CELEBRATE EASTER A WEEK EARLY

Today sees the opening day of the Irish flat season, together with more racing at Doncaster plus jumps action at Ascot and Limerick. Similar to yesterday's blog, I'm going to rattle through my selections.

CURRAGH

3:45- EASTER. A promising debut was followed by a win in a competitive maiden. Looked a smart filly in both outings and could be one to watch in Classics this year if she runs well today.

Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore team up with Easter

AFTERNOON SUNLIGHT. A win and a placed effort in two Group 3 races was followed by a complete no show on her final run of the season. Ignoring that run would put her in with a chance today.

2:40- MULKEYYA. Half sister to stable's Muaanid, who won first time out and the high class Mustajeeb. Could well pick up the pieces if Aidan O'Brien's proved hard to win with like last season.

4:20- SEXY LEGS. Still a maiden and could be nicely weighted based on her storming run against the best two year-old fillies around in the Albany at Royal Ascot.

DUNQUIN. Another maiden who could be nicely weighted based on his three starts as a juvenile.

4:55- STUCCODOR. Last year's winner is taken to win again. Will like the ground and has had a similar prep over hurdles as last year.

5:25- APPEARED and MESMERISM. Both ran respectable debuts, the former's being better than the latter. Hopefully both these Dubawi colts have come on for those runs.

DONCASTER

2:15- JUST CHING. Charlie Hills had a newcomer filly win yesterday; this half sister to Royal Irish Hussar could run a nice race.

2:45- NORTRON. Andrew Balding's Makfi colt ran well on debut then was denied victory by an odds-on shot next time out. Could have found a nice opportunity to break his duck today.

ASCOT

3:05- BARON ALCO. Won on British debut but has ran some disappointing races of late, the most recent being in the Fred Winter at Cheltenham. Dropped six pounds for that so is now potentially well handicapped and will welcome any rain.

STERNRUBIN. Bypassed the Cheltenham route so could be fresher than most. Bottom weight which makes him appealing although he'll have to find more on his bare form.

LIMERICK

5:40- EAGLE PASSING. A tough ask to win this Listed bumper on debut but Gordon Elliot's runners in these events always warrant respect.

Enjoy your Sunday

Happy Punting!

RETURN OF THE FLAT

The flat returns with a bang today, with top quality racing from Doncaster and Dubai, together with two British all-weather cards with there fair share of decent action too in Kempton and Chelmsford City. Plenty to look at so I'm going to be as brief as possible.

DONCASTER

1:25- RAVENHOE. Speedily bred so five furlongs will be right up his street. Trainer can ready them first time up.

2:00- BALTIC KNIGHT. Ran a respectable race last time out, potentially coming back to form. Will only have a chance if Tullius isn't on his game today.

2:35- NAADIRR. With the likes of Aetna and Jack Dexter probably wanting softer ground, Marco Botti's sprinter may be the one to side with. Won a good listed race last time out. Astaire needs to find some of his two year-old form as he's been of the boil of late.

3:10- CERTIFICATE. With plenty of exposed types in this, it could pay to go for the horse who's seen a racecourse the fewest times. Will have to step up a bit on two runner-up efforts last year but he's likely to have improvement in him.

KING TORUS. Two pounds below his last winning mark. Same mark as when he ran on his debut for David O'Meara on ground that might have been too heavy for him. Chance.

3:45- GABRIAL'S KAKA. Only a pound above his last winning mark thanks to Jack Garrity's five pound claim. Ran good races since that success despite not winning. Good ground will be to his liking.

Gabrial's Kaka

BRONZE ANGEL. Loves these big field and hard to see him not being involved in the finish.

Bronze Angel

BARAWEEZ. Was a brilliant servant to me last year and it would be wrong of me not back him again. Ignoring his last run, he would definitely be one to keep an eye on.

Baraweez

4:20- LEDBURY. Should come on for debut run at Wolverhampton, where he wasn't knocked around too much. Shaped as though a step up in trip would suit too.

MEYDAN

1:15- ALMOONQITH. Step up to one mile six furlongs worked the oracle last time out, winning decisively. Could be important that he has had a recent run too.

1:55- MAFTOOL. Step up in trip a slight worry but he's a classy, albeit quirky, individual. Don't see why Mubtaahij should be half the price.

3:05- RICH TAPESTRY. A fairly average G1 this. Should have a chance if leaving his no-show at the Breeders Cup last time out behind him.

3:40- CLADOCERA. Ran very well in last two Meydan starts and another big run should be expected for this stylish French filly.

EURO CHARLINE. Quite a step up considering she was running at Wolverhampton twelve months ago. Grade 1 winner in America, could run well at her price.

4:15- HARP STAR. Classy Japanese filly who was given a peculiar ride in the Arc. Ryan Moore should be able to unlock her true potential.

MAIN SEQUENCE. No longer referred to as "second in Camelot's Derby" after a streak of wins that culminated in the Breeders Cup turf. Meydan an unknown but he's definitely turned a corner and is worth his place in this.

5:00- LEA. Some smart form in America on dirt and could be good enough to beat countrymate California Chrome.

EPIPHANEIA. Dirt an unknown but his win Japan Cup suggested that he should be good enough to play a big role here. Gets on with Christophe Soumillon well.

