1:50 Musselburgh (Saturday 30th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

Toteplacepot Racing's Favourite Bet Conditions Stakes over 5f on good to soft ground. Seven two-year-olds compete, three raced, including one winner, two fillies against the boys. Mick's Yer Man made an impressive winning debut in the Brocklesby on the first day of the Flat turf season. By all accounts that was a solid, professional performance and even with a small penalty there could be more to come. Bill Turner has a decent string of juveniles and this colt could well be one of his better winners. Experience can be a huge advantage and with a proven level of ability he sets a stiff task for all opponents. This son of Bahamian Bounty could well be a fair juvenile. 

The Brocklesby was a starting point for another of today's runners *Donny Rover. This son of Excellent Art is owned by Willie McKay, who dug deep to buy this bay colt from the yearling sales for 95,000euros. The mare was Listed-placed, although enjoyed a trip. Charles Smith trains a number of horses for McKay and this is an intriguing sort. There was a good word for this juveniles at Doncaster but all chance had gone with a tardy start. Donny Rover is an attractive colt who could improve significantly on his disappointing 6th when left trailing behind Mick's Yer Man. I would expect to see a much better performance today.

Intense Feeling is the only other horse with experience. This daughter of Intense Focus was a cheap yearling purchase and owned by Mrs Evans. She was well backed on debut at Lingfield and showed good pace until tiring in the latter stages. The winner won in comfortable style and the 5th, Outback Lover, won next start. Although this brown filly has valuable experience I would have concerns this will be a tough task. It is a concern to see her entered for a Selling Stakes. Others make more appeal.

The debutantes will need to be primed and pretty smart juveniles to win. However, it is worth noting that Stakes races often spring a surprise or too. For many trainers this race type it is a sign they fancy their chances. Even with such optimism this looks a competitive heat for their racecourse bow.

Lilo Lil was a cheap purchase and part owned by trainer Griffiths. Best watched.

The debutantes of most note hail from leading two-year-old stables. Scargill, Skye's The Limit & Vine De Nada are worthy of respect.

Skye's The Limit is a chestnut colt sired by Pastoral Pursuits. He cost 32,000gns at the yearling sales. The stable have a very good strike rate at the course although David Nolan could be considered a negative jockey booking. With so many meetings taking place it could be the case the stable are pressed for riders and he may ride this youngster on the gallops. This stable can prime a debutante and they often run big races. As they trained Lord Clyde to finish third in the Brocklesby, Fahey may have a line to Mick's Yer Man.  One of the more likelier types.

Mark Johnston is a superb trainer although I find his debutante exceptionally difficult to call. As I have mentioned many times before, they fall into two groups; easy winners or disappointments. Vine De Nada is a relatively cheap purchase at 13,000gns. The mare won on debut when trained by Ed Dunlop, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, the breeder of this youngster. The stable's juveniles are often slow to come to hand and all too frequently struggle with a slow start. I would rather watch and learn.

Scargill is an early foal, being born in February, so could be forward. He looks to be  a home bred by the versatile stallion Sixties Icon, who Mick Channon done so well with last season. The stable's juveniles can win on debut. The shorter the price the better, so money would be encouraging. Even with this in mind, the stable have few debutante winners priced over 11/2. 

Conclusion: Mick's Yer Man won the Brocklesby in some style and even with a small penalty must take some beating. I would never be tempted to back at short odds as Stakes races can be a can of worms. However, I would be surprised if he doesn't win. Of the rest, I would expect a much improved performance from Donny Rover. He is difficult to assess but I can see a bold show from this youngster. I would take a watching brief with Vine De Nada. Scargill is another to watch if weak in the market. Skye's The Limit has claims but another who needs to be primed to deprive Turner's winner his second victory.

*NR

Take a look at 1:45 Kempton race analysis from We Go Racing  


Richard Fahey - 2yo Talk

Two-Year-Olds

Lord Clyde
He ran in the Brocklesby and shaped well in third. I was delighted with him - he looked like a hairy goat and hated the ground. I'll just give him a little break now.

We have a lot of exciting juveniles to look forward to. Kindanyce and Skye's The Limit are among the more forward and could run at Kempton and Musselburgh this weekend. The latter is quite nice but this wouldn't be his track. If he was able to win over five there he's a decent horse.

Dutch Courage is a filly I like. She hasn't done anything serious but does everything right and looks one to look forward to for Cheveley Park Stud who are new owners in the yard. I also have to pass on a positive word for Kalahari Kingdom. He's a very nice son of Footstepsinthesand.

We'll have a few runners in the early maidens but in general we have more late-maturing types this season who will progress with time. It's very early days with them all.

The William Hill Lincoln Saturday 30th March 3:05 Doncaster

I would like to thank Paul of PGR Sports for writing this post, especially after he wrote the earlier preview, which was abandoned due to bad weather. 

It may have been delayed a week but tomorrow at 3:05 we finally get to marvel at the sight of 22 runners charging down the Doncaster straight in the 2013 William Hill Lincoln Handicap. The going like last week remains soft meaning this year’s renewal will be a testing examination of each contenders credentials, there are a few changes in the entries from last week’s original line up with the draw also taking place again yesterday so with that in mind let’s take a look through the runners & riders making up the field for the £62,250 first prize.

