Friday 20th December 2013 - Long Walk Hurdle Preview

Long Walk Hurdle Preview

Renowned for its glamour, class and prestige, not for the first time since the national hunt season has commenced, we see Royal Ascot revert to jumps action on Saturday.  Known as the Ladbroke meeting, the fixture offers crucial insight and is often a jungle for punters to attempt to fathom. As the namesake suggests, the entire day is geared towards the 2 mile speed test, enhanced by the sheer number of runners, which makes for an undoubtedly tricky betting prospect. Previous winners include Sentry Duty, Tamarinbleu and 2011 victor Raya Star. That aside, racing followers have been accustomed to tuning in to the Long Walk hurdle earlier on in the card at 2:25 to witness a schooling session for the mightily unchallengeable Big Bucks. However, with that name absent this year, and with gallant Newbury winner Celestial Halo now ruled out with a foot infection the field is reduced once more with only the quintet remaining. Heads are turned to McCoy’s mount and it looks an ideal opportunity for classy Curtis recruit At Fishers Cross to redeem last outings defeat.

Of late the minimalistic fields topic seems to be constantly gathering momentum and remains to post continuous concerns for those in racing, and with the current field of 5 for the £75,000 contest, it is not overly encouraging here. However, all of the horses engaged are rated above 160, the only exception being Tom Symonds’ runner Tweedledrum. This highlights that the select field is not without quality. As previously mentioned we were due to see Celestial Halo grace the turf once again to take on At Fishers Cross whom was unfortunate last time, this rematch alone looked something to savour yet as another absentee is announced the disappointment grows. Among latest withdrawals are brave Coral Cup winner Medinas and puzzling grey Grands Crus (The pipe trained chaser has appeared to have soured with age) and does not attempt to bounce back on this occasion. Entries include previously mentioned At Fishers Cross, fences reject and French Grade 1 winner Reve De Sivola, Gold Cup 5^th Time For Rupert returns from injury along with tough weekend horse Salubrious. Outsider Tweedledrum completes the line-up.

The logical starting point would be to address Celestial Halo’s precession-like 17 length win in the long distance hurdle at Newbury last time- albeit benefitting from the catastrophic error made by At Fishers Cross at the second last flight. Personally I am among the believers that the Rebecca Curtis gelding would have not had it easy had he taken the hurdle in his stride. Ever-green Celestial Halo (alike Reve De Sivola who has graded wins to his name across the water) had been jumping with great fluidity and rhythm, and Jacob had got a breather into him to ensure he could utilize his battling qualities to best effect had he needed them. It wasn’t to be. Yet with racing we know it is totally unpredictable and followers of the sport are aware of the sheer talent At Fishers Cross has after displaying so in his 6 facile victories last season. There is little doubt that should he turn up at the same level as he was at last year, this is his for the taking. Yet last time out his jumping was markedly underwhelming and lacked fluidity in abundance, he didn’t travel as strongly as we know he is capable of either, so in areas doubt still remains.  

Reve De Sivola won this race by 14 lengths in 2012 and although the same margin separated him from Celestial Halo in the race mentioned previously, he would have to be considered the main danger to At Fishers Cross. On official ratings he only has a pound to find and is likely to run another solid race on ground in which he can revel, yet this will also majorly benefit the chances of the favourite. Should At Fishers Cross produce another lack lustre performance shy of his best, the tough 8 year old will surely take advantage.

Time For Rupert reappears from a rare injury, a growth was discovered in his head, this could have caused the gelding to lose his sight had it been unidentified. He has reportedly recovered well from the ordeal after an operation and offers a link to the imperious Big Buck’s after resolutely chasing him home in the 2010 edition of the World Hurdle, only to be denied 3 ¼ lengths. Although his career has been invaded by injuries and inconsistencies he is undoubtedly a top class performer on his day, yet in all reality, it is very unlikely he is to defy such a layoff on Saturday. Time For Rupert is the oldest horse in the race at the age of 9 and is likely to be up against it with the younger contenders snapping at his heels. The Grand National 2014 is his main target so it is unlikely he is 100% tuned up for his return to action.

For Saturday race goers Salubrious is becoming a familiar name- the Nicholls trained hurdler has ran creditably twice on Cheltenham’s staged meetings on Saturdays, and he bids to go one better here. After forcing the pace last time, which arguably is not his preferred role, he finished 2 ¼ lengths behind JP McManus’s useful novice More Of That. Notably he was given a master class of a ride by none other than Sports Personality Of The Year placed AP McCoy. I struggle to see him winning here, as his price suggests at 7-1, yet this consistent and tough 6 year old travels remarkably in his races and stays incredibly well so it would be foolish to discard him totally, especially seeing as the field lacks quantity.  

