4:35 Leicester Racing Tips (6th Sept) BRITISH STALLION STUDS APOLLO EBF MAIDEN STAKES (Plus 10 Race) (CLASS 4) (2yo)

An EBF Maiden Stakes over 7f on good to soft going. 

Thirteen two-year-old colts take part.  Five juveniles with race experience. Plenty of renowned trainers taking an interest in this Plus 10 contest with win prize money a shade over £5,000.

A big old field but plenty of interest. 

Roger Charlton fields *Zafferino. This son of Frankel is out of a once-raced mare. This home-bred is owned by Saleh Al Homaizi & Imad Al Sagar. He started 8/15f in a four-horse race but couldn't hold the late challenge of Seniority. Zafferino was a touch keen on his racecourse debut but held in high regard by connections. With that initial experience, this February foal should go well and has sound each-way claims.

For more reading material around horse race betting, be sure to check out Bethut's horse racing tips.

Sir Michael Stoute should always be respected in the latter part of the season and he has sent out a few nice two-year-olds over the last few weeks. Elucidation is a homebred racing in the familiar silks of the Niarchos Family. This son of Oasis Dream was the lesser fancied of two horses representing Stoute on debut at Newmarket. Perhaps that was the reason Elucidation was sent off at odds of 16/1. However, he showed ample promise, staying on in the closing stages to finish third. The winner, trained by James Tate, ran on with verve after being fancied to go well at Yarmouth behind the very smart Salsabeel. Law And Order [Tate] had exceptional win and place statistics that day and it was not surprising to me he was a powerhouse. I had my eye on the runner-up. Rummani, who is a talent, which boosts the likelihood of Elucidation. I would keep an eye open for Mandarin, who disappointed that day but was heavily backed and I know for a fact is held in high regard by Marco Botti. Elucidation looks the type to improve for that racecourse bow and has strong each-ways claims if priced 13/2 & less SP.

Adamant is similarly trained, owned by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing. This grey colt is a son of Dalakhani who was purchased as a breeze-up purchase by John Warren for 130,000E. The mare, Attima, won three times in her career racing in France and America, winning at Group 2. The best guide to this debutantes chance is the betting. The majority of Stoute's debutantes win when priced 13/2 & less SP. If outside this betting guide I would take a watching brief. 

To add to the heat, *Naval Warfare comes here after finishing fourth and second, respectively. This bay colt, a son of Born To Sea, put up a bold front-running performance over seven and a half furlongs at Ffos Las to be worn down in the closing stages by Math's Prize. It was a fair effort to beat Prerogative, who has been a model of consistency. I can see this bay colt leading and should appreciate this softer going. 

Luca Cumani doesn't have the biggest string of two-year-olds but a trainer who should always be respected on their second start. It is worth noting that Presence Process races in the second colours forSaleh Al Homaizi & Imad Al Sagar. This bay colt is a son of Dansili and half-brother to Justineo who race up to Group 1 class. Presence Process was relatively fancied on debut at 10/1 but a long way behind the first three, which included Law And Order. On a form line, he has to find a good few lengths to beat Elucidation. I would take  a watching brief unless seriously backed.     

Ed Dunlop has a couple of runners both making their racecourse bow. Alemaratalyoum is an Irish-bred son of Lope in the ownership of Mohammed Jaber. He has a couple of fair juveniles with the stable in Apex King & Al Nafoorah. He cost 85,000G. Dunlop's debutantes are best judged by their starting price. They have a fighting chance when priced 14/1 & less SP. If weak in the betting I'd take a watching brief. 

The market should detail the chances of Nigh Or Never who is trained by Tom Dascombe. This January foal is a son of Excelebration out of a Galileo mare and cost 100,000E at the yearling sales. Dascombe's juvenile is presently priced at 20/1, which suggests he will be better for the race or the competition is strong enough to make this a test. The stable can win at bigger odds although their brightest prospects are priced 7/1 & less SP. If in that guide should be feared.

I always take a second look at John's juveniles owned by George Strawbridge. They often prove a fair combination. The stable have their share of debut winners, especially if fancied in the betting. Jupiter Light is a son of Lonhro out of a seriously good mare who won on debut and runner-up in the Fillies' Mile. An exceptional filly who achieved a highest OR 113. The betting suggests he will be better for the run but if backed to 13/2 & less SP have respectable each-way claims.

Charles Hill has a few fair juveniles in his string. *Farook hasn't been seen for over two months since finishing behind Apex King. This son of Raven's Pass was relatively fancied in te betting but disappointed. There may have been an issue that day. Hamdan Al Maktoum stuck his hand deep in his pocket to buy this roan colt at the yearling sales for 420,000G. It would be a surprise to see this colt backed. He doesn't hold any significant entries but one for the shortlist is the money comes.  