Firstly the draw: This week the draw may not be as big a factor as it would have been last week with racing taking place on the Friday before. There are 3 races before post time meaning the ground nearest the rails could be slightly worse than in the middle so horses drawn in the extreme wide stalls maybe at a slight disadvantage however looking at the draw there is also an even split of the more fancied runners for instance current favourite for the race Captain Bertie is drawn low in 7 with John Gosdens fancied runner Lahaag drawn alongside in stall 6 meanwhile Eshtibaak is drawn high in stall 20 with the race fit & in form Strictly Silver higher still in 22. More importantly for me though is the state of the ground & which horse are proven to act on it. Let’s take a look at the horses that have some form with decent cut in the ground which brings the following horses into contention: Chapter Seven, Memory Cloth, Global Village, Justonefortheroad, Swiftly Done, Jacks Revenge, Chosen Character, Capaill Liath as well as 2 horses we mentioned earlier Lahaag & Captain Bertie. I believe it’s this group of hoses we should focus on. Memory Cloth is a dangerous prospect on this ground in fact if the conditions were to worsen then this one’s price should fall considerably, he’s been running in some valuable handicaps at York, Goodwood & Ascot on good & good to firm ground without troubling the frame however his last win came on heavy ground over 7f at Newcastle in June last year beating reigning Lincoln champ Brae hill so do not write off this one’s chances on this ground, currently available at 25/1. Justonefortheroad is another that will relish the underfoot conditions & has shown in the past that racing in the spring after a lengthy break is no problem at all Richard Fahey will have this one ready to race & last time out in Oct beat an improving type who was well fancied to win this when the race was originally due to run last week, currently available at 16/1. Swiftly Done flopped last time out in the Cambridgeshire however that was on good ground over 9f I like the form of this one when there’s cut in the ground , wins last june both over C&D here & at Newcastle were followed by a good display at Glorious Goodwood in the Betfred Mile again on good ground beaten only 3 ¾ lengths. This is another that runs fresh & should not be crossed out at a big price, currently available at 25/1. Jacks Revenge & Chosen Character are 2 horses drawn in the middle & will both appreciate the testing conditions, I see both of these as improving types, Jacks revenge goes well fresh & Chosen Character will try to run up with the pace, both can currently be backed at 25/1.

Lahaag: This was the horse last week chosen to represent last season’s formidable big race duo of John Gosden & William Buick however with Buick opting for the heat of Meydan over the snow of Doncaster Robert Havlin takes the ride. The lightly raced 4 y-o has won 2 of his 4 starts with those wins coming on ground that was good to firm & good to soft, however last time out he was beaten just a head over 9f on soft ground at York by Chapter seven in a 3 y-o class 2 handicap he meets that rival again here on similar terms with both horses similarly improving types. Lahaag is unexposed & with the ground not an issue & having had only 4 races in a fledgling career this a definite lively contender & is available at 8/1.

Global Village: Trained by Brian Ellison recent history is against this horse winning the race with just a solitary 8-y-o winner in the past 32 years, however his two most recent wins were picked up in soft ground handicaps last year most notably in the Victoria Cup at Ascot however he has gone up 6lbs in the weights since that race. A plus for punters looking to side with the experienced older horses is that the horse comes into this race having had a run just 3 weeks ago over 9f at Southwell finishing just 4&¾ lengths behind Strictly Silver a horse well fancied by his trainer to take this race with any sort of decent ground however Rob Havlins mount today has a useful pull in the weights from that race at Southwell. Global Village is available at 14/1.

Of the others we have not mentioned there are a couple that are plenty short enough in the betting so why have we not given them a second glance? Majestic Myles, Dance & Dance, Arsaadi & Prince of Johanne are all plenty high enough in the weights however Marco Botti has an exciting prospect in the shape of Solar Deity who was the winner of a listed race on the Wolverhampton all weather over 7f last time out however like many in this field there’s a big enough doubt over him going on the ground.

So taking all the above into account it’s time to pick a winner, well I will leave that to you. My advice would be back a couple each way at a double figure price as favourites have a dreadful record in the race & with 22 runners on testing ground anything really could happen. I like Jacks revenge & Swiftly Done each way at 25/1.

Red Rum: The Making of a National Hero

The Grand National is synonymous with one horse - Red Rum. This champion thoroughbred racehorse won this prized steeplechase in 1973, 1974 & 1977. In the two intervening years he finished second. The ultimate test of horse & jockey was tamed by his supreme efforts, an achievement which to this day has been unequaled. Remarkably, Red Rum never fell in 100 races.

On Saturday 6th April, viewers across the world will remember the achievements of a truth racing legend & enjoy a racing spectacle - 2013 Grand National.

Red Rum was bred at Rossenarra Stud, in Kells, County Kilkenny, Ireland by Martyn McEnery. His name a creation of the first three letters of his mother & father. This bay son of Quorum out of a mare called Mared was born on the 3rd May 1965. 

Although bred to be a miler, he started his career as a sprinter, dead heated at 5f at Aintree, which used to feature Flat racing even before its steeplechase status. He was once ridden by Lester Piggott.

In many ways Red Rum's story began when he was purchased by Ginger McCain for his new owner Noel le Mare. McCain, a Southport car dealer, trained the horse on the sands at Southport, Merseyside. The sea water was said to have helped ease an incurable bone disease of his feet. In fact, his trainer took him for a therapeutic swim in the sea of Southport before his first National appearance. 

In 1973, Red Rum beat Australian chaser Crisp in a new course record. Crisp looked to have the race won with a impressive lead over the last fence but jockey Brian Fletcher collared him at the line in what has been called the greatest Grand National in history. Richard Pitman who wrote the second horse said: ''I still dream about that race, of Crisp running so strongly and jumping so fearlessly, and then the sound of Red Rum's hooves as he got closer and closer at the end. I felt as though I was tied to a railway line with an express train thundering up and being unable to jump out of the way.''  

In 1974, he won his second National when carrying 12 stone. The intervening years so him finish a gallant second. However, there was contention between Fletcher & McCain, which led to Tommy Stack taking the latter of the rides, after Fletcher angered the outspoken trainer by telling the press the horse didn't feel right after losing in preparation for the race in 1975. Red Rum always saved his best for the National and at the grand old age of 12 he achieved his record third in 1977. 

