Sunday 22 December 2019

Southwell races

The bad weather did little to dampen the spirits of the punters however it did result in racing being cancelled after the fourth race. But the majority of the racing was not anything particularly special.

The 2:45 had Azor Ahai with a slight lead to the chasing Artois and Azzeccagarbugli. There were many tracking horses including Directory, Tukhoom, Glory Of Paris and Angel Palanas. Samphire Coast and Makambe were towards the rear. Four furlongs out and Azor Ahai  lost the lead to Angel Palanas. Three furlongs out is where the positions in the field were under the most change. Headway was made by Makambe, Directory, Tukhoom and Glory Of Paris. Samphire Coast and Angel Palanas were pushed along. At two furlong out Directory was ridden to lead from Angel Palanas despite the effort made by Tukhoom. Makambe and Samphire Coast needed to be ridden along. In the final furlong Directory was driven out as was Tukhoom. Makambe and Samphire Coast merely kept on whilst the rest of the field weakened. Yet Directory was keeping on well not being caught by Tukhoom who didn't make any impression towards the finish. First was Directory by 1 1/4 lengths, second was Tukhoom by 1 1/2 lengths and third was Makambe by a short head.

In 3:20 there was no surprises with the outcome. Hareem Queen had a little lead, to the close up Moonraker, Foolaad and Samovar. There was a split between centre and stands' side rail. Moon Trouble chased the leaders but Tawny Port was held up. Two furlongs out had a change of pace, many being ridden along including Moon Trouble, Moonraker, Fooland and Samovar. Although headway was made by Tawny Port, Hareem Queen kept the lead. At one furlong out Tawny Port and Hareem Queen were ridden along. Samovar, Moonraker and Fooland were driven out. Moon Trouble quickly weakened. Entering the final furlong Hareem Queen was headed by Tawny Port. He went to win with ease by 1/2 length. Moonraker and Samovar were only keeping on at the same pace. The winner was Tawny Port, second was Hareem Queen by 1 1/2 lengths and third Samovar by 1/2 length.

This is my final blog for the year, hopefully next year will be filled with even more racing!

Thursday 12 September 2019

Carlisle races

The early change in ground had the ground riding a bit dead. There was some interesting outcomes of the day including the 25/1 winner in the first race. The horse to watch from the card was Avenue of Stars, who once had room had a lot of pace. It was clearly a day that if a horse was not prominent they would not win.

The fifth race had Strawman making all, chased by Bentley Wood, Lady Latte and Stag Horn. However Roman's Empress, Copperlight, Three Dragons and Notation were held up. At two furlongs out the whole field drifted towards the centre especially Strawman. Some of the field were pushed along including Stag Horn, Tree Dragons and Lady Latte while Notation made headway. One furlong out Bentley Wood was making effort to be competitive but the lead had not been disrupted from Strawman. Merely keeping on was Stag Horn, Notation and Black Star Dancing. In the final furlong there was no catching Strawman with Bentley Wood being one paced and Stag Horn couldn't reach the front. First Strawman by 1 1/2 length, second Bentley Wood by 6 lengths, third Stag Horn by a short head.

In the 4:30 Harvey Dent led followed by Alotabottle, Redarna, Nubough and Fuente. But Mikmak and Global Gift were held up, Rousayan was slowly into stride. Nubough, Redarna, Feunte and Global Gift were being ridden at two furlongs out. With one furlong to go Alotabottle took the lead heading Harvey Dent at the same time Global Gift attempted to chase. There was by this point a large gap between these three and the rest of the field. Yet in the final furlong Alotabottle drew clear whilst Global Gift made no impression. The winner was Alotabottle by 2 3/4 lengths, second Harvey Dent by 2 1/4 lengths and third Global Gift by 1/2 length.

I'm  not sure when my next blog will be due to moving this will effect my racing. Follow my twitter feed to keep up dated!

Monday 9 September 2019

York Races

York races family fun day had something for people of all ages. With various activities from paw patrol to face paint and games and so much more. The pony races saw the stars of the future take to the stage. The races provided a competitive hard to call card. Platform Nineteen continues its winning streak having its four timer.

The first race had four horses in a row with a slight lead to Clan Royale, tracked by Alben Spirit, No Mercy, Ishvara and Lady Nectar. Unifier dwelt towards the rear and Leapers Wood had a tricky start before chasing the leaders. Halfway along the race headway was made by Unifier but  Willing To Please began to chase the leaders. With two furlongs to go Alben Spirit moved up the field with Sam's Call, Ishvara and Leapers Wood being ridden out. One furlong out Clan Royale was leading comfortably with Unifier beginning to challenge. Alben Spirit was close too. Unfortunately No Mercy's jockey Ben Curtis lost his whip effecting his running going into the final furlong. The rest of the field in the closing stages merely kept on whilst despite drifting Clan Royale held on well. Unifier just couldn't catch the leader. First was Clan Royale by a neck to second Unifier by 2 lengths. Third was Alben Spirit. The second was well worth an each way bet coming in at 66/1!

In the 2:55 Dakota Gold made the running, tracked by Danzeno, Yolo Again, Marnie James and Perfection. Rock On Baileys was towards the rear and Princes Des Sables raced wide on the stands rail. Marnie James and Rock On Baileys moved towards the front at two furlongs out as Perfection made an effort. But some of the field weakened. At one furlong out Dakota Gold was driven along but it was clear from here he would not be caught. Danzeno did try to challenge as did Marnie James. But eventually Perfection, Marnie James and Danzeo kept on at the same pace. The winner was Dakota Gold by 1 3/4 lengths to Danzeno by 1 3/4 lengths and third Marnie James by 3/4 lengths.



Tuesday 27 August 2019

Southwell races

The glorious weather had the Nottinghamshire Sports Day theme very busy and the racecourse was full of people of all ages. There was fun for all the family. The eye catcher of the race meeting was Blowing Dixie. He made the 1m 4f look easy even in the heat. The two pony races before the first race, one of the jockeys Edward Vaughan is clearly destined to become an apprentice jockey and then go further.

