Monday, 31 August 2009

31st August

Running late...

2:00 Epsom
Intriguing race with a number of form horses. Not the easiest of events as it looks a trappy affair. Valiant Knight looks a consistent sort and likely to make a bold bid from the front. Interakt may not be the best of horses but is the type to run her race and could have each way claims. Kerchak is worth a look if backed as Jarvis has good win and place statistics on second start when fancied.

2:15 Newcastle
Mr Corby is running into form and will go close. If Unshakable Will is priced 13/2 & less at sp then Smart's juvenile has very good place claims and may sneak a win.

3:05 Warwick
I think Mufti has good win and place claims here. A couple of form horses in opposition, but Meehan's colt is capable of better.

BET: Mufti 1PT EW (AVAILABLE AT 4/1) (6th)

Sunday, 30 August 2009

30th August

A quiet day's racing.


2:20 Yarmouth
A fillies' maiden over 6f. Decorative has a few Group race entries and fancied to run well today. The Jarvis/Robinson combo has to be respected and the shorter the price of this juvenile the greater its chances of winning. Jarvis doesn't have the greatest win rate on debut and his two-year-olds often improve with racing so more of a watching horse for me. Wishbone didn't have any luck on debut when badly hampered which finished her chances that day. The form of that race isn't great so improvement is needed. Subtefuge was beaten in effortless fashion by Marine Spirit. Battlemaiden will appreciate this drop in distance after running well until tiring in the final furlong at Newmarket. A funny race to assess with the unraced Decorative needing to be forward and have ability, Wishbone being unproven and Subtefuge and Battlemaiden showing a glimmer of ability. If I had to stick my neck out, I would go with the form horses here.

2:35 Beverley
This doesn't look the best of races. No particular interest other than seeing how Ting Ting goes for Tom Tate. He has a number of juveniles owned by Mrs Fitri Hay and no doubt one or two of hers will have ability. This filly cost $180,000 and Tate features a decent win and place rate on debut.

Saturday, 29 August 2009

29th August

Eight two-year-old races today - most of no interest.

1:50 Newmarket

An interesting maiden with a selection of form horses trying to gain their first win. Dafeef, Lean Machine & Bonheurs Art have all shown ability. If I had to pick one of three it would be the latter. Not the easiest of races to assess and an each way price would be best. One horse that may go well at big odds is James Toller's Pirate's Song. I think this juvenile has ability but unsure whether he will need the run today.


A watching day.


Friday, 28 August 2009

28th August

Lots of two-year-old races today.


1:50 Newmarket
There was a lot to like about Pink Symphony's debut performance and she could well turn out to be a classy juvenile. That experience will do her the world of good and Cole's filly must go close here. I would be interested in her as a betting proposition at an each way price but that isn't going to happen. A good bet that will certainly give you a run for your money.


5:50 Newcastle
Novice Stakes races are never the most appealing of events unless you can get a speculative price, however, Perfect Ch'I is worth a mention. She is a capable filly and certainly sets the level for this field to meet. Many of these winners need to improve and Wood's filly could well take some beating as she doesn't lack when it comes to a battle.

A watching day.

Today's races:

Thursday, 27 August 2009

27th August

Just a few thoughts on today's racing.


2:30 Southwell

Emlfield Giant will appreciate this step up to a mile and is coming into form. Not the quickest of juveniles he will be running on at the finish and must go well. Keep an eye on the betting for Banana Republic as Cole has very good statistics for his fancied two-year-olds on their second start.

BET: 1 PT EW Banana Republic (available at 9/2) (2nd)

3:10 Ayr

Soft ground is always a concern so probably more of a watching race. Smart's Happy Dubai is a decent hope here, especially if an each way price is on offer.

3:50 Lingfield

Rakaan and Adele Blanc Sec are both capable sorts but the draw is not ideal. Almadaa looks speedy enough to lead for most but may struggle to finish as tired markedly last time in the final furlong. He may have suffered from a high draw and forced to run wide for much of the way and if lasting home will have a fair each way chance. Hughes has a good strike rate when riding for Jane Chapple-hyam, so Flotate may be worth noting especally if backed.

BET: 1/2 PT EW Almadaa (av

Wednesday, 26 August 2009

2:20 Catterick (26th August)

A very restricted auction race and many of these will be desperate to steal a win.

Bronze Beau doesn't lack for speed and this gelding probably ran his best race last time at Thirsk. Stubbs are a capable stable and this two-year-old should go close today.

Glen Shiel ran ok on debut. However, the form of that race looks weak and improvement is needed.

At her best My Mandy would take all the beating but she has hit a plateau and may be on the edge of regressing. William's filly has an element of speed and runs thereabouts but it just doesn't seem good enough to win. Not without a hope and holds place claims.