Last of the contenders is 100-1 shot Tweedledrum, this mare is rated 123 respectively and gains her 7lb allowance yet has no real chance in this company. With 5^th place up for grabs and almost £2000 on offer, it seems she is here to jump a clear round and pick up some prize money, which she is totally entitled to do and I hope she runs well for connections. Little more can be said in regards to her chances.

To conclude, Ascot racecourse will sorely miss the overwhelming presence of established star Big Buck’s this weekend, but after pleasing Paul Nicholls in his gallop at Exeter racecourse on Thursday, we eagerly await his return. This year’s Long Walk hurdle could reveal new dangers he may face upon his belated return to the National Hunt scene. At Fishers Cross looks to have the perfect opportunity to pick up where he left of last season and has the advantage of familiar rider Tony McCoy aboard who will surely get the best out of him. Time For Rupert is surely best watched on all evidence and it is likely Salubrious will find one too good yet again. Reve De Sivola is an integral player and should give the favourite a race if he falls short.

 

Friday 13th December 2013 - International Hurdle Preview

International Hurdle Preview

At a glance it is safe to say Saturday’s International Hurdle has not delivered the same pre-race buzz as it has in previous years. Known as a stepping stone to the Champion Hurdle, usually it is a coming of age for the younger pretenders and a chance for the more exposed horses to prove their worth. Without a doubt the two principals this year are British trained Zarkandar and The New One, the pair are totally equal in terms of official ratings (both 167), which indicates it should be a very interesting battle between these two. Other notable entries at this stage are the intriguing French duo Albert Hall and Seebreeze D’Ho (who add a whole new dimension to the race) along with Jumps Road for the Tizzards, the Tim Vaughan trained Hawkhill and quirky Welsh Champion hurdle victor Court Minstrel.

At 1-2 I believe The New One is pretty short, and as his namesake suggests, he could well be too short against the tough and consistent Zarkandar, although admittedly conditions aren’t in his favour and looks more exposed. Yet he has the ability to win this race, as he did so last year beating the likes of Grandouet and Rock On Ruby. The Azamour gelding is likely to be targeted at the World Hurdle in March, so it does seem that The New One should be winning here over the shorter trip of 2m1, as it appears he is aiming for Champion Hurdle glory. In Zarkandar’s defence, he ran a mighty race giving Annie Power 11lb at Ascot last time, and contrary to common belief, he did not wear the blinkers last term because he was un-genuine- and proved so in no uncertain matter when battling for a brave 2^nd place. Court Minstrel is undoubtedly talented, but even a return to form can’t really see him winning here, and nothing from his last two outings has opposed this view. I wouldn’t dismiss him completely but as we have begun to get to grips with his character, it may be wise to look elsewhere for dangers.

A month ago we saw the Irish bred Dell’ Arca triumph in a competitive Greatwood hurdle after never racing in Britain before (this would be the case should Seebreeze D’Ho win on Saturday). However on ratings him and Albert Hall have in excess of 20lb to find, and with both Zarkandar and The New One posting good efforts first time out, it looks an unlikely scenario. The last and only time Albert Hall ran in the UK was at Kempton and he was pulled up in a race won by Bourne. The form speaks for itself and will be nowhere good enough here. It is likely the French pair are entered to grab a share of the prize money and the same could be said for Hawkhill and Jumps Road respectively. It’s a shame a race of such calibre has only attracted low levels of attention and clearly owners have missed an opportunity, at least to gain some prize money, but it promises to be a fantastic days’ sport nevertheless (seeing as there is top class action elsewhere on the card). I’m convinced, as always is the case, Prestbury Park will not fail to deliver.

Sunday 1st December 2013 - Imperial Commander

Imperial Commander - A Tribute

Inspired by the heart-warming display the 2010 Gold Cup winner provided spectators with on Saturday at the scenic Newbury Racecourse, Maddy Playle dedicates this post to the imperious career of resilient steeplechaser Imperial Commander. Often considered the bridesmaid to the illustrious Paul Nicholls trained duo of Kauto Star and Denman, arguably this old-fashioned chaser seldom gained the recognition his brave performances were worthy of…