Al Mansor hails from Richard Hannon's stable. I find this stable difficult to assess with their debutantes because they are difficult to call. In general, they are better for their debut. This son of Dark Angel  cost 95,000E at the breeze-up sales so should come here with fitness and wisdom.     

The stable field Sporting Times who is a home-bred. The betting suggests this youngster is best watched.

Time To See & Quinteo are best watched. 

Conclusion: A tough race to be too dogmatic with a handful of horses which have shown promise if no undoubted ability. I was impressed by Elucidation on debut when starting at big odds. The form of that race is solid and any improvement would make this juvenile go very close. Zefferino will have his supporters with the Frankel tag, which probably means he will start little shorter odds than deserved. However, it is difficult to assess the form of that race but Charlton has very good win and place claims with horses fancied on their second start and if difting to each-way prices wouldn't be a bad bet at all. If Adamant is priced 13/2 & less SP it would be significant. Farook cost a lot of money and may have sustained an injury or problem on debut. He could be backed from big odds and may be worth an anticipatory gamble. 

*NR 

Horse racing is a game of research

There are many sporting events out there that rake in millions and millions in gambling revenue every year. Football, in particular, stands out amongst the crowd with it being so big in the UK and across Europe.

But while football becomes increasingly unpredictable, throwing off seasoned ‘experts’ left right and centre- who saw Leicester winning the BPL and Portugal winning Euro 2016? Horse racing allows for a more measured and informed bet. After all, you don’t know what is going on in Football player’s heads, what has happened at home or at work with the team, a horse, should be easier to read.

Thus, Horse racing isn’t such a game of chance like other sports betting and your run of the mill standard gambling. It’s not like a game of roulette, for example, where winning consecutive rounds reduces your probability of success, it’s a game of skill, research and rhythm.

To win big in horse racing you have to do the research. There is so much to take into consideration when it comes to betting on the gee-gees. The racers past form, the jockeys, the strengths and weaknesses of the horse and the condition of the course all factor in to the potential success of your bet.

One great way of getting to grips with all the ins and outs of the races and the events in question is to physically attend and get speaking with experts and other horse racing aficionados. It’s this social element that can also help you better learn potential tips and rumours about certain racers and riders which could greatly affect the outcome of a race.

It’s important in any aspect of gaming to keep your head especially when nothing appears to be going right for you. Don’t bet angry and make sure that the bets you are placing are made when you are in control and thinking straight. Nothing upsets a professional gambler more than suffering certain patchy spells and even losing streaks, it can knock their confidence and wind up letting them make thoughtless bets and losing more than they originally intended.

Horse racing is the ideal way in which to better understand various elements that can affect the outcome of a bet that you place. The races themselves are fast, frantic and fun and it’s very easy to get lost in the excitement of race day. But the skills that you can attain from betting on horse races can seriously help develop your skills and intuition to become a better gambler.

2:10 Leicester Racing Tips (30th May) TOTEPLACEPOT PLAY EVERY DAY NOVICE MEDIAN AUCTION STAKES (CLASS 5) (2yo)

Novices Median Auction Stakes over 5f on good to firm going. Eight two-year-olds, four with race experience in quite a restricted race type. Just a quick review. Roger Varian is a talented trainer and Pretty Vacant will go off a hot favourite after a decent debut  when runner-up at Haydock. This grey son of Elzaam cost just 10,000G as a foal. He has a slightly awkward running action, flicking out his near fore leg but it certainly doesn't stop him running fast. He wasn't fancied on his racecourse bow, drifting quite alarmingly in the betting from 9-2 - 8/1. All were debutantes which make assessing the form difficult but at this grade, you would have to feel this juvenile will take all the beating. 

Cosmic Beau looks poor after his last race at Bath. That was run at a ridiculous pace and he literally had no chance to finishing the race. The complexion of that race changed markedly in the final furlong with leaders hitting the wall and those outpaced seemingly running on with spirit. Dascombe's son of Dandy Man was relatively fancied that day and a huge price here. It wouldn't be a surprise to see this colt backed. 

Richard Fahey two-year-olds have been running well and his connection with Cheveley Park Stud often a winning recipe. Rosebride is a daughter of Mayson out of a twice-winning mare who was placed at Listed class. This outfit should be respected and this bay filly hails from a stable who can go very well on debut and especially so with these connections. 