Goodbye Earl is up and down like a yo-yo. He is another who could have strong claims at his best but you never know what to expect with this character. He has had plenty of chances without winning and you have to wonder why today will be any different. The plus is that Eaves is riding.

A tricky race. Bronze Beau and My Mandy are likely to be the best of a poor lot but it will be good to see one of these get that elusive win.

A watching race.

Race review: 'A result that spoke volumes for many of these - a limited bunch with a number who just cannot attain their previous best form. Midgley has done well with his juveniles this year, especially in lower grade races, and Camacho Flyer led all the way with the first-time visor employed today. A run away success, he always had a healthy lead over Glen Shiel who was one of few to run on. Bronze Beau was always thereabout but couldn't do much more.'

Tuesday, 25 August 2009

25th August

Not much happening today with two races at Southwell - a stakes race and auction event - and neither have much interest bar watching, so I will have a good review of recent races and take a look at tomorrow's cards.

Monday, 24 August 2009

2:30 Windsor (24th August)

A maiden over 6f for colts and one filly.

A few form horses and a number of debutantes.

Sunraider was a well backed on debut and may have been a shade unlucky that day after being behind a wall of horses and ran on well at the line. The form of that race may not be that strong but Hills juvenile is a lovely looker and improvement could be on the cards.

Gallant Eagle ran well on debut from a race that has worked out very well but his running at Salisbury was something of a let down. Connections seemed to suggest that it was due to the fast ground, which seems rather strange why they would return to similar conditions. Perhaps it was just a bad day but there is still a lot to answer.

Many of the unraced don't seem too fancied in the betting which doesn't bode well for their chances. One juvenile which may have a live chance at a big price is Sternlight trained by Ed McMahon and owned by John Fretwell. McMahon is a fantastic trainer of two-year-olds and his win and place percentages speak for themselves. As an added bonus he can often win at a speculative price. Certainly worth a punt at a price as in the long term you won't go far wrong with this combination.

BET: 1PT EW Sternlight (available at 16/1) (8th)


Race review:'A win for Sunraider who was very well backed. Robinson Cruso ran a good race and looked to have a fighting chance of winning for much of the final furlong. A juvenile that should go on from here. Kalypso King ran an encouraging race. Gallant Eagle has failed to live up to the promise shown on debut and looks ordinary or needs better ground. Sternlight didn't achieve a great deal but this trainer/owner combination are worth following and will make good money long term.'

Sunday, 23 August 2009

2:10 Folkestone (23rd August)

A restricted auction race over this straight 5f.

Not a bad little race with a few juveniles who have shown ability.

Burgau Royal improved on his second start when ridden by Gannon, showing fair speed for most and only outpointed in the last half furlong by Dubai Set who was due a win after a number of consistent efforts. Channon's two-year-old is an attractive colt, deep-chested and compact. This step down to 5f may blunt his speed, however, he should have enough stamina to finish his race. An interesting runner.

Monsieur Joe has been off the track for three months, which may be a concern. Having run a promising race at Windsor on debut, running on in eye-catching fashion, he was made favourite at Ascot and to be fair ran well.Swinburn's juvenile hung in the latter stages that day and may have suffered from sore shins or injury with regard to that point. Swinburn has a very good strike rate with his fancied juvenile on their second start and that could indicate a big run today if this two-year-old is fit and well.

Bazsharani is an attractive black filly. She will certainly appreciate this drop back to 5f after travelling well for much of the way at Chepstow last time. It is interesting to note that Gannon is riding Burgau Royal when she has been riding Evans' juvenile on recent starts. I can see this filly running well but may struggle with a couple here. It certainly seems something of a negative that Gannon doesn't ride today.

I was quite keen on La Fortunata on a couple of her early runs as she looked to have bags of speed and ideal for 5f but her last couple of races give the impressive she is regressing and one to watch for me. Today will be make or break - but I get the feeling the latter is the more likely although I hope she returns to form as she has ability at best. In addition, Jenkins' filly is small and will look quite weak against a few of these colts.

This looks out of Burgau Royal and Monsieur Joe. Channon's juvenile is clearly in form and will run a big race today. Monsieur Joe has the potential to be a classy juvenile, especially if all was not well at Ascot when still putting up a sterling effort. The layoff is a concern although Swinburn wouldn't be one to push his youngster if not ready.

A watching race.

Burgau Royal (NR)

Race review: 'A comfortable win for Monsieur Joe who may go on to better things from here. With the withdrawal of Burgau Royal this was a weakened affair. La Fortunata and Bazsharani disappointed. This race may not have taken much winning but Swinburn's juvenile could only win.'

Saturday, 22 August 2009

22nd August

No particularly fancies today. A number of Stakes races for the juveniles which never make for the easiest betting medium - generally want a decent price to start.