Victor of 8 of his 21 starts under rules, after a win in a Summerhill point to point (by 8 lengths) in the July of 2005, he was purchased by the ‘Our Friends In The North’ syndicate. They were unaware of the pure elation this bay gelding would supply them and many others with up and down the UK in the following years. Imperial Commander opened his account under rules at none other than Prestbury Park- this alliance proved crucial 4 years in advance, but on this occasion he sauntered home 8 lengths in front of subsequent classy Whateley recruit Snap Tie. Exciting times were ahead, yet his next win was 2 years on in a 2m4f hurdle at Newcastle, albeit by a scintillating 19 lengths. In the same year, 2 runs later he returned to the location of his bumper victory and the place he would make his own in the forthcoming seasons (over 50% of Imperial Commanders runs were at the prestigious Cheltenham racecourse) and again won in style by 16 lengths. 27 days later he repeated the success, this time by 11 lengths. The next run wasn’t up to the mark, nor as stylish as his previous attempts, finishing last of 4 behind Joe Lively, a gorgeous horse whom sadly passed away prematurely in the January of 2011, aged 12 (RIP). By notching up a series of wins following this, the Commander rose to top class level and famously commanded a battle with none other than Kauto Star in a thrilling renewal of the Betfair Chase. He was among only a select few that had the ability to challenge the miraculous talent of Kauto Star, only to fail by a nose. This war of attrition established Imperial Commander’s rightful place as one of the best around, yet due to the publics’ obsessive affection with the likes of Kauto Star and Denman, he remained the underdog and relatively unconsidered. Two runs later this gorgeous steeplechaser emerged up the hill through typical torrential rain and silenced the doubters in the merciless running of the Gold Cup, which was beforehand dubbed ‘The two horse race’. Words cannot describe the emotions felt in such a short amount of time: Racegoers held their breath as Kauto Star crashed out and slid gut-wrenchingly along the sodden Cheltenham turf, bravery and admiration was personified as Denman listed the second of his three Gold Cup seconds. However above all else, the racecourse atmosphere was something to savour, it was electric as connections celebrated the best day of Imperial Commanders career.

It’s safe to say after that memorable day in March things were never the same, other than a simply brilliant performance when winning the Betfair Chase, showing the remainder of contestants a clean pair of heels and jumping with fluidity and boldness in abundance. Sadly that was to be the last time Imperial Commander came home in front. Personally, one of my treasured recollections of this horse was his fairly recent return from injury in the Argento Chase. As my eyes welled up, spurred by an overwhelming sense of sentiment and joy, I was only to be disappointed as the Malcolm Jefferson trained Cape Tribulation passed the old king strides before the line. Luckless next time under a mammoth weight in the Grand National, Saturday's Hennessey Gold Cup was to be his swansong. Although he was pulled up 4 out, he revelled earlier in the race when adopting his familiar front-running position and was evidently enjoying every second, which is nothing short of what his fans wanted to see. Imperial Commander wasn’t a world-beater, and regular race goers were under no illusions, he was no Kauto Star or Denman, but he offered something they failed to, the ability to overcome the victim status. Thus, propelling him to National Hunt stardom and giving him a guaranteed permanent place in history. Rejoice in your retired role, Imperial Commander, we bid you farewell and offer our thanks for the good days.

 

 

 

Picture courtesy of Michael Harris- Imperial Commander bids goodbye to the racing world with long time groom Richard 'Sparky' Bevis.

 

 

 

 

 



Saturday 30th November 2013 - Fighting Fifth Preview

Fighting Fifth Preview

This is only a brief preview of this year’s Newcastle Champion Hurdle Trial as other events this Saturday are  forefront in my mind, yet it does not fall short of the mark and should give us lots to look forward to. By reviewing each horse’s chances individually I hope to clarify which have serious claims and look ahead to long-term targets, as after all, this race is often used as a stepping stone for better things.

Cotton Mill 20-1:

I think 20-1 realistically reflects this horse’s chance, he was fancied for the Elite and it’s fair to say he disappointed some people considerably on that occasion. Crucially his Wincanton victor reposes here and has to be the preferred contestant.

Duke of Navan 16-1:

My pick of the race is Duke of Navan. This unexposed 5 year old has shown so much potential when notching up an impressive series of wins, albeit only at Kelso. Since he began his National Hunt career (only 6 runs ago) he has been pitched in at the top level, running against the likes of promising Eduard, classy River Maigue and recent Cheltenham novice chase winner Dodging Bullets. This goes to show how much his connections think of him. Admittedly he has a lot to find and it is his first run of the season but I see him as a really interesting horse. Seeing as he’s 16-1 currently, I believe he’s value in a really interesting race, especially on each way terms. Discard Duke of Navan at your peril.

Grumeti 9-1:

A short time ago Grumeti was one of the most exciting, well established and consistent novice hurdlers in training. Upon his return to action he posted a performance shy of his best, finishing 4^th in the Scottish Champion Hurdle to Court Minstrel, although that horse is regarded as “the best hurdler” Evan Williams has ever trained, he’s not gone to replicate that performance this term. Sametegal is the only other horse that has boosted the form, with Ifandbutwhynot falling late on, so I don’t think that race has the strongest look to it and surely he wasn’t at his best. He isn’t always the best coming back from a break so it remains to be seen whether he can pose a threat to the winning position but I wish him well on his return to the top level over jumps.