BRITISH AW

2:20 Chelmsford- REGARDS. Good debut, unsuited by being taken a bit wide on next run.

2:55 Chelmsford- BURATINO. Bred by Exceed And Excel so should be speedy enough for this.

5:15 Chelmsford- MAVERICK WAVE. Ran a nice enough race in the Winter Derby Trial and has a big chance here if able to dictate the race by getting an early lead.

2:50 Kempton- NEW YEARS NIGHT. Revelation since being stepped up in trip, good chance against more exposed types.

LATIN CHARM. Won last two races and although this is a step up in class, he is worth his chance in this.

3:25 Kempton- BOOMERANG BOB. Ran a nice race behind the useful Pretend. Only upped a pound for that and is expected to come on for it.

PERFECT PASTURE. Ran well at Southwell last time out and is a smart handicapping sprinter on his day.


Have a great Saturday

Happy Punting!

BACK ROSE FOR THE REPEAT

With racing still apparently suffering from the Cheltenham hangover, it would appear that Saturday's offerings are representative of that. Cards courtesy of Newbury and Kelso are the highlights of a fairly drab day's action. So, without further ado, lets crack on...                             

2:00 Newbury- Given her course form, PEPITE ROSE has to be a major player here. She's three from four here, the only defeat being a fall when she was in the process of running a big race. Venetia Williams' eight year-old mare runs off the same mark as when she won this very race twelve months ago and the good ground will be in her favour. As many of the opposition will either want the ground softer or are simply not good enough, Pepite Rose has to have a big chance.

Pepite Rose

Also, if he's able to get an easy lead, BOBCATBILLY could run a good race. These tactics have seen him win two of his last three.


2:35 Newbury- This mares handicap hurdle is always a competitive affair, with many of the field holding realistic chances. SPARTAN ANGEL has looked like she has been craving good ground all season; her summer wins all came on that surface with her two most recent defeats coming on softer ground. Sneaks in at the bottom of the weights and will be hoping to capitalise on that.

TARA MIST has some high class bumper form and should also find the ground to her liking. Her defeat behind As De Mee last time out was franked as he won a valuable event at Sandown on Imperial Cup day.


3:10 Newbury- FINANCIAL CLIMATE has been in a rich vein of form recently, with two successes in a row. He'll stay all day and although regular jockey Thomas Garner isn't taking the ride today, he's definitely got an able deputy aboard in AP McCoy.

Financial Climate

3:45 Newbury- Although this race is a little further than the Fred Winter, this could be considered as a 'B' race for the Cheltenham juvenile handicap event. LIL ROCKERFELLER has recorded respectable placed efforts behind Triumph runners Devilment and Pain Au Chocolat, the last of which being at Doncaster, where he was four-and-a-half lengths behind John Ferguson's ex-flat inmate. On that occasion, he was badly hampered and probably would have finished even closer were it not for that. Looks nicely weighted and should run a big race.

GIMME FIVE is a horse who has gone under the radar this National Hunt season, mainly due to his last couple of runs being under flat rules on the all-weather. The good ground will be to his liking and might well be nicely brought along for this. Many in this have chances; the biggest danger in my view may well be Alzammaar, who was behind Lil Rockerfeller last time out.

Newbury 4:20- Both THE UNIT and MR KIT CAT ran respectable debuts, finishing third in their respective bumpers. They were both beaten by Henderson horses and he's represented by Cultivator, for the same ownership as 2013 Gold Cup winner Bobs Worth. A horse who could run a big race at a chunky price is OCTAGON. He ran well for a long way in a decent Musselburgh bumper against some experienced types and was far from disgraced. Sam Twiston-Davies is an interesting jockey booking; he could outrun his odds of 25/1.

Kelso 2:50- I've backed RACING EUROPE in his last two runs, where he finished fourth on both occasions. The Pertemps qualifier at Haydock was a farcical race, where Bygones Sovereign stole another race under enterprising tactics. Brian Ellison's runner ran with credit that day and is taken again to run another big race. Spookdooky will be the biggest threat but a thirteen pound rise for his latest win won't make life easy.

Kelso 3:25- This may prove to be a battle of the Oscar's, Rock and Fortune. However, at the prices, GALLERY EXHIBITION may be the one to side with. He's won two of his last three, so there's no doubting his curren form.

Kelso 5:10- Although SHOTOFWINE was well beaten by the winner last time out, he and the third were well clear of the rest in a Catterick bumper. His form before that was relatively strong as well. As for the newcomers, GULLY'S EDGE could be worth backing, for a trainer in Malcolm Jefferson who can ready them first time out. His sire Kayf Tara revels with his runners in the bumper sphere so keep an eye on him.

Thoughts from each of the course's bumpers to follow...

Enjoy your Saturday

Happy Punting!

Cheltenham- Day Four

Friday sees the blue riband event of the Festival, the Gold Cup. The race is sandwiched between six other ultra-competitive affairs, where the smallest field size is 17. With rain forecast (and lots of it) these selections are chosen with sofPlenty to get through and plenty of fancies, so without further ado...

Race 1- Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1) 1:30

This year's renewal looks a classy race and because there are so many nice sorts in it, it's become very hard to call.

PETITE PARISIENNE- The last three winners of this ran in the Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown, which Willie Mullins' filly won this year. The record of fillies in this race is a slight concern but she's a Grade 1 winner so she should be up to it. Showed battling qualities when finding a fair bit of the bridle that day which could come in handy here.

