October, has to be opposed. Poquelin has course form, winning five times, and a good second last time out around course and distance, not to mention respect for Somersby, Kalahari King and course and distance winner this time last year Noble Prince. That being said, the best bet looks to be MEDERMIT, a horse with consistent and tough performances, as well as course form around Cheltenham. Since switching to chasing, he has yet to finish worse than fourth, and that was in a good renewal in last years Arkle. Since then he has finished 2-1-3-2-2 and has been running in Graded Company or in class one handicaps. The trip should suit and given the tenacity of this striking grey, at the prices, he is terrific value.

Big Bucks is one of the most amazing racehorses I have ever had the privilege to witness, and without reasoning or rhetoric, he will win his record breaking fourth World Hurdle.

The two remaining handicaps look to be difficult nuts to crack, and the Byrne Group Plate and the Kim Muir and usually races that are associated with the Pipe stable, and they have leading players in both races, and have to be respected, with Junior for the stable winning the Kim Muir last year, when punted off the boards to land a touch.

They have Dan Breen and the current favourite Salut Flo in the race, and Salut Flo has been backed no end in the last few weeks, to the point where he is the 9/2 ante post favourite. Much in a similar fashion to The Package who finished fourth in the JLT Handicap Chase, he returns from a lay off, and could be out of the grip of the handicapper. That being said, I like the look of DIVERS for the Ferdy Murphy yard,, and has the all important course and distance form around Cheltenham next to his name. Trainer Ferdy Murphy has a good record in festival handicaps, and with AP McCoy booked for the ride, connections clearly feel a good run is on the cards.

The Kim Muir is another one of those races for amateur riders, one of four overall, but still attracts a very good field, and some very good riders as well. Ferdy Murphy has another live chance here with THE HOLLINWELL. He seems to be peaking at the right time, and had a perfect tune up with a ‘Jumpers bumper’ at Southwell last month. He won the six runner race quite easily under a 10lb claimer, and the form has already worked out well with the fourth that day coming out and winning a 17 runner handicap hurdle on his next start. He goes to Cheltenham with the handicapper not altering his mark after this run, and he could be potentially well in. At the prohibitive odds at 20/1 he has to have a live chance.

1.30 Sir Des Champs (Nap)
2.05 Cape Tribulation (Ew)
2.40 Medermit (Ew)
3.20 Big Bucks
4.00 Divers (Ew)
4.40 The Hollinwell (Ew)


The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

National Hunt Chase - Cheltenham Day Two

The National Hunt Challenge Cup is the opening race on day two of the Festival, and the four mile trip is usually a precursor for horses going onto the Nationals, with the first and second from last years race, Chicago Grey and Beshabar both running in the Scottish National, with the latter being triumphant. Chicago Grey will now go for the Aintree Grand National this year, and is quietly fancied at around 25/1 for trainer Gordon Elliot.

The National Hunt Chase is the most historic and arguably challenging race of the Festival, run on the old course, is run over four miles with twenty-four fences, making it a true test, even more so with the relative inexperience for some riders., with race being contested by amateur riders.

Former jockey and current trainer Jonjo O’ Neill has the strongest record in the race, with a record five wins, most recently through Butlers Cabin in 2007. He has no entries unfortunately in this race, but trainers similarly to him who have won the race as a jockey do, going onto train, the likes of Willie Mullins and Andy Martin. Willie Mullins, Champion Irish Trainer has the front two in the betting in Soll and Allee garde. Soll has had this race as his target since winning a Down Royal chase on February 1st over two and a half miles on heavy going. The seven year old son of Presenting looks to be an out and out stayer and has all the makings of a National horse. Similarly Allee Garde has shown good form this season since reappearing at Clonmel, winning comfortably, much like Soll, on two and a half miles on heavy ground. He ran well behind the two leading Gigginstown novices First Lieutenant and Last Instalment in the Grade 1 Fort Leney Chase at Leopardstown, before another game effort when third at Naas in January. Mullins will have two of the best amateur riders in racing at his disposal in his son Patrick Mullins, and Katie Walsh, a winner of t his in 2009 with Poker De Sivola, and both have been in good form this season.

Alfie Spinner has shown good form this season in novice chases, running behind some much superior rivals, yet still demonstrating a good attitude. A fourth behind Grands Crus on his seasonal reappearance at Newbury, had him thirteen lengths behind a hopeful for the Twiston-Davies stable Viking Blond, owned by the same connections of Sprinter Sacre. Alfie Spinner followed that up by a win on heavy ground at Chepstow, before game efforts behind Frascati Park and a top rated performance of 138 on official ratings when three lengths behind RSA hopefuls Bobs Worth and Invictus in the Reynoldstown Chase at Ascot. He has the added bonus of having a previous winning jockey on him in Sam Waley-Cohen, who has a tremendous record in the race, winning in 2009 on Tricky Trickster, and was third last year on Be There in Five.

Harry the Viking has shaped like a stayer all winter, and has been the long time ante post favourite for this race and has leading connections, being trained by Paul Nicholls and owned by Sir Alex Ferguson. The seven year old gelding was bought from the Irish point-to-point circuit, and showed good heart with his debut last season. He won two maiden hurdles, before winning two subsequent maiden chases. The latter being the more impressive, winning over three miles two furlongs on good to soft ground at Doncaster. He was caught on the run in before showing great determination to rally back and get up on the line. Second that day was Ikorodu Road, who got up to subsequently beat the Grand National favourite and Kim Muir winner Junior in the Doncaster Chase, further enhancing the strong line of form.
Teaforthree looks to be shaping up to be a very smart chaser since switching to the larger obstacles at the start of this season. He had a good hurdling career, a narrow third in a Cheltenham Grade 2 novice hurdle, before a solid eighth in the Grade 1 Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival, when seemingly done for speed. Chasing was always going to be the making of this animal though, and he has warmed to them, running five times during this campaign, with three victories. The beautifully bred eight year old finished second to RSA hopeful Join Together on his debut, who has won another Cheltenham novice chase, with both winning further races. He was a comfortable winner of a three mile heavy ground run at Chepstow, beating subsequent winners Restless Harry and Cannington Brook in fine style, running on well towards the end. Beaten for pace in the Feltham Chase, he got back on track winning another novice chase at Chepstow, getting a smart ride from AP McCoy, with the form already working out well. JT McNamara has been booked, and that should further enhance his claims.