Commentator, Peter O'Sullivan described the moment:

''The crowd are willing him home now. The 12-year-old Red Rum, being preceded only by loose horses, being chased by Churchtown Boy... They're coming to the elbow, just a furlong now between Red Rum and his third Grand National triumph! He gets a tremendous reception, you've never heard one like it at Liverpool... and Red Rum wins the National!''

Red Rum was prepared for his 6th Grand National but retired after suffering a hairline fracture the day before the race. 

He may no longer been able to race but his celebrity status saw him leading the Grand National parade for many years. Among his guest appearances he switched on the Blackpool illuminations. 

Red Rum passed away on 18th October 1995, aged 30. Such was his popularity that it made headlines of national newspapers. Fittingly, he was buried at the winning post of the Aintree racecourse. His headstone reads: 

 ''Respect this place/ this hallowed ground/ a legend here/ his rest has found/ his feet would fly/ our spirits soar/ he earned our love for evermore''

Champion jockey, Tony McCoy said of the great horse: ''Red Rum's feats, of three Nationals and two seconds, are legendary. They will never be equalled, let alone surpassed. They say records are there to be broken, but Red Rum’s at Aintree is one which will stand the test of time.''

On Saturday 6th April the world will remember Red Rum. 

Grand National Infographic

Grand National 2013 - An infographic by the team at Bet Victor

Your Guide to the Grand National 2013 Meeting

The Grand National three-day meeting at Aintree, from Thursday April 4th - Saturday 6th features the most famous steeplechase in the world: The John Smith's Grand National. What a fantastic meeting we have in store. 

Take a look at the schedule:

Thursday: April 4th -Grand Opening Day - racing highlights include the Bowl Chase, the Aintree Hurdle & the Fox Hunters' Chase, run over the Grand National fences.


Friday: Ladies Day:April 5th - all the girls get dressed to the nines to enjoy highlights such as the Melling Chase, the Sefton Novices hurdle & the Topham Chase which sees horses jumping the National fences. This day is not only about top class racing but a superb social occasion. 

Saturday: April 6th - the big day arrives - the John Smith's Grand National. Are you ready for the most famous steeplechase in the world? Don't forget this is just part of a great day's entertainment with the Liverpool Hurdle, Maghull Novices' Chase and Mersey Novices' Hurdle.

Exceptional race action. 


Love the Grand National?

Grand National Trivia

This historic handicap steeplechase is run over 4 mile 4 furlong at Aintree and sponsored by John Smith's. It was first run in 1839. The Grand National is televised in 140 countries and viewed by an audience of 600 million. Horses jump 30 fences including Bechers' Brook, Foinavon, the Canal Turn & The Chair over two grueling circuits. 

It is considered the ultimate test of horse & jockey. 

Did you know...

The Grand National is the most valuable National Hunt race in Britain. In 2012 the prize fund was £975,000.

Noted races include...

Tipperary Tim who won in 1928. Amazingly 41 of the 42 runners fell. William Dutton landed the odds at 100/1. This race still holds the record as the fewest number of finishers.

Foinavon proved that you sometimes you need a little bit of luck when winning in 1967. This 100/1 was lagging 100 yards behind the pack when a loose horse named Popham Down caused mayhem at the 23rd fence hampering or unseating most of the field. Foinavon had time to steer round the havoc and none of the opposition had time to catch him.

Red Rum is a true legend of this race winning three times in the 1970s. Trained by the late Ginger McCain, he won the Grand National in 1973, 1974 & 1977. He finished second in 1975 & 1976. 

Few people will ever forget Bob Champion's win in 1981 aboard Aldantini. Two years before this race, Champion had been given only months to live after being diagnosed with cancer. Aldaniti had recovered from chronic leg problems but the pair went on to beat SpartanMissile by four and half lengths in an emotional victory. Their story was made into a film, Champions, starring John Hurt.

Grand National Records:

Fastest winning time: Mr Frisk (1990) 8 minute 48 seconds
Oldest winning horse: Peter Simple (1853) 15 years 
Youngest winning jockey: Bruce Hobbs (1938) 17 years old
Longest winning odds: 5 horses have won at 100/1
Largest field: (1929) 66 runners
Smallest field: (1883) 10 runners

Who will win this year?

Leading fancies include On His Own trained by Willie Mullins, Seabass, Cappa Blue, Colbert Station, Sunnyhillboy & Chicago Grey to name just a few.  

The race which keeps a nation of hearts jumping.
       

5:50 Wolverhampton (Wednesday, 27th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

A Maiden Auction Stakes over 5f 20y on standard going. Seven two-year-olds take part, a mix of colts and fillies from early-season trainers. 

This looks a tricky race to assess with only one horse with experience.

Bill Turner got off to his customary flying start when Mick's Yer Man won the Brocklesby in style on the first day of the Flat turf season. His second runner didn't keep the 100% record, although that colt ran on with purpose at the line. Jake Payne takes the ride on Sunshine Superman, a son of Captain Gerrard, who was purchased by the trainer for £1,100 at the yearling sales. The mare was unraced, although bred to need a trip. As stated before, Turner doesn't feature as good a strike rate with his debutantes as pundits enthuse. In fact, their juveniles often struggle to win first start. The Brocklesby victory is still fresh in punters' minds and could well be a horse to take a watching brief if a short price.

Outback Lover is the only horse to have raced so far, one of two juveniles fielded by Stan Moore. This bay, by first season sire Bushranger, is on the small side. Fillies come in all shapes and sizes so it doesn't pay to be dogmatic about their standing although this March foal had the physique of a plater. That initial experience could be worth a lot, especially on this turning track, where immaturity can be costly. That first effort at Lingfield left me with the impression connections didn't hold any aspirations of winning. It is difficult to imagine the worth of that form as the winner never looked to be troubled and the majority of the field were on a steep learning curve. Egan takes off a valuable 3lb, and from a low draw is likely to press on.  If relatively fancied in the betting she has fair win and place claims although I have reservations. 