Richard Hannon has a huge string of juveniles and while their early-season successes have been dented by Mark Johnston they have plenty of talented colts and fillies. I often find this stable difficult to call with their debutantes. Mum's The Word runs in the familiar silks of Andrew Tinkler and this son of Mayson was purchased at the yearling sales for 52,000G. The mare was unraced.  

Richard Hughes has taken his time to find his feet with his two-year-olds but a few have shown promise. Goodwood Crusader is unsurprisingly owned by the Goodwood Owners Group. This bay colt is an Irish-bred son of Sir Prancealot who cost 44.000G at the yearling sales. Difficult to assess Hughe's debutantes although relatively fancied in the betting.

The Daley Express hails from Ed McMahon's stable. He is a talented trainer who suffers from a lack of patronage but knows a good horse, very much like his father. This bay colt is a son of Elzaam who was purchased by the trainer at the yearling sales for £30,000. He is bred from a mare trained by McMahon, Seraphina, who actually won the Brocklesby Stakes on debut in 1999. She was a capable sprinter who may never have tasted victory again although narrow loser of the Lowther Stakes Group 2 when a 66/1 shot & fourth in the Chevelely Park Stakes Group 1. She concluded her career at three when placed at Listed class. Ed McMahon can win with his debutantes although most of this two-year-olds are better on their second start [similar to most trainers]. An interesting juvenile. 

Brian Meehan has been quiet with the two-year-olds he has sent out this term. Jet Setter started his career in a hot debut at Windsor behind Legendary Lunch and Copper Knight, who are no slouches and the winner holding some impressive engagements if not heading to Royal Ascot. This son of Fast Company cost £57,000 at the yearling sales out of a poor mare. He was a big price that day and showed pace before dropping away in the closing stages. With over one month off course, it could be the case this chestnut needed the run that day and a different horse will be seen today. He is pretty friendless in the market but if backed it would bring more confidence. If priced 13/2 & less SP I would expect a bold show. If weak in the betting, best watched.   

Mister Moo is best watched. 

Conclusion: An intriguing race. Pretty Vacant has an awkward running action but physically a decent-looking juvenile. He ran well on debut and although the form is difficult to assess it looked a respectable performance. This colt looks professional and the newcomers will need to be pretty straight and experienced to press this youngster. Rosebride is worthy of note on debut from a stable who can send out a winner, especially for these connections. Mum's The Word hails from a strong stable although difficult to predict. Another one who is difficult to assess is Goodwood Crusader simply with a lack of data for Hughes in his formative year as a trainer. The Daley Express is well bred and if taking after his mother a horse who could spring a surprise when unfancied in the betting. On balance, I'd take a watching brief but at big odds, it wouldn't be a surprise to see a fair effort. The betting will detail the hope of Jet Setter. If fancied in the market he may have a fighting chance. Cosmic Beau ran much too fast last start and looks a lot worse for that crazy test. It wouldn't be a surprise to see this colt backed from big odds. Pretty Vacant sets the standard although a skinny price. I'd be tempted to back Cosmic Beau on the exchanges at huge odds and hope to lay at shorter odds for a no lose bet. However, this is just an aside. Generally speaking, a watching brief.   

2:00 Leicester Racing Tips (8th Sept) BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF APOLLO MAIDEN STAKES (Plus 10 Race) (Div I) (CLASS 4) (2yo)

An EBF Maiden Stakes over 7f on good going. A sizable field of colts and geldings. Muntazah looked a touch disappointing when beaten favourite on his second start, especially when very unlucky not to win on debut. That fifth place, although only beaten less than three lengths, did seem a little disappointing at first but the form of that contest has been franked. Barry Hills' son of Dubawi is a good-looking colt and after a lay off will be making a return with high hopes of winning. The price may be a touch skinny [11/10, Monday evening] and there are horses of interest in opposition. A number of flashy Group entries indicate this bay has ample ability and the horse to beat.

Charlie Appleby has a number of talented juveniles in his string and Chess Master, well, if price translate to ability, this son of Shamardal will shine - all 1,700,000GNS. An incredible sum. The mare was a talent for trainer Geoff Wragg [Cassandra Go] winning at Group 2 and placed at Group 1 when runner-up to Mozart in the July Cup at Newmarket. A couple of Group entries add to the credence that Chess Master has been making the right moves on the gallops. Appleby has a decent strike race at this course and definitely a horse to respect and probably fear if lumping on the favourite at short odds. 

Hammer Gun is owned by Her Majesty The Queen, trained by Sir Michael Stoute. The stable can win on debut but the price is the best guide. Very few of their debutantes win when priced over 13/2. The stable is represented by Star Ship, who has recently received a Stakes entry, which is a sign of confidence. The betting suggests this chestnut son of Raven's Past is second string. It wouldn't be a surprise to see this colt backed. However, I wouldn't expect a winning performance unless in his best betting guide. 