Given the nature of TEAFORTHREE’s victories, I think the trip will be the making of him. Winning on all types of ground has highlighted his versatility, and he has been running against much classier rivals. Winning, running on heavy ground over three miles further indicates the trip should suit and he will be there or thereabouts. The main threats look to come from the unexposed Harry the Viking and the latter of the Mullins pair Allee Garde, who like Teaforthree, has been racing in much higher class races, and still running with great credit.

1. Teaforthree
2. Allee Garde
3. Harry The Viking

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

JLT Handicap Chase - Cheltenham Day One

The JLT Handicap Chase on Day One is the opening handicap of the festival and is a race that has often been one for the punters in their annual week long battle with those evil bookmakers. Run over three miles, the race has been won by some classy sorts in the past few years with previous winners including Bensalem, An Accordion, Youllneverwalkalone and Wichita Lineman, under an inspired AP McCoy ride.

A trainer having something of a rejuvenation this season is Alan King, who has an impressive Cheltenham arsenal at his disposal this year with horses such as Medermit, Grumeti, Montbazon, Vendor and Bless The Wings to name but a few. King has two winners and a second from the last five renewals of this race and has the impressive Hold On Julio at his disposal.

The nine year old returned from a 2 ½ year absence winning a maiden chase by a staggering 28 lengths at Kelso last April. Since then, he has racked up two very impressive three mile handicap chase victories at Sandown, impressing in decent company. The gelding is clearly on the upgrade but the facts that he has never run around Cheltenham and has been put up 28lb by the handicapper mean he has a lot on his plate.

A horse who looks potentially well handicapped is Noland for Paul Nicholls and Ruby Walsh. A Grade 1 winner in 2010 and Grade 2 winner last year, both over three miles, he ran a good race in defeat in Ireland, before finishing sixth at Ascot, when his jumping let him down. Dropped another 2lb by the handicapper, he looks to be on a very workable mark.

Tullamore Dew ran an absolute cracker when finishing a neck behind Massini’s Maguire in a thrilling finish in a three mile handicap chase last month at Ascot. He stayed on well to close down the strong front running Massini’s Maguire and could be considered unlucky to not get up on the line. The two negatives that could put punters off are the 6lb hike in the weights and the fact the Nick Gifford stable are yet to have a chase winner in 2012.

The horse that finished third that day Cappa Bleu will also take his chance but looks to be using this as a stepping stone to Aintree, and on the basis of his previous run, could find himself seriously outpaced in the middle stages of the race.

The Pipe yard are always to be feared in the Cheltenham handicaps and it has been no surprise to see the ante post money plough into several of his fancies already. The Package is one who has been well backed in ante-post markets for this race. Nine out of the last eleven winners have started at a price of 8/1 or shorter, so the shorties are worthy of very close consideration. Back from a serious lay off, the nine year old has not run since an unsuccessful outing in the Badger Ales Trophy in 2010. He was a narrow loser in this race two years ago, losing by a head to 33/1 shot Chief Dan George. He is 2lb lower than his run then and clearly has to be respected.

Fruity O’ Rooney could be a lively outsider for the in-form Gary Moore yard and, given the run of Sire De Grugy in the Imperial Cup, the yard appear to be in good nick. He won a Class 3 handicap chase over three miles on 27th December, meeting trouble in jumping throughout but still beating subsequent winner Midnight Appeal by four lengths. He followed up that win with a good third in the Great Yorkshire Chase behind potential Grand National horses Calgary Bay and Shakalakaboomboom. That was a fair effort and he could be a terrific each way price come the day. Calgary Bay has further franked the form.

A horse that I have backed and followed for some time since losing many ante post vouchers on him for the Neptune Hurdle in 2010 is Quantitativeeasing. He loves Cheltenham and the manner of his Gold Cup Handicap Chase win at Cheltenham in December was authoritative. The step up to three miles should further benefit the seven year old, who has all the makings of a Grand National horse in prospect. He goes well fresh and has a great record around Cheltenham, his last three runs there being 2-2-1.

All in all this looks a relatively wide open contest with several leading contenders. The strongest claims in the race, in my view, are held by Quantiativeeasing. His Gold Cup Handicap Chase win at the December meeting left an indelible mark on my memory and it looks the strongest piece of form on display here.

Tullamore Dew finished behind him last year in the Centenary Novices Handicap at last years festival and he should be running on into the places. Given the length of The Package’s absence, stamina doubts have to linger, and I can see him fading in the closing stages, with Fruity O’ Rooney running on from the back.

1. Quantitativeeasing
2. Tullamore Dew
3. Fruity O’ Rooney
4. The Package

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Cheltenham - Day One

Do you smell that? The extra feel of electricity going round is not a power surge from the National Grid, it’s in the air because Cheltenham is finally here! No more talking, no more excuses, the preening and posturing can stop. The greatest show on turf is here.

Where to start?

The opening day is arguably the strongest. The Supreme Novices, Arkle and Champion Hurdle all have a rich history. Tuesday also enjoys a diverse feel with the Mares Hurdle, the Cross Country, a 3 miles handicap chase and a 2 ½ miles handicap novices chase. I’m already drooling at the thought.

It all starts with the Supreme Novices and the accompanying roar that sets the place alight. The pace in the Supreme Novices is usually electric and they go off hell for leather, with the best juveniles over two miles around Prestbury Park. The JP McManus money has piled into the ante post markets for DARLAN and he has been pin-pointed as the ‘chosen one’ for the infamous punter and owner.