Petite Parisienne (maroon)

HARGAM- Beaten when fancied on British debut here but won over course and distance on his second run over hurdles. They were followed by a facile victory at Musselburgh, progressing with each run. He's a beautiful traveller who's never been tried on soft ground, so that would be a worry.

Hargam (left)

BELTOR- The forecasted rain has ushered Robert Stephens' runner into my final three for this. Both of his hurdles starts have been on soft, which he's won with ease and being by Authorized, it's no surprise that he likes a bit of juice in the ground. Tanked to victory in the Adonis at Kempton, the race which really advertised his claims for this. Flat ground sires have excelled in this race in recent runnings too.

Beltor

Top Notch and Pain Au Chocolat will also like the rain and have big chance whilst John Ferguson's Devilment cannot be ignored either.

Race 2- County Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) 2:05

Positive statistics for this include horses being aged 5 or 6 with an Official Rating less than 140.

MAX DYNAMITE (Aged 5, OR-137)- interesting that Ruby Walsh has chosen him over four other Mullins horses. Ran against some of the best flat horses in France although not cutting much ice admittedly, his runaway victory at Thurles on hurdles debut showed that class. His two runs since have been a little disappointing; a battering by the albeit useful Kitten Rock and a fourth place finish from five runners in a Naas Grade 2. He found very little on that occasion but you must thing connections expect better given that Ruby Walsh has chosen him.

SORT IT OUT (Aged 6, OR-134)- His last two runs have been by far his best, with handicap wins at Punchestown and Leopardstown. Clearly heading in the right direction and is worth a chance in this towards the bottom of the weights.

BALTIMORE ROCK (Aged 6, OR-138)- Last year's Imperial Cup winner hasn't been since finishing midfield on his seasonal reappearance in the Greatwood. Will relish the rain that's due to come and a first time tongue-tie makes him of further interest.

Princely Conn is not without a chance but his best form is on drier ground, Quick Jack has obvious chances but is a very short price for such a competitive race and Waxies Dargle is probably the pick of the remainder.

Race 3- Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) 2:40

Yet another tough race to call, a very high quality renewal of this.

CARACCI APACHE- Looked a disinterested horse in summer bumpers but whether it's the softer ground, the step up in trip or having an obstacle in front of him but he's a totally different entity now. Not without his quirks but he finds plenty under pressure. Improved with every run and is well worth his chance in this.

DEFINITLY RED- Another mudlark and another battler who ran away with a bumper here in November. Saw out the three miles well at Haydock last time out and it's promising to see Richard Johnson booked again.

VALUE AT RISK- Caused multiple jaws to drop with his twenty-two length annihilation of a Newbury novice field so it's understanding why many were disappointed when he was beat on Trials Day at 11/10. However, he's well worth another chance here, with the step up in trip almost certain to suit and the rain not being too much of a hindrance to him.

No More Heroes and Martello Tower are the best of the rest but there are so many decent looking sorts in this.

Race 4- CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP (GRADE 1) 3:20

The class horse in this is King George winner Silviniaco Conti and before the drift he's undergone, he was unbackable for me. However, he looks very appealing at 4/1 now but I'll be sticking to my final shortlist of three.

ROAD TO RICHES- Noel Meade's ultra-consistent eight year-old has done nothing but improve this season. Wins in the JN Wine Champion Chase at Down Royal and Lexus Chase at Leopardstown have seen him emerge as a real contender for this. He finds plenty under bold front running tactics and is definitely one to watch.

Road To Riches

CARLINGFORD LOUGH- What a fairytale it would be if AP McCoy could win his final Gold Cup. His mount for this ran a nice race after a long absence in the Lexus and followed that up with a win in the Irish Hennessy under a typical, never say die, McCoy ride. One who will welcome any rain.



LORD WINDERMERE- Last year's winner cannot go unnoticed in this. Unbeaten here and he gets on well with jockey Davy Russell, as shown with his unbelievable ride to win this last year. The rain could well scupper his chances but it looks as though he's been trained for this once again by his very shrewd trainer in Jim Culloty.

Carlingford Lough (white cap) and Lord Windermere (purple)

The one horse who I fear the most is Coneygree. He'll love the rain and has held all before him this season.

Race 5- Foxhunter Chase (Class 2) 4:00

Horses who have had a run under rules within the month (and a bit) are the ones to watch in this.

SALSIFY- The two time former winner of this ran a good race last time out in a Leopardstown Hunter Chase when fourth, bearing in mind that run was after a 409-day absence. Ran well with the leaders for a long way that day and he's therefore likely to be primed for this. The rain will be welcome for him but not for others, which is obviously good for him.

UNIVERSAL SOLIDER- Has course form and ran a decent reappearance after an absence at Ffos Las when a narrow second. 20/1 looks big for a horse that ticks quite a few boxes.

Paint The Clouds could well add another 1 to his form book but the rain will surely diminish his chances whilst On The Fringe never seems to bring his very best to this race and the distance always seems to find him out too.

Race 6- Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) 4:40

KILLULTAGH VIC- looks exceedingly well handicapped based on his smart form. A second behind Tolworth winner L'Ami Serge at Ascot and a third behind Outlander and Albert Bartlett hopeful Martello Tower in a Grade 2 looks smashing form, so his Official Rating of 135 looks very lenient to me. Will appreciate rain too.