Another debutante who may have a hope is William Muir's Royal Reserve. In general, I wouldn't hold my breath for one of their juveniles to strike on their racecourse bow and I'm far from confident this son of Duke Of Marmalade will be any different. The hope is that this bay colt holds an entry for the Racing post Trophy Group 1. They had another entrant of this race at the weekend, which came last, so it does temper enthusiasm, although that most probably disappointed. At odds of 25/1 there may be some meat on the bone for a speculative bet. 

Conclusion: This looks a contest of two major hopes: Muntazah and the bank busting Chess Master. The former has experience on side and form to set a standard which most debutantes would find difficult to depose. Chess Master is clearly a blue blood and could, as the cliches go, ''be anything''. If seriously backed it would give more confidence but a weakness would suggest the favourite is expected. The market is the best guide for the Sir Michael Stoute pair. By the start of the race the market may detail Star Ship is better. However, unless they are 13/2 & less SP I wouldn't be betting. Royal Reserve may be worth a speculative each-way punt if drifting to incredible odds on the exchanges.Could be backed near the off.   

2:30 Leicester - Not too much time to write a great deal here but interesting to see if David Lanigan's Wapping can show ability after a lackluster display on debut when backed to 7/2. I must admit this trainer doesn't inspire confidence but many juveniles disappoint on debut so it doesn't pay to think a horse can so easily be assess by form alone. In fact, the worse many two-year-olds look on debut the better they seem to be long term. He has received a Group entry and most recently a Stakes entry which suggest this horse has some ability. Again, if touching big odds on the exchanges may be worth a flutter with a view the money may come and make a decent no-lose bet. 

5:05 Leicester - Sepal was made favourite on debut for Charles Hills and far from disgraced. If this filly is priced 13/2 & less SP has very good win and place claims.     

2:00 Leicester Racing Tips (9th Aug) BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF MAIDEN STAKES (Plus 10 Race) (CLASS 4) (2yo)

An EBF Maiden Stakes over 7f on good to firm going. Nine two-year-olds: colts and one filly. Most lightly raced bar three debutantes. A few interesting horses and speculative bet that might go well. 

Al Khafji wasn't fancied in the betting on debut at Newmarket but far from disgraced. This 150,000gns yearling is owned by Al Shaqab Racing and hails from Bedford House Stables whose juveniles often show marked improvement on their second start. This son of New Approach has been given a Royal Lodge Stakes (Group 2) entry. If priced 13/2 & less SP has respectable win and place claims. 

Scarlet Dragon belied his odds on debut when finishing with verve at Goodwood, third at odds of 40/1. That may not have been the strongest of contests but it shouldn't take away from this son of Sir Percy who looks nailed on to improve for this extra furlong. Henry Ponsonby is a shrewd owner and it is a sign of confidence this bay colt has been given a stakes entry. It suggests to me that winning a maiden is likely and loftier ambition will take seed with time. Another colt who has respectable each-way claims if fancied in the betting. 

Sir Michael Stoute is a trainer so highly rated that his two-year-olds are often under priced on their second start. Arab Poet made a pleasing introduction at Windsor over 6f, shaping well. The betting detailed this home bred son of Poet's Voice needed the run. This step up in distance will be in his favour. On statistics alone this chestnut colt has the edge although the price doesn't look value. 

Gershwin is interesting. David Lanigan has a pretty poor win rate on debut although a few juveniles have gone in when backed. This son of Shamardal was well backed when making his racecourse bow at Doncaster but never competitive after a slow start. In truth, this 100,000euro yearling buy had no chance after those sluggish tendencies. He was beaten a long way into eighth but, perhaps, better is expected. Owner B E Neilsen of ABBA fame has deep pockets and capable  of unearthing a talented horse [Masked Marvel, pictured]. A string of Group entries suggests this colt can be forgiven a poor first start. At speculative odds it isn't beyond the realms he will make a transformation. There is a distinct possibility he could be backed. 

Conclusion:  From a statistical point of view Al Khafji, Scarlet Dragon and Arab Poet hold respectable each way claims. Gershwin has a lot to prove and needs to leave that debut effort as far behind him as he ran that day. Stranger things have happened and I would have a small each way bet on this colt at big odds.  Already been a few nibbles on this one on the exchanges. Unless you can get around 14/1+ I'd take a watching brief. Need some value to take a punt of this nature. 