A winner over course and distance in a novice hurdle, he was travelling like a dream in the Betfair Hurdle when falling two out, giving AP a terrible bump in the process. The way he travelled, suggests that the strong pace would suit him further, and he has a similar profile to previous winners. Although short enough in the market he has to be respected.

The other fancy is the top Irish juvenile STEPS TO FREEDOM for Jessica Harrington, whose yard is coming into form just at the right time. A Group 3 winner on the flat, he has had a smooth transition to hurdles, by way of winning the champion bumper at Aintree last year. Since then he has won three out of three novice hurdles, and goes into the race unbeaten. He won a Grade 3 novices hurdle at Punchestown on heavy ground, and followed that up with a win at Cheltenham over course and distance, getting up late to beat Prospect Wells. The trainer felt he should have won both races by further. He has been put away since and should be fresh and racing to go come March 13th.

Next comes the first of three odds on ‘bankers’ that the bookies could be absolutely crucified with. SPRINTER SACRE looks to go one better in the Arkle for the Seven Barrows yard than Finians Rainbow did when second last year when seemingly not getting up the hill. Sprinter Sacre has looked an absolute beast since switching to chasing winning his maiden chase by thirty lengths at Doncaster, before dismissing Arkle ante-post rival Peddlers Cross by 15 lengths in another novice chase. That set him up nicely for the Grade 2 Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, where he beat last year’s winner French Opera, in the process of breaking the track record, all whilst not breaking sweat. He looks the part, travels, and jumps and looks a superstar for years to come barring accidents. Al Ferof is respected having won the King Henry VIII chase over course and distance and having beaten Sprinter Sacre in the Supreme Novices last year, but I fully expect that form to be turned round in emphatic style.

The other two hotpot favourites come from the Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins, in the form of reigning champions, HURRICANE FLY and QUEVEGA in the Champion Hurdle and the David Nicholson Mares Hurdle respectively.

Hurricane Fly has been better than ever since his victory in last years renewal, beating horses like Oscar Whisky, Overturn and Thousand Stars. His two runs at Punchestown and Leopardstown saw him win on good and heavy ground, by extended margins, both on the bridle, and he is simply different gravy to his rivals. Binocular has looked rejuvenated and Zarkander’s Triumph Hurdle form has been much boosted, but they both need to improve at least 7lb to get anywhere near the favourite if he turns up and is on song.

Similarly, QUEVEGA is completely different mustard when it comes to the mares division. She should surely win doing handstands to give her and Ruby Walsh a fourth consecutive mares hurdle.

The Cross Country is more of a spectacle than a betting opportunity and is a prize that is usually taken home by the Irish, who have dominated this race in recent years. The race is usually rather straightforward, with only one winner priced above 7/1 or greater in the last eight years. Last year’s winner SIZING AUSTRALIA went off a decent price around 13/2 and I can see him repeating that success for trainer Henry De Bromhead.

He led from the front and made all last year in impressive fashion, and has been patiently brought along this year, with this being his seasonal target. He teturned to the track in December, before a good tune up at Naas in a two mile handicap hurdle which will have him spot on. He will be getting weight from Scotsirish and Uncle Junior, the Willie Mullins pair, and has to be the value bet at the current prices at around the 5/1 mark.

That leaves us with the handicaps, and anyone who has any definite answers for handicaps over the Festival is a clever fellow. However, I just may have found the elusive ‘handicap good thing’. A horse I’ve backed and followed for years since losing many ante post vouchers on him for the Neptune in 2010 is QUANTITATIVEEASING.

The manner and style of his Gold Cup Handicap Chase win at Cheltenham in December was superb, and the step up to three miles should further enhance the seven year old’s chance. The form of that last race has worked out well with Medermit finishing second in a Grade 1 and Tatenen, Imsingingtheblues and Calgary Bay all running with great credit since. He goes well fresh, and has a great record around Cheltenham. The only serious danger to him could be NOLAND for Paul Nicholls and Ruby Walsh, who has better form than the bare figures suggest. A Grade 1 winner in 2010 and Grade 2 winner last year, both over three miles, he ran a good race in defeat in Ireland before finishing sixth at Ascot, when his jumping let him down. Dropped another 2lb by the handicapper, he looks to be at a very workable mark.

The final race of the day is one of the handicaps that is usually taken on with great aplomb by shrewd trainer Ferdy Murphy, who had the winner last year with Divers (with our other tip Quantitativeeasing finishing second), and he has a good chance to taste victory again with GOING WRONG, who looks to be on a good mark for the Malton based trainer. He may not be the most obvious choice with Hunt Ball and Bless the Wings both having had very successful seasons, but given the trainers record at the festival, particularly in handicaps, he looks the one to be with. Up 9lb for victory in his last two novice chases at Sedgfield, the winning margins of 5 and ¾ lengths do not tell the whole story of the races. The latter race in particular caught the eye, where regular partner Graham Lee tracked the odds on favourite Realt Mor before easing him to the front after popping the last in the straight. He looks to be very classy and unexposed and looks to have the potential to improve further, especially over the extended two and a half miles trip.

1.30 Darlan & Steps to Freedom
2.05 Sprinter Sacre (Nap)
2.40 Quantitativeeasing & Noland (Ew)
3.20 Hurricane Fly
4.00 Sizing Australia
4.40 Quevega
5.15 Going Wrong (Ew)

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Betfair Hurdle Day at Newbury - Friday and Ascot Chase Day - Saturday

SPRINTER SACRE is a horse I have harped on about for months now and I got on early in the Arkle ante-post market. I fully expect him to rout his opponents in the Game Spirit Chase on this, his last stop before Cheltenham. The race has been good to trainer Nicky Henderson and his winner from last year, French Opera, is also entered although the ground will dictate whether he’ll run or not. Sprinter Sacre is the top rated horse in the line up following his demolition of Peddlers Cross at Kempton. Sprinter Sacre is top class and it’d be no surprise were he a multiple winner of championship races in years to come so, although he will be a short price, follow him on Friday and lump on in the Arkle.