The other stable representative is Far Gaze. This Amercian bred colt was a cheap buy for 2,000euros.  The mare won on debut in a three-race career. The main point of interest regarding this colt is that he was one of two juveniles entered by Moore to run in the Brocklesby. They were both withdrawn most probably due to testing ground conditions, suggesting the all weather surface will be more suiting. In previous years, the Brocklesby entry has been a positive sign for this stable, with the majority of the sample going on to win in their juvenile career. However, most won on their second start. I would imagine Far Gaze will be a better horse than Outback Lover. However, it would be a fair effort to win on debut.

Left Defender is Jo Hughes fourth two-year-old runner of the season. The stable have about 20 juveniles at Hill House Stables. This bay colt was purchased by the trainer from the yearling sales for £3,000. This son of Camacho is out of an unraced Irish mare and top weight for this event. There was good money for both juveniles in the race where Outback Lover finished fifth, with the stable taking second place, while the heavily backed Marilyn Marquessa disappointed after showing good pace. A difficult horse to assess but a stable who like to gamble so worth keeping an eye on the market.

Richard Guest isn't renowned for two-year-old winners and the majority of his juveniles are limited, most needing the experience. Clumber Place won on debut in 2008,  after being well backed. *Will To Survive was a 1,500euro purchase from the yearling sales. The only positive is that this youngster makes an early start to his career because some of the stable's better prospects have been their first runners. However, unless seriously backed it would be wise to take a watching brief.

*Gin Time hails from David Evans' stable. This March foal, a daughter of Kalanisi, is owned by his wife and a cheap buy. Ty Derlwyn Farm, have about 14 two-year-olds in training and they generally aim to run most of their juveniles in the first few months of the season. The sire was a talented horse from Sir Michael Stoute. However, you would have to consider this trip looks a touch sharp. I always find this stable very difficult to call with their debutantes. Money would be a positive but a few question marks on the breeding front and wide draw doesn't make for easy reading.

Memory Styx looks the most interesting horse on paper and comes from a stable which deserves respect. This daughter of Clodovil is the most expensive in the field at £14,000 and related to fair horses including half-sister Watneya, who won on debut when trained by William Haggas. The mare made a winning three-year-old debut for Mick Channon over one mile and a limited handicapper. From a statistical point of view this grey holds the best chance although this minimum trip could well be on the sharp side. This horse makes most appeal as the winner.

Conclusion: It is best to take these early-season two-year-old races as works in progress. They are part of a much bigger picture and form takes time to become established. The betting is a good pointer. Outback Lover has the advantage of experience although she is a on the small side. I can see her sneaking a place but may struggle to win. Unless there is substantial money for Left Defender &  Will To Survive they are best watched. Gin Time looks to need a further trip. I find Evans debutantes impossible to assess. I would take a watching brief but respect they can win when readied. Similarly, Sunshine Superman wouldn't be my type of bet if favourite. Far Gaze is worth noting for the future and likely to win this season. Moore's youngster can win on debut and it isn't beyond the realm this horse could go well. Memory Styx looks the the sort to go well but this doesn't look a betting race to me. 

Note: Sunshine Superman, Will To Survive & Gin Time have been entered to run in a selling race at Warwick, which suggests they are no world beaters. 

Take a look at We Go Racing, who not only have a great website, but a superb 2yo racing page.


*NR

Karl ''The National Man'' Wales Ante Post Selections

The 2013 Grand National is getting closer by the day. It's the most popular race for the general public and that's why we like to tell the world and his wife that we are not just about two-year-old horse racing. Now, I'm not saying I know too much about the National Hunt. I'm not Jack of all trades and master of none. HCE is expert in one subject. However, as seen with our great coverage of the Cheltenham Festival, we have lots of great contacts. You'd be surprised who I've talked to in my time. Well, I received a message this week from Karl ''The National Man'' Wales. I must admit last year wasn't a vintage result but he isn't the National Man for no reason. I've never seen or heard anything like his success in this race. It would be like reading Alan Sugar's CV. Karl has given me a selection of ante post horses which we will be following with interest. He details:  Balthazar King 25/1, Tatenan 100/1, Chicago Grey 16/1, Quel Esprit 33/1, Quinz 66/1, Wierd Al 40/1, Across The bay 33/1 and Joncol 66/1..... He will reduce it to 4 nearer the time. I know it seems a good few horses but trust me, he knows what he's doing. I'm following all these horses myself so fill ya boots. Thanks, Karl.

2:10 Lingfield (Sunday, 24th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

Ashurstwood Maiden Stakes over 5f on standard going. Eight two-year-olds make their debut, a colt and gelding against a field of fillies.  A predictable mix of early-season trainers and a cheap bunch considering this is a maiden. 

Not the easiest of races to assess and the betting will be a significant pointer. 

Bill Turner has started the Flat season with a bang after Mick's Yer Man ran out an easy winner of the Brocklesby Stakes. This February foal - a son of Byron - was a cheap yearling purchase at 3,500gns. It is worth noting that although Turner is known as a two-year-old trainer he doesn't feature the best win rate with his debutantes. The Brocklesby is a race he targets with his better if not best juvenile and that impressive win could well result in this bay colt being priced on the short side. If betting on El Duque, I would be tempted to wait until near the off because if this is one of his lesser light there could be a marked drift in the betting. Ryan While takes off a good few pounds and with mostly fillies in opposition it brings more confidence but I would rather take a watching brief with fears that the buzz surrounding  Mick's Yer Man's victory may equate to poor value.

Hedy is a chestnut daughter of Winker Watson, who was a precocious juvenile, when trained by Peter Chapple-Hyam. The mare enjoyed a greater trip which may suggest this youngster will be better over further. The betting is particularly important to this stable and the majority of their winning juveniles are fancied to go well. Interestingly, they do not feature as high a strike rate as pundits imagine. However, of all the trainers in this race, this horse would be the statistical choice. If this April foal was a heavily backed it would give further hope. 