Pleased to see Theladyinquestion winning yesterday. This year has been something of a learning curve and with making time for the blog plus studying it hasn't been ideal but from the small number of tips we have given we have done well and in truth this season has been all about finding the best approach. We have created problems by being too selective in ways and we have come to the conclusion it is best to just give more tips. Saying that, we rarely give tips shorter than 11/4 so we do draw a line at the price. We have attempted to be to precise at times and it is the classic that many decent bets are not put forward as tips which go and win and then the banker runs disappointingly. There is no logic to it and that is why the average must be the answer & why more bets isn't necessarily a bad thing.

We have an approach which details both form horses and statistical bets. Both compliment each other well & I feel this is the way forward.

I would like to thank all of the people who have supported the site and hope we haven't let anyone down with being so quiet on the tipping front. The blog and following the horses takes a huge amount of time and it can be difficult to find enough hours in the day. There is little doubt that in the future we will be more about giving tips rather than writing the blog for the sake of writing about horses.

Thanks for your support.

Regards,
Jason

Friday, 21 August 2009

5:20 Salisbury (21st August)

An auction maiden over 6f.

A few of these have shown an element of ability.

Both King Of Windsor and Silent Secret have run well enough on debut to suggest they have a chance in this race although the form is slightly difficult to assess.

Andrew Balding has been doing well with his two-year-olds this season and Theladyinquestion is worth noting especially if in his best betting guide of 9/1 & less on second start. These juveniles feature a fair win and place rate. She didn't show much ability on debut at Newbury after being slightly hampered some way out. Not unfancied that day and having a lay-off I am hopeful a better run will be seen today although improvement is needed.

Theladyinquestion 1pt (ew) (generally available at 9/2)

General Tips (site only)

3:15 Viking Dancer (ew) (only if priced 9/1 & less at sp) (5th)

Thursday, 20 August 2009

1:30 Lingfield (20th August)

A maiden race consisting of a field of colts for this 7f on a turning track.

Lethal Combination ran on well at Epsom last time although took an age to get going. He will run a fair race her although at restricted odds there may be better selections.

Shaayeq is fancied in the market and with a few Group entries is worth noting. The downside is that Tregoning doesn't have the best win rate on debut although his place averages are fair at 13/2 & less. It is never easy giving experience and especially on a turning track. I would keep on eye on this juvenile for the future.

Cuts Both Ways didn't achieve much on debut and this step up in distance will help. These Spence-owned horses can often need the run so improvement could be seen with this two-year-old today. Cole has an excellent win rate with his juveniles priced 13/2 & less on their second start and if falling into this price guide would be of interest.

Sheer Force is an interesting runner simply because I get the feeling Knight likes this juvenile. His run at Goodwood was rather indifferent pulling very hard and having no chance thereafter. This 7f will help but he needs to settle.

A number of these have a chance especially if fancied in the betting guide (Cuts Both Ways at 13/2 & less) & Sheer Force are most interesting at fair odds.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Lethal Combination had to battle to win this from the outsider Resuscitator who's an attractive juvenile. Certainly a juvenile to give his trainer a positive start to her career. Shaayeq is a strong sort and will improve for this experience. Sheer Force was slightly keen and ran wide which didn't help his cause. Probably better suited by softer ground.'

Wednesday, 19 August 2009

7:10 Kempton (19th August)

A maiden for fillies over a mile.

I am hopeful that it will be fourth time lucky for Secret Queen. She is a talented juvenile but keeps bumping into one too good, and always by the narrowest of margins. As long as this extra furlong doesn't test her stamina she will go close again - a win this time.

Dyna Waltz has run a couple of fair races although it is always difficult assess ability when behind an easy winner in Seta trained by Cumani. The third has come out since and won so that bodes well. Rare Malt was just over a length behind in fourth so it will be intriguing how these two fair.

Secret Queen will take some beating here and deserves a change of luck.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Dyna Waltz went clear in the final and was chased by Rare Malt who upheld the form from the previous run. The third, Milnagavie, ran on well and looks to have a future. Secret Queen floundered with this step up in distance although the extra furlong probably wasn't to blame for this disappointment. She ma

Tuesday, 18 August 2009

2:00 Brighton (18th August)

Quite a restricted auction maiden over 6f(209y).

It will be interesting to see how Dr Finley, Luminous Star and Sir Bruno compare. None look the greatest of ability but all have shown enough to figure in a race like this.

Dr Finley took an age to get going at Lingfield but could never peg back Agony And Ecstasy. Considering Sir Bruno beat Angony And Ecstasy over 6f at Warwick, he may have the beating of Bell's juvenile. Not the easiest one to call. Luminous Star is a lovely-looking juvenile: compact and deep-chested. He seemed to enjoy racing here last time when just losing out and that course experience is certainly a benefit today. In addition, Sanders always rides a good race round Brighton and won't be lacking when it comes to the finish. The slight concern is that the form is difficult to assess with the winner not showing too much until that day and the third perhaps running below par. This distance has certainly brought about improvement after two initial starts at 6f. I get the feeling Luminous Star will run a big race today.