The rescheduled Betfair Hurdle is one of the most exciting races in the national hunt calendar and the Paul Nicholls trained Zarkander is the short priced ante post favourite. He looks the most obvious candidate in this two mile handicap hurdle but the value prices have now gone.

The two mile handicap hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival is usually a firm pointer, and four have made the cut, Get Me out of Here and Final Approach, Soldatino and Alarazi, but all are overlooked.

Five year olds have a terrific record in the race, a pointer to the chances of EMPIRE LEVANT and THIRD INTENTION. The Colin Tizzard trained Third Intention finished nine lengths behind Zarkander in the Triumph Hurdle and has the same 9lb in receipt at official weights here. He ran well in the Greatwood at Cheltenham, before an even better second behind leading Triumph contender Ranjaan and the run should have him sport on.

Empire Levant won a handicap by 28 lengths at Taunton, hard held. He then ran two days later and got out-battled by Rock on Ruby, who went onto to finish a narrow second in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, with the third Raya Star winning the Ladbroke. He is up 12lb but the trainer fancies his chances and he could be another with something in hand of the handicapper.

Another horse using this weekend for a prep race is BOBS WORTH for the in-form Nicky Henderson stable, a yard coming back from an impressive treble at Kelso on Wednesday. Bobs Worth will go for the RSA Chase en route from Ascot and has been impressive since switching to chasing. He outstayed Cue Card at Newbury, before finding only Grands Crus too good in the Feltham Chase at Kempton. He is progressing, and sets the obvious standard in a tricky race with plenty quality about it.

SWINCOMBE FLAME is a progressive handicapper who we tipped up here in the Lanzarote Hurdle and we’ll remain loyal here in a Class 2 handicap hurdle at Ascot. Up only 5lb, she should be good value for it.

The highlight at Ascot is the Grade 1 Betfair Ascot Chase, over the extended two and a half miles. A specialist trip, may will look to use this as using this as a pointer towards the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham, run over a similar distance. Last year’s winner Riverside Theatre turns out, as does the much hyped Kauto Stone, who carries a large reputation. However the value could lie with MEDERMIT, who comes here on the back of a terrific run in the Cheltenham Handicap Gold Cup in December. The Alan King trained horse won the Grade 2 Peterborough Chase, before finishing third in the Amlin Chase behind Master Minded and Victor Chandler Chase winner Somersby, The form of both looks good, and he should be a very tasty price. The trip looks ideal.

Newbury (Friday) 12.10 – Sprinter Sacre (Nap)
Newbury (Friday) 13.15 – Third Intention (Ew) & Empire Levant (Ew)
Ascot Saturday 1.50 – Bobs Worth
Ascot Saturday 3.00 – Medermit
Ascot Saturday 3.35 – Swincombe Flame

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner @ JJMSports

Yorkshire Chase Day at Doncaster and Cheltenham Trials Day 28/1/12

A feast of racing on Saturday showcases Doncaster’s Sky Bet Chase (formerly known as The Great Yorkshire Chase), a highlight of the northern track’s jump racing calendar. Calgary Bay looks to defend his crown in what looks a decent renewal. It is also Trials Day at Cheltenham as preparations for the forthcoming festival move into top gear. Some very good horses on display at the Cotswold track, particular in the Argento Grade 2 Chase.

The Argento Chase is usually a pointer towards the Gold Cup and is run over the same course and distance. Won last year by Neptune Collognes, in a less than vintage renewal, this looks a classier field. Previous Arkle Chase winners Captain Chris and Tidal Bay, previous Hennessy winners Diamond Harry and Carruthers, as well as Cheltenham specialist Midnight Chase are among the likely runners. However another Cheltenham specialist with good claims is TIME FOR RUPERT, who can build on what promised to be such a strong novice career.

A disappointing favourite in last years RSA Chase, the eight year old finished second this term in the Charlie Hall Chase, before a solid fifth in the Betfair Chase. He dropped in grade to win a solid Graduation Chase at Newbury, and that confidence booster can do him the world of good as he returns to his favourite track.

Another Cheltenham specialist is POQUELIN, trained by Paul Nicholls and owned by the Stewart family. The multiple Prestbury Park winner carries top weight in the 2.05 but looks to hold solid claims, despite a disappointing season thus far. He has the class plus the course and distance experience to slam his rivals here, on his way to a likely run in the Ryanair Chase at the Festival.

The James and Keith Reveley team usually do well at Doncaster and the father and son combo have three strong each way chances at Doncaster. The mare CUE TO CUE was the nap in midweek, but has been saved for this race (the 2.20), and she has solid claims. There are some tough rivals in Alasi and Lifestyle, but both have flaws, with Alasi unseating last time out and the Nicky Henderson trained Lifestyle running over a shorter trip.
The other Reveley eye-catchers are CORKAGE and KINGS GREY who seeks to bounce back after consecutive seconds, often in unfortunate circumstances. His last run at Catterick was a muddling affair, and he came up short, when given a poor ride, seemingly with bundles in hand, going down by a short head. The race at Doncaster looks tough, but could cut up and, with jumping doubts about leading fancies. Corkage was successfully napped last Wednesday, and won at a canter, suggesting he still has plenty left in the tank, and should be able to defy his new mark, despite hurdling instead of chasing on this occasion.

The Skybet Chase looks a terrific race in prospect and CALGARY BAY could take all the beating for the in-form Henrietta Knight stable. The versatile nine year old looked back to his best when winning a competitive three mile handicap on New Years Day at Cheltenham, showing the class that he has always promised. He is 2lb well in as a result of that and, given his performance in winning this last year, he should go close.

His main threat will come from the recent course and distance winner QIANSHAN LEADER, who won a tricky handicap here in the mud, back in December. The Emma Lavelle horse thrived in the tougher conditions, and if the heavens open, it could further improve his chances seeking the hatrick under stable jockey Jack Doyle. It’s worth backing both in this open-looking contest.