MCKINLEY- How many Grade 1 winners carry eight pounds less than top weight in a handicap? Although his Lawlor's Hotel Novice Hurdle win might have been a slight fluke, it would still give him a great chance in this. Star conditional Johnny Burke takes the ride and Ireland have won this twice. Both Gigginstown five year-olds, Sir Des Champs and Don Poli. Can McKinley make it a third?

NOBLE ENDEAVOR- Won a decent race at Punchestown last time out, winning decisively. 20/1 looks a little big.

Roi Des Francs has a chance too for Gigginstown but he's short enough at 4/1.

Race 7- Grand Annual Handicap Chase (Grade 3) 5:15

The Festival concludes with the Grand Annual, which is name in honour of the great AP McCoy this year.

BLOOD COTIL- Ran decent races against smart novice chasers such as Sizing Granite and RSA third Wounder Warrior and whilst he isn't quite in their company, he looks to have found a nice opportunity in this off a fair weight. Sluiced up last time out, big chance.

TURN OVER SIVOLA-  A consistent sort who hasn't been disgraced this season. Looks like he could run a nice race off a decent weight. 28/1 big.

GRUMETI- Former Grade 1 winner who clearly didn't like the 2 mile 4 furlong trip at Sandown last time out. First time blinkers, back to 2 miles at a course he's got winning form at makes him a horse who could run a stormer, providing he can leave his no-show in the Scilly Isles behind him.


NAP- SALSIFY
NB- BLOOD COTIL
L15- MAX DYNAMITE
L15- KIlLLULTAGH VIC

Hope everybody has a great last day at Cheltenham

Happy Cheltenham Punting!

Cheltenham- Day Three

Tuesday's dismal display was long forgotten as the blog fired in three winners on Day Two, courtesy of Windsor Park and Lord Davy Russell, Qualando at generous odds of 25/1 and of course, Dodging Bullets, who showed why I've been loyal to him for most of the season. Three Grade 1 wins this season, topped off by a great win in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, putting Sire De Grugy firmly in his place. Sprinter Sacre clearly wasn't his former invincible self and it looks as though he probably never will be. Somersby and Special Tiara both ran stormers and are a massive credit to connections.

Anyway, we move onto Day Three, where there's only the six races to look at...

Race 1- JLT Novices' Chase (Grade 1) 1:30

This promises to be one of the races of the week. We hark back to Tuesday with another Walsh/Mullins/Ricci favourite, courtesy of Vautour. Last year's Supreme winner has looked a smart chaser thus far, the only blip in his copybook being a lacklustre display at Leopardstown on bottomless ground over Christmas. However, I'm not going to back him at that price.

PTIT ZIG- Been quite the revelation since tackling fences, winning his first four chase starts. His first defeat came with a fall in the Ascot Chase. However, before that, he looked a smart individual. A usually nifty jumper, shown in his very easy victory here over Champagne West; if he gets into a nice rhythm, he could well give Vautour a lot to think about and continue Paul Nicholls' brilliant Festival. Good ground would be a slight concern though.

Ptit Zig

APACHE STRONGHOLD- Despite being beaten by Vautour over hurdles, I don't think he can be too easily discredited here. He reverse form with Valseur Lido last time out and before that, was a three length second behind RSA winner Don Poli. Given a patient ride by Paul Carberry in the Flogas and could have a chance again under similar tactics.

Apache Stronghold

Valseur Lido also runs in this; he's a very smart performer but he ideally needs the heavens to open to be seen at his best.

Race 2- Pertemps Network Final (Listed Handicap Hurdle) 2:05

A very hard race to whittle down to a final three but I managed in the end...

DAWALAN- Nicky Henderson seems to have worked the oracle with this once enigmatic horse. A step up in trip has definitely seen him to best effect and has looked a force to be reckoned with this year; very impressive for a horse who usually struggled to get his head in front. He's been a grand servant to me this year on the betting front and is well worth his place in this field.

JOIN THE CLAN- His relationship with ten-pound claimer Patrick Cowley has seen him win his last two races. He'll stay all day but the ground is a worry. However, Jonjo O'Neill has ran smart sorts in this previously, including RSA winner and Gold Cup hopeful Holywell, Irish National winner Shutthefrontdoor and Gold Cup winner Synchronised. Although they didn't all win this, it shows that Jonjo is inclined to run smart horses in this.

RUN RUCTIONS RUN- Been knocking on the door plenty of times this season without success. They include placed performances in races of this nature. Paul Carberry a very interesting booking.

Race 3- Ryanair Chase (Grade 1) 2:40

A fairly average renewal of this race. Don Cossack has excelled in small field this season but this is a completely different kettle of fish. Nicky Henderson's poor chase form has to be a worry regarding Ma Filleule's chances whilst Balder Succes' Cheltenham form of FUFU has to be a concern.

JOHNS SPIRIT- A horse who excels at Cheltenham, albeit in handicaps. However, his sixth place in the King George was better than the bare form suggests; he travelled well for a long way that day. The step back to 2 miles 5 furlongs will be right up his street on ground he will relish.