David Evans fields a couple of runners in the shape of Smugglers Gold & Intense Feeling. He is likely to have a fair idea of their standing after Vodka Time finished second in the Brocklesby. It is worth noting that Smugglers Gold was entered to run in the Brocklesby but takes this route. In past years, this has often been a fair indicator to ability. This gelding was a relatively cheap yearling purchase, although the owner had some success with Jack My Boy a few years back. The stable don't have the best strike rate at this course and they can be a difficult outfit to judge. A low draw is a positive.

On jockey bookings Intense Feeling looks to be seconds string. However, it is worth keeping an eye on the betting as this stable are canny and money talks. If significantly backed, take note.

A similar comment can be made for Jo Hughes representatives. At present, Diamond Lady and Marilyn Marquessa are unfancied on the betting exchanges. Money talks with this stable and if well backed it would be a positive.

Outback Lover was an incredibly cheap purchase at £500. This daughter of Bushranger is out of a once-raced winning mare. The stable do not feature the best strike rate on debut although they do have the odd speculative priced debutante, so it's not beyond the realms. Probably best watched.

M'Selle is the most expensive yearling purchase in the field at 19,000euros, bought by Ron Harris, from Goffs.  This bay filly is a daughter of Elnadim out of a Listed-placed mare. The stable often struggle to win on debut although Mrs Brown's Boys ran out an easy winner on his first start last season. A wide draw on this turning course is far from ideal and it would be enough of a concern to put me off betting.

Conclusion: A difficult race to assess with ifs and buts about most of these. The betting is likely to be the best guide. If fancied in the betting, Hedy has the strongest claims from a statistical point of view. With Bill Turner's first runner winning the Brocklesby in stylish fashion, I would have slight concerns that El Duque may be poor value. I would definitely wait for the betting to settle if making a wager. The stable do not feature the greatest strike rate with their debutantes, which tempers enthusiasm. Smugglers Gold catches the eye being entered for the Brocklesby. However, I find the Evans stable a law unto themselves and difficult to judge. At this early stage of the season, I would have to take a watching brief. 

1:25 Doncaster (Friday, 22nd March) Free Horse Racing Tips

William Hill Download The App Brocklesby Conditions Stakes over 5f on soft ground (heavy in places). It's great to be back with the first two-year-old contest of the Flat turf season. Seventeen juveniles take part from twenty three declared at the first entry stage. Four fillies take on a field of colts/geldings, a mix of trainers of varying standards.  

This race has lost a little of its lustre in recent years but many a good horse has started its career in this event. Jack Berry's Mind Games & more recently Hearts Of Fire - trained by Pat Eddery - won before going on to achieve Black Type, the latter winning at Group 1. Exceptional talents, and reason why this race deserves credit. 

So what are we to make of this year's contest? Firstly, the weather could play its part with an 8am inspection. Snow is forecast for the weekend, especially Saturday's card. Fingers cross racing  goes ahead. There is likely to be a few non runners so it could pay to bet late if having a wager. 

Testing ground may have a significant impact on the traditional high draw advantage and this could prove problematic if the field split in two groups. 

Few trainers come close to Richard Fahey. With well over 70 juveniles at Mews House, if this is one of his better early runners it would take all the beating. Interestingly, this stable have almost an equal win rate with their fancied juveniles on both first and second start, which is an exceptionally rare occurrence.  Very few trainers feature a win rate anywhere near those of horses on their second start.

Lord Clyde is a chestnut son of Sakhee's Secret out of a winning mare who was owned by the Queen (same breeder) and very much a sprinter. This April foal was purchased for 28,000gns but sold for 15,000gns as a yearling. It's good to see Hanagan taking the ride, and if there isn't an adverse draw bias, being just off the rail could prove positive. One of the more interesting horses in the field.

One trainer who cannot be ignore in the Brocklesby is Bill Turner. He has an outstanding record in this race and he generally sends one of his better - if not best - two-year-old to compete. Mick's Yer Man cost £21,000 at the yearling sales and owned by Turner's daughter, who struck gold last season when selling Judy In Disguise, who won her first two starts, to Eclipse Thoroughbred Partnership. This son of Bahamian Bounty has just turned two, out of an unraced mare. Turner is a dab hand at training juveniles and using his apprentice [grandson] to take off a valuable 7lb could be a wise move in these testing conditions. Surprisingly, the stable do not attain a very good strike rate with their debutantes but this race has been a happy hunting ground. The stable have around twenty juveniles in their string, which is a marked increase on last year.  Ryan While is a talented jockey and a high draw will mean they can run just off the rail. This bay colt is likely to run up with the pace and if past performances are a good guide this colt must have each way claims.

*Sleepy Joe hails from another powerhouse of a stable. Mick Channon's bay colt cost £25,000 as a yearling. The trainer has had rather indifferent results in this race and I would use the betting as the best guide. Their juveniles are often quoted as winning machines on debut but statistics suggest that many are better for the race. If strongly fancied in the betting I would take note but if drifting to double figures best watched.

Picks Pinta hails from the Jo Hughes stable and they know the score when it comes to ability. If seriously backed, I would follow the money.   

Another trainer who targets this race is Mel Britain. He fields Sleaford - owned by the trainer - and Bridge Of Avon. The former is a cheap American bred purchase at just £800 and he may have been an unruly type because he was gelded as a yearling. This March foal has breeding suggesting this 5f may be a little on the sharp side. However, the trainer can have big priced winners and isn't someone to ignore. Last year Duran Fentiman rode Mayfield Girl who went a close third at 33/1 and a fair juvenile. Bridge Of Avon was purchased by Britain as a yearling for £5,000. 