2.05 Cheltenham - Poquelin
2.35 Cheltenham - Time for Rupert (Nap)
1.15 Doncaster – Cue to Cue (Ew)
2.20 Doncaster – Corkage (Nb)
2.50 Doncaster – Calgary Bay (Ew) & Qianshan Leader (Ew)
3.55 Doncaster – Kings Grey

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner @JJMSports

Thursday Tickle - Tipping 14/12/11 - Towcester, Exeter and Southwell

A brief column before a more detailed look at Saturday’s racing; however there are a some interesting runners Friday, which although at short prices, could be worth perming up, or at least keeping an eye on for the rest of the season.

JP McManus likes to have runners on every card at every National Hunt meeting, and stable jockey AP McCoy goes to Towcester as opposed to Exeter, to take some decent looking mounts for his boss, as well as some promising juveniles for Nicky Henderson. His stand out ride looks to be RATE OF KNOTS, who just loves the soft ground, being campaigned almost exclusively in the last year, in an attempt to get the best out of mare. She finished a hearty, yet unlucky second on her first run for 266 days, when going clear, yet blundering the last month under Richie McClernon, and still rallied in the final strides to only go down by a length. She showed great heart and character, and a replication of that form can take the 2.40.

The Pipe stable are in good form as of late, with the main eye catcher being Tom Scu giving Buddy Balero a terrific ride on Buddy Balero Tuesday in the famous Malcolm Denmark silks, an owner with an attractive string this term. Scudamore goes to Towcester rather than Exeter, and his best chance seems to be CLOSE HOUSE. Showing good form last season, he was well supported on first attempt hurdling, and can be considered rather unlucky, with Tom losing his irons three out, and yet the four year old still showed promise of staying on late on. The ground was very soft that day, and if it could go good-to-soft, it will give the gelding an even greater chance.

One of the stable’s most progressive horses last term was ARRAYAN, who failed completing his hatrick bid, when unseating at the last hurdle in a grade 3 handicap, when ten lengths clear and seemingly home. He finished a respectable 9/18 on his reappearance this term, won by the highly respected Poungach for champion trainer Paul Nicholls, and is expected to come on for the run.

A short priced fancy for tomorrow is ROYAL CHARM for Paul Nicholls in the Betfair Graduation Chase at Exeter. He was a tough, game novice chaser last year, including winning this very race. He finished behind Medermit and Wishful Thinking, two of last seasons star novice chasers, and was unlucky when falling 4 fences out in Future Stars Chase at Sandown last time out when tanking along. He has 7lb in hand on official ratings and a big challenge is expected.

Last but not least, GREYFRIARSCHORISTA seems streets ahead of the handicapper, and will be similarly short in the 1.30 at Southwell. Since being claimed by Brian Ellison from Mark Johnston, he is 2/2, and punted off the boards in both starts. He runs with a 6lb penalty, but given the cosiness of both victories, the handicapper is sure to have fun when reassessing, and appears to be a penalty kick under Barry McHugh who was on board last time out for his 10 lengths victory.

13.10 Towcester - Close House

13.20 Exeter - Arrayan

13.30 Southwell - Greyfriarschorista (Nap)

13.50 Exeter - Royal Charm

14.40 Towcester Rate of Knots

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner / @JJMSports

Saturday Tipping - Goodwood and Newmarket

Glorious Goodwood has absolutely lived up to its name and reputation as a festival, and I feel extremely privileged to have seen many racehorses of utter class in my time, but Frankel winning the Sussex Stakes puts him top of my mental pecking order ahead of Sea The Stars and Zarkava.

Frankel winning the Sussex Stakes is another example of the ‘Classic Generation’ having the apparent upper hand over the older horses, and they can continue this trend in the Nassau Stakes in MISTY FOR ME. The Nassau is a Group One contest for fillies and mares over 1m 2f and attracts horses of the highest calibre, The Aidan O’ Brien trained filly built on her dual group one two year old career in emphatic style winning the Irish 2000 Guineas and then the Pretty Polly Stakes, with the Pretty Polly performance being the stand out, destroying Midday, who she will reoppose here again on Saturday. Misty for Me has proven that her optimum trip is over the distance, tiring in the Epsom Oaks, yet staying on in the Irish guineas, and given the fact three year olds are given 9lb due to weight for age, she should be very hard to beat.

The Stewards Cup is the marmite of betting opportunities –some people love it, some people hate it. There will be a field of 30 runners trying to win this Class 2 handicap, and instead of taking a chance with an outsider, we are playing it safe and sticking with the top weight, the best horse by far in the race, HOOF IT. Kieren Fallon seems to get on tremendously well with this horse, which landed another plunge for trainer Mick Easterby when winning the SkyBet Dash at York, a 20 runner handicap as 3/1 favourite. He is clearly one of those horses that come along that is a group horse slumming it in handicap company, much like Royal Ascot winner Deacon Blues, and as long as the horse deals with the ‘bounce factor’, the Easterby’s could be landing another one of their famous gambles Saturday.

We switch our attention to Newmarket for our final selection, is for in form trainer Andrew Balding, who seems to thrive in tricky handicaps, and has another potential leading player in LAY TIME, whose form looks absolutely rock solid. The filly made her debut last year in a Salisbury maiden, which was won by Group horse for Sir Michael Stoute Shim Sham, and had UAE Oaks winner Khawlah in second. Lay Time finished fifth that day, and then went and won a maiden on her seasonal debut this year, winning a 7 runner maiden over 7f two weeks ago by three lengths. The Balding yard is synonymous with horses coming on for their runs, and this daughter of supersire Galileo looks like the sky is the limit for her.

2.20 Newmarket – Lay Time (Nap)

3.10 Goodwood – Misty For Me

3.45 Goodwood – Hoof It

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Midwwek Turfing Talk - July 13th 211 - Sandown Park and Catterick Bridge

This Wednesday (13^th July) there is a fantastic spread of racing to choose from, with cards spread across three countries, two codes and seven meetings. From this choice of over fourty races I have whittled things down to just three selections in the hope of providing our loyal followers with a nice profit to tee up their weekend punting plans.