Gershwin Late non runner - spread plate

3:15 Windsor - King of Dreams is held in high regard by connections. This son of Dream Ahead, in the same ownership Khalifa Dasmal cost 240,000gns at Tattersalls October Sales 2014.  A Champagne Stakes (Group 2) entry give confidence in what looks to be a relatively weak maiden. At restricted odds I will take a watching brief although be surprised if he is beaten. 

Wednesday's Racing Tips

Just a few pointers. Seven two-year-olds races across the country with changing ground conditions. Looking for one wearing wellington boots and a poncho. Yesterday's tip Sir Roger Moore had no luck in running and is much better than seen. If going for a maiden next start, especially at an average track, will take some beating. 

Back to Wednesday: 

1:50 Redcar - Hope Cove was fancied to go well last start at Doncaster, when third. That turned out to be a pretty hot contest and this looks a lesser race to taste of victory. If available at each-way prices - a fair bet. Kingthistle hasn't been seen for a couple of months but ran with credit at stakes class in the Brian Yeardley at Beverley. Mick Easterby doesn't have many juveniles in his care but E A Brook's charge could well hit the frame at 10/1 [backed]. 

6:15 Leicester - Al Dallah is capable of winning a maiden. She ran well on debut, especially so second start and then was collard by a fair juvenile in William Jarvis' at Brighton. Cole's third franked the form with a win at Windsor the other day. This daughter of Footstepsinthesand must have each way claims if prices allow. Continental Lady is worth noting on debut for David Brown. This daughter of Medicean is one of two fillies entered for the Lowther Stakes (Group 2) and her stablemate won last start. Their debutantes can go well especially if priced 13/2 & less sp. If well backed it would be a sign of confidence. Certainly worthy of interest and could be a winner in waiting. 

7:50 Leicester - Philip McBride is a trainer I rate and Musical Taste has been relatively fancied on both her starts to date. This daughter of Makfi is owned by Qatar racing Ltd. I had a few quid on this horse second start and expected a big run but it didn't really happen. The race has turned out to be a fair standard but I do think this bay filly may have disappointed for some reason. This doesn't look the strongest of races and the stable have a very good strike rate (small sample) at this course and I would hope she can ht the frame and fingers crossed she wins. 

1:50 Redcar - Hope Cove  (ew) 9/2 2nd
6:15 Leicester - Al Dallah (ew)  3/1 3rd + Continental Lady (ew) if 13/2 & less SP 100/30 1st (bigger earlier) 
7:50 Leicester - Musical Taste (ew)  7/2 2nd     

2:20 Leicester (4th April) KNIGHTON MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 5) (2yo)

A Maiden Stakes over 5f 2y on good to soft ground. Twelve two-year-olds take part: eight colts, one gelding and three fillies from a selection of leading juvenile trainers. All horses are making their debut bar Flyball who finished an admirable third in the Brocklesby Conditions Stakes. 

Experience is a huge positive at this time of year. Flyball, trained by Richard Hannon, is an ideal candidate to prove the benefit of a first start. This March foal, owned by Middleham Park Racing, was a cheap yearling purchase by Ross Doyle Bloodstock for £9,000 out of a limited, sprinting mare, trained by the late Terry Mills. This bay colt may have been a little weak in the betting on debut. However, he showed ample promise to finish third behind Cock Of The North. The Brocklesby is a fair measure of ability and he should improve for that initial start. Flyball knew his job at Doncaster: quick from the stalls, in contention, if not slightly outpaced mid race, before running on at the finish. He doesn't look the to have ample pace but against this field of debutantes should lead or just sit off the pace. It is a positive he runs to the line. Many of the newcomers are likely to be tiring at the finish or given a tender introduction. It is always a strength to finish a race. The only negative is a wide draw. Stall one leaves a horse prone to run into space and although experience will lessen this factor it is something to consider. I would expect Levey [jockey] to make a bold show and the draw shouldn't be too much of a negative. This colt may have been a cheap buy but he is a fair-looking juvenile, quite tall and athletic. An honest type who will run his race. It will take a fair juvenile to beat him on debut. It must be noted that the form of the Brocklesby has yet to be tested - so caution is always the best policy. However, if each way prices allow - a fair bet.

Richard Fahey is a class act when it comes to training two-year-olds. He is one of few trainers who features a similar win rate with horses on their first and second start. Very few handlers come close to such exploits - the mark of horses primed to go well on their racecourse bow. Burtonwood catches the eye. This son of Acclamation is out of a poor-winning mare but certainly caught the attention of many at the sales. This January foal must be a good-looking colt because he was sold for 150,000gns at the yearling sales in joint ownership of David Armstrong & Cheveley Park Stud. With such a price tag, high-profile trainer & auspicious owners this must be a talking horse. The stable can deliver impressive debutante winners and one to respect. A relatively wide draw is not ideal but an intriguing horses. 