John's Spirit

WISHFULL THINKING- Another horse who will benefit from the drop down in trip and another who will love the good ground. A dual Grade 2 winner this season and the top rated in the field; his course form isn't all that bad either (he knows how to win here). 33/1 is an outstanding price.

Wishfull Thinking

Race 4- WORLD HURDLE (GRADE 1) 3:20

Considering this is a Championship race, it really is a riddle wrapped in an enigma shrouded in a mystery. It looks devoid of a true star, so it really is up for grabs.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL- He's been a revelation this season, with two Grade 1 wins in Ireland. Another horse who's been good to me so it would be stupid to ignore him now. He's got a great attitude and should be capable of putting in another bold showing here.

Lieutenant Colonel

UN TEMPS POUR TOUT- For me, he was the eye-catcher of the Cleeve Hurdle. He was the only one of the front three that hadn't had a recent run, so is likely to be primed for this. Saphir Du Rheu shouldn't be half his price in my opinion whilst Reve De Sivola hasn't got his ground, is unlikely to get an easy lead and it's not being run in the winter. Connections are bullish about his chances for this too.

Un Temps Pour Tout

MONKSLAND- Ran a superb race after a 730-day absence behind Lieutenant Colonel and Jetson in Leopardstown's Christmas Hurdle, following that up with a narrow defeat behind Dedigout. Could well be the sort who's had his season geared towards this race and with Paul Carberry in the saddle, expect patient tactics and a late pounce.

Monksland

Race 5- Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate (Grade 3 Handicap Chase) 4:00

Horses with an Official Rating of 140 or less have dominated this in recent years.

MONETAIRE (OR 138)- A classic Pipe horse in this race, for the same owner that won it with Ballynagour (2014) and Salut Flo (2012). A lightly raced sort, like the two horses listed, he could be well treated in this. Will need to improve his jumping and good ground a concern, but if these matter little, he'll take all the beating here.

BALLY LEGEND (OR 139)- Last year's BetBright Chase winner who know only carries a pound more than that day. Course form too, 33/1 looks generous.

FILBERT (OR 138)- First time cheekpieces worked well at Wincanton last time out. Richard Johnson will be looking to get everything out of him like he did then. 33/1 looks big again.

Race 6- Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (Class 2) 4:40

GOLD BULLET- Well beaten on his reappearance after a 421-day absence but ran a far more promising race when third at Fairyhouse last time out. Likely to be tuned up nicely for this after those two runs and with talented amateur Derek O'Connor taking the ride, he certainly has a big chance.

TAP NIGHT- Winless for over two years now but his recent run here was promising. He was third then, aided by a massive tumble down the weights. Delivered too late then, his run was eye-catching then. Unseated in the BetBright last time out so no idea what he might have done then. Has a five pound claimer on board meaning he carries five pounds less than he ever has done in a handicap. If he's still got some of his ability, he's well handicapped enough to play a big part here.

GOLD BULLET- NAP
LIEUTENANT COLONEL- NB
DAWALAN- L15
MONETAIRE- L15

Have a wonderful Day 3 and...

Happy Cheltenham Punting!

Cheltenham- Day Two

Day One drew a blank for myself but with short favourites going in left right and centre, I'm willing to overlook it. Just got to keep doing what your doing, don't change anything and stick to your convictions. That's the best advice I can give to myself. Day Two is another day and WE GO AGAIN...

Race 1- Neptune Investment Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) 1:30

NICHOLS CANYON- a horse who I've been very fond of this season. A first Grade 1 win in the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse was followed by a comprehensive win in the Deloitte at Leopardstown. Front running tactics were used to good effect that day, as he battled on well to fend off all challengers. His flat breeding is a slight worry and being by Authorized, good ground would be a little alarming. But he's done little wrong this year bar unseating Ruby in the Future Champions at Leopardstown and should put in another bold show here.

WINDSOR PARK- he was second behind Nichols Canyon in the Deloitte and was beaten by Outlander before that. They also re-oppose today but this Galileo gelding could reverse the form. He'll love the ground and looked to need a little extra distance when trailing home behind Nichols Canyon last time out. Will need to brush up on his jumping but having Davy Russell in the saddle at Cheltenham is a big plus; he rides the course so well and always gets a winner at the Festival. This may be one of many this year.

Ordo Ab Chao could be the main danger but may want softer ground. Seven year olds have a poor record in this so Parlour Games and Outlander could be up against it.

Nichols Canyon (right) and Windsor Park (purple).

Race 2- RSA Chase (Grade 1) 2:05

There's no avoiding the glaring stat for this race. The last EIGHT winners of this race have been seven year old, Irish breds. Apache Jack and The Ould Lad look out of their depth whilst If In Doubt is interesting but will have to brush up on his jumping to play a part here. May also want softer ground.

KINGS PALACE- Heralded by many as a horse undeserving of his short price but I disagree. Won all three chase starts with relative ease, including two here at Prestbury Park. Highly thought of by connections, his jumping is usually on point, if not for the odd guessy leap. Big chance if on his 'A' game.

SOUTHFIELD THEATRE- Been campaigned fairly quietly for this, with wins in small fields at local tracks Wincanton and Exeter. Paul Nicholls is said to be rather bullish about his chances and he might have good reason to be. Never been outside of the first four at the course, the worst run of five being a four-length fourth behind The New One. Now that's not bad at all. Expect a big run.