The 3:00 had the horses very close together throughout. It was hard to see much separating Maystar, Augustus Caesar, Royal Context and Strong Power. Close up was One Bite and Order Of Merritt. There was the slightest lead to Maystar. Royal Context and Abbaleka made headway at two furlongs out while One Bite was ridden along. At one furlong to go  Augustus Caesar, Royal Context and Maystar were pushed along.  In the final furlong Maystar was narrowly headed by Augustus Caesar but Strong Power and Royal Context kept on at the same pace. However Maystar rallied again to take the lead in the closing stages. Augustus Caesar had no more to give. First Maystar by 3/4 lengths, second Augustus Caesar by a neck and third Strong Power by 1 1/2 lengths.

The fourth race had Warrior's Valley leading, tracked by Dark Shot,  Zylan, Samovar, Airglow and Ebitda. Fantasy Keeper and Crosse Fire were not far off the pace. Over two furlongs Warrior's Valley and Airglow needed to be ridden along but the dwelling Lomu made headway. At one furlong out Crosse Fire was ridden to lead with Fantasy Keeper challenging. Dark Shot was ridden at this point as was Warrior's Valley. Within the final furlong Lomu and Airglow had no more to give like most of the field. Warrior's Valley weakened, Dark Shot  and Fantasy Keeper were single paced. Unlike Crosse Fire who kept on strongly. The winner was Crosse Fire by 1 1/2 lengths, giving Scott Dixon a double on the day. Second was Fantasy Keeper by 1 3/4 lengths, third was Dark Shot by 1/2 length.




Wednesday 21 August 2019

Catterick Races

The momentary power cut did not inhibit racing as power was reconnected before the first race. With a few horses misbehaving and tack breaking two jockeys were off, Phil Dennis (who was fine) and Ben Robinson (who went to hospital). I hope it's nothing too serious. A very in-form trainer is Tim Easterby and his horses need to be watched having a treble on the card and Duran Fentiman having a double. Two horses to watch are Kodimoor and Ahorsewithnoname.

The second race had Infinite Grace lead, closely followed by Exclusively, Good Night Mr Tom and Knightcap. Bob's Oss and Woven Quality were not that far off the pace. In the rear were Gold Venture and She's Easyontheeye. Two furlongs out headway was made by Knightcap, Good Night Mr Tom began to be compete for the lead from Exclusively. Bob's Oss, Woven Quality and Infinite Grace were all ridden along. At one furlong out Knightcap was ridden to lead. Bob's Oss and Good Night Mr Tom fought towards the finish both driven hard. But Exclusively, Woven Quality and Infinite Grace were weakening slowly. Knightcap went well clear of the rest of the field winning by 3 1/4 lengths while Bob's Oss narrowly went in front by 3/4 lengths for second. Third was Good Night Mr Tom by a short head.

The 3:00 Super Florence led with Santafiora, Spirit Of Zebedee, Night Law and Carlovian all tracking. Midfield were Mr Greenlight, Point of Woods and B Fifty Two was towards the back. At the half way marker the lead was taken over by Night Law. At two furlong to go there was movement up the field by many including B Fifty Two, Mr Greenlight, Santafiora and Spirit Of Zebedee. Carlovian was being pushed along. One furlong out Night Law was ahead. Spirit Of Zebedee, B Fifty Two and Mr Greenlight chased. Some were one paced including Santafiora and Point Of Woods. The closing stages made it clear that there would be no catching of Night Law by 3/4 length, second B Fifty Two by 1 3/4 length and third Spirit Of Zebedee by a neck.

I'm also looking forward to the Ebor meeting, let's see what Enable and others can bring!


Saturday 10 August 2019

Thirsk races

The change in ground meant that there were a few horses withdrawn but this did not put a dampener on the family fun day. There was a variety of activities including animal petting, donkey rides and face painting. There additionally was a storm which resulted in a flag start. Also there was some shocks with the first race being won by a 22/1 outsider, Lady Erimus.

The 2:20 had Baltic State leading, chased by Balancing Act, Araifjan and Kilham. Midfield was Sendacard. Many of the field dwelt. The leader was uncontested until two furlongs out, Balancing Act, Music Therapist, Kilham and Sendacard were pushed along. In the final stages Balancing Act took the lead, there was however a battle between Sendacard and Baltic State for second position. Arafjan, Music Therapist and Kilham all had no more to give, plodding slightly. Balancing Act kept on well to win by 3/4 length, second Sendacard by 1 length, third was Baltic State by 2 lengths.

The fifth race had Three Saints Bay in the lead, chased by Raydiance with The Broghie Man and Dan's Dream in midfield. The backmarker was Remarkable. Raydiance was being ridden along at three furlongs out. With two furlongs to go Dan's Dream was pushed up the field while Three Saints Bay, Remarkable and The Broghie Man were all ridden. At one furlong out Dan's Dream challenged the leader Three Saints Bay. Raydiance became one paced and merely kept on. Remarkable and The Broghie Man made no impact on the race. Three Saints Bay driften towards the rail side, this couldn't even stop him going on well to win. Dan's Dream had no more to give. First was Three Saints Bay by 1 1/4 lengths, second Dan's Dream by 1 3/4 lengths and third was Raydiance.

I'm unsure as to when my next blog will be follow my twitter to find out!

Friday 2 August 2019

Nottingham Races

There was a change in going from soft to heavy in places, therefore a few horses were withdrawn. Richard Kingscote had a quick fire double winning the first and second race. It clearly was a day for the favourites winning 5 out of the 7 races. A horse to watch for the future is Platform Nineteen as it won impressively.