Brazen Spirit comes here after being balloted out of the Brocklesby, which is a strange occurrence. This grey son of first season sire Zebedee was purchased by the trainer for £20,000 at the yearling sales. Clive Cox is a talented handler and he can prime a horse to go well on debut. Certainly a high rail draw could be an advantage if fast from the stalls. The betting will be the best guide to this February foal's chances. If priced 13/2 & less he has sound win and place claims. 

Another trainer associated with class juveniles is Kevin Ryan. Fast Act is a chestnut colt by first season sire Fast Company. He cost £38,000 at the yearling sales and related to a good few winners. This horse runs in the familiar silks of Hambleton Racing Ltd. He is one of the youngest in the field, not quite two (16th April). Just under half of all Ryan's juveniles start 13/2 & less o their debut run. The majority of their winners are priced 7/1 & less but they do have a few beyond this guide. The stable feature a respectable win rate on debut although they can be rather hit and miss. 

London Life was entered to run at Lingfield but a non runner. This daughter of Approve cost 38,000euros at the yearling sales and an early foal. It is slightly concerning that she looked to be second string on her intended start although Kingscote takes the ride today. The betting is the best guide and if priced 7/1 & less would have fair win and place claims. I wouldn't back this horse early on the exchanges, as if needing the run she will most likely drift in the betting.

David Evans has the approach of throwing a lot of two-year-old at this first part of the season with the aim of taking advantage of limited races, fit horses and a talent or two. Cheerio Sweetie made an impressive debut to win at Lingfield and fields four horses of an intended five runners. Verchild Lad, Josie Joe, Hard To Find & Come Uppence are all cheap buys. The betting is the best guide and if priced 13/2 & less it would be a sign of confidence. A watching brief if weak in the market.

Chester Deal is related to Marilyn Marquessa who showed some pace at two but a limited horse. Jo Hughes' stable often like to gamble and a market move would be a sign of interest. However, this colt is best watched.

Harry Hurricane makes his debut for George Baker. This son of Kodiac is out of a winning mare and cost £38,000 at the yearling sales, increasing his price from foal. This bay colt isn't two until 24th April. The stable's juveniles usually benefit for the run unless they are substantially backed. I'd take a watching brief unless the floodgates open, as most of their youngsters are primed for their second start.

Bill Turner is another trainer who isn't shy when it comes to racing his two-year-old horses and Lady Bling didn't look to go through the sales ring. This daughter of Showcasing is not quite two and races in the familiar black and yellow silks of Mrs M Teversham. The stable do not feature as good a strike rate on debut as the media proclaims and unless substantially backed best watched.

Conclusion: An intriguing race. The betting will be a good guide to the leading prospects. Unless there is a big gamble this looks to be out of Flyball, Burtonwood, Brazen Spirit & Fast Act. Flyball isn't best drawn but he is likely to set a stern test for the debutantes, who will need to be primed to challenge this juvenile. The Brocklesby form is still unproven but it is generally a fair guide to ability. Hannon's colt looks straight forward and will be primed to win. He is likely to finish with zeal and that could make life difficult for the debutantes who will be given a considerate introduction to racing. If each way prices are availble it would be a disappointment if Flyabll couldn't make the frame. Burtonwood cost a lot of money at the sales and hails from influential connections who send out debut winners. It will be interesting to see how this colt fares in the betting. If a class act, he could take all the beating but any signs of inexperience would favour the horse with experience. Brazen Spirit would have fair win and place claims if prices 13/2 & less. London Life follows a similar guide. It is a concern that this filly was viewed as second string when entered to run at Lingfield. If weak in the betting that would be a negative. Fast Act should be respected and has a fighting chance if fancied in the betting. The rest would need to be substantially backed to bring any confidence. Flyball would have respectable claims if available at each way prices. 

HCE has a new breeding expert - Massimo Nutini. 

He says: This time the pure sprinter is LADY BLING Best quality horses are CHESTER DEAL and FAST ACT; more correlated horse to the distance, continues to be BRAZEN SPIRIT.

My choice should go on BRAZEN SPIRIT

2:20 Leicester (Friday 5th April) Free Horse Racing Tips

A Maiden Stake over 5f 2y on good to soft ground. Seven two-year-olds compete, six colts, one filly, two horses with race experience. Mick Channon had great success last year with Sixties Icon who made his name as a sire of versatile offspring. 