The charismatic Michael Easterby proved he can train a winning two-year-old when My Boy Bill ran from off the pace to take the 2012 Brocklesby. He looked to be a fair juvenile but was quoted as being temperamental and proved most disappointing on his next few starts.  Kraka Gym is a bay gelding who cost £20,000 as a yearling. The mare needed a trip and, in general, the stable have a poor strike rate on debut. The exception would be if this youngster is backed to single figure prices. 

The low drawn Vodka Time is owned by Mrs Evans, and quite costly at 20,000euros. David Evans doesn't let the grass grow under his feet and his two-year-olds are trained to excel in the first few months of the season. The stable don't have the best strike rate with their debutantes but he is a very difficult trainer to assess. You can guarantee they will have winners although his runners in this race over the last few years have been either in need of the experience or limited. A difficult horse to assess.       

Stan Moore have sent a couple of juveniles for this race, a format he has taken in past years. Most runners have been in need of the run although he is another handler who can find speculative priced winners. *Far Gaze & *Mr Childrey were both relatively cheap purchases. It is worth noting that Moore's Brocklesby entrants often go on to win, especially on their second start. 

Last but not least is Charles Smith's Donny Rover. To be fair, if this horse wasn't owned by Willie McKay I wouldn't give it must interest simply because Smith has so few juveniles in training. However, it wouldn't be the biggest surprise to hear that this bay colt - a son of Excellent Art - has been primed for this race. Readers may remember Doncaster Rover went close in this race when making his debut in 2008 in the same ownership, trained by Stuart Parr. This April foal cost 95,000euros, which is a significant buy in the context of many cheap buys. If fancied in the betting I would expect a big race. This youngster has an entry to run at Lingfield on Sunday so clearly ready roll.  

*Brockholes Flyer, Dovil's Duel, *Doncaster Belle, Mops Angel, Fuel Injection & Red Biba are best watched.  

Conclusion: The first two-year-old race of the season, soft ground, and question marks over the draw are not the best starting point for those looking to bet. The draw could be a killer blow for many of these and it is difficult to state whether high or long will be best. It wouldn't be a surprise for one or two to plough a lone furrow down the far side rail. Very few horses win this race priced over 14/1, although the favourites, at times, have been indifferent. Bill Turner is a fantastic trainer who annually marks this race as his own. Mick's Yer Man is the type to hit the frame. From a statistical point of view Lord Clyde has good claims. Fahey has won this race before and if forward is live contender. The betting is the best guide for Sleepy Joe, Kraka Gym & Picks Pinta. I wouldn't back any of these if double-figure prices. Outsiders with a live chance could be the Mel Britain's pair. Take note of Far Gaze & Mr Childrey on their seconds starts. Donny Rover is an intriguing horse. He cost quite a sum and Willie McKay likes to have winners at this course. If fancied he could go well. 

I will update the blog at 1:10 with regard to any suitable selections, although I will be very selective this season to keep standards high. It pays to watch the betting this early in the season and have patience. Lots of non runners and a difficult race to have any strong claims. Watching brief. 


*NR

New 2YO For The Mount Racing Club

It's that time again - a new crop of two-year-olds chomping at the bit. As High Class Equine is big news when it comes to classy juveniles we always keep our eyes open, and ear to the ground,  for all the latest events and pleased to highlight that one of our racing contacts has a new recruit in training with Karl & Elaine Burke at Spigot Lodge. Geoff Holden runs The Mount Racing Club and he is a true gentleman.

It always adds a touch of interest if we can follow the fortunes of one or two youngsters each season, just as we did last year with Somethingboutmary for Wildcard Racing. 

Well, this is what Geoff has to say: Eva Clare is a Bay Filly by Majestic Missile from a family with plenty of Black Type in the pedigree. She has a great temperament and has been an absolute dream to break in, everyone up at Spigot Lodge is really pleased with and can not speak highly enough of her. We watched her work last week and she is a very easy moving sort who is totally relaxed and has a willing attitude to learn. We are hoping to see her debut from May onwards and she already has an early entry in a valuable race at the Curragh on Saturday 24th August. We bought her from the Tattersalls yearling sales in Ireland and if she turns out to be as half as good as she looks we could be in for some enjoyable days out this season with her. Plenty of share deals available in her at prices that should suit all budgets. For more information visit The Mount Racing Club. Best wishes to the team. 

Top Ten Horse Racing Websites

Horse racing websites.  In truth, race fans have never had it so good! Now I'm sure you have your favourites - from familiar big names with vast readership to those niches websites which specialise within their field. They might have a fraction of the traffic of their peers, but none the less  they're outstanding  in their knowledge, data & resources. The most important factor for me is that all these websites are basically free to use. In the days before the internet where would we have been?  As High Class Equine specialise within two-year-old racing a few of our favourites will be of particular interest to our niche. Read more... because we want your input, too. 


Racing Post & Sporting Life

These two website are probably the most recognised in the industry and very few punters would get by without their daily input. Whether you want race cards, data or resulst they are an excellent resource. Personally, I prefer the format of the Racing Post with regard to its race cards, although the Sporting Life seem to be much quicker off the mark with their results. Also, the latter show Racing UK (RUK)  ace review free if you have an open an account with Sky Bookmakers. Both websites are excellent covering all sports & news. I really would be lost without these big guns. 

At The Races

Another familiar name, this website is an offshoot of the racing channel featured on Sky 415. This website has race cards, results, and most importantly you can watch live racing and review past performances. A great database for dedicated race fans which means you can do away with the dvd recorder. Also, the ATR Tracker is a handy feature which allows you follow your chosen horses.      

British 2yo Racing

A lot of punters may not have heard of this website but it is a cracking resource for those who follow the juveniles. They detail a wide variety of information and ideas to help you understand and analyse the 2yo season highlighting Paddock Reviews & Trainer targets. They also feature Articles, Picture Archive, A - Z of Sires from 2002 - 2012, Individual Trainer Reviews for nearly 700 Stables. Their 2002 - 2012 2yo Racing Review features a brilliant database, which really needs to be seen. 