Of the rest, Constant Contact is worth noting if 9/1 & less. Balding has very good win and place statistics on his second start and defiantly worth bet a if in this price guide.

A difficult race to call with the form horses. All three have a chance although I wouldn't take a short price. Sir Bruno could run a big race although he is rather small. Constant Contact would be my selection if starting at 9/1 & less.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Not too much between these at the line with Luminous Star racing in a similar fashion to last time and just holding the Cumani debutant Pictures, who will be winning soon. Sir Bruno looked to have as good chance as any but tired in the closing stages.'

Saturday, 15 August 2009

1:50 Newmarket (15th August)

A maiden 0ver 6f for colts and fillies.

Rakaan has been contesting at a high level and this drop in class should see a big run. His last effort once again in a Group race shows he is capable of winning a maiden although you have to wonder if all these races have taken the edge of this juvenile.

On form Arabian Pride doesn't have the ability of the favourite but is a consistent sort and is likely to get on with things and make this a test. Simcock's juvenile has strong claims for a place and have a fighting chance of winning depending on the performance of the favourite.

Engulf is fancied in the betting at Haggis has a good place rate with his fancied debutantes but would need to be a serious talent to win this first time out.

The favourite will be tough to beat at best but Arabian Pride looks a fair each way bet.

A watching race.
Race review: 'This went pretty much as the write-up suggested with Arabian Pride taking advantage of the less than convincing Rakaan. Simcock's juvenile has a decent level of ability and deserved a win. P J McBride continues to do well with his two-year-olds this season with Granite Girl taking third place.'

Friday, 14 August 2009

7:10 Kempton (14th August)

A fillies maiden over 7f where a high draw can be an advantage.

A number of larger stables represented here and a good opportunity for Ghazwah to gain her first win.

John Gosden has had a rather indifferent year with his juveniles but this filly is going in the right direction and sets a fair level. Clearly appreciating the step up to 7f at Goodwood, and narrowing the distance between herself and Water Buscuit, she will appreciate this turning track and run a big race.

Damietta ran well on debut behind too promising juveniles. After getting a slow start Bin Suroor's filly made steady headway on the outside of the field but had nothing to offer when the leading two went clear. It may be the case that the leading pair are very talented juveniles (they are certainly good at least) and it is encouraging to see the fourth, Bonheurs Art, has run creditably since. On the balance of form, Damietta isn't without a chance but needs to improve for that debut.

Sir Michael Stoute fields a very interesting debutant in the shape of Giant's Play. A $850,000 purchase, well bred and entered for the Fillies' Mile (Group 1) are all signs of encouragement. The majority of her trainer's winners are priced 13/2 & less and there is little doubt this two-year-old will have her supporters. Never the easiest of trainers to assess with his debutantes, this will take a good performance to beat the likes of Ghazwah.

An interesting event. I would go with Ghazwah to take this.

A watching race. 'When a stable is in form you can do no better than follow them, and that is the case with Saeed Bin Suroor at present. Damietta clearly improved a good deal for her debut and won this in pleasing style. Giant's Play looks a filly with a bright future. Well backed and quickening in good style in the final furlong, she must be contesting pattern races before long. Ghazwah is an able sort but just found two better juveniles today. Very well backed and a decent-looking filly, she showed good speed but was outpointed at the finish. I don't think she would be any better at 6f. She is capable of winning a maiden without much trouble.'

Thursday, 13 August 2009

5:50 Chepstow

An auction maiden over 6f for colts and fillies.

Vanishing Grey may not be a very big price for this race but will take a hell of a lot of beating. A great introduction at Leicester followed by a Listed event, where she did little wrong, Meehan's filly should take this race in style before going on to better things.

Of the rest, Could It Be Magic has place claims and Carnival Court could be thereabouts. Balding has very good win and place statistics with his juveniles priced 9/1 & less on their second start, so worth noting is fancied today. (The first time blinkers are not the best sign in my opinion.)

Looking forward to watching Vanishing Grey

A watching race.

Race review: 'A big move in the betting for Magnus Thrax indicated this juvenile was liked and he ran out a fair winner. A lovely-looking horse, Hannon sent this juvenile out as second string on debut and today saw a different two-year-old. Could It Be Magic ran another consistent race and held a chance of winning for much of the way. This 6f was more suitable and Turner's colt must have a win in him. Vanishing Grey travelled well and seemed to have every chance but failed to find a finished burst when asked in the final furlong. You would have to consider this filly has regressed and perhaps it was telling they went for this auction rather than a classier race after a creditable run at Listed level. Certainly more was expected here.'