Melodic Rendezvous 5-2:

I mentioned this horse in my Elite Hurdle review on my blog and I fail to see how you couldn’t be impressed with the performance he gave. At the start of the season I was keen to add this horse to my ten to follow, even though I had a few doubts as he didn’t seem to beat anything of much calibre last season, especially seeing as the Puffin Billy episode is continuously losing its appeal. He looks very much a Champion Hurdle contender and he should give My Tent Or Yours something to think about here. He jumps, travels and picks up on a variety of ground conditions and I feel you’d have to have him on your shortlist. Barring any serious mishaps he should be in the firing line and the victory is his for the taking if he can stamp his authority on the favourite (from a betting perspective), however personally I hold a preference for this horse.

My Tent Or Yours 8-11:

My Tent Or Yours is the favourite for this race and many people believe he will win the Champion Hurdle, even at this stage in the season. Connections had a similar scenario for the ill-fated Darlan (RIP). From my view this horse travels extremely well in his races, so much so at times his enthusiasm can result to his downfall in the latter stages of the race, but on his day he looks something special. Like Melodic Rendezvous he is a really consistent horse, and it has to be remembered that he has never been out of the first two in his life- I think something will have to be seriously amiss were we to see that statistic broken tomorrow. As I said previously, I prefer the year older Elite winner seeing as he has the benefit of a run but for many this horse has already won, and confidence often speaks volumes.

Rock Relief 150-1:

Rock Relief is the outsider of the field at 150-1 respectively and shows no reason why he shouldn’t be that price. You would struggle to make a case for him here.

Stormy Weather 100-1:

Likewise, this grey has ran in the race before behind Overturn, but in truth that offers little to suggest he’ll figure here as he the second least fancied horse in the race.

Cockney Sparrow 12-1:

Currently 4^th best in the market this four year old filly offers something new to the race being the only female engaged. John Quinn’s handling of this improving horse has been excellent and she deserves to take her chance here. I can’t see her progressing to Champion Hurdle potential, particularly due to the strength of this year’s renewal, but she has a considerable chance here and rightfully deserves the incline in class. Her last two victories will stand her in good stead yet I can’t see her beating the likes of Melodic Rendezvous and My Tent Or Yours. Her trainer believes she has a chance but referred to one of the others not displaying their best, so you would think a place would be the realistic target, with a future view to possibly the Mares Hurdle at Cheltenham, rather than the Champion.

Sunday 24th November 2013 - Betfair Chase Review

Saturday’s Betfair Chase, registered as the Lancashire Chase, was beforehand titled ‘a mini Gold Cup’ and the almighty hype was answered in truly typical national hunt style with a big shock. With quality racing elsewhere, admittedly overshadowed by the minimalistic fields, this was certainly the show-piece on what promised to be a huge day regarding future plans for the best staying chasers England has/had to offer. Cue Card emphatically silenced the doubters (one of whom was myself), with a bold front-running display to notch up “the best performance of his career”, beating the likes of consistent and previous victor of the Gold Cup Long Run, reigning Gold Cup hero Bobs Worth, class act Silviniaco Conti, flashy young pretender Dynaste, and the enigmatic old rogue Tidal Bay.
There was little hiding place for error in a strongly ran race from start to finish by the winner, which surprisingly contributed to the downfall of the more experienced horses. Ironic as it seems, being perhaps one of the most questioned runners, Cue Card has really made his mark on the race and obliged in style. It was a welcomed win for team Tizzard, the father and son combination that are not shy of success yet have arguably not gained the credit they have deserved, until now.

Dynaste ran a gallant race in second for the in-form stable of David Pipe, yet was simply stunned by Cue Cards relentless gallop and solid jumping ability, he travelled the best of all into the race but never posed a serious threat to the latter mentioned. He has lost very little in defeat and lives to fight another day, though it remains to be seen whether winning the best race of them all in March is within his capabilities. You couldn’t be discouraged however and he could find more improvement, the King George looks the ideal race for him next considering his brilliant Feltham win as a novice.

Silviniaco Conti ran a good race, but ultimately disappointed his supporters with a rather lack lustre run, in addition, Far West also was beaten, so the form of Paul Nicholls’ string has to be questioned. Others posted worse efforts though and he would be one to keep on the right side of- who knows how last year’s Gold Cup would have finished had he stood up at the third last? Overall I wouldn’t be overly disheartened by his showing as he jumped and stayed on well, yet from a horse of this calibre (with a highest official rating of 175) you would have hoped for more, he was beaten comprehensively by the better horse on the day.