Our first selection comes from Catterick in the heart of Yorkshire. The local trainers are usually those to keep an eye out for, especially when the money is down. Trainers such as Richard Fahey, Mark Johnston and David O’ Meara have experienced success in the last few years, however this year it has all been about the EASTERBY family, with both Mick and nephew Tim experiencing a fantastic year thus far. Tim, in particular, seems to have a really good bunch of two year olds.

He has a runner of note in the 2.50, a novice auction race, where his horse PIECE BY PIECE is likely to go off a hot favourite. Piece By Piece won a six furlong maiden at Ripon, which has worked out well, some of those behind coming out to win subsequently. He then ran second recently at Newcastle to a smart horse of Tom Tate’s, Parc De Launay, losing by a neck. His form looks solid enough and the step up to seven furlongs should prove a help rather than a hindrance.

The Henry Candy yard is flying at the minute, in particular when stable jockey Dane O’ Niell is on board. Out of the 44 rides he has had for his boss this year, he has had 11 winners and 13 further places. The team can have further success with BLESS YOU, a recent maiden winner who makes her debut in handicap company for the first time in the 6:50 at Sandown on Wednesday. The filly has been given a mark of 82, which means she will carry top weight, however she looks to have bags of improvement to come, and has improved with every run thus far. The maiden form looks strong, with half the field at least placed in their subsequent runs, and she looks the one to beat.

Further down the card at Sandown there looks to be another horse of interest in the Mark Tompkins trained BATTERY POWER, complete with eye-catching jockey booking Kieren Fallon. The Royal Applause filly is stepping up to 1m 6f for the first time, and looks like one to keep an eye on. Since winning her maiden with relative ease at Southwell back in November, she was stepped up to 10 furlongs on her reappearance, and finished fourth of six. She was entitled to that run, having been off for 200 days . The recent promise she showed when finishing second in a Classified Stakes race at Newmarket earmarks her as the potential value in a trappy handicap.

2.50 Catterick – Piece By Piece (Nap)

6.50 Sandown – Bless You

8.50 Sandown – Battery Power

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Saturday Tipping - Ascot, York and Newmarket

The Darley July Cup this Saturday at Newmarket is the showpiece of a great weekend of racing. In addition to the famous sprint we have a great supporting card at Newmarket and good racing from York, Ascot, Chester, Hamilton and Salisbury.

Our first selection is in the July Cup itself where I’ve gone for DELEGATOR, who seeks to provide race sponsors Darley with their first victory in this Group One contest. I was fortunate to witness his win in the Group Three Duke of York Stakes last time out in person and he was scintillating. The ground was the key that day, and he clearly loves it as firm as possible. He was pulled out of the Golden Jubilee due to the ground going soft and that enforced break may be another factor that works in his favour here.

The John Smiths Cup is run at York Saturday and is another tough, competitive handicap with a strong field. The standout is PEKAN STAR, a horse who may be a group class horse masquerading as a handicapper. He blitzed a field of 15 last time out at York in his first run in a year. He should come on a fair bit for that run, as much of Roger Varian’s string do, and, in my opinion, he may be several steps ahead of the handicapper and could turn out to be pretty special.

CITYSCAPE ran an absolutely blinder to get just three lengths of two of the best milers in the world when finishing third to Goldikova and Canford Cliffs in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot. He looks like he should have conditions to suit in order to finally get his nose ahead this season at Ascot on Saturday.

He has been rather unlucky this season, and has not had his ideal soft ground. That looks set to change with showers forecast. Last year he posted wins in Listed and Group races and is highly thought of by trainer Roger Charlton. He runs against Dick Turpin, who has beaten him already, once more but I think he can get the better this time, with Turpin running poorly in the Lockinge Stakes and then finishing last of nine at Longchamp in the interim. Cityscape is on an upward curve and could make all under recent Group One winning jockey Pat Cosgrave.

3.15 York – Pekan Star

3.35 Newmarket – Delegator (Nap)

3.45 Ascot – Cityscape

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Saturday 11th June - Calm before the storm at York, Chester and Sandown

It feels like the calm before the storm as we approach the week of mouth watering action that is Royal Ascot, but the quality racing keeps coming thick and fast, and even in a week where it is sandwiched between The Epsom meeting and Royal Ascot, racing on Saturday I still that of the utmost quality, with fine meetings at Newbury, York and Chester.

Andrew Balding has started the season in fantastic form and one of is leading handicap hopeful’s is OPERA GAL, who run’s in the 3:55 at Chester, which is a class two handicap. The filly has been nothing but progressive over the last two years, being the model of consistency. She has finished fourth and second in her two outings this year, and got backed off the boards at Doncaster last time out, and the ease that has come in the ground in the last few days should be in her favour to push her over the finishing line in first.

With stay with the Balding yard to move to York for the 3:15, another class two handicap, where it looks like DESERT LAW is one who is on the upgrade and has plenty more potential than his current handicap mark. He made his debut in handicap company two weeks ago, and looked for all the winner, before being narrowly held by Majestic Myles at Newmarket. He should come on greatly for the run, as was his first run for 225 days. As mentioned, the yard is in flying form, and stable jockey Jimmy Fortune is booked in the saddle.

THE CONFESSOR goes at Sandown for Henry Candy, and has a tremendous record when fresh. He has run twice when having a 85 day absence or more, and returns to seven furlongs, where he is two from three, with his only loss coming after running with only a seven day break, which clearly does not suit the horse. Henry usually has his horses fit and ready to go, which should mean he has every chance whilst running against potentially rust horses.

2.55 Sandown – The Confessor

3.15 York – Desert Law

3.55 Chester – Opera Gal

Saturday Tips - 16th April 2011

After the hype and hoopla surrounding the Grand National, there is usually an anti-climatic lull in the National Hunt season before a final crescendo at the Punchestown festival, which will bring the season to a close. However before then we have the Scottish Grand National meeting at Ayr Saturday, with a bumper field that includes last years winner Merigo, as well as strong chances from the Tim Vaughan, Gordon Elliot and David Pipe yards. There is also extremely competitive flat racing from both Doncaster and Newbury, and we are fortunate to be at that time of the year, where both codes are working in harmony!