Horse Trainer Directory

This new website has burst onto the scene and a very useful portal to Flat & National Hunt Trainer Websites, Blogs & Twitter Links. It is very easy to navigate and useful to those who want to know the latest news straight from the horse's mouth. The Trainer Locator is ideal for potential owners to find a stable on their doorstep. It also feature every UK racecourse website and twitter link so you can keep up to date with the latest information. No need to bookmark individual websites with this great facility. 



Now, I know what you are thinking...why has he only detailed 5 websites when the title says Top Ten Horse Racing Websites? Well, that's where you come into play. Please leave  a comment highlighting your favourites and we will add the most popular to our list.   

1:30 Cheltenham ( Friday, 15th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

1.30 JCB Triumph Hurdle

The top three in the market look a cut above the rest in this. Our Conor represents Ireland and has a tall reputation. He beat a couple of good horses at Fairyhouse in a grade 3 and then beat Diakali in a Grade 1 at Leopardstown. That sets the standard. Far West has got valuable course winning form but it doesn't look quite up to the level of Our Conor. Rolling Star beat the smart Irish Saint last time who followed up in a Grade 2 at Kempton. Cases can be made for all three but Our Conor may be a bit special.

1 pt win Our Conor 4/1 1st

What a great performance from Our Conor. Cruised to the lead. I actually used my William Hill C50 match bet on this tip and won £200. So it proves what these free bets are worth. Excellent tip from Sean. Brilliant.   

2.05 Vincent O'Brien County Handicap Hurdle

Cotton Mill is an easy selection for me in this. Raised five pounds for his second to My Tent or Yours in the Betfair Hurdle he should have the class to see this through. I'll be disappointed if he doesn't put in a bold show.

2 pts win Cotton Mill 7/1 Unp

Bryan Cooper is in flying form. Brilliant to see the young Irish jockey making a name for himself. Quite amazing. 

Visit our friend's website Bet-N-Tip  

2.40 Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle

At Fishers Cross has valuable course winning form beating the very useful The New One and Coneygree last time. That sets the standard and his main opponent in Ballycasey who's untried at this slightly longer trip. At Fishers Cross has the form in the bag and can outstay them all up the hill.

2 pts win At Fishers Cross 9/2 1st

Great win for McCoy, traveled well, and At Fisher's Cross ran off up the hill. Great tip from Sean Kelsey who gave this horse to me earlier in the week at 9/2. The highs and lows of racing with  J T McNamara injured and thoughts of Campbell Gillies.  Poignant words from McCoy.  

3.20 Cheltenham Gold Cup

A fascinating renewal of the Gold Cup. Bobs Worth probably sets the standard on his win in the Hennessey. Not seen since then he goes well when fresh and is unbeaten in four runs at the track. That counts for a lot but one thing the pundits appear to have missed is that he's never run on soft ground let alone won on it. This may be a coincidence of course but it does prevent me backing him with confidence if it is still really soft on Friday. Sir Des Champs has another great record at the track (unbeaten in two) but has beaten twice this year. One of my favourite horses, I've never really thought of him as being quite good enough to win a Gold Cup. Long Run will attempt to win back his crown. He's stepped up on his form last season and showed great resolve in getting up to win the King George at Kempton. Soundly beaten by Silviniaco Conti at Haydock I'd be surprised if he reverses that form. Silviniaco Conti is an improving horse and won easily last time at Newbury. He's never won at Cheltenham but was placed in a (very good) hurdles race and I don't have any concerns that he won't act on the track. 

2 pts win Silviniaco Conti 9/2 Fell

Silviniaco Conti was going well when falling three out. Great finish from the little terrier Bobs Worth. A superb winner. 

4.00 Foxhunter Chase

A hunter chase with amateur riders. No bet for me.

Couple of tips from our Twitter friends:

Tricky Trickster (themastarata)
Salsify (Martindawn)

Salsify wins but what cruel luck for Oscar Delta and Jane Mangan. How sad for the youngster to be denied what looked to be a winning ride. 

4.40 Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap

Too many runners still entered and very difficult however I have backed Barbatos in case he's goes here instead of the Coral Cup.

No bet.

5.15 Grand Annual Chase

A two mile handicap chase that Nicky Henderson will be keen to win. If the ground dries out a bit by Friday I'd be interested in French Opera at around 25/1. He's seems to have held his form and has been dropped a few pounds by the handicapper. He has a good record at the track and looks a little overpriced.

1 pt ew French Opera 25/1. Unp

I would like to thank our guest blogger, Sean Kelsey, for his great posts. Much appreciated.

1:30 Cheltenham (Thursday, 14th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

1.30 Jewson Novices Chase

This race revolves around Dynaste who has looked very impressive on his three chase starts. He'll be a banker of the meeting for many and it's hard to find much strength in depth in the opposition. Captain Conan hasn't impressed me at all and his neck beating of Third Intention last time does not look good enough to win this. Module is a very short price for what he's achieved. Aupcharlie has a more realistic chance but a top price 5/1 doesn't make him back-able each-way. Argocat won a Grade 2 at Limerick last time easily where Mikael D'Haguenet fell; at the time Argocat was going well and is taken to have beaten the fallen horse anyway. This form gives Argocat a realistic each-way chance and the price seems generous.

1 pt ew Argocat 14/1 Unp

Great win from Tony Martin's horse, beating the favourite, with a superb effort from the third at 100/1.  

2.05 Pertemps Final (Handicap Hurdle)

Ultra competitive; American Trilogy needs four horses to come out to get in the race. Off a mark of 136 the handicapper has definitely given him a chance. Got a good report from Dan Skelton on The Morning Line on Saturday - that wouldn't normally influence me but I'd already got this horse identified as being of interest so it tipped the balance. He acts on the track and should appreciate a big field and fast pace. Soft ground is probably my only concern although he has won on it before.