The 3:25 had Mr Strutter lead for one furlong before a strong pace was set by Loose Chippings. Classic Charm was soon prominent, Carey Street, Showboating and Hitman were held up. Bruyere, Dawn Breaking and Bristol Missile were slowly away. At one stage Loose Chippings went 12 lengths clear and he was stretching the field. Three furlongs out Bruyere made headway but Loose Chippings had been headed and Vixen Weakened. Classic Charm took the lead from Loose Chippings. At two furlongs out Carey Street was outpaced, others such as Showboating and Dawn Breaking were ridden along. Mr Strutter chased Classic Charm. One furlong out Classic Charm had gone well clear yet Bruyere, Mr Strutter and Showboating were chasing. Most of the other field weakened. In the final stages there was no catching Classic Charm. With not enough from Bruyere, Showboating and Carey Street to compete. First was Classic Charm by 7 lengths, second was Bruyere by 2 lengths, third was Carey Street by 3/4 length.

The sixth race had Kodiac Express withdrawn at the start because of poor behaviour. Show Palace led, Choosey chased and Gnaad didn't run straight but eventually chased. Requited was slowly into stride. This lead was taken by Requited over three furlongs out, this was not long lasting as the pace was picked up again by Show Palace with one furlong to go. Gnaad ran well and continued chasing. Choosey was never really involved dropping further back. Despite some wandering Show Palace won by 1/2 length to second Gnaad by 5 lengths, third Requited by 3 1/2 lengths.

Good luck to all the smaller trainers going for glory at Glorious Goodwood! Especially Declan Carroll who came so close with the same horse last year.

Redcar races

The rainy weather allowed the ground to be somewhat softened despite the lack of change in the going, it clearly wasn't good, good to firm  in places. There was a double for jockey Jack Mitchell and trainer Roger Varian also had a double. It also saw the first winner for Ben Robinson since losing his claim.

The first race was close with many in the running. Macho Time was the lead narrowly to Dutch Decoy. Tracking was Cruising, Sushi Power, Teasel's Rock and The Mystery Wizard. My Dandy Doc and Inductive were held up. At two furlongs out Dutch Decoy was given a shake whilst Cold Light Of Day, Sushi Power, The Mystery Wizard and Proclaimer were ridden along. With one furlong to go Macho Time edged left but Cruising went to challenge. Headway was made by My Dandy Doc, many at this stage dropped away. In the closing stages of the race Macho Time and My Dandy Doc kept on well, Cruising, Dutch Decoy were both one paced. Yet Macho Time could not be caught, winning by 1 1/2 lengths. Second was Dutch Decoy by 2 lengths and third Cruising.

The 4:30 initially had Kuwait Station lead with Creek Island not far off the pace and Jupiter Road tracking the leaders. Midfield was Edaraat and Zip while One To Go and Double Honour both dwelt. The pace was rather steady. Two furlongs out had Edaraat short for room, being switched and going on well. Zip, Jupiter Road and Double Honour were being pushed along. One furlong to go One To Go was challenging Creek Island for the lead. Kuwait Station was headed. In the final furlong Edaraat took the lead from One To Go who briefly led but Creek Island and Kuwait Station couldn't give any more. First was Edaraat by 1/2 length, second was One To Go by 3 1/4 lengths, third was Creek Island by 1 1/4 lengths.

On a more negative note: I was not able to do a blog from Pontefract on the last day of the Go Racing in Yorkshire summer festival, due to not being allowed in. This was despite the owners having left us badges and the attitude we were met with was pure arrogance. Therefore for the foreseeable future, there will be no blogs from Pontefract.


Saturday 27 July 2019

Thirsk Races

The rainy weather did not disrupt the racing or the positive atmosphere. There was however a double for Richard Fahey in the first and second race. A horse to watch out for is the winner of the fifth race Mondain, who won with ease by 10 lengths. In the selling stakes nothing was sold.

The first race had the punters guessing as due to the majority of the field being unraced. Frankel's Storm took the early lead with Galadriel, Impression and Secret Passion closely following. While Sweet Serenade and Carriesmatic were slow away. In midfield was Diamond Sparkles and Imperial Gloriana. Many were ridden with two furlongs to go, Sweet Serenade and Imperial Gloriana were pushed along. Diamond Sparkles was making headway yet Frankel's Storm was still leading. One furlong out had Imperial Gloriana take the lead this was only short lived  as Diamond Sparkles in the closing stages challenged and went on to lead. Inside the final furlong Sun Crystal, Secret Passion and Galadriel were outpaced and weakened. Frankel's Storm stayed on well but Imperial Gloriana had no more to give. The winner was Diamond Sparkles by 3/4 length, second Frankel's Storm by a head and third Imperial Gloriana by 4 lengths.

The 3:55 had Troubadour dictating the pace, the rest of the field stacking up behind him. The chasers being No Mercy, Bushtucker Trial and Aberama Gold. The back markers initially were Rose Of Kildare and Corndavon Lad. Bushtucker Trial, Coastal Mist and Star Of St James were ridden along over two furlongs out but Rose Of Kildare when she got room managed to track the leaders. No Mercy and Aberama Gold needing to be pushed along. Troubadour had no problem leading the race under Paul Mulrennan  which was unquestioned. In the final furlong many including No Mercy and Coastal Mist kept on. The lead established was too far to be caught. The rain had definetly got into the ground causing Aberama Gold and Rose Of Kildare to plod along. The winner Troubador was 1 1/2 lengths clear of second, No Mercy with only had a head to third Coastal Mist.

Next blog will be from Pontefract on Sunday! There additionally should be more racing blogs next week now we've had some rain which should change the going.

Thursday 25 July 2019

Catterick races- go racing in yorkshire

The scorching weather had a surprisingly little impact on the number of non-runners and the horses welfare is a priority of the racecourses. The day saw a double for Ben Curtis and Dani Tudhope helping his attempt to become champion jockey. The selling stakes in the 2:40 saw the winner, Laughter Lounge go for £11,000, Gold Venture and It's Not My Fault were also claimed. Laughter Lounge is certainly one to watch. The fourth race was a claiming stakes but no horses were claimed.