Scargill was set a stiff task on debut when competing at Musselburgh. Mick's Yer Man won this stakes race after taking the Brocklesby in good style. Scargill was weak in the betting, which suggested he needed the run. I have little doubt the stable had few expectations that day. After a tardy start and showing sign of inexperience, this bay colt ran on with promise. The stable's juveniles can show marked improvement on their second start. The third horse, In tense Feeling, has since won a selling race. I would expect ample improvement. With only two places for each way backers, it slightly tempers enthusiasm although from a statistical point of view this horse has a leading chance. Clearly his fortunes rest very much dependent on the debutantes of which a couple could well prove dangers.

Richard Hannon fields his first two-year-old of the season. Beau Nash, an Irish bred son of Dandy Man, was purchase by Peter & Ross Doyle for £25,000 at the yearling sales. The stable have a good strike rate at this course. They have such a wealth of juveniles that if this youngster has ability it will win. If priced around 6/4f I would expect to see a bold performance.

Peterkin is a home bred son of Invincible Spirit out of a once-raced mare. It is difficult to assess Mark Johnston's debutantes because his two-year-old are either easier winners or poor losers, often at short prices. However, Leicester is a course they feature a healthy points profit and a recent stakes race entry suggests this colt has ability. I would rather take a watching brief.

Of the other debutantes, Cockney Bob is a very cheap yearling purchase at £500 for Stan Moore. This son of Cockney Rebel is out of a mare who won on debut and raced over fifty times. The stable have debut winners at a variety prices although I would take a watching brief.

Master Carpenter is a relatively expensive yearling purchase at £25,000. This chestnut colt is sired by a class horse [Mastercraftsman]. The mare didn't race until three and needed a trip so it is possible 6f would be more appealing. The major negative is that the stable struggle to win with their debutantes although James Millman has been quoted as saying it is their intention to have their two-year-old sharper this season. However, they are usually much better on their second start and likely to need the run.

Bill Turner has shown mixed form with his juveniles this season. Mick's Yer Man looks a fair two-year-old with two stakes wins under his belt but a few of their other runners have disappointed. Posh Bounty is the only filly in the field which could pose a problem against bigger stronger colts. In general, the stable do not feature as good strike rate on debut as people imagine. I would have to take a watching brief.

Last but not least is Smuggler's Gold, trained by David Evans. This is a fair-looking gelding who was sent off 3/1f when making his debut at Lingfield. The form of that race has been franked but this son of Majestic Missile wasn't ever competitive. He looked clueless and needs to be transformed from first to second start to figure here. It isn't beyond the realms he has ability because Evans had him entered to run in the Brocklesby, which is a positive sign. There must have been something about this gelding to start favourite on his racecourse bow so it may be foolish to consider this horse has no chance. If touching huge odds on the exchanges he may be worth a speculative bet because the money may come once more. Two-year-olds can improve beyond recognition from first to second start and even though you have to take a leap of faith stranger things have happened.

Conclusion: A difficult race to assess and the fact there are only seven runners makes an each way bet all the more frustrating. Scargill could improve markedly although he needs to be wiser for that start. Channon has a decent strike rate with juveniles on their second start and I an see this colt going well. Beau Nash could prove the main danger. The first two-year-old runner of the season for Richard Hannon. The shorter the price the greater the chance. Peterkin could go well but the stable are next to impossible to assess with their debutantes. In general, their better two-year-olds appear at the start of May. Cockney Bob, Master Carpenter & Posh Bounty are best watched. Smuggler's Gold looks hopeless but could improve and just might be worth a small wager at huge odds in the hope he is substantially backed.  

3:10 Leicester (16th October) Free Horse Racing Tips

An EBF Maiden Stakes over 7f 9y on good to soft ground.

For a talented juvenile Pythagorean has been a costly horse for punters to follow so far. In truth, this son of Oasis Dream has lost out due to his temperament as much as anything else. That with the fact that he has bumped into a few fair juveniles has seen three place efforts. Perhaps those losses will scare a few punters away but perhaps this will be his day. The key to this youngster is settling. If Baker can sit off the pace and finish with some vigour I would be confident of a big run and sound each way claims. It would be a shame if he is too keen but it is something to consider and factor into his price.

After Richard Hughes' seven-timer at Windsor, it is likely all his rides will be the focus of attention as he sails towards the Jockeys' Championship. *Sea Shanty was made favourite when left trailing behind Pythagorean at Newbury and really needed to have disappointed that day to have any hope of turning the tables on his old adversary. I wouldn't be keen on this juvenile unless substantially backed. If starting a shorter price than Pythagorean it would be a significant pointer.