We start off our selections at Newbury, and in the Group 3 Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Stakes, and the Sir Michael Stoute trained VERDANT. He was billed as a possible Derby horse last year after winning a good maiden and then a tough handicap race, but instead went down the handicapping route. He ran on Derby day finishing third behind the tough Dandino, before ending the season with good wins at Sandown and Goodwood. The Khalid Abdullah owned 4 year old will have the best jockey in the business on board in Ryan Moore and is clearly on the upgrade. There could be a threat in the Clive Cox/Adam Kirby partnership that has Poet, the top rated horse in the race also involved, and could fill out the 1-2.

We stay at Newbury for the next race for Fred Darling stakes, which is now called the Dubai Duty Free Stakes, a listed contest for fillies. There is a line up of 14 contending this group 3 race, with lots of well respected horses, with the top stables all represented. Cape Dollar, winner of the Rockfel Stakes last year is respected and will likely go off the warm favourite for Sir Michael Stoute. However a chance should be taken on RIMTH, the horse who set tongues wagging with an impressive facile maiden win last year, before being ultra consistent in big races last year. She followed her maiden win with places in the Lowther Stakes, Dick Poole stakes and Chevely Park stakes, twice finishing behind Champion 2 year old filly Hooray. There is an eyecatching booking with Cristophe Soumillion on board, who is returning from a very successful stint in Meydan for Mike De Kock.

The focal point of Ayr’s season is the Scottish Grand National, a gruelling 4 mile race, won last year by Merigo, who lines up to defend his crown. There are 30 runners, and the ground is likely to be good or good to firm, which should suit perfectly recent Cheltenham National Hunt Chase winner CHICAGO GREY for the fantastic trainer Gordon Elliot. His victory at Cheltenham shows he stays the trip perfectly, and there will be no issues over the ground. He has a very good handicap mark, thanks to Neptune Collognes running taking top weight. The trainer is in exceptional form, having winners at the highest level at both the Cheltenham and Aintree festivals. The major threats come from Merigo, who clearly loves the course and trip, and Beshabar, second to Chicago Grey last time out, but in receipt of 5lb on their reappearance.

Selections:

2.05 Newbury – Verdant

2.40 Newbury – Rimth

3.25 Ayr – Chicago Grey NAP

The Yorkshireman – Jack Milner

Wednesday 30th March 2011 Selections

The flat season is officially back on Wednesday, with an arguably anticlimactic seasonal opener at Catterick races. Although the season usually starts with the prestigious Lincoln handicap at Doncaster, this season sees a fresh approach, and the top northern jockeys and trainers alike are out in force. It may not have the same buzz as the Lincoln, but there will still be a great atmosphere and a chance to pick a couple of nice priced winners.

One of the leading northern partnerships is trainer David ‘Dandy’ Nicholls and son Adrian Nicholls. They have two leading fancies Wednesday, the first being the promising maiden SINADINOU. He seeks to lose his maiden tag at the third attempt in the 4.20 race and clearly has a lot going for him. He has been running on all weather tracks in a bid to get off the mark, and the change to turf, based on breeding, should suit. He has the highest official rating, and connections took the exact same race last year, so clearly know how to get a horse ready for the start of the season.

The Nicholls family could be celebrating at double at the track with their other runner, FREMEN, who runs in a claimer race, with son Adrian once again booked to be on board. He has ran fantastically well in these type of races last year, going on a run of 8 victories in 9 races during 2009/2010, especially thriving in the early parts of last season completing a hatrick when winning at Musslburgh in June. He had his first run in 139 days when finishing a tiring 5^th at Southwell, and the help of a run, and should run a very good race. He has the added benefit of being officially 2lb worse off of nearest rival thrust control, but will be 6lb better in at the weights.

Wednesday may be the start of the flat season, but there is still very good national hunt racing on, and with upcoming festivals at Aintree and Punchestowns, not to mention Sandown and Galway, eyes are still peeled to notice jockey and trainers who are at the top of their game. A partnership having a very good year is Phillip Hobbs and Richard Johnson, Racing Post Trophy and Arkle winners, who have a runner in the 2.50 novice chase at Hereford races on Wednesday. Since switching to novice chasing, the horse has been extremely unlucky to encounter some very tough opposition. His last three runs, he has come unstuck against Chicago Grey (National Hunt Chase Winner), Wayward Prince (One length third in the RSA Chase) and Time For Rupert (RSA Chase favourite). There looks to be nothing of that level of standard this time, and providing his jumping is up to scratch, he should prevail here.

Wednesday 30^th March 2011

Balthazar King 3.10 Hereford

Fremen 3.50 Catterick

Sinadinou 4.20 Catterick

The Yorkshireman - Jack Milner

Champion Hurdle 2011 Preview

The Champion Hurdle is the showcase champion race on the opening day of the Festival, and there is one word that seems synonymous with the runners of the race - winners. The race this year has added spice to it, with winners from 3 of last year’s festival races all meeting in this year’s renewal of the Champion Hurdle. We have the Supreme Novices winner Menorah, the Neptune Novices winner; the unbeaten Peddlers Cross, and the reigning and defending Champion Hurdle winner Binocular. Not to mention the winner of the Irish Champion Hurdle Hurricane Fly, the Welsh Champion Oscar Whiskey, and the Kingwell Hurdle winner; Mille Chief.