Wednesday, 12 August 2009

6:35 Sandown (12th August)

An auction maiden for colts and one filly over this 7f. Quite an unusual race with a number of form horses being fancied in the betting but each with something to prove. Both Al Ghazal and Ultravox have been entered for Group races and are capable of better. Neither was best away on debut and struggled to go the pace before showing a glimmer of promise at the line. The most interesting aspect with these is the betting which suggests improvement on that initial start. Godolphin's two-year-olds have hit form and Al Ghazal will improve for this extra furlong and experience. Ultravox has very good win and place claims if price 13/2 & less. However, it is worth noting that both need to improve. White Devil was a big price on his second and looks a handful. He was keen and races rather awkwardly, probably down to inexperienced. On form, he has shown more than most and could have a fighting chance if the expected improvement from Meehan and Bin Suroor's isn't forthcoming.


Tuesday, 11 August 2009

6:55 Nottingham (11th August)

An intriguing novice stakes over 6f on soft ground.

Dorback ran well on debut and a fair number of talented juveniles were behind this son of Kyllachy including Buzzword and Mr David who have both progressed since. In fairness both of these juveniles may have improved for their debut but that doesn't take anything away from this exciting two-year-old trained by Henry Candy. It will be interesting to see how he handles this softer ground but in all these cases you have to consider that the trainer knows best. Dorback has a very good chance of gaining his second win, a stepping stone to the Mill Reef later in the season.

Of the rest Petougg, Flipping and Waltz Around need to improve although it must be said you cannot knock a winner as they may be much better than those they beat. However, I still consider that most of these have a tough task against Dorback.

Perfect Ch'I is quite a capable juvenile and shouldn't be under estimated. This filly has set a fair level of form and gets on with the job which is half the battle. I can see her giving the favourite most to think about.

I will be hoping Dorback can progress from an exciting debut at Windsor. Henry Candy knows what a good horse looks like and this could be a juvenile with a touch of class.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Perfect Ch'I, a consistent sort, ran well here to gain her second win and progressing well. Always up with the lead one by one, including the hot favourite, toiled in her wake with only the outpace Marafong running on well and closing fast at the line. Wood (trainer) must be pleased with this performance and wish he had a few more juveniles in his yard with this ability. Marafong could be classed as an unlucky loser with a strong finish but I would be very careful backing this one next time out as Feilden's juvenile looked to be running in a different race and most likely flattered. All the rest tried to put down a challenge and failed generally due to limited ability. Perfect Ch'I ran most of these into the ground. Dorback was a big disappointment and may be better. Juveniles always deserve a chance or two so he may show this run to be a blemish on his early career. Time will tell.'

Monday, 10 August 2009

6:00 Thirsk (10th August)

A maiden over 5f where a high draw can be a distinct advantage.

A large field for this and a number of form horses on show, none outstanding but a few capable juveniles.

My Mandy is a decent two-year-old at best but this low draw will make life very difficult here.

Secret Millionaire ran well on debut and looked like winning until caught on the line. This gelding was a short price to win after a long layoff here last time but didn't live up to expectations. This Morris-trained youngster wasn't keen going to post or entering the stalls and looks somewhat temperamental. Although not badly drawn, this juvenile may be regressing and it could pay to see how he takes this race rather than jumping in.

So Bazaar is stepping down from 7f to 5f and you have to figure this juvenile will struggle to go the pace. Swinbank generally does well at Newcastle and that performance must have been a disappointment. A difficult horse to asses and one I would rather watch.

Dubawi Heights has run twice and this looks a drop in class. I get the feeling Callaghan was quite keen on this runner although her performance so far has been rather limited. The key to this yard is money and if backed I would take note. You always have to be slightly concerned that the handicap route will be taken which makes this third run all the more perplexing.

Take Ten is a big, strong juvenile and ran well at Bath although always struggling to keep tabs on the easy winner that day. That may turn out to be a fair race, if the third ran her race it most certainly was. I would be concerned that Johnston's juvenile may be outpaced and run on at the finish. It generally pays to be up with the pace at Thirsk so that could hinder his chances.

All in all this looks a pretty crazy race with a number having something to prove after disappointing. I would have to go with a high draw and experience. I can't say I have any particular fancy although looking forward to the race.

A watching race.

My Mandy (NR)
Secret Millionaire (NR)
Dubawi Heights (NR)
Race review:'A couple of significant non runners rather made this a race you didn't want to bet with 40p deductions. Bronze Beau had shown ability and suffered by going much too fast at Hamilton last time. Clearly the layoff and this quick 5f help bring about a decent run and it took until late in the final furlong for Take Ten to win. These two had the rest a few lengths behind although Durham Express showed a glimmer of ability. Probably no more than an average race. Bronze Beau has a limited amount of ability and needs a quick 5f to have any hope of winning.'

Sunday, 9 August 2009

2:10 Redcar (9th August)

I apologise for such a late posting but been on the back foot today and trying to catch up.