Long Run finished in fourth position after his horrendously bad yet justifiable run against Harry Topper in the Charlie Hall. Not for the first time his jumping down the Haydock back straight led to his demise, allowing the others to flood past, something that he could simply not get away with in a race of this quality. He’s ultra-consistent and an admirable horse for what he has achieved, he is still only 8 yet it seems his time has passed, is there any more to come from the Henderson trained horse? I highly doubt he would be able to replicate the great Kauto Star in regaining the Cheltenham Gold Cup now.

Tidal Bay was fancied by many to go well in this race and is one of the most popular horses in training. With Sam Twiston-Davies aboard again and a notable second to Imperial Commander in the Betfair Chase previously to boast, he looked to hold a decent chance. In a nutshell he was always at the rear, jumped reasonably and stayed on at the one pace. The main question is where to go from here, is the Gold Cup still a logical long term target? Or will he return to the scene of his second place in the Hennessey next weekend? The Grand National is also an option for the later stages of the season yet weight would surely pay a significant part in that plan. I expected him to stay on better than he did as the pace was so fast, maybe he wasn’t in the mood on this occasion!

Surely the talking horse of the race has to be Bobs Worth- with his illustrious record going left-handed, his preference for the softer ground and his form fresh all being discarded as he finished sixth, 40 lengths behind Cue Card. This suggests something was clearly amiss. However he was eased by jockey Barry Geraghty, so I’m sure he’ll be back to his best another day. I think it was admirable how they looked after him. After hitting a flat spot when winning the Gold Cup, he stayed on again up the hill, he was one of the first main players off the bridle here and wasn’t able to recover, even though the ground conditions were similar to those he experienced and revelled in at Cheltenham. There’s no doubt Bobs Worth it a tough little animal and even though he is often considered a festival horse, he won the Hennessey very well, which could be his next port of call. Fitness may also have been the issue, but I think it’s a run that may well be forgotten for numerous reasons.

Little needs to be said about The Giant Bolster, whom also runs well at Cheltenham. He proved many of us to be correct this outing; he is just slightly below top class. He’s a brave horse who runs well when punching above his weight and no one can begrudge his owners for running him in these top class races as he clearly has talent, but it was never going to be enough on this day.

Roi Du Mee was pulled up unsurprisingly after being up with the leader for a long way, this highlights how well Cue Card did stay, as those who took him on were legless at the time when he was still forging on relentlessly, showing his ability to stretch again and stay on in the final furlong. Roi Du Mee is a smart horse in his own right, and I think he has another big race in him, yet it may be wise to stay the other side of the Irish Sea to see him at his best and therefore another Grade 1 victory may not come easy to the Gigginstown chaser.

Overall, Saturday’s racing was exciting and informative, Cue Card was simply awesome, yet without being too negative, I think it’s safe to say the likes of Silviniaco Conti, Tidal Bay and especially Bobs Worth ran below par. Personally the winner doesn’t hit me as a Gold Cup horse, yet he may well continue to do well elsewhere, or progress to prove me incorrect. Crucially it will be intriguing to see how the form works out and whether it bares much relevance- several horses where having their first run of the season (the winner had the benefit of a run) and I think the form of the stable counts for a lot at this stage in the season. Finally, I would just like to give my congratulations to Colin and Joe Tizzard as I think they have done a very good job with this horse and appear to be one of the most respected, well-liked partnerships in national hunt racing today.

Monday 11th November 2013 - Elite Hurdle Review

First off, as it has been by far one of the most eventful weeks in racing I have witnessed for a long time, I would like to add my congratulations to Tony McCoy for reaching 4000 winners. (Also, due to it being Remembrance Sunday yesterday, I found it respectful to delay this posts publication, I wouldn't want to be promoting it on such an occasion). It was only a few weeks ago I wrote a piece in tribute to the Champion jockey (this can be seen one of my other posts) to everything he has given to the sport, it would certainly not be the same without him. It is a truly incredible feat, and to echo the great, late words of Sir Henry Cecil, regarding Frankel, "I'd be very surprised if there's ever been better" and ever will be...