1 pt ew American Trilogy 20/1 Unp

Another big price winner ''and tribute to Campbell Gillies'' from Holywell's jockey Richie McLernon, trained by Jonjo O'Neill.    

2.40 Ryanair Chase

This is the race for Cue Card to prove he's top class. Unfortunately he has a tendency to hit a couple of fences in some of his races. First Lieutenant is favourite but we'll see whether the drop in trip will suit - I'd prefer him to go for the Gold Cup. Albertas Run won't get his good ground and Champion Court although talented has a knack of coming second instead of winning. Riverside Theatre did not run well at Kempton and didn't look at home on track last year, despite winning. Menorah looks held on form with Cue Card. Fingers crossed Cue Card jumps well.

1 pt win Cue Card 7/2 1st


Great win from Cue Card and Sean Kelsey fights back with a fantastic selection.   

3.20 Ladbrokes World Hurdle

The World Hurdle has been thrown wide open by the injury to Big Bucks but there is little strength in depth and I can't see beyond the first two in the betting. Reve de Sivola just shades it for me. I was really impressed with his last run where he kept pulling out a bit more and wouldn't let Oscar Whisky pass. Oscar Whisky isn't definitely better over two and a half miles and I'm not sure the slightly less soft ground will make a difference. It could be a close one though. The Irish challenge doesn't look up to it tome in this race.

2 pts win Reve de Sivola 4/1 4th

Note: William Hill best priced Solwhit 10/1 

Solwhit improved for the step up in distance to win well, while Celestial Halo (40/1) ran a cracker in second. Reve De Sivola was always up with the pace but just not quite good enough.  

4.00 Byrne Group Plate Handicap Chase

I selected Kapga de Cerisy for a race earlier in the week but he's a non-runner in that and may come here instead. He's worth a chance based on his sound beating of Fago last time. Ballynagour will be all the rage here but a rise of 20 pounds in the handicap is significant and despite the good record of favourites in this race is a little short for me at 4/1.

1 pt ew Kapga de Cerisy 14/1 Unp

4.40 Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Handicap Chase

An amateur jockeys handicap chase. Difficult to have a strong opinion in this but On Trend has the right sort of profile for this, winning a race at Sandown in early February on heavy ground over 3 miles.

1/2 pt ew On Trend 20/1 PU

Note: William Hill best priced Deal Done 40/1 


Thanks to Sean Kelsey for his superb guest posts

1:30 Cheltenham (Wednesday, 13th March) Free Horse Racing Tips

1.30 National Hunt Chase

This is a 4 mile chase for amateur riders. I've already backed Rose of the Moon at 40/1 and there's been a little bit of money for him and he's a best price 33/1 now. For the latest information check out the Racing Post for their Cheltenham betting. The last two winners of this race have been the official top rated. This years top rated is Back In Focus. He's unbeaten in four chase starts, has won over 3 miles and acts on the ground. The only question mark is his ability to stay the extra mile.

1 pt win Back In Focus 4/1 1st

Great performance from Back In Focus, who rallied to steal the race up the Cheltenham hill. 

2.05 – Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle

Pont Alexandre is the favourite for this and is the Irish Banker of the week. It's easy to see why. He's a relentless galloper and looks every inch a chaser in the making. On this side of the Irish Sea we have the equally hyped The New One who just got touched off last time at Cheltenham over a slightly longer trip when the jockey probably made his move too soon. Unfortunately the Twiston-Davies yard has had a few horses go sick and that's enough to put me off backing this at around 4/1. Tarquin Du Seuil is another to consider, only beaten by My Tent or Yours over a shorter trip, he looks sure to be competitive. Chatterbox cannot be discounted either; although this will be his first time over this longer trip, his sires progeny have a decent strike rate at this trip. Rule The World is a tentative selection in what is a really competitive race. He won a grade 2 at Naas in January easily beating Minsk and Champagne Fever. His only narrow defeat has come over a longer 3 mile trip and the 2 miles 5 furlongs should be ideal. At 9/1 he should go well.

Update: William Hill offer 2/1 Pont Alexandre (now 11/8) 

1pt win Rule The World 9/1 2nd

Great selection from Sean Kelsey at big odds (backed to 11/2) and a gallant 2nd. 

2.40 RSA Chase

Boston Bob seems a poor favourite to me. They all finished in a heap at Leopardstown last time and it's difficult to deduce who would finish in front when the first, third and fourth in that race line up again in this. The home challenge of Unioniste and Hadrians Approach look closely matched too.

No bet

Good word for Hadrian's Approach (6/1) from our Twitter friend mrossi11 3rd

Update: William Hill offer 5/1 Boston Bob (until further notice) (Fell when outstanding chance)

3.20 Queen Mother Champion Chase

Sprinter Sacre is probably the best National Hunt horse in training. I can't recommend a bet at 1/4 though. Corals are going evens to a maximum of £20 win on Sprinter Sacre. Now that is a good bet for the Champion Chase. Enjoy the race as they don't come along like this very often.

1 pt win Sprinter Sacre Evens (with Coral) 1st

Pure class. Exceptional talent. 

4.00 Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle

I've backed Barbatos for the Martin Pipe race on Friday assuming he was more likely to get in there. He needs nine above him in the handicap to come out to get in this race. Currently he's a best priced 25/1 and is worth backing in this too.

1 pt ew Barbatos 25/1 7th

A fair performance, running on, but never quite catching the leaders 

4.40 – Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle

This is a really tricky race. Paul Nicholls has quite a few entered in this and it's likely one of them will go very close. I'll be leaving it until the day to have a good look at this race.

No bet.

5.15 Weatherbys Champion Bumper

I haven't had a winner in this since Pizarro 11 years ago. I've now learnt my lesson.

No bet

I would like to thank Sean Kelsey for his superb analysis, the author of this post.