A selection of trainers for this maiden over 7f, the majority with form.

I am quite keen on Aquarius Star for this race. A nice-looking filly by Danehill Dancer, Eddery has done much better with his juveniles this year and this one was fancied to run a big race on debut. She took a while to get into top gear and ran on well in the closing stages in a race which I think will hold up quite well. These races at Redcar don't take the greatest of winning and this one must have sound each way claims, if price permits, and a fighting chance of a win.

Cash Queen Anna ran well at Newbury and this extra furlong will benefit. One of the more likelier types here.

Siyaadah cost 110,000gns and the way Bin Suroor's juveniles are going at present must be respected. Their juveniles are never the easiest to assess although the trainer features a fair win rate on debut, however, the majority of their horses are priced 13/2 &less (80% on debut in the last few years). The market is probably the best guide to this ones chances.

A outsider to note is Keenes Royale. This juvenile cost 140,000gns and could well improve for that initial run. Certainly of interest if backed.

An interesting race. Aquarius Star will run a big race and if a drifter in the market and an each way price would make a good bet.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Another winner for Godolphin and probably more to come. Siyaadah took a while to get going but had these on the ropes some way out and strolled home for an easy win. Cash Queen Anna ran a consistent race and should find a race as should the very slow starting Boogie Diva who may have given the winner a race if starting on equal terms. Aquarius Star was never going and outpaced from the off. She took a while to get going at Beverley but she is capable of better so a disappointing effort.'

Saturday, 8 August 2009

4:10 Newmarket (8th August)

A potentially competitive maiden fillies' race over 7f.

A selection of unraced with many successful trainers represented, many with Group race entries.

Both Duty And Destiny & Emirates Hill have shown an element of ability and set a fair standard for this maiden and both could progress from here. The former would be of interest if 13/2 & less as Meehan has a very good win and place rate on their second start.

Of the unraced, Sir Michael Stoute fields Tabassum. This filly by Nayef is well bred and certainly one of interest. The downside is that Stoute's juveniles are often under priced and he doesn't have the greatest win rate on debut.

Desert Liaison comes from Noseda's stable and a trainer who always does well with his two-year-olds. Quite fancied in the betting, this Group-entered filly by Dansili is a likely type to run well.

A difficult race to assess in ways, although a number of fair juveniles may come from this race. Duty & Destiny is of interest if starting at 13/2 & less. I get the feeling Desert Liaison will run a big race too.

A watching race.

Race review: 'A comfortable win for Tabassum trained by Michael Stoute. Always travelling well, this filly made her way home without any fear of defeat. She can go on from this and will no doubt be contesting at a higher level and may prove to be a talent. There was certainly much to live about the way she won this race. Even though the likes of Huroof and Meeznah were not so far behind in truth they never really figured until late on beating Meehan's Duty And Destiny who tried to challenge the winner but had little to offer in the closing stages and was run out of a place.'

Friday, 7 August 2009

7:05 Musselburgh (7th August)

A fascinating novice stakes race over 5f.

Falasteen makes his reappearance after a conclusive win at York on debut and is held in high regard by Nicholls. A strong gelding he looks the type to improve with racing but will certainly need to to win this competitive race. An interesting contender.

Singeur has progressed well and done well to win his last three races. Bastiman must be pleased with this colt who has not really put a foot wrong so far and deserves to take his chance at this higher level.

Raddy 'Ell Pauline is a big, strong filly and this drop in class will see her to much better effect today.

A difficult race to call with so many of these progressing with racing. More of a watching race.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Another win for Singeur who continues to please and must be a fair juvenile to hold this level of form on a consistent basis. It is good to see Bastiman have this exciting prospect and no doubt little colt will be stepping up in class very soon. A credit to his trainer. Raddy 'Ell Pauline is a strapping filly and she ran well appreciating this drop in class. Falasteen still looks rather inexperienced and could never quite get to the lead. A strong individual, he will progress with racing and probably better than we saw today.'

Full result:

Thursday, 6 August 2009

2:10 Haydock (6th August)

A maiden auction over a 1m on soft ground.

This will be a slog and many will find this a tough task.

Brunnette doesn't do anything fast and usually takes a good while to get rolling. Hannon has been in cracking form all season and this looks to be a drop in class today although there are still a couple of interesting contenders. Brunnette is likely to enjoy this endurance test and likely to run a fair race.

Diamond Duchess and Music Of The Moor are the most likely challengers with the former looking the more consistent.

A good opportunity for Brunnette to gain her first win.

A watching race.

Race review: 'A slog to get home and a good battle between three juveniles. Mark Anthony led these a merry dance for much of the way and looked to have a hope of winning but tired in the closing stages. Diamond Duchess was a worthy winner just holding the late charge of Tom Tate's Music Of The Moor. Mark Anthony held third from Brunnette who ran her race but wasn't good enough.'