The reigning champion is the Nicky Henderson trained BINOCULAR, who stormed up the hill, after being a worry to actually run. His trainer said he would not run after a disappointing trial, but sparkled on the gallops, and after being ante post favourite for around 6 months, went off 8/1 sixth favourite. He finished second in the Supreme Novices three years ago, then third in the Champion Hurdle two years ago, both of which going off a short favourite. The horse clearly has quality, but is temperamental, and needs things to go his well on the day. As reigning champion there is more pressure on Binocular, and in particularly AP McCoy, who has said he expects to win the race, and is his best chance of the meeting. He appears to be a temperamental sort, who can have an off day, as seen in his Champion Hurdle trial at Sandown last year, and again this year, with a very mundane and workman like performance. However he has shown that there is definitely something about him, and if the Binocular who won last year turns up fit and raring to go, the field are in deep trouble.

The Irish have made this race their own in recent years, mainly due to the wonder horse Istabraq, who sensationally won three consecutive champion hurdles from 1998-2000, in the same Binocular colours of owner J P McManus. The roar from the crowd of his victories was enormous, and they could have another potential superstar again in the Willie Mullins trained HURRICANE FLY. He won the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown in impressive fashion, cruising up on the bridle before taking the lead in the straight. The race has usually been an indicative to Cheltenham with horses such as Sizing Europe, Hardy Eustace and the previously mentioned Istabraq all winning en route to Prestbury Park, The Irish Champion has won 8 of his last 9 starts, including perhaps the most impressively the Punchestown Champion Hurdle in April last year, beating Solwhit by a neck, travelling smoothly before just edging in front. Since that victory, he has beaten Solwhit three more times since then this season, and the question mark surrounds the strength of the form. There is also a large negative surrounding the horse’s history. He is from the sire Montjeu, whose offspring have a woeful record, with no wins from 26 horses over 48 runs. He has also never run around Cheltenham, let alone win, which is a major negative, and gives his competitors an immediate advantage.

Another challenger is the winner of the Supreme Novices Hurdle, and is unbeaten this year, Phillip Hobbs stable star MENORAH. He has built from his impressive Supreme Novice victory, by winning the Greatwood Hurdle carrying top weight. He then followed that up by blitzing this years Supreme Novice favourite Cue Card, and highly touted Paul Nicholls juvenile Silviano Conti by 4 lengths in the International Hurdle, again, at Cheltenham, giving the horses a 3/3 record at Prestbury Park. As impressive as both victories were in all 3 Cheltenham runs, the form for races to back his assertions have been rather poor. From the International Hurdle, the 17 horses have had 23 runs, with 0 wins, and only 4 places, so although carrying top weight, the question has to be asked, what did he beat? There is also the fact that recent Supreme Novices winners, have a history of disappointing the year after in their return to the festival, for example Go Native in last years Champion Hurdle, and Captain Cee Bee in the same years Arkle, and for me, he would be one to avoid.

An interesting runner will be coming down from the north, and is the unbeaten PEDDLERS CROSS. The Donald McCain trained 6 year old, has gone from strength to strength, building on his Neptune Novice win, by going on to win at the Aintree festival, and was very impressive when beating Champion Hurdler Binocular in the rescheduled Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newbury. His credentials have been further boosted from his Neptune win, with third that day Finians Rainbow being touted for this years Arkle, and third Right of Passage going on to win the Ascot Gold Cup. Connections have been very bullish about the gelding’s chances; however there is a chance he may be outclassed in such company.

It usually pays to follow previous winners from the Cheltenham festival year to year, which narrows the field down to the three main rivals; it should be narrowed down even further to the reigning champion BINOCULAR. He was devastating in this race last year, and showed why when destroying the field in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, turning the tables on Starluck by six lengths. He has impressed connections on the gallops in the last week, and the word from Seven Barrows is that the horse is just as good as ever, and I see no reason why he cannot retains his crown. There are doubts surrounding each of his rivals. Hurricane Fly is unproven on the course, there are doubts surrounding the depth of Menorah’s form, and Peddlers Cross is still relatively inexperienced. The defending champion is a spring horse, and thrives at Cheltenham, finishing second in the Supreme Novices, before a good third when favourite in the Champion Hurdle before his victory last year. Champion jockey AP McCoy has said it his best chance of the week, and I think the horse will have too much speed for these rivals, bolting clear in the straight to successfully defend his Champion Hurdle crown. Menorah should be able to plug on for a place, as is the toughness of the horse. Khyber Kim can build on his reappearance behind Binocular in the Christmas hurdle to fill out the placings.

Predictions

1. Binocular
2. Menorah
3. Khyber Kim

Jack Milner

Reveley's to carry on a family tradition

BARDOLET runs for the in form Reveley family in the 3.50 at Catterick on Wednesday, and has to be strongly fancied. The father and son partnership has been in impressive form this season, especially at northern tracks. Son and jockey, James is showing an £11.55 profit and father Keith a £34.45 profit for £1 staked on all runners this season. Bardolet finished a very good second to Duke of Ormond after a 49 day break last time out, and looks to be running off a very good handicap mark, receiving 11lb from top weight and expected favourite Topless. The Reveley’s won this race last year, and I expect Bardolet to run a big race for the duo once more.

The same partnership has another good chance at the same meeting, with FLORIDA’s PRIDE, who runs in the mares novice hurdle at 4.20. The mare ran in three novice hurdle races this time last year finishing eleventh, fourth and then second, gradually improving with each run. She has since been running on the flat, before reverting to hurdles last time out. She disappointed that day, finishing a 44 lengths sixth and well beaten, weakening badly 4 out before being eased down. However, she has had a break of 116 days and this may well have freshened her up.

The final horse is LANEGUY, our midweek Nap, who can defy a 7lb penalty, incurred after winning easily last time out. Trainer Tom George has had a renaissance in March, after a bit of a winner-drought in the first two months of the year. For the year he has a 9.5% strike rate, but in March the strike rate has been 30%, so he is a trainer bang in form. Laneguy won by 9 lengths last time out on soft ground, and seemed to really suit being dropped back in trip, running over 2m 1f, and now being dropped again to 2 miles, which should be further to his benefit.

Bardolet 3.50 Catterick Wednesday 1pt ew

Florida’s Pride 4.20 Catterick, Wednesday 1pt ew

Laneguy 2.00 Wincantion Thursday 3pt win NAP.