The 4:10 had Merry Banter leading narrowly to Something Lucky. These were followed by Landing Night, Timetodock and Alsvinder, Tomily was squeezed out. All were close together until two furlongs out when a few horses needed to be ridden such as Alsvinder, Timetodock and the leader Merry Banter. Tomily at one furlong out managed to be switched to find room and quickly made headway. Inside the final furlong Tomily went on to lead taking over from Alsvinder. The rest of the field had nothing to give especially Something Lucky, Landing Night and Hawaam. The winner Tomily won by 1 1/2 lengths, second Alsvinder by 2 1/2 lengths and third Timetodock by 1 1/2 lengths.

The final, an apprentice race, saw a great ride by Zak Wheatley despite a naughty horse who even reared in the stalls, he managed to ride the winner. Airplane took the lead, tracked by Mr Carbonator, Midnight Warrior and Lafilia prominent. Metronomic, Corton Lad and Calliope were all midfield and Fillydelphia was held up in the rear. At the three furlongs out horses such as Osborne Lady and Calliope were ridden along. Yet the rest of the field were still sat nicely behind Airplane. Two furlongs out had Metronomic pushed along to give chase, regardless of the fact that he was boxed numerous times. Lafilia, Fillydelphia, Mr Carbonator and Corton Lad were ridden along. In the final furlong Airplane lost its lead to Metronomic but Fillydelphia, Corton Lad and Lafilia all stayed on. First was Metronomic by a neck, second was Lafilia by a head, third was Fillydelphia by 1/2 length. This win was a very patient ride from the 7lb claimer.

There will be another blog from a course in Yorkshire soon.

Monday 15 July 2019

Hamilton Races

The family fun evening was filled with activities for the whole family including a dress up competition, face paint and music after from Little Mix Magic and Scarlett Lee. The evening had a few surprises, a double for trainer Stef Keniry and another double for 5lb claimer Harrison Shaw. A horse to watch out for was the winner of the last, Rosemary who won handsomely.

The first race on the card had a small field but it was competitive. Rose Bandit was dictating the pace on the standside rail. However she was closely followed by Asmund and Never In Red. The field was closely bunched. The lead was never questioned until one furlong out when Asmund tried to challenge Rose Bandit. At this stage Star's Daughter had already trailed off. Both Spygate and Never In Red attempted to rally to challenge the front runners, although this was unsuccessful. In the final furlong Rose Bandit continued to extend her lead going on to win by 1 length, the one paced Asmund was second by a length.

In the 7:05 Winged Spur led the pack in usual Jason Hart style riding. She was narrowly followed by Matewan and Dark Lochnagar. Others such as Euro Implosion, Tor, Moll Davis and Top Notch Tonto were all in touch while Carbon Dating missed the break. The pace was controlled by Winged Spur. The placings only began to change at three furlongs out, Isabella Brant, Tor, Top Notch Tonto and Carbon Dating were pushed. At two furlongs out the leader changed to Matewan, followed closely by Regal Mirage and Euro Implosion. One furlong out had Dark Lochnagar take the lead, with the rallying Euro Implosion and Euro Implosion. Moll Davies did not have a clear run and after switching became a contender in the running. Many of the field were outpaced including Tor, Sioux Frontier and Regal Mirage. In the closing stages Moll Davies went on to win well by a neck to Dark Lochnagar. These two were clear of the rest of the field by 3 1/2 lengths. Euro Implosion finished third and simply could not reach the first pair past the post, fourth was the well finishing Carbon Dating.

Next update will be from somewhere in the go racing in Yorkshire week!

Sunday 14 July 2019

York races

The glorious sunshine had the ground firm, despite many believing that the ground would be softer due to predicted rain. In form trainer Declan Carroll had another winner at York in the first race with Spartan Fighter, only adding to his tally for this year. Also apprentice jockey Cian Macredmond rode a winner on the day at a 22/1 shot, showing the ability he has to bring the best out of the horses. I tipped Archie Perkins a few weeks ago to win on firmer ground. This prediction came true in the fourth race on the card. Additionally Danny Tudhope had a double on the day, dominating the first two races.

The second race had Oasis Dream running alone on the far rail setting the pace whilst on the other side the leader was Final Rock. He was tracked by Anythingtoday whilst Speed Company, Dance King and Maifalki were held up. These positions did not change until three furlongs out where Oasis Dream needed to be pushed along, weakening as the rest of the field moved forward. At two furlongs out the lead was close between Anythingtoday and Oasis Fantasy being chased by Speed Company. The backmarker Maifalki was making headway. With one furlong to go the leader was clearly Anythingtoday while the rest of the field were strongly being ridden including Speed Company, Maifalki and Final Rock. But Oasis Fantasy was headed easily. Anythingtoday went well clear and gamely went on, the others not being able to catch him despite keeping on. First was Anythingtoday by 1 1/4 lengths, second Speed Company by a short head and third Maifalki by 4 1/2 lengths.

The main race of the day was the William Hill Summer Stakes at 3:15. Until the final couple of furlongs it was difficult to see who was leading as many were the same paced. The leading pack included Royal Intervention, Shades Of Blue, Glass Slippers, Foxtrot Lady and Archer's Dream. A few were unsteady at the start and never really got involved in the race. With two furlongs to go some were being pushed along including Archer's Dream and Foxtrot Lady. But others made headway like Fairy Falcon (who managed to challenge the leaders at this stage), Queen Of Desire, Stay Classy and Red Balloons. The lead was taken by Royal Intervention who was hassled by Shades Of Blue. This battle only further developed into the closing stages when it became neck and neck, both vying for the win. The rest of the horses simply couldn't keep up, regardless of  Red Balloons, Glass Slippers, Stay Classy and Queen of Desire staying on well. Royal Intervention and Shades Of Blue were clear of the rest of the field. Royal intervention just found a little bit more than Shades Of Blue winning by a neck. This pair were 3 3/4 lengths clear of the next horse.  Third place by 1 1/2 was Red Balloons, who in the early stages had a lot of cover. Fourth was Glass Slippers.