Race 3- Coral Cup (Grade 3 Handicap Hurdle) 2:40

Often seen as one of the real "minefield" races of the week, this year's renewal is certainly no exception. Twenty-six runners whittled down to three.

LAC FONTANA- a former Grade 1 winner in a handicap, he hasn't really sparkled this season. However, his three wins at the course make him one to respect massively, as this is a race where the last five winners have all finished in the top four at Cheltenham previously. If he's back to his best and on a going day, he should run a good race.

MARINERO- Two aspects make him of interest in this. Firstly, his weight. Shane Shortall's five pound claim means he only has to carry 10-1, the lowest weight by five pounds. Secondly, his six-and-three-quarter length defeat behind the Supreme winner Douvan looks scintillating following Tuesday's opener. Sizing John got beat by twelve lengths in his first meeting with Douvan; he was third behind Rich Ricci's classy horse in the Supreme. That gives extra kudos to Marinero's chances.

PLINTH- won two races in November, then was well beaten by Hurricane Fly, Jezki and Arctic Fire in two G1 races at Leopardstown. Clearly outclassed, could be one to keep an eye on in handicap company for Aidan O'Brien. And listen, you obviously wouldn't put anything past the Master of Ballydoyle.

Race 4- QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE (Grade 1) 3:20

Two Champions vs Two Pretenders

Sire De Grugy won a weak renewal of this race last year and may find too much on his plate this time around with the horses he's up against. Sprinter Sacre ran a decent reappearance but cannot be backed as favourite for me, given we don't really know if he'll be back to his imperious best.

So I'm going for the pretenders to the crown...

DODGING BULLETS- been grand to me this season with Tingle Creek and Clarence House wins. Clearly the form horse going into the race, the worries are his Cheltenham form and his spring form. Neither are great, in fact they're poor. But, if he can leave those hoodoos behind him, he's the one to beat here.

Dodging Bullets

CHAMPAGNE FEVER- no complaints with this horse's Cheltenham form. Wins in the Bumper and Supreme were followed by a shock second in the Arkle last year (I've still no idea how he lost it to this day). Been campaigned to get the Gold Cup trip this season but a possible non-staying performance in the King George brought this two mile race into the equation. A bold, front runner who's jumping is his forte (despite falling at the last when challenging two starts ago). Big player if getting things his own way.

NON RUNNER

Champagne Fever (right)

Revised selection- MR MOLE

Paul Nicholls seems to finally be getting the best out of this recalcitrant horse. Won the Game Spirit well last time out despite Sire De Grugy and Uxizandre both failing to complete. However, he's looked a completely different horse this season and is well worth is chance in this.  

A very interesting race, that's for sure.

Race 5- Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (Class 2) 4:00

I like to back horses with decent course experience in this; it's nice to know that your horse can cope with the quirky features this unique track has to offer.

SIRE COLLONGES- Winner over C&D in December 2013. Paul Nicholls fancies this horse a fair bit. Will love the ground and evidently stays. Knows his way around the course, big chance.

DUKE OF LUCCA- Fourth in this race last year. Richard Johnson claims this could be his ride of the week. Another who likes good ground.

QUANTITATIVEEASING- Second over C&D in December 2014. Enda Bolger is the master of races in this sphere and is likely to have him primed for this. No win since 2011 is a worry but he could be capable of reversing the form with Any Currency, despite the twelve length gap. Any Currency was due a win of that type and had it; that might have been his day in the sun after many crossbar attempts.

Race 6- Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) 4:40

Most past winners of this have had Official Rating's of 130 or less, so it should pay to look at horses towards the foot of the weights. There aren't many horses who fit that criterion; Sebastian Beach and Beatabout The Bush and The Wallace Line may not be good enough.

They'd also had their last run within forty days of the race.

SOURIYAN- (OR-133... 130 with 3 pound claim). Gave the fairly capable pair of Sebastian Beach (re-opposes) and Skylander a comprehensive beating at Exeter before being beaten by a narrow margin in heavy ground at Ffos Las. Probably wasn't suited by the ground, much better proposition with the going here.

HOSTILE FIRE- (OR 131). Representing the connections that won this with Flaxen Flare two years ago, a first time tongue-tie brought with it a maiden success over hurdle last time out. Potentially well treated off that weight, a big plus.

QUALANDO- (OR 131). Ran two nice races in England thus far, his debut on these shores being a second behind the useful Herbert Park and his following run being a comfortable enough win. He looks to be progressing nicely and is another who looks well treated off his mark. Good ground a worry but if he copes, he'll be a player.

Zarib and Bouvreuil are two more that cannot be ignored.

Race 7- Champion Bumper (Grade 1) 5:20

This was a hard race to get down to three. Interesting little stat that only one French bred horse has won this race this millennium, the Philip Hobbs trained Cheltenian. French bred horses, trained in Ireland, have a poor record in this. Therefore, I was able to take Bordini and Au Quart De Tour out of my provisional list.

PYLONTHEPRESSURE- Won his two starts for Willie Mullins with consummate ease, much to his trainer's apparent surprise. Improving all the time they claim, Rich Ricci believing he's now his main hope in this. 

NON RUNNER

STONE HARD- Labelled as a horse for the future but his bumper form isn't all that shabby. Also two from two for Willie Mullins and also couldn't have done it much easier. Good ground an unknown but one to respect.