Sir Michael Stoute's juveniles can be indifferent on debut - some winning while others looking in need of the experience. Hillstar was relatively weak in the betting in what turned out to be a competitive race over 7f at Sandown. This son of Danehill Dancer was much too keen in rear but caught the eye in the closing stages. He may have gone pretty close if not for being slightly hampered in the closing stages. That experience will do him the world of good and the stable have the knack of striking at this course. 

Flashlight has shown promise on both his starts. His second run at Yarmouth is probably the best assessment. This son of Shamardal was an expensive purchase at 135,000eurs. Franny Norton set a fair test that day but this colt was easily out sprinted by the strong finish of Half A Person. It could well be the case the winner had improved a good deal for his first start and capable. However, beyond the winner, you have to question what the rest of the field achieved. Time may tell that was a fair effort but I would have reservations that one or two of these will prove stronger.

With the majority of the field making their debut it will be a tall order for these first timers to beat the likes of Pythagorean et al. The betting is the best guide to their chances. Bredan, Public & Sword Of The Lord make most appeal. The first named races in the silks of Lady Rothschild whose horses have been in sparkling form of late. John Gosden is capable of sending out a debut winner but it would take a smart two-year-old to win on their racecourse bow. The other pair look weak on the exchanges [Monday, evening] and they would need to be supported to make appeal. 

Conclusion: I would stick with those with race experience. Sea Shanty needs to have an excuse for last times lengthy hammering by Pythagorean. Unless exceptionally well backed, I would take a watching brief. Pythagorean has been his own worst enemy in ways. His keen tendencies have left him vulnerable at the finish. After three races - the hood in place - it just might be the day he settles. Baker will focus on doing just that but if the horse has other ideas he may be forced to press on. Either way this colt has a level of ability and it would be a disappointment if he wasn't placed. If settling, I would be confident of an each way wager. That is the gamble. Hillstar is likely to start favourite. Sir Michael Stoute's youngster is sure to improve for that initial start and has a good record at the course. He is the main opposition although I would be tempted to back Pythagorean. Flashlight could well set the pace but has something to prove after being outpointed at Yarmouth. 

*NR

11th September Free Horse Racing Tips

Today's post is written on the hoof so it won't be as detailed as per usual but try to cover a few more races. 

2:20 Leicester

Intimidate has been knocking on the door. Noseda has a fine record at this course with his juveniles and it will take a decent horse to beat this son of Royal Applause. There doesn't look much meat on the bone at less than 6/4. Probably a watching brief unless drifts in the betting.

2:30 Redcar

A crazy-looking handicap. My brother has taken a speculative punt on Oh Boy Oh Boy (monster odds). Difficult one to assess to be fair but Moffatt's horse is quite a good-looking juvenile and this step up to 7f will be a positive. At this weight, with an apprentice on his back, this gelding could show ability today. Personally, I have a feeling Annie Gogh could finally hit the mark. She showed good pace when running over 7f for the first time at Thirsk and was pretty keen which made that a fair effort. If settling a little better she may just lead these a merry dance. I'm pretty sure Fentimen will hit the front so most likely a back to lay.       


2:50 Leicester

Can't say I'm a big fan of Selling races but Sojoum has gone close in a few races and Channon does well at this grade. One of these days she will get her head in front. A fighting chance.

3:00 Redcar

A restricted auction race. Millie N Aire seemed all speed a few runs back but on a couple of later efforts looks to have been struggling to go the pace. Not sure what's going on with that one but if returning to her speedy self has a chance. Why So Fast hasn't had an ounce of luck in her races but she is a good-looking filly. David O'Meara takes over from Stuart William's and I would imagine a bold show will be on the cards. If substantially backed it would be a confident sign. We haven't seen the best of this daughter of Kodiac.  


3:50 Leicester

Another trainer who fires them up at this course is Sir Michael Stoute. Centred ran well on debut and this step up in distance will suit. A big run is expected in what could be a good day for Buik.


Best bets:

2:20 Leicester - Intimidate
2:30 Redcar    - Annie Gogh
3:50 Leicester - Centred

''What a load of rubbish...'' 

Free Horse Racing Tips: Goodwood, Redcar & Leicester

Wednesday:

A few interesting two-year-old races. There could well be an HCE Gold Tip selection, so keep checking the blog. All our subscribers will be kept informed so no worries there. Meetings at Goodwood, Redcar & Leicester. I want to watch the betting exchanges this evening for the markets to settle and will keep my analysis simple a few HCE Mentions. Sometime the brief approach is best. 

Thanks for the support.