Tuesday 9 July 2019

Interview with Cian MacRedmond

Cian MacRedmond is a 7lb claimer for Declan Carroll. He began his career in Willie McCreery's yard, moving to England last year. Cian against all odds had a winner on his first ever ride at the Curragh on Sweetest Taboo for his boss at the time. Cian's father is a vet in Ireland and he has involved Cian in racing his entire life.  His love for racing spiralled from here as he got hooked becoming more immersed in the industry. Cian's biggest influence on his career has been his father, his dad clearly deserves some credit.

Like many apprentices he has the dream of claiming the champion apprentice title but he is well aware of the challenges within this competition. In 10 years it would still be his dream to be riding with a professional license, hopefully having more winners.

Cian receives some hate online through social media, this is often personal. Despite these perhaps hurtful words, Cian refuses to reply. So the keyboard warriors are clearly wasting their time and shouldn't bother making the comments to him or any other jockey.

If he wasn't a jockey he would be a farmer. But this career change is clearly not on the cards for him any time soon as he is doing so well. This year he already has a 13% strike rate and a winner at York. He too is clearly one of Declan Carroll's good apprentice jockey finds.

Cian's winner at York on Music Seeker 



Saturday 6 July 2019

Beverley races

The lovely 70s themed evening saw some horses being withdrawn. The results of the races had three favourites winning on the day. Whilst top jockey Danny Tudhope had a double helping him in the title race. The first race the selling stakes had two horses sold, the winner Muatadel and Ajrar.

The 6:40 had the lead Living In The Past for one furlong before this was passed on to Too Shy Shy. These were chased and tracked by Dublin Rocker, Aryaaf, Mighty Spirit. Midfield was Pentewan and Wafrah. The horses went off at a quick pace but Living In The Past led again over two furlongs out taking over from Too Shy Shy. Other horse such as Dearly Beloved, Aryaaf and Pentewan were being pushed along. At one furlong Mighty Spirit challenged Living In The Past whilst Pentewan made headway. In the final furlong Living In The Past kept extending the lead while the rest of the field were either one paced or struggling. First was Living In The Past by 1 1/2 lengths, second Mighty Spirit by 4 1/2 lengths and third Pentewan.

The fourth race saw a long stewards enquiry, however the results were unchanged. Vivacious Spirit set the pace whilst Ollivander chased and Anna Bunina and Hector's Here were all in touch. With Flying Dragon and Hunterwali held up. Vivacious Spirit was 4 lengths clear at four furlongs out, this lead reduced at two furlongs out. At the same time much of the field was moving closer to the leader including Hunterwali and Anna Bunina who managed to give chase. At one furlong out Ollivander had a brief narrow lead before Anna Bunina took this lead. Hector's Here chased. Flying Dragon was one paced and Vivacious Spirit despite its early lead soon dropped away. In the closing stages of the race Anna Bunina and Hectors Here collided which resulted in the stewards enquiry. Ollivander had no more to give. Anna Bunina in the end only managed to narrowly win by a neck to second Hector's Here and third Ollivander by 2 3/4 lengths.

Something to look forward to: an interview with up and coming jockey Cian Macredmond will be available to read mid-next week!


Wednesday 3 July 2019

Interview with Zak Wheatley

Zak Wheatley is an apprentice for Declan Carroll, before this he was in David O'Meara's yard for two and a half years where he gained much experience. Like many his involvement in horse racing stems from ponies. This was an experience Zak and his father shared. Later Zak went to the racing school which kick started his racing career. His future aims are to become a professional jockey and  continue with the success that he has started to build. Either this or as he said jokingly, he'll be in a pub somewhere...

Zak's first winner came earlier this season after consistently being placed. This was a monkey off his back, he described it as an amazing day. Zak has experienced much frustration on the journey to his first win. The win came on 7 year old Mushariff for boss Declan Carroll and happened in tremendous style at Ripon winning by 3 1/4 lengths.

Zak's choice of ride from any horse past or present, would be Frankel for obvious reasons. Frankel definitely would not be a bad choice. When not racing he likes to relax and often does this by playing football.

His future is undoubtedly bright. From all his rides this year he's had 3 winners from 15 rides and clearly will have more to come.

Zak's latest win on Bee Machine 

Saturday 29 June 2019

Doncaster races

The glorious weather had the ground drying out as the day went on but this was not reflected in the runners. There was some surprises especially in the form of Sweet Promise a 25/1 winner. A jockey to mention is the Australian, Kerrin McEvoy, who seems to be doing consistently well since arriving in Britain, his 23% strike rate shows this. Another hot jockey is Jason Hart who followed up his recent Curragh win with a win at Doncaster yesterday.

The second race had the heavily backed Sushi Power go to favourite and lead in the early stages. Sushi Power, Divine Covey and Go Well Spicy tracked him for the first furlong before Go Well Spicy took the lead. Sabaaya was not far off the pace but Capp never got into the running. Go Well Spicy was allowed to dictate for the majority of the race. At two furlongs out headway was made by Divine Covey, Sabaaya. Sushi Power due to her running for the first time was very green and weakened over two furlongs out. At one furlong out Go Well Spicy was ridden along being chased by Devine Covey and Sabbaya. In the final furlong Divine Covey was running short of room and kept on at the same pace as did Sabaaya. Go Well Spicy was uncatchable eventually going well clear of the rest of the field. First was Go Well Spicy by 2 1/4 lengths, second was Divine Covey by 3 1/2 lengths and third Sabaaya by 4 1/2 lengths. The field was well drawn out.