JETSTREAM JACK- Gordon Elliot is said to think a fair bit of him. Won his sole Rules start fairly nicely on New Years Day, the second on that occasion has won nicely since.

Revised selection- BELSHILL

Interesting that Ruby Walsh have chosen to ride him, given that he has ridden Wylie owned in the last two outings, both of which were Willie Mullins' best finisher in those years (2013- won with Briar Hill, 2014- second with Shaneshill). Looks a tough horse, so hopefully won't shirk away from a battle up the hill. Beaten by Vigil last time out but I fancy him to reverse the form here; horses that have run in this race don't tend to do will at the second attempt and Vigil tries to do this.

DODGING BULLETS- NAP

NICHOLS CANYON- NB

SIRE COLLONGES- L15

LAC FONTANA- L15

Hope everybody has a smashing Day 2 at Cheltenham and, of course...

Happy Cheltenham Punting!

Cheltenham- Day One

So, here we are. The countdown clocks hit zero. At 1:30, on Tuesday afternoon, the hype, the heated debate and the huge weights of expectation all cease, as the Cheltenham roar kicks off four days of racing heaven. Selections for all seven races on Day One here, so without further ado...

Race 1- Supreme Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) 1:30

JOLLYALLAN- come along nicely this season. Hasn't run a bad race thus far and isn't adverse to getting into a battle. His narrow second behind Garde La Victoire is rock solid; in fact I think it's some of the best form on offer. AP McCoy doing the steering on what is his last Cheltenham Festival (have you heard he's retiring) which he could kick off with a winner.

Jollyallan

SHANESHILL- Before Vautour's runaway victory in last year's renewal, the three winners before that all ran in the Champion Bumper from the year previous. He was second in that, behind Silver Concorde and has entered proceedings into this race fairly quietly. A disappointment when beaten at 4/9 by No More Heroes over 2 and-a-half miles, connections will be hoping the drop in trip by half a mile will eke out a little more improvement in him. The ground won't inconvenience him and another contender who won't shirk away from a battle.

Shaneshill

As for the favourites, both Douvan and L'Ami Serge have never been truly tested, always winning on the bridle. The former could well be Vautour mark II but cannot be backed at half the price his stablemate was whilst the latter has never tried good ground in this country so that would be a worry.

Race 2- Arkle Novices' Chase (Grade 1) 2:05

VIBRATO VALTAT- Once an enigmatic horse but Nicholls seems to have discovered the tactics that see him at his best. If he's waited with, he could be produced late; to good effect if things fall apart in front. A thrice Graded winner this season, ignore him completely at your peril.

Vibrato Valtat

Obviously, the favourite for this is the almighty Un De Sceaux. In all honesty, he's the most likely winner but I cannot have him at odds on. The only thing that could do for him is his exuberant jumping out in front may lead to errors that could result in him deposing of Ruby Walsh, who sure is in for one rollercoaster ride.

Race 3- Handicap Chase (Grade 3) 2:40

NED STARK- Alan King's contender has a massive chance in this. He looks nicely weighted, his form looks strong and his only defeat this season came behind smart pair Ptit Zig and Champagne West at Cheltenham. He ran well with that pair for a long way then, running a better race than the form suggests. He's a scopey sort who should see out the trip nicely. The only worry is that he might appreciate some more cut in the ground. However, if he copes with the surface, he's the one to beat.

Ned Stark (orange)

WHAT A WARRIOR- Loves good ground, forget about his no-show in the Hennessy. Could outrun his odds at 33/1.

Race 4- THE CHAMPION HURDLE (Grade 1) 3:20

Possibly the biggest talking race of the whole week. Many questions to be answered...

1) Is Faugheen good enough? Most likely, yes. Should take all the beating but it's the strongest race he's ran in and is no price for me.
2) Would The New One have won last year if for no interference? No, not for me.
3) Should The New One be favourite? No, he's had a tough season for me and I see no reason why he should reverse the form from last year with Jezki.
4) Can Jezki win it again? Yes. His season was geared towards this last year and it looks to be a similar story this time around. He's been in Hurricane Fly's wake all season but Jessica Harrington will have him primed for this and can retain his title.
5) Does Hurricane Fly struggle at Cheltenham? Despite being a twice Champion hurdle winner, I would say yes. He often hits a flat spot and has been found to find little up the hill (i.e. last year). However, his price makes him backable for me. He seems to be better than ever at Leopardstown this year and IF he can run the race of his life, the grand old timer could give the younger guns a proper fright. May need some rain though that might not come.
6) Can anything outside the Top 4 win? Although the likes of Arctic Fire, Kitten Rock and Vaniteux demand respect, they'll have to perform miracle to pass the post first.

Therefore... JEZKI could well prove that last year was no Cheltenham fluke whilst HURRICANE FLY cannot be overlooked chasing his third title.

Two warriors in battle- Jezki (white cap) and Hurricane Fly (blue)

Race 5- Mares' Hurdle (Grade 1) 4:00

This race revolves around Annie Power. Will take all the beating. Don't do odds on but, in my opinion, she looked like she might need the run. But if she's even 70%, she should give these a good walloping. Three alternatives at nice prices though...

POLLY PEACHUM- Stormed home in a mares handicap here in April. Appreciates good ground, fell when tired on bottomless ground last time out. Had a bit of a break since, if she's over that then she's got a squeak in this.