Wednesday, 5 August 2009

7:05 Kempton (5th August)

A restricted auction race for colts and fillies over 7f on this turning track where a high draw is advantageous.

Astonishment has been knocking on the door and deserves to win a race. He ran a great race at Yarmouth only beaten by a talented juvenile in Syrian, which was unfortunate to find one that good at this grade. Kirk's juvenile is consistent and the form has been boosted by the third going in since. With a high draw this colt has every chance of breaking his maiden although at these limited odds you always feel you are there to be shot at.

A good opportunity for Astonishment to win.

A watching race.

Race review: 'A win for Astonishment who certainly deserved this victory after a couple of decent runs. Both Sea Dubai and Edgewater both set a fair level for this grade and should pick up a race soon.'

Tuesday, 4 August 2009

2:50 Catterick (4th August)

A maiden race over 7f for colts and fillies.

This doesn't look the most competitive of heats and not too many of interest.

Bonfire Knight ran well on debut when second to the easy winner Coloursoftheglen. That didn't look the best of races bar the winner and Motivational didn't achieve much when finishing third in a nursery next time. Quinn's two-year-old wasn't best suited by a drop back to 6f at Pontefract and ran on in the closing stages and clearly needs this extra furlong. A fair-looking colt by Red Ransom he will be running a decent race today although probably not much value at shortish odds.

Pleasant Day is the horse of interest simply because Meehan has an exceptional win rate on his second start with his juveniles. I had a good review of this juvenile at Newmarket and to be fair he didn't show much ability. Being second string and more than likely needing the run Meehan's two-year-old can be transformed from one run to the next. Being the only entry today for both trainer and jockey is a sign of encouragement and the fact that he goes to Catterick are all interesting pointers. I wouldn't imagine this is the greatest of horses and reason why they have come to the north, however, this runner is of interest if relatively short in the betting (13/2 & less).

Decimus Meridius cost 160,000eur and has decent breeding, and pretty short in the betting. Howard Johnson is capable of winning on debut although his general win rate is poor. The betting will indicate the chances of this one. If very well backed expect a big run.

Greyfriarschorista was a cheap purchase and like many of Johnston's juveniles on debut is difficult to assess. The majority of his juveniles win at 13/2 and less on their racecourse bow. This two-year-old has been entered to run in a stakes race which is encouraging and he has a good record at the course. I would rather watch this horse today.

A relatively weak race and two main contenders with Bonfire Knight and Pleasant Day. If Meehan's juvenile is relatively short in the betting (13/2 & less) I would expect a big run.

A watching race.

Race review: 'Probably no more than an average race and Bonfire Knight managed to gain his first win. William Arnold nearly caused a surprise with a great run at 250/1, to finish second and Decimus Meridius was clueless for most but ran on well to show promise. Pleasant Day was hopelessly outpaced and never looked likely to win anything.'

Monday, 3 August 2009

6:45 Carlisle (3rd August)

A restricted auction race over 5f(193y).

This doesn't look much of a race and a few of these need excuses for poor efforts on their last starts.

Saint Sebastian was fancied to run a race at Beverley but after showing speed faded tamely and isn't the easiest of juveniles to assess. His second at Leicester seemed on the face of it to be a fair effort but being a small race it is possible that it didn't set the highest of levels. This extended 5f and softer ground could bring about an improved performance. McMahon does well with his juveniles and if he disappointed at Beverley will take all the beating here. That is the dilemma. If he is ever likely to win a race this will be the one although I would rather watch and learn today.

It will be interesting to see if Jozafeen can run any better here as Bastiman's filly was backed on her Ripon debut but failed to show any ability.

Of the unraced, Mr Grinch is worth a mention as Dods does well with his youngsters especially on soft ground. He is the kind of trainer to have a chance at a price and a race of this nature will not take much winning.

A tricky race with lots of questions to answer for most of these. None have shown anything beyond a limited standard and I wouldn't like to imagine who will prevail. Saint Sebastian is the most interesting of the runners for me.

A watching race.

Destinys Dancer (NR)

Race review: 'An interesting race with a collection of average juveniles, disappointments and a few unraced. Mr Grinch continues a good season for Dods. The big plus with this talented trainer is that he can win on debut and this sturdy two-year-old ran on well and then held a strong challenge from Bastiman's Jozafeen, who was clearly considered capable of betting when disappointing at Ripon. This was a two-horse race with a furlong or so to go and Coolella trundled home for third. Saint Sebastian may have been flattered by his seemingly fair effort at Leicester but clearly has a limited level of ability.'

Sunday, 2 August 2009

2:20 Chester (2nd August)

A maiden over 7f for colts and fillies.

This looks a duel between the two favourites - Prompter and Realisation. Both put up very encouraging performances on debut and clearly rated by their respective stables.