The 3:50 had the field for majority of the race bunched together, the lead was quickly taken up by Fox Leicester, followed by House Of Kings, Ginger Fox and Emirates Knight close up. Archaeology and Global Gift were held up. At three furlongs out Global Gift, Ginger Fox, House Of Kings moved up the field. Fox Leicester was being pushed. Two furlongs out Emirates Knight and House Of Kings were pushed to continue. One furlong out had Ginger Fox take the lead narrowly over Global Gift. The final furlong had the lead change to Global Gift who went well clear yet Ginger Fox had no more to give unlike the one paced Emirates Knight and House Of Kings. Archaeology quickly fell out of contention. Global Gift went on to win by 1 1/2 lengths, second Ginger Fox by 2 1/2 lengths, third Emirates Knight by a neck.

Again I'm unsure when my next blog will be, have a look at my twitter to find out.


Wednesday 26 June 2019

Beverley Races

The horrible rainy weather had the going change twice and some horses withdrawn. It was certainly a day for the favourites or near favourites. Additionally well done to Izzy Clifton who had her first winner in the apprentice race.

In the first race, Walk In Marrakesh was in the lead for the majority of the race, Breguet Man, Frasard and Impression were all tracking the winner. Cersei Lannister was slowly away and stood in the gates but eventually managed to catch up with the rest of the field. Road Rage made some headway three furlongs out. But it was clear even from here that Walk In Marrakesh would be difficult to beat. Two furlongs out Frasard moved up the field as did Breguet Man. Impression and Road Rage were pushed along. The final furlong saw Impression and Breguet Man ridden along. Walk In Marrakesh was given an extra push whilst Frasard was switched to have more room. Walk In Marrakesh in the final furlong kept getting stronger, Frasard chased the winner entering the final furlong but couldn't catch him. Breguet Man and Impression kept on at the same pace. First was Walk In Marrakesh by 1 1/4 lengths, second Frasard by 6 lengths and third Breguet Man by 4 1/2 lengths. The result shows how well Walk In Marakesh won.

The 3:30 had a few close up with the leader Bit Of A Quirke, the chasers in the field included Global  Art, Gendarme and Cross Step. Archie Perkins got boxed from early on. Winged Spur was never really involved in the race. Regal Mirage who had been held up moved up in the running three furlongs out. At two furlongs out Global Art was struggling whereas Bit Of A Quirke merely extending his lead. Archie Perkins, Regal Mirage and Moxy Mares all tried to catch Bit Of A Quirke. At the one furlong marker Global Art was ridden strongly, Archie Perkins eventually got a clear run. In the closing stages Bit Of A Quirke was not going to be caught even Regal Mirage weakened making no impression. Archie Perkins and Moxy Mares also kept on. The winner was never in doubt, Bit Of A Quirke won by 2 3/4 lengths, second was Regal Mirage by 2 3/4 lengths and third Archie Perkins. One to watch is the consistent Archie Perkins, who seems to frequently run well on any ground. However I think he is better on firmer ground.

The next blog update will be from Doncaster on Friday.


Monday 24 June 2019

Haydock races

The glorious sunshine had the ground running faster than at the time of declaration and led to a few non-runners. It again, was not a day for the favourites as only three won but there were no big outsiders.

The second race had Lydiate Lady quick away and setting the fast pace, tracked by Boundary Lane and the prominent Bellevarde with the wide running Quench Dolly. Seen The Lyte missed the break and was slowly away but managed to recover half way through the race. At two furlongs out Peggie Sue and Bellevarde were pushed along, Lydiate Lady had her lead decreased as Seen The Lyte and Boundary Lane made headway. With one furlong out Boundary Lane challenged alongside Quench Dolly, Bellevarde and Peggie Sue lost their placings. In the final furlong Seen The Lyte was shaken up and challenged Boundary Lane in the closing stages resulting in a photo finish whilst Quench Dolly merely kept on and Lydiate Lady weakened. First was Seen The Lyte by a short head to second Boundary Lane, 1 length to third Quench Dolly by 1 1/4 lengths.

In the 7:30 Subjectivist took an early lead before We Owen A Dragon took over. Valdermoro, Mystery Power and Subjectivist were not far off the pace. Must Dream and Loretta Lass were never really in contention, missing the break and being slowly away. At three furlongs out Mystery Power and Valdermoro fought for third place whilst We Owen A Dragon was still leading. At two furlongs out Subjectivist took over the lead. Mystery Power ran very green but began to challenge. Valdermoro who was pushed along as We Owen A Dragon weakened. With one furlong out Mystery Power led, Subjectivist was ridden along. Valdermoro was denied a clear run, when Thunder King was given a reminder with little effect. In the final furlong Mystery Power ran on but Subjectivist couldn't match the pace of the winner and Valdermoro kept on. The winner Mystery Power couldn't be caught, second was Subjectivist by 1 length and third Valdermoro by 3/4 lengths.

Additionally at Ascot it has been a week of upsets and some surprises, including Dettori's four timer enabling him to claim the Royal Ascot riders crown. Hayley Turner became the first female jockey to ride a winner at royal Ascot winner in 32 years and the shock of Danny Tudhope having numerous winners.

Next update will be from Tuesdays racing at Beverley.

Wednesday 19 June 2019

Thirsk Races

The soft ground was unchanged by the delightful sunny weather. There was only three favourites that were winners. One of these winners was Bee Machine for trainer Declan Carroll with one of his apprentice's Zak Wheatley. The 7lb claimer will certainly making waves within the industry. Another trainer to mention is Phillip Makin, he seems to have a consistent team of horses.