Landmarks aside, Saturday's racing was a superb prospect beforehand and more than justified the hype. Wincanton's Badger Ales meeting is always popular and usually provides spectators with a fabulous day as often big names are declared and again gets people anticipating the jumps season in earnest. Although I had success when proudly tipping/advising Alfie Spinner e/w at 33-1 in the main race of the day, I wish to focus on the previous race, the Elite Hurdle, in which my luck seemed to have ran out. On my previous blog I did a piece on my Ten To Follow, (sadly this is now no longer viewable) one of which was yesterdays returning Melodic Rendezvous. Yet ironically I was encouraged by Harry Fry's promising 7 year old Karinga Dancer whom opposed- prior to the race he had won convincingly at Aintree yet it seemingly it hadn't taken a lot out of him, and on his last visit to the track had won by 10 lengths. Plus the fact that it appeared Melodic Rendezvous didn't beat a whole lot last season, especially with the entire Puffin Billy episode continuously loosing its appeal. But as ever, racing finds ways to remind those who fail to elude to it's unpredictability! As it turned out Karinga Dancer was unfathomably disappointing, he was the first horse off the bridle and only managed a tame 5th, and Melodic Rendezvous made me look an utter fool by winning like an extremely good animal. It would also be wise to add that the horses beaten were of a high standard too: Cotton Mill, Far West, Ahyaknowyerself and Ruler Of All respectively. Cotton Mill has always been a nice horse but personally I'm not his biggest fan, he was another who didn't travel particularly well when they began to quicken at the head of affairs yet will surely improve for his effort. Far West ran pretty much as expected and we know he's very good, it will be interesting to see how the Triumph Hurdle form with Our Conor works out. Personally I think Ahyaknowyerself ran a very good race in 3rd as well, yet this could just be subject to the fact he was one of the fitter contestants. The way the winner slipped coming around the bend and was able to pick up again after missing the 2nd last shows that he is clearly capable of better things, and must have secured himself in the Champion Hurdle picture now. He reportedly 'would need the run' by trainer Jeremy Scott, yet ran right to the line and stayed on impressively- this poses the question: How good could he be when fully fit and primed to run?




The 2013 Elite Hurdle winner, Melodic Rendezvous. Is he destined for Champion Hurdle victory come March?

It is often hard to judge the form at the beginning of the season and sometimes it does not always bare much importance, yet instinctually I feel Saturday's race will work out fine. For those who are interested, as mentioned previously, I did do a Ten To Follow piece, and the horses mentioned were: Melodic Rendezvous, Jezki, Inish Island, Godsmejudge, Theatre Guide, Tidal Bay, Montbazon, L'Unique, African Gold and (for those who follow me on Twitter) of course Last Instalment. Also on Saturday the winner of the Novice Chase at Wincanton was Wonderful Charm, so I found it appropriate to share the photo my stepfather took of him pre World Hurdle on the Thursday at this years Cheltenham festival.

A glace of determination from the masterful Ruby Walsh as Wonderful Charm circles at the start. (I was very jealous of my stepdad who doesn't bare much interest for racing! I was sadly at school at the time.)

Sunday 3rd November 2013 - The Charlie Hall Chase

This is different from anything I have attempted to write about before so I await your feedback with interest. After the events of yesterday’s racing, I was intrigued to research the history and impact that the Wetherby showcase race has on the finalities of the season. Won multiple times by the likes of Wayward Lad, See More Business and more recently the grand old stager Ollie Magern, the unique left handed test is open to horses 5 years and older and is often used to mark the start of the National Hunt season. This prestigious 3 mile 1 furlong race gained its namesake in 1978, in memory of the trainer Charlie Hall. The £100,000 purse rightfully attracts a variety of combinations year in year out, so other than a starting point for classy staying chasers, does the race serve many clues to performances in the significant latter stages of the season?

To begin investigating the impact of the race, I found it only fitting to use previous years as an example. Without a doubt the race has brought us fans a mouth-watering spectacle for many a year, and last year was no exception, when Silviniaco Conti triumphed in impressive style. The horse went on to win the Betfair Chase at Haydock, the Denman chase at Newbury (formally known as the Aon) and become one of the leading fancies for the almighty Gold Cup. The Charlie Hall is often used to gauge the horse’s chances of becoming a pretender to the Gold Cup crown in March or English Grand National in April. So can this November chase give us any idea of what to expect come the spring? After Wetherby, if a horse succeeds in satisfying connections, it is presented with a number of high class options- including the Hennessey, the King George, or those mentioned previously (Betfair or Denman chase) amongst others.

By using the last 5 winners of the race, and their resulting positions for the remainder of the races they contested in the same season, we can see how horses perform following their victory in the Charlie Hall.