L'UNIQUE- Third in this last year and a former Grade 1 winner. Another who will relish the good ground and could have a say if she puts everything together.

THE PIRATE'S QUEEN- Denis O'Regan's patient tactics have been put to good use on another Alan King entrant this season. Has looked classy and her form is relatively strong. The hill is a worry but she has the class to not be discounted entirely.

Glen's Melody, Carole's Spirit and Bitofapuzzle all have chances but probably want softer ground.

Race 6- National Hunt Chase- "The Four Miler" (Listed) 4:40

SEGO SUCCESS- Alan King knows what it takes to win this, winning it in 2008 with Old Benny and last year with Midnight Prayer. This horse has improved at a rate of knots thus far this season and looks the sort that will stay until sunset. Midnight Prayer ran his last race at Warwick before this last year, Sego Success has done the same.

Sego Success

VERY WOOD- Michael O'Leary threw a spanner into my works by entering last years Albert Bartlett win in this as opposed to the RSA at the last minute. Another who should stay all day, he looked to return to his very best again when winning a Grade 2 at Navan last time out, after appearing lost when pulling up in his two starts previous. Nina Carberry is a top pilot and class could well prevail- a Grade 1 winner remember.

Very Wood

Vivaldi Collonges has a chance too but his Cheltenham runs have to be a slight worry. Never quite performed with much zeal here (the day he was second, he was favourite and appeared to be the winner but seemed to find little up the hill.)

Race 7- Novices' Handicap Chase (Listed) 5:15

HORIZONTAL SPEED- Won nicely at Wetherby last time out after competing against superior horses beforehand, including World Hurdle hopeful Saphir Du Rheu. Could hardly go a day without backing a Richard Johnson horse either...

GENEROUS RANSOM- plenty of these have similar form lines but out of them all, I've opted for Nick Gifford's runner. Won over course and distance last time out, doing so nicely. Has a good chance of following that up.


To summarise

NED STARK- NAP
JEZKI- NB
JOLLYALLAN- L15
SEGO SUCCESS- L15


Hope everybody has a good first day at Cheltenham

Happy Cheltenham Punting!

Cheltenham: That Winning Feeling

On what is the final day before the start of the greatest show on turf, the Cheltenham Festival, I thought I'd base my preview on that one thing we all long for on the betting front- a winner. Some are good, some are great and some are just unequivocally spine-tingling. But any winner at Cheltenham is special and something that should be savoured like gold dust.

Every winner I have had has stayed in my memory forever. From my first ever Festival winner in 2011, courtesy of Sizing Australia in the Cross Country, to my first Championship race win with Solwhit's World Hurdle.

The winners that win in tight finishes are always sweet. First Lieutenant's nail biting finish in the 2011 Neptune when beating the future Champion Hurdle winner Rock On Ruby and Balthazar King's Cross Country success last year are fine examples of this.

Equally, the victories where your horse sluices up are simply a joy to behold. Cue Card's front running display in the Ryanair two years ago was poetry in motion.

This is not a gloatfest by any means; some winners are cherished because you need them so badly. My only winner of 2012's Festival was Sir Des Champs in the Jewson, which is obviously now known as the JLT.

Sir Des Champs and Davy Russell after his win in 2012.

All the days, weeks and months stewing over ante-post bets, the countless minutes spent watching weather forecasts to monitor ground conditions, the endless preview nights and the Twitter chatter. It all comes down to THAT RACE. If your horse crosses the line in first place, the outpouring of emotion is palpable. The tension, angst, excitement that is pent up inside you is released. Until the next race this...

So whether you're a fist pumper, air puncher, hi-fiver, hand waver, knee slider, shape thrower, celebratory singer, manic screamer or uncontrollable weeper OR all of the above, just make sure you cherish every winner you have.

Here's hoping you have many winners this week and, in the process, form eternal bonds with those horses that cannot be broken.

Happy Cheltenham Punting!

THE DOUR'S OPEN FOR ANOTHER PIPE WIN

It's hardly surprising that the Cheltenham Festival is all people can talk about, given it is only three days away. But there's still some quality racing taking place today, as Sandown, Wolverhampton and Meydan provide an exciting prelude to the four days of equine heaven that await us.

The main race of the day is Sandown's Imperial Cup (3:10), which has been won three times by David Pipe in recent years. Two of those winners were four year olds, Ashkazar and Gaspara and the unbeaten BIDOUREY will be hoping to add to that list. Although he hasn't beaten a great deal in his races thus far, he couldn't have done it much easier. He won with aplomb over course and distance in his most recent outing, prevailing by fifteen lengths. There's a slight worry that there isn't  that much cut in the ground today but if he can cope with it, he seems to be progressing enough to be able to take this.

Bidourey (foreground)

This race has dominated by horses off fairly low weights in recent years, with the last six winners all carrying less than eleven stone and an Official Rating of 130 or less. Out of the entries at the bottom of the card, John Ferguson's ZIP TOP stood out most. He could be deemed a lucky winner at Southwell last time out when looking resigned for second place were it not for the likely winner falling two out. The most interesting this about him today is that AP McCoy is doing 10-5 to ride him. That is awfully low for him and it would suggest that he thinks this horse, which he has won on twice before, has another big chance today.

Zip Top (right)