The 3:20 saw a jockey change as did many of the other races due to Kevin Stott being injured. Henley led with Arcavallo and Gin In The Inn tracking the leaders. In Midfield there was Royal Prospect, Came From The Dark and Russian Realm was held up. At two furlongs out the positions began to change as Royal Prospect was racing keenly, Came From The Dark made smooth headway whilst Sheepscar Lad, Pennsylvania Dutch and Lucky Lucky Man were driven out. Henley kept the pace up until one furlong out when Gin In The Inn took over the lead. Royal Prospect began to give chase as Russian Realm and Sheepscar Lad began to be ridden along. In the final furlong Gin In The Inn was headed by Came From The Dark and Royal Prospect who battled it out in the front of the field. Sheepscar Lad just kept on as was did Russia Realm with the rest of the field weakening. Royal Prospect only just headed Came From The Dark by a neck and 3rd was Gin In The Inn by 1 3/4 lengths.

The sixth race had many vying for the lead but Alfa McGuire ended up setting the pace with Rashdan, Follow Intello, Royal Cosmic and Staturio all sat nice just behind. Dragons Voice however was slowly into stride quickly becoming the back marker. Alfa McGuire was allowed to dictate most of the race until three furlongs out when Rashdan, Follow Intello and Royal Cosmic were ridden along. But Ingleby Hollow, Dragons Voice and Buckland Boy all began to get involved in the race. With two furlongs to go Dragons Voice, Ingleby Hollow and Statuario made headway. At one furlong out the lead changed to Statuario briefly before going to Buckland Boy who just swiftly extended his lead and went on to win, the other horses just not able to catch him. 1st was Buckland Boy by 1 1/4 lengths, 2nd was Dragons Voice by 1/2 lengths, 3rd Ingleby Hollow by 4 lengths. The first three horses were well clear of the rest of the field.

Follow me on twitter to find out when and where my next blog is going to be from.




Sunday 16 June 2019

Interview with Karen McLintock

I was fortunate enough to bump into Karen McLintock at York, to discover the hard work and the dedication she has with her yard of 20 horses.

Karen has been involved in racing from a young age, having ponies and being involved in a pony club. This, like many people involved with the industry, started the racing bug. Leaving school she was involved in eventing, which progressed into her getting a horse which her partner Don Eddy convinced her take jumping. Call Equiname won first time out on Karen's local track, Musselburgh. The grey gelding was later sold to Paul Nicholls which enabled her to buy the land that she trains on now just outside Newcastle. She took over the training license from her partner Don Eddy in 2005.

Karen has had her sights set firmly on the Northumberland Plate for many years, if she had kept Call Equiname, she believes this is where he would have gone. This year she hopes to have a chance with Dubawi Fifty in the Northumberland Plate. Dubwai Fifty who has great form, second at Ascot last year, unfortunately picked up an injury and couldn't race. The tough race however is asking a lot from the horse first time back this season, but I wish her the best of luck.

Karen has a few horses to watch out for; Dubawi Fifty and others such as Weather Front who won 6 races last year and was placed numerous times who is returning from injury hopefully later this year. Additionally Karen has the filly Everkyllachy who is rising star with consistent form.

Thanks again to Karen for letting me have an interview. Hopefully there will be more interviews with various jockeys and trainers in coming weeks.

York races

Friday's meeting at York was dry and cloudy with very few favourites and some big outsiders winning including 25/1 Auxiliary and 22/1 Amnaa. There was also a double for trainer Declan Carroll (Music Seeker 2:20, Shawaamekh 3:30), which gives him a 38% strike rate. Definitely a trainer to watch.

The 2:20 saw Declan Carroll have the first winner of his double and highlighted his skills in finding top apprentice jockeys. The race had Beverley Bullet and Archie Perkins soon competing for the lead before Beverley Bullet took the pace maker position on. They were tracked by Addis Ababa, Ghalib, Sputnik Planum and Empress Ali. Delph Cresent and Music Seeker were held up towards the rear but little changed in positions in the field until 4 furlongs out when Pioneering, Top Notch Tonto and Sputnik began to be driven. Three furlongs out saw steady headway be made by Music Seeker, Addis Ababa, Mikmak and Archie Perkins who were clear of the field. Beverley Bullet at two furlongs out was being pushed along and was being challenged by Addis Ababa. Music Seeker, Mikamak and Archie Perkins. At the one furlong marker there was a battle between Music Seeker and Addis Ababa, they went well clear of the rest of the field. Music Seeker kept gaining momentum and went on to win by 1 length, second was Addis Ababa by 2 lengths, third was Archie Perkins who kept on in the final furlong at the same pace, fourth was Beverley Bullet. The winner was ridden by Cian MacRedmond, a 7lb claimer who keeps the winners coming, this being his 8th winner in total.

The fifth race was a listed race, in which there were only five horses. Throughout the race Wadilsafa and Happy Power were the leading pair. They were chased by Oh This Is Us. Sir Dancealot, Raakib and Alhawa were held up in the rear. These positions did not change until three furlongs out when Wadilsafa quickened the pace, Happy Power responded continuing to be close up. Some headway was made by Sir Dancealot and Oh This Is Us. Happy Power headed Wadilsafa at two furlongs out but Oh This Is Us and Sir Dancealot were both soon pushed along. Raakib Alhawa was never really in contention. In the final furlong Happy Power merely extended the lead to the rest of the one paced field. Happy Power was first by 1 1/4 length, second was Wadilsafa by 2 3/4, third was Oh This Is Us by 3/4 length.

Next blog up date will be Tuesday from Thirsk.


Wednesday 12 June 2019

Carlisle racecourse

The evening meeting was reasonably well attended with dry and sunny spells. The first two races were taken by Karl Burke who's horses seem to be flying. An other notable trainer is Tim Easterby who had an across the card four timer with Amadeus Grey and Rux Ruxx at Carlisle and Dew Pond and Gullane One at Thirsk. Additionally there needs to be a mention of jockey Phil Dennis, who undoubtedly is a hot jockey at the moment, anything he is riding must be considered as was shown yesterday with the win in the 6:30 race. It however was not a day for the favourites, only one won.