2012: Silviniaco Conti (OR – 156)

Subsequent form: 11F3

2011: Weird Al (OR – 151)

Subsequent form: 3PUF

2010: Nacarat (OR – 158)

Subsequent form: 44314

2009: Deep Purple (OR – 151)

Subsequent form: 1PU46

2008: State Of Play (OR – 152)

Subsequent form: 44

Using this information, a horse requires to roughly run up to a mark of 153(.6) to be in with a chance of firstly conquering the Charlie Hall. If you are a racing fan you understand the quality of horses that contest is good, yet in relation to those who win the best of the best races later on, often they are just below standard in regards of ability. (Silviniaco Conti is just one example of a horse to oppose this). From the above, it shows that on average horses run 4.4 times after becoming victorious in the race. From looking at their form, after winning the race, in general they then appear to deteriorate throughout the season- highlighting the fact that to have a horse win a Charlie Hall chase, it would be a positive if it peaked early in the season. In the last 5 renewals we can see that the targets or long term aspirations for the winners usually became the Grand National or the Gold Cup (as previously mentioned). 0 of the past 5 winners have won a Gold Cup or Grand National. Obviously statistics and trends are there to be broken and See More Business (the only horse since 1990 to go on and win the Gold Cup) has proved this. However it would be sensible to add that he was a much better horse than any of the recent winners, his highest official rating being 177. Again, since 1990 no horse has gone from winning the Charlie Hall to win the English Grand National either.


 

See More Business- the horse that won 3 Charlie Hall chases and a Cheltenham Gold Cup.

 

To conclude, this shows that the Charlie Hall chase is a popular starting point for high quality staying chasers, however if you are looking for a horse to go on and triumph in the later stages of the season, it may be wise to look elsewhere. Do we think Harry Topper is destined for more big race success this season, to follow in the hoof prints of last year’s victor Silivianco Conti? Or will the Kim Bailey trained chaser fall short of glory later in the season as so many have done in previous years? Please let me know your thoughts via Twitter (@mp_horseracing) or post a comment below.

 

Friday 25th October 2013 - The Grand National

Often considered the pinnacle of the national hunt season, the Grand National is a race which never fails to immerse itself in public controversy. 30 fences, 4 miles 3 1/4 furlongs with 40 participants all racing for a victory promised to be forever steeped in history and a share of the £975,000 purse, the unique event is held annually over the famous spruce fences at Aintree racecourse. Since its introduction in 1839, it has been the ultimate equestrian spectacle. The sporting event is viewed by over 500 million people worldwide in upwards of 140 countries. We have seen the stories such as: Foinavan, Aldaniti and Bob Champion, 'The race that never was' in 1993, 'The Monday National' and of course the unforgettable era of Red Rum, grace it's Liverpudlian stage for centuries. Does the race define cruelty to animals and is only staged for the benefit of those financially related? Or is it a bloodless tradition for those who adore the challenging sport and the natural beauty of the man and animal as one?


For as long as I can remember, the first Saturday in April was always a day dedicated to the National, (as it is in many households around Britain and beyond- it's popularity is evidently vast all around the globe) despite my family having no interest in the sport otherwise. £1 stake bets would be placed each way on the morning of the race. Come post time numerous members of my family assembled in the lounge, all waiting in anticipation for the famous Aintree cavalry charge to the first. Years went by and this tradition remained unchanged, however, aged 11 was when I became more intrigued, 100-1 shot Mon Mome strode clear at the elbow under Liam Treadwell to notch a famous victory, passing the line a cloud of silence fell over Aintree as the nation attempted to comprehend such a result- the National will never be predictable, unlike other sporting events, this is part of its ageless appeal. However it was the following year when my perspective on the great race really began to change, again, thanks to one special horse who will always remain in my memory- Black Apalachi. Ironically, the story of the race was AP McCoy winning his first Grand National, yet all that seemed to concern me was the dark horse leading most of the way, relentlessly galloping from each obstacle, measuring them well and refusing to be denied. I was astonished by the horses ability and mesmerised by his sustained power, my eyes tracked him the entire race, still shouting when McCoy took Don't Push It past. I was so proud of him, yet before that day I had no clue such an animal even existed. In a paragraph, this is what the race means to me, personally: admiring the bravery of both jockey and horse. (I would also happily like to add that Black Apalachi is now enjoying his retirement in Galway and gets '5 star treatment' according to Sandra Hughes, daughter of trainer D T Hughes.)

My hero- Black Apalachi, who battled his way to a brave 2nd place in the 2010 renewal of the Grand National with Denis O'Regan aboard.