Prompter was fancied to give Hayley Turner a winning return to the saddle and I can imagine in ways they were surprised to be beaten that day. That was a creditable run to go so close in a novice stakes race on his racecourse bow. No doubt Bell will be hoping this son of Motivator can bring a welcome winner for the sire who has of yet been disappointing with his crop of juveniles. Prompter has been given a number of Group entries and will certainly be winning a race or two but whether he can beat the Johnston horse is an interesting question

Realisation ran very well on debut when finishing third to Gunner Lindley, who has since run well at Goodwood. Mark Johnston has been flying at Goodwood this week and this colt will run a big race today. It is difficult to assess how Prompter and Realisation compare but make no mistake this two-year-old will not be easy to beat here.

Of the rest, Number One Guy is worth a mention. Tompkins' juvenile has an element of speed and looks the type to do well round Chester's turning track. Not the biggest horse, with a lean but attractive look, this colt by Rock Of Gibraltar will be up there for a long way but my struggle to cope with the two more fancied runners.

Not the easiest race to call and ideally an each way bet on Realisation would be the tip although that isn't likely to happen. Out of the two favourites I would side with Johnston's although I am not keen on betting in this race because I don't think there will be much value to be found.

A watching race.

Bonasera (NR)

Race review: 'Prompter was given a positive ride by Turner and leading on the rail gave this colt every chance of hitting the winning mark for connections and giving Motivator his first two-year-old winner. Many of his progeny have disappointed so far but it is apt that Bell has a capable juvenile on his hands which could go on to compete in pattern races. Realisation and Tominator has run against each other at Haydock but it was Hollinshead's charge who took second. He clearly improved for the run but part of that reversal was to do with a disappointing effort by Realisation. I don't think it would have mattered what the Johnston horse had done, he wouldn't have beaten Prompter, however, he wasn't suited by the course and found trouble in running on a couple of occasions. This juvenile will be better on a more galloping course.'

Saturday, 1 August 2009

4:15 Goodwood (1st August)

A maiden for colts and gelding over 7f with a big prize for the winner.

A mix of form horses and juveniles making their debut. On this turning course a high draw and experience are positive factor.

Texan Star ran well on debut, second to the talented Emerald Commander. This colt by Galileo looks a strong sort and although given a race at Newbury wasn't bullied and was clear of the third. It is slightly difficult to assess what he achieved that day although you would be inclined to think this two-year-old has a fair level of ability and likely to improve with racing. Holding a Group entry for the Royal Lodge (Group 2) is a sign of encouragement. Gosden's juveniles have been running much better of late and although not ideally drawn, there is much to like about this individual.

Yarra River is a consistent juvenile and Balding has been doing well with his two-year-olds all season. The form of the Epsom race is working out well and this juvenile ran wide for much of the way and wasn't suited by the course and should be more at home today. That was a decent effort and another big run can be expected. Once again not ideally drawn, this colt should have the experience and speed to hold a handy position. Through a form line with Branderburgo, Balding's youngster should just about have the beating of Poor Prince although there may not be a huge amount between them. Yarra River has decent each way claims and proven ability which is needed when competing at this grade.

Poor Prince ran well on debut and certainly has an element of speed. Cox's colt will probably be amongst the leaders and if improving for his debut run could have a chance. I thought this juvenile pretty much ran his race that day so I wouldn't expect a huge amount of progress and he does hold his head rather high. I would favour Yarra River today.

Akula ran on to take third at Yarmouth in a good race. The first and second are clearly talented juveniles and Tompkins' colt by Soviet Star wasn't hard pressed that day. The form of that third may be better than it looks and there is little doubt this juvenile will improve for that debut effort. It is interesting that Tompkins has come for this race and that in itself is a pointer. Not the easiest one to assess but not without a chance at a price. The negative of being drawn one doesn't help his cause. Probably a place horse at best but a juvenile to watch for the future.

The unraced have a lot to prove on debut and attaining the level set by the form horses will take a very good juvenile. In all likelihood this will go to a form horse. However a couple are worth noting. Delta Love has an entry for the Royal lodge and cost $260,000. Johnston does well at Goodwood. While Destination Aim has been entered for the Gimcrack, although many of Bin Suroor's improve for the run.

An intriguing maiden. I would have to go with the form horses here and Yarra River sets a guaranteed level of ability. Texan Star has the potential to be a very good juvenile although has something to prove at the moment and why I would give Balding's juvenile a decent each way claim today with the hope of sneaking a win.

A watching race.

Race review: 'It was difficult to see much of this race as the sea fret obscured the view. Stags Leap improved markedly for the run and clearly was second string on debut. A good win from this juvenile and a big prize to please connections. Yarra River ran on well and looked to hold every chance in the final furlong with Destination Aim and Delta Love making similar strides towards the line. A good few winners will come from this event. Texan Star was very well backed but ran no race. This colt is probably worth another chance.'