The first race saw the only favourite of the evening win. Prissy Missy was the leader for much of the way with the rest of the field chasing. However, due to the young age of many of the horses they either ran green or misbehaved like Good Night Mr Tom, Pearl Stream and Heavens Open. There was movement up the field by Wafrah, Ventura Flame and Classy Moon at two furlong marker but Prissy Missy kept her lead. At one furlong out Ventura Flame led for a short period of time before Classy Moon took over, they were still being closely followed by Good Night Mr Tom and Heavens Open. Prissy Missy soon weakened. Many of the field struggled to run straight especially within the closing stages. But Classy Moon went well clear and kept on gamely winning by 2 1/4 lengths, second Ventura Flame by 1/2 length and third Good Night Mr Tom by 3 1/2 lengths.

The 7:30 saw Harvey Dent take the lead early on, with Ramesses, Amadeus Grey and Beautiful Gesture chasing the leader. Harvey Dent was allowed to take control for the majority of the race only to be challenged in the final two furlongs when Reggae Runner, Archaeology and Ramesses were being driven along. Two furlongs out also saw Sesame struggling to keep on. With one furlong to go Amadeus Grey started to lead, but the rest of the horses gave chase. Despite this Amadeus Grey was extending his lead, who could not be beaten by the rallying Harvey Dent. The big hill seemed to cause problems for many including Reggae Runner, Archaeology and Ramesses who all weakened in the closing stages. Amadeus Grey went on to win by 1 length, Harvey Dent second by 1 3/4 lengths and third Reggae Runner by 1 3/4.

On another note, I have recently seen hate directed towards jockeys and trainers from keyboard warriors popping up on twitter. There are many expletive filled and generally nasty comments for example one trainer being told they should end up on a stretcher soon. I just don't understand why and how people think it's acceptable to type something they would never say to a trainers/jockeys face. Often luck has just been against them and if a mistake has been made they probably already know and don't need vile and threatening reminders. This clearly needs to change!

Next update will be on York on Friday, keep up to date by following my twitter!

Monday 1 April 2019

Day 2 Lincoln (Family fun day)- Sunday 31st March 2019

The ground had changed so much since declaring runners which resulted in 24 horses being non-runners but this did not stop Silvestre De Sousa having a treble on the day. The change in weather was also beneficial as it was Wild West Family Fun with fairground rides, glitter face paint and outdoor fun. Remarkably, unlike day one, there was some huge outsiders making it difficult to predict which horses would win. 

The second race had Fox Champion leading the race with Cool Exhibit, Guiding Spirit and Franz Kafta not far behind. Fox Champion was ridden along, with two furlongs to go Franz Kafka made headway alongside Kodi King and Country. The final stages were messy with a few being squashed. This did not effect Fox Champion as he went on to win by 1/2 a length with Franz Kafka second and Cool Exhibit 4 lengths behind as he only managed to maintain the same pace. 

The 4:20 had Falmouth Light leading from early on with a few horses chasing like Grandee, Indomeneo, Shareeff Star and Bacacarat. Yet Stonific and Employer were held up in the rear but with two furlongs to go they both started making head way alongside Hulcote. Shareef Star had to be pushed early on. At three furlongs out Falmouth Light lost the lead and began to weaken, the lead was taken on by Grandee with Employer, Stonific and Cote D'Azur soon tracking the leaders. Although Stonific was switched one furlong out and ridden along battling with Employer for the lead, Employer had no more to give keeping on at the same pace. Hulcote also was badly hampered but once having a clear run she stayed on well. First was Stonific by 1 length, second was Employer by 1 1/4 lengths, third was Hulcote by a neck. 

The star of the day for me came in the sixth race with Good Birthday going smoothly throughout the race, definitely one to watch for the future. 

Lincoln meeting Day 1- Saturday 30th March 2019

The surprisingly gorgeous weather resulted in a wonderful day at the races for the start of the season. Four of the winners were favourites and there were some very close finishes but also some easy wins like Auxerre in the 3:35. Unfortunately there was a faller in the Brocklesby, Anna Fallow, thoughts are with all the connections.

The third race had Hells Babe leading the race tracked by Gabrial, Red Starlight and Sharja Bridge. Circus Couture was held up but in touch with the rest of the field. Headway was made three furlongs out by Sharja Bridge with Circus Couture who was switched right. The leader Hells Babe only was questioned two furlongs out by Red Starlight as she began to lead but was quickly joined by Sharja Bridge who lay down a challenge. At the same time Gabrial was squashed and had to be switched, eventually managing to get a clear run alongside Remarkable. However Sharja Bridge kept on stronger than Red Starlight and managed to beat Red Starlight by 2 lengths. Gabrial kept on for third in the final furlong by 3 3/4 lengths with the rest of the field not too far behind.

The 3:35 the Unibet Lincoln had three non-runners due to a change in the going. The leader was Auxerre with Silver Quartz and Masham Star close up. The chasers were Raydiance, Humbert and Saltonstall. But due to the size of the field many horses ended being hampered in their running, switching for more room which included Beringer and Breden. When other horses were struggling Auxerre went well clear from early on avoiding getting boxed or stopped. In the final furlong more horses began to challenge including Kynren, Beringer, Ripp Org and Breden. Auxerre was chased by Kynren who towards the end did not have enough strength to challenge. Auxerre kept on unquestionably winning by 2 1/4 lengths. Second was Kynren and a dead heat for third between Beringer and Breden who were clear of fifth by a length. Perhaps if Beringer and Breden had clearer runs then maybe they would have been even closer. Auxerre undoubtably has a bright racing future due to his form and ease of win. Definitely one to watch this season.

The Lincoln Meeting

 As the start of the flat season looms ahead, we have a look into the history of the Lincoln meeting.  The meeting initially started at Linc...