However, I have always been aware of the contrasting view, as in 2012 my mother and sister gasped in horror as they saw the green screens surrounding areas of the course, tears falling down their face as they realised what was occurring on the television before them. As a horse owner myself, and passionate follower of racing, the horses welfare is paramount to me, and in each incident in which a horse is fatally injured I feel the same gut-wrenching feeling in my stomach, the epitome of sorrow, as I did the previous time. This shows the power of the sport, because it never stops me from watching the next race and is something some lovers of horse racing sadly become increasingly desensitised to. Over the years as I have realised the extent of the publics' importance, the entire aura around the 'cruelty to animals' lark has frustrated me (understandably as a fan). Particularly when people of my age resorted to Facebook to air their concerns "It's unfair, horses are whipped until they die" and "I hate horse racing, it deserves to be banned completely". Their logic bemused me- for people whom only watch the same race each year, have no knowledge of the sport, the procedures taken and crucially the love for the animals involved, and base that opinion on around 5 days of their life (the past 5 Nationals) sickens me. In an aspect it highlights the single-minded nature to which our society has willingly succumbed. I understand a lot of people are professionally attempting to alter the race with the horses' needs in mind, and I truly respect this, as these people are not uneducated in the manner of the game and are working in co-operation with Aintree and the BHA for a positive outcome. And with no fatalities or injuries in 2013 (as Auroras Encore came home in front), it appears to have made a difference, which is excellent. I hope the relationship between organisations remains as it is now as the Grand National, rightfully named, deserves to continue to provide sentiment by the bucket load, year in year out to those who watch it for the right reasons.

Monday 21st October 2013 - The return of National Hunt / 4000 Winners

Since I first became interested in horse racing, the jumps game has always been at the forefront of my passion. The sight of many a brave horse and jockey negotiating a path through mud-soaked turf and over numerous obstacles never fails to bring a smile to my face- whether it be Aintree, Fontwell, Haydock, Leopardstown or the sheer glorified atmosphere of Cheltenham. The hard work, mud, stories, sentiment and passion shown by those in the racing community mystifies me to the same degree as when my fixation with National Hunt began...

So as the October month nears its completion, the nights draw in and the temperatures drop, my focus this week has been on the transition from one almighty flat season to what promises to be a superb period over the jumps. I find it only fitting to begin my blog with a positive outlook on one of the main stories around at the current time. AP McCoy has been champion jockey 18 times. To the ordinary person, this seems an astonishing feat, but for those who understand the capabilities of one of the most idolised men in sport, it only begins to explain what this man has achieved. Currently the champion is remarkably 22 victories away from the magnificent 4000 benchmark. In my mind racing should look up to this man who has done wonders for the sport (above the likes of Frankie Dettori whom although embraces the media attention more which is very important, has ultimately betrayed the industry in his scandalous drugs ordeal). The bravery and resilience AP has shown is simply unthinkable and seemingly unattainable, he has been a relentless force ever since he arrived on the horse racing scene, the fact he has remained at the top and has only become stronger for the pain he has endured highlights to me how proud everyone should be of him. Regardless of my bias (as I admittedly take preference for the winter game over the showbiz and more financially impacted flat season) I believe although McCoy has also made mistakes, we should enjoy watching him doing what he does best this season and prepare for yet more scintillating performances in the saddle.

The firepower McCoy has at his fingertips this season is truly exciting. With the likes of the formidable At Fishers Cross, talented My Tent Or Yours, tough Teaforthree, promising Taquin Du Seuil and enigmatic Get Me Out Of Here to ride up and down the country is a delicious spectacle. Barring injury he is surely set for an outstanding year. In addition, not only do I recommend his autobiography but also his fiction material that has now been released (Taking The Fall) as I read the first few chapters of it online the other day. I hope you all join me in wishing him good luck in reaching 4000 winners and having a successful season that leaves us wanting more and forcing us to yet still question his skill and determination in the saddle. Undoubtedly and unquestionably he is a figure racing wouldn't be the same without.

AP's novel can be ordered online from stores such as Amazon. If you are keen into understanding the life of a jockey it is a read I would certainly recommend.

Welcome to my new blog: Wishful Thinking

Welcome to my amateur blog

 

 

The purpose of this blog is to publish my recent opinions on different aspects of the horse racing industry. I aim to portray my passion through the sport via blog posts to those who love this infectious, traditional and often controversial sport as dearly as myself. Posts will be as frequently as every week, assessing the weeks racing news and sharing my tips and financial interests within the game. Thanks go to those who support me and encourage my enthusiasm, anyone willing to contact me or discuss anything horse racing, please send me a direct message via Twitter- my tag is: Mp_Horseracing. I gratefully await your feedback.  


 

On the 24th February 2007 was the first time I backed a winner, aged 9. Little did I know in 3 years time I would become captivated by the beauty of running horses and unhealthily obsessed by the Sport of Kings. So I wish to thank and dedicate my introductory blog post to Punjabi (subsequent Champion